SIA Jun-Jul 2017

Vol. 16 Issue 5 ~ June - July 2017

AUDIO • VISUAL • CONTROL • COLLABORATION • UNIFIED COMMS MCI (P) 039/04/2017 PPS 1669/08/2013 (022992)

Harsha International Public School Sports A Classy Facility

• SPECIAL FEATURE: Audio-Visual Systems In Hospitality Environment • INTERVIEW: Aurora India - Switching In To Catalyze Growth Formula • INTERVIEW: B-Tech - Celebrating 45 Years Of Mounting Excellence

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CONTENTS 79

Vol. 16 Issue 5 ~ June – July 2017

58 70

04 FIRST WORDS 06 NEWS 43 SOLUTIONS UPDATE EXHIBITION REVIEW 55 InfoComm China Boasts Bigger Lineup, New Solutions 58 IFC: Inaugural FutureCitizen Launched To Open Discussions In AV Industry TECH TALK 60 Video: Network and Bandwidth Considerations SPECIAL FEATURE 62 Audio-Visual Systems In Hospitality Environment

INTERVIEW 65 Mindstec Continues With Its Momentum 66 RTI: Sustainable Growth With An Eye On Commercial Sector 68 Aurora India: Switching In To Catalyze Growth Formula 70 B-Tech: Celebrating 45 Years of Mounting Excellence EXHIBITION PREVIEW 72 Asia’s Systems Integration Takes Flight INSTALLATIONS 74 INDIA: Harsha International Public School - An Auditorium Of A ‘Class’ 78 SINGAPORE: Mediacorp Selects Tripleplay To Deliver IPTV Streaming For Its New Campus

79 INDIA: Martin Audio O-Line Installed In Thane Catholic Church 80 PHILIPPINES: Living Word Christian Churches of Cebu International Inc’s New Sanctuary Offers Clear Audible Sound VOICE BOX 82 ESCO – The AVidity Is Calling AudioVisually 84 The Days Of AV And Home Automation As We Know It Are Numbered!

86 ON OUR WEB

04

FIRST WORDS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

EDITOR, INDIA AND ME Ram Bhavanashi ram@spinworkz.com

ADMIN & CIRCULATION Julie Tan admin@spinworkz.com

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION WRITER Jimmy Chin Natalie Chew jimmy@spinworkz.com natalie@spinworkz.com

MEDIA REP IN NORTH AMERICA Broadcast Media International Michael Mitchell Tel: +1 631 673 0072 mjmitchell@broadcast-media.tv

PUBLISHED BY PRINTED BY Spinworkz Pte Ltd Stamford Press Pte Ltd 51 Bukit Batok Crescent #06-10 Unity Centre, Singapore 658077 Tel: (65) 6316 2716 Fax: (65) 63162715 www.spinworkz.com Disclaimer Systems Integration Asia is published 6 times a year. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine is to be reproduced, whether mechanical or electronic without the prior written consent of the publisher. Views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor or the publisher. Unsolicited contributions are welcome but the editor reserves the discretion to use them. Whilst every care is taken to ensure the accuracy and honesty in both editorial and advertising content at press time, the publisher will not be liable for any inaccuracies.

Please be informed that products and company names mentioned in this publication may be protected with tradenames, trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Our non inclusion of such symbols is not an indication of us not recognising the copyright but rather to have a common look across our articles. Misuse of tradenames, trademarks or registered trademarks is strictly prohibited. It is the obligation of our readers to check if company names and products are protected with tradenames, trademarks or registered trademarks.

This issue has an unusal number of interviews. Having said that it is a great read as we get to understand where the interviewed companies are heading towards. RTI shares its vision for the future which includes more involvement in the commercial space; B-Tech highlights how a small British company has made it big in the mounting segment; Aurora’s newly minted Director of Aurora India talks about the USA company’s ambition in India and we get a summary report from Mindstec about their involvement in this region the past one and a half years.

We are also happy that we got permission to print a very interesting piece from Bruno Napoli of Krika. Do check out the Voice Box column where Bruno gives us his take on whether “The Days Of AV And Home Automation As We Know It Are Numbered!”. It is a thought provoking piece and Bruno as well as Systems Integration Asia would like those especially involved in the residential space to share their thoughts on the piece. I personally think Bruno is not too far wrong with his observations.

We are also very pleased that we managed to pull off another successful event, bringing SynAudCon’s training to the Philippines. We had a total of 39 paying delegates attending the training by Pat Brown on “The Principles of Sound System Design.” It is especially gratifying when delegates come up to you and share their appreciation as to what we are trying to do for the industry. I have said in the news piece in the pages within this issue on the coverage of this event but I want to highlight it again – without sponsors we will not be able to bring trainings at a more affordable cost. In this respect we thank Biamp for its support. This is the second time that Biamp has supported our initiative and their objective is to enable as many personnel involved in the industry to upgrade or refresh their knowledge and skills.

I hope more companies will come forward to help the industry especially in South-East Asia to upgrade their knowledge – not about their products but rather generic knowledge that will help them do a better job. As new talents and new technologies enter the industry, this will indeed be valuable for all.

Enjoy the read.

Thomas Richard Prakasam Publisher/ Editorial Director thomas@spinworkz.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Datumstruct Partners With Barco To Raise Comfort And Efficiency In Control Rooms SINGAPORE: Barco is delighted to see its Operator workspace solution (OpSpace) making inroads in control rooms around the world. Under the new agreement, Datumstruct will include Barco’s OpSpace in their control centre design philosophy and product portfolio providing users with a healthier and more efficient environment to handle stressful operations.

Datumstruct is one of Asia Pacific region leading turnkey solutions provider with experiences in design, manufacturing and implementation of Command & Control Centre Solutions, Data Centre IT Infrastructure Solutions, Office Furniture Solutions and Bio Tech Solutions for various industries and agencies worldwide. Their aptitude spreads to a variety of industry sectors, majoring from Oil & Gas, Aviation, Security, Government, Transportation, Telecommunication, Energy and more. Datumstruct’s Control Centre Design & Build has grown leaps and bounds and matured into providing a totality in control centre design philosophy in the region.

Barco’s OpSpace - a patent pending technology - is the first personal workspace that creates a single workstation – consisting of a number of displays on the operator’s desk – for viewing, monitoring and interacting with multiple clients that reside on multiple networks with different security clearances or liability concerns. All relevant information can be consulted and manipulated within a single pixel space, with just one mouse and keyboard. This creates a very flexible approach to the operator’s job − allowing better situational overview, and therefore better decision-making

“Our focus has been on Holistic Control Center & Data Center Solutions where we incorporate our design with HFE analysis coupled with ergonomic considerations say for critical environment. We provide task & workload analysis ensuring the user a healthier and more efficient environment to handle stressful operations. When we discovered Barco’s OpSpace we were really impressed as it is the first operator workspace solution that is tailored to the operator and provides an intuitive user interface, one pixel space integrating all information, secure access to any application and much more," said Ken Low, Managing Director of Datumstruct (CFS) Pte Ltd. “Barco developed OpSpace to make life easier for control room operators and help them raise their productivity. The enthusiastic feedback of OpSpace proves that OpSpace meets a real market need,” comments Mark Bultinck, VP APAC at Barco. “We are excited about this new partnership as it enables Barco to better service the market with a new platform that is designed to streamline the busy workday of control room operators, allowing them to work in a more focused, comfortable and intuitive way.” www.barco.com www.datumstruct.com

Amer Alzaiem Appointed As General Manager Of Tripleplay Middle East DUBAI: Leading developer of Digital Signage, IPTV and Video Streaming solutions, Tripleplay has appointed Amer Alzaiem to lead its Middle Eastern business from its office in Dubai, UAE. With over 10 years’ experience in the IPTV and Digital Signage sector, Amer has a wealth of knowledge of the industry, having previously been Regional Sales Manager at Exterity and Triax.

Amer explained, “Tripleplay has a great single platform solution, which is simple to use, yet incredibly effective. With more than 15 years’ experience, we continue to lead the way with software development and cutting edge IP Video and Digital Signage technology.

“I am very excited to be part of the Tripleplay team and working with a next generation platform that is very much the future and the present of the AV industry.”

Amer Alzaiem

Steve Rickless, CEO at Tripleplay explained, “We are pleased to have Amer on board at Tripleplay and look forward to using his knowledge of the region and his industry expertise to grow our business in the Middle East.” www.tripleplay.tv

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

AgilityGrid Launches Partnership With Intransa For Video Surveillance Storage Solutions Across EMEA DUBAI: AgilityGrid, a Dubai-based Value Added Distributor that provides IP CCTV security solutions for businesses and government bodies across the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Australia, has confirmed that it has signed an agreement with Intransa, an award-winning platform Costa Boukouvalas, CEO, AgilityGrid delivering solutions for video surveillance, to represent them in Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). With this alliance, AgilityGrid will incorporate the complete range of Intransa’s award-winning servers and storage platforms into their customized security solutions for their partners and their customers across the region.

Costa Boukouvalas, CEO, AgilityGrid said, “We are very pleased to represent Instransa in the EMEA region. In keeping with our business ethos, we always want to stay with technology that not only innovates but also delivers the solutions that a dynamic region like the EMEA demands.

Intransa’s award-winning products are designed to deliver simplicity, reliability and total cost savings.”

Intransa has a long history of innovation and technology leadership in the security industry and the founders of iSCSi protocol and the concept of the IPSAN for IP video surveillance. With this alliance with AgilityGrid, Intransa will spearhead its growth and expansion in the EMEA region offering its servers, storage and appliance platforms based on its award-winning technology to security customers across the region.

“Video surveillance continues to grow as security dominates across the region and storage (and easy access) is a key component of deployment,” Boukouvalas continued. “We aim to highlight how leveraging the right storage and server technology will benefit not only the businesses in the key vertical sectors but also for government initiatives in this sector.”

A wide range of industry sectors depend on CCTV security solutions, including hospitality, retail, critical infrastructure, law enforcement, health, education, aviation, banking and transportation. www.agilitygrid.com

Ashly Amplification At The New Legend Palace Hotel MACAU: The Legend Palace Hotel is a new five-star hotel in China’s autonomous Macau, among the world’s wealthiest and most densely populated cities. The Legend Palace features over two hundred posh rooms, six diverse restaurants, a conference center, health & spa facilities, myriad recreational activities (including, of course, gambling!) and breathtaking views of Macau’s famous Pearl River. The sound system that supports the Legend Palace is worthy of so much luxury and relies, heart and soul, on 76 Ashly amplifiers with 504 separate channels powering 700 ceiling loudspeakers.

DC Systems Digital Communications Limited designed the sophisticated system to the exacting standards of the hotel.

Although there are several zones (notably the conference center) where DC Systems provided microphones and usercontrolled auxiliary inputs, the system is largely a high-fidelity music playback system that sets the right atmosphere for the Legend Palace.

“Meeting the high standards of the Legend Palace and yet keeping the project on a reasonable budget was a valueengineering challenge for us,” explained TC Chiu, project manager with DC Systems. “Perfect fidelity was very important; the hotel did not want anything that would sound cheap.

Because so many amplifier channels would be required, we also needed something that would be absolutely reliable. Ashly was a natural choice. Ashly’s products sound great and work reliably right out of the box.”

In total, the 100V distributed ceiling speaker zones feature 46 Ashly ne8250.10 eight-channel network amplifiers, 22 ne8250.10 four-channel 250W network amplifiers. Low impedance loudspeakers are powered by four ne8250 amplifiers, and four nX1.54 four-channel 1,500W multimode amplifiers. The amplifiers power 644 four-inch ceiling loudspeakers, 4 six-inch ceiling loudspeakers, and 62 eight-inch ceiling loudspeakers.

“The Ashly-based system at Legend Palace Hotel is everything the client had hoped for,” Chiu said. “It is stable and reliable, 24/7 services and the sound quality is excellent.” www.ashly.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Aurora Multimedia Enters India, Ropes In Nataraju As Director INDIA: American multimedia and control automation solutions provider Aurora Multimedia is seeking expansion of its operations across the Asia Pacific region. The New Jersey, USAheadquartered AV major has not only made two key appointments recently in India and (South) Nataraju Upputuri Korea, but also opened direct presence offices and initiated consolidation measures.

Nataraju Upputuri, a familiar name in Indian audio-visual industry circles, after a brief silence post his previous stint, made a big re-arrival as the head honcho of Aurora Multimedia for its India operations. Taking the reins of the company in India as its Director, Nataraju Upputuri brings to table a rich experience of around 17 years in various profiles of sales and marketing of audio-visual products and solutions- the last being with Crestron Asia, playing a key role in the brand’s growth in India.

“I’m very pleased to be onboard with Aurora Multimedia, and my new endeavour,” said Nataraju. “Aurora is a strong brand and known for its innovative technology and superlative products, particularly in North America and Europe,” he explains. “We would want to bring those strengths and technology expertise to India.”

According to him, the decisive move is part of the company’s ambitious initiative for the Asia Pacific region that is taken to be presenting exciting growth opportunities for Aurora’s solutions. With a view to capitalizing on the opportunities, the company has established similar portfolios across the region, and all the Country Directors – independent of one another – report directly to Aurora’s headquarters in Morganville, New Jersey.

The company’s grand plans for the region comprises setting up of Experience Centers across the region, including India, besides building exclusive service centers and inventories.

Since the office set-up and establishment is already done, the direct operations have already begun, and did some significant business breakthroughs too- building on Nataraju’s strong relationship with local AV market players.

“My first priority is to build our team for both sales and engineering support,” Nataraju explains. “We have some very unique products that are above the market competition; we intend to introduce Indian industry to those solutions that have already made their mark on the international markets,” he elaborates. “These unique and industry leading solutions when experienced in our Experience Centre, would present an exciting opportunity for Indian AV to excel in innovation and design expertise.”

Says Paul Harris, CEO of Aurora Multimedia: “I couldn’t be more excited to have the brand under the leadership of Nataraju in India. Our history of innovation – from the introduction of the industry’s first non-proprietary, Webstandards-based IP control systems and touch panels, to today’s advanced HDBaseT and IPBaseT IP video distribution solutions – has made us a dominant force in the AV industry.

India is perhaps the most fascinating and dynamic country in the world today and this expansion will allow us unique access to this fast growing AV market in India.” he said in a statement.

Founded in 1998, Aurora Multimedia manufactures products in their own facility in Morganville, New Jersey. These products are credited with incorporating state-of-the-art technologies that surpass typical specifications and features.

Aurora Multimedia provides solutions for a variety of global markets, including government, education, security, hospitality, corporate, and house of worship. www.auroramm.com www.aurora-in.com

Robin Sim Joins IHSE ASIA SINGAPORE: IHSE ASIA has welcomed Robin Sim as Regional Pre-Sales Manager as of April 3rd.

With more than 13 years of marketing, business development and sales activities for companies like ABtUS and TÜV SÜD in Singapore Robin is experienced in the field of matrix switches, amplifiers and Pro AV. He is fluent in English, Chinese (Mandarin) and Bahasa Indonesia and has travelled extensively in the APAC region.

Robin will be an excellent asset to IHSE business development and sales activities within the Asian-Pacific region. www.ihse.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Meyer Sound Appoints New Distributor For Korea network, and strengthening relationships with existing dealers, consultants and end users."

Announcement of the new appointment was made at the KOBA Show in Seoul on May 16 by Brian Chow, Meyer Sound sales manager for Japan and Korea.

In a separate agreement, Kinoton Korea, Inc. will continue distribution of Meyer Sound products for the two market verticals of cinema and baseball stadiums. All other markets will be handled through Ingang Audio.

(L-R) Brian Chow, Eric Han, Joo Hong Chang, Helen Meyer, John Meyer and Steve Kim

KOREA: Meyer Sound has appointed Ingang Audio Co., Ltd. of Seoul as its new principal distributor for most verticals in the fast-growing South Korean market. Ingang Audio will assume primary responsibility for building a stronger network of Meyer Sound dealers and system integrators in Korea, and for connecting customers to Meyer Sound through a more direct and transparent relationship.

"Meyer Sound products are well known in the Korean market for their quality and durability," comments Ingang Audio owner Steve Kim. "At Ingang Audio, we will build on this reputation with more promotional activities, expanding our dealer

"Several key people at Ingang Audio have long experience working with Meyer Sound through prior association with a former distributor," notes Meyer Sound's Chow. "They know our technologies and how Meyer Sound can serve their customer base. This experience, combined with the more dynamic structure of Ingang Audio, will make for a smooth transition and for rapid growth in the coming months."

In addition to owner Steve Kim, key principals at Ingang Audio include President Joo Hong Chang and Technical Director Eric Han. www.ingangaudio.com www.meyersound.com

Epson Wins Prestigious Red Dot Award For Moverio BT-300 Smart Glasses GERMANY: Seiko Epson Corporation (TSE: 6724, "Epson") has won the Red Dot Award in the Product Design category (Red Dot Award: Product Design 2017) for its Moverio BT-300 smart glasses with silicon organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays.

Red Dot Design Awards are organized by Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen, a design center. Created in 1955 in Germany, the Red Dot Design Award is recognized around the world as one of the most prestigious awards in the design field. A jury of experts evaluates products announced during the past two years and selects the best designs based on nine criteria, including degree of innovation, functionality, ergonomics, ecological compatibility, and durability.

The Moverio BT-300 features Epson’s own silicon OLED displays. It is compact and lightweight yet delivers amazing brightness, contrast, resolution, and image quality. Images are rendered in realistic color and without a distracting frame around the edges of the display. These features mean that Moverio images and information are displayed seamlessly in

the user’s field of view for a realistic augmented reality (AR) experience.

“We always want our product designs to exceed customer expectations, but the Moverio BT-300 is more streamlined than our previous model. I think the judges recognized that the design achieves comfort and looks natural. We want to continue to make strides toward even better designs in the future,” says Hiroaki Sakai, general manager of the design department in Epson’s Visual Products Operations Division.

An awards ceremony will be held in Essen, Germany on July 3. www.epson.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Australia’s WorshipCentre Christian Church Upgrades with EAW KF Series AUSTRALIA: WorshipCentre Christian Church, located in the Brisbane suburb of Carina, Australia, recently decided to upgrade their technology infrastructure with a new Eastern Acoustic Works sound reinforcement system.

Mitcham-based Production Audio Video Technology (PAVT), who had worked with the church before, designed the new system with Ipswich-based CPC Production Services handling the installation. The goal of the new system was exceptional vocal intelligibility, even coverage of the 1,000 seats while also controlling the energy generated by the full band and concertstyle music offered during services.

PAVT Project Manager David Watson and Sound Designer Ben Clarke, recommended left-right hangs of EAW KF740 line arrays, each made up of six KF740 boxes. Each array was flanked by a QX564 point-source cabinet for side fill while six JF8 loudspeakers provided front fill. Four SB2001 subwoofers – ground stacked two per side, under the lip of the stage – contributed the low end that modern music styles demand.

constant directivity horn. Four Phase Aligned™ 12-in low frequency transducers arranged as vertical and horizontal pairs leverage beneficial interaction based on their spacing to extend pattern control well into the low frequency range. The KF and QX Series work together to provide the audience with a seamless worship experience.

The compact KF740 arrays are loaded with dual 2.5-in voice coil HF compression drivers and dual 8-in Concentric Summation Array (CSA) loaded MF transducers are integrated through a common horn that occupies the entire face of the enclosure offering astounding pattern control. EAW Focusing™ delivered via UX series processors precisely transitions from one system subsection to another while maintaining nearly perfect 90°control. The vertical output was tailored to match the requirements of the space via EAW Resolution™ 2 software.

“The room was wide open with plenty of flat, hard surfaces making it necessary to keep as much of the PA energy away from the walls and ceiling possible,” explains Watson. “EAW’s Resolution modeling software helped tremendously to ensure the system was optimally configured.”

The QX564 loudspeaker, utilized for side fill, has an ultraefficient mid/high compression driver with a 45° (h) x 45° (v)

www.pavt.com.au www.eaw.com

Worship Centre Executive Pastor and CFO Tim Follett adds, “The EAW system provides accurate reproduction of speech and music extremely well. Our members are delighted with the upgrade.”

Panasonic Announces New Entertainment Solution Group SINGAPORE: Panasonic System Solutions Asia Pacific (PSSAP) has announced the integration of its Visual System Business Division and Imaging Network Business Division to form the new Entertainment Solution Group (ESG). The new group serves as a one stop solution center for broadcast, flat panel display and projector products for customers in the region, further strengthening Panasonic’s presence in the media and entertainment industry.

Building on the vast experience as the technology partner for world-renowned sporting events, iconic theme parks and countless broadcast stations, Panasonic continues to demonstrate its versatility in tackling the vibrant media and entertainment industry in Asia Pacific regions by focusing on

segments such as integrated resorts, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), theme parks, stadiums, live events and media.

“We aim to become a truly indispensable technology partner for our customers in this industry and make full use of other technologies from across our portfolio to do so,” said William Chan, Head of Entertainment Solutions Group, PSSAP. “Panasonic Business is more than just the hardware. Our efforts behind-the-scenes have created many memorable experiences for visitors at various types of events and we continue to strive for long term sustainability in the industry.” www.panasonic.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Extron Working With LG Business Solutions To Develop Certified Control Drivers For LG Displays USA: Extron Electronics is working with LG Electronics USA Business Solutions to develop and certify control drivers for LG commercial displays. This new collaboration will result in more certified drivers to facilitate the integration of LG displays with Extron AV control systems.

LG offers a breadth of commercial display products, including its 86-inch Ultra Stretch displays, 4K Ultra HD monitors, outdoor signage systems, and advanced video wall displays.

Extron provides fully tested Ethernet, serial, and IR control drivers for use with Extron MediaLink Plus controllers and IP Link Pro control processors.

“As a world leader in display technology, LG offers integrators an impressively broad selection of innovative commercial displays for a wide array of pro AV applications,” says Art Garcia, Vice President of Business Development for Extron.

“This new project with LG Business Solutions will enable us to provide our dealers with even more certified drivers for integrating AV systems with maximum performance and reliability.”

Clark Brown, Vice President, Digital Signage, LG Electronics USA Business Solutions, says, “Extron’s control platform is a robust control solution that offers flexible configuration capabilities and exceptional ease of operation, complementing LG’s advanced display technologies. Working with Extron gives

LG the opportunity to expand the choices integrators have for controlling and monitoring LG displays.”

The Extron configuration approach simplifies the development of powerful control systems that are cost-effective over the life of the installation. The library of thousands of Extron Certified device drivers enables system designers to easily and quickly deploy powerful control systems that are reliable, sustainable, and profitable. In addition to developing drivers, Extron engineers perform comprehensive interoperability testing on every LG display they receive, ensuring seamless compatibility with Extron video processing and distribution products. www.extron.com

MediaComm Joins SDVoE Alliance customers with the pristine video experience and low latency required in command and control environments and other demanding AV applications,” said Alan Wang, General Manager at MediaComm. “Our customers will also appreciate the interoperability with other pro AV products offered by adherence to the SDVoE Alliance performance specifications.”

INTERNATIONAL: The SDVoE Alliance has announced that Guangzhou MediaComm Technology Co. Ltd. has joined the alliance as an adopting member and will work toward the organization’s goals of standardizing the adoption of Ethernet to transport AV signals in professional AV environments, and creating an ecosystem around SDVoE technology that allows software to define AV applications.

“MediaComm is designing AV-over-IP transmitters and receivers based on SDVoE technology to provide our

“This partnership with MediaComm represents an exciting opening for SDVoE technology into the domestic Chinese market, a market that has been working with AV over IP for a long time, and will now benefit from the high level of performance available using SDVoE,” said Justin Kennington, president of the SDVoE Alliance. “Using 10 Gb Ethernet hardware to move video with flawless quality and zero latency is the beginning, then the SDVoE software platform enables the development of new applications tailored to diverse user needs.” www.mediacomm.com.cn www.sdvoe.org

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Frost & Sullivan Shines Spotlight On ClearOne As Leader In Installed Audio Conferencing Endpoints Market USA: ClearOne [NASDAQ: CLRO], a leading global provider of audio and visual communication solutions, has been recognized by independent analyst firm Frost & Sullivan for capturing a 55.8 percent share of 2015 global installed audio conferencing endpoints revenue, up from 51.5 percent the previous year.

ClearOne has solidified its position as a conferencing and collaboration services provider and as a leader in the installed audio conferencing market. It continues in the forefront of the installed audio conferencing endpoints market as a result of its end-to-end product portfolio, exceptional product quality, longstanding commitment to industry innovation, and strong partner ecosystem, according to Frost & Sullivan's latest analysis —"Growing Collaborative Business Culture Drives Demand for Audio Conferencing Endpoints" — released in December 2016 for baseline year 2015.

Said Frost & Sullivan Digital Transformation Principal Analyst Alan Saayed: “Business users continuously demand higher quality innovative products, yet at affordable values. ClearOne continues to strike a balance between competitive pricing and top-notch technologies, which sets it apart from competitors."

"As collaborative spaces and services proliferate in the workplace, the deployment of cost-effective A/V equipment, such as audio conferencing endpoints, has become pivotal to successful team engagement," ClearOne CEO, President

& Chairman Zee Hakimoglu said. She added that ClearOne continues to enhance its integrated product line and expand its total addressable market. "We do that by incorporating fully scalable and cost-effective audio-video conferencing and collaboration solutions designed to be easily adapted to satisfy the individual needs of every kind of meeting space."

"On the audio side," Saayed noted, "ClearOne introduced their new CONVERGE Pro 2 audio platform and Beamforming Microphone Array 2, competitively priced and highly scalable products that address the demand of each type of meeting space, from emerging huddle rooms to large conference rooms."

"Analysis of the Global Audio Conferencing Endpoints Market" is part of the Conferencing & Collaboration Growth Partnership Service program. Frost & Sullivan’s related studies include: "North American Conferencing Services Markets," "Global Video Conferencing Endpoints and Infrastructure Markets," and "Global Web Conferencing Markets." All studies included in subscriptions provide detailed market opportunities and industry trends, which were evaluated following extensive interviews with market participants. www.frost.com www.clearone.com

Eyevis Visual Solutions Names Zodiac Exclusive Partner For Vietnam GERMANY: According to the latest economic data released, Vietnam’s GDP rose 6.68%, the export earnings increased and the inflation rate remained low. As the economic outlook of other emerging countries remains bleak, Vietnam has become a rising star in the global economy.

As business and investments are growing, the demand for professional AV technology in the country is increasing in all market aspects as well. Here, Zodiac Investment Corporation, founded in 1991, plays a vital role in establishing standards of total solutions for visual communication in the country.

Zodiac is recognised as a pioneer in Vietnamese AV business with more than 20 years of experience in the industry and a sophisticated team of reliable professional consultants for audio-visual technology. From their headquarters in Hanoi and a branch office, Zodiac supplies

products from a reputable selection of marketleading brands into various fields, including control rooms, corporate communications, digital signage, education, medical, broadcast and simulation.

As an exclusive partner, Zodiac will now offer eyevis German-brand high-end visual display solutions to all of these emerging markets in Vietnam. “We are looking to a fruitful partnership for both of our companies in this mutual relationship. Vietnam has a huge potential to become a valuable market in Asia with a huge demand for professional video wall and display solutions in all aspects of people’s lives,” states Jerome Grimminck, International Sales Manager at eyevis. www.eyevis.de www.zodiac.com.vn

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

QSC Announces New Online Training Platform

USA: QSC, LLC, is excited to announce the launch of its new online training platform. This site offers several new features to help improve end user experience and make learning simpler for the company’s award-winning training programs. The launch coincides with the release of Q-SYS Level 1 Training in German and French, adding to the existing English, Spanish and Mandarin versions. The platform also provides training on the QSC TouchMix digital mixers as well as several other of its loudspeaker and amplifier lines. Best of all, all QSC online training content is open to the public and free-of-charge.

New User Profiles and Updated Assessments The new QSC online training platform features new user profiles, allowing customers to easily track progress through courses, submit final designs for certification, access prior certificates and offers an easy way to recertify (when certification expires). The site also includes improved training assessments, which make working through courses even more manageable.

Video Transcript Search The training platform is now equipped with a powerful video transcript search that searches dialogue within each video (upon launch, search includes all Q-SYS Level 1 English videos, with more transcripts from other training videos coming online in the coming weeks). Rather than spending time scrubbing through videos, users can jump directly to a specific topic within a video based on keyword searches.

“QSC is committed to providing world-class product education and thought leadership to our industry in ways that are useful, enjoyable and technologically accessible. For example, Q-SYS training program has become a benchmark for our Systems

business with thousands of people trained and certified last year alone,” said Patrick Heyn, Director of Marketing for QSC Systems. “We are very excited to offer videos in more languages and bring online QSC training to an even broader global audience.”

About Q-SYS Training Q-SYS Level 1 Training presents the fundamentals of the Q-SYS Platform with step-by-step instruction from experienced QSC educators on how to program an entire installation and troubleshoot audio, video and network related issues that might arise. Real-world examples guide the student through basic system design, preset creation, POTS/VoIPbased conferencing, soft codec video applications, third-party integration, control, video camera setup and more. Students can take Level 1 training online or in-person.

QSC also offers Q-SYS Level 2 Training, a two-day, handson course that dives deeper into advanced applicationbased Q-SYS curriculum. Each student works on a full Q-SYS workstation with the latest Q-SYS hardware and software.

About QSC TouchMix Training QSC TouchMix Training is comprised of a series of short videos covering the most commonly used features in the TouchMix including mixer navigation, using TouchMix Wizards, preset channels, mixer scenes, wireless operation, multi-track recording and more. After watching the TouchMix Series videos the user will have the knowledge to use the TouchMix to create a great mix easily and quickly. www.training.qsc.com

Good Things.

Small Packages.

Bigger isn't always better, and for more intimate commercial environments in particular, a subtle approach to the sights and sounds your customers experience can often leave a stronger impression. Yamaha's new ultra-compact VXS1ML speakers provide an attractive interior accent, while filling your space with music that helps shape your overall aesthetic and inspires your clientele. The VXS3S subwoofer, which features Yamaha's own SR-Bass? technology, completes the setup, ensuring your audio will resonate with anyone who enters your bar, cafe, restaurant, or office space. Lightweight, easy to install, and available in black or white enclosures, the musicality of this simple yet stylish sound system will connect with customers for a unique and pleasurable experience they will be eager to repeat.

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Crestron Unveils Brand New Experience Center In Shanghai

CHINA: Crestron, a leading automation and control technology manufacturer, officially unveiled its new Experience Center in Xuhui District, Shanghai on 24 May 2017. Celebrating this milestone moment, Randy Klein, President and CEO of Crestron, Stuart Craig, CEO of Crestron Asia Pacific, Jin Guopei, President of Shanghai Golden Bridge Info Tech Co., Ltd., Zhou Zhe, General Manager of Shanghai Golden Bridge Info Tech Co., Ltd., Moses Yeung, Managing Director of Crestron China and Stevie Ng, General Manager of Crestron China, joined partners and clients from across China at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The decision to establish the Crestron Experience Center in Shanghai forms a crucial part to the company’s investment strategy in the Asia Pacific market. With the establishment of the Experience Center and also Crestron China, the company is well-positioned to better serve local partners and retailers and enabling them to improve performance and expand investment.

“Crestron provides an “Ecosystem” for people’s modern life, and China is becoming one of significant markets of Crestron.

Now Crestron tries to land itself and start from the East of China first, with the cooperation with our partner Golden Bridge, but in the future we intend strongly to expand our

business into the West, opening more Experience Centers, and even setting plants.” said Stuart Craig, CEO of Crestron Asia Pacific during the opening ceremony.

Creston has established branches in India, Hong Kong and Mainland China as part of an ongoing commitment to provide optimized services and support to regional customers. The multi-functional experience centers form an essential element to these branches’ service offering. The newly opened center in Shanghai is fully-equipped with a variety of cutting-edge training facilities and work studios. With just a push of a button, customers can fully experience the latest solutions that allow them to control the entire home or work environment.

From AV, lighting, shading, IT, security, BMS and HVAC, the integrated system brings greater comfort, convenience and security.

Over the years, Crestron’s cooperation with the Shanghai Golden Bridge Info Tech Co., Ltd opened up a number of effective collaboration models with local partners and key customers. Sharing their insights and experience, Randy Klein and Stuart Craig engaged with customer representatives and business partners at the Crestron One Customer Conference.

On the other hand, Mike Leung, Director of Technological Service of Crestron and Johnson Su, Senior Technological

NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Manager of Crestron China hosted the Technology Forum, which introduced to key partners Crestron’s products as well as world-class solutions.

“Crestron is a company with over 40 years’ history, whose products are all available 24 hours. However, we still keep being energetic in this industry, and our technology makes us active as the leading company till today. Our ultimate interest and objective is not just the increase of production and sales, but company’s growth! Today we have expanded to 6 times the size of the beginning, that is because we take “Healthy growth” as our first priority, other than simply production expansion.” said Randy Klein, President and CEO of Crestron.

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Crestron has continued striving to improve its quality control system over the years to ensure our products remain on the cutting-edge and our customers always receive the best experience. Today, Creston is widely recognized by the industry for offering the most reliable products.

The need for information technology applications as well as solutions that enhance daily conveniences continue to grow in China. With Crestron’s well-equipped customer experience centers, cutting-edge technologies and improved services, we believe we can reshape modern lifestyle by creating a more innovative, intelligent and personalized living and work environment. www.crestron.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Sennheiser Maintains Optimistic Outlook for Middle East Audio-Video Market After Posting 20% Growth in Q1 2017 and participating at industry trade shows including CABSAT, InfoComm MEA, and Prolight + Sound Middle East. As a result, as soon as market conditions improved, we were well positioned to capitalize on new opportunities.”

A strategic focus for Sennheiser has been growing its footprint in Saudi Arabia. Earlier this year, the company appointed Charbel Ghaoui as its new Area Sales Manager in the Kingdom. The company also expanded its portfolio of Business Communications solutions for meeting rooms, with additions to its Speechline Digital Wireless and TeamConnect solution ranges, including wireless and ceiling versions of the solutions.

“We remain keenly aware of the need to create new opportunities for ourselves and our channel partners by diversifying our product range. We have therefore introduced new solutions to target the prosumer segment with a focus on products that use the latest technologies and features to bring genuine value to the applications in which people need products that are easy to use and are at an attractive price point,” said Cardamone.

Projects and Customer Wins Mig Cardamone, Director of Sales and Marketing at Sennheiser Middle East

DUBAI: Shaking off the economic uncertainties that challenged companies in the Middle East in 2016, the regional audio visual (AV) market is once again showing steady growth. This is evident as Sennheiser announced a healthy 20% Year on Year (YoY) growth of its business-to-business (B2B) and prosumer segments driven by an increase in market confidence, greater demand for feature-rich, cost-effective solutions, and renewed investment in large projects within the region. The sectors that present the biggest opportunity to the AV industry include hospitality, retail, education, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions).

“It’s no secret that 2016 was a challenging year for business in the Gulf region, but we are a little more optimistic this year, especially here in the UAE and in the verticals of broadcast, corporate AV and education,” said Mig Cardamone, Director of Sales and Marketing at Sennheiser Middle East. “An important takeaway is that even in challenging times, businesses must continue to invest in the region to ensure local relevance and to build trust and confidence with your customers. Last year, we stuck to our plan for the Middle East by expanding our team, conducting several roadshows and training events

Contributing to Sennheiser’s impressive performance has been its ability to successfully implement large-scale projects in the region. Recently, the Royal Opera House, Muscat increased its inventory of Sennheiser wireless microphones by adding 24-channels of the audio specialist’s flagship Digital 9000 system. This adds to the 16-channels of the EM 1046 wireless microphone system, which are still being used by the venue. Also in the Sultanate, Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) took delivery of 45-channels of the EW500-965 G3– Sennheiser’s top-of-the-range G3 wireless handheld system.

Another large win for the audio specialist has been Abu Dhabi based broadcaster, LIVE HD, which has specified 16-channels of Digital 9000 for their studios, following a comprehensive onsite demonstration against competitive offerings.

Looking ahead, Cardamone believes the AV industry should maintain a positive outlook through 2017. He said, “Instead of pushing ‘nice to have’ technologies, manufacturers should focus on products within their portfolios that solve critical business needs. So long as you can clearly demonstrate the value that your solution can deliver, customers will be interested in investing.” www.sennheiser.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Biamp Systems Elevates Commitment To Industry With Expanded Training Offerings USA: Biamp Systems, a leading provider of innovative, networked media systems, is building upon its commitment to the continuing education of the pro AV industry. The company is transitioning its individual product platform certification to an online format, enabling integrators, systems designers, and end users to learn at their own pace and convenience.

Biamp is also adding a new category of in-person training. This session — The Biamp AV Lab — provides in-depth, hands-on training for the Tesira audio and video platform. The Biamp AV Lab, which will be offered at its Oregon headquarters, is a way for AV integrators and system designers to deepen their skillset while learning in a collaborative environment alongside peers.

“Making our certification training completely available in an online/on-demand environment puts the power of education at your fingertips — at your convenience, and at your own pace,” said Kiley Henner, director of customer experience at Biamp. “Whether you want to grow your knowledge, gain InfoComm International renewal units, or just refresh with some tips and tricks, Biamp leverages the expertise of our application engineers to create training sessions that fully support AV professionals, arming them with the tools to tackle the challenges faced today.”

Biamp’s online certification program consists of self-guided sessions with comprehension testing throughout the curriculum, ensuring fluency in the subject matter before moving on to the next area of focus. Training topics include

sessions for TesiraFORTÉ, Tesira SERVER/SERVER-IO, TesiraLUX, Vocia, Audia, and VoIP for Technicians. In addition, the TesiraFORTÉ and Vocia courses are available in Spanish. All certification training is provided at no cost.

The new Biamp AV Lab training will be a hands-on, advanced workshop, where a small group of trainees will create audio and video systems, realizing possible solutions available across the Biamp product platforms from the ground up. The AV Lab trainees will gain confidence in using multiple media network protocols (AVB/TSN, CobraNet, and Dante), while getting up close and personal with everything DSP. Continuing Biamp's commitment to help support AV integrators moving into the IT space, the workshop includes hands-on configuration and considerations for working with enterprise-level network switches. The in-depth, three-day, immersive training course will be available to those who have successfully completed Biamp’s TesiraFORTÉ, Tesira SERVER/SERVER-IO, TesiraLUX, Vocia, and VoIP certification training courses. The first session is slated for July 2017. www.biamp.com/training-online

Hikvision Joins The HDBaseT Alliance INTERNATIONAL: Hikvision, a company that produces innovative, award-winning video surveillance products and solutions, announced that it has joined the HDBaseT Alliance as an Adopter member.

The HDBaseT Alliance was established in 2010 by LG Electronics, Samsung Electronics, Sony Pictures Entertainment and Valens to promote and standardize HDBaseT for the transmission of ultra-high-division multimedia content.

“HDBaseT expands the technological possibilities we can offer our customers, allowing for more bandwidth and longer distances without compromising on quality and performance.

We are happy to join the HDBaseT Alliance and contribute the Hikvision technology to this important environment,” said Qian Xuefeng, General Manager of Display and Transmission BU, Hikvision.

HDBaseT technology, powered by Valens, enables all-inone connectivity between high-definition video sources and remote displays, through a single cable for up to 100 meters with category cable, or kilometers with fiber, including the transmission of ultra-high-definition video & audio, Ethernet, USB, control signals, and up to 100W of power.

“We are happy to welcome Hikvision to the HDBaseT Alliance.

Our goal is to bring the leading companies in the field to help us enrich even further the ecosystem we have built. Hikvision’s HDBaseT products will provide customers with an optimized solution for the transmission of ultra-high definition content,” said Ariel Sobelman, President, HDBaseT Alliance. www.hdbaset.org

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Good Success Church Built On RCF Sound From The Ground Up

AUSTRALIA: After operating from hired premises for many years, the board at Good Success Church (formerly Mighty Living Waters Life Fellowship) made the decision to develop a permanent home. A new building in Jandakot, south of Perth was chosen and so the journey began.

The committee at Good Success Church contacted AVL consultant Rob Scott of Trans Media Alliance (TMA). Rob’s business is reasonably unique in that Rob had spent many years in the AVL industry and many as a committed church member. Rob started life as a professional musician and these credentials have given him the background to consult and design audio, lighting,and vision systems for churches, large auditoriums and performing arts centres.

TMA consulted with both the architect and acoustic consultants to match the room acoustics to the performance of the RCF system. Roof heights were changed along with a custom design for the walls, ceiling panels and diffusers. The resulting room sound is spectacular. “It makes such a difference to the outcome when I am consulted before the project is built,” said Rob Scott TMA. “We found the Kosmic team professional and flexible to work with during the building and fit out process…. Kosmic also provided training and after completion support for transition to the new system. The result achieved with the acoustic treatments and audio system are ideal,” said Pastor Rajan, Senior Pastor, Good Success Church.

Good Success Church required a sound and lighting system appropriate for dynamic live services which at the same time were suitable for television program recording and live media projection. Five companies were invited to tender on the TMA specifications, which Kosmic Sound and Lighting won due to price, experience and professionalism.

Recognising that LED technology has reached a stage where it's possible to present a modern professional stage lighting system without dimmers and tungsten fittings, TMA were able to design a lighting system suitable for live performance, television recording and multimedia projections while reducing ongoing power operating costs.

Kosmic worked closely with Group Technologies to present a tender-winning speaker system for the building which is 30 metres wide yet only 20 metres deep. The RCF HDL 20a active line array system was chosen. Each hang consisted of three full-range line array elements coupled with additional LF on the ground. Additionally,two boxes of HDL10a were used as centre fills. A Xilica Uno processor was used to process the system.

Xilica’s high audio quality and powerful DSP platform allowed for everything from simple system tuning to pre-set system configurations depending on the size and scope of any event in the space.

“This is an exceptionally professional AVL integrated system installation, indeed a reference model for the new modern systems using line array and LED technology. Congratulations to Good Success Church for their foresight, and Kosmic for their professionalism,” said Rob Scott, Consultant www.rcf.it www.kosmicsound.com.au www.transmediaalliance.com.au

WHAT WILL YOU CREATE? If you install or design AV systems for your clients, this is a show you can’t miss.

InfoComm is the largest pro-AV trade show in North America featuring 1,000 exhibitors from leading brands, thousands of products, and 40,000 attendees from 110 countries.

Find new audio and video products, training, case studies, and networking opportunities to help you create exceptional AV projects that will meet the needs of your clients.

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Globaltronics Holds Philips Digital Integration And Evolution Event

PHILIPPINES: The first ever Philips Digital Integration and Evolution Event was organized and made possible by Globaltronics, a digital innovation company and the Exclusive Partner of Philips in the Philippines. This memorable event was held at Tower Club, Philam Life Bldg. Makati City last April 26, 2017 and was attended by participants from well known companies like San Miguel, Philippines Stock Exchange, Metrobank, PAGCOR, Meralco, PSE, Robinsons Land among others.

Philips monitors were integrated with different solutions to recreate Menu Board, Command Center, Signage Solution and Education scenarios to give the guests at the event a true experience and feel of the product in action.

“Digital Signage Technology can now put screens the size of a large cinema in places where static billboards used to be, and replace most of the signage on public transport or in your local shopping centre with moving, dynamic screens that look 1000x more compelling,� said William Guido, President and CEO of Globaltronics.

Philips and Globaltronics were also generous enough to give not just one, but 4 units of the latest 43" Ambilight Monitor as a Grand Raffle aside from a number of other minor raffle prizes during the event. www.globaltronics.net

The event was graced by the Asia Pacific Sales Director, Rob Fowler who gave a talk about the current market of Philips in APAC which topped at number 3 position in 2016 on a head to head battle with other leading Brands.

Globaltronics also showcased Signage Live, a well known digital signage software, at the event. Guests were educated on how vibrant and appealing their Philips displays can possibly be using this powerful software.

Rob Fowler (Centre), with the team from Globaltronics

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

RGB Spectrum Holds Technology And Training Symposium

SINGAPORE: RGB Spectrum held its second Symposium in Singapore in May at the Marina Bay Sands Exhibition and Convention Centre. This year RGB added training certification as part of the symposium. Session 201 was targeted at the design engineers offering them in-depth knowledge of how RGB solutions integrate with other solutions for optimal outcome. Session 301 was targeted at field engineers to empower them to understand the systems set-up confidently so that they can handle minor issues on the fly. In addition, the training will also help the field engineers to train the end-users on using the systems effectively.

The first day training was specific to the MediaWall V and the second day training was on the Galileo and Zio. Concurrently there was also a general presentation and overview of the RGB solutions being presented in another room on both days, targeted at end-users and those interested to know more about RGB Spectrum’s solutions.

“We included the certification training for this year’s symposium as we really wanted to make sure that our integration parters had the skills to properly setup and install RGB products. It is a value add that the industry has embraced with the great turnout that we have had for our training certification,” said Ken Pefkaros, RGB Spectrum’s Marketing Manager.

The certification trainings were conducted by Terry King, who is RGB’s Training Manager. “Blending of AV and Content is getting amalgamated. This requires various level of IT expertise and our training is to help our partners do their job effectively,” said Terry.

A similar symposium was held in Hong Kong the following week, without the MediaWall V training. “Our training is altered specific to the need of the region we are in. In SouthEast Asia, the MediaWall V solution is in demand whereas in Hong Kong this is not the case,” said Ken. The training in Singapore saw attendees from Singapore, Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines and even Laos.

More than just solutions One important message that was shared with attendees to the Symposium was the value add Design service provided by RGB Spectrum. Ken highlighted about the RGB Web Portal which includes the Engineering Design Services feature. Partners need to fill in a questionnaire that will enable the Design team from RGB Spectrum to understand the requirements and provide a full solution including drawing.

“This is our commitment to our partners. Should they require the service it is readily available for them to take advantage of,” said Ken. This certification training and design services fit in perfectly with the recent inclusion of RGB as an InfoComm APEx Advocate Partner. InfoComm International has introduced the APEx Advocate program, recognizing AV manufacturers that are dedicated to supporting AV integrators and design consultants focused on “high standards of employee training and certification” who provide “exceptional solutions to their clients.”

RGB Spectrum “is proud to be among the first manufacturers to become an InfoComm APEx Advocate,” says John Henkel, director of product marketing, noting the company offers InfoComm-certified training. “As we celebrate our 30th year, our commitment to helping system integrators and dealers gain the knowledge they need to excel remains a key tenet of our business. APEx-designated integrators help the entire industry by providing more efficient and intelligent system design and implementation.” www.rgb.com

(L-R) Ken Pefkaros, Shiraz Khan, Benjamin Yap, Dennis Carle and Terry King of RGB Spectrum

International Exhibition of Professional Technologies and Services for the Entertainment and Creation Industry

17 – 19 October, 2017 Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre

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Where can you find the latest and greatest AV products as well as cutting-edge know-how, impactful education and intelligent market insights?

At the 2017 edition of Prolight + Sound Middle East, which presents, for the first time, ‘The Events, Technology and Entertainment Development `Forum’.

It’s where government, events, leisure, creation, entertainment and tourism organisations will share their outlook, expectations and strategies for the future. A future you can pre-register to be a part of.

• ProAudio • Lighting • Multimedia • Staging • Conference

For more information visit www.prolightsoundME.com For visitor registration visit www.prolightsoundME.com/SIA

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Systems Integration Asia Proud To Bring SynAudCon Training To The Philippines

Delegates with Biamp's Matthew and Thomas and Pat Brown (Front row, last three gentlemen standing on the right)

PHILIPPINES: One of Systems Integration Asia’s key goals is to bring training to the region that would help to upgrade knowledge. “We embarked on this in 2015 when we brought SynAudCon (also known as prosoundtraining) to Singapore.

We followed this up with a wireless seminar that we did in conjunction with Sennheiser in the Philippines. This was followed by two full day seminars at our Houses of Worship event in the Philippines in 2016. This year we are pleased that we were able to bring SynAudCon’s “The Principles Of Sound System Design” training to the Philippines,” said Thomas Prakasam, Publisher of Systems Integration Asia.

“It would be difficult for many in the industry within the region to attend training such as SynAudCon that are mainly held in USA. We of course would not be able to bring the training to the region without the support of sponsors. Biamp has been outstanding in this aspect, as they have supported us in our training programmes as their motto has been, “the more knowledgeable the industry, the better the industry will progress”.

The training in Manila was held on the 11th and 12th of May at the Holiday Inn Manila Galleria. A total of 39 paying delegates attended the training, with a sprinkling of attendees from Singapore, Indonesia and Hong Kong making up the class. Pat Brown, owner of SynAudCon and instructor at the event commented, “I really enjoyed teaching this group. I was not only impressed by their level of knowledge but also by their motivation to learn. It was a very rewarding teaching experience.”

“It is important to have this sort of training as many in the industry need to know the basic fundamentals.

Right now there are design softwares that makes it easy to design a space Hanzel Dizon but you need to know the fundamentals on how to build the system into the space. This training and understanding the principles will also help us explain to our clients better why we need to do certain things,” said Hanzel Dizon of Systech Lighting and Controls, Inc. Raymundo Sison of ROS Acoustics Solutions adds, “Pat Brown was very clear with his explanations. Things that I did not know, now I know because of the simplicity of how Pat puts it across and of Raymundo Sison course now after attending this training, I know more too. I feel that there are actually huge mis-steps in venues in the Philippines so this training will help people to know better.

I hope one aspect all the attendees will take away is that it is not just the speakers but there are other aspects to consider as well.”

NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Galih Homare

Galih Homare, Esthio Sound from Jakarta highlighted that the seminar was great, “I received a lot of knowledge over the two days and it really helps me as a System Engineer in Indonesia.”

Jonathan Gonzales of The Ghetto Multimedia comments, “I need to know how equipment works. This training by Pat has been very informative. It makes you realise that what you have been reading is true.

We need a knowledgeable person such as Pat to teach Jonathan Gonzales us as he uses his experience to further augment his training which is very helpful.”

“It gets us to take the guess work out of the sound systems and work more professionally because of this training. For me it was a refresher and to get updated. Pat’s trainin is very

Edgar David

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Michael Sanchez

clear and understandable,” said pleased Edgar David of EDM Electronics.

Michael Sanchez of AVSC added that it was good to have this knowledge as this is not a typical training and hoped that more trainings of similar vein could be conducted in the future.

Systems Integration Asia would like to thank Pat and Brenda Brown for all their input and flexibility and of course for conducting a great training, our sponsor Biamp without which we would not have been able to bring the training to the Philippines and Pro Audio Asia for lending support to this initiative. www.systemsintegrationasia.com

Audio-Technica Appoints Green Sources As Install Distributor INDIA: Audio-Technica Corporation recently announced the appointment of Green Sources Pvt. Ltd. as their professional installation product distributor for India.

Green Sources will distribute the entire range of installation wired and wireless microphones, including the renowned UniPoint and Engineered Sound microphones, the 2.4GHz System 10 Professional Wireless Microphones and the award winning AT-UC50 Digital Discussion System and ATCS-60 Infrared Discussion System.

Founded in 2009, Green Sources distributes premium brands of Audio Visual, Conferencing and Mounting products in India by maintaining a strong commitment to service, marketing, logistics and technical support.

Through a wide network spread across India, Green Sources aims at providing value added services to all AV Integrators and Partners, enabling them to more efficiently extend their business and meet customer requirements.

“The appointment of Green Sources is in line with our commitment to the Indian market and is one of the initiatives from the bouquet of investments Audio-Technica is making towards this important market,” said Audio-Technica Corporation Japan’s General Manager for the International Division Manabu Aoki. “I look forward to the further development of a strong and co-operative strategic alliance strengthening Audio-Technica’s profile in India.”

Green Sources and Audio Technica teams

Robin Ghose, Business Development Manager for AudioTechnica in India added “an organized and well positioned partner such as Green Sources, with its significant assets in terms of people, systems, as well as pan-India presence will help us address the Indian customer needs effectively, using our high quality and technically innovative products.”

“We at Green Sources are excited to be associated with Audio-Technica,” said Swadesh Khetawat, Managing Director of Green Sources. “With our Pan India presence and long experience catering to the AV domain, we will add great value and bring synergy to our esteemed partners and AudioTechnica.” www.audio-technica.com www.greensources.co

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

LG Launches B2B Solutions At Grand Tech Programme INDIA: As part of its ambitious and unique Grand Tech Seminar initiative, LG Electronics India launched a wide range of B2B products. Conducted as day-long programmes in Bengaluru and Mumbai recently, the initiative saw the launch of an exciting range that included Dual-View Curved Tiling OLED Signage; Wallpaper OLED Signage; Pro Centric SMART OLED TV for Hotels; smart LED Outdoor Signage; and Pro Beam Portable Projector.

The Dual-View Curved Tiling OLED Signage is an innovative and cutting-edge technology from LG. It has the perfect picture quality and revolutionary pencil-thin design, adding artistic features to its display functionality. It boasts of a two-way media display experience for multiuse while saving space due to its innovative slim depth. A limitless contrast, accurate colors, perfect viewing screen, crisp and clear motion along with the perfect design are some of the distinguishing features of the OLED Technology.

The Wallpaper OLED Signage is surprisingly slim, light and space-saving. This product provides an exceptional user experience with its infinite contrast ratio and stunning picture quality as well as gives a premium look to the space , owing to its paper-thin depth.

It can also be put on a wall using a magnetic mat. This is possible only with its slim and light design features.

The Pro:Centric SMART OLED TV for Hotels is specially designed for premium hotel rooms and supports guest-centric solutions. It offers elaborate and smart modes of control and customization for commercial televisions and is a perfect blend of latest technology and aesthetic beauty. The product delivers the finest colours and has an enhanced sound quality supported by Harman/Kardon technology, offering the guests an unparalleled TV viewing experience. The sleekness of the design, entertainment features and hospitality features make this product unique. The stunning picture quality of the OLED combined with LG’s smart hotel TV technologies will allow hotels to offer tailored solutions to their guests and elevate their brand to new heights.

The Smart LED Outdoor Signage series with high brightness, enhanced durability and a global service network, maximizes the effectiveness of advertisements by delivering rich and dynamic content in any outdoor environment. It comes with an intelligent diagnostic system with real-time monitoring which effectively manages brightness, reports errors and provides upgrades. It has a mobile operation functionality to manage and distribute content easily. The enhanced waterproofing and rigid structure of the LED Outdoor Signage give it superior durability. The high brightness ensures enhanced visibility and deep contrasts make this product exceptional.

The Pro Beam is a superior portable Projector which optimizes the home cinema environment by giving the users a big home screen experience which is more realistic. It conveniently brings a diverse range of functions far superior than existing portable projectors. The users can enjoy striking video content even in the brightness of a standard living room. It is also a perfect solution for boardroom meetings and to give presentations in classrooms for delivering crisp and engaging educational content. ‘’LG has always been a brand with a difference. We are constantly striving to deliver the best of innovation and latest technology to our customers. The B2B Grand Tech Seminar is one such endeavour from LG that is aimed in this direction,” said Hemendu Sinha, Business Head, B2B, LG Electronics India. “It is a forum that helps us to showcase the best of what we have to offer. With this tech-seminar, our customers and partners will get to experience LG’s world-class products with state of the art technology all under one roof. The first-hand experience to witness these products helps them find the latest solutions for their needs while we at LG get to experience an enhanced engagement with them.’’ www.lge.com

R R U U O O Y Y D N I F I CK O OFF IIO N N O T .

T LA EGRRA A G .

G T E N G NT URBBIIN IIN R T S U IIST D D 26 – 28 July 2017 Singapore Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre iExperience of Tomorrow – a SMART Hospitality and SMART Corporate Experience iExperience of Tomorrow – a SMART Hospitality and SMART Corporate Experience For the first time, walk-through a live mock-up of a fully integrated hospitality and corporate setting at the For the first time, walk-through a live mock-up of benefits a fully “iExperience of Tomorrow” showcase to feel the integrated hospitality corporate Touch settingdown at theat“iExperience of automation for yourand organisation. the of Tomorrow” showcase feel the benefitsguest of automation exhibition, check-in with to your personalised for your organisation.

Touch down at theand exhibition, check-in with concierge, immerse yourself in content a hotel room your personalised guest concierge, based on your preferences, control aimmerse meetingyourself with thein content and a hotel room based on your your experience preferences,with control a meeting touch of a button, and end a drink. with the touch of a button, and end your experience with a drink.

Register Register your your visit visit or or find find out out more more at at www.systems-expo.com. www.systems-expo.com.

For For enquiries, enquiries, email email marketing3@giec.biz. marketing3@giec.biz.

Reduce costs, increase productivity, improve efficiency, enhance collaboration, and create a better customer experience with products Reduce costs, & solutions at increase Systems productivity, Expo 2017. improve efficiency, enhance collaboration, and create a better customer experience with products & solutions at Systems Expo 2017. www.systems-expo.com

www.systems-expo.com 26 – 28 July 2017 Singapore Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre

Held alongside: Held alongside:

www.tourismtechnologyasia.com | www.proavlasia.com www.tourismtechnologyasia.com | www.proavlasia.com

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Globe International Events Consultancy Takes To The Road To Promote Its Upcoming Events In Singapore THAILAND/INDONESIA: As part of a concerted effort to bring attendees to its events in Singapore in July, Globe International Events Consultancy (GIEC), participated in two events in Thailand and Indonesia respectively to spread its message to their target audience. GIEC will be holding its Tourism Technology Asia, Pro AVL and Systems Expo exhibitions at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore from 26 – 28 July 2017.

Road to Tourism Technology Asia: More than 300 attendees at SMART MICE Thailand 2017 Speakers included perspectives from Singapore, with Mr Andrew Phua, Director, Singapore Tourism Board sharing Singapore’s SMART MICE case study and Mr Arun Madhok, Chief Executive Officer of Suntec Singapore in the panel discussion.

Tourism Technology Asia also shared insights on moving Beyond the “What” of Technology, touching on the importance of identifying planned customer experiences before navigating the sea of technologies to find solutions to bring these experiences to life.

As part of the Road to Tourism Technology Asia initiatives, Globe International Events Consultancy collaborated with the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) to bring eight exhibitors showcasing solutions for the “Thailand Towards Tomorrow” project. With an overwhelming response, more than 300 attendees including VIPs, Mr Pansak Siriruchatapong, Vice Minister for Digital Economy and Society, Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, and Mr Weerasak Kowsurat, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau, attended the 1-day event on 4 May 2017, at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park.

“Thailand Towards Tomorrow” projects the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau’s (TCEB) ambition to drive the economy within the MICE industry with innovation and technology, as part of Thailand 4.0. The day’s agenda targeted MICE related industries such as hoteliers, event organisers, large-scale venues, contractors, travel companies, airlines, and government agencies.

Mr Pansak Siriruchatapong presided in the Opening Ceremony and said Digital Technology has been identified to support Thailand 4.0 in enhancing Thailand’s competitiveness in the world through a digital transformation in the country: from Smart Economy, to Smart Mobility, to Smart Living, and Smart Environments. MICE Technologies (which fall under Tourism Technologies) have also been identified to benefit companies in reducing costs & time, improve operations, enhance marketing, and create better customer experiences.

Other speakers at the event touched on case studies as well as trends in digital technologies that could aid businesses in streamlining processes and improving customer experiences.

Rosalind Ng, Managing Director of Globe International Events Consultancy said, “The event was part of the “Road to Tourism Technology Asia” series of pre-show promotion initiatives leading up to the main Tourism Technology Asia exhibition in Singapore from 26 – 28 July 2017, at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. The event increased the regional reach of by creating more awareness of the main event in Singapore where visitors will be able to explore more technologies and solutions for their organisation.”

Tourism Technology Asia, held concurrently with Pro AVL Asia and Systems Expo 2017, will showcase a series of hardware and software solutions that originate from end-user experiences to create exceptional experiences for clients and guests in various applications relevant to corporate IT, hospitality, large scale venues, live events, leisure, tourism, and entertainment sectors. Attendees can look forward to several special features which include educational seminars and a live walk-through in the full mock-up of a SMART Hospitality and SMART Corporate immersive experience, showcasing the applications of Internet of Things, systems integration, and automation.

NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

39

The Rise of SMART Facilities and Exceptional Experiences Through Technology businesses to increase ROI and productivity, as well as attend educational seminars for SMART technologies.

The second session of the day addressed the immersive and personalised experiences that entertainment technologies can now provide with the Launch of the Pro Arena as part of the Road to Pro AVL Asia initiative in Jakarta. Brands and concepts were released for live demo showcases of full entertainment solutions presented by international brands from Europe and Asia, on 4 stages at the main event: Pro AVL Asia 2017.

With the surge in technologically savvy employees and customers, organisations are looking towards SMART technologies, systems integration, and automation to bring about a more efficient, productive, secure environment. These technologies are also used as a tool to improve customer experiences across various applications. Supporting this trend, the “iExperience of Tomorrow” seminar and “Launch of the Pro Arena” networking event organised by Globe International Events Consultancy (Singapore) on 18 May 2017 addressed opportunities and case studies on how professionals can benefit from systems integration, SMART technologies and immersive solutions in their organisation and for their planned customer experience.

Held at the Indonesia Convention Exhibition Centre (ICE), the first session was part of the Road to Systems Expo initiatives, touching on topics such as “Bringing Tomorrow’s Intelligence to Hotels & Workspaces”, and focusing on “Integrating SMART Technologies to increase productivity and competitive advantage”. Relating to a crowd of senior management, IT professionals, contractors, and consultants from various industries, the seminar outlined the cost savings for companies who incorporated SMART technologies to improve energy efficiency, workplace strategy, and increase productivity.

Mr Philip Loh, Managing Director at Intelligent Building Solutions, one of the speaker cited that improving productivity by 2% would yield cost savings of $6.00 per square foot in productivity. For an office with 5,000 square feet of space, investing in SMART technologies for productivity can bring $30,000 in cost savings for the company.

To illustrate the benefits of SMART facilities, the main event, Systems Expo 2017 exhibition, will feature a full end-user experience at the exhibition from 26 – 28 July 2017, at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, in Singapore. Visitors to the event can look forward to an experiential first-hand journey through the “iExperience of Tomorrow” hospitality to corporate settings, find latest products & solutions for their

The Pro Arena pushes the boundaries of hardware and software for the professional audio visual and lighting industry by providing a live show during the trade exhibition in Singapore from 26 – 28 July 2017, at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. For the first time in Asia, visitors can view the Sound, Lighting and AV show live at the exhibition demonstrating with top brands such as Clay Paky (Italy), d3 Technologies (Germany), d&b AudioTechnik (Germany), DTS Lighting (Italy), Fenix (Spain), Highend Systems (USA), Philips Vari-lite (USA), RCF (Italy), TW Audio (Germany), Turbosound (UK) and more will be live in action at the Pro Arena.

The live demonstrations will be held as part of the special feature at the Pro AVL Asia and Systems Expo 2017 exhibitions during the main events in Singapore from 26 – 28 July 2017, at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. Integrating hardware and software, Systems Expo, Pro AVL Asia, and Tourism Technology Asia will be held concurrently. Entry to the trade exhibitions is free, and registered visitors will be able to access all three events.

To pre-register, and see travel packages, or for more information, go to www.systems-expo.com or www.proavlasia.com or www.tourismtechnologyasia.com

Rosalind Ng presenting a free hotel stay to a lucky winner during Systems Expo in Singapore.

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Barco Appoints VDSPL As National Distributor For ProAV Projectors INDIA: Barco, a global leader in professional visualisation and collaboration solutions, has appointed Visual Display Solutions Pvt Ltd. (VDSPL) as the national distribution partner for its ProAV Projector series in India. The tie-up is aimed towards facilitating more robust market and channel penetration for Barco’s projection solutions to meet the rising demand in visitor attractions, museums, theme park, 3D mappings and large venues in the Indian market.

Barco’s diverse range of future proof projection solutions comes equipped with key features for ProAV Projectors such as outstanding laser brightness (up to 40,000 Lumens), exceptional image resolution (up to 4K Ultra High Definition), razor-sharp images and extended light-source life (up to 40,000 hours). Barco projector products deliver maximum installation flexibility, 24/7 usage and true 4K image processing.

Visual Display Solutions Pvt Ltd (VDSPL), India's foremost Value added AV product and solution distributor with its experience, reach, solution selling approach and vertical focus is well placed to take this partnership with Barco to the next level. VDSPL is distributor for key AV technology and solutions companies in India. It has pan India presence with penetration into over 50 cities and over 350 channel partners. Headed by a team of professionals with more than four decades of industry and domain expertise, VDSPL is a major player in high end technology distribution.

“The demand for projection solutions guaranteeing better performance and enhanced operational efficiency, along with a more immersive end-user experience, is on the up. This market requirement in India is what we aim to fulfil with our cuttingedge ProAV Projector series,” Barco Electronic Systems India Managing Director Rajiv Bhalla said on the occasion. “With VDSPL as our national distribution partner, we are confident of meeting the growing demand for future-ready projection solutions with our extensive range of world-class offerings.”

Ramya Chatterjee, Barco’s Director Sales – Entertainment & Visualization of South Asian Region, added, "Barco is pleased to announce this partnership with Visual Display Solutions as the national distribution partner for its ProAV Projector range.”

According to him, in 2017, Barco India is going to target customer segments with various user applications including convention centres, hotels, houses of worships, stadiums and arenas, visitor attractions (like water fountain etc.), fashion retail, automotive retail, advertising, utilities segment and the 3D mapping space.

Rajiv Bhalla, Barco new MD

“With this partnership, we shall enhance our geographical and channel reach and cater to the vast unexplored Indian market.

We remain committed to offer our world-class technology products to India,”Chatterjee added.

Sanjay Dhuria, Director – Visual Display Solution, commented, “we are very excited to partner with Barco. This partnership will add more depth to our product range with innovation-led projection technologies which are not available with any other brands in the industry. With Barco's wide range of unique projection solutions and technologically superior products, we shall be able to address the requirements for a variety of customers across multiple industry verticals.” www.barco.com www.visualdisplay.in www.ingress.net.in

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NEWS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Barco Night Singapore Introduces New UDX Projector And ClickShare Model

SEA General Manager (Entertainment) Eddie Tan starting the night off proper with a speech and toast.

SINGAPORE: The recent Barco Night Singapore was a night of relaxation and networking – traditionally hosted on the second day of the BroadcastAsia exhibition, the annual event allows industry partners and end-users to mingle and have a look at the company's latest ProAV and collaborative solutions.

The freestyle event kicked off with a speech by Eddie Tan, SEA General Manager (Entertainment) as he welcomed all who were present and invited his colleagues and partners to a toast.

Solutions on display included the F70 series of 4K UHD laser phosphor projectors, which are suitable for applications ranging from museums and auditoriums to motion platforms and science and technology experiences.

Boasting an advanced optical design and Constant Light Output (CLO) technology as well as Barco Pulse's Single Step Processing (SSP) technology, the projectors deliver razor-sharp images at 4K UHD resolution with saturated colours, and guarantees constant brightness and colour over a long period of time.

The UDX-4K32 boasting brightness and colour accuracy, even in bright environments.

Equipped with three-chip DLP technology and a high-contrast optical engine, the UDX-4K32 projector offers brightness, colour accuracy and stability, as well as the widest colour spectrum in the industry. The projector also offers 3840x2400 resolution, a 2000:1 contrast ratio and 16:10 aspect ratio.

Another highlight was the F90 series of laser phosphor projectors, with a new and more straightforward user interface and operating system that allows for software updates in the field. The projectors also offer up to 40,000 hours of operating time without requiring lamp changes.

The F90 projectors are suitable for use in applications ranging from events to boardrooms and large dome systems.

However, what stole the show at Barco Night was the new UDX-4K32 31,000 lumen laser phosphor projector, as well as the CSE-800, the newest addition to the ClickShare series of wireless collaboration tools.

The new ClickShare CSE-800.

The ClickShare CSE-800 allows users to connect two 4K screens, with the option of showing up to four user displays on each screen. The CSE-800 is also the only ClickShare model that allows moderation – users can select and moderate what they share on the meeting room screen, with no prior training or installation needed. www.barco.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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Complete, Single-Trigger Room Automation & Presentation Solution In A Box Kramer Maestro is an optional enhancement for other Kramer products, and lets IT managers create a series of actions based on a pre-defined event, or trigger, like plugging in a laptop.

These events can trigger actions such as turning on computers (via Wake-on-LAN) and turning on and off lights, projectors, displays, video sources, and HVAC.

The Kramer Maestro complete meeting room automation allows users to configure meeting room scenarios with the single-trigger software solution featured inside the Kramer DIP31M 4K60 auto switcher.

Benefits for IT include: • Simple remote configuring & management via Kramer Network • No programming required • Minimal user intervention • Fewer service calls, fewer headaches • User-friendly interface • Cost-effective • Up to 4K60 4:2:0 video resolution • Auto input detection & selection (priority or last connected) and manual input selection • Automatic analog audio detection & embedding www.kramerav.com

Award-Winning Matrox Mura IPX 4K IP Multiviewer Now Available Matrox Graphics has announced the immediate availability of their award-winning Matrox Mura IPX 4K IP decode and display card.

The new PCI Express card offers H.264 decoding of two 4Kp60, four 4Kp30, eight 1080p60, sixteen 1080p30 or many more SD streams. Four DisplayPort outputs—at resolutions up to 4K per display—make it a cost-effective, easy-to-integrate multiviewer for control rooms and AV presentation systems in security, corporate, defense, aerospace, utilities, government, medical, and education environments.

Specifically, MURA-IPX-O4DF is a PCIe x8 Gen2 card delivering high-density H.264 decoding and 4K video display in 32-bit colour on each of the four DisplayPort outputs. The standalone card is a uniquely "system-free" card, making for an energy efficient and versatile solution available in all environments a multiviewer is required.

AV integrators are provided all of the controls to deploy video walls with Matrox MuraControl video wall management software for Windows and iPad, and the Matrox Network

API enables ISVs to expose new capabilities within their own software. Added functionality specifically for multiviewer applications has been integrated into the cards, with text overlay to indicate window titles, stream sources, locations, or zones, and onscreen clock providing a temporal reference for accurate stream monitoring. www.matrox.com

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SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Welle Makes Any Surface "Smart" Using Sonar Technology Welcome to the modern world of controlling devices – Welle (pronounced vell-uh) is a smart device that promises to turn any surface into a “smart” interface by using Sonar Technology through hand gestures.

Welle connects an entire surface to Sonar, which allows users to control Internet of Things (IoT) devices, appliances and apps – these range from lights, TVs and speakers to PowerPoint presentations, apps and IFTTT (If this, then that) conditional task applets.

The smart device works anywhere with a Bluetooth connection, and uses Sonar Technology to track finger movements and recognise handwriting - Welle recognises standardised gestures, and also allows users to assign their own gestures and handwriting shortcuts.

An open Application Programming Interface (API) is also available for software and hardware developers to redefine gestures if they wish to do so.

Welle will be available in October and priced at $99, and is currently on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1 781885077/1423513448?token=74255447 maxustech.com

Atlona Brings New HDR-Compatible 4k AV Devices To Market The Rondo 442 and Rondo 444 offer significant value to systems integrators. Both distribution amplifiers offer EDID management features to ensure compatibility between source and sink devices. Both models also have front panel LED indicators for power and signal status to simplify setup and troubleshooting. In addition, installers can cascade up to eight units without compromising performance, ensuring that system designs and configurations can easily be adapted or modified.

Atlona is marching forward with the availability of its JunoX Series switcher and Rondo Series video distribution amplifiers - all three products support 4K/UHD video @ 60 Hz with 4:4:4 chroma sampling, and HDMI data rates up to 18 Gbps.

The JunoX Series (AT-JUNO-451) is a 4x1 HDMI switcher ideal for applications requiring the latest generation of 4K/UHD and HDR sources and displays. It is compatible with all video resolutions, audio formats, and colour space formats supported in the HDMI 2.0a specification, and passes metadata for HDR content.

The JunoX 451 is HDCP 2.2 compliant and features automatic input switching. It also supports HDMI Audio Return Channel for receiving digital audio from a television, and includes a TOSLINK digital audio output for sending this audio to an AV receiver or soundbar.

The Rondo 442 (AT-RON-442) and Rondo 444 (AT-RON-444) provide two-output and four-output distribution amplifier options, respectively, for commercial and residential environments. Like the JunoX 451 switcher, both Rondo devices are compatible with all video resolutions, audio formats, and color space formats supported in the HDMI 2.0a specification, and can pass metadata for HDR content. Both models are also HDCP 2.2 compliant.

The JunoX 451 provides EDID management features and can be controlled via Ethernet, RS-232, and IR, including the handheld IR remote control with which it is sold. It is configured and managed remotely by the free Atlona Management System (AMS).

All three devices are ideal for applications including: • Installations utilizing the latest UHD and HDR sources such as Ultra HD Blu-ray players, plus compatible televisions and projectors • TV showrooms requiring reliable content distribution to televisions to properly demonstrate high quality 4K and HDR programming • Professional AV applications with full-motion, highly detailed 4K graphics presentations for visualization, 3D renderings, simulations, and more The Rondo 442 and Rondo 444 distribution are priced at $339.99 and $469.99, respectively, while the JunoX 451 switcher is available for $489.99. All three products are now shipping and available worldwide, and include Atlona’s 10-year limited product warranty. www.atlona.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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tvONE Ships CORIOmaster Micro CORIOmaster micro is the ideal, cost effective solution for 4-screen 2x2 video walls, projector edge blends or small multiviewer applications that don't require a full sized CORIOmaster. All this in a 1RU half rack sized chassis - It even fits in a ONErack!

Features include:

The new CORIOmaster micro half-rack unit is a small yet powerful video processor. Not only does the CORIOmaster micro deliver the same bandwidth and functionality of CORIOmaster in a super-compact form capable of accepting up to three modules, but it also adds audio support as well as front panel buttons for source routing and preset recalling.

Specifically designed to be easy to deploy without compromising performance, presentation or functionality,

• integrated control panel with multiple modes including power on/off, mode selection, presets, source switching and panel lock • audio management wth mute/unmute, +/- 20dB audio level adjustments per input, preset selects and present changes • Pairing with companion products such as the ONErack, under/over surface wall mounts or the 19” rack mount The CORIOmaster can be used in control rooms, corporate boardrooms and retail applications. www.tvone.com

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SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Extron Introduces Four-Channel DTP Output Card For Quantum Ultra Videowall Processor Extron Electronics has introduced the new Quantum OUT4DTP, a four-channel DTP output card for the Quantum Ultra videowall processor. The Quantum OUT4DTP card sends video signals up to 330 feet (100 meters) over shielded CATx cable.

In four-channel mode the unit supports resolutions up to 2K. Dual-channel mode supports two single path 4K/30 signals, while single-channel mode supports one dual-path or quad path 4K/60 signal. Output format selection provides a choice of DTP, XTP, or HDBaseT output modes.

Power insertion on the Quantum OUT4DTP enables remote powering of DTP receivers, eliminating the need for separate power supplies at the remote units. Bidirectional RS-232 and IR insertion provides control of AV devices by transmitting data alongside the video signal over DTP connections, allowing the remote device to be controlled without the need for additional cabling.

Quantum Ultra is a modular 4K videowall processor with high-performance scaling and windowing technology which accommodates a wide range of applications. It features the Extron Vector 4K scaling engine and HyperLane video bus capable of carrying a multitude of high-resolution sources for unmatched real-time performance. A single processor can support multiple videowalls with mixed resolutions and screen orientations, providing flexible system design with minimal complexity and cost.

Portrait and landscape output support, output overlap, and mullion compensation provide compatibility with nearly any display technology. RS-232 and Ethernet interfaces provide direct connections for control systems. Quantum Ultra’s configurability, features, and performance make it a futureready solution for any videowall application. www.extron.com

AptoVision Adds Zero-Latency Scaling Mode To BlueRiver NT2000 AV-over-IP Chipset AptoVision has announced that the latest firmware release for its BlueRiver NT2000 AV-over-IP chipset is now available and includes a new mode that enables video to be transported and scaled without latency. The new release also includes an advanced chroma resampling engine for complete video format flexibility. All video processing functions including broadcastquality scaling, multi-source video compositing and video wall processing with bezel correction can be applied to any video signal without restriction.

AptoVision's flagship chipset, BlueRiver NT2000, is part of the BlueRiver NT+ Series, which are the world’s only chipsets to transport uncompressed, zerolatency Ultra HD/4K HDR over Ethernet, and the foundation of SDVoE technology. The chipsets are HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 compatible and transmit true 4K/60Hz (4:4:4) video with

latency under one tenth of a millisecond over 100m of CAT‐x or 30KM of fibre. They support the complete range of signal types including audio, GbE, USB 2.0, RS-232 and IR, all of which can be routed independently.

Audio can be extracted from or injected into any HDMI stream within the network. BlueRiver NT2000 offers high-value AV processing capabilities which enable video-wall, multi-view and seamless switching applications.

BlueRiver NT2000 will be powering all the demonstrations in the SDVoE Alliance booth at InfoComm 2017 (Orlando, June 14-16, booth 3729). www.aptovision.com www.sdvoe.org

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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RTI Expands Audio Experience With AD-16x Audio Matrix Switcher RTI has announced the availability of the all-new AD-16x 16x16 audio matrix switcher. Part of RTI's lineup of audio distribution solutions, the AD-16x seamlessly integrates into the RTI ecosystem, providing users with intuitive audio management and making the experience simple and enjoyable.

Ideal for large, multi-zone audio installations, the AD-16x provides routing for 16 audio sources across 16 zones, while RTI Cool Power amplifiers (CP-450/CP-1650) drive crystal-clear audio to every speaker. For added convenience, the AD-16x also features eight remote source inputs, which allow devices located in other rooms to be used as global sources. When the system grows past 16 zones, up to four AD-16x units can be cascaded for up to 64 output zones. The switch also delivers complete audio management, including parametric equalizing, zone grouping, and balance control — all configurable via a convenient web interface.

Setting the AD-16x apart is the engineering that enables this matrix to become an extension of the RTI ecosystem. At the heart of this powerful integration is the AD64 two-way driver running on an RTI XP processor, which delivers unmatched

flexibility and programming efficiency. The driver features custom project labelling, allowing integrators to name all zones and sources and eliminating tedious programming by ID number. Pushing the user experience to new levels, the driver also allows dynamic audio source management, which tracks active sources. This allows a user to determine if a source is already in use and select a different one to avoid an inadvertent music change.

The AD-16x is now shipping. www.rticorp.com

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SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Blackmagic Design Announces New UltraStudio HD Mini With Thunderbolt 3 UltraStudio HD Mini features advanced Thunderbolt 3 technology that is capable of transferring data at up to 40 Gb/s. These data rates make it possible to capture and play back fully uncompressed video, leaving the computer’s CPU free for more processing tasks. UltraStudio HD Mini is also powered via Thunderbolt 3, so it powers from a laptop computer’s battery and customers don’t have to carry an external power supply with them when they’re on the road.

Key features include:

Blackmagic Design has announced UltraStudio HD Mini, the world’s first portable Thunderbolt 3 capture and playback solution with 3G-SDI, HDMI and analog connections for broadcast quality 10-bit recording up to 1080p60 and 2K DCI. The UltraStudio HD Mini is a portable Thunderbolt 3 capture and playback solution that’s small enough to take anywhere and powerful enough to work on high end projects. It can capture and playback all formats up to 1080p60 in full 10-bit YUV, or up to 1080p30 and 2K DCI in 12-bit RGB. UltraStudio HD Mini features HDMI output for monitoring on a big screen television, dual 3G-SDI outputs for fill and key playback, plus analog audio and video inputs for digitizing and archiving materials from older analog decks.

The UltraStudio HD Mini has been specifically designed to enable customers to perform archiving, edit monitoring and live broadcast graphics tasks, while using the latest Thunderbolt 3 based computers for maximum performance.

• Thunderbolt 3 interface capable of up to 40 Gb/s transfer speeds • Thunderbolt 3 for bus powered operation • 3G-SDI input and two 3G-SDI outputs for dual link SDI playback and fill and key • Supports 3G-SDI Level A and Level B • HDMI 1.4a output • Y, Cb, Cr and NTSC/PAL input • Two 1/4” jack connectors for balanced analog audio input • Tri-Sync and Black Burst reference input • RS-422 deck control connection • Supports 16 channels of embedded audio on SDI and 2 channels on HDMI • Supports all SD and HD formats up to 1080p60 and 2K DCI 25p for 10bit YUV • Supports all SD and HD formats up to 1080p30 for 12bit RGB • Supports optional Teranex Mini Smart Panel for status • Supports optional Teranex Mini Rack Shelf for rack mounting UltraStudio HD Mini is now available for US$495 and will be demonstrated during NAB 2017 at booth #SL216. www.blackmagicdesign.com

Opticis Introduces Its Finest HDMI 2.0 Optical Fibre Solution Opticis is pleased to introduce the HDFX-300 (HDMI 2.0 optical fibre extender) and HDFC-200 (HDMI 2.0 fixed-end Active Optical Cable).

The HDFX-300 and HDFC-200 support HDMI 2.0 standards while transmitting 4K 60Hz(4096x2160) signal up to 100m, and have adopted high-retention HDMI connector to prevent accidental disconnection.

The HDFX-300 also provides an Auto Power-Switching feature and diagnosis feature, and is CEC, EDID and HDCP2.2 compliant.

The HDFC-200 adopts a plenum-graded & LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) hybrid cable, and is CEC, EDID and HDCP2.2 compliant.

Both the HDFX-300 and HDFC-200 are now shipping. www.opticis.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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New Danley SM-80F Combines Synergy Horn Loudspeaker And Tapped Horn Subwoofer Danley Sound Labs introduces the new SM-80F combined Synergy Horn loudspeaker and Tapped Horn subwoofer.

Working hand-in-glove, the integrated SM-80F produces rich low end and crystal clear high end from 45Hz to 17kHz that is uniformly phase coherent within an 80-degree conical beam.

Coaxial 12-inch and 1.4-inch mid-high drivers combine with two 15-inch drivers to deliver up to 128/135dB SPL continuous output. The SM-80F’s compact size (45” x 26” x 28” and 215 lbs.) and tremendous value make it an ideal solution for live sound rigs, installed houses of worship, theaters, theme parks, and much more.

“Our new Danley SM-80F will be an all-in-one solution for many applications and a potent, full-frequency member of larger systems,” said Mike Hedden, President of Danley Sound Labs.

“We pride ourselves on offering a full spectrum of products to meet the various demands of professional sound reinforcement systems, including beam widths, output power, and footprints.

The SM-80F will fill an asked-for niche in that spectrum, and we’re excited to start rolling them out the door!” www.danleysoundlabs.com

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SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Gefen Now Shipping New Award-Winning 4K Video Over IP Solution Gefen from Core Brands has announced it is now shipping two new award-winning 4K Ultra HD Video Over IP products.

The Sender and Receiver KVM units (the EXT-UHDV-KALANS-TX and EXT-UHDV-KA-LANS-RX) join the existing Gefen Video Over IP products and add 4K support, a built-in scaler, videowall capability, Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), and digital/ analog audio break-out.

Gefen’s next generation Video Over IP products can transmit 4K video content up to 3840 x 2160 at 60 Hz and 4:2:0 Chroma subsampling. This new pair utilizes an effective and time-tested compression codec to ensure that the most popular formats for today’s 4K sources are supported, while also retaining the ability of Gefen’s current generation to exist on the most commonly deployed Gigabit network infrastructures. Both products support HDMI input resolutions up to 4K 60Hz 4:2:0 and output resolutions up to 4K 30Hz 4:4:4, HDCP 2.2 and 1.4, and 7.1 channels of HBR (High Bit Rate) lossless and LPCM digital audio up to 330 feet.

Additionally, both the Sender and Receiver units support the concurrent connection of a VGA and HDMI device. The Sender acts as a switcher, allowing the user to select either the analog VGA input or digital HDMI input as a source for the video over IP network. A local VGA output is also available to monitor either selected signal. On the Receiver, the VGA and HDMI outputs are both active and function as a video splitter, providing analog and digital outputs for nearly any display present. The VGA input and output support VESA resolutions up to 1920x1200 at 60Hz (WUXGA). This product also provides

RS-232 and 2-way IR routing between the Sender and the Receiver units, allowing the transfer of IR commands and RS232 communications among all sources and the displays.

Both products can also take advantage of Power-over-Ethernet (PoE), simplifying installation while saving precious power outlets for other devices which do not support PoE. The Sender and Receiver can be used as KVM extenders in a one-to-one system, or as nodes in a virtual matrix environment where any source can be routed to any or all displays. The Sender is in a 1U tall and half-rack-width enclosure, perfect for rack mounting using the Gefen EXT-RACK-1U-GRY rack tray (sold separately). It can also be surface mounted or be placed on a shelf. The Receiver can be surface-mounted or placed on a shelf. It is also rack-mountable using the rack tray, but features a low-profile enclosure that can fit in tight places when hiding the receiver is not an option. When using a Gefen IR Extender module, this Receiver can be hidden away behind a display or in the equipment closet while still retaining IR access. www.gefen.com

Chief Unleashes New Freestyle Rotation Adapter Chief has just launched its new Freestyle Rotation Adapter, a new accessory that adds display rotation capabilities to the brand's ConnexSys and Fusion series. The Freestyle Rotation Adapter enables designers to generate an extremely wide variety of video wall configurations.

This accessory provides 90 degrees of rotation for infinite orientation possibilities, and can combine with the new Fusion Depth Accessory to bring another level of customization with overlapping displays. www.milestone.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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Aurora Launches World's First AV-over-IP Transceiver With Zero Frame Latency 4K60 Scaling Aurora has launched the IPX-TC2 Series Transceivers – using Aurora's IPBaseT technology, it synergises various IP/AV standards to work together as one, and is the industry’s first 4K2K transceiver with zero compression and latency based on BlueRiver NT platform.

IPX-TC2 supports windowing/multiviewer (up to 128), scaling and 16×15 videowall along with HDMI 2.0 4K60 4:4:4. The IPXTC2 can be set up as either a transmitter (encoder) or receiver (decoder) to make installation, inventory, and troubleshooting easier.

Another industry first is the option slot to add other IP capabilities, like ExtremeUSB (USB 2.0 over IP) or Dante audio, for a more complete, distributed system.

The IPX-TC2 allows for 4K scaling with only 3ms latency, as well as seamless and breakaway switching. Regardless of how the IPX-TC2 is set up, the audio can be de-embedded at any

location, broken away, and/or be sent to or received from a Dante enabled device.

Audio, video, data, and control can be sent securely to one or many units using off-the-shelf 10G Ethernet switches. When the IPX-TC2 is set up to be a transmitter, the 2 HDMI inputs become a source switch and the HDMI output becomes a potential loop out. When set up as a receiver, a user can select the local HDMI inputs or an IP source. Seamless switching of the sources further enhances the presentation. auroramultimedia.com

A winning combination

Avid Pro Tools | S6 and IHSE Draco tera | S6 The Draco tera | S6 KVM switch takes the Avid Pro Tools | S6 control surface to a greater level of performance and capability. Maximizing efficiency, simplifying workflow and increasing flexibility in professional sound studios.

Deluxe Media, Hollywood We can dynamically allocate any system to any room and move between mix stages with minimal setup time. It gives us great flexibility.

Editors can instantly switch between Pro Tools stations with just a single touch, giving them complete control with no distraction. With no transmission delay or image degradation, they see the complete picture.

IHSE GmbH - Headquarters Maybachstrasse 11 88094 Oberteuringen  Germany

IHSE GmbH Asia Pacific Pte Ltd 158 Kallang Way  #07-13A Singapore 349245

Doug Higgins, Director of Audio Services

IHSE USA LLC 1 Corporate Drive Cranbury, NJ 08512  USA avid.ihse.com  info@ihse.com

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SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Barco ClickShare CSE-800 Units Now shipping The CSE-800 is currently the more powerful system in the ClickShare range, offering enhanced security features, more connectivity options and the ability to drive dual 4K displays.

Barcom has announced that they are now shipping the first units of the ClickShare CSE-800, the company's newest addition to the ClickShare range. First launched during this year's Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) in Amsterdam, the CSE800 is designed for large meeting rooms seating 15 people and more.

Barco will showcase the CSE-800 at the upcoming InfoComm exhibition, and is expected to announce firmware updates for all of its ClickShare products, bringing amongst others support for extended desktop on Windows 10 devices.

As of now the CSE-800 is available in Europe, US and Canada, with ongoing certification for other regions and countries. www.barco.com

LynTec Brings Innovative Power Control To The Rack LynTec has recently announced its new Networkable Power Automation Control (NPAC) rack-mounted system, a complete ready-to-install power management solution delivering power control and audio sequencing in a single 2RU unit that can manage up to 80 amps.

As the latest addition to LynTec's leading range of electrical power control solutions, the NPAC series is the company's first rack mount form factor that's pre-terminated for easy installation and provides critical protection and control for a range of applications – the master/remote architecture enables control for up to 10 NPAC units on a single network.

It is also the only solution to sequence on/off complex digital audio systems in easy-to-program extended step rates that guarantee proper component boot-up automatically.

The NPAC series includes two models: 120V or 240V to manage higher voltage loads. It features four 20A circuit inputs in a single 2RU enclosure, saving integrators valuable rack space over 4RU systems and eliminating the need to wire multiple units together. The unit boasts pre-terminated cables that are ready to plug into existing sources, four NEMA 5-20 outlets (6-20 outlets for the 240V model) that allow for easy connection to gear, and an onboard web browser interface for simple programming of the most complex systems.

Key Features: • Controls lighting and AV systems across multiple control zones, and with multiple control protocols (HTTP, Telnet, sACN, DMX) and simple contact closures • Alert notifications via text or email to warn users of voltage anomalies • User can select appropriate over- and under-voltage protection and auto-shutdown for each circuit from the controller's embedded web server • System includes circuit-selectable load-shedding for emergency shutoff • Onboard astronomical timer enables automated operation and helps facilities reduce operating costs for lighting systems, video systems etc The NPAC will begin shipping in June. www.lyntec.com

SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Exclusive Multipoint Skype For Business Connections With AVer’s Next Generation Orbit Series SVC Aver has released the Orbit Series SVC, the company's next generation of videoconferencing systems. Boasting a futuristic design, the Orbit Series features a fluid aesthetic which supports an 18X total zoom lens.

With the Orbit Series integrated exclusive multipoint connection between Skype for Business, H.323, and SIP protocols allows users to easily and reliably connect with co-workers or business partners at their company around the world.

The dual-camera/dual-presentation function also provides users with a better video conferencing experience, and the built-in 32G recording storage capacity allows users to record meetings with ease, as well as upload recordings to cloud storage with iSCSI functionality. www.aver.com

TG 500 FLEXIBLE COMPANION FOR A GREAT PERFORMANCE – PROFESSIONAL WIRELESS SYSTEM

GREAT R E M R O F R E P With its five sets, the wireless system TG 500 is an all-rounder.

Whether for performances on smaller stages, theater productions or speeches, the various sets always ensure perfect performance.

www.beyerdynamic.com

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SOLUTIONS UPDATE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Meyer Sound's LEO Family Grows with LINA and 750-LFC Meyer Sound's LEO Family of linear sound reinforcement systems has been expanded with the addition of the diminutive new LINA very compact linear line array loudspeaker and companion 750-LFC very compact low frequency control element.

Easily the smallest and lightest in the series, LINA and 750-LFC bring the inherent linearity, low distortion and exceptional power-to-size ratio of LEO Family technology to a wider range of applications and venues.

"Following the industry-wide acceptance of LEOPARD, we were asked if we could deliver the same sonic transparency and headroom in a smaller system," says Pablo Espinosa, Meyer Sound's vice president of R&D and chief loudspeaker designer. “Although LINA takes advantage of the existing MINA footprint, the improvements in high-frequency headroom and lower distortion are clearly audible. LINA definitely shows its LEO Family lineage."

In most applications, LINA compact line array loudspeakers will be integrated with the companion 750-LFC low-frequency control element for extending deep bass performance across its operating frequency range of 36 Hz to 125 Hz. The 750-LFC houses a 15-inch, dual voice coil long excursion driver along with a two channel, open loop class D amplifier and signal processing to provide separate, precisely synchronized power to each voice coil. Like its larger siblings, the 900-LFC and 1100LFC, the 750-LFC reproduces low frequencies at high continuous levels with clarity, extremely low distortion, and optimized phase response.

An integral pole mount receptacle pairs with LINA or ULTRASeries loudspeakers, while an optional rigging frame allows flying in LINA arrays without a transition grid.

The self-powered LINA loudspeaker measures only 20.27 inches (515 mm) wide and weighs in at a mere 43 lbs.

(19.5 kg), making it an ideal choice when discreet appearance, portability and hanging weight restrictions are critical considerations. Also, because LINA shares the same structural footprint as Meyer Sound's current MINA line array loudspeakers, owners of MINA systems can add LINA to their existing inventory using the same rigging and mounting hardware.

Mixed systems of MINA and LINA are compatible using the delay integration in Compass control software.

On the inside, LINA has been outfitted with new drivers and an updated amplifier and signal processing package to conform with the LEO Family design philosophy. Compared to MINA, the newly designed class D amplifier affords greater efficiency, and an upgraded power supply enables higher peak output.

The 3-inch HF compression driver incorporates a new magnet structure first used in the LEOPARD line array loudspeaker (LINA's next-larger sibling) for reduced distortion. Lowfrequency distortion from the dual 6.5-inch woofers is further reduced compared to MINA, aided by new internal venting and baffling to optimize performance. On-board signal processing has been upgraded for more power, and it now includes optimized Native Mode -- as first introduced in LEOPARD - that yields excellent system performance with minimal external processing.

The high power-to-size ratio and sleek profile of the LINA compact linear line array systems make them an excellent choice for small theatres, theme parks, houses of worship and portable AV systems.

Configured as single cabinets or short stacks, LINA loudspeakers are ideally suited for use as front fills and under-balcony fills.

LINA compact linear line array loudspeakers and 750-LFC lowfrequency control elements are expected to ship from 1 June, 2017 www.meyersound.com

EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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InfoComm China Boasts Bigger Lineup, New Solutions

2017's InfoComm China was the show's biggest edition yet, with a total visitor count of 32,074 and an increased attendance of 20.3% as compared to the previous year. Of the over 300 companies that participated in the three-day event, 95 were first-time exhibitors.

The nine halls were absolutely packed with exhibitors displaying their latest technologies and solutions to visitors including C-level executives and decision-makers. Some of the showcased solutions that caught our attention included: • d3 Technologies' 2x4 pro, the brand's newest addition to the pro range. The new server features d3's interchangeable Video Format Conversion (VFC) cards, which allow users to drive up to eight outputs as DVI, SDI or two DP1.2 from a single server. The server also features a refined chassis with a new ruggedised VFC backplane that offers stiffness, as well as a dual 10Gbit/s media network and 2TB of ultra-fast solidstate storage.

• JK Screen's new projector screens, the PB-R and HDR-UW1.

Made of HD Flexible Fabric, the PB-R is a bottom retracting motorised screen that can reach up to 350" in size, while the HDR-UW1 is a framed screen made from light-rejecting fabric for more intense brightness – users are also able to choose from five different colours for the screen's frame.

• VTRON's VLED-II series, which makes use of Chip On Board (COB) LED technology.

The LED chips are directly encapsulated on the PCB, which gives it a smoother surface and offers a seamless canvas for a more comfortable viewing experience.

• Christie's five-zone booth, with its 10-metre-long “The Space Between” display, meant to showcase how its Christie Boxer 4K30 3DLP projectors worked with live content managed by Christie Pandoras Box media servers, Pandoras Box Manager and Widget Designer. Another highlight at the booth was a live demonstration of the brand's 1DLP laser phosphor projector, which is currently still in development.

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EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

• Atlona's newly-launched Omnistream, an AV-overIP product family that distributes 4K video, audio, and control over a standard Gigabit network and offers better scalability and cost-efficiency for the performance and dependability of traditional AV distribution.

• Crestron's Mercury Tabletop Conferencing System, an all-inone solution for meeting rooms that includes full open SIP conference phone and built-in occupancy sensor; and the DigitalMedia 4K60 4:4:4 HDR Network AV Encoder/Decoder with Downmixing DM-NVX-351, designed to function as either a transmitter or receiver with the ability to switch between modes programmatically via commands from a Crestron control system.

An audience member reads about FutureCitizen during the event's launch.

Speaking after the launch, IDC Asia Pacific Group Vice President Jason Gorud said: “FutureCitizen is an ecosystem that starts to talk about the interplay between the individual, the data that the individual creates, how that affects the government and the way tech sits within the ecosystem.

We want to be able to give the market a venue not only to display their individual solutions but also to educate industries around how to get ready for the transformation that is coming across the industry. So we are going to be focusing on four specific industries at the event next year, as well as hosting a series of mini-conferences that will look at point solutions like data, like security, like storage, like robotics.”

• Mindstec's display of various products and solutions, including T1V's ThinkHub, a multitouch collaboration software tool that transforms a screen into an interactive canvas.

This year's InfoComm China also set the stage for change, according to InfoComm Asia Executive Director Richard Tan. “This year we're starting to see a lot more of our exhibitors showcase specific applications that are designed for specific industries or sectors, and that's very important. They're pushing the envelope in terms of applications.”

The FutureCitizen B2B show made its debut during the trade show – jointly organised by International Data Corporation (IDC) and InfoComm Asia, FutureCitizen aims to be the platform for technology developers to exchange ideas on how the interconnection of digital technologies and Big Data Analytics could help to create opportunities for businesses and organisations.

FutureCitizen 2018 will be held in April next year in conjunction with InfoComm China, and will gather channels, solution providers and vertical market end-users from all industries to share opportunities in technology's ever-changing landscape.

InfoComm China's learning and knowledge-sharing platform the Summit was also held alongside the exhibition, with 49 sessions that brought together industry professionals, thought leaders, practitioners and researchers to present and discuss ideas and solutions that would address issues and trends impacting business and communities within the AV industry.

Topics discussed included the Internet of Things (IoT), AR/VR and the impact of digitalisation on Pro-AV and experiential communications technologies.

Highlights of the Summit included the inaugural China International Smart Hotel Innovate Conference and Smart City Industry Forum, as well as the return of the Digital Signage Asia Forum.

Back for its second year since its debut in 2016, this year's DSA Forum presented digital signage solutions and addressed issues faced by industry sectors including healthcare, education, retail, entertainment, smart city and transportation.

“We're not looking at digital signage as a device or content, we're looking at how to create, to really use this technology

EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

to change the space that we live in,” said John Wang, Vice Chairman of the Digital Signage Multimedia Alliance Taiwan (DSMA Taiwan). “We're seeing digital signage as a way of changing the world around us. It's not just a screen or a piece of content, it's really how digital technology gets into our lives.

That's what DSA is set out to do – throughout Asia we try to get companies and integrators who are doing digital signage onto this platform where we can exchange information, share knowledge and business opportunities, and through our international relationships help these companies expand their reach to North America, Europe, Australia, Japan, areas like that.”

According to exhibitors, InfoComm China was a chance for them to extend their reach in a growing market, despite the challenges. “The Chinese market has been growing for us, it has allowed us to put more investment into this region. But one of the biggest challenges is communication, so we tried to be global but also local,” said Jeff Meyer, Senior International Sales Director of Atlona.

“The other challenge is that the Chinese government is very supportive of Chinese brands, so we have to be clever and work carefully with our sales staff to try to capture the attention of these integrators despite the fact that our competitors have a slight advantage.”

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Lightware Sale Director Aaron Lange agreed, saying: “Pricing competition and the government proposing using only Chinese brand products – those are obstacles for us.” However, he added that market growth was picking up, which was a good sign for businesses. “There will still be growth for the next few years... I don't see fast rapid crazy growth, but I see for companies that are putting in the efforts and have good smart products, there's still room to grow.”

InfoComm China 2017 may be over, but the 2018 show is already in the works. “A lot of AV technology is going forward, it's getting increasingly embedded and melded with other technologies. We've been trying to trying to push the envelope, to bring in more exhibitors who are at the edge of the boundary or slightly beyond it, and I think we're starting to see a bit more of that, we'll try and bring in more of that,” said Tan. “And for InfoComm China next year and the coming years, that's one of the things that we'll try to do, to try and push the technology envelopes, the boundaries of what this show stands for so that it starts to recognise emerging technologies, disruptive technologies that will come into the entire ecosystem of what the AV industry does, and makes it more complete a show at the end of the day.”

InfoComm China 2018 will be held from 11-13 April next year at the China National Convention Center (CNCC).

(Left to right) DSMA Taiwan Vice Chairman John Wang, DSMA Taiwan Chairman Nick Cheng and IAdea Corporation Marketing Manager Amanda Sung.

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EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

INFOCOMM CHINA

Inaugural FutureCitizen Launched To Open Discussions In AV Industry

The inaugural FutureCitizen exhibition and conference was launched during InfoComm China in a bid to target businesses and organisations eager to tap into potential business opportunities in the convergence and interconnection of today's virtual world.

This comes as Big Data Analytics software investments continue to grow, with an estimated 20% of major retailers expected to use AI in personalising customer brand experiences, and IoT expenditure estimated to reach USD$1.29 trillion by 2020.

Speaking at the launch was Dr. Christopher Holmes, Managing Director for IDC Insights Asia Pacific, who explained the concept behind the initiative.

"FutureCitizen is an ecosystem... that starts to talk about the interplay between the individual, the data what the individual creates; how that affects the industry, how that affects the government, and the way text sits within the ecosystem.

FutureCitizen isn’t about a point solution, or IoT, or big IDC Managing Director data or cloud or smart homes Christopher Holmes spoke at the or smart cities or digital FutureCitizen launch.

transformations. It’s about the interplay of all of that. We want to be able to give the market a venue not only to display their individual solutions, but also to educate industries on how to get ready for the transformation that is happening.”

The B2B show emphasised the importance of businesses embracing the Digital Twin concept, which uses the digital representation of a person to continuously evolve the model of a marketplace as it is constantly fed data. This model then becomes a testbed for businesses and organisations to gauge the impact of their product or service and determine the optimal outcome for a process, which can then be extended to the actual person.

The Digital Twin concept manifests in Virtual Singapore project, an ongoing project championed by Singapore's National Research Foundation (NRF), Prime Minister’s Office, the FutureCitizen was launched to help Singapore Land Authority businesses and organisations tap into (SLA) and the Government potential business opportunities.

Technology Agency of Singapore (GovTech).

Virtual Singapore is a 3D city model and collaborative data platform that includes semantic 3D modelling, which comprises

EXHIBITION REVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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According to the NRF, Virtual Singapore will be developed based on geometric and image data collected from various public agencies, and will integrate different data sources to describe the city with the necessary dynamic data ontology.

When completed, the project is to be intended for use by the public, private, people and research sectors.

Adding on, Richard Tan, Executive Director of InfoComm Asia comments: “I think the biggest challenge is getting the right audience for the show. All these technologies are very pervasive, meaning that you find them being applied to practically every industry... How do we bring all these industries, and we are talking about professional users, professional technology managers, in each and every one of these industries together within three days? That's the key challenge.”

The FutureCitizen initiative also featured technology and solution providers that would anticipate this new marketplace and help businesses stay ahead of their customers by maximising customer experiences and future-proof their enterprise. Known as innovation-enablers, they included artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, IoT technology and products, wearable technology and smart building.

“That's the reason why we decided for FutureCitizen to be co-located with InfoComm China, because InfoComm China faced exactly the same challenges 10 years ago. we needed to bring not just the AV channel, but also the IT channel and then the end-users from across all the industries because without these key stakeholders coming together, the picture will never be complete.

According to Jason Gorud, Group Vice President at IDC Asia Pacific, the launch of FutureCitizen aimed to introduce a platform that would stimulate discussion among industry stakeholders about “how tech sits within the ecosystem”.

This is a ready platform for FutureCitizen – without this show (InfoComm China), we start with a blank sheet of paper. But to have it co-located within the show already brings the 30,000 people who are right for FutureCitizen.”

However, the introduction and implementation of FutureCitizen will not be without challenges.

But why introduce the concept of FutureCitizen now?

According to Tan, there has never been a better time.

“I feel one of the challenges is that if we are already digital native(s), that makes it easy. People get and understand it but I think the challenge is the transformation. In the traditional industry or with people that are not born in the digital environment, they need to go through the transformation, which is painful and is really scary. One of the objectives in this forum is that we want to help the traditional industry, or everybody who is not born in the digital native era so that they can go through this transformation.” says Kitty Fok, Managing Director of IDC China.

“AV doesn't exist alone, it has to exist within a larger ecosystem and just by confining ourselves to talking about AV technology is not enough. But as a show, as an exhibition, we are confined by those boundaries – every exhibitor here is displaying technologies that are only concerned with AV.

detailed information such as texture and the material representation of geometrical objects.

So the only way we can push that boundary to address the ecosystem that the AV industry integrates with is to address it in forums like these - it's to allow us to talk about AV technology within the context of the larger ecosystem.” www.futurecitizenshow.com

(Left to right) Christopher Holmes, Jason Gorud, Kitty Fok and Richard Tan strike a pose with a FutureCitizen poster.

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TECH TALK Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Video: Network and Bandwidth Considerations Not that long ago, in the spare room of a shared house in North London, a dear friend (to this day, the IT expert in my social circle) slotted a 56K modem into my DIY tower PC, installed the relevant Windows 95 drivers from the accompanying CD-ROM, and taught me how to dial to the internet. That day, my life was irreversibly transformed.

One of the many consequences of that moment is my appreciation for bandwidth. The excitement of having access to the unparalleled resources afforded by the internet was only tempered by the seemingly never-ending waiting for pages to download. How things have changed. In the time it took for a just a few of my hairs to turn silver, my internet connection’s bandwidth has multiplied to almost unrecognisable, but still occasionally frustrating, levels.

A similar meteoric rise in bandwidth has been experienced in the world of LANs and WANs. Again, I don’t have to go back too far in time to remember installing 10Mbps PCI Ethernet cards on workstations, reserving the faster and more expensive 100Mbps cards for servers. 1Gb ports are now the norm even on entry-level laptops, while professional Ethernet devices include 10Gb, 40Gb, or even 100Gb interfaces.

What Exactly IS Bandwidth?

Indeed, what is bandwidth exactly? For starters, it is not a measure of speed, as unfortunately so often it is referred as. When in the world of networks, bandwidth describes the capacity of a given link, a port, a segment, or the network as a whole, to transfer data.

Network bandwidth is most often expressed in bits per second (bps), using the Mega or Giga prefixes to avoid filling pages and pages with zeroes. A 100Mbps link is a link that can (in

theory) transmit 100,000,000 bits in one second. We call a port 10Gb when it can (potentially) deliver 10,000,000,000 bits per second. See what I mean about the zeros? Also, note the use of the qualifiers ‘potentially’ and ‘in theory.’ Network throughput can be degraded by other factors, resulting in jitter, packet loss, and latency amongst them.

Identifying and Managing the Need Unsurprisingly enough, the huge increase in the capacity of networks is matched by the mammoth demands of present-day AV content. Effective distribution and management of content in real-time is, therefore, a huge part of our job. Examples of the required bandwidth to transmit video at various resolutions are provided in the accompanying graphic, and it is easy to see how things can quickly become unmanageable. Organizing and managing bandwidth is now a task every AV designer and programmer should be familiar with, and one that starts from the inception of the system. There are many considerations to be taken, and it is often a case of matching the various elements until identifying the right combination. Following are a few tips that have helped me during this process: Need vs. Cool-to-Have: Perhaps one of the first steps in the process is to consider the needs of the customer with “realistic” hat on. Yes, modern video content with wide colour gamut, high dynamic range, fabulously high resolution, and dizzying frame rates require a lot of bandwidth. But, do we need all of it? And more importantly, will the user – the consumer of the final product – benefit? Or are we asking the customer to pay for features that, due to practical factors, they will not notice the benefit of or be able to enjoy?

Depending upon the maximum resolution of the viewing displays and the viewer’s distance to the screens, the highest resolution may not be what is best. There’s little sense in sending 4K video to screens that can only support 1920x1080 (HD) maximum resolutions; and if the viewers are going to be so far away from the screens that they will not be able to discern the higher resolution, why spend resources in that?

TECH TALK Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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OPTIMAL VIEWING DISTANCE

OPTIMAL VIEWING DISTANCE

SCREEN HEIGHT

SCREEN HEIGHT

1.5 TIMES

4K

Select the Best Frame Rates: Reducing frame rates is typically considered an area that is off limits, with people usually crying foul whenever the notion is mentioned. And while I agree with the concept, when it comes to motion images (e.g. videos, films, live broadcast), static documents or presentations often allow for a reduction in the frame rate without any – or very little – discernible side effects. Very considerable bandwidth savings can be achieved here.

Shed Some Weight: My previous article on video technologies covered compression, and this can be a very powerful weapon in the quest for delivering content with the least noticeable decrease in quality through the efficient use of resources. As with everything else, finding the right balance is key. There can be too much of a good thing.

That Bottleneck: When managing network capacity, the overall network must be considered, not just individual links.

Bottlenecks can occur when multiple streams are forced down a single path (an uplink, for example), exceeding the overall capacity of that link. Good network design is the strongest tool to prevent this, so mapping out customer needs (both current and future) well in advance will help avoid disappointment later.

Look Ahead: Systems evolve, needs change, and customers change their mind (I know, I was shocked too). The area of the

3 TIMES

FULL HD

building that was meant to be a sparse hub of relaxation is next year’s hottest spot. Is the system built in such a way that making a few configurations changes, perhaps updating a few items here and there, allow for the new vision to be realised?

Or are we building something that needs to be torn down completely just to accommodate a few changes? Having a flexible bandwidth management strategy has always proved beneficial all round. One-trick ponies rarely afford future proofing.

There’s little doubt that using networks to distribute AV content and control data can offer massive benefits over point-to-point, single purpose, industry-specific technologies.

Understanding the way networks work and including that knowledge at the core of the AV system’s design leads to making intelligent decisions, avoid problems down the line, and develop excellent solutions that meet and surpass expectations. And who would want it any other way?

Martin Bonsoir is the EMEIA Applications Engineering Manager, overseeing operations in Europe, Middle East, India, and Africa. With more than 23 years of industry experience, Martin’s passion for people and all things audiovisual continue to add richness and insight to his work every day.

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SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Audio-Visual Systems In Hospitality Environment

By Ian D.Harris, C.Eng, BSc.Eng (Hons), MIET, CTS-D, President and Principal Consultant, ihD Ltd

Designing a Hotel Working as Technology Consultant on currently more than 80 hotels across Asia, ihD is intimately involved in the AudioVisual design, as well as IT&T, ELV and Acoustics for many new-build as well as renovation projects. Since we work with all of the five-star, as well as most 4-star Hotel Groups, we have the opportunity to apply new technologies, AND to research upcoming ones which look to be relevant to our clients.

Today, we will look at the factors leading to selection of the Audio-Visual Systems, and therefore equipment, in a typical Hotel design project. The first thing to appreciate is that a Hotel is a very complex project, involving very many design parties – usually independent Consultants with no vested interest in the products that they are specifying – and the timing for a new-build hotel from kick-off to opening varies from around 2 or 3 years to 5 to 6 years.

storage and playback software, intelligently selecting music with tempo and mood to suit the venue and time of day. Many F&B (Food & Beverage/Restaurant/Bar) areas will be highlyreverberant, meaning that as the space fills with guests, there will be a tremendous increase in ambient noise level, drowning out the music. And so ANC (Ambient Noise Cancellation) and other digital signal processing is heavily used.

DSS: Digital Signage System, for guest information in entry areas, outside meeting rooms and ballroom sections, and in the elevators.

Sheraton Lanfang Ballroom

Four Seasons Hotel, Guangzhou in China, 101-stories high

In Asia, each Hotel is designed from scratch, and is almost always a poured-concrete structure, for the dominant highrise type, rising up from multiple basements containing car parking and extensive BOH (Back of House) offices, workshops, laundries, and other departments, through the Podium, with Lobby, restaurants, Ballrooms, Health Club, to the main tower with the guestrooms and select floors for bars, executive lounge and so on. The Resort-style is similar in the end, just laid out sideways instead of upwards.

Galaxy Casino in Macau, here the two towers contain 3 hotels, the Galaxy, Okura, and Banyan Tree

Park Hyatt in Goa, India

Audio-Visual Systems in the Hotel The Audio-Visual systems within the Hotel are primarily: BGM: Background Music System, with on-property music

Citizen M Guest iPad

Presentation and Collaboration Systems, ranging from Huddle spaces with small flat panel displays, to full Boardrooms with soft-and hard-CODEC, USB-C distribution, etc, to Ballrooms with 8metre-wide motorised screens and projectors, or LED displays. Audio forms an important part of these spaces too, with especially the Ballroom offering challenges in microphone reception and management, as well as tending to be reverberant in nature, fighting against speech-intelligibility.

Guestroom Systems, incorporating Hospitality TV, BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) wireless connectivity, as well as Guestroom control of the Air Conditioning, Drapes, Lights, TV etc. Not forgetting seemingly mundane, but highly valuable multiple Device-charging facilities, presently incorporating QuickCharge-enabled USB outlets.

The Design Process Technically-demanding already in a building with so many areas, finishes, and needs, the design process is far more than measuring ceiling heights & viewing distances, calculating loudspeaker spacings & power, and display sizes, and then drawing out the schematics. The Design Team, particularly the Architect, Interior Designer, AV, MEP (Mechanical & Electrical), Lighting, IT&T, Security, and Structural Consultants need to all heavily co-ordinate their needs. In truth, “co-ordination” often boils down to “negotiation”, the architect seeking very clean empty ceilings and beautiful finishes, while the Technical Consultants need real air-vents, sprinkler heads, multiple lighting fixtures, loudspeakers large enough to have some lowfrequency content.

SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

The Loudspeaker selected to reproduce 60Hz to 18KHz

The ceiling void, just 150mm

Agreeing the layout of all of these, as well as the size, is complicated and demanding. Say, we calculate a 4-metre spacing for the loudspeakers in a particular area, but the lights are on a 3-metre grid, and the sprinklers on a 5-metre grid. If the Team cannot find a win-win compromise without sacrificing performance, then the finished ceiling will look un-designed and untidy, and yet each Consultant is working within governmental regulations, as well as technical simulation and calculation to achieve proper performance. The process tends to be controlled by the architect, and the best solutions emerge when the architect bends, and adjusts their design to accommodate these needs. Some architects will even create visual details to help blend the equipment in.

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The resulting loudspeaker selection

ceilings, meaning that the loudspeakers had to be relocated to the walls, but also many of these had to change to highend HiFi loudspeakers instead of commercial ceiling ones, for aesthetic reasons.

One more factor in product-selection is time. What was current 4 years ago during the start of a project, is often already legacy or even obsolete by the time the project is under construction.

It requires alertness and a strategy within the tendering and contract-award, to build in safety checks for this, giving the chance to modify the specification late on. Also, try coordinating a guestroom TV cabinet for neat integration of a Soundbar, when that Soundbar will certainly not exist by the time the project is awarded to the AV Contractor!

Space is at a premium, and the large floor areas mean also large-sized air-conditioning ducts within the ceilings, in order to reach the far-away parts of the hotel. And so another huge restriction on the design, steering loudspeaker-selection, is ceiling void/physical headroom, as in the example pictured above.

The 2-4 years design process for a Hotel sees a lot of evolution of the design, restaurants changing from French to Italian, meeting rooms doubling in size, sometimes the architect changing. All of these things lead to ongoing changes to the layouts, colour schemes, and AV equipment specified. In a recent case for us, a large Hong Kong hotel project, already tendered and under construction, saw the Interior Designer suddenly require more than 10 areas of the hotel have “clean”

Example in Makati Shangri-La, where we had to integrate 17,000 lumen projectors into a “soft” refurbishment of the Ballroom, basically cutting out the contoured ceiling sections and building up the Projector Lift closer panels, also allowing servicing 8metres below.

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SPECIAL FEATURE Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

The “unseen” AV equipment, ie power amplifiers, DSP, Video transmission/processing system, and so on, are unaffected by the above volatility, except for the Time element. The advent of AVB-transmission of Video, and ability of Edge Switches made by the manufacturers actually used by the IT&T System, suddenly allows AVB to be implemented, potentially saving the Owner money, as well as improving the System operation.

But branding etc, is firstly down to the AV Consultant to choose, and then within the Tender process, finally awarded according to the selected Contractor, if his alternative offering is conformant with the technical specifications, is robust and reliable, and is properly-supported in the region.

ROI Return on Investment is a difficult thing to measure in Hotel space, at least, outside of the Meeting and Ballroom space.

Does a Background Music System pay for itself after a while?

Not directly, but if it lends ambience and creates an appealing environment to dine in, then it IS indirectly generating ROI. A Ballroom is a magnified version of this – while the hotel can charge for use of the projector etc, problems arise as guests tend to decline this, and bring along a massively-undersized one from their office or home, either spoiling the intended presentation, or often, forcing the hotel to step in and rescue them. But the fact of selling the Ballroom for functions, increases guestroom sales and F&B spend, again indirectly helping the ROI. A particularly good example presently is the growing use of LED Display walls. Obvious of course, is to avoid the shadows and dazzling that comes with projection, as well as being high-contrast and brightness. But the investment is very high compared to projection, and the LED display is very black when not in use, as compared to the extremely beautiful finishes of the Asia Ballroom.

Influence Of The System Integrator It is difficult for the AV System Integrator to influence the AV solution within the main hotel, and also guestroom, due to the long design and co-ordination processes described herein. Too often, an SI might agree on-site to a change-request by the site ID co-ordinator, both of them unknowingly undoing months of careful design and co-ordination.

The biggest and most important role and effect on the project by the SI is not for equipment-specification, but for HIGHQUALITY build and accurate as-built documentation. We work win-win for this, encouraging our awarded Contractors to follow our build standards, and thus create reliable and longlasting 24x7x365x10 Systems. Most AV Systems will operate for ten years without being turned off (except projectors and meeting room/Ballroom support systems). www.ihd-hk.com

Well-laid-out and labelled Equipment Racks, with properly-dressed and labelled cables all helps for smooth operation and simplified maintenance, as well as mechanically-supporting the cabling, essential for reliable operation over the years

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Mindstec Continues With Its Momentum SI Asia had interviewed Syed Abdul Wahab, CEO, Mindstec when the company first set foot in Asia. This interview is a follow up of what has been happening with Mindstec since then.

SI Asia: To start off, we would like to know how the journey has been for you in Asia.

WAHAB: We started in November of 2015, our initial operation started in Singapore followed by Hong Kong and China. Recently we have expanded into Korea and Taiwan as well. The market has adapted to our model of business, which is distribution with a difference. Normally the term distributor is synonymous with Box Selling, what we do differently is value addition by combining products from various brands we represent and create solutions for users based on how we perceive them to use technology in their day to day environment. And the key factor is support and service.

SI Asia: What about any Experience Centres?

WAHAB: We have full fledged experience centres now in Beijing, Singapore and Hong Kong. Our core concept behind setting up these experience centres was to help our Channel partners sell our products and solutions, as you know, many integrators are hesitant in investing in demo units and our sales centres help them demonstrate the products to their clients.

We have also had consultants who have got their end user clients to these centres to show the working solution.

SI Asia: What new brands have been taken on board for representation?

WAHAB: In the last few months we have added new products in the collaboration space from T1V and controls systems from RTI.

SI Asia: What has been the business climate for Mindstec in Asia?

WAHAB: For us the Asian market is very important because as you know the history of Mindstec is that we came from the Middle East, and the business environment in the Middle East has its ups and downs due to oil prices and certain times projects get delayed due to funding from government.

Over the last year and half we have seen lot of potential in Philippines, Indonesia and Vietnam. We are quite optimistic about the Asean markets for near future

SI Asia: Has the company become more recognisable in Asia?

WAHAB: I think so. From the time we started, just to give an example, we have nearly 50 dealers out of Singapore who buy products from us. As a new company coming in to Singapore to set up, and to within less than a year have that kind of a dealer base who are buying from us, I think we have proved to

the market that we are here for the long term, and people can come to us for support and products. And dealers have realized that we are here to support them not to compete with them.

SI Asia: What's the forecast in terms of business for Mindstec in Asia? Any opportunities or challenges?

WAHAB: Business is nothing but challenges every day, the main thing is to have a good team of people who are able to meet those challenges. We have been able to establish dealer base across Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia and now we are focusing on other countries in the region as second phase of dealer base expansion. Our diverse product line up gives us a good chance to break into new markets. We are concentrating and focusing on collaboration technologies which we feel are the future and are quite optimistic that we will succeed in this region. The collaborative and interactive technologies have still not picked up compared to the Europe or US markets.

SI Asia: Why is that?

WAHAB: I think it's because of education of the clients, of the dealers on what new technologies are available. Most of the dealers and system integrators are too busy with their day to day business and with tough competition most of them are going by standard tenders, they just want to bid, get a job and implement it.

Since we want to focus and showcase new technologies and solutions we have now implemented an end user engagement strategy whereby we are working with consultants and End user clients to promote, get our solutions approved and then pass the clients to our loyal channel base to sell to them. So we are trying to do a little more work for the integrators than we would normally do. (laughs).

SI Asia: Anything else you would like to add?

WAHAB: As Mindstec today, we are growing rapidly looking at new markets to do business in. We have expanded this month into Latin America with our first operation out of Brazil with a joint Venture with a local Distribution company with 20 years local experience. We are showcasing our products and solutions at InfoComm Brazil, and hope to in the next few months to be able to expand into other nearby countries in Latin America. www.mindstec.com

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INTERVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

RTI: Sustainable Growth With An Eye On Commercial Sector

by Thomas Richard Prakasam

(L-R) RTI CEO, Edward McConaghay with Syed Abdul Wahab of Mindstec, Mike Everett, Robert Lawton and Gregory Revell of RTI James Lim of Mindstec

I am at the Pan Pacific Orchard Hotel to meet with the newly minted CEO of Remote Technologies Incorporated, W. Edward McConaghay together with Mike Everett, VP of Global Sales, Robert Lawton, Director of Product Management and Greg Revell, Director of International Business - Asia Pacific. They are on a tour around the region that kicked off in Australia with a visit to Singapore, then to China for the InfoComm China exhibition and onwards to Hong Kong and Taiwan where their manufacturing plant is based. It was an opportunity for SI Asia to get a view from the CEO and his team about where RTI is heading.

“I was given the opportunity to join a company that has a good team, great products and international presence with financials in good shape. I liked it and felt that I will be able to contribute to the company’s future growth,” said Ed McConaghay.

W. Edward McConaghay, was appointed as CEO of Remote Technologies Incorporated (RTI), in late January 2017. Mr McConaghay brings with him an experience of more than 22 years supporting businesses ranging from start-ups to middle market companies, providing leadership and direction for business transitions, planning and implementing growth strategies, and developing technology products. Ed, held executive leadership positions in a number of companies thus providing him with interesting insight about market share and growth.

The company has a strong network of distributors and integrators, supported with strong products that make them one of the key solutions providers in the residential market.

RTI’s Residential Stronghold RTI is an established controls manufacturer in the Residential segment. A major part of their 25 years of existence has been in that segment and it continues to be a key part of their business plan. “We hope to be the platform of choice in the residential segment,” states Ed.

I asked Ed about the Internet of Things (IoT) and the possible impact of non-traditional AV companies making their presence in the residential control space such as Google.

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"The big boys have been grabbing mind share where IoT is concerned. My feeling is that, although it all sounds great, the vast array of products and communications methods available today limits their ability to create a seamless experience for customers in the immediate future."

“The big boys have been grabbing mind share where IoT is concerned. My feeling is that, although it all sounds great, the vast array of products and communications methods available today limits their ability to create a seamless experience for customers in the immediate future. RTI as a company is in a position today to offer a centralized control solution with the technology to tie-in all of the devices in a home or business setting. This is where our SIs bring in their expertise, to leverage the power of our systems and ensure a simple and intuitive control experience for their clients. The speed and complexity of IoT is not to be underestimated and we feel RTI is in a very good position to offer that seamless experience in the IoT era.”

RTI in Asia “We are certainly very pleased with our presence in Asia and the market opportunity is getting even better. We are hopeful for the future of our business in this region,” said Ed. “We plan to add more RTI reps in the region, increase training capabilities, localize the website and hire more people in our training and marketing department, as we gear up to meet growing demands,” reiterated Mike Everett.

“We would also like to highlight that our partners also handle service and technical support for their clients and we ensure that we get them the support they need. We have also identified processes to make the support even better and that is being rolled out,” adds Ed.

In fact, their distributor for South-East Asia and India, Mindstec Asia is setting up RTI training centres across Asia, including in Singapore, Beijing and Hong Kong to train distributors and System Integrators in the region.

Moving Into The Commercial Space “We are not new to the commercial space and have designed solutions that will continue to help us grow in that area.

As a result, our integrators are increasingly going into the commercial space with RTI and we are seeing some amazing projects,” highlights Ed. “However, we understand that commercial sectors need different types of communications and different types of support. On the technology aspect, there is no issue. So, we are listening to our partners to provide the proper value-add.”

“In brief, we will continue to support our residential segment while we expand our support for the commercial space.”

Grabbing Mindshare “When it comes to Home and Commercial Control – we want to be the platform of choice. That is the goal. We are looking for sustainable growth by providing solid support for our partners, plug gaps if there are any, have more experience centers and offer localization,” comments Ed. “We are a global control company and what we are doing is a broader reflection of who we are.”

“We continue to listen to the market very closely with the intention of reacting quickly and be up-to-date in terms of our solutions and all other peripheral support and that is important in our push to be the platform of choice,” adds Robert Lawton.

“Adaptable, Flexible and Changeable and still maintaining our core qualities, that is reliability and offering a seamless experience. We will continue to identify what we can do to improve and find the right solutions. We already have a great team in place and a vision to bring the company forward,” concludes Edward McConaghay. www.rticorp.com

Mike Everett presenting at InfoComm

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INTERVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Switching In To Catalyze Growth Formula AV Control Solutions Major Aurora Multimedia Gets Aggressive In India

Indian AV industry has long been a sort of a cynosure of global AV players’ eyes for some time now. The excitement is exemplified, among others, by some major initiatives by manufacturers setting up not only direct operations in the country but also setting up exclusive Experience Centre to augment the business parametric. Latest to join the league is American AV control solutions major Aurora Multimedia who began their direct India operations from Bengaluru recently.

SIA talks to Nataraju Upputuri, who is heading the India Operations as Director, Aurora India, to know more about the company’s plans and vision for the country. Excerpts:

SI Asia: Tell us about Aurora Multimedia…its purpose, products, and market spread…

NATARAJU: Aurora Multimedia Corporation is a leading innovator and global provider of state-of-the-art IP Control Systems and HD video distribution solutions. Founded in 1998, Aurora Multimedia provides solutions that surpass typical specifications and features. Starting with the introduction of the industry’s first non-proprietary web-standards-based IP Control Systems and Touch Panels, through today’s advanced HDBaseT and IP video distribution solutions, Aurora Multimedia has evolved into a dominant force in the AV industry. Advanced audio/video processors with scaling, multi-image rotation and dual/quad display processing add to the highly-adaptive, diversified product line. The company solutions address a variety of segments that include government, education, security, hospitality, corporate and houses of worship.

Geographically, Aurora has successfully marked its presence in every major market around the globe. The company is committed to provide direct sales and technical support to all its stakeholders- dealers, partners, consultants and End Users through its offices in Canada in North America, Columbia in South America, Italy, Norway and Poland in Europe, China, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand in Asia-Pacific, and, of course, India & Middle East.

SI Asia: What inspired Aurora Multimedia to seek direct entry into Indian market?

NATARAJU: India is perhaps the most fascinating and dynamic country in the world today and the current expansion will allow us a unique access to this fast growing AV market in

India. While we focus all around, Indian AV market cannot be ignored. It’s a country with tenth largest economy by nominal GDP, and third largest by purchasing power parity on global front. The total size of India's market, its young population and increasing integration into the global economy, make it a key consideration for a global enterprise like Aurora Multimedia looking to further growth opportunities.

Indian AV market is also taken to be the fastest growing in the AsiaPacific region- so, it is quite but natural that we would want to take part in this exciting growth process, and contribute to our global foot print.

SI Asia: What products and solutions does Aurora Multimedia intend to bring to India?

NATARAJU: As explained above Aurora Multimedia develops and manufactures IP-based control systems and touch panels.

As part of that, the company brings to market a whole big basket of solutions that comprise audio processors, analog/ digital tuners, cart cages and input/output cards; multimedia PCs, VGA switchers, video processors and walls, voice-lifts, and accessories; IP button and touch screen interfaces; IP control port expansions, processors, as well as related software; and HDMI/DVI converters, extenders, matrixes, and splitters.

In addition to that, we would also bring to market advanced AV processors with scaling, multi-image rotation, and dual/quad display processing only add to our highly adaptive, diversified product line.

Aurora Multimedia has recently introduced a new technological first 4K60Hz 4:4:4 AV over IP signal transceiver, utilizing Aurora’s IPBaseT technology. This technology is capable of changing the topology of the very AV communications due to its unique strengths to resolve all existing issues with reliability, serviceability, scalability, capability, and inventory as well.

The IPX-TC2 Series is the world’s first 10Gbps IPBaseT transceiver capable of 4K60Hz 4:4:4 with extremely low 1.3:1 real time compression and zero frame latency. The system includes scaling, windowing, and video wall modes up to 16×16. That it is offered both in copper and fiber, the flexibilities are immense.

The strengths of the solution is such that it combines a variety of 4K IP technologies and features under one unified protocol using a simplified topology. Uncompressed video with zerolatency (4K30Hz 4:4:4); visually lossless video with low latency (4K60Hz 4:4:4 with 100us latency); seamless switching, videowall and multi-viewer modes; digital audio; USB 2.0 (480Mbps); Dante option; 1Gbps Ethernet; and control are some of the core capabilities of this IPBaseT. Utilizing the bandwidth of a standard 10Gbps copper or fiber (IPX Series), the IPBaseT supports large scalable audio/video matrixing. More, it does so even as it seeks

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that are not offered by the competition, it clearly stands to lead Aurora’s aggression into the market.

SI Asia: How does it help build market for Aurora?

to replace a multitude of technologies and products with a ‘single-box’ distributed platform.

So, it’s a whole big basket of refreshingly new solutions with revolutionary features that stand to redefine the way AV solutions are designed, integrated and experienced.

SI Asia: Vertical wise, Aurora appears to be everywhere. Horizontally, what segments does it address?

NATARAJU: Aurora brings a range of high-end/premium products but at a price affordable by large sections of market.

So, we hope the solutions will find a wide acceptance from across the market strata segments.

SI Asia: What vertical market does Aurora Multimedia find most exciting in India today?

NATARAJU: With rapid economic growth and development happening in India, we see the demand for Aurora solutions growing steadily in India- particularly in Education, Government, Hospitality, and Residential markets appear to be very promising.

Solutions-wise, we see great opportunities for the VLX series and IPX series, streaming solutions and distribution over IP as our major growth areas.

SI Asia: What vertical is most challenging? Why? NATARAJU: Undoubtedly, the Government segment is the most challenging due to the complexities in the system. But we see a very positive growth in that area too. A lot of projects are in the pipeline coming from the Government segment, giving us some very bright prospects. With the e-Governance initiatives being implemented by the Central, and various State governments in the country with AV and Video distribution as the basic communication requirement, we see a huge market out there beckoning us in AV control solutions.

SI Asia: Could you tell us about a product/ solution or two that are unique to Aurora, and the competition doesn’t have?

NATARAJU: Clearly, it would be the IPX series – the world’s first 10Gbps IPBaseT transceiver capable of 4K60Hz 4:4:4 with extremely low 1.3:1 real time compression and zero frame latency. Because of its immense capabilities and advantages

NATARAJU: Intelligent enterprises today, focus on achieving higher efficiencies by increasing productivity and streamlining operations. For them to be able to achieve that goal, they all need a premium, and technologically superior brand that brings them cost-effective ways of system performance.

Here is where Aurora Multimedia’s role becomes very critical in that the company offers exactly the set of solutions that meet today’s customer needs both in costs and cutting-edge technology matters. The offerings are both competitive and innovative like the IPX Series.

More, they bring a rare ease of installation for the integrators with a network switch and use of Corporate LAN, rather than building a parallel infrastructure for AV with proprietary cabling. With Aurora switching solution in place, integrators no longer need high-end Matrix Switchers; they can get rid of all the high funda stuff; replace it with IPBaseT Transceivers, and use the Multicast LAN Network Switch to a whole new experience of ease.

All that, we hope, will help us build the market thick and fast.

SI Asia: How do you intend to promote the brand penetration into the market?

NATARAJU: For the next few months, we will aggressively focus on spreading awareness across the market about Aurora Multimedia solutions and its advantages in costs and competence. The initiatives would include exclusive training and exposure programmes for our Partners, and also select End Users. A very important part of the programming is building our own exclusive Experience Centre here in our Bangalore headquarter, and inviting our partners and potential customers to experience Aurora solutions live, first hand.

In addition, we have already mapped an extensive branding and marketing campaign with a 360° approach that includes media campaigns and exhibitions. As part of this ‘go-tomarket’ strategy, we have been conducting product demos to the dealers, partners, and End Users. We have been getting very encouraging response as well.

SI Asia: What’s your immediate priority?

NATARAJU: Our first and foremost priority is to build our team for both sales and engineering support. Like I said, we have some very unique products that are above the market competition; we intend to introduce Indian industry to those solutions that have already made their big mark on the international markets. These unique and industry leading solutions when experienced in our Experience Centre here in Bengaluru, would present an exciting opportunity for Indian AV users to excel in innovation and design expertise. www.aurora-in.com

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INTERVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Celebrating 45 Years of Mounting Excellence

B-Tech, the Brit grit of mounting solutions

The global audio-visual industry may be a hot space for many a product or solution for their aural or visual appeal, by generic consideration. However, there is also a segment in the space – the Mounts segment – that is equally, if not more, important as the visible fancied AV devices for the simple reason that they provide the ‘mainstay’ for those AV systems, irrespective of size and shape.

British Mounting solutions major B-Tech is an exemplification of entrepreneurship and expertise for excellence. On the occasion of the company’s celebrating its 45th Anniversary this year, SIA interacted with the company Managing Director Bennett Matthew, to know what the company is mounting for the current and future. Excerpts:

Bennett Matthew, Managing Director of B-Tech AV Mounts, seen in the background of New stand at Northampton Saints Rugby Football Club where B-Tech recently supplied brackets

SI ASIA: Tell us about B-Tech AV Mounts- its genesis, evolution through the decades and current geographical spread.

SI ASIA: Forty five years of business existence…Could you tell us about the most fulfilling period during this journey?

MATTHEW: Armed with £500 and a van, my father set up the company in 1972, as a supplier of generic audio video accessories to the retail trade in London. Our first ever bracket was the BT1 Tilt and Swivel Loudspeaker Mount which was launched in 1979. Over the next decade a number of additional loudspeaker mounts were introduced into the range, later followed by CRT television mounts, all designed and manufactured in the UK. By the end of the 90’s, Plasma screens were entering the market and with B-Tech’s experience designing mounting solutions, we were in prime position to benefit from this revolution in viewing technology. Throughout the 2000’s, our in-house designed mounting range continued to expand to cover the professional AV market as well as the retail consumer market, which B-Tech was very strong in.

In order to keep up with demand and cost pressures, in 2002, we set up our operations in Hong Kong to oversee and manage the transfer of production from the UK to the Far East. One major benefit of this was that it allowed B-Tech to sell direct from the factory to the four corners of the globe. I had also spent a lot of time during the late ’90s on the export side of the business to expand B-Tech across Europe. This, combined with the shift in production to Asia meant B-Tech had evolved into a truly International company.

As of 2017, The B-Tech International Group consists of eight companies around the world, located in the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific. Additionally, thanks to B-Tech’s industry recognised professional range, B-Tech sold its solutions to 49 different countries directly and a further 15 through distribution in the past 12 months.

MATTHEW: The progression from a small UK company to an International business has been hugely fulfilling. Setting up new companies and seeing the subsequent success in new territories continues to bring a feeling of satisfaction and immense pride in our achievements.

A specific product range that we are immensely proud of is our System X Range which was launched almost two years ago as a ‘one kit’ solution which could fulfill a multitude of different mounting requirements. Throughout 2016 and 2017 the range received a lot of recognition, with multiple award nominations and a highly commended award at the 2016 AV Awards.

SI ASIA: What was the most challenging time? Of what kind?

MATTHEW: The financial crisis from 2008 to 2010 was a particularly challenging time for many UK businesses and B-Tech definitely felt the effects of it during that period.

Thankfully, we were able to emerge from that period as a much stronger business and have seen tremendous growth ever since.

SI ASIA: What exactly is B-Tech's core expertise/competence?

MATTHEW: Our professional mounting products now make up the largest and most significant part of our product range. The key to their popularity is the user-friendly features designed to save installers both time and money. Modularity is another important aspect- most B-Tech products can be fitted to other B-Tech products; like a giant Meccano or Lego set… everything works with everything else. This means there is no installation challenge which can’t be met with a B-Tech solution. Pop-out mechanisms and micro-adjustment are now included on many different products to make installation and servicing easy

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for end-users and trained professional alike. We consider B-Tech products to be of a premium quality at a price point that won’t break the bank, giving everyone access to a quality mounting solution with features usually only found on the most expensive products.

of any new equipment likely to be released in the near-future.

We’re constantly working with hardware manufacturers as well as our customers to make sure the products are always designed to cover all eventualities.

SI ASIA: Among that wide basket of solutions, what is the most popular/dominant product line/model?

SI ASIA: Product customization is said to be one big aspect. How intense does it characterize B-Tech? Some demonstrable cases to speak?

MATTHEW: In recent years, the area which has seen the largest growth and is now our most popular group of solutions are our video wall and digital signage mounts. Video wall mounts, in particular, are core products for us now.

Our BT77 Side-Clamping Loudspeaker Mount is also worthy of a mention. Year-on-year, this model has consistently sold in thousands, and continues to be one of our best sellers. This bracket has now been in the range for almost two decades, which shows how long a product can last if designed well.

SI ASIA: Vertical-wise, which segment does B-Tech have its biggest stake in? and why?

MATTHEW: We design our products to be as universal as possible and as mentioned previously, our different solutions all work in conjunction with one another. This makes it very easy to create entirely customized solutions from parts that already exist on the shelf. We do, of course, also offer a bespoke service with short turnaround times for those occasions where something completely unique is required. We also offer this service on an OEM and ODM basis. Unfortunately, we cannot give details of these offerings but the list includes many technology brands including most of the well-known screen manufacturers.

MATTHEW: The digital signage ‘boom’ that we are experiencing right now is really not limited to any vertical market – screen technologies are so prominent in all areas of business now that we strive to make sure we cater to all markets. However, recently, we are finding the retail sector to be particularly strong as well as hospitality and transportation hubs, which is a reasonably good indicator of the current economic state.

SI ASIA: B-Tech is taken to be strong player in Asia Pac. How much of your business is accounted by APAC?

SI ASIA: What stands B-Tech apart from competition? With so much of product divergence, how would you map the completion?

SI ASIA: What is B-Tech’s immediate priority/ task?

MATTHEW: It may be clichéd but we consider our success to be down to ‘the sum of all parts’ of the business. We pride ourselves on the level of customer service that we offer, which begins right at the product design stage, where we often consult key customers as part of the design process and give advanced previews for feedback. The high levels we set are reflected in the products themselves, which are of a high quality and have earned a solid reputation based on their reliability and ease of use. Finally, we have a great team of staff, working at B-Tech offices right across the world, who are dedicated to offering the best service possible and always pay attention to what our customers need the most.

We have an extensive portfolio of off-the-shelf solutions and a dedicated in-house design team who can produce a bespoke solution if needed.

SI ASIA: How much emphasis does B-Tech lay on R & D to innovate its product offerings?

MATTHEW: As a manufacturer that designs solutions in-house, R & D is absolutely paramount to our business. In an industry with constantly evolving technology, it’s important that our off-the-shelf solutions are designed to be as ‘future-proof’ as possible, so they cater to all current requirements and those

MATTHEW: We have experienced a fast rate of growth in the region, with our APAC turnover doubling in each of the last three years. Our current aim is to see the same rate of growth over the next few years, and we continue to invest in the APAC region to make this happen.

MATTHEW: B-Tech’s main immediate task is simply to continue to improve on what we are doing – there is always room for improvement!! One of B-Tech’s USPs is being a front runner amongst our peers in providing outstanding service to all our partners, and it is imperative that this continues. There are multiple divisions within B-Tech from the designing of the products, to the manufacturing of them, to the global distribution, to the marketing and the sales channels – all of this requires continued reinvestment into B-Tech in order for us to attain the desired levels of service that I believe should be offered. To use a cliché again, treat others how you would like to be treated yourself – simple as that!

This philosophy, together with our overall network expansion strategy, is where our main focus is at the moment. Over the past few years, B-Tech has grown its presence in many regions and markets around the world. We will continue to make significant investment in furthering this, with an increased focus on our geographical footprint in the APAC and MEA markets.

Our existing presence, not only through our local branch network (currently in Dubai, Singapore, Hanoi, and Ningbo), but also through our strong business relations with many distributors/integrators/installers, will be the foundation of our efforts to build upon. www.btechavmounts.com

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EXHIBITION PREVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Asia’s Systems Integration Takes Flight Targeted at senior management, IT professionals, AV professionals, architects, interior designers, contractors, and systems integrators, the event takes a fresh approach to trade exhibitions by allowing visitors to experience the benefits and effects of integration first-hand.

The trade exhibition also includes a fully integrated mock-up of a SMART hospitality and SMART corporate setting called “iExperience of Tomorrow”, which will allow you to: • EXPERIENCE the possibilities of technology in reducing costs for your organisation by increasing efficiency, improving productivity, and encouraging collaboration within and between organisations.

• UNDERSTAND the technologies behind the seamless integration without the technical jargon.

For the first time, Globe International Events Consultancy, the organisers of Pro AVL Asia, is launching the inaugural Systems Expo 2017 event for the Asian market. Systems Expo was conceived as a result of an industry need for a professional trade platform that provides a complete range of technologies for the systems integration and commercial development.

Systems Expo 2017 will be held from 26 – 28 July 2017, at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, in Singapore.

The exhibition and showcase focuses on systems integration and electrical low voltage automation for permanent installations such as hospitality, corporate offices, government, education, and entertainment.

With the growth of commercial and residential projects in Singapore and around the region amounting to US$781,176,000,000 (Education & Research, Exhibition, Hotels, Office, Retail, Residential project values from BCIAsia), there is a huge potential for SMART technologies to be implemented in these new developments to increase productivity and efficiency.

Owners, developers and contractors of commercial developments can look forward to view the latest products and solutions available to transform their commercial corporate or hospitality spaces with SMART technologies. Major product profiles include projection technologies, screens, displays, conferencing systems, security & surveillance, building management systems, property management systems, unified communications, and collaboration technologies for SMART facilities such as offices, schools, and hotels.

• FIND OUT how you can implement integration in your organisation at a lower cost to reap cost benefits and increase profits in the long run.

Take a walk through cutting edge technological integration at “iExperience of Tomorrow”, where your experience will begin once you have arrived at the registration counter of the event.

This key feature at Systems Expo will allow you to put yourself in the shoes of a business traveller, moving from hotel, to meetings, to the office, and finally to check out.

Start your journey by checking in with the virtual receptionist at the SMART hospitality counter, access the hotel guest room with your fingertips and see the room transform to suit your preferences – lighting, music, curtains, screens, and even the mirrors will change according to what you love.

Experience collaboration and efficiency in a fully integrated business meeting room environment where you can connect wirelessly with the sound of your voice. See what the office of the future will look like and how an integrated environment can help your employees improve productivity. Finally, check out seamlessly at the reception with your personalised farewell.

EXHIBITION PREVIEW Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Technologies featured in the “iExperience of Tomorrow” showcase will include virtual receptionists, customer-centric hospitality and property management systems, security & surveillance technologies, energy efficient fixtures, meeting room booking systems, access control, LED Displays, professional audio, lighting fixtures, controls, collaboration technologies, conferencing equipment, SMART mirrors, motion sensors, artificial intelligence, digital signages, and more.

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Complementary to the systems integration event are two trade exhibitions held concurrently, with focus on the entertainment and tourism industry – namely Pro AVL Asia and Tourism Technology Asia.

Visitors in the entertainment circle can look forward to also attending Pro AVL Asia which will showcase the professional audio visual lighting technologies behind exceptional entertainment experiences in theatres, concerts, festivals, stadiums, and leisure attractions.

1st looks: 3D rendering of SMART Hospitality Area (note that this is not the final design)

The first of its kind, this special feature has been brought to life by the organisers with the consultation of Intelligent Building Systems (IBSS), Hewshott International, and a bevy of brands working together to create the most optimal, cost efficient, and forward-looking experience. Visitors can look forward to understanding how integration and automation within their organisation can lead to significant cost savings within the company, as well as better experiences for customers to keep them coming back.

Key sponsors and brands at the event will be released on the Systems Expo website at www.systems-expo.com closer to the event. 1st release of brands include Audio-Technica, Calyx, Chief, CiMSO, d&b Audiotechnik, Da-lite, ESCO Pte Ltd, Extron, HDL, Huddlecam, LEFA, March Networks, Microsoft Surface Hub, Panasonic, PTZ Optics, Waferlocks, XNprotel, and more.

On top of the SMART Hospitality & SMART Corporate feature, the event will also offer both complimentary and paid educational opportunities for the professional who is curious about systems integration and how it can be applied to their organisation. Topics will touch on how systems integration can reap cost benefits for organisations looking to improve their bottom line, as well as how the technologies can be applied for different industries. For details about topics & speakers, sign up for the Systems Expo mailing list or register as a visitor on the event website at www.systems-expo.com.

There will also be live shows at 12.00pm and 5.00pm daily for live demos of complete entertainment solutions where international brands are working together on 4 stages to showcase how hardware and software can bring out your company’s brand and enhance the customer’s experience.

Tourism Technology Asia zooms into the tourism industry where hotels, hospitality, MICE, attractions, museums, and recreation are tapping on the power of technology to boost experiences and encourage retention of customers.

The 3-in-1 event is supported by IE Singapore, Singapore Tourism Board, Singapore Convention & Exhibition Bureau, SACEOS (Singapore Association of Convention, Exhibition Organisers and Suppliers), AFECA (Asian Federation of Exhibition & Convention Association).

Registration to the event is free for trade visitors and registration to any one of the events will allow you access to all three. Register as a visitor now on www.systems-expo.com/visitorregistration or find out more about each event at www.systems-expo.com, www. proavlasia.com, and www.tourismtechnologyasia.com.

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INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

An Auditorium Of A ‘Class’

INDIA

By Ram Bhavanashi

Harsha International Public School on Bengaluru Outskirts Sports a Classy Facility

One of the many advantages of awareness and information about technology availability is it can help create spaces of desired technology deployment in the desired fashion. While Bengaluru, referred to as ICT Capital of India, has many such examples of inventive AV deployments, the laurels are joined by yet another credential recently- from the Education segment.

A new auditorium facility created at Harsha International Public School on the premises of MS Ramaiah Harsha Hospital campus is a veritable statement of its class. Bengaluru-based AV systems integration firm Hansa Pictures took the honours of the design-build install. A snappy exclusive by SI Asia.

Healthcare to Mindcare…

MS Ramaiah Harsha Hospital at Nelamangala – some 25 kilometres northwest of Central Bengaluru – on the National Highway 4 (Bengaluru-Pune Road), is credited with having

some of the most sophisticated and speciality medical services, and more, serving the region with the same finesse, if not better, as those with ‘super speciality’ trappings in the main city.

That’s not the story though here. A school that is created adjacent to the hospital on the same premises is one to reckon.

INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Harsha International Public School (HIPS), set up by a group of go-getter professionals, and managed under the Harsha Chartiable Trust is a statement in itself.

Besides many modern educational embellishments that have more or less become conventional for most schools in city, the HIPS prides itself in setting up Smart Classrooms and Audio-Visual rooms as well as part of its resolve to disseminate knowledge in tune with the 'gen-next' mode of teaching.

That is not all. With a view to further providing a wider platform to promote the students' all-round skills in cultural and recreational activities, as also creating a facility for the institution’s future requirements, the management decided to build a state-of-the-art auditorium on the premises.

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expressing the students’ cultural and recreational aspirations.

“We wanted to create the auditorium that met the requirements now, and is capable of meeting the needs in future,” said the Chairman.

Making of HIPS… While the promoters scouted for a solutions provider who could meet their requirements, Bengaluru-based Hansa Pictures landed the job- owing to their acknowledged track record in the domain, and trusted relationship with the HIPS management from a credible job executed earlier.

Hansa’s good track record in the domain and with the HIPS meant that their job got multiplied with added services. The design-build brief in essence meant that they had to design and fix the acoustic solution as well, before getting on to the AV design set-up.

“The client wanted the auditorium to be designed with latest amenities, which was anyway known to us,” says Gautam N Shah, Head-Projects, at Hansa. “The new spec in the brief was that the auditorium to sport very vibrant and vivid colours, to be in tune with children’s mindset. That’s one,” he recalls.

“Two- the latest AV solution had to be designed and built at a very economical budget, that was a certain challenge.”

Sivakumar, Chairman, Harisha International Public School

“At the outset, we were actually concerned at the tragic situation in the region when it was shorn of any basic medical amenity in the vicinity; and this stretch being the National Highway, prone to fatal road mishaps, it used to be painful scenarios very often on the roads,” recalls S. Sivakuimar, Chairman, Harsha Group of Institutions- the promoting body of HIPS. “At that time, we decided to build a hospital with the same, if not better, facilities as those in the super speciality hospitals in the main city,” he explains.

While the initiative helped save hundreds of lives, the promoters weren’t really happy as they felt something missing.

Watching people sending their wards to the distant Bengaluru for quality education, and struggling to bear the exorbitant costs – even as many others settle with substandard or ‘no’ education at all – they decided to set up an institution that meets the educational requirements of the region.

“It had to meet not just the requirements, but the aspirations of people,” recalls Sivakumar. “So, we decided to build a school that sports all that is offered by acclaimed institutions in the city, in terms of amenities; we would match, if not better them.”

The resolve saw the coming together of like-minded people driven by the vision, and that gave foundations for building the ‘classy’ Harsha International Public School. While most of the modern facilities like the Smart Classrooms and AV rooms happened by default one after the other, it was a situation to consider when they wanted to create a dedicated facility for

The first good thing about the install was that the designer got the opportunity to get involved with the building construction from the beginning. “We got to involve in the project from the time of the basic structure coming up; that helped us assess the acoustic requirements, calculate the dB levels, and suggest the acoustic measures,” Gautam explains. “Employing the Ease software, we measured the acoustics as well as the audio specs, and did the lighting and video requirements.”

The 406-seat, rectangular auditorium hall - designed by locally-based Veedu Architects - comprised two levels of seating with a Balcony class at the rear end, where exited the Control Room. So, with a view to providing a seamless, smooth two-way connect between the Control Room and the Stage proceedings, Hansa decided to incorporate wireless communication snystem across the facility.

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INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

video comprised an NEC DLP projector hung from the ceiling in front of the stage, while the display comprised a cyclorama of Galalite make on the facing wall. The stage is fitted with a ceiling-mounted lighting grid comprising ETC’s Halogen Profiles, while the FOH lighting bar is fixed with Pixlless LEDs from Canara Lighting.

“The deployment process was largely smooth and seamless,” says Gautam. “That we got involved in the structure from the very beginning, and we had a very matching wavelength with the architect’s design vision, there weren’t any major challenges,” he explains. “It only mattered a regular, and attentive coordination with the AC vendor so that the noise issues were addressed and not intruded into the audi; it was also about the Electrical team so that we fixed all wiring issues in the beginning itself.”

The client is obviously happy- to the extent of issuing a commendation to Gautam and team.

“We are certainly happy, they did a commendable job,” comes the appreciation from Sivakumar. “The designers not only gave us a solution to our requirement, they were able to walk an extra mile to accomplish the job within the budget and timelines, and make it more fulfilling and experiential.”

In order to stitch in the acoustic solution, Hansa turned to Himalayan Acoustics whose acoustic tiles are claimed to come with special characteristics of broadband frequency absorption, and play reflective a the same time. “The reason we chose these tiles was because of their special properties of noise absorption and sound diffusion; that helps provide uniform sound dispersion across the ambience of the space,” Gautam explains. “We employed tiles coloured in two special hues- with a view to making the ceiling ambience young and inviting.”

Indeed the auditorium sports a very warm and lively blend of ideas between the architect and the AV designer as exemplified by the vibrant colours on one side, and ingenious employment of lighting and aesthetics on the other. With a fair degree of allowance for natural light to be controlled by rotatable blinds and clever usage of veneer finish wooden side and rear walls, the interiors do look very pleasant. The wooden-decked floors contribute to the acoustic spec.

The AV Design The AV solution thus comprised the audio with five wired and three handheld cardioid wireless microphones from Mipro doing the audio capture; a Yamaha mixer in the Control Room mixing the audio while four EV loudspeakers – two each mounted on the two side walls in front and rear- did the sound reproduction. A Telex-RTS Full Duplex Talk system is employed to provide a seamless two-way communication. The

"That was a very fulfilling experience for us too, says the Hansa Exec. It gives us immense pleasure that we not only got involved in a very distinct project but were able to make the client happy.” www.hansagroup.in

The FACTFILE: Project Name: Harsha International Public School Project Location: Nelamanagala, Bengaluru Project Owner (Promotors): Harsha Group of Institutions Project Segment: Education (Facility-Auditorium) Interior Design: Veedu Architects AV&Acoustics Design: Hansa Pictures Systems Integrator: Hansa Pictures Key Solutions Installed: • Four units of Electro-Voice Loudspeakers • One unit of Yamaha mixer • One Lighting desk • Microphones (5 wired & 3 wireless) from Mipro • RTS & Telex (duplex talk for seamless communication) • One unit of NEC DLP projection • On-stage Lighting from ETC Halogen Profiles • FOH Lighting Pixless LEDs from Canara Lighting • One unit of Cyclorama (Galalite make) • Drapery System from Hansa Pictures • Fog Machines from Antari (Acme make)

O O Y Y D N I F I CK O OFF LA EGRRA A G T E NT URBBI IIN R T S U I T D S DI 26 – 28 July 2017 Singapore Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre

iExperience of Tomorrow – a SMART Hospitality and SMART Corporate Experience iExperience of Tomorrow – a SMART Hospitality and SMART Corporate Experience For the first time, walk-through a live mock-up of a fully integrated hospitality and corporate setting at the For the first time, walk-through a live mock-up of benefits a fully “iExperience of Tomorrow” showcase to feel the integrated hospitality and corporate setting at the of automation for your organisation. Touch down at“iExperie the

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INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

SINGAPORE

Mediacorp Selects Tripleplay To Deliver IPTV Streaming For Its New Campus Solution offers integration with Directory system, control and security

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ediacorp has the widest range of media platforms in Singapore spanning digital, television, radio, print and out-of-home media. Its mission is to engage, entertain and enrich audiences by harnessing the power of creativity.

Mediacorp pioneered the development of Singapore’s broadcasting industry, with the radio broadcast in 1936 and television broadcast in 1963. Today, the company has over 50 products and brands in four languages (English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil), reaching out to virtually all adults in Singapore weekly.

Mediacorp’s new campus in one-north was designed as a collaborative space for employees, a hub for creativity and a destination for public engagement.

As part of its new broadcast and IT infrastructure, Mediacorp wanted a modern, future proof solution for the delivery of high definition, IP based digital content across the whole campus.

The solution also needed to be a state-of-the-art, next generation platform that would not just deliver on project aims but satisfy IT security requirements, including the inclusion of head end server failover and redundancy and full centralised management of channel line-ups, user access and content delivery.

Kelvin Ma, Vice President for Campus Technology Development commented, “Our Japanese architect Maki created a beautiful campus with lots of working spaces. We want to ensure that we also deliver a technology solution that is modern, high quality,

reliable and secure. And we want a single platform solution to encode and deliver our television and radio content to any employee laptop.”

Enterprise video Platform delivers over 100 TV channels to desktop and STB Added Mr Ma, “We also needed full IPTV capability, integration with our Active Directory system, the ability to create user groups to control which content was available where and to whom we chose. This is not just an AV system, it is also an IT system.”

Mediacorp chose Tripleplay’s single platform digital media solution incorporating full IPTV capabilities, for desktop and set top box, as it satisfied Mediacorp’s requirements which include live transcoding for multiple devices and formats and user access controls.

IPTV streams are delivered via Microsoft IE 11.0 and Media Video Player (MVP) app for desktop users and via Amino Set Top Boxes for access via TV. Tripleplay’s IPTV solution and client screen control application, TripleClient, are also used in the studio mixing room to monitor sources. The application gives Mediacorp control of the content without the need to access the full system management interface. The Tripleplay platform delivers over 100 TV and Radio streams across the Mediacorp network to over 100 IPTV STBs. www.tripleplay.tv

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INDIA

Martin Audio O-Line Installed In Thane Catholic Church Zoodio carries out major HoW Heritage sound upgrade in India

"..this was the first time both the O-Line and CDDs had been used in India." corridors. “The reason,” said Pereira, “was that we had a lot of constraints from the Heritage committee; they wanted an extremely compact system that would not block any of the murals and paintings present in the church and also a system that sounded good.”

He also emphasised that this was the first time both the O-Line and CDDs had been used in India.

S

t. John the Baptist, a Portuguese style Christian church situated in the Indian city of Thane, north of Mumbai, can trace its origins back 500 years. Having been declared a heritage site by UNESCO, it recently underwent a massive restoration project spanning 18 months, including a complete sound system upgrade.

The older system had consisted of multiple speakers that were spaced along the wall of the church, and neither provided suitable intelligibility nor venue coverage. With the extension to the church (enabling it to expand the congregation size to around 5,000 for Sunday mass), the parish priest had initially requested a demo from another vendor to provide coverage for the growing number of people. “We were not very impressed with the sound,” admits Cleo Pereira, from Martin Audio partner Zoodio, who has been specifying the British brand for the past decade. “Instead, we suggested the Martin Audio O-Line as a brand, since we use it in most of our installs.“ Zoodio’s Dylan Hilton, who also happens to be one of the parishioners, co-ordinated the project. He set up a demo of this discreet, premium micro line array through Integrated Entertainment Solutions (IES), the Martin Audio distributors.

“We suggested that this would do the trick, at the same time reducing the number of speakers required and enhancing the overall worship experience.”

O-Line was duly adopted, with Zoodio supplying the components and their team of engineers, technicians and riggers worked on the fit out, to meet Dylan Hilton’s specification, with four sets of O-Line (eight elements per side).

O-Line was supported with Martin Audio’s CDD8 Differential Dispersion loudspeakers for the delays as well as in the

The biggest challenge had been rigging the O-Line as the walls of the church were not concrete but limestone — and so the utmost care and safety measures needed to be taken during the mounting phase. “The O-Line did a perfect job in reducing the reverberations within the church as the limestone walls had no acoustical properties.”

Feeding the system is a combination of six vocal mics for the choir, an acoustic guitar and keyboards, a podium mic for the clergy and three mics on the altar.

In conclusion, Cleo Pereira said, “Having dealt with all the sound challenges, and taken proper care to avoid any further issues, Zoodio has brought back the voice of the church once more.”

The Parish Priest, the Rev. Fr. Allwyn D’Silva is also delighted with the system, which he says provides him with excellent sound quality. www.martin-audio.com

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INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

PHILIPPINES

Living Word Christian Churches Of Cebu International Inc’s New Main Sanctuary Offers Clear Audible Sound KV2 Audio solutions help raise fidelity of the services

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iving Word Christian Churches of Cebu International, Inc. (LWCCCII) is a corporation organised exclusively for spiritual and religious purposes. They are a family of churches founded and built on the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Currently there are 100 outreach churches throughout the Philippines and in some other parts of the world under the LWCCCII umbrella.

Furthermore the church called in the sound system only after the structural work was confirmed. The new sanctuary was fan shaped and there were design elements for example like the ceiling with its wave like design that could not be touched.

Regardless the demonstration by KV2 showcased to the church committee its ability to provide near perfect sound, which won them over.

Living Word Christian Churches of Cebu International Inc. main church located in Cebu in the Philippines carried out an expansion last year of its existing building to cater to the growing congregation. The new sanctuary was built on the third floor of the building to accommodate 2000 worshippers.

“Due to limitations on the structure of the truss, the VHD system was chosen because it provides huge cost savings in terms of size, weight as compared to the popular trend of line array technology and at the same time offers unparalleled quality, power, coverage and a new level of sound reproduction previously unheard of in large scale audio systems. The VHD being an efficient system provides the High SPL while still providing superb clarity with NO Distortion,” said Tony Kwan, Director of Montecruz Enterprises, Inc. who supplied and installed the KV2 Audio speakers.

The church was keen to ensure that their new sanctuary will provide the right ambience for the congregation. One of their key objectives was to ensure wide clear dispersion of quality sound. The church formed a committee to look into a system that will meet their objectives. One of the brands that showed up for evaluation was KV2 Audio. The challenge was the building was an existing one which meant that structure wise, the audio system employed had to work within any constraints.

The speaker configuration for the sanctuary features a unit of KV2 VHD2.0 and a unit of KV2 VHD1.0 hung on the left and right of the stage as FOH speakers. The speakers are driven

INSTALLATIONS Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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"The sound system is world class and achieves our need for clear and powerful sound which is necessary in our desire to teach people God's word and provide uplifting and soul refreshing worship." – Senior Pastor Carmelo Caparros by 2 units of KV2 VHD2000 amplifiers. Complementing the FOH speakers are four units of KV2 VHD4.18 sub-woofers that have been placed below the stage and are driven by the KV2 VHD3200 amplifiers. Monitoring duties are handled by four units of KV2 ESM26 that are amplified via the KV2 ESP4000.

Other accessories that complete the speaker solution includes 2 units of KV2 SAC2 and a unit of KV2 SDD3.

cleanest sounding system I have ever heard. This allows us to convey God’s words and wishes to our congregation,” said a very pleased Roy.S.Ricacho, Technical Team-Ministry Head. www.livingword.ph www.kv2audio.com www.sindoexport.com

The KV2 SAC2 is a 2 channel super analog controller. The ultimate advantage of using the SAC2 anywhere within the signal chain is the immediate improvement in definition, resolution and dynamic range. A musical four-band equaliser, allows for quickly shaping the sound, exactly as required without affecting the overall linear response. The two notch filters per output offer immediate control of dominant room resonances.

The SDD3 is a digital delay unit that utilises KV2’s ground breaking 20MHz PDM digital conversion process developed for time alignment applications in their speaker range. The SDD3 has two super digital channels that will deliver up to 400 milliseconds of delay. In this installation it has been used to delay the signal between the FOH and Sub speakers. “With this unit, the audio reinforced offers a seamless experience to the congregation,” said Koh Yock Kee, Director of Sindo Exports Pte Ltd, who supported Montecruz Enterprises in this project.

The congregation and the church has showered praises on the new audio system. "KV2 is the best audio system that I know as compared to the different brands and models that I used for more than 25 years. Dispersion is wide, clear, consistent and reliable. I am also very happy and grateful of KV2's continuing support to us that started from audio planning to installation and even in our actual use." KV2 audio is the clearest and

Koh Yock Kee, Director of Sindo Exports Pte Ltd with Senior Pastor Carmelo Caparros

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VOICE BOX Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

ESCO – The AVidity Is Calling AudioVisually

The synonymic AV enterprise is breathing its dynamism ESCO – formerly ESCO Audio Visual – is taken as a generic synonym for Indian genius in the domain of audiovisual systems integration. Having been through the currents of testing troughs, after scaling continental crests of fame for years, and seeded generations of AV professionals, ‘Brand ESCO’ is surfing again ahead and up the peaks of credentials.

Sunil Mehan, the charismatic Managing Director of ESCO India – who steered the company out of crises, and back onto its dynamic best – shares his vision and mission.

On ESCO genesis, genre and journey…

ESCO was founded in 1994 in Singapore with an intent to become the best provider of audio-visual and systems integration services on a global delivery platform. The company’s strong and established relationships with the then emerging industries in the East helped it quickly expand its reach and appeal in the region. By 1997, ESCO evolved into a full-fledged AVSI solutions provider with well-networked offices in as many as five Asian geographies.

Fortunately ESCO had the nerve to endure the testing troughs, and the verve to scale the crests again.

We persevered- to build on our reputation of engineering skills and timely project execution capabilities; to rekindle the old spirit and faith among our trusted clients; to mend our business approach; and to re-orient our market strategy. We changed our Logo, and tag line to represent the renewed enthusiasm of the ‘new look’ ESCO. We defined our business dynamics in much more clinical fashion to safeguard our commercials even as we maintain our acclaimed trade ethics.

ESCO has been ‘the’ brand most AV consumers have long identified themselves with. Admittedly, that has contributed to our coming back strongly. ESCO today is a very strong and stable company- with good talent pool, credibility, and exponential growth.

On benchmarking industry standards…

We believe we contributed a fair bit to the industry in terms of practices and standardizations. With the objective of providing world class services even as we remain relevant to the industry dynamics, we continue to explore the best things to better our offerings.

It was an exalted vision that ESCO had its genesis in- of creating a continental platform for delivering superior technology experience of audio-visual communication; of characterizing itself by a mission for benchmarking industry standards and processes; of inculcating unflinching passion for building (what we call) domain intellect for larger industry benefit.

We introduced methodologies to the systems integration processes- a sort of code of conduct. We introduced the system of BoQs; benchmarked standards for consultancy, and I must give significant credit to Mr Kelvin’Ashby King for his commendable contribution to the domain. Most of the integration practices regarded as standard today have their roots in ESCO’s instrumentation.

The chutzpa that ESCO epitomized made it synonymous with seeding, and benchmarking AV excellence in its operative regions. Thus, ESCO heralded a paradigm shift about the notion of AV industry in the country

On the dynamics, trends and tenets of the time…

Today, ESCO prides in being one of the first-generation AV Integration firms in Asia, and a good mix of culturally diverse professionals passionate to deliver excellence on a global platform. Without sounding pontifical, our regional syncretism and depth in management differentiate us from our peers. Our regional strengths, coupled with strong global affiliations, make us unique.

On Crests ‘n’ Crises & rejuvenation…

Ambitions, often, come with oddities. ESCO had been a very ambitious case of delivering and standardizing AV excellence.

The oddity, perhaps, had been a certain inadvertence of business prudence in some quarters due to an excitement of perceived scale-ups. That rendered ESCO lose some significant grounds, and in that too, it paved way for others to grow.

It was palpably unorganized; most jobs were based on assumptions and not on realistic assessment of requirement, nor by evaluated/certified professionals. Exposure and access to technology wasn’t methodical, and so were the project executions. In fact, that was exactly where ESCO stepped in, to build a ‘systemic’ business story, preceding the ensuing information explosion that permeated every field.

Today, it’s a completely changed scenario. There is a high degree of maturity and understanding of technology among clients. The SI needs to be more educated and informed to be able to win a project. While the entry barrier is still very low, not anyone and everyone sporting an AV tag can execute jobs with a finesse that a qualified professional does.

So, professional expertise and quality service have come be appreciated and valued by discerning clients.

We are glad that ESCO had been instrumental in this transformation.

VOICE BOX Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

Eric Lim, MD, ESCO

Sujith Sivaram, Executive Director, ESCO

Jeffery Reyes, MD, ESCO Philippines

On four important developments that occurred to Indian AV since its beginning…

One- Indian AV has leapfrogged into digital domain; it didn’t have to journey the mesh of legacy systems, and therefore stands on par, if not in better steed, with advanced markets.

Indian genius today can boast of more sophisticated projects than the ‘most advanced’ markets in the world.

Two- emergence of wider presence of OEMs! With most OEMs vastly expanding their profile in the country, SIs or Designers do not need to outsource any longer; they have almost everything available locally which has enabled them explore their creative abilities. Clients and SI can now save a lot of time and money as they are able to avoid importing those solutions and thereby the potentially complicated administrative entanglements.

Three- integration processes have become professional; they are far more structured facilitating easy mapping or even auditing. Importance of certifications such as CTS is being realized and increasingly sought by integration and design firms. The advent of InfoComm has been a big plus contributing to this cause.

Four- preponderance of buying ability of the market. It probably makes India the most significant in the region today, and possibly, the next biggest market after the US and China.

Consequently, SIs have been expanding their imprint onto larger continental stretches. This is best exemplified by none other than ESCO as the brand had spread across Singapore, Philippines, Korea and Indonesia. In recent times, there have been both SIs, and Consultants setting up bases on a pan-Asia basis and executing projects of credence all over.

On how have they shaped up Indian AVSI milieu…

Cumulatively, they contributed to the genuine growth of the industry. They brought in a generic sense of realization among AV consumers as well as service provides about the importance of professionally qualified/certified services for executing jobs with precision of not only design but also costing and timelines. There are certainly more certified professionals in the country today than the figure a few years ago. This has in turn rendered the project designs and integrations more inventive.

Being able to win and execute projects outside India helped them understand the work cultures of different communities

Sam Lim, MD, ESCO Indonesia

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Taehoon Yen, MD, ESCO Korea

and contributed to their bettering global outlook. Most have successfully imbibed those work cultures to enhance their competence on a global scale.

On the challenges facing the regional AV industry…

There is a massive void between requirement and availability of certified AV professionals; expansion of the industry is faster than the ready pool of talents we can tap on. This creates the need to recruit fresh blood and invest on it for training, to meet the increasing demands. In the process, the entry barrier is rendered low, and allows anyone with an AV tag sport as SI/Consultant. In the end, we have two extremes. One- the most sophisticated, and two- the most sub-standard offering situations.

There is an ideation of standardizing project awarding methodology for End Users wherein the bidding SIs are evaluated for their certification standards before being awarded a job. This is a welcome development.

On single largest factor that ESCO brought to the industry…

At the risk of sounding a bit self-conceited, ESCO seeded the Indian AV industry. This single factor includes introduction of a spectra of top brands from around the globe; benchmarking best practices; breeding generations of AV professionals that are defining the dynamics of industry today.

On where ESCO going into the future…

Like I said in the beginning, ESCO is a good mix of culturally diverse professionals passionate to deliver excellence on a global platform. The team ESCO is led by Managing Director Eric Lim, a personality of high acclaim, and Executive Director Sujith Sivaram – both centrally located in Singapore – and ably coordinated from Jeffery Reyes-MD, ESCO Philippines; Taehoon Yen-MD, ESCO Korea; Sam Lim-MD, ESCO Indonesia, and, of course, myself from India.

Each of these professionals are known for their exemplary leadership qualities, AV acumen, and a zest for excellence.

Together, we all aim at being one of the leading SI conglomerates globally; expand our portfolio to include turnkey solutions and more. Fortunately, ESCO has nothing new to prove to the industry- except the fact that it is back, strong, stable and scaling high. www.esco.systems

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VOICE BOX Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

The Days Of AV And Home Automation As We Know It Are Numbered!

An interesting and thought provoking piece from Bruno Napoli from the company Krika. Join the conversation and share your thoughts with Bruno.

Photo credit Zakary Belamy - http://zakarybelamy.com

Let's play the game of anticipation and try to seem honest for just 5 minutes: A good part of AV and almost all home automation business of the residential market is about to switch from the hands of Home Technologists to the hands of big companies like Google, Amazon, Facebook, and Apple (GAFA).

While we are being honest, accept that there is absolutely nothing we can do against it except to try to follow this technological locomotive, grab all possible opportunities or just be spectators and continue our business model based on moving boxes. This fantastic new era started the day Amazon had an exhibit in a CEDIA show!

Because it is going to be produced for the mass market, the fancy technologies only a bunch of aesthetes could afford are about to land in the homes of everyday people for 1/100 of today's prices. The reason home automation systems we are used to seeing at CEDIA or ISE shows are so expensive today, is because they are produced for a very small market of Home Technologists. Just as there is no need to hire an expert to install a computer, there will no longer be a need for specialists to install all those new AV and home automation systems GAFA are about to produce. Amazon didn't choose to launch Echo in 2016 by accident. It was right on time just as we finally got rid of analog signals and infrared. It is the definition of an industrial revolution - and it is starting right now!

You Can't Compete with GAFA Money The market is mature now and, trust me, GAFA are real experts in marketing! They will provide UI that will be so easy to use that even your grandparents will understand how it works.

While you're reading this article, I know there is a chance that

you're thinking to yourself about how much of an expert RTI or C4 programmer you are, but humble yourself and accept the fact that you cannot compete with Apple or Google: they literally rule the world and created technology everyone on earth use all day long.

Although this change will not be perfect in the beginning, it will work beautifully in the end because the big players are involved now. In one year, GAFA can invest 10 times as much money in R&D than the whole AV and home automation industry has in the last 30 years. We must accept the fact that for almost 3 decades, Home Technologists have been pioneers, the Indiana Jones, that cleared this market with a machete, trying to avoid the poisoned darts of experimental technologies from exotic tribes. GAFA was watching us, pretending they were not interested when… Boom! Coming out from nowhere: Amazon Echo in da house!

Did you know that within a few months of its debut, Amazon Echo conquered more houses than the total number of jobs addressed and channeled by Home Technologists worldwide in the past 30 years?! It's not that Home Technologists are useless, but just that they do not have the power of GAFA. Whatever crap GAFA sells, customers will trust them because they have been infused, literally infiltrated for several years now, totally dependent of their free products like Gmail or Facebook.

It would simply be a new button in the Gmail or Facebook UI that will let you remotely turn on/off your “GAFA-Ready” air conditioner. You just can't compete with this! When GAFA suggests to their customers to purchase to the “$30 monthly service and maintenance plan” - you know what? Everyone will obey, just as people are doing with Apple Care. You can bet

VOICE BOX Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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In one year, GAFA can invest 10 times as much money in R&D than the whole AV and home automation industry has in the last 30 years. that within one year all major manufacturers will create 100% compatible GAFA products to get the benefit of this incredible worldwide market opportunity GAFA is creating. The clock is ticking, CES, CEDIA and ISE shows will soon be renamed: “The International Show of GAFA Partners”.

They Laughed at Bill Gates, Too For three decades Home Technologists were the kings of AV and home automation, but they must realize that their business model must take their place in history now. Today, the entire CEDIA home-technology channel caters to maybe 10,000 Home Technologists in the world. The latest CE Pro 100 report for 2017 says the median number of multi-system projects done by the top 100 integrators in a year is 150. GAFA addresses the entire 7 billion human beings on this planet.

This is the same type of revolution Bill Gates did back in 1980, promising “A computer on every desk and in every home.”

At the time, professionals laughed at him. Thirty-seven years later, if we include mobile phones and tablets, we have 10 computers in each house for 1/10,000 of the price.

Back in the 1980s, no one would believe that a 3-year-old could learn how to use a tablet within 5 minutes; a tablet that is 100 times more sophisticated and powerful than the computers at the time. The big difference now is the fact that people are used to technology and the UI provided by GAFA for several years. This time will take less than 5 years to come into all homes - not 30! Soon the construction industry will partner with GAFA to provide Google or Amazon-ready buildings! Apple will build entire “Apple Home Kit” - ready districts. GAFA will have their own university to educate electricians. Yes, you heard me: Electricians will be the people who will install all the new Home Technologies provided by big players. Even architects will be GAFA certified!

Big players may not want to hire Home Technologists to install their systems. They need fresh blood and they need people with clear minds that will follow their rules. Seems unbelievable? Did Amazon send their own people to enduser's homes' for a “Smart Home Consultation” or did they partner with all local Home Technologists? It's a new industry that will create thousands of new jobs and could force Home Technologists to change their business model from box movers to service and maintenance providers because GAFA will deliver their gears directly to end user's.

Old Jobs Will Disappear, New Ones Created Like in all industrial revolutions, when big companies are on the field all the little ones disappear. Don't get me wrong: this is not a punishment, this is not bad, Home Technologists didn't screw up, and I'm not pessimistic, it is the way it is. It's inevitable and there must be something wrong with you if you think you can fight against this change. Many industries have transformed in the past and many jobs have disappeared,

but many new opportunities were created. When Henry Ford launched the Model T, hundreds of thousands of craftsmen jobs disappeared in the horse-and-stagecoach business. Who is going to complain about it today? Home Technologists of today are what stagecoach craftsmen were before the Model T arrived.

The mass market will never buy any of the brands Home Technologists use because - except in our “little industry" - no one is aware of them. The mass market will want the stuff they see the ads on TV and only GAFA can afford to play ads on TV. They'll buy whatever new fashionable gadget GAFA will command them to buy. One day every Android telephone will have a pre-installed “Google Home app” that will natively talk with all devices you already have in your house. Do I have to mention Apple, Microsoft or Samsung? Can't you see what's going to happen soon? You have all the pieces of the puzzle to see the big picture now.

GAFA are expelling Home Technologists from the residential market, leaving them just the very high-end jobs for wealthy clients. Rich people are ready to pay a lot for exclusive technologies that no one else can afford, but what will we sell them when anyone can purchase a 4K 75” TV for $700 at their local Best Buy? Any kind of exotic home automation system we attempt to sell them would be for naught as nothing would “work better than the Apple home stuff.” Clients left and right will be demanding: “I want an Apple Home Kit system because it's free on my cellphone, it's simple, and it is guaranteed to work by Apple!” In less than one year, every time you try to sell a home automation system, your client will tell you: “Sorry, we already have an Amazon Echo at home”.

So, what can Home Technologist do now?

Even though the fact that this revolution will deeply change the way we are working now, there are still incredible opportunities for people with open and flexible minds. You might have been the stagecoach craftsmen of horse-and-carriage ages, but you have the chance to thrive in all the new jobs created by the Model T era. Be sure you don't miss that train! A good start would be to add this sentence on your website and your truck: "We won't let you down with technology. We offer service, maintenance plan and remote supervision"!

What do you think? Let's share this article to everyone, let's have this open discussion about this incredible and exciting new technological revolution.

Krika offers commercial and residential remote supervision for IP enabled devices. To contribute your thoughts, you may write to bruno.napoli@get-krika.com www.get-krika.com

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ON OUR WEB Systems Integration Asia June - July 2017

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