TECHNOLOGY FIT FOR A PALAZZO

FIRST QUARTER 2014VOLUME 22 NUMBER 1

PROMAG is published quarterly by Electrosonic SA and distributed to the professional audio, video and lighting industry. © PROMAG and Electrosonic SA. All rights reserved. Trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Editorial and subscriptions Managing Editor – Terry Bourquin 011 770 9800 or terry@electrosonic.co.za

Editing – Khuboni Communications

Design and production – Cranberry Creative Solutions

Cover image – Steyn City

Printing – Seriti Printing - 012 333-9757

Electrosonic SAJohannesburg – Electrosonic SA33 Lily Avenue, Northcliff, JohannesburgP O Box 73515, Fairland, 2030Tel: 011 770-9800 Fax: 011 782-3123www.electrosonic.co.zae-mail: sales@electrosonic.co.za24 hour AV Systems Support 0861 AVHELP / 0861 28 43 5724 hour Lighting Technical Support0860 MARTIN / 0860 62 78 46

Durban – Electrosonic SA KZNUnits 5/6, 80 Rinaldo Road, Durban NorthP O Box 401130, Redhill, 4071Tel: 031 533-0900Fax: 031 533-0920

Crestron House279 Weltevreden Road, Blackheath, JohannesburgTel: 011 745-8190e-mail: sales@crestron.co.za

Useful LinksADB Lighting – www.adblighting.comCompulite – www.compulite.comCrestron South Africa – www.crestron.co.zaCM Lodestar – www.cmrigging.comElectron – www.electron.grElite Screens – www.elitescreens.comGreen Hippo – www.green-hippo.comInfoComm (ICIA) – www.infocomm.orgKramer – www.kramerelectronics.comLitec – www.litectruss.comMartin Professional – www.martin.comMilos Structural Systems – www.milosgroup.comNEC Displays – www.nec-displays.co.zaPLASA – www.plasa.orgSACIA – www.sacia.org.zaScreen International – www.screenint.comSierra Video – www.sierravideo.comSIM2 – www.sim2.com

First Quarter 2014Volume 22 Number 1

upfront

ACHIEVING THE IMPOSSIBLE

— Managing Editor: Terry

1PROMAG – first quarter 2014

On 5 December 2013 the world was saddened by the news of Nelson Mandela’s death. This was a man whose life story touched the hearts of billions of people. He left a legacy of forgiveness, hope, kindness, vision, leadership and, most important of all, achieving the impossible. What is the probability of winning a Nobel Peace Prize a year after being released from a 27 year jail sentence, and then, a year after that, becoming President of the country? View our article on how Emnotweni Casino, part of the Tsogo Sun group, paid their tribute to our beloved Madiba.

On the subject of icons, I still cannot fathom how a two meter tall Dr Frank-N-Furter danced through a whole evening of The Rocky Horror Show in impossibly high heels – and with a poise most women would envy. When asked, he made me wait in antici... pation before answering through his sweet transvestite smile: “I have been practicing since the age of seven, my dear”. Well, so have I. Unsuccessfully. PROMAG covers The Rocky Horror Show article from behind-the-scenes and shares how a great team effort made this Fugard Theatre production not only possible, but highly popular.

Who would ever have thought that video technology would turn radio into a visual experience? Primedia Broadcasting is leading the way in taking radio to another level. From analogue to digital: you’ll enjoy reading about the seemingly insurmountable challenges Spectrum Visual Networks overcame with their AV design solutions and cutting-edge AV equipment installation.

Lowther Communications might be a small AV company, but their dreams and innovations are big. They’ve designed the world's first fully-inclusive Mobile Multi-function Communication Companion, the Wing, an invention which earned a finalist spot in the Technology Top 100 Awards program. This is a great example of a company that ‘dreams the impossible dream’. PROMAG will keep an eye on Lowther Communications and look forward to reporting on their rapid growth in the near future!

PROMAG’s cover story shares with you how insurance tycoon Douw Steyn’s incredible vision was made reality by Panavision Evolve, who automated his Palazzo. Palazzo Steyn is encircled by fully functional Roman-style aqueducts. Not in Italy, but right here in the north of Johannesburg.

When hip hop legend 50 Cent decided to delight his Mozambique followers with a once-off concert, CES Live was tasked with the logistics. Being delayed for two days at the SA-Mozambican border with fully loaded trucks, CES faced impossible odds for a successful set-up. Yet they did. Running on zero sleep, the adrenaline kicked in, as did the teamwork and experience. The production crew even managed to do a full sound and lighting check prior to the actual show. Talk about achieving the impossible!

In many ways the ‘impossible’ is only a challenge set for us to overcome. As Nelson Mandela put it: “It always seems impossible until it’s done”. So let’s get on with it.

Enjoy the read.

CONTENTS

DIARY

2 Shows and events worldwide – NAB SHOW, IFSEC South Africa, LIGHTFAIR International

2014, InfoComm14, CEDIA

NEWS

3 CRC Dream venture, Dimension Data and Allan Gray combine for an industry first,

Xtreme Productions get more Xtreme, Video meets the radio star, Da Vinci boardroom AV installation, The Wing takes off, Emnotweni upgrades electronic signage, Electronic SA honoured at ISE, Innovative lighting for a rock classic, Harris presents master class at HippoSchool, Esselen Park gets a new look, CES makes 50 Cent look like a million bucks

COVER STORY

12 Technology fit for a Palazzo

FEATURE

14 Don't dream it, be it

FEATURED PRODUCTS

16 Crestron's DM-RMC-4K-100-C DigitalMedia 8G+™ Receiver and room

controller, Crestron's TSW-range touch screens, Crestron's SmartSpace ™, Elite Screen's ezCinema Plus series, Martin's Jem Ready 365 ™, Martin's MAC Quantum Wash ™, Screen International's Projector Lift SI-100, Milos Structural Systems' stage kits, NEC's MultiSync® X462UNV ultra-thin videowall, NEC's PH1400U high brightness professional installation projector and P451W professional projector, NEC's PE401H portable projector, Galaxy Pro video wall controller solutions, Kramer's VP-774: 9-input HDMI, 3G HD-SDI & HDbaset proscale presentation switcher, Kramer's K-Touch, Kramer's TBus-10XL: Table mount modular multi-connection solution

TUTORIAL

24 Ground loops in the AV World

LIGHTFAIR International 2014 — 1 - 5 June 2014Las Vegas, Nevada, USA - www.lightfair.com LFI 2014 is the world’s largest annual architectural and commercial lighting trade show and conference. LIGHTFAIR International blends continuing education courses with innovative products and cutting-edge technology.

NAB SHOW — 7 - 10 April 2014Las Vegas, Nevada, USA - www.nabshow.com After more than 80 years, the NAB Show is still the essential destination for broadcasting professionals who share a passion for bringing content to life on any platform.

DIARY – UPCOMING EVENTS AND SHOWS

upfront

InfoComm14 — 18 - 20 June 2014Las Vegas, Nevada, USA - www.infocommshow.orgNew products. Live demos. Special exhibits. Training. Networking. Tours. All the exciting features and surprises that make InfoComm the show over 35,000 AV professionals look forward to all year.

IFSEC South Africa — 13 - 15 May 2014Gallagher Convention Centre, Midrand - www.ifsecsa.com IFSEC South Africa is the leading Commercial Security, Homeland Security and Fire exhibition on the African continent.

CEDIA — 10 - 13 September 2014Colorado Convention Center - Denver, CO - www.expo.cedia.netHyper-change is here. CEDIA EXPO 2014 where you can see, touch, and be changed by the products and trends driving the residential home technology.

news

3PROMAG – first quarter 2014

CRC stands for the Christian Revival Church, and was established by pastors At and Nyretta Boshoff.

They are an inspirational couple who preach a Christian message of hope and redemption. The power of their message is evident in the huge growth of the CRC. Although the main CRC centre is in Bloemfontein, there are some 90 churches across South African and beyond. Or, more correctly, there are 90 locations – CRC subscribes to the motto: “One Church, Many Locations.” One of the locations, and a fast-growing one at that, is in Pretoria (Silver Lakes) where Aridian Consulting has been working closely with CRC in designing, supplying and installing AV systems.

Aridian is owned and managed by Adriaan Booyens. Adriaan's father was a long-time employee at the State Theatre in Pretoria, and he has a background in (and a passion for) theatre. Before he decided to start Aridian, Adriaan was up in Tanzania working on IT and systems design. On returning home he began, what he calls, his “dream venture” - Aridian Consulting. Aridian offers the core service of installing and supporting AV and related control solutions that are tailor-made for clients.

Late last year CRC Pretoria were putting the finishing touches on a massive auditorium to house their burgeoning congregation (up till recently they had been gathering in a large 2000-seater tented structure). In December Aridian installed AV screens for the auditorium, a challenging job that overlapped with the completion of the construction. Adriaan, and his team, went for two Screen International Flatmax 600x337cm screens. The screens are 600x337cm, with 1.0 gain and micro-holes fabric. The fabric is acoustically transparent allowing for the speakers to be mounted behind the screens.

Aridian is one to watch for the future, and Electrosonic SA will be taking a keen interest in developments at this innovative and creative company.

A DREAM VENTURE

Aridian is a member of SACIA

DIMENSION DATA AND ALLAN GRAY COMBINE FOR AN INDUSTRY FIRST

Dimension Data has recently completed a high-calibre DigitalMedia™ installation for asset management company Allan Gray’s new building at No 1 Silo, in Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront.

Dimension Data were given the contract as integrators for the 18000m2 building, and based their solution around Crestron audio-visual (AV) controllers and user interfaces. When it comes to digital AV networks, Crestron’s DigitalMedia™ offers a complete end-to-end digital network solution, and was the obvious choice for Dimension Data. Signal routing to the 30 plus meeting rooms was done via CAT6, ensuring high quality and high resolution.

Dimension Data also needed to integrate the various room control systems, including lighting control, and blinds control. This was done via a Crestron IP Gateway, which talks the required Bacnet protocol. Dimension Data even created some level of integration with the Fire Evacuation system. In the event of a fire, the central Crestron controller communicates to all the local room controllers to prepare each room for evacuation mode.

One of the standout features of Crestron is its Fusion RV RoomView software, which automates and streamlines several management and technical support functions, offering remote management and control of every device in every room. Fusion RV RoomView also offers built-in reporting, resource usage tracking, scheduling (via Outlook Add-in), remote system diagnostics, and an interface for booking rooms. Fusion RV RoomView is aligned to the Crestron room controllers to prepare the room for the meeting, based on the options selected in the meeting scheduling.

Crestron Wireless Touch Panels offer presenters basic control over the room: source selection, volume levels, motorised screen, motorised projection lift and lighting control.

This job was hugely rewarding for Dimension Data, and does justice to the cutting-edge design of Allan Gray’s No 1 Silo.

Dimension Data is a member of SACIA

Above: The acoustically transparent screens from Screen InternationalBelow: CRC's impressive new Auditorium

the best equipment, offering an affordable solution for our customers”.

Electrosonic SA thanks Joe for his continued support as we continue to support Xtreme on their venture in the Entertainment Industry.

Joe Engels/ 0827829120/ 0126611413/ joe@xtremeproductions.co.za

Xtreme Productions bill of equipment• 1 x Martin M2PC • 2 x Compulite Rave • 10 x Martin MX10 Extremes • 8 x Martin Mac401 • 4 x Martin Mac250 • 16 x Martin Mac101 • 6 x Martin Rush MH3 Beams • 1 x JEM Stage Haze • 3 x JEM ZR33 smoke Machine • 108 x Versalight LED Parcans • 60 x DTS Par64 1kW Parcans • Versalight Led Curtain • 2 x Electron 12Way Dimmers • 1 x Kramer 724 • 1 x Kramer 747 • Kramer DA’s

news

– first quarter 20144 PROMAG

Xtreme Productions is a Centurion-based production company specializing in Lighting/Sound/AV and Staging. Company owner Joe Engels started his career in the entertainment business as a DJ … at the age of 13! After completing his schooling he worked for a Production Company where he gained knowledge on many technical aspects of the entertainment business: Sound, Lighting and AV.

In 2003 he launched Xtreme Productions by investing in Martin Lighting equipment: he purchased 2 x MX10 Extremes along with a Compulite Rave. From there he grew his business by focusing primarily on school productions. The lighting division grew with the addition of 4 x Mac250 Entours, Atomic Strobes as well as JEM Hazer and Smoke Machines.

While he added a PRX Audio System with the Yamaha 01V console, wireless microphones and headsets, fast fold screens and projectors,

staging and trussing he always knew that Martin was the brand he would continue to invest in when it came to his lighting requirements: “Martin gives me great value for money, the products are reliable and I get amazing back-up and support from Electrosonic SA”.

Xtreme Productions recently invested in a Mobile Stage that can be set up at any location. With this development Joe approached Electrosonic SA to purchase 8 x Mac401s, as well as M2PC and Versa-Light LED Curtains. Electrosonic SA was also able to supply Xtreme Productions with various Kramer products for their AV division including VP724 and VP747 scalers and various video switching components. Xtreme Productions’ services include converting any venue or space into a fully functional temporary theatre. Electrosonic SA congratulates Joe on his recent purchase of 16 x Mac101’s and 6 x Rush MH3 Beams, to improve his service offering. “I cannot believe how powerful the 101s and the rush beams are, they are very impressive fixtures!” Joe enthused, “Xtreme Productions can now provide an excellent service with

XTREME PRODUCTIONS GET MORE XTREME

VIDEO MEETS THE RADIO STAR

news

5PROMAG – first quarter 2014

by Abrie du Plooy (NEC & GALAXY Product Manager)

The days when radio presenters were only heard and not seen are long gone. Radio stations started utilising webcams in studio, to stream live video feeds to websites. A number of radio shows started televising presenters and guests in action. This was the start of a new phenomenon that elevated radio broadcasting to a whole new level: a level that rises higher with every sunrise as new technological innovations see the light.

Digital signage is another key part of today's video technology offering. Video walls are a hot topic currently, and if they are used in concert with other new technologies they produce an extremely functional and impressive outcome. When one combines the above design elements with a GALAXY Video Wall processor and NEC professional displays the result is a breath-taking solution that satisfies even the hungriest technological appetite.

Primedia Broadcasting, a leader in their field with cutting-edge stations such as Talk Radio 702 and 94.7 Highveld Stereo, decided to do a simple make-over: upgrade their existing studio equipment from analogue to digital, slap on a fresh coat of paint, and replace a chair or two. They kicked off with routine design meetings, but as the team brainstormed through the various options and available solutions, the idea of a simple make-over evolved into a magnificent ‘Complete New Studio’ project with video and digital signage becoming core focus points. Grant Vick, project manager for Primedia explained their motivation: “Initially we only wanted individual screens in each of the new studios in order to display content from social media websites such as Facebook and Twitter, as well as live broadcasting from sport matches and breaking news as it happened. We also wanted to utilise the same screens to display different branding inside the studios at different times instead of the conventional fixed printed branding.”

The Primedia project team then approached Spectrum Visual Networks, a digital media company that has been trading for 12 years. Discussions were initiated by putting the above ideas on the table and Primedia emphasizing the importance of video displays within the new studio design.

Primedia operates in the ultra-competitive ‘around-the-clock’ broadcasting climate, so a successful solution had to be designed with products that offer 24/7 operation and warrantees. This was a piece of cake for Grant Neill, business development manager for Spectrum Visual Networks, who has ample experience in video technology. Grant did his homework and presented a unique digital media solution second to none. This consisted of multiple NEC ultra-narrow-bezel displays, grouped in adjacent clusters, to form a series of 2x2 and 2x1

video walls. The content for these walls was to be driven by a single GALAXY video wall processor per floor. This solution did not only successfully introduce the video element to the studio project, but also opened up other flexible possibilities. These include unlimited branding options during different radio shows and interviews, computer graphics and multiple live television feeds on display at any time.

The Primedia team loved the idea and together with Grant, they paid a visit to the Electrosonic SA showroom for a demonstration and a first-hand experience of the NEC X463UN direct backlit LED displays. The WOW factor was created and they were blown away.

The installation, like many others, did not have a smooth execution and presented a hierarchy of challenges. LCD screens inside the studios had to be mounted flush with the acoustic panels and therefore left limited space for mounting hardware. Instead of using equipment pertaining to video wall installations, standard flat brackets had to be used. The latter however, made the panel alignment much more difficult.

Another unforeseen challenge was the noise level of the GALAXY processor which was designed to be inside the call-screen room, sandwiched between the two studios. The call-screen room, which is used for recording phone calls, has to be extremely quiet and even though the GALAXY was configured accordingly, it still didn’t meet the minimum required decibel levels. The only solution was to move the GALAXY processor to a downstairs server room; in theory a rock-solid plan which worked, but was trailed by more complications. The biggest being the distance between the displays and the video wall processor. It was simply too far for aidless HD distribution. One also had to comply with the prescribed - and already over-populated - cable routes into the studios (in studio construction acoustic treatment, ambient noise blanking and magnetic interference are top priorities and therefore don’t allow new cable routes to be made). The distance to be covered was just shy of 90 meters and in order to display full HD signals (1920x1080, 60Hz), Kramer HDMI transmitters and receivers were introduced.

Kramer’s DigiKat7 shielded twisted pair cable which was specifically designed for this type of application, completed the link. With the GALAXY processor now miles away and all the Kramer distribution equipment in place, the Full HD signals reached the displays problem-free and the images were literally ‘spotless’.

On the software side of the GALAXY we faced two challenges. In the GALAXY Wall Control software layout, the entire wall was displayed as one canvas instead of the multiple smaller walls in the studios. This was easily overcome and the programmer simply had to keep his focus while designing the layouts. Another challenge was the layout selection from individual studios. Each studio has five or six different layout options and because it is driven by a single controller, we had to carefully design layouts to accommodate both studios. This was also not too big an issue and we created a lookup-table of 30 layout combinations in order for each studio to operate independently from the other and still have maximum flexibility.

Graphical user-friendly control is maximised by a single Crestron CP3 processor and three TSW750 in-wall touch panels, one in each studio and the call-screen room. The Crestron system is also used to control the source equipment as well as various lighting zones in multiple areas.

All the elements came together well, composing a stunning final product. "We are very impressed by the final result and the vast functionality offered by the new digital signage system. By using technologies such as these, our studios will always have the edge", said Ryan Till, Chief Operating Officer for Primedia Broadcasting. Grant Neill from Spectrum Visual Networks added: “It was a challenging request, but I am very proud to have been a part of such a unique and successful project”.

At Electrosonic SA we are all smiles. Once again a flagship solution came together by using quality products. It’s the reason why we are in this industry and we strive to meet the future with this same vision. We thank all the stakeholders for giving us this opportunity and for their investment in our arsenal of quality products. The final result speaks for itself.

news

– first quarter 20146 PROMAG

Next time you are driving south on the N1 remember to glance to your left as you pass under Beyers Naudé Avenue. You will see an imposing structure rising up from the banks of the Fairland Spruit like a giant ocean liner. If you think that First National Bank’s Fairlands Campus is spectacular, then you will be totally blown away by the Da Vinci boardroom contained within that elegant exterior.

The Da Vinci boardroom was not part of the architects’ original design, but in late 2013 the need for a multi-functional boardroom arose, and another space was converted into a boardroom. FNB Online gave Paul Lowther, CEO of Lowther Communications, the commission to handle the AV side of the project; in particular the control and distribution of multiple sources of Video and Audio with Teleconferencing. “Part of the brief was to provide for both analogue and digital inputs to the seated delegates,” says Paul “so we provided simple to operate flip-top access points for laptops”. Paul’s engineers integrated a push-button into each of the flip-tops; these push-buttons control and toggle between various functions and inputs, simply by holding them in for longer or shorter periods. The desk mount flip-tops offer HDMI, VGA, dual LAN and dual 15Amp power points.

The perfectly square room and table design, with seating for 26 people, posed its own challenges regarding the placement of a screen. So Paul and his team – relying on over 22 years of experience in the AV industry - took the unusual step of installing a 65-inch display along each of the four walls. “This way everyone can stay facing forward, everyone gets a good view of the presentation and no-one gets a crick in his neck” says Paul.

Paul’s team also had to provide teleconferencing and audio recording services, and chose to use the Clearone Interact Pro Processors with an integrated telephone hybrid. This system perfectly managed all the audio requirements and was extremely easy to set up. It also ensures that no echo or voice feedback would be experienced by the delegates.

To complement and control all the AV signals and processing, the team included a mix of Crestron Control Processors (the CP3), combined with the Kramer Electronics range of signal processing and distribution equipment. Kramer HDMI to Cat6 converters were used to simplify cable reticulation between the equipment rack and the display screens.

One of the technical requirements was that all signals to the screens had to be HD, so the team used the Kramer Scaler VP435, with the added bonus that it also managed all the HDMI digital signalling and handshaking protocols to obtain standardised output resolution.

The accompanying pictures show that the Da Vinci boardroom is a beautifully appointed venue, but the true measure of its usefulness is how users experience it. Lowther Communications need not fear - the reception has been overwhelmingly positive. Paul glows when he recalls: “It was reported to me that Lee-Anne van Zyl, CEO of FNB Online, is absolutely delighted”.

Lowther Communications have since been commissioned to fully upgrade WesBank’s executive boardroom (which is in the same building) from analogue to digital standard. Like Leonardo da Vinci, Paul will have to draw on his powers of design and imagination to top himself. Promag will keep you posted on his progress.

Bill of materials used in the da Vinci Boardroom• Crestron CP3 Processor• Kramer 16:1 HDMI Switcher with RS232,

Ethernet and IR Control• Kramer 4:1 HDMI Switcher with RS232,

Ethernet and IR Control• Kramer 32:1 VGA/Audio Switcher• Kramer HDMI Audio De-embedder• Kramer HDMI over Twisted Pair Transmitter• Kramer HDMI over Twisted Pair Receiver• Kramer Rack Adapter• Kramer 4 Input Multiformat VID over TP Tx and

Step-in• Crestron 2x210W Power Amplifier 4/8 ohm or

100v Line• Interact Pro Tele Conferencing System with

Telephone Hybrid • Interact Pro 8i Microphone Expansion Unit• Interact Wireless Dialler• Interact COM W Wireless Interface Unit• 65" LCD/LED Display Panels (Consumer

Type)• Tabletop Button Type Microphones, Black• Ceiling Mount Speakers with Backcan and

Transformer• Tabletop VGA, Audio, HDMI, LAN and

Power Tilt-up Patch Panels• Momentary Contact Closure Switches• Kramer 0.9m VGA and Audio Cable• Kramer 15.2m HDMI to HDMI Cable• Kramer 0.9m HDMI to HDMI Cable• CAT6 Cable - DIG TP• Kramer Connector Crimp RJ45/CAT6/STP• Professional VGA Shielded Cable• Shielded Microphone Cable• 1.5mm Speaker Cable

LEONARDO HIMSELF WOULD HAVE LOVED THE DA VINCI AV INSTALLATION

THE WING TAKES OFF: GREAT SA INNOVATION @ WORK

news

7PROMAG – first quarter 2014

You’ve all been there. You’ve burned the midnight oil, you’ve scoured the internet for graphics and you’ve designed yourself a hotshot PowerPoint presentation with animation and embedded clips. But no-one knows where to plug in the thingy at the whatchamacallit in the client’s boardroom. The PA knows all about water carafes and peppermints, and the IT-guy is on a course. So everyone ends up huddling around your laptop, no-one is really that impressed with your presentation and you end up losing the sale. The above scenario is soon to be something of the past. The device that could change everything is the Lowther WING – the World's first fully-inclusive Mobile Multi-function Communication Companion. This revolutionary design is the brainchild of engineers at Lowther Communications who set out to design a Mobile Communication Companion. It is a world class innovation that allows one to take the technology to the client, no matter where they are convening. An innovation that actually works, is truly portable and easy to relocate, thus turning any available area into a high tech meeting area. Research shows that for over 60% of the time meeting room AV equipment is idle. Moreover, the AV equipment is then not available to the rest of the business. The WING addresses this problem by allowing staff to remove the equipment if not needed, and use it elsewhere. Now that’s called: sweating the asset!

Paul Lowther, CEO, lead Innovator and co-designer of the WING says: “The unique design is inclusive, yet incredibly simple. It is all about innovation in design-thinking.” The design was driven by observing what really goes on at a customer’s premises and converting this need into a product that would make Data Presentation & Video Conferencing support services available effortlessly and within minutes, anywhere on the premises.

on the industry. We call it 03, or Zero Cubed: Zero time to commission on site, Zero time to deploy within the site and Zero time to de-commission for redeployment elsewhere.”

“It’s easily movable and even easier to deploy. Anyone in the office can run it – even brand managers!” chuckles Lowther Communications brand manager, Alex Bouca. “The plugs are simple, and everything is enclosed in the super-lightweight structure. It’s the ultimate plug-and-play device”.

The Wing offers many options. For example the articulating arms can be operated manually, or they can be automated - with the screens extending at the touch of a button. The two 55 inch HD LCD screens can be used vertically or horizontally, with three further options:

• identical media duplicated on both screens; • one media image out across both screens; or, • totally different media on both screens.

Another innovation is that either screen can be upgraded to be used as an electronic whiteboard.

Paul concludes: “Our primary goal with the WING is to create a product range that is versatile enough for everyone. We can adapt the screen size, colour and technical spec to suit any environment. You tell us what you will be using it for and we custom-design and factory-assemble it for your unique needs, within days.”

“It’s a niche product,” says Alex, “but interest has been huge and sales have been good so far.”

Lowther Communication’s brand promise is Share … and the WING certainly is an idea that is worth sharing. Stand by for take-off!

For more information regarding pricing and demonstration of the Lowther Wing contact Paul: paul@lowther.co.za, or, 082 442 4856

“We were so confident in our design and our product, that we filed a patent for it, and also entered it into the Technology Top 100 Awards program.” enthuses Lowther, “We reached the finals of the TT100 awards and we couldn’t be more proud!” If its sleek looks are anything to go by, there will be more accolades the near future.

Paul believes Lowther Communications has addressed one of the biggest challenges posed by permanently installed communication technology in boardrooms. “It’s a whole new take

Lowther Communications (Pty) Ltd is a member of SACIA

Tsogo Sun and Mtshali-Moss Projects Africa are members of SACIA

news

– first quarter 20148 PROMAG

On Friday 6 December Emnotweni Casino in Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit) celebrated a grand re-launch after the completion of an extensive expansion programme that included enlarging the casino area, as well as adding a conference venue and multi-purpose arena. Mbombela is located in the heart of the Lowveld, and is a key point along the Maputo Corridor. It is a growing and vibrant city, and with the expansion of the Emnotweni Casino & Entertainment Complex is set to become the region’s preferred conference and events destination.

Owned by Tsogo Sun, the largest hospitality and gaming group in Southern Africa, the Emnotweni Complex provides professional conferencing, banqueting and events facilities; quality accommodation at two Emnotweni Hotels, and access to a range of dining and entertainment experiences at one convenient location.

The re-launch - at the exquisite new Emnotweni Arena - featured a music spectacular headlined by international singing sensation, Lira. The celebrations were tinged with sadness as the news of Nelson Mandela’s death the previous evening lay heavy on everyone. Emnotweni’s Director of Operations and Complex General Manager, Ig Olivier, said: “We dedicated our launch concert to Madiba, as a celebration of his life. We also thank everyone who joined us in celebrating our re-launch and tribute to Madiba.”

When Tsogo Sun embarked on the expansion of Emnotweni they also decided to expand the electronic signage system to include the new areas. The original analogue system had been installed in 2005 and consisted of a combination of Sierra Matrixes and Kramer Transmitters, Receivers, DAs and scalers. When Tsogo Sun, the parent company, approached Mtshali-Moss Projects Africa (MMPA) to design and project manage the upgrade of the system

ELECTROSONIC SA HONOURED AT ISE

EMNOTWENI UPGRADES ELECTRONIC SIGNAGE

it was decided to switch over from analogue to digital and to replace the old Emnotweni system with a new full HD Digital System.

MMPA in turn contacted Orlando da Silva to do the installation. Orlando as a trusted supplier of Tsogo Sun, has been involved in installations and continuous upgrades at a number of their casinos. MMPA researched various options and came to the conclusion that of all the available digital systems Kramer offered the most cost-effective and reliable solution.

The following products were installed: a Kramer 32 x 32 Digital Matrix switcher; 16 HDMI input cards; 24 x Fibre outputs; 22 x Fibre Receivers; VP729 Scalers; Kramer HDMI Fibre TX and RX units; HDBaseT TX and RX units; Kramer DVI cables x20; a Crestron CP-3 Control Processor; and 2 x Crestron Touch Panels. The Kramer Card based Routers (Kramer CORE system) function well in every installation they have been thrown into. They remain very stable while being very cost effective against all competitors. Kramer continues to develop new cards for these units allowing them to cater for many types of Pro AV solutions.

However, the installation was not without its challenges. Due to the size of the property MMPA decided to use a complete fibre solution, with fibre running to all the screens. “There was some nervousness as it was our first Fibre solution,” said MMPA’s Djalita von Mollendorf “but Kramer Israel was very helpful. Jason Johnstone at Electrosonic SA was never more than a phone call away if we needed any help. The installation went smoothly with no hitches.”

This was mainly because Orlando did a pre-installation mock-up of the system in Johannesburg, so as to avoid any surprises during the actual installation in Emnotweni Casino. “There were some concerns around the HDMI/DVI-D EDID limitations, so the mock-up was an invaluable exercise that certainly helped the project run so smoothly,” says Orlando. Part of the job was to mount all the

TV screens in the venue and this posed its own challenge. “Many of the screens required additional steel reinforcement into the roof to ensure they would never break loose from the dry walling.”

According to Djalita the client was impressed that the Kramer system delivered the video signal to the screens without any effort and that no complicated set-up was required. “It was pretty much plug and play, and the improvement in picture quality from the old VGA system was instantly noticeable.”

For Orlando the project is not quite over, “Our next task is to expand the Digital signals to the adjacent Hotels and connect up the stage area via fibre to the Matrix.”

In February Electrosonic SA received Crestron’s Exceptional Distributor of the Year Award at ISE (Integrated Systems Europe) 2014, which was held in Amsterdam. Every year at ISE Crestron hosts a sub-conference for its distributors. Delegates get the opportunity to learn about organisational changes, get sneak previews of products in the pipeline, and to network with international colleagues. Crestron also uses the event to reward distributors for their commitment in various sectors of the industry. Electrosonic SA received the award for “Exceptional Distributor Commitment”, as recognition for their investment and commitment in establishing Crestron House, in Johannesburg. Bruce Genricks said “I am really proud of the Crestron team and the rest of the Electrosonic SA staff who worked tirelessly to establish Crestron house as a flagship distribution hub for Crestron products in Southern Africa. Crestron House incorporates warehousing, demonstration and training facilities, as well as a technical and sales support office”.

9PROMAG – first quarter 2014

INNOVATIVE LIGHTING FOR A ROCK CLASSIC

It’s been over 40 years since The Rocky Horror Show debuted at the Royal Court Theatre in London, but it’s is still going strong. The show features a cast of crazy characters, fifteen cracking tunes, and some of show business’ most memorable lines: “So come up to the lab. And see what's on the slab/ I see you shiver with antici... pation!”

Millions of theatre-goers worldwide have shrieked with laughter and delight at those words, uttered by the madcap transvestite scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter, the central character in Richard O’Brien’s era-defining rock musical.

In July last year Cape Town’s Fugard Theatre, and producer Eric Abraham, opened their production of the show. Its success has been as riotous as some of Frank-N-Furter’s dance moves. After playing to sold-out houses for 27 weeks in a row, the production moved to Pieter Toerien's Montecasino Theatre in Joburg, where it has SOLD OUT its entire season, which ends 30 March. It has just been announced that, due to overwhelming public demand, the production will return to Joburg for a further 12 week run starting 14 November 2014. So if you missed it, here is your chance to grab your tickets…but you better move fast!

In an artful melding of new technology with classic show business this production of The Rocky Horror Show makes innovative use of lighting and screen projection. As the Fugard Theatre’s preferred supplier, Electrosonic SA had a hand in the lighting and SFX aspects of the show. This included designing a mobile wireless Versalight LED installation. Electrosonic SA also supplied Compulite Vector Series Lighting Consoles, Jem Haze Machines, Jem Glaciator X-Streams, Martin MAC Auras, Martin MAC 401s and Martin MAC 700 Profiles.

Electrosonic SA’s association with the Fugard Theatre dates back to the construction phase of the theatre when Electrosonic SA installed the lighting infrastructure, including dimming, control, and generic and intelligent lighting.

Robbi Nassi (Electrosonic SA: Technical Sales and Support: Lighting Division) notes the good working relationship and strong friendships that have been built up over the years with this successful theatre company.

“We’d like to thank the Fugard Theatre, and Executive Director Daniel Galloway, for their loyalty and continued support. We value the opportunity to be part of their vision to create and host world-class theatre.” According to Daniel, the feeling is mutual: “Working with Robbi and the chaps from Electrosonic SA is a dream. In a demanding industry, which requires full-time passion and commitment in reaching for perfection, we continue to find our perfect match in the Electrosonic SA team. Their integrity and tireless work ethic is refreshing and rewarding.”

Photo: Jesse Kramer

HARRIS PRESENTS MASTER CLASS AT HIPPOSCHOOLOver a period of seven days in January and February Simon Harris, User Experience Manager for the media server manufacturer Green Hippo, conducted HippoSchool training in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. Simon, who is based at Green Hippo Head Office in London, presented the training sessions in association with their South African distributor, Electrosonic SA.

Electrosonic SA excelled by setting up all three locations in advance and inviting the majority of key people from across the entertainment technology industry. Programmers in SA’s three big centres had the opportunity to become closely acquainted with the world’s favourite media server - Hippotizer.

HippoSchool training is designed with one outcome in mind: to teach everything required to program Hippotizer media servers for a show. Training covered – among others - topics such as MediaManager, DMX control, PixelMapping, VideoMapping, and Timeline Programming. It wasn’t all theoretical though, and delegates were given the chance to get hands-on experience with most of Green Hippo’s servers.

Attendance at all three locations was high, and productive question and answer sessions followed after each training session. Despite the huge range of subjects and features covered within the time available, the HippoSchool programme managed to meet all delegates’ needs and

expectations. Based on the feedback received, as well as orders for systems received, it is fair to surmise that the HippoSchool Training Programme was a great success.

Green Hippo had high hopes for the success of Hippotizer in South Africa – when they teamed up with Electrosonic in 2013. Now, after the successful completion of the 2014 training sessions, it seems those hopes were justified. Green Hippo has renewed confidence in the potential of the Hippotizer range in the South African live events and installation market.

news

news

Esselen Park - a vast tract of land owned by Transnet - lies East of Johannesburg. It consists of a multitude of sports fields, conference and training facilities, accommodation and function venues.

The large conference hall had seen many years of use and Transnet decided that it needed to be renovated. As part of the refurbishment, Fikile - the building contractors - put out a sub-contract to upgrade the hall’s audio-visual and communications infrastructure too. It was a challenging project; not because of scale, but because of the multitude of trades and concurrent works involved, which dragged it out over 8 months.

The lighting upgrade formed part of the AV scope, which was awarded to AVPRO Audio Visual Systems. Dries Nel, Managing Member of AVPRO, and Bruce Schwartz, Manager of Electrosonic SA’s Lighting Division, had collaborated many times before and relished the challenge.

Transnet’s brief to AVPRO was to utilize as much of the old equipment as possible and add the benefits of more modern control and LED based fixtures. The old trussing was removed and sent for powder-coating. The Jands Dimmers came back to Electrosonic SA and were given a onceover.

Omar Sharfodeen and his crack team spent hours baking in the ceiling while installing the freshly powder-coated, FOH truss carrying two half-

ESSELEN PARK GETS A NEW LOOK

ton CM Lodestar motors with an Electrosonic SA Control Freak Motor Controller. Mounted on it was a mix of old PAR 64 Cans, high-powered Versa-light RGB Cans, with ADB 650w Profiles finishing off this truss. Another truss bar, also with refurbished PAR 64’s and more Versa-light LED RGB Cans, was added onstage.

Of interest was the canopy over the stage and stairs. Malcolm Grift from Delta Consultants came up with the idea of ribs with rows of recessed LED Cans. Finished off in white, it provided a unique way of providing top light and a generous dose of eye candy.

A complete DMX network, including Martin Opto Splitters and a Martin M2PC control desk, was installed for flexible control and ease of use.

A Robert Juliat Buxie 575w Follow Spot was also supplied.

The house lights were upgraded with Electrosonic SA supplying a Helvar Digidim DALI Router system, coupled to the Crestron DM Control from AVPRO.

Renovations at Esselen Park – which was established 70 years ago – will soon be completed, and with up-to-date AV equipment in place, it will be ready to host throngs of conference delegates.

Before After

AVPRO is a member of SACIA

– first quarter 201410 PROMAG

news

11PROMAG – first quarter 2014

When a hip hop star of the stature of 50 Cent comes to Africa you can be sure there will be a buzz, but when he chooses to do a one-off concert at a race track on Maputo, Mozambique you can be sure there will be some raised eyebrows.

It turns out that 50 Cent has a huge following in Mozambique, according to journalist Nyangala Zolho: “Hip hop makes up a significant part of the Mozambican music scene, which includes the American-inspired genre of gangsta rap”. 50 Cent – or Curtis James Jackson III, as his parents named him – is a controversial artist who is seldom out of the headlines. Problems seem to follow him - and problems also dogged the footsteps of CES Live, the Edenvale-based rental company appointed to handle the 50 Cent concert in its entirety.

CES Live senior project manager Leslie Wahl explains: “We got the gig on the 19th of October and had two and a half weeks to arrange everything.” Working under pressure with looming deadlines is nothing new for CES Live – a company famous for their technical contributions to the H2O party series.

“We had some issues with some of our Mac 2000’s and Mac 101’s and we had to get them looked at on short notice. Renier Smit took this in his stride and got them serviced and checked, and loaded in no time. But in 11 years of dealing with Electrosonic SA that’s what we’ve come to expect from them.”

Apart from the 2000s and the 101s Electrosonic SA also supplied: 10 x Martin Mac 700 Profile; 10 x Martin Mac 700 Wash; 12 x Martin Atomic 3000; and, 12 x 4 Way Molfey blinders, all operated from a Martin Maxxyz lighting console. Electrosonic SA also contributed to the stage rigging by supplying: 18 x CM Loadstar Half Ton Motors; 14 x CM Loadstar One Ton Motors; an 8 Way Litec Motor Controller; and, a 24m x 14m Litec Libera FL76 roof system, which was used in conjunction with Layher Event System scaffolding.

"Electrosonic SA has been supplying CES with all the equipment on the list for the past decade and we value CES's continued support highly ", says Renier.

Still - it was touch and go with bureaucratic border officials almost having the last say. After two days of waiting on the SA-Mozambican border, it was only through the intervention of the client that everything was cleared and the trucks made their way to the venue.

“Come Thursday night we were so far behind I didn’t think we would make the show,” continues Leslie “but on Saturday – after not really sleeping for three days - we were finished and the production crew could perform their sound and lighting checks for the evening’s show.”

The audio system for the gig was all DAS. A single hang each side of the stage comprising of eight Aero 50s and eight Aero 38As was configured as the main PA; 16 elements in total per side. Since the Aero 50s are passive boxes, four Lab.Gruppen FP10000Q four-channel amplifiers were employed per the top section of each array that comprised of the Aero 50s. The remaining Aero 38As are all self-powered. A further 24 Aero 12As boxes configured as two arrays of ten were used as left and right delay towers and a further four Aero 12As were used as centre-fills at the stage. Six RF118 single 18-inch subs were used for the left and right delay arrays. Finally, six Aero 8As were employed three-a-side as left and right stage-fills accompanied by two Sub-218Gs per side.

CES MAKES 50 CENT LOOK LIKE A MILLION BUCKS

A total of 36 DAS LX218C dual-18” were supplied, configured in three stacks of twelve in a left, centre, right configuration and powered by six four-channel DAS D100 amplifiers. The centre subwoofer cluster was powered by six Crown I-Tech 6000 amplifiers.

Stage monitors comprised of twelve Nexo PS-15 wedges powered by Camco Vortex 200V amplifiers.

For FOH and monitors, two Yamaha PM5D consoles were supplied along with a 48-channel DSP5D stage box. Eight Shure UR4D wireless handheld microphones were supplied along with twelve PSM1000 in-ear monitoring systems for the band. The entire backline for the band was supplied by Kyalami-based rental company Sound Stylists.

Despite the many challenges along the way, CES Live once again pulled off a successful show and enhancing their reputation as the go-to guys when time-lines are tight.

“It was rough, but we had a jol!” laughs Leslie “the client is already talking about the next show and CES will stand by to help.”

Rigging under the greatest time pressure paid off for CES when 50 Cent wowed the Mozambique crowd with a fabulous show

cover story

– first quarter 201412 PROMAG

TECHNOLOGY FIT FOR A PALAZZO:

Think ‘Palazzo’ and what comes to mind? A palace fit for an emperor; a palatial mansion where luxury is a given, and where every possible convenience is only a finger-touch away.

Palazzo Steyn, on William Nicol Drive, is just that and more. It’s the home of insurance tycoon Douw Steyn, and the first house in Steyn City, the multibillion rand development that is set to become one of the largest and most exclusive gated estates in Southern Africa.

Douw Steyn also owns The Saxon, an exclusive boutique hotel in Johannesburg. In 2010 Panavision Evolve automated audio-visual (AV), lighting, and climate control throughout the hotel. This they successfully accomplished using Crestron products, and PROMAG magazine featured the Saxon AV installation as the cover article in 2010 (fourth quarter).

When it came to the job of automating Palazzo Steyn with state-of-the-art technology, Panavision Evolve were the obvious choice. Jaco Potgieter was the system designer on the project, and he was backed up by Panavision Evolve’s Colin Sachs (Programmer) and Nicholaas Potgieter (Install Team Leader), as well as Stephen Falke (Interior Designer), and Rupert Denoon (Crestron Regional Manager). For Jaco, and his team, this was the perfect opportunity to “show off the power and flexibility of Crestron.”

Their brief as integrators for the 3 000m² property, which is on a 2.5ha stand, included

lighting control, climate control, AV, and the control of Roman-style aqueducts that encircle the home.

The lighting system comprises around 270 circuits, serving a vast array of lights, including: crystal chandeliers, picture lights, and LED down lights. Keypads were specially fitted with brass cover plates, to match the décor of the house. Touch-screens offer slider control, with press-and-hold user pre-sets, and Crestron’s new smart graphics ensure a fresh and appealing design. Motion sensors, installed in various areas, save energy and simplify control.

When the African heat becomes too much for guests, or they are surprised by the evening Highveld chill, they can turn to the closest Crestron touch screen for climate control. Because it’s a big house, the system needs to be powerful enough to handle the complexities of creating different climates in myriad rooms. The Panavision Evolve team installed a 3-Core processor which, thanks to Crestron’s built-in Bacnet integration, provides seamless and simple control.

Excessive comfort can give rise to boredom; should this happen guests can, at a touch, activate the AV system. The sheer scale of the Palazzo Steyn AV system demanded a beast of a switcher - capable of ultra-fast digital video/audio switching, and lossless HD multi-room signal distribution for all types of AV sources. Jaco chose the Crestron 32x32 DigitalMedia matrix switcher, knowing it has the required roar for such a big and complex project. The size of the home also necessitated a multi-

mode fibre-based system. The Adagio 42-zone background music system ensures that music reaches the various entertainment areas: wine cellar, bar, lounges, drawing room, dining areas, patios, gyms, spa and pool. It even reaches the bathrooms, which have been equipped with motion sensors in order to set the right mood for ablutions: Lights! Music!

For those seeking a big-screen thrill there are two cinemas, and both boast the ultimate in surround sound: Crestron’s PROCISE™ range. It’s as good as being at the movies.

But Palazzo Steyn is not all about transient pleasures; the Roman style aqueducts encircling the home offer the tranquil delights of flowing water. Crestron gives users control of a large system that pumps the water into a dam, creating a breath-taking waterfall.

The Steyns, together with Panavision Evolve and Crestron, have created a Palazzo fit even for the most demanding Roman emperor, and certainly fit for even the most discerning overseas guests. As Steyn, the proudly South African founder of Auto & General, said, "My wife and I are looking forward to entertaining our friends and business partners from all over the world at our new residence, while also exposing them to our magnificent country."

Friends and partners of the Steyns will also be looking forward to their stay at the Palazzo, where, thanks to the excellent planning and hard work of the Panavision Evolve team, they can expect five star service and entertainment.

Crestron's UFO Waterproof WirelessLCD Remote

13PROMAG – first quarter 2014

cover story

PANAVISION EVOLVEPanavision Evolve are situated in Kramerville in Johannesburg, and were founded 20 years ago by brothers, Barry and Claude Jardim. They are still directors in the company, along with Jaco Potgieter and Ricky Dos Santos. Panavision Evolve started as a small family concern, but has since evolved into a thriving business employing some 25 dedicated staff.

Jaco describes the company ethos as, “relationship and solutions driven.” He notes: “We’ll deliver solutions to small houses, or big corporates, the size of the job is not the issue. It’s about finding a solution that works for clients.” And, as Jaco points out, Panavision Evolve have a wide array of clients in various sectors, including commercial, hospitality, corporate, training, and residential. Service to these clients includes: automation, building management, green products, and anything AV.

Douw Steyn is one client who has been more than happy with the solutions that Panavision Evolve have delivered, including what they achieved at The Saxon. While the Palazzo Steyn job was relatively big, The Saxon was four times bigger: there were 72 zones that needed separate control functions. When faced with complex jobs like this, Panavision Evolve are thankful for their strategic partnerships with the likes of Crestron and Electrosonic SA. As Jaco notes, “We can lean on them for help with design, when required.”

A perfect example of this was when Crestron helped Panavision Evolve by writing the code for the Bacnet control of the air-conditioning at Palazzo Steyn. Jaco is proud of this industry first, as he is of the installation of Crestron’s PROCISE™ PSPHD high-definition 7.3 surround sound audio processor. The first one of these in the country was in the Panavision Evolve demo room. Palazzo Steyn has two of them, one in the master bedroom and one in the lounge/cinema area.

When probed on the secret to Panavision Evolve’s success Jaco replied: “Our team spirit is high, and we have good, skilled people working for us. We’ve adopted the attitude that we don’t support mediocrity: what you put in is what you get out.

Crestron's professional Procise surround sound system

Central control at its best, Crestron Processing and Distribution and Crestron Centralised Lighting

Crestron Touch Panels conveniently placed throughout the residence

A job as a cashier may not seem like the best start for a singing career, but if the job is at Shoprite Checkers then it could just be the perfect start. The Shoprite Group runs a performance competition, Shoprite Topstars, to benefits ordinary workers. It’s a talent search that gives Shoprite employees the opportunity to actualise their dreams of becoming a singing star.

For the 2013 competition The Shoprite Group had almost two thousand entries from across Africa. The gala finale was held at the Good Hope Centre in Cape Town, where eleven acts wowed the audience and the judges. The event was managed by AmaGroove, whose primary focus is music production. To help them with the technical side of the event they called in CCPP Professional Productions. CCPP is run by a man who, like the aspirant singers of Shoprite, has taken the famous Rocky Horror Show lyric, “Don’t dream it, be It”, to heart.

Clint Cawood founded CCPP in 2006, with the aim of: “making a difference to the way Industry supplied and delivered service to clients.” Shoprite Topstars 2013 was one of the year’s high-points for CCPP as they went all out to ensure it was a fitting finale to this unique corporate talent show.

The main challenge for Clint and his team was to create an entire truss grid in order to position the lighting and projection exactly where the client wanted it. Creating magic on stage takes thousands of hours practice from the stars, and also the dedication of the technical crew whose unsung work is so crucial to the success of an event. AmaGroove’s Mynie Grové had this to say about the partnership: “In tackling an extremely difficult venue CCPP pulled out all the stops; partnering in a production that empowers ordinary people to do extraordinary things. We all need magic to make our visions reality: CCPP coloured our world with a professional and imaginative contribution.”

DON'T DREAM IT,BE IT

feature

– first quarter 201414 PROMAG

feature

Lighting• 32 Martin Mac 101s• 12 Martin Mac 350• 18 Martin Mac Aura• 2 Jem Compact Hazers• 1 Jem ZR44• 28 Versa-Lite LED Battons• 32 Versa-Lite RGBW Outdoor High Powers• 24 Ledforce 7's• 24 Source 4 Pars• 8 Source 4 36Deg Profiles• 3 Lumen Radio DMX Transmitters• 5 Lumen Radio DMX Receivers• All controlled with a Martin M1 Console

Rigging• 220 Meters of Litec Truss QX 30 & 40• 14 CM Loadstar 500kg• 8 CM Prostar 250kg

CCPP Professional Productions is a young and dynamic company specialising in technical services and equipment for the events industry. CCPP have a passion for using the best equipment, and this helps them deliver high quality events. CCPP places a big emphasis on partnering with clients in order to create the best possible event for them. As Clint Cawood, Founder and Director, notes: “We try build partnerships and relations with people that grow and last.” The best way to grow a partnership is to put in the hard yards, something Clint, and his team, do not shy away from: “We work hard, and just when we think we may be done, we work a little harder.” Little wonder that CCPP are highly respected event industry experts in the Garden Route area – they have a branch in Cape Town, and one in George. And their portfolio includes a wide array of events: car launches, music concerts, corporate events, corporate balls, weddings etc. Clint hints at one of the keys to CCPP’s success: “We believe we have to constantly ignite our passion – do what we love. That makes it easier to deliver the best possible service.”

ABOUT CCPP

15PROMAG – first quarter 2014

A Videowall Controller dating from the 1990s

The kit used to make it a night to remember

Video• 1 Coolux Quad Server & Manager• 2 Barco RLM 6 Projectors• 2 Christie 14k Roadsters• 2 6 x 3,4m Screens• 4 4.5 x 2.5m Screens for Set fills

Sound• 1 Yamaha M7cl• 12 x Vertec 4888 Mid-Hi• 8 x Vertec 4880• 6 x IT 5000HD Amplifiers• 10 x IT 9000HD Amplifiers• 8 x PRX 12" Monitors

featured products

DM-RMC-4K-100-C DIGITALMEDIA 8G+™ RECEIVER & ROOM CONTROLLER 4K-100-C

TSW-552, TSW-752, TSW-1052 TOUCH SCREENS

– first quarter 201416 PROMAG

The DM-RMC-4K-100-C provides a simple one-box interface solution for a single display device as part of a complete Crestron® DigitalMedia™ system. It functions as a DM 8G+™ receiver and control interface, providing a single HDMI® output along with Ethernet, RS-232, and IR control ports. In addition to DM 8G+, it is also compatible with HDBaseT® specifications, allowing it to be connected directly to any HDBaseT compliant source. Its compact, low-profile design allows the DM-RMC-4K-100-C to be installed discreetlybehind a flat panel display or above a ceiling mounted projector. It connects to the head end or source location using a single CAT5e or Crestron DM 8G® cable.

• Handles 4K Ultra HD video resolutions• Handles Dolby® TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio™, and uncompressed

7.1 linear PCM audio• Provides a 10/100 Ethernet connection• Enables device control via CEC, IR, RS-232, and Ethernet• Compatible with USB-EXT-DM USB Extenders• Allows quick, easy setup and diagnostics• Low-profile surface mount design • Powered via the DM connection or local power pack (included)

KEY FEATURES

• DigitalMedia 8G+™ receiver and display controller • DM 8G+™ input supports up to 330 ft (100 m) cable length• Connects to a DM® switcher or transmitter over one CAT5e or

Crestron® DM 8G® cable• HDBaseT® Certified — Enables direct connection to a third-party

HDBaseT source• Provides one HDMI® or DVI display output• Handles Full HD 1080p video with Deep Color, 3D, and HDCP

Space-saving wall, lectern, or tabletop touch screens featuring a clean, contemporary appearance with edge-to-edge glass and advanced high-definition Smart Graphics™.

Features on-board voice recognition, Web browsing, H.264 streaming video, Rava™ SIP Intercom, and PoE network power.

KEY FEATURES• Ultra clean, modern appearance• Thin profile and small footprint• Affordable and easy to install• 5”, 7" or 10” widescreen active-matrix color display• Capacitive touch screen technology• Smart Graphics™ support• High-performance H.264 streaming video • Rava™ SIP intercom and phone technology• Customizable audio feedback• Voice recognition capability• Web browsing• On-screen keyboard• Customizable screensaver• Built-in microphone and speakers • 5 soft-touch capacitive buttons • Single-wire Ethernet connectivity• PoE network powered • Supports US or European electrical wall box mounting• Can be mounted directly to drywall or paneling over a cutout• Compatible with TSW-UMB Universal Mounting Bracket• Compatible with TSW-RMB Retrofit Mounting Brackets• Compatible with TSW-XXX-FMKT Flush Mount Kits• Pre-construction and masonry mounting options available• Available tabletop and swivel mount options• Available in smooth black or white finish

CRESTRON SmartSpace™

featured products

Smart Space is the new multi-person, multi-display solution that delivers advanced enterprise-wide communication and HD video conferencing. Smart Space is a complete open architecture solution. It’s engineered to provide simple setup and operation, so you can spend your time more productively, instead of trying to get everything to work. The Smart Space package includes everything you need.

Developed by Crestron for use with Cisco® conferencing and infrastructure, Smart Space enables you to easily take control of meetings with its standardized, intuitive user interface. A repeatable, flexible, and scalable solution, Smart Space is simple to integrate, manage, and maintain. The code is already written, so no programming is required, saving you time and money.

Easy to deploy and manage

• Engineered for easy integration, management, and maintenance• Crestron provides the Smart Space pre-engineered program

and quick start installation guide to authorized dealers, all at no charge

• Crestron authorized dealers load the program, use the built-in setup pages to instantly configure the system, and the customer receives a fully configured and streamlined system that is easy to use

• Takes the guesswork out of specifying and delivering HD video conferencing systems

• Enables technology managers to maximize investment in AV and communication technologies for conference rooms, training rooms, and other meeting facilities

• Scalable to your entire enterprise – deploy to one room or many, with consistent performance and ease of use in every room

• Scalable to allow remote management, maintenance, and concierge services

17PROMAG – first quarter 2014

featured products

ezCinema PLUS SERIES

FEATURES & BENEFITS

• Easy to transport and set up for traveling presentations, or the "Home Theatre in A Box"

• Self-standing “Pull-up & Project” cross-spring mechanism• MaxWhite screen material is durable and easy to clean• Wide projection viewing angle• Built-in carrying handle for enhanced mobility• Rugged aluminium casing protects the screen

• Includes 3/4" black top/side masking with adjustable bottom rise masking

• Available in different sizes and aspect ratios• Includes nylon carrying case with shoulder strap• 2-Year warranty

Deluxe Grade Floor Screen

Portable Floor Up Projection Screen

JEM READY 365™

The new Jem Ready 365 is a revolutionary C02 hazer that produces outstanding fine-particulate atmospheric effects for larger venues. Using an advanced water-based fluid that gives a comparable performance to oil, this premium hazer produces the ultimate transparent haze.

The Jem Ready 365 Hazer houses advanced technology like automatic shutdown with battery backup to prevent clogging and OFG (Out of Gas) technology that allows the Ready 365 to produce limited haze even after gas pressure loss, giving the user time to change the gas cylinder. It also sips small amounts of fluid and leaves no residue or smell.

The easy-to-use plug and play system requires minimal set up time.Coupled with a list of innovative features and nearly silent in operation, the Jem Ready 365 is the ideal hazer for theatres, shows, events, TV studios, clubs, cruise ships, theme parks and much more.

A league of its own!

KEY FEATURES• Water-based fluid - comparable performance to oil

• Long hang time

• Integrated airflow director for smooth haze distribution

• Stored settings from last operation and programmable fast access keys

• Easy to use and set-up

• Gas pressure readout on display

• Inert gas operation with low gas pressure warning (via display and RDM)

• 3.5 L fluid storage in machine (approx. 200+ hours operation at low output)

• External gas cylinder with quick-connect fittings (self-sealing type)

• Low gas consumption. Expected max gas consumption 0.25 kg per hour

• DMX control with RDM as standard

• Robust, precision pre-set regulator without gauge for maximum durability (accessory)

featured products

19PROMAG – first quarter 2014

featured products

– first quarter 201420 PROMAG

The projector lift SI-100 is a versatile and innovative product that enables the installation of projectors in environments where particular aesthetical solutions are needed. The product has been developed to be installed inside false ceilings in order to hide projector, lift and cables, thus granting the best aesthetic and practical solution. It has an extremely SILENT motor that allows a descent from a minimum of 16 cm to a maximum of 90 cm.

The SI-100 is supplied with an extremely SILENT motor that allows a descent from a minimum of 16 cm to a maximum of 90 cm.

Moreover, the SI-100 is supplied with a particular system that allows an easy fixing of a panel of your false ceiling by the threaded bars that are height adjustable. One more interesting element of this lift is a CABLES GATHERING SYSTEM with a raceway to place the cables of the projector, so they will be hidden and tidy gathered together when the projector lift is going up.

Other models are available for various installation options.

MILOS STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

Stage KitsA seamless combination of versatility and stability, our xStage Platform Systems are designed to provide users with an infinite range of size and configurations.We offer both standard stage packages and specific stage configurations to create platforms and risers. All stage decks are fully compatible with Prolyte.

xStage S3S3 is the perfect self-build platform system for basic stage applications. The light-weight aluminium profile combines with a rigid deck construction to create simple stage configurations. The low-profile stage is available with outdoor (water-resistant) plywood or plexi-glass or honeycomb composite deck.

PROJECTOR LIFT SI-100

xStage S8S8 is an extremely versatile heavy-duty platform system enabling users to construct large size stages in almost any configuration imaginable. The specially designed S8 profile enables the platforms to be combined with Layher, one of the world´s leading scaffolding systems, to provide a vast range of products and accessories for all stage applications. The comprehensive range of components featured in the S8 range includes custom shapes and loading ramps to add perfect form and function to any platform project.

21PROMAG – first quarter 2014

featured products

MultiSync® X462UNV ULTRA-THIN VIDEOWALL SOLUTIONS FOR 16/7 PERFORMANCE IN RETAIL SPACES & PUBLIC DISPLAY

The MultiSync® X462UNV is a 46-inch LCD public display that offers outstanding videowall features at an affordable price. Its FHD (1920 x 1080)resolution and 5.7mm total bezel width allow for impressive high resolution videowalls with barely visible seams.

MultiSync X462UNV is the second generation of 46” class video wall products with additional features only NEC can provide. The product is compatible with all accessories designed for the predecessor to guarantee a smooth transition between the two products.

MultiSync X462UNV addresses installations requiring high brightness due to edgelit LED Light source and heavy duty performance typically found in retail signage or Public display.

The LCD MultiSync® X462UNV displays combine commercial grade LCD panel, automatic thermal management, remote monitoring functionality and the NEC ‘no-compromise’ approach to manufacturing resulting in the highest benchmark in public display technology. NEC delivers outstanding innovation with a guarantee of performance that has made it a consistent market leader in the signage sector.

SPECIAL CHARACTERISTICS• Advanced fan control• Copy display settings through RS232• DICOM support• EdgeComp• Hardware colour calibration possible• Input name adjustment• LAN with SNMP support• Matrix memory• OSD rotation for portrait mode• PIN as theft protection• Programmable ambient light sensor• Rapid input switching• Scheduler; Screen saver functions• TileMatrix (10 x 10)• User input priority definition• Various picture in picture options

With high brightness and low power, industrial-strength design, powerful modular network connectivity and low maintenance option slot, these displays are ideal for heavy duty 16/7 operation in environments such as advertising, information walls or events and interactive touch super-walls.

DICOM support - for medical applications.

Ease of Installation and Operation - free LAN control software for central, convenient and cost-efficient maintenance and control. Automatic alarm emails notify the user of problems if they should occur.

Large number of Accessories - various wall mount solutions and a decorative overframe kit to offer a complete one stop shopping solutions experience.Option Slot STv1 - for DVI daisy chain board, built-in PCs, mediaplayer and other slot in boards.

Programmable Ambient Light Sensor - for reduced power consumption and eye pleasing brightness levels.

A more affordable videowall option

NEC PH1400U – HIGH BRIGHTNESS PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION PROJECTOR

bayonet lenses and an integrated stacking/rigging frame make it ideal for Rental/Staging, Large Corporate, High Education, Conference Room, Museum and Signage.

KEY FEATURES• WUXGA resolution and superb brightness

levels and colour ranges• Motorized Lens Shift with vertical and

horizontal adjustment and Lens Memory• Network cost-saving, convenient, maintenance

and management of content and scheduling• Great picture quality even in bright ambient

light because of high projector brightness and excellent 10-Bit Hollywood Quality Video signal processing

NEC P451W - PROFESSIONAL PROJECTOR• 4500 ANSI Lumens• WXGA (1280x800)• 4000:1 Contrast Ratio

NEC PE401H – PORTABLE PROJECTOR• Only 4.6Kg• 4000 ANSI Lumens• Full HD (1920x1080)

• Best reliability and system stability because of 2 lamp system and full metal cabinet

• Geometric correction, Light Shutter, Stacking function, built -in Edge Blending function and much more

• Best connectivity supporting nearly all signal sources, as HDMI and even DisplayPort. First projector worldwide, which supports STv2 OPS based Slot-In modules for highest input flexibility as for example Single Board Computer or 3G HDSDI interface

• Latest network technology enables not only many ways of projector control by network but also easy picture transfer

• Active 3D support for single projector 3D presentation

The PH1400U, a high-end 3-Chip installation projector is ideal for installations that demand the highest levels of heavy duty usage and unique picture quality in highest resolution. Five optional

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GALAXY PRO VIDEO WALL CONTROLLER SOLUTIONS

The GALAXY range of controllers is a highly expandable and flexible solution for video wall and multi-screen display applications, offering various display configuration possibilities. Whether you require a simple 4 screen data wall or a complex system, GALAXY hardware can be tailor-made to suit your needs.

The controllers are optimised for operation with the latest generation of PCI express graphics and video capture cards. The GALAXY PRO can also be used with the GALAXY PRO-X expansion chassis.

FUNCTIONALITY: • Redundant power supplies and hard drives• Input cards cater for almost any type

of video signals, from legacy analogue signals to the latest high definition signals

• The outputs are just as flexible with cards that cater for DVI, HDMI, RGB and VGA

• Easily integrates with control systems such as Crestron

• Wall control software allows for user configurable layouts and input selections

VIDEO & GRAPHICS WALL CONTROLLERVIDEO & GRAPHICS WALL CONTROLLERGALAXY

The GALAXY X4 is a perfect product for an entry level video wall processor and it supports several variations of screen configuration.

FEATURES: • 1 to 40 Display channels using the WALL-4

graphics card• 4 to 128 video capture channels using the

VideoSD8 or VideoSD4+1 capture cards• 1 to 32 RGB/HD/DVI capture channels using

the DVI-RGB capture cards• 1 or 2 GALAXY PRO-X expansion chassis

providing a maximum of 25 PCI express slots• Wall Control Software

VP-774: 9−INPUT HDMI, 3G HD−SDI & HDBASET PROSCALE PRESENTATION SWITCHER/SCALER WITH 2K SUPPORT

KRAMER K-TOUCHK-touch, Kramer's application for iOS, allows AV installers to easily integrate common touch devices as user interfaces in a Kramer-based, room control system. Using the application first requires a Kramer Room Controller unit, with the required configuration file, as well as designing the dynamic application screens on the Kramer K-touch screen builder. Once the dynamic application screens are ready, download the K-touch application, sync it with your screens on Kramer's server and continue to configure the selected controllers IP properties.

The VP−774 is a high−performance presentation switcher and scaler. It accepts one of nine inputs: one 3G HD−SDI, one DisplayPort (DP), one composite video, two computer graphics and four HDMI signals. It scales the video, embeds the audio, and simultaneously outputs the signal to two HDMI, one SDI and one HDBaseT TP output, together with S/PDIF and balanced stereo audio outputs.

• Scaled Outputs - 2 HDMI, 1 SDI and 1 HDBaseT TP simultaneously • HDTV and computer graphics up to 2K and 1080p/UXGA with selectable

refresh rates• Advanced Deinterlacing Functions • HDMI Deep Color Support • Luma Keying - Via PIP window • Vertical Keystone Operation • Built-in Proc-Amp - With enhanced functions such as colour correction,

gamma and dither• Built-in Time Base Corrector - Stabilizes unstable video sources • Unbalanced stereo audio inputs, with two microphone inputs; digital

stereo and balanced stereo outputs; input and output audio level adjustment

• Selectable Microphone Talkover or Mix Modes • Automatic Detection and Selection of Embedded Audio• SDI Channelling • Range - Up to 130m (430ft) HDBT; up to 180m (590ft) Ultra mode (1080p

@60Hz @24bpp) when using BC−DGKat623 cables

APPLICATIONS:• Projection systems in conference rooms, boardrooms, auditoriums,

hotels and churches, production studios, rental and staging • Any application where high quality conversion and switching of

multiple and different video signals to graphical data signals is required for projection purposes

TBUS-10XL: TABLE MOUNT MODULAR MULTI−CONNECTION SOLUTION − MANUALLY RETRACTING LID• Options - Inner frames, passive wall plates and interfaces, power

socket kits, power cord, T−2INSERT kit, T−RC−8IR kit, T−RC−76 kit, T−RC−78 kit, Kramer K−Able Box (furniture−mounted cable extension).

KEY FEATURES:• Ultra−stable picture−in−picture, picture−and−picture, and split screen

capability • Kramer’s precision pixel mapping and high quality scaling technology• State−of−the−Art Video Processing Technology - For highest quality

de−interlacing, noise reduction, and scaling performance for both standard−definition and high−definition signals

• Video switching transitions are clean and ultra fast• HDTV Compatible• HDCP Compliant - The HDCP (High Definition Content Protection)

license agreement allows copy−protected data on the HDMI input to pass only to the HDMI output

• Advanced EDID Management - Per input; analyzes the EDID of a selectable Master connection to one of the outputs

• Emergency Alert System Max. Data Rate - 6.75Gbps (2.25Gpbs per graphic channel)

• Multi-Standard SDI Support - SDI (SMPTE 259M), HD−SDI (SMPTE 292M) and 3G HD−SDI (SMPTE 424M)

KEY FEATURES• Cover - Manually opens & closes. • Inner Frames - T10F−22M can accommodate a combination of up

to 2 power sockets, 2 inserts, 1 opening for a Kramer MegaTOOL SID−X1; T10F−33 contains 3 power sockets and 3 inserts.

• Power Sockets - 11 different "TS" single and 10 dual power socket options are available to accommodate the power requirements worldwide.

• Power Cord - 8 different "C−AC" single power cords (and 3 "Y" power cords) for each power socket. UL and CE qualified.

• Connector Depth - Adjustable. • Installation Requirement - Table cutout of 245mm x 154mm (9.65"

x 6.07"). • Dimensions - Top plate: 171.6mm x 261mm (6.8" x 10.3") W, D. • Weight - TBUS−10xl: 1.35kg (2.8lbs) approx.; table clamps: 0.25kg

(0.6lbs) approx. • Accessories - TBUS clamps (part of the TBUS enclosure), cut−out

template, template screws, self−locking ties. • Size - T-BUS®

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23PROMAG – first quarter 2014

NOTE: The TBUS enclosure, inner frame, power socket(s), power cord & inserts are purchased separately.

solve a ground loop problem in a system. Doing this will remove the ground from the device, thus increasing the risk of electric shock. The ground on electrical devices is intended as a safety feature to protect the users and the devices.

When using a twisted pair transmitter and receiver system in an AV application test for ground loops in the same way as above, being sure to test the shield of the cable that will connect the twisted pair receiver to the display device.

Other Ways to Prevent and Solve Ground LoopsOne way to prevent ground loops is to transport the video and audio signals over fiber optic transmitter and receiver systems. Fiber optic solutions prevent ground loops by avoiding the use of any metallic conductors. As previously discussed, the metallic conductor in AV cables is the glue that ties the system devices together, enabling ground loops.

There are devices on the market designed to remove or isolate ground loops in video and audio systems. These devices are known as Ground Loop Isolators, or GLIs. They safely isolate the current that is traveling on the ground of the devices in the system. Keep in mind that GLIs can normally handle 3-4 volts. Any voltage beyond the specification of the GLI will damage the unit, and render it useless.

ConclusionGround loop issues are the largest contributors to AV system complications. They can severely damage equipment, injure the user, or cause signal noise and degradation. Most manufacturers’ warranties do not cover damage to products due to ground loops.

Every system should be tested thoroughly for ground loop current or voltage before connecting devices. If you are not sure if there is a ground loop in the system, consult a licensed electrician.

The shield of the connection cables are generally connected to the chassis of the device which is an unprotected surface, introducing the risk of electric shock to the user and damage to the equipment.

Ground Loops in the AV World?There’s no such thing, right? Wrong. Ground loops are a leading cause of equipment failures and signal complications in the AV world. A ground loop is created when a current (either AC or DC) connects the grounds of two devices that should have the same ground potential but are different. This current can cause symptoms that can vary anywhere from signal noise, to a floating “video hum bar,” to an audio “buzz,” to a total equipment failure, and even electric shock. There are many cases in which integrated circuits or printed circuit boards inside affected devices are visibly damaged or burned due to ground loops.

As seen in the example below, many systems – simple or complicated can utilize multiple different ground potentials. This is a common occurrence because the AV source and the display device are quite often in two different locations, and thus using different electrical outlets. The problem occurs when the ground potential of V1 is different than the ground potential of V2. When the AV source and the display device are connected together with a copper or aluminum cable, the two different ground potentials create a ground loop using the shield of the cable. This cable could be a video cable, audio cable, or any other type of metallic conductor cable.

Testing for and Solving Ground LoopsSystems can and should be tested for ground loops before connecting the two sides of the system with the copper or aluminum cable. This is done by using a multi-meter or volt-meter. For example, when setting up the system above, place one probe from the multi-meter on the shield of the copper or aluminum cable that is connected to the AV source before the cable is connected to the display device. Place the other probe on the ground that is connected to Power Outlet 2. Test for both AC and DC voltage. If there is any voltage greater than one volt, consult with a licensed electrician. NEVER use a three prong to two prong adapter, also known as a “Ground Lifter” to

tutorial

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GROUND LOOPS IN THE AV WORLD – By Brian Morris, CTS