Extron has started shipping the DVS 605, a video scaler that includes three HDMI inputs, two universal analog video inputs with auto-format detection, plus simultaneous HDMI and analog high resolution outputs.

The DVS 605 accepts a wide variety of video formats including HDMI with HDCP, HDTV, RGB and standard definition video. It features Extron video signal processing with 1080i deinterlacing, Deep Color processing and seamless switching. It also has SpeedSwitch Technology that delivers ultra-fast switching speed for HDCP-encrypted content. It is available in models with audio switching plus HDMI audio embedding/de-embedding and also 3G-SDI/HD-SDI output with genlock.

The DVS 605 features a flexible PIP (picture-in-picture) mode that allows any two video sources connected to inputs one to four to be shown on one display. Several PIP presets are available, including side-by-side windows, and the PIP window can be dynamically sized and positioned anywhere in the image. The DVS 605 also easily integrates analog video sources, with two universal inputs that automatically detect incoming signal formats without user intervention.

All DVS 605 models provide lip sync delay and level adjustments for embedded HDMI audio. The DVS 605 A and DVS 605 AD add five input audio switching to accompany incoming video sources, as well as audio breakaway.

Go Extron DVS 605, Video Scaler

Vision develops a new mounting solution allowing the Techconnect connectivity system to be installed into Hager Tehalit BRN 13070 trunking.

Hager’s trunking products are widely used in Germany. The new Vision product allows professional AV installers to integrate the full gamut of Techconnect modules, including the DisplayPort, Amplifier, and HDMI modules.

Vision has closely matched the Hager shape from the front to blend in with power sockets etc. Installers can use existing cables with the Techconnect faceplate, or Vision’s cables plug into the back of the Techconnect modules via phoenix connectors allowing fast installation and easy serviceability.

Vision’s new German faceplate system will be in stock late June. It will be available as individual parts or sold in a package with the same modules as Vision’s Techconnect Lite package.

Vision products are distributed in the UK, Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany by TD Maverick.

Go Techconnect for Hager Trunking

It appears Google TV is going to make it to Europe after all-- according to financial paper Les Échos Sony is going to launch Google TV-based products on our shores sometime around October 2012.

Speaking with Sony France marketing director Stephan Labrousse, Les Échos says Google TV will come to Europe in 2 flavours-- a regular STB and integrated with a Blu-ray player.

Apparently the remotes for both devices will have a Google Play button giving access to the Google app and content stores. The remotes will recognise voice commands, while Sony will also provide its own on-demand services (such as Music Unlimited).

Labrousse confirms a French launch, while Les Échos says the 2 devices should also launch in the UK, Germany and Spain.

Currently only available in the USA, the Google TV platform failed to make an impact-- early Google partner Logitech ended up describing its own Revue STB as "a mistake of implementation of a gigantic nature." Vendors including Sony, Samsung and LG should be releasing the 2nd generation of Google TV products later this year, with devices carrying ARM (instead of Intel) processors.

Go Google TV Landing in France Next Autumn (Les Échos)

Summer is just around the corner, and your customers will soon want to enjoy their entertainment in the pool or bath--  which is where the Crestron UFO waterproof remote control should come in handy.

"There are all sorts of uses for a waterproof remote that floats," Crestron says. Indeed. The curious saucer-shaped (explaining the name) remote is not only waterproof but also bouyant, meaning users will have no problems should the UFO slip in the hot tub.

The remote has a rugged rubberised outer skin, and is resistant to chlorine and salt water.

Using Crestron 2.4GHz RF technology, the company claims the UFO has a signal range of up to 60m indoors or 305m outdoors, with use of the optional Extended Range RF wireless gateway.

Crestron says the UFO is even ideal for use in hospital operating rooms due to its being resistant to santising solutions.

Go Crestron UFO Waterproof Remote

You’ll have to wait until June when Vision will take stock of their new SP-100V adaptor kit which allows any low impedance loudspeakers (including Vision’s own wall and ceiling loudspeakers) to be used with 100v line amplifiers.

Most amplifiers in AV applications are “low-impedance.” But when more than four speakers are used (for example, in retail applications) then a “100v line amplifier” is required. These will output a higher voltage signal which needs to be converted into useable signal by a transformer at each loudspeaker: so until now specially-equipped 100v line loudspeakers have been required.

Vision adaptor kit will include a pair of transformers contained in certified enclosures for safe mounting in ceiling (plenum) zones. They offer four wattage taps including 4, 8, 16, and 30w and are installed in-line between the 100v amplifier and the low-impedance loudspeakers. Retail pricing GBP 42 or EUR 49 per pair.

Go Vision SP-100V Adaptor

Now available through the Apple App Store, Extron’s MediaLink for iPad is an AV control system app designed for the Apple iPad. It provides users with an additional point of control for up to 12 rooms with an installed Ethernet-enabled MediaLink controller, such as the MLC 104 IP Plus or the MLC 226 IP.

Within the app, each button press is tracked between the app and the controller, allowing both to stay in sync. Presenters can wirelessly control the AV system using a Wi-Fi network, giving them the freedom to move throughout the room.

"The prevalence of iPads in classrooms and boardrooms makes them an obvious choice for a convenient control interface," says Casey Hall, VP Sales and Marketing at Extron. "MediaLink for iPad combines the simplicity of our popular MediaLink controllers and the freedom of a mobile additional point of control."

MediaLink for iPad is compatible with the iPad and iPad 2.

Go MediaLink for iPad