Extron’s S Technical Institute Debuts During INFOCOMM 2000...Extron’s S3 Technical Institute Debuts During INFOCOMM 2000 E xtron has always believed that training is the most valuable

Extron’s S3 Technical InstituteDebuts During INFOCOMM 2000

Extron has always believed that training is the most

valuable service we can provide to our dealers. Now,

our new world-class training center greatly enhances our

ability to deliver Extron’s renowned training.

continued on page 2

After extensive planning andeight months of construction, ourtraining staff is proud to announcethe grand opening of the S3

Technical Institute training facility.The training center’s design wasdriven by the knowledge andexpertise of Extron’s training staff,and heavily influenced by the wishlists of our trainers. The trainingfacility greatly expands Extron’straining capabilities and increasesour flexibility, now and in thefuture, as we strive to remain atthe forefront of dealer supportthrough education and training.

The training center features acomprehensive A/V training room,a fully equipped theater, acomputer-based training room,two state-of-the-art video-conference rooms, and an editingstudio. A complete guest

www.extron.com

FEATURE ARTICLESOn the cover...

Extron’s S3 Technical InstituteDebuts During INFOCOMM

4 Switcher and Video ScalerCombination: System 7SC

26 Extron’s Newest WebServices

COLUMNS6 Hotline:

Extron To Host ICIA West CoastTraining in New Training Facility

8 Technically Speaking...Championing the INFOCOMMProjection Shoot-Out®

12 Unique Techniques:Extron’s New Training Facility

19 Rental & Staging Corner: Extron’s SGS 408

21 Tech Corner:Cat 5 Transmitter/ReceiverTechnology

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

14 New Products

24 New News

28 Tweeker Use

communications center, adjacent tothe training facility, is equippedwith eight semi-private boothswhere visitors can make phone callsand plug in their laptops to checktheir e-mail.

The centerpiece of Extron’straining facility, the A/V trainingroom, is equipped with three topof the line rear projectors—a Sony VPH-G90V 9” CRTprojector flanked by two BarcoBarcoGraphics 6300 DLC LCDprojectors. The projectors operatein a separate projection room,projecting onto Stewart rearprojection screens. In the projectionroom, each projector's line of sightto the screen is enclosed in a tunnelto ensure that projection roomlighting does not interfere with thestudents’ view of the presentation

Issue 11.2 May • June 2000

2 ExtroNews 11.2 May/June 2000

in the training room. The projection roomdoubles as a large equipment storage areafilled with interfacing, switching, anddistribution products, dedicated for classdemonstrations and hands-on exercises. Thetraining room is also equipped with aChristie Digital Systems Vista X3 DLP frontprojector system and a Stewart frontprojection screen; both are concealed in thefalse ceiling when not in use. The ceiling alsohouses speakers and microphones to ensurethat everyone can clearly hear and be heard.The sound insulation and acoustics in the

training room rival those in many movietheaters. Walls, doors, and ceiling materialswere all selected for high soundtransmission class (STC) ratings, to ensurethat hallway traffic or activities in adjoiningrooms do not interfere with the training.Even the slightly off-square shape of theroom and the staggered height of the falseceiling panels were dictated by the concernfor proper acoustics. The lighting in thetraining room is variable from a low, movietheater level to bright, studio level lightingsuitable for videotaping training sessions.

Computer-basedTraining Room

Training Room

Projection Room

Theater

Projection Room

Videoconference Rooms

External Power

Illustration by illustrator guy

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The large volume of air between thestaggered false ceiling panels and the actualceiling of the room maximizes the students’comfort and minimizes the distraction offrequent air conditioner operation. Theinstructor’s podium puts all the commonpresentation and room control tools at theinstructor’s fingertips: a PC, a documentcamera, a VCR, and a room control system.Floor box connections at each desk providethe capability for any attendee to plug in alaptop computer and contribute to thepresentation. The room is furnished with

An aerial view of Extron's S3 TechnicalInstitute Training Facility. These rooms

support Extron School, Extron DistanceLearning, internal training, and other

educational programs.

May/June 2000 ExtroNews 11.2 3

E x t r o n ’s N e w Tr a i n i n g F a c i l i t y ( c o n t . )

ergonomic chairs and plenty of desk space.The A/V training room can comfortably hold24 students. Similar attention to detail isapparent in the theater. Its acoustics,lighting, environmental, and systems controlcapabilities are almost identical to thetraining room’s. The room features a SonyVPC-PX304 LCD projector in a rearprojection mode and a Stewart screen, witha full 6.1-channel SurroundSound audiosystem. A Digital Projections Inc. highlight5000gv DLP projector drives a Stewart widescreen. This comfortably furnished room canseat 60 people and is ideal fordemonstrations, sales meetings, andadditional training sessions.

Training Extron’s customer servicepersonnel is the primary mission of thecomputer-based training room. By masteringthe various software applications thatstreamline Extron’s customer service process,our personnel are as well prepared aspossible to address our customers’ needs.This training room is also an ideal locationfor employees to work on their InternationalCommunications Industries Association(ICIA) Certified Technology Specialist (CTS)studies. The computer-based training roomis equipped with six computer-trainingstations and a retro enclosure that candisplay the image from any of the computerstations, as well as the instructor’spresentation. Up to 12 students at a timecan be trained. Distance learning is aninvaluable tool for people who are tooswamped at work to come to Anaheim forExtron School or even to attend ExtronSchool On The Road. Two distance learningrooms are dedicated to training A/Vprofessionals around the world. Just asexciting is the capability for experts inremote locales to share their expertise withthe staff at Extron. The attention to detail inthe videoconference rooms is keyed towardtransmitting a sharp video image and crystalclear audio. Pale blue walls add depth andeliminate the flat look that video can convey.Angled 45° lighting alleviates the darkshadows on presenters’ faces that arecommon with standard overhead

fluorescent lighting. Side-deflectedventilation prevents airflow sounds on theaudio transmission. Although these tworooms are Extron’s primary sites for distancelearning, any of the other training roomscan also host a session with distant studentsor a remote guest lecturer.

An Extron Matrix 6400 Switcher serves asa central hub for all of the A/V equipment inthe training facility, with a Matrix 3200Switcher performing the sub-switching. TheMatrix 6400 receives raw video inputs fromPCs, DVD players, VCRs, terrestrialbroadcasts (HDTV), a DSS satellite receiver,local video cameras, and CODECs. Thematrix switcher can route any of theseinputs to any of the projectors or retro boxesthroughout the facility. Any of the inputscan be switched through image processingdevices, such as line doublers, linequadruplers, scalers, and scan converters.

The training center draws all of its powerfrom a dedicated, isolated source. Thisensures that all of the video displays in thetraining center are free of the hum bars andcommon mode noise caused by improperequipment grounding.

This year, ICIA is scheduled to conductInstallation, Rental, System Design, andFacility Design schools at the new Extronfacility. The ICIA classes, which begin on July9th, 2000, will bring critical A/V trainingcloser to home for West Coast A/Vprofessionals.

Extron’s new training center greatlyincreases our ability to deliver theintensive training our customers need. In theUnited States and Canada alone, Extronanticipates training over 2,000 A/Vprofessionals in the year 2000, either atExtron School in Anaheim, at Extron SchoolOn The Road in cities across North America,or during distance learning sessions tailoredto meet your specific needs. Besides itshome in Anaheim, California; Extron Schoolis also available in Europe and Asia. Toregister for Extron School, either On TheRoad or at our new training facility,contact Dayna Kleemann at 714.491.1500,extension 6350.

Extron thanks the following companies fortheir generous

contributions tothe S3 Technical

Institute trainingfacility

Barco•

Christie Digital Systems•

Crestron•

Da-Lite•

Digital Projection•

Display Devices•

Elmo•

Hoover & Keith•

McKay Conant Brook, Inc.•

NEC•

Panja•

Plus•

Premier Mounts•

Racks by Geovani•

Real Time Services•

Samsung•

Smart Technologies•

Sony•

Stewart


1360 x 765. Also offered are HDTV 480p,720p, and 1080p output rates.

RGB signals are passed through. Forswitches between sources, Triple-ActionSwitching™ (RGB delay) eliminates visibleswitching transitions to enhance theprofessional look of presentations. Triple-Action Switching blanks the screen when theSystem 7SC switches to a new source.

A/V INPUTS AND OUTPUTSThe System 7SC provides a total of seven

inputs. It offers quad-standard videodecoding compatibility (NTSC 3.58, NTSC4.43, PAL, and SECAM) as well as theadvantage of accepting interlaced orprogressive YUV signals, including HDTV480p, 720p, and other such signals for up-scaling. Using BNCs, six of the inputs areconfigurable for composite video, S-video,component video, or RGB. Located on thefront panel, the seventh input acceptscomposite video on a RCA connector, S-video on a 4-pin mini-DIN connector, orcomputer-video on a 15-pin HD connector.This makes it convenient to connect a laptop,camera, or DVD player directly, withoutaccessing the back of the switcher. Also, theSystem 7SC is able to control and acceptsignals from a slaved switcher on input #1.The output signal is simultaneously availableon a 15-pin HD connector and five BNCs. All

Switcher & Video Scaler Combination ProvidesConvenient System Control of Presentations

Extron’s new System 7SC is a

seven input, dual output,

multi-format switcher with a

built-in video scaler.

The Extron System 7SC features projectorand room control along with RGB & videointegration capabilities ideal for rental,staging, and permanent installations usingplasma displays as well as CRT, LCD, and DLPprojectors. This system switcher providesvideo scaling, which uses Extron’s latest up-conversion technologies with DMI (DynamicMotion Interpolation) to match the rates andresolutions of video inputs to the highernative resolution of today’s fixed matrixdisplays. Projector and room control,universal compatibility with displays, andaudio switching capabilities are also offered.

VIDEO SCALING AND SWITCHINGTo optimize image quality as well as

maintain maximum image brightness anddetail, video inputs need to be scaled toprogressive scanning RGB resolutions thatmatch the “sweet spot” or native resolutionof the digital display being used. Usingadvanced digital video scaling technologies,the System 7SC scales any video input,including any interlaced or progressiveYUV signal, to one of thirteen commoncomputer-video, progressive HDTV, orplasma resolutions.

The System 7SC includes Extron’s newlydeveloped Dynamic Motion Interpolation(DMI) scaling technology. DMI is an advancedmotion prediction and compensation methodused to deliver the best aspects of still andmotion algorithms. The DMI process results ina new level of image enhancement capabilitywith no loss of image fidelity.

The System 7SC offers industry standardcomputer-video output rates: 640 x 480, 800x 600, 832 x 624, 1024 x 768, 1280 x 1024,and 1360 x 1024. For plasma displays, theSystem 7SC provides plasma output rates:848 x 480, 852 x 480, 1280 x 768, and

RGB inputs are passed through, while allvideo and progressive HDTV signals arescaled.

For balanced/unbalanced stereo audio, theSystem 7SC offers 3.5 mm captive screwinput and output connectors as well as audioattenuation/gain adjustments for each inputprovided. Audio breakaway is availablethrough RS-232 only. Audio breakawayallows a user to switch audio from one inputsource and video from a different inputsource to the same output destination. It isused when the audio and video sourcescomprising a presentation are not generatedby the same source.

PROJECTOR, ROOM, AND SWITCHERCONTROL

The System 7SC can be programmed forprojector control. Universal projector controlis possible through programming viadownloadable RS-232 or IR drivers, IRlearning capabilities, or user-defined RS-232commands. The System 7SC offers twomethods for configuring the switcher forprojector control. Using the first method, theSystem 7SC uses RS-232 or IR drivers,including the downloadable, pre-configureddrivers similar to those designed for theSystem 5cr Plus. Using the second method,the user determines which IR or RS-232commands to associate with the user-


defined buttons. IR commands may belearned through the System 7SC’s user-friendly IR learning capabilities, which makeit compatible with almost every type of IR-controllable display device. For RS-232commands, Extron’s Simple Instruction Set™is provided for RS-232 control via Extron’sWindows®-based control program or third-party control.

Trigger signals to control room lighting,screen settings, and other device controllerfunctions may be controlled through theSystem 7SC’s room function, using internalrelays. Relays may be controlled from thefront panel, included IR 70 remote(included), or RS-232 control.

System switcher control is provided viafront panel operation, IR 70, or RS-232. Thefront panel buttons control video and audioinput selection; picture adjustments; displayfunctions such as power, mute, video modes;

and internal relays for room controls, such aslowering or raising a display screen orpowering lights on or off. Picture controlsinclude horizontal and vertical shift, color,tint, brightness, contrast, detail (imagesharpness), and top & bottom verticalblanking. Variable vertical blankingadjustments allow a user to mask noise thatoccasionally appears at the top and bottomof a processed image or to crop unneededportions of an image. The IR 70 duplicatesthe front panel functions for normaloperation. For mobile control from any partof the room—useful for a presenter ormeeting facilitator—the IR 70 providesinfrared remote control. All functions are alsoavailable through RS-232.

ETC.With a video bandwidth of 350 MHz

(-3dB), the System 7SC maintains origional

System 7SC

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signal integrity ensuring optimal signalhandling. An executive mode locks out allfunctions except basic switching and controlcommands; (all functions are still availablethrough RS-232 control). The System 7SCincludes an IR 70 remote control, a 50’Universal Projector Control (UC) Cable, a 9-pin male to male gender changer, and a rack-mounting kit. It is housed in a 2U high, oneEIA rack width, metal enclosure.

System 7SC

Part Number Price60-340-01 $4995.00*

URL:www.extron.com/system7sc* Prices valid for U.S. Sales Only.

Following the grandopening of Extron’s newtraining facility duringINFOCOMM 2000 (June15–17), we will be

extending our support toICIA by hosting their

Installation School, SystemsDesign School, Facilities Design School, and RentalSchool during the year 2000.

Extron’s new training center, called the “S3 TechnicalInstitute,” will give dealers in the western U.S. theopportunity to earn their CTS certification withouthaving to fly to Fairfax, Virginia. The 5000 square foottraining facility consists of a state-of-the-art classroom,two videoconference rooms, a computer-based trainingroom, a studio, and a theater for large grouppresentations and hands-on training.


As an ICIA member and one of the foundingsponsors of the ICIA Rental School, Extron has beencommitted to supporting ICIA’s training efforts throughthe donation of time, funds, equipment andinstructors. Also, Extron instructors have taught allphases of the technical schools since their inception.

In addition to ICIA training, Extron will continue toprovide the highest-quality training directly to thedealers, consultants, and manufacturers in theaudio/visual industry through our well known ExtronSchool, Extron School on the Road, videoconferencetraining, Internet-based training, and, of course, ourseminars at all of the major trade shows.

For more information on the educational offeringsfrom Extron, please contact your Extron CustomerSupport Representative at 800.633.9876.

As an industry leader in education and training, Extron is pleased to

announce that it will be the West Coast training site for several of

the advanced Academy courses presented by the International

Communications Industries Association, Inc. (ICIA).

Extron to Host ICIA West Coast Trainingin New S3 Technical Institute Training Facility

H O T L I N E

by Jeff Gibson, Vice President of Sales

• ICIA Installation School ......................July 9-14CTS-I Testing ......................................July 15-16

• ICIA Systems Design School................September 24-28CTS-D Testing ....................................September 29-30

• ICIA Facilities Design School ..............October 22-26

• ICIA Rental School ..............................December 10-15

2000

ICIA Academy at Extron’s S3 Technical Institute

Rich Hanna joins Extron as RegionalApplications Specialist, Southeast. Rich isresponsible for the training and support ofExtron’s Southeast dealers. He instructs at ExtronSchool, Extron School On the Road, tradeshowand industry seminars, and regional dealershows. Rich brings over two decades ofextensive engineering, installation, and trainingexperience with broadcast and professionalvideo products. He has worked at SonyElectronics, Inc., Martin Marietta Aerospace, andthe United States Air Force.


Extron’s Internal Promotions

Jeff Gibson has been promoted to VicePresident of Sales. He oversees all sales andtechnical support for Extron in the USA, Europe,and Asia offices. Also, Jeff is strategicallyinvolved with product development, marketing,and building the sales force in all three areas tosecure the future of Extron in all of ourgeographical markets. His efforts especiallyemphasize building the Europe and Asia salesinfrastructures.

Jeff Gibson

Extron Asia Has Moved!

Extron Asia is now located in a new, 15,000 square foot facility inSingapore. This added capacity will help Extron Asia provide the

service, support, and solutions to meet your needs!

Now Extron Asia Customer Support Representatives maybe reached at these numbers:

Phone number: +65.383.4400Fax number: +65.383.4664... and this address:135 Joo Seng Road, #04-01, PM Industrial BuildingSingapore 368363

Note: Extron Asia's former phone number (+65.226.0015)will remain operational during the month of June.

Lee Dodson has been promoted to VicePresident of Marketing. In this position, heoversees Extron's marketing activities in the USA,Europe, and Asia. Lee has been instrumental inthe development of Extron’s marketing efforts.As Vice President of Marketing, Lee will focus onstrengthening Extron’s market leadership bothdomestically and internationally.

Lee Dodson

As Extron’s Marketing CommunicationsManager, Mark Rosney is responsible for thecreation and maintenance of consistent andeffective communications about Extron’s productlines. Mark brings over ten years of marketingcommunications experience in a variety of industries, including healthcare,pharmaceuticals, and computers. He recentlyspent four years at Toshiba, where he held avariety of marketing-related positions, includingMarketing Communications Manager for theComputer Systems Division.

Mark Rosney

Rich Hanna

Extron Welcomes NewMembers to the Team


Through Extron, I have lived with theShoot-Out now for nine of its twelve years. Inrecent years, International CommunicationsIndustries Association (ICIA) expanded thereach of INFOCOMM worldwide. Thisproduced many more Shoot-Outs in othercountries such that INFOCOMM 2000 marksthe 20th event…and, my 17th experience.Please join me here for an inside look at whatit takes to produce the INFOCOMM ProjectionShoot-Out.

Back When…Most beginnings are humble and the Shoot-

Out is no exception. Back in 1988 a fewproduct managers of some prominent projectormanufacturers got together informally andbrainstormed about the concept of gettingtogether a side-by-side comparison exhibitionof their projector technology. At that time, theonly reasonably priced commercial projectorswere CRT projectors.

In CRT projection, the technicaldifferences were there and changingregularly at a rapid pace. The INFOCOMMShow of 1989 debuted the transition of theorganization’s name from NAVA to ICIA. TheProjection Shoot-Out was the talk of theshow…everybody, including me, went to see

the exhibition of 24 CRT projectors in oneroom. The Shoot-Out was staged in the CBallroom of the Dallas Convention Center.

Many people ask me why the event iscalled a “shoot-out”. The reshaping of thetrade organization and the first side-by-sideprojector comparison happened at that 1989Dallas, Texas show. Imre Cseszar, then theowner of Covid, was the first technicalcoordinator as well as the committeechairman for the group of manufacturersthat coalesced the first event. Many of us inthe industry can remember Imre donning acowboy’s outfit and wearing a pair of “sixshooters” to commemorate the first “Shoot-Out” in Dallas. The event needed a nameand what better name than somethingwestern that connotes the ultimate standoffbetween opponents.

The Shoot-Out at Dallas was talked aboutnearly continuously during the show. Thenext INFOCOMM landed in Anaheim,California. Once again, most showattendees wandered around the display ofprojector technology staged in the Anaheimarena. There was a modest increase in thenumber of participants, but I have to admit Idon’t remember how many. The next year,1991, the show moved to Orlando, Florida.Again, the Shoot-Out hummed with interestand attendees. Sometime after the close ofthe third Shoot-Out, Imre decided that hewanted to pursue other interests. Theamount of effort and attention to detail werebecoming overwhelming. Managing theentire Shoot-Out is difficult when you have40 or more unique customers to satisfy. Theagenda for the annual Shoot-Out meeting inTempe, Arizona in September of 1991included the selection of a new sponsoringcompany and Shoot-Out Chairman.

This began Extron’s support role as we

Championing the INFOCOMM Projection Shoot-Out®

T E C H N I C A L L Y S P E A K I N G . . .

by Steve Somers, Vice President of Engineering

To me, the Shoot-Out is a kind of chronicle of the history of large

screen projection technology. Now in its twelfth year, the Shoot-Out

remains almost an institutional aspect of INFOCOMM International, the

champion trade exhibition of the professional audio-visual market.


were selected by the committee to carry onafter Imre. The INFOCOMM show scheduleback then cycled from Jan/Feb annually. Thechange to the June show dates did not occuruntil 1994. Being chosen to support theShoot-Out in September with the showcoming up in January meant we really had tohustle to be ready. There was a myriad oftasks to do including creation of newsoftware, design of the distribution system,ordering of equipment, borrowing ofspecialized equipment, and coordinationwith ICIA on all entries and show plans. The1992 INFOCOMM show, our first Shoot-Out,was held in Washington, D.C.

Early PlanningPlanning for the Shoot-Out starts about

eight to ten months prior to the show date.The show venue is known and, initially, thereis a review of the site plan to see if the Shoot-Out will be appropriately accommodated. Atleast two trips to the site for detailed reviewand planning with convention staff takeplace during the months prior. Usually theannual Shoot-Out Committee meeting takesplace at the coming show venue. Thisfacilitates an understanding of facility detailsand issues among participating equipmentmanufacturers. It also serves as anopportunity for me to review details of theShoot-Outs unique requirements with allaffected convention staff. One of the primarycontacts made at that point is pursuit of arelationship with the electrician staff. Detailsof the convention center wiring arereviewed, drawings obtained, and generalrequirements of the event presented.

Back at Extron, the task of sourcing imagematerial begins. Many of the images used inthe show come from prominent stock photolibraries. Others come from donated sourcessuch as Intergraph’s annual Golden Mousegraphics competition, ARC Sciences, WilliamMunns, CAD designs submitted by membersof ICIA’s Design Consultants Council,collages of scanned objects, and others.Selection of graphics and photo images takesseveral weeks. For each photo or graphicselected to be in the Shoot-Out Software, Ipersonally review approximately 300 images.Selecting imagery for the Shoot-Out requiresan eye for not only high technical quality, butalso an understanding of image attributes

that challenge video processing andreproduction in display devices.

Two distinct sets of image files are createdfor the Shoot-Out. The total collection ofimages under consideration for theINFOCOMM show is assembled first forinclusion within the official software CD.From this group of images (usually about 50),I select the final twenty images that will beused in the Shoot-Out’s rotating imagepresentation. I call this group of images the“show file.” Facilitating this productionprocess is Jim Taylor of JVC Technology. Jimhas assisted me annually in this activity since1994. Once all the images for the CD areselected, Jim makes all final adjustments toaspect ratio, cropping, resolution labeling(this must be manually added in the lowercorner of each one individually), and creationfor each of the eight different resolutionsused within the CD and the show files. Inaddition, Ray Soneira of DisplayMateTechnologies provides test signal support. Heand I review the test signal needs of theShoot-Out annually and make changes thatchallenge the displays.

Preliminary CDs with a collection ofprobable images are mastered and sent toparticipants about one month before the

show date. This provides an opportunity forall manufacturers to test their products withimages likely to be used in the Shoot-Out.

The final software CD includes allresolution groups used in the Shoot-Out plussome bonuses. In recent years, bonuses haveincluded past show images, a collection of“The Best of the Shoot-Out”, and image filesin widescreen formats. The widescreenformats have fostered the ability ofmanufacturers to see their products performwith imagery specifically designed to showoff new widescreen technology.

Producing the ProductPutting the Shoot-Out together at show

time is yet another project. Prior to showsetup, all entry information is reviewedseveral times, formatted for the Supplementthat each attendee may pick up at the show,and coordinated with the floor plan. As allentries are typically arranged within a givengroup by specific criteria, the finalarrangement is in ascending order by price.Entrants do not know their position in theshow until arrival for setup. All Shoot-Outproduct entry information must be carefullyreviewed to make sure that no discrepancies

continued on next page


Attendees comparing images at the Shoot-Out.


exist as it can affect the final arrangement ofproducts on the floor.

Once the basic floor plan is designed, itmust be reviewed for compliance with alllocal fire safety codes. The appropriate firemarshal must approve the layout before ourarrival at the site for setup. All plans are usedto provide the necessary information forshow decorators and other supportpersonnel such as the electricians who mustwire power to each projector stage and alldistribution and control equipment. Allinformation for the Supplement is sent forprinting. At that point, no changes to theplan can be made.

No two Shoot-Outs are the same. We’vereturned to the same convention center sitesfor several shows, but each show always hasits nuances due to growth, rearrangement ofevents, etc. This means that each Shoot-Outevent is treated just like it is a brand newexperience. All of the same concerns andattention to detail must be considered.

Our engineering group drafts all plans forlayout on CAD. Prior to arrival at the site, allphysical layout drawings, equipmentinventory, show sequence, personnelarrangement, and other unique details arecompiled into a manual that is distributed toall our staff supporting setup. Every technicianand engineer working with us has a “fullblueprint” of the operation. Prior site surveysallow us to establish the placement of allcomponents of the event down to the foot.

Setup for the domestic show begins at 8 a.m. six days before the show opens. TheStewart Filmscreen team supervises theconstruction of most all the large screens forthe event. Typically, all screens go up on thefirst day. This sets the boundaries of thelayout such that the decorator staff knowsthe positioning of drapes and otherboundaries. The electrical staff begins the ACwiring. The Extron staff breaks into teams,each taking one or more groups of the layoutand collecting all the cabling and equipmentto wire video signals for each designatedarea.

The Right Tools For The JobEach group of projectors or converters is

wired as a unique distribution system of itsown. The head end is the graphics computergenerating pixel rates of up to 150 MHz. All

interface and distribution components are300 MHz (-3dB) video bandwidth minimum.Typically, the computer feeds abuffer/amplifier specially built for the Shoot-Out having pre-emphasis compensation forthe 100-foot length cables extended to eachparticipant. This amp is a combination GLI350 and ADA x/300 with level and peakingcontrols. This is one of the instrumental stepsin minimizing ground loop issues. In the lineis an SW6 ARMX HV that is used to switchbetween the two computers in the group.Remember, we have two resolutions suppliedto each category in the Shoot-Out. There willbe one downstream ADA 6 300 HV used todrive all of the final DAs in the chain. Afterthis DA, we fan out with up to six other ADA 6s to complete the drive array, thus,providing up to 36 outputs for the group. Sofar, this has been sufficient for our purposes.The largest single group of projectors in onecluster was 31 in 1997.

For projector groups at 1024x768 resolutionand less, we use our BNC-5 HR 100’ cable todeliver RGBHV signals to each projector. Forresolutions using 1024x768 and above, we useSHR-5 100’ cables. All NTSC composite videofeeds and HDTV feeds are made using eitherBNC-4 HR 100’ or BNC-5 HR 100’ cable. Thisis done because we use one coax for the videosignal (three for the HD analog componentfeed) and one other one for the contactclosure line supplied to support formatswitching in case the participant does not haveauto-switching inputs. Signal levels are pre-emphasized so that we have proper level andhigh frequency response at each destination.Our engineers develop at least two teams thatreview every single destination with awideband oscilloscope.

All NTSC and HD sources are located inthe Control Room. Here, digital discrecorders from QuVIS process digital signalsto the required analog formats and connectto our CrossPoint 1616 Switcher. TheCrossPoint Series has bandwidth far inexcess of the minimums needed forcomposite NTSC and high definition videosources. Extron’s BNC HR cable is usedthroughout the Control Room wiring. TheCrossPoint creates the optimum point forcontrol and distribution of input fornominally 12 fiber optic transmitters. Fromthese transmitters, fiber cables run outward

to all points requiring these formats. Locally,in each projector category, an opticalreceiver is located. The receiver restores theelectrical signal without any measurabledegradation. The receiver output isconnected to a local ADA 6 providing therequired head end. Like the graphics signalchain, one DA provides the head end for asecond group of DAs that provide all therequired outputs.

Getting It Under ControlBy the second day, the Crestron team

begins all wiring for the control system. Theirequipment is paired with each location of thegraphics computers that generate the high-resolution images in each group. Recently,wiring design changes in the control systemallowed for the implementation of Ethernettype networking between all Crestroncontrol components. Furthermore, thisnetwork is connected to our Control Roomlocation via the same fiber optic cables weuse to deliver high quality NTSC and HDvideo to the floor.

The next days involve video and controlwiring details, placement of risers andstaging for projectors, completion of powerwiring detail, Control Room wiring, signplacement, setup of the Shoot-Outclassroom, and signal testing. By themorning of the fourth day, participants candeliver their products for staging in the area.Prior to this time, the area is open only toICIA, Extron, Stewart, and Crestronpersonnel along with the show decoratingstaff. The fifth and sixth days are devoted tosupporting all participants as they set up andprepare for the event. The complexity of therotating and changing software programrequires a detailed setup schedule just fordelivery of test signals and trial runs neededby the participants to ensure full operation oftheir products with the program.

Each morning for one and a half hoursbefore the show opens, participants maycome in to turn on their equipment, test, andadjust it for the show opening that day. Noadjustments to products are allowed duringthe exhibit hours. Repairs and adjustmentsmay commence in the evening followingclose of the show each day. Should acatastrophic failure of a product occur, theparticipating company is notified and literally




given five minutes to attempt revival orreplacement of the product. Inability torestart a product means it must stay OFF forthe rest of the day. Only one productreplacement is allowed for the duration ofthe entire INFOCOMM show.

What’s New?For the year 2000, the Shoot-Out is

reorganized into an applications-orientedevent. Projector groups are arranged by newcriteria including weight and/or light output.The setting will guide attendees towardproducts best suited for business officeapplications, large audience applications, highdefinition video applications, high definition

large audience, and self-contained standardformat as well as widescreen format displays.The graphics resolutions are centered on thosemost widely used today versus the pastsmorgasbord of stepped display resolutions.Additional high definition material will beavailable in 720p so that attendees maycompare it to the 1080i material traditionallyshown. An entirely new category of display hasbeen introduced this year: large Area LEDdisplays will make their debut.

A Life Of Its OwnThe effects of the Shoot-Out are larger than

the sum of its parts. It’s difficult to measure thevalue of this great event. More than 90% of

attendees approve of the Shoot-Out as ameaningful experience toward theirunderstanding of projection and video processingwhen making purchase decisions, according to arecent survey conducted by ICIA. I have seen theevolution of a projection industry based totallyupon CRT technology to one now barely in needof CRT technology. Still, the Shoot-Out provides apremier setting for the comparison of the newwith the old in a grand scheme that is nearlyoverwhelming with the sheer number of productson display. The sun has risen and set on varioustechnological innovations over the past 12 years.As for me, I think the Shoot-Out will continue todeliver a very valuable experience to all who takethe time to absorb what it has to offer.

• More than 2000 man-hours areexpended between ICIA staff, SteveSomers, and the other partnersbefore the show opens.

• Steve Somers spends about 200hours reviewing and selectingimagery.

• Approximately 12,000 images (pho-tos and graphics) are researched tocreate the Shoot-Out CD.

• Production of the movie/video seg-ments of the show software requirescoordination and licensing of digitally mastered mate-rials from most major movie stu-dios.

• About 40 different display manufacturers worldwide partici-pate in the Shoot-Out.

• The Shoot-Out typically displaysmore than 100 projectors.

• Two or more meetings with manu-facturers take place annually to coordinate the featuresand rules of the event.

• It takes about twenty computers todeliver all the high-resolutiongraphics.

• The graphics computers are coordi-nated with about 10 to 15 Crestroncontroller/computers.

• NTSC video and high definitionvideo each require a high speeddigital, D1 compatible disk recordercosting about $50,000 each.

• All backbone video distributionequipment, controller equipment,and screens are valued at $1.25 mil-lion.

• More than 80 Extron ADA 6 distribution amplifiers are in use.

• More than 100,000 lumens are pro-duced by all the displays. Power tooperate all projectors and supportequipment is estimated at 650 kilo-watts.

• Typically 12 fiber optic circuits areneeded to deliver NTSC and HDsignals to all points on the floor soas to eliminate power ground loops.Each fiber optic run is between 600and 1000 feet in length with eachhaving 6–8 fiber “conductors”.

• Each projector or converter dis-played receives an equal-length,dedicated BNC-5 HR or SHR-5 cablefeed from the point of origination.

• Approximately 15,000 feet (3 miles) of bundled Extron HR andSHR coaxial cable provides a total of105,000 feet (about 20 miles) ofunique signal connections to all theprojectors and converters.

• It typically takes the entire Shoot-Out team of about 16 (10 whichare from Extron) about 8 hours totear down the event.

• The average setup workday per per-son is 12 hours and approximately26 people are involved in the tech-nical setup.

• Once all the Shoot-Out computers,video sources, and control systemare powered ON, they run continu-ously 24 hours per day until theshow closes.

• The arrangement of the show soft-ware is designed around a 10minute repeating cycle. The designis such that if any signal source fails,another is switched in so that theshow is uninterrupted.

• Once the Shoot-Out show softwaresequence is operational and fullyfunctioning, the control systemoperates it automatically withoutany intervention.

INTERESTING SHOOT-OUT STATS


U N I Q U E T E C H N I Q U E S

Extron’s cutting-edge S3 TechnicalInstitute Training Facility debuted duringINFOCOMM 2000. With this expansion,Extron reinforces an ongoingcommitment to provide unparalleleddealer support through A/V educationand training. The training centerfeatures a comprehensive A/V trainingroom, a fully equipped theater, acomputer-based training room, twostate-of-the-art videoconference rooms,and a control room.

The genius of the training centerdesign is connectivity; any of over 100video sources can be switched to anyone or all outputs throughout the sixrooms. This capability allows anyone inany room to conveniently send orreceive A/V signals no matter where thephysical A/V devices are located. Thetraining facility’s connectivity is madepossible by Extron Matrix 6400Switchers, the central hub of the overallA/V system.

CONTROLLING THE A/V SYSTEMEach room offers a touchpanel screen

for control. Three of the rooms arecontrolled by one control system and arelinked using an Ethernet/LANconnection. The other three rooms arecontrolled by a second system. Thecontrol systems communicate with eachother via serial communications throughthe control room.

MATRIX SWITCHINGThe Matrix 6400 works with multiple

subswitchers: an Extron Matrix 3200and multiple CrossPoint MatrixSwitchers. The Matrix 6400 Wideband,Video, and Audio switchers routeRGBHV, component video, compositevideo, and stereo audio. A Matrix 3200Video routes S-video and stereo audiosignals. The Matrix 6400 and Matrix3200 Switchers are matrix switcherscomprised of basic module enclosures(BMEs), which enable the routers to beexpanded as needed to meet systemneeds. For example, the Matrix 6400dedicated to routing RGBHV and audiosignals is made up of three widebandBMEs (for the red, green, blue signals),two sync BMEs for horizontal andvertical sync, and an audio BME. Aseparate Matrix 6400 Video BME routescomposite video signals. The CrossPointsroute RGB video and stereo audiosignals.

The matrix switchers route the audioand video together or separately usingaudio follow or audio breakaway. Audiofollow allows the presenter to switchaudio and video together from the sameinput source to the same outputdestination. Audio breakaway allows thepresenter to switch audio from oneinput source and video from a differentinput source to the same outputdestination. Audio breakaway is used

Making Connections in Extron’s NewTraining Facility

Extron’s new world-class training center is the heart of Extron’s S3

Technical Institute. The facility supports Extron’s educational efforts,

including Extron School, Extron School On The Road, Extron Distance

Learning, dealer training, and internal training.

The rack of Extron's Matrix 6400

Switchers in the Training Center.


when the audio and video sourcescomprising a presentation are notgenerated by the same source, such as acomputer-generated presentation withunderlying compact disc audio. Thematrix switchers work with an audiomatrix switcher so mic-level as well asline-level audio feeds can be used. Theaudio matrix switcher acts as the audiosystem for audio distribution throughoutthe training facility.

SOURCES AND DESTINATIONSSources include a DVD player,

computers, VCRs, DSS satellite receiver,cameras, and video conference CODECs.Wall plates and floor boxes located invarious rooms send RGB video andstereo audio to a CrossPoint 1616HVAor directly to the Matrix 6400. Thesefloor boxes and wall plates are input aswell as output locations for A/V signals.They are placed throughout the trainingfacility to maximize connectionconvenience and aesthetic integrationinto the environment. For example,students at a table in the middle of theA/V training room are able to sendlaptop signals to the presentationdisplay using the floor boxes.Simultaneously, students are also able toreceive signals from the rack-mountedDVD player or other source for their localdisplays using the same floor boxes.

Video sources can be processed asneeded for optimal display; the A/Vracks hold a variety of Extron’s signalprocessing equipment: VSC 200 scanconverters, Lanciaxi line doubler,Sentosaxi line quadrupler, DDS 100 andDVS 150 scalers, and CVC 200 HDTV or

component video-to-RGB converter. TheVSC 200 converts RGB video tocomposite video and S-video for routingby the composite and S-video matrixswitchers. For optimal image quality andmaximum image brightness and detail,the DDS 100 up-scales and down-scalescomputer-video inputs to match thenative resolution of the center’s digitaldisplays, which include a variety of LCDs,DLPs, and plasma displays. Similarly, theDVS 150 up-scales NTSC, PAL, orSECAM video sources to the nativeresolution of the appropriate displaydevice. The CVC 200 convertscomponent video and HDTV video toRGBHV video. Extron’s VTG 200 testpattern generator is also used togenerate test patterns for setting up anyof the projectors or displays in thetraining center.

Signal destinations include floorboxes, wall plates, monitors, projectors,

and plasma displays throughout thetraining center.

TAKING EXTRON TRAINING TO THENEXT LEVEL

Extron’s Senior ApplicationsEngineer, Luis Maldonado, CTS, servedas the assistant project lead for theinstallation of the new training center.He enthused, "I’m excited about thenew training facility, especially whatthe rooms will provide to establish ourtraining, build relationships, anddevelop new opportunities."

The simplicity of this A/V systemmakes it remarkable. It is easy to usewhile providing the capability to switchany input to any output. And theadded capacity and technologicaladvantages help Extron deliver thehigh-quality A/V education andtraining dealers expect from us.

The installation of Extron's RGB 558 interface.

Architectural Adapter Plates provide convenient signal pass-through connectors.

U N I Q U E T E C H N I Q U E S


Extron’s CrossPoint Plus Series matrixswitchers combine the most popular featuresof the original CrossPoint Series with thesenewly added features: 450 MHz (-3dB),minimum, ultra-wideband video bandwidth;Digital Sync Validation Processing™; I/Ogrouping; front panel I/O label windows;view I/O mode; audio attenuation/gain;Triple-Action Switching™; and front panelsecurity lock-out. The high performanceCrossPoint Plus Series matrix switchers areideal for ultra wideband, analog high-resolution computer-video applicationsrouting RGsB, RGBS, or RGBHV video signalsand lower-resolution video. This series isavailable in the following fixedconfigurations: 8 x 4, 8 x 8, 12 x 4, 12 x 8,16 x 8, and 16 x 16. The CrossPoint PlusSeries offers ideal “single box” solutions torouting applications requiring uncom-promised video bandwidth.

Optimized for resolutions from 1280 x 1024and up, the CrossPoint Plus Series maintainsoriginal signal integrity with its 450 MHz (-3dB) video bandwidth, fully loaded.Extron's exclusive DSVP verifies active sourcesby scanning all inputs for active sync signals.DSVP then transmits the horizontal andvertical scan rate information to the user viaany type of control system using RS-232/422commands. Using RS-232/422 communi-cations, a user may monitor the status of thematrix switcher’s sources remotely.

The CrossPoint Plus Series also providesexcellent isolation between channels andextremely low electromagnetic emissions.This security feature is perfect for minimizingsignal leakage in high security or governmentenvironments. I/O grouping allows the matrixto be virtually divided into smaller sub-switchers, making installation and controleasier. I/O grouping conveniently allowsspecific outputs—such as those designated

CrossPoint PlusSeries

Ultra-wideband Matrix Switchers

for a specific video format—to be groupedtogether for convenient wiring andswitching.

Front panel I/O buttons may easily belabeled by any Brother® P-Touch™ labeler orby Extron’s label software, which ships withevery Extron matrix switcher. Each input andoutput can be labeled with names,alphanumeric characters, or even colorbitmaps for easy and intuitive input andoutput selection. Available from the frontpanel or through RS-232/422, the view I/Omode allows you to easily see whichindividual inputs and outputs are activelyconnected.

Triple-Action Switching™ (RGB delay)blanks the screen when the matrix switcherswitches to a new source. The new syncsignals precede the RGB signals, allowing thedisplay time to lock to the new signal, sothere is no glitch shown during thetransition. The time delay between the RGBand sync signals is user adjustable up to fiveseconds. The CrossPoint Plus Series allowsusers to set the level of audio gain orattenuation (-15dB to +9dB) via RS-232/422or from the front panel. Individual inputaudio levels may be adjusted so there are nonoticeable volume differences betweensources. If a CrossPoint Plus Series switcher isinstalled in an unsecured environment whereeasy access is not desirable, an optionalsecurity lock-out feature may be used.During lock-out mode, a special buttoncombination is required to operate the frontpanel controller.

N E W P R O D U C T S F R O M E X T R O N

CrossPoint Plus 84HVA






CrossPoint Plus Series

Please call Extron for part numbers and prices.

URL:www.extron.com/crosspointplus


Extron’s new family of Category 5 products is a versatile class of twisted pair transmitters andreceivers that distribute computer RGB video and audio, and/or composite video and stereo audiousing CAT 5 unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable. With products designed specifically for theprofessional A/V industry, which include features like computer video and audio interfaces,multiple mounting options, and transmitters designed to be powered by their receivers, systemintegrators and designers now have new options for signal transmission and distribution. Theseproducts provide reliable video performance, transmitting 640 x 480 video up to 1000 feet or1600 x 1280 video up to 200 feet with minimal loss of signal integrity.

CAT 5 cabling is a fraction of the size of coaxial cable, as well as being much lighter, moreflexible, and less expensive. Termination of the CAT 5 cable with RJ-45 connectors is simple,quick, and economical.

Whether your project includes high-resolution computer or RGB video, composite video, orsome combination of both, the mix-and-match nature of Extron’s CAT 5 products allows you totailor a configuration to meet your individual needs. Five transmitter models and three receivermodels provide flexibility for any video system need.

Cat 5 FamilyRGB Video, Composite Video,

and Stereo Audio Transmitters and Receivers


TransmittersExtron’s CAT 5 T 15HD A Interface Transmitter accepts analog computer video and PC audioand transmits them, via CAT 5 cable, to an Extron CAT 5 RGB video receiver.

The CAT 5 T AV Video Transmitter transmits NTSC/PAL/SECAM composite video and stereoaudio to an Extron CAT 5 composite video receiver. The CAT 5 T AV can transmit composite videoup to 1000 feet, with minimal loss of signal integrity.

Extron’s CAT 5 T 15HD AV Interface/Video Transmitter has all the functionality of both theCAT 5 Interface Transmitter and the CAT 5 Video Transmitter built into one dual-functiontransmitter. It handles both computer video and composite video, transmitting two separate setsof analog signals on two RJ-45 connectors.

The CAT 5 T BNC RGB Video Transmitter is similar to the CAT 5 Interface Transmitter, exceptthat the signal is input on five BNCs rather than a computer video input connector. This unit isfor high-end video, component video (Y, R-Y, B-Y) and S-video.

Extron’s CAT 5 T BNC DA4 Video Distribution Amplifier/Transmitter is similar to the CAT 5Video Transmitter, but with distribution amplifier capabilities. This transmitter splits the video inputinto four outputs and transmits them to four CAT 5 RGB receivers while maintaining image quality.

ReceiversExtron’s CAT 5 R BNC A RGB Receiver receives long distance transmissions of high-end analogRGB video, with or without audio, from one of Extron’s family of RGB or computer videotransmitters, via CAT 5 cable.

The CAT 5 R AV Video Receiver receives long distance transmissions of NTSC/PAL/SECAMcomposite video with or without audio from one of Extron’s family of composite videotransmitters.

Extron’s CAT 5 R BNC AV RGB VideoReceiver has all the functionality of both theCAT 5 RGB Receiver and the CAT 5 VideoReceiver built into one dual-function receiver.It handles both computer video andcomposite video, both with audio, receivingtwo separate sets of analog signals on two RJ-45 connectors.

CAT 5 T 15HD A

CAT 5 T 15HD A

CAT 5 T 15HD AV

CAT 5 T BNC

CAT 5 T BNC DA4

CAT 5 R BNC A

CAT 5 R AV

CAT 5 R BNC AV

CAT 5 Products

Please call Extron for part numbers and prices.

URL:www.extron.com/cat5


Extron’s System 7SC is a seven input, dualoutput, multi-format switcher with a built-invideo scaler and universal projector control.The System 7SC features system controlalong with RGB and video integrationcapabilities ideal for rental, staging, andpermanent installations using plasma displaysas well as CRT, LCD, and DLP projectors. Thissystem switcher provides video scaling, whichuses Extron’s advanced up-conversiontechnologies with DMI (Dynamic MotionInterpolation) to match the rates andresolutions of video inputs, including anyinterlaced or progressive YUV signal, to thehigher native resolution of today’s fixedmatrix displays. For scaled outputs, theSystem 7SC offers twelve industry standardcomputer-video, plasma, and HDTV outputrates. RGB source signals are passed through.

The System 7SC offers quad-standardvideo decoding compatibility (NTSC 3.58,

System 7SCConfigurable Video and ComputerVideo Swicher with Built-In Scaler

NTSC 4.43, PAL, and SECAM) utilizing adigital, four-line adaptive comb filter. Six ofthe inputs are configurable for compositevideo, S-video, component video, or RGB.Conveniently located on the front panel, theseventh input accepts composite video, S-video, or computer-video. Output issimultaneously available on a 15-pin HDconnector and five BNCs. Forbalanced/unbalanced stereo audio, theSystem 7SC offers audio attenuation/gainadjustments for each input.

Projector control is offered viadownloadable RS-232 or IR drivers. TheSystem 7SC also provides user-friendly IRlearning capabilities and allows for user-defined RS-232 commands, making itcompatible with almost any display device.Room lighting, screen settings, and otherdevice functions may be controlled throughthe System 7SC’s room function, via internalrelays.

Extron’s SGS 408 is an eight input, high-resolution RGB video matrix switcher thatprovides seamless cuts, dissolves, wipes, andtitles as well as scaling capabilities to bringprofessional results to live multimedia eventsand presentations. Any large staging, rental,or permanent application benefits from theSGS 408’s switching and transition effectcapabilities. The SGS 408 incorporates twohigh-performance video scalers as well as adigital video mixer. Seamless cuts and twelve,digital, presentation-quality “dissolve,”“wipe,” and “title” effects are provided forswitches between multiple sources to acommon projector.

The SGS 408 accepts both interlaced andnon-interlaced RGB video formats withresolutions from 560 x 384 up to 1600 x 1200with scan rates of 15 kHz up to 100 kHz.Advanced high performance digital videoscaling technologies enable the SGS 408 toscale any input to one of eighteen commoncomputer-video, HDTV, or plasmaresolutions. Two different scaled outputsignals are provided—one for operator

SGS 408Seamless Graphic Switcher

preview and one for the program beingviewed by the audience. Each is availablesimultaneously on five BNCs and a 15-pin HDconnector. The “program” output is alsoavailable on an optional Digital VisualInterface (DVI) connector.

For control, the SGS 408 offers front panelbuttons, RS-232 control, optional RCP 1000remote control panel, and optional ECP 1000 event control panel. The RCP 1000 controls one SGS 408, while theECP 1000 controls up to three SGS 408s,allowing for simultaneous cuts, dissolves,and wipes that are timed and synchronizedon multiple screens.


System 7SC

Part Number:60-340-01

URL:www.extron.com/system7sc

SGS 408

Part Numbers:SGS 408: 60-341-01DVI output option: 70-122-01RCP 1000: 60-343-01ECP 1000: 60-344-01

URL:www.extron.com/sgs408



Extron’s 90º Laptop Breakout Cables(LBCs) with Audio directly connect videoand audio from a laptop or any computerwithout a local monitor to an Extronuniversal interface with audio interfacing.The 90º angle allows for unobtrusiveconnection of the LBC to a wall-mounted or

90º LBC Cable with Audio

Extron’s Plenum BNC-6 Mini HR Cablewith ripcord and sequential numbering offersa single solution to any A/V application withmultiple needs: RGBHV & composite videodistribution, plenum rating, flexibility, andeasy in-field termination. Miniature coaxialcable provides high performance and ease ofinstallation without the bulk of larger sizeconductors. This cable is comprised of six, 26AWG, 75 ohm, color-coded coax conductorsfor RGBHV signal distribution, as well as fora composite video signal.

The Plenum BNC-6 Mini HR Cable’sflexible jacket is constructed with special fireprotectant agents for use in applicationswhere National Electric Code (CL2P) cablemust be installed. Plenum cable can be runthrough open air spaces, eliminating theneed for conduit, so using plenum cable canreduce installation costs. The jacket materialalso provides excellent flexibility formaneuvering through tight spots as well asease of use while rolling or unrolling. To

Plenum BNC-6 Mini HR Cable

maintain signal integrity, the Plenum BNC-6Mini HR Cable provides 75 ohm impedanceand an attenuation measurement of–5.8dB/100ft @ 100 MHz.

The Plenum BNC-6 Mini HR Cable isavailable in bulk spools of 500 feet (153meters) and 1000 feet (306 meters). Aninternal ripcord lowers the likelihood of cabledamage during installation and makesstripping the cable for termination bothquicker and more convenient. Sequentialnumbering is printed at one-foot intervals onthe cable jacket, allowing for quickmeasurement of cable length.

Ripcord

DoubleShieldedFoil and Copper Strand

Sheath

PolyethyleneFoam

Filler

Kynar Jacket

Foil Shield

Six Mini HRCoax Conductors,Center Conductor

26 AWG (stranded)

Plenum BNC-6 Mini HR Cable

Part Numbers:500 foot spool: 22-128-021000 foot spool: 22-128-03

URL:www.extron.com/cables

90º LBC Cable with Audio

Part Numbers:Call Extron for part numbers andpricing.

URL:www.extron.com/cables

tabletop interface. Connector-specific LBCswith Audio are provided for video devicesusing 15-pin HD, 15-pin D, or 13W3connectors. All audio inputs and outputsuse 3.5 mm stereo audio connectors. LBCswith Audio are available in 3’, 6’, or 12’lengths.

Projector

90˚ LBC Cable w/ Audio

Laptop Computer w/ Audio

RGB 500INPUT

POWERAUTO

H. SHIFT

AUDIO

RGB 558 WITH ADSPTM


Extron now offers BNC strain reliefs foruse with Extron’s BNC-5 RC Cable. The RCBNC strain reliefs help to extend the life andperformance of Extron’s BNC-5 Rental Cable.The rough handling that cables are subjectedto in a rental or staging environment cancause significant damage, resulting in pooror inconsistent video performance. The pointat which the cable terminates to theconnector is most vulnerable. But with RCBNC strain reliefs alleviating the stress, youralready durable cables are even less likely tobe damaged.

RC BNC strain reliefs will replace the heatshrink currently used on pre-cut lengths ofthe BNC-5 RC Cable. RC BNC strain reliefshave a professional, sleek design, adding afinished look to your cabling. They are alsoavailable separately as accessory items forbulk cable assembly in different colors: red,

RC BNC Strain Reliefs

green, blue, black, yellow, and an assortmentof colors in one package.


Extron’s CVDA 6 EQ MX is a one input, sixoutput, composite video distributionamplifier with level and equalizationadjustments. The CVDA 6 EQ MX iscompatible with NTSC 3.58, NTSC 4.43, PAL,and SECAM signals. A video signal from anyvideo source, such as a camcorder, VCR, DVDplayer, or laserdisc player, may be distributedas six buffered and amplified outputs. A gainadjustment allows for compensation ofsignal level loss that occurs over long cableruns. An equalization adjustmentcompensates for the high frequency loss.Using the CVDA 6 EQ MX, signal quality canbe maintained over cable runs of 500 feet(152 meters) or more with Extron’s SuperHigh Resolution Cable or cable of equivalentquality. A buffered loop-through is availablefor connecting a second DA or a local

CVDA 6 EQ MXComposite Video

Distribution Amplifier with Level and Equalization

monitor. The rack-mountable CVDA 6 EQ MXis housed in a 1/2 EIA rack width, 1U high,metal enclosure and includes a worldwide,100-240 volt, 50/60 Hz, auto-switchableinternal power supply.

CVDA 6 EQ MX

Part Number Price60-324-01 $640.00*

URL:www.extron.com/cvda6eqmx* Prices valid for U.S. Sales Only.

RC Strain Reliefs

Part Numbers Prices 70-119-01 $35.00*70-119-02 $35.00*70-119-03 $35.00*70-119-04 $35.00*70-119-05 $35.00*70-119-06 $35.00*

URL:www.extron.com/strainrelief* Prices valid for U.S. Sales Only.


R E N T A L & S T A G I N G C O R N E R

To avoid glitches during the transitions, most of themusually use scan converters to convert the computersignals into NTSC or PAL signals so they can switch allof these sources through the production mixer. Thismethod worked well when computer resolutions wereno more than SVGA (800 x 600) or when customerswere not aware of the technologies available.

Today, most PowerPoint presentations are createdwith a resolution of 1024 x 768 or higher. Yet thequality of these computer presentations is sometimesvery poor even when using very high resolutionprojectors like large-venue LCDs or DLPs.

In addition, switching between video and computerinputs at their native resolutions can produce glitchesand extended park periods on screen.

Extron’s new SGS 408, the first eight input, seamlessgraphic switcher, solves all these problems. The SGS 408is designed for staging and rental applications. It entirelyredefines the standard for running professional qualityshows!

To achieve the highest quality presentation on LCD,

Extron’s SGS 408 SystemThe Ultimate Switching Solutions for Staging Applications

Everyone in the staging business has experienced difficulties when switching between

computer and video sources. Video directors are used to production switchers that

allow you to perform cut, dissolve, wipe, and title transitions between all your video

sources. This is why directors become very frustrated when they have to switch between

video images and different computer signals.

DLP, and plasma displays, all inputs must be scaled tothe native resolution of the display. The Extron SGS 408offers 13 different, scaled output resolutions from 640x 480 up to 1360 x 1024. This means that image qualityis optimized and huge time savings are realizedbecause only the single scaled output of the SGS 408 must be adjusted, no matter how many inputsyou may have. Also, by only having to run one RGsB,RGBS, or RGBHV signal to the display—switchingbetween projector inputs is no longer required.

The SGS 408’s internal test patterns enable you toset up a projector only once even if all inputs are notconnected. This means you won't have to wait for thelast speaker’s computer to arrive to be ready forshowtime!

The SGS 408 accepts both interlaced and non-interlaced video formats with resolutions from 560 x 364up to 1600 x 1200 with horizontal scan rates of 15 kHzup to 100 kHz. The need to use an external video scaleror scan converter to ensure compatibility with all yoursources has been eliminated. Eight RGB inputs are

RCP 1000SGS 408 ECP 1000


provided with five BNC connectors each toensure maximum system flexibility.

The SGS 408 is designed as a productionmixer with two preview and two programoutputs, so you can install your equipmentaway from your projection screen and stillhave control of your image. Thanks to theRCP 1000 remote control panel and the ECP1000 event control panel, you have access toall the functions, while your SGS 408 is in arack with your other A/V equipment.

USER FRIENDLY FEATURESSince the display has already been

adjusted using the SGS 408’s internal testpatterns, operation is a breeze. The “crop”pattern on the preview monitor lets yourecreate the exact size of your display.Adjusting any input is now very simple—justposition and size the image to fill yourpattern on the preview monitor and theadjustments are automatically saved. Youcan adjust multiple inputs within minutes.This allows you to adjust any new input onthe fly— especially that last minute laptop ofthe keynote speaker!

By using a preview monitor, you can checkthe signals from the different input sourcesbefore making them visible to the audience!This is especially useful when connectinglaptops, because it allows you to make surethat the laptop’s external video output isactive before switching.

For optimal image quality, you can adjust notonly the size and position, but also contrast,brightness, and horizontal and vertical filteringfor each individual input. You can save all theseadjustments for up to 32 inputs for automaticrecall. On a road show, save your settings on adisk, and just reload those settings at the nextstop, saving you time and effort!

As soon as your inputs are set, the SGS 408 seamless graphic switcher willoperate as an image video switcher. Youselect your input on the preview bus andseamlessly switch the “preview” to the“program” output or choose one of thetwelve transition effects of the SGS 408.

R E N T A L & S T A G I N G C O R N E R

The dissolve effect allows a smoothtransition between any two sources—tooptimize the transition, you can select theduration of the dissolve from 0.2 to 5seconds.

The title effect allows you to “window” inany text or drawing on any video orcomputer source. This is convenient forreplacing a character generator with a PCand any presentation software.

The wipe effect has transition selections ofright to left, left to right, top to bottom,bottom to top, outside to center, and centerto outside. You can select the duration ofthese wipes from 0.2 to 5 seconds.

There is a black button for each set ofinputs. This allows you to cut, wipe, ordissolve to black with any inputs at any time,especially at the beginning or at the end ofthe show, or in case of emergency. Thissignal is generated internally and does notoccupy one of the eight inputs.

There are two freeze buttons, one for thepreview output and one for the programoutput. This allows you to freeze a logo atthe beginning or at the end of the show.

The primary or program output is available

on five BNC’s and a 15-pin HD connector.Program output may also be made availableon an optional Digital Video Interface (DVI)connector.

For control, the SGS 408 provides frontpanel buttons. To help overcome the lack ofspace in most live productions, Extron hasdesigned the RCP 1000, a remote controlpanel which can be placed on the operator’stable while the SGS 408 is located up to1000 feet away, rack mounted near sourceequipment. This is very handy if you need tocontrol several units.

Last but not least, Extron introduces aninnovative event control panel to allowtransition effects across multiple screens. TheECP 1000 enables complete control over thedigital switching effects of up to three SGS 408s, allowing for simultaneous cuts,dissolves, and wipes that are timed andsynchronized on multiple screens. The ECP 1000 also offers Extron’s special T-BarTransition Controller for manual control ofsingle and multi-screen events.

With all these features, Extron’s new SGS 408 is the ultimate gear for successfulstaging events.

E x t r o n ’s S G S 4 0 8 ( c o n t . )

OUTPUT

INPUT

FORMAT

SGI Computer

Projector

ProgramMonitor

PreviewMonitor

SGS 408

BetacamTape Deck

OUTPUT

INPUT

FORMAT

OUTPUT

INPUT

FORMAT

PC ComputerHigh Definition

Input

100-24050/60 H

z

1.2A MAX.

R

1

G

B

H/HV

V

R

1

G

B

H/HV

V

R

1

G

B

H/HV

V

R

INPUTS

1

G

B

H/HV

V

R

1

G

B

H/HV

V

R

1

G

B

H/HV

V

R

1

G

B

H/HV

V

R

1

G

B

H/HV

V

R

PROGRAMOUTPUTS

PROGRAM

PREVIEW

RS-232

PROGRAM

DVI OUT

RCP

G

B

H/HV

V

R

PREVIEW

G

B

H/HV

V

DVD Player

RGB 109xi

CVC 200

CVC 200

CVC 200

RGB 112xi


T E C H C O R N E R

You probably know by now that “CAT 5” refers to twisted pair

wire, and not a rock group or new breed of feline. You prob-

ably also know that CAT 5 is being used to carry video. This leads

many in the AV industry to the wonder about the specifics of

CAT 5. What exactly is CAT 5? How reliable is it for carrying video?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of CAT 5? Let’s start

with answering the first question, “What exactly is CAT 5?”

CAT 5 originated in the computerindustry as a means of carrying data. In

the late 1970s IBM experimented withusing special constructions of twisted pair

wire to carry computer networkcommunications. The wire was much bigger

than the type used today, but it still showed therewere advantages in using wire to carry computer

data. Later it was found that smaller unshieldedtwisted pair (UTP) wire could carry high speed digital

data reliably. Various grades of UTP wire were createdand categorized. The higher the category number, themore stringent the design and manufacturingrequirements, and the higher the possible data rate.The categories are referred to as “category 1”,“category 2”, and so on, but they are typicallyabbreviated as “CAT 1”, “CAT 2”, etc. Here is a list ofthe categories and capabilities as defined by thecomputer industry:

CAT 1: This category had no basic performancecharacteristics specified, and is basically defined astelephone voice-grade copper cable.CAT 2: Capable of a frequency bandwidth of up to 1 megahertz (MHz). It was used on early slow-speed (1-2 Mbps) LAN technologies like Arcnet. CAT 3: CAT 3 was designated as the minimum qualitytwisted-pair cable that would handle 10 Mbps Ethernetand 4/16 Mbps active Token Ring without errors at thedesktop.

The In’s and Out’s of CAT 5Advantages, Disadvantages & Misconceptions Part 1

by Roger McCarten, Product Development Manager

CAT 4: Rated up to 16 Mbps.CAT 5: Typically consists of four pairs of unshieldedtwisted copper wires covered by an outer jacket. It hasa bandwidth speed of 100Mbps. Special constructionmethods are used to ensure category 5 performanceand limit crosstalk in these multiple cables. CAT 5 isprimarily used for Ethernet networks.

Currently, only category 3 and category 5 wire arecommonly used. CAT 5 looks much like the unshieldedtwisted pair wire that is used in the telephone industry.However, as just mentioned, it is made to a morestringent specification. Substituting standard twistedpair “telephone” wire for CAT 5 would decrease systemperformance considerably.

VIDEO TRANSMISSION ON CATEGORY 5It is important to keep in mind that CAT 5 was

developed by the computer industry for transmittingdigital data over computer networks. It was only morerecently that CAT 5 began to be used to carry analogvideo signals. Using CAT 5 for video is not simply amatter of soldering BNC or VGA connectors to the wireand then connecting equipment together. A specialtype of signal (differential analog) is used to make thebest use of CAT 5 wire, in spite of its limitations.To transmit video over CAT 5, a specialtransmitter/interface is needed to convert the video toa differential analog signal that is a better match forCAT 5 wire. At the receiving end a receiver is needed toconvert the differential analog signal back to a videosignal.

There are many misconceptions about using CAT 5for video. To the question “Is CAT 5 wire a good choicefor running video?”, the best answer is “CAT 5 may bea good choice if...” CAT 5 has definite advantages, incertain situations. It also has definite disadvantages, incertain situations. The following page is a list ofadvantages, disadvantages, and misconceptions.

continued on next page

T E C H C O R N E R


-DISADVANTAGESA transmitter and receiver are required— Transmission of video overCAT 5 requires both a transmitter and a receiver for each signal. Bothunits require power, and are considerably more costly than the cable itself.

Performance variations—Compared to coax, CAT 5 impedance ismuch less controlled. Because of this, cable bends can change theperformance of the system. Two cables of the same length will likelyhave a different overall bandwidth. This could result in each colorhaving a different level of sharpness.

Length variations—Say you cut a 500 foot section of CAT 5. The varioustwisted pairs should all have the same length, right? Wrong. There can besignificant length variations between the twisted pairs. If you use thiscable to run red, green, and blue the time delay variations could cause theimage to look unconverged, even on a LCD, DLP, or plasma display.

CAT 5 uses the same connector as computer cable—This makes itrelatively easy to confuse the computer and video connectors. If youplug an A/V CAT 5 cable into a plug for Ethernet, it is very likely thatyou will damage either the A/V hardware or the computer system.

CAT 5 requires special handling—Sharp bends or even semi-sharpbends can degrade system performance. For instance, a cable bendaround a 3" diameter will increase near end crosstalk (NEXT) by 1.9 dB.A bend around a 1" diameter will cause NEXT to increase by 2.1 dB.This is not a problem with coax cable.

No standards—CAT 5 equipment is not standardized. Because of thisyou cannot intermix various manufacturers’ equipment.

A CAT 5 system is easily degraded—The figure below shows a CAT5 system where a computer is attached to a CAT 5 transmitter. Asindicated in the figure the cable between the CAT 5 transmitter and thewall plate is a weak spot. Substitution of a non-CAT 5 cable can degradethe system considerably. For instance, if a 2' length of CAT 3 quality cableis substituted for a 2' length of CAT 5, the near end crosstalk (NEXT*) willincrease by 8.0 dB.

+ADVANTAGESCAT 5 is easy to install—Because CAT 5 is so small, it is easy to installand easy to pull. The small size allows multiple CAT 5 cables to be runin even small sized conduit. It is also quite lightweight so running manycables doesn't present weight problems for the cable trays andsupporting structures.

Low cable cost—CAT 5 is inexpensive, not only in initial cost, but alsoin terms of installing and terminating. This can be a big advantage incertain situations. Imagine doing a staging event or a trade showbooth. When it's time to strike, just pack up the electronics and leavethe cable, wasting no time tearing cable out from structures, walls, orunder carpet.

Parts are easy to find—CAT 5 can be installed/terminated with partsfound at most any electronics store.

CAT 5 may already be there—Many places, such as universities,already have CAT 5 installed.

Small connector size—Since CAT 5 connectors are so small, CAT 5products can be made a fraction of the size of standard video products.

Some CAT 5 equipment is less likely to have ground loopproblems—Some manufacturers’ CAT 5 equipment will be lesssusceptible to ground loop problems. This is dependent on theparticular design.

RGB INPUT RGB OUTPUT

R G B H/HV V AA-V AUDIO

L RB

ISOG

C SY

NC

Computer

Non-CAT 5 cable can degrade signal quality

VGA Cable

CAT 5 Cable

BNC Cable

Projector

CAT 5 T 15HD A

H-SHIFTBUFFEREDCOMPUTER

INPUT

AUDIO

ID P

IN 4

ID P

IN 1

1

LOCAL MONITOR

C AT 5 ( c o n t . )


MISCONCEPTIONSCAT 5 is low cost—Yes, you did see this commentunder the "Advantages" section. However, to transmitCAT 5 video a transmitter-receiver pair is needed. Thesecan run up to approximately one thousand dollars perpair. Compare the cost of a CAT 5 system versus a systemusing a P/2 DA2 and an Extron 100 foot VGA cable. Asyou can see, a CAT 5 system is not economical in all cases.

CAT 5 is easy to terminate—CAT 5 is easy toterminate, but doing it right is another matter. Careneeds to be taken when terminating CAT 5 so that itwon't affect the quality of the signal. Whenterminating CAT 5 it is important to not untwist atwisted pair more than 1/2" at the termination point.Untwisting the pairs just 1/2" will increase near endcrosstalk (NEXT) by 1.5 dB. Untwisting the pairs 2" willcause NEXT to increase by 3.8 dB. Untwisting the pairs6" will cause NEXT to increase by 11.6 dB.

Also, when terminating, the cable sheath should notbe removed more than needed. Again, this will effectthe NEXT specification, reducing performance.Removing just 1" of cable sheath will cause NEXT toincrease 1.2 dB. Removing 12" of cable sheath willcause NEXT to increase 2.0 dB.

I saw it at the show and it looked good—Keep inmind that any manufacturer can make an image lookgood at a tradeshow. When you have a known imageresolution, known cable quality, and known cablelength, the video signal can be equalized to completelycompensate for the system. Extron does this at everyINFOCOMM Shoot-Out to ensure equal signals arepresented to each projector. Since all the signal

distribution parameters are known and fixed, we havebeen able to develop custom amplifiers that provide flatsignal response over the long coax cable runs.

CAT 5-based video is digital—This is incorrect. CAT 5based video is actually a differential analog signal.

Small wire = low voltage—Where as coax is actuallylow voltage 0.7V p-p (see figure below), CAT 5 actuallyuses two amplifiers, resulting in a voltage differential of1.4V p-p.

All phone wire is CAT 5—As mentioned earlier thereis a difference between twisted pair phone wire andCAT 5. CAT 5 is made in accordance with morestringent specifications. Using phone wire to run videowill likely result in a poor image.

*Near end crosstalk (NEXT) is a measure of how muchelectrical signal is coupled from one pair of wires to thenext. It is measured at the near end (signal source side)where the transmitted signal is the strongest.

0.7V p-p

1.4V p-p

Analog Amplifier for Coax Cable

Analog Amplifier for CAT 5

T E C H C O R N E R


Christie Digitalwww.christiedigital.com

Christie Digital has recently introduced the Vista X3 (built for fixed installations) and theRoadster X4 (built for rental/stagingapplications) DLP projectors. They both have ahorizontal scan range of 15 to 120 kHz, avertical scan range of 24 to 120 Hz and a trueXGA (1024 x 768) resolution with resizingcapabilities to scale down from 1600 x 1200and up from 640 x 480. The Roadster X4 offers3500 ANSI lumens and the Vista X3 offers 3000ANSI lumens. The projector’s inputs are: RGB/component/HDTV (RGBHV/BNC), compositevideo (BNC/RCA) and S-video (4-pin DIN/2BNC).The suggested retail prices for the newprojectors are $33,995 for the Vista X3 and$36,995 for the Roadster X4 with motorizedlens mount.

Recommended Extron accessories: Forsystem integration, use any xi Series interfaceand the Architectural RGB 500 Series interfaces.For RGB switching and distribution, use theADA and SW Series products and BNC cables.The SW 6 Component and ADA 6 Componentcan be used for component video switchingand distribution. Use the DVS 150 to enhancevideo signals. Use the system switchers for largevenue installations.

ExtroNews publishes information about new products that are relative to the Extron product line in the New News section. If you wouldlike a new product to be reviewed for New News, please send a press release, literature, contact name and a four color slide or photo to:New News c/o Pat Charlton, Extron Electronics, 1230 South Lewis Street, Anaheim, CA 92805, Phone: (714) 491-1500 ext. 6244

Roadster X4

Daviswww.davis.no

Davis has recently introduced the DP X16 ultra-portable DLP projector. The DP X16 weighs justunder 5 pounds and offers 1000 ANSI lumensbrightness. It has a horizontal scan frequencyrange of 15 to 72 kHz and a vertical scanfrequency range of 50 to 120 Hz. It iscompatible with XGA, SVGA, SXGA, NTSC, PALand SECAM. The DP X16 offers a true XGA(1024 x 768) resolution with compression for1280 x 1024. The projector inputs are: RGB (15 pin HD), composite video (RCA) and S-video (4-pin DIN). The suggested list price is$7,995.

Recommended Extron accessories: The P/2 DA1—“The Peaker”—is perfect forensuring high quality presentations in portableapplications. For VGA, use the P/2 DA2 MT, P/2DA2 WM, P/2 DA2 Plus, SW 2 VGA DA2 A/AFor other VGA switchers and VGA extensioncables. Use the System 5cr Plus for smallconference and training room installations.

DP X16Barco Graphics 4000

N E W N E W S F R O M T H E I N D U S T R Y

Barcowww.barco.com

BARCO has recently introduced its first portableLCD projector for presentation applications, theBarcoGraphics 4000. The unit delivers a highlight output of 2200 ANSI lumens and weighs20.3 pounds. The BarcoGraphics 4000 has anative resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels, ahorizontal scan frequency range of 15 to 94 kHz, and a vertical scan frequency range of 50 to 120 Hz. The projector inputs are: RGB1 (15 Pin HD), RGB2 / component (15-pin HD),composite video (RCA) and S-video (4-pin DIN). The unit displays all sources fromVHS video to HDTV formats to high resolution1280 x 1024 workstations. The BarcoGraphics4000 has a suggested list price of $12,995 andis available for immediate delivery.

Recommended Extron accessories: Forsystem integration, use any xi Series interfaceand the Architectural RGB 500 Series interfaces.For VGA, use the P/2 DA2 MT, P/2 DA2 WM, P/2 DA2 Plus, SW 2 VGA DA2 A/AF or otherVGA switchers and VGA extension cables. Usethe DVS 150 to enhance video signals. Use theSystem 5cr Plus for small conference andtraining room installations.


NECwww.nectech.com

NEC has recently introduced the MultiSyncVT440 and VT540 LCD projectors. They arelightweight and ultra-portable, weighing 8.6pounds each. They offer a horizontal scanrange of 15 to 100 kHz and a vertical scanrange of 50 to 85 Hz. The VT440 produces1100 ANSI lumens of brightness and offers aSVGA (800 x 600) native resolution, while theVT540 produces 1000 ANSI lumens ofbrightness and offers an XGA (1024 x 768)native resolution. The projector’s inputs are: 15 Pin HD (RGB), S-video (4-pin DIN), compositevideo (RCA), component video and HDTV-1080i, 720p, 480p with optional cables. Thesuggested retail prices for the new projectorsare $4,495 for the VT440 and $6,495 for theVT540.


MultiSync VT440

Sharpwww.sharpelectronics.com

Sharp has recently introduced the XG-V10WULCD projector to their Conference Series line ofprojectors. The XG-V10WU offers a horizontalscan frequency range of 15 to 126 kHz, avertical scan frequency range of 43 to 200 Hzand a true SXGA (1280 x 1024) resolution withAdvanced ImageAce Resizing up to UXGA(1600 x 1280) pixels. It offers 4000 ANSIlumens output. The projector inputs are: two(2) RGB/component, two (2) video inputscomposite/component video (BNC ) or S-video(4-pin DIN) and a DVI input (29-pin). All inputshave stereo audio in. The suggested list price is$34,995.

Recommended Extron accessories: Forsystem integration, use any xi Series interfaceand the Architectural RGB 500 Series interfaces.For RGB switching and distribution, use theADA and SW Series products and BNC cables.The SW 6 Component and ADA 6 Componentcan be used for video switching anddistribution. For direct digital signal distributionand extension use the D/2 DA4 or DDTX/DDRXtransmitter/receiver. Use the DVS 150 toenhance video signals. Use the System 5cr Plusfor small conference and training roominstallations.

XG-V10WU

Toshibawww.toshiba.com/presentations

Toshiba has recently announced theintroduction of their smallest-ever LCD dataprojector, the Micro-Portable Model TLP-B2. Itweighs in at just 5.8 pounds and offers abrightness level of 1000 ANSI lumens. It has ahorizontal scan frequency range of 15 to 80 kHz, a vertical scan frequency range of50 to 85 Hz and true XGA (1024 x 768)resolution. The projector inputs are: RGB (15-pin HD), composite video (RCA) and S-video(4-pin DIN). The suggested list price is $6,495.


TLP-B2

N E W N E W S F R O M T H E I N D U S T R Y

00• Extron CD • 2001

ATALOG • BROCHURES • DIAGRAMS • ExtronWEB &

MORE!

PC AND MAC COMPATIBLEDOMESTIC VERSION 5.0

COPYRIGHT © 2000 EXTRON ELECTRONICS


ONLINE ORDERINGThe Extron Dealer-Only Website enables

Extron dealers to place orders at any time of theday or night, seven days a week, through aneasy-to-use online interface.

The eCommerce engine automaticallycalculates and displays discount pricing, totalorder costs, and product availability. After anorder has been submitted, a confirmation e-mail lets you know that your order has beenreceived at Extron.

ORDER TRACKINGAny order placed with Extron can be tracked

online. The Dealer-Only Website automaticallye-mails shipping confirmation with each ordershipped, but if you want to inquire about anonline or phone-in order or find out about anypast order placed by your company, the Dealer-Only Website has order status reporting andpackage tracking capabilities.

by Andy Todd, Senior Web Developer

W W W . E X T R O N . C O M

The new Extron Dealer-Only Website enablesExtron dealers to access a host of exciting

new services, including 24-hour online ordering,order tracking, and much more. This securedaccess area—just a click away from the existing

Extron Website—adds another level of convenience toExtron’s renowned customer service and support.

WEBSITE ACCESS

SPECIAL PROMOTIONSFor the latest product deals and special

promotions, you’ll want to bookmark theDealer-Only Website and check backfrequently. Monthly specials, B-stockproduct information, and otherpromotions will keep you informed aboutthe latest dealer-exclusive offers fromExtron.

GETTING STARTEDTo open a Dealer-Only Website account,

contact your Customer SupportRepresentative at 800.633.9876. You willneed to provide your Extron accountnumber and a valid e-mail address to set upa secure username and password. Oncethe account is established, you’re ready togo. You can begin to use the Websiteimmediately by clicking “Dealer-Only” onthe Extron homepage.

Extron’s NewSelf-UpdatingCD-ROMThis year’s CD is more elegant,more useful, and smarter thanever before!

The 2000 Extron CD features anew interface designed to makenavigation easier than ever. It alsocomes with a new self-updatingfeature that will allow users todownload the latest materialsdirectly from the Internet to theircomputers. With these newfeatures, users will benefit from theportability of a CD-ROM combinedwith the ability to access the latestinformation available from Extron.Of course, the CD will still offer allof the useful information it hascontained in the past, including:

• Extron's 2000-2001 ProductCatalog

• High-quality, printable productbrochures

• User manuals• Detailed product specifications• CAD-compliant panel drawings

(.DXF files)• RS-232 control software and

drivers for Extron products.

Educational WebcastsWith Audio

Get a jump on the latest products andtechnologies online by viewing Extron’s newWebcasts.

Starting at INFOCOMM, Extron will begin unveiling Webcasts for newproducts. These quick-to-load multimedia presentations outline theapplication, features, operations and concepts surrounding a product andcan be viewed online with your Internet browser.

Stay tuned for even more exciting Webcasts that offer education just fordealers on the latest products, techniques and concepts, coming in phase 2 of Extron’s Dealer-Only Website. To view Webcasts for the newestExtron products, visit http://www.extron.com/ and click on the “Webcasts” link.

Extron’s Newest Web Services

AD

MIT

ON

E

AD

MIT O

NEWEBCAST

User-selectablegain/peaking switch

15-pin HD malelaptop connector

15-pin HD femaledisplay connector

Unit powerLED indicator Signal presence

LED indicator

actual size shown

1

0

2

3

800.633.9876 • www.extron.com

EXTRON P/2 DA1

Extron’s P/2 DA1 (The Peaker) is an extremely small, one input, one bufferedoutput VGA/SVGA/XGA/SXGA line driver. Mobile presenters are often facedwith sub-optimal presentation systems. The Peaker can overcome many systemdeficiencies such as poor cable quality, excessive lengths, poor connections,crimped cables, and minor damage. This ensures your presentation gets where itneeds to go. The P/2 DA1 provides amplification and peaking, which allow acomputer-video signal to be run long distances (250 feet or more) and producebrighter and sharper images than normally possible. This is especially useful inthe case of laptops, which often output a low power video signal. The P/2 DA1is housed in a 15-pin HD adapter-sized enclosure, making it highly portable andeasy to connect to a laptop.

• High bandwidth: 300 MHz (-3dB) RGB video bandwidth provided.

• Compatible with VGA, SVGA, XGA, and SXGA graphic cards, monitors, and projectors, as well as Macs with 15-pin HD output.

• Restores low level sync voltages found on many laptops (as low as two volts)to normal TTL levels. This allows a laptop to function with displays andcable types it normally wouldn’t work with.

• Three levels of user-selectable gain/peaking provided to maintain signalintegrity during long cable runs.

• The display’s ID bits are passed through to the laptop.

The P/2 DA1 (USA/domestic) part number is 60-319-01.The P/2 DA1 (world) part number is 60-319-02.

For complete details, visit Extron’s website atwww.extron.com/e/p2da1

Extron’s new P/2 DA1 line driver provides the following advantages:

NEW

Make Your PresentationGo the Distance

ExtroNews 11.2 May/June 2000

We welcome your comments and contributions! Please submit ideas to:

PR/Media ManagerRosia Senh714.491.1500 • 800.633.9876

ExtroNews is published by ExtronElectronics/ RGB Systems Inc. All rightsreserved. No portion of this newsletter maybe reproduced in any form without writtenpermission from Extron Electronics. Everyeffort has been made to ensure accuracy incontent; however, Extron assumes noresponsibility for errors and omissions in theinformation provided herein. ExtroNews issent free of charge to communicationindustry professionals and end-users.Printed in the United States of America.

Extron Electronics, USA1230 South Lewis StreetAnaheim, CA 92805Phone: 714.491.1500 or 800.633.9876Fax: 714.491.1517

Extron Electronics, EuropeBeeldschermweg, 6C 9821 AH AmersfoortThe NetherlandsPhone: +31.33.453.4040Fax: +31.33.453.4050

Extron Electronics, Asia135 Joo Seng Road #04-01PM Industrial BuildingSingapore 368363Phone: +65.383.4400Fax: +65.383.4664

Extron School ScheduleJune 18-19 ..................Extron School Int’l ....................Anaheim, CAJuly 20-21 ..............Extron School Tech Class................Anaheim, CAJuly 25-26 ............Extron School On the Road ..........Washington DCJuly 27-28 ............Extron School On the Road ..........Washington DCAugust 8-9............Extron School On the Road..........Greensboro, NCAugust 10-11........Extron School On the Road..........Greensboro, NCAugust 24-25 ........Extron School Sales Class ..............Anaheim, CAAugust 28-29........Extron School On the Road ........Toronto, CanadaAugust 30-31........Extron School On the Road ........Toronto, Canada

Upcoming Tradeshows

June 15-17 ......................INFOCOMM ........................Anaheim, CASeptember 8-12 ......................IBC........Amsterdam, The NetherlandsSeptember 8-10 ....................CEDIA ..........................Indianapolis, INSeptember 20-25 ..............Photokina ........................Köln, GermanyOctober 4-5 ............Rocky Mnt. Film & Video ..................Denver, CO

David Cavazos of Ford

Audio-Video in Dallas,

TX transformed an

Extron Tweeker into an

Extron X-1 Missile.

We're happy to report a

successful launch and a

smooth landing!

Send us your photograph of how you use the Tweeker.If we publish it in a future issue of ExtroNews, we’ll giveyou a free VTG 150. Please send entries along with anexplanation to: Extron Tweeker Contest, 1230 S. LewisStreet, Anaheim, CA 92805.

Documents

Extron’s S Technical Institute Debuts During INFOCOMM 2000...Extron’s S3 Technical Institute Debuts During INFOCOMM 2000 E xtron has always believed that training is the most valuable