HDTV INSTALLATION KIT

Premier Mounts has developed two HDTV Installation Kits. Designed to simplify the installation process and deliver consumers the peace of mind that comes from knowing that their investment is secure, the HDTV Installation Kit is ideally suited for consumers and professional installers alike. Available in two configurations, the HDTV Installation Kit fits the majority of installation requirements. The AVKLF2637 model supports displays up to 37 inches and the AVKLF3752 model supports displays up to 52 inches. Premier Mounts’ HDTV Installation Kits have a MSRP price of $129.99 for the AVKLF2637 and $199.99 for the AVKLF3752. Visit www.mounts.com.

VIDEOCONFERENCING SYSTEM

Sony has unveiled its newest high-definition videoconferencing technology, the PCS-XG55 system, designed to bring flexible, high-quality and affordable visual communications to a range of commercial applications, including corporate, education, healthcare, and government. The new system delivers up to 720p/60 fps resolution for live video quality and an alternative to face-to-face meetings. It includes the PCS-XG55S HD codec unit, the PCSACXG80 HD camera unit, PCS-A1 microphone, and PCSRF1 RF remote commander. It provides backward-compatibility with current models in Sony’s videoconferencing line, and also offers users a range of features. The new system has the ability to deliver higher image quality and smooth video motion by using BrightFace camera technology. The PCS-XG55 system has a list price of $5,899. Visit www.sony.com.

POWERED LOUDSPEAKER ENCLOSURE

Peavey has announced the new Impulse 12D powered loudspeaker enclosure, which incorporates Peavey audio innovations to give consumers power, sound reproduction, and light weight. The new Impulse 12D powered enclosure features a true ribbon driver and a 12-inch Peavey Black Widow loudspeaker engineered with dual voice coil, pushpull technology, and a neodymium magnet. A Woofer Servo circuit monitors back-EMF and controls cone motion, ensuring the cone’s movement mirrors the driving signal from the power amp, and resulting in very low distortion, high power handling, and low-frequency attack. The Impulse 12D produces 1,200 watts of efficient power while weighing a very lightweight 26 pounds. The Impulse has an MSRP of $1049.99. Visit www.peavey.com.

LIVE VIDEO PRODUCTION SYSTEM

Broadcast Pix has announced Slate Portable, a new system for live video production on location. Designed for quick setup on a table or other work surface, Slate Portable provides all the power of a Slate video production system in a compact, allin- one unit, including: HD/SD production switcher, multi-view monitoring, clip stores, graphics system with Harris Inscriber CG, Fluent workflow software, and format and aspect conversion for 1080i, 720p, SD, and analog. Fold down the cover to reveal the built-in monitor, keyboard, and touchpad, attach cables to secure BNCs and XLRs on the back, and create compelling live video. Slate Portable has a carrying handle on top, and comes in a padded carrying case with wheels for easy transport. It features rugged aluminum construction, measures just 17x14x12 inches. Slate Portable is priced at $20,900 in SD and $24,900 in HD/SD. Visit www.broadcastpix.com.

YPBPR AND STEREO AUDIO OVER CAT-5 SOLUTION

Intelix has announced the release of its latest twisted pair solution, the DIGI-V3A2 extender set. Ideal for commercial and digital signage installations, the DIGI-V3A2 transmits high-definition component video and stereo audio over a single twisted pair cable, such as Cat-5 or Cat-6. The DIGI-V3A2 features 480i, 480p, 576i, 576p, 720p, and 1080i YPbPr video performance and high-fidelity 20 Hz to 20 kHz audio performance up to 1,000 feet over a single twisted pair cable. To ensure the highest possible signal quality, the receive unit features built-in video equalization and skew compensation. Retail price for the Intelix DIGI-V3A2 extender set is $556.95. Visit www.intelix.com.

TENSION PROJECTION SCREEN
Elite Screens has announced the availability of the Raptor Modular Projection Screen. The Modular is the Raptor’s entire screen assembly, which is now detachable from its furniture housing in order to function independently as its own stylishly crafted freestanding front projection surface. This variation from the Raptor is a detachable component that can function on its own as a cased freestanding projection screen. Elite’s Raptor Modular Unit is an electric self-standing projection screen for installations when wall or ceiling screen installations are not practical. Elite Screens’ Raptor modular units are priced at $3,263 USD. Visit www.elitescreens.com.

HDMI OVER COAX EXTENDER

A new HDMI-extending solution from Tributaries Cable, the HXMINI5, is said to be capable of sending a high-definition HDMI signal over five 75-ohm coaxial cables more than 300 feet with no loss of video quality or AV reliability, and does so while retaining full compatibility with the latest HDMI standard, v1.3. The two-piece HXMINI5 comprises a compact powered transmitter and an equally compact passive receiver module. The Transmitter has a single HDMI input. The HXMINI5 is available now at a manufacturer’s suggested price of $500. Visit www.tributariescable.com.

SELF-AMPLIFIED SPEAKER SYSTEM
OWI has expanded its popular self-amplified speaker line with the introduction of an amplified surface mount speaker package. The package is a 30-watt, self-amplified, 2-speakers system that retails for just $199. The low price makes high-quality audio affordable at schools, hotels, churches, businesses, and organizations — wherever equipment such as laptops, projectors, microphones, stereos, or paging systems require audio support. Visit www.owi-inc.com.

LCD PROJECTOR

Christie has announced the launch of a new projector, the Christie LX505. Targeted to the pro AV market, these projectors offer 3D Keystone technology, a new four-corner geometry correction function for versatility in projector placement and easy display set-up. The projector boasts numerous product enhancements over its predecessor, the Christie LX500. In addition to 3D Keystone technology, the projectors feature motorized lens shift, focus and zoom, and come with a suite of high-performance lenses that can be switched with a one-button lens release. They also offer users the ability to upgrade to more advanced network monitoring, and control and display via an optional CCM-LX network module. The Christie LX505 is available at a list price of $5,995.Visit www.christiedigital.com.

DAISY-CHAINABLE VIDEO-OVER-UTP RECEIVER

Hall Research has announced the latest addition to its Mini-Cat series of video-over-UTP product line, the URA-XT. This device receives HD or PC video and audio on standard Cat-5e/6 UTP or STP cables. VGA/YPbPr high-resolution video and audio outputs are available on the unit, as well as an RJ-45 output port for sending the restored signals to downstream receivers. The URA-XT can accommodate a total daisy-chain length of 3,750 feet. The URA-XT supports all PC or HDTV resolutions up to 1920x1200 and is compatible with a broad selection of UVA Senders in the same product category. The unit is housed in a compact metal enclosure with surface mounting provisions and includes a universal power supply. The URA-XT has a suggested retail price of $349. Visit www.HallResearch.com.

POWER CONDITIONER

An update to Furman’s Power Factor Pro, the P-1800 PF is a floor version of the rackmount P-1800 PF R. Ideal for amplifiers, the P-1800 PF provides comprehensive protection with Furman’s Power Factor and Clear Tone Technologies for performance from high-current gear. The P-1800 PF’s new design features a black finish and high-current outlets for instantaneous, low-impedance current delivery. Furman’s Power Factor Technology reduces AC line impedance by providing a 45A peak current reservoir. This gives instrument amplifiers and powered speakers the headroom to operate at maximum efficiency and sound consistent from venue to venue without being subjected to current compression caused by line impedance or resistance. The P-1800 PF is available now at an MSRP of $479. Visit www.furmansound.com.

HDMI FORMAT CONVERTER

KRAMER ELECTRONICS has released the FC-332 3G HD-SDI to HDMI format converter with dual outputs. The unit converts an incoming SDI video and audio signal to two HDMI output signals with the same resolution and frame rate. Prior to the introduction of the FC-332, users would require both an SDI to HDMI format converter and an HDMI DA if an application required the converted signal be sent to two HDMI destinations. The FC-332 accepts a multi-standard SDI signal, either SDI, HDSDI, or 3G HD-SDI on a BNC connector, and converts the video and audio signal into two HDMI signal outputs via HDMI connectors. It also has a looping input on a BNC connector so the original SDI signal can be simultaneously sent to a second destination in its original format. The FC-332 3G HD-SDI to HDMI format converter carries a list price in the U.S. of $950. Visit www.kramermatrix.com.

POWER MANAGEMENT UNIT

To provide users with a greener home theater environment, while cutting down on energy bills, Panamax has introduced the new PM8-GAV, a compact, power management unit. The PM8-GAV combines current-sensing outlets with noise filtration and surge protection in one compact unit to conserve energy, enhance audio and video quality for an optimal experience, and provides users with the peace of mind that their sensitive components are protected. To conserve energy, the PM8-GAV is said to sense when non-essential equipment is in standby mode, also called vampire power, and automatically cuts power off to them, while leaving power on to the equipment that needs to run continuously. The PM8-GAV has an MSRP of $119.95. Visit www.panamax.com.

SURVEILLANCE MIC

A commercial-grade omnidirectional, button-style model with adjustable line-level and internal audio limiter, the new Astatic 210 is a miniature-boundary microphone designed for installation in security, ambient monitoring, and observation applications. Visually unobtrusive, the 210 mic features an output level that is variable from –50 dBv to –10.5 dBV @ 1 Bar to effectively interface with security cameras, digital video recorders, and other observation and recording devices. Astatic’s internal audio limiter circuitry tames high sound pressure levels and improves intelligibility by protecting the audio signal from distorting sensitive recording circuitry in cameras and digital recorders. The MSRP for the Astatic 210 is $300. Visit cadaudio.com.

INTERACTIVE PROJECTION SOLUTION

Epson has introduced the BrightLink 450Wi, an interactive projector that allows educators to turn any standard whiteboard or smooth wall into an interactive learning area. This classroom tool delivers a cost-effective solution for educators to easily integrate interactive capabilities and eliminates the need to purchase and install dedicated interactive whiteboards. The BrightLink 450Wi can project onto any existing whiteboard, wall, or other smooth, hard surface, providing educators with unlimited classroom flexibility. The Epson BrightLink 450Wi offers school administrators a price advantage by providing significantly more usable interactive area than dedicated IWBs. The ultra-short throw Epson BrightLink 450Wi interactive projector comes with two digital infrared pens and wall-mount hardware for easy installation. The Epson BrightLink 450Wi will be available for under $2,000. Visit www.epson.com.