Biamp Systems opens its InfoComm 2011 show by introducing Tesira, a highly scalable media system for digital audio networking using Audio Video Bridging (AVB) as the primary digital media transport.

“Tesira,” says Biamp, “...changes the scale of possibilities for the way communications systems are designed, installed and experienced, affording integrators, distributors and consultants a new world of configuration options based on IT infrastructure.”

Unlike most DSP-based media systems, Tesira is an enterprise-wide solution made up of intelligent network modules that share and boost performance. It is equipped with modular scalable inputs and outputs, DSPs and networked end-points, providing system design capabilities for unlimited scenarios, including Centralized, Distributed and Hybrid type applications. Integrators have the option of customizing Tesira with up to 8 DSP-2s , for a total of 16 DSPs, in a single chassis, with up to 420 by 420 audio channels over a scalable digital media backbone (AVB).

Using AVB as the primary media transport technology, Tesira is able to synchronize multiple streams of audio and video and eliminate buffering delays while also creating resource reservation. This ensures that integrators have a single, dedicated network for all media, including AVB and non-AVB traffic.

Steve Metzger, President, Biamp Systems, adds "Tesira is unlike anything seen by the industry. We believe it represents a huge leap forward in the progression of our networked media systems concept, and we're excited for our customers to put their hands on it for the first time. This product challenges conventional thinking about design and scalability, and to say that I'm excited about it would be an understatement."

Tesira software provides easy configurability and greater expansion potential with partitions and Biamp's unique compilation engine. The Biamp compilation engine automatically creates the digital audio transport connections and automated hardware specifications needed to complete a system design. The compilation engine performs a number of operations in a matter of seconds (from checking that the design is complete, to determining the most cost-effective list of Biamp hardware required, to finally documenting the necessary system interconnects to ensure proper, stable operation).

Tesira will ship in January 2012 and will be backed by “the only 5-year warranty in the industry.” Biamp will begin offering Tesira training sessions in late 2011.

Go Biamp’s Tesira

Crestron adds the DM-RMC-200-C DigitalMedia 8G Receiver & Room Controller. Featuring a built-in HD video scaler and 30-watt stereo amplifier, DM-RMC-200-C provides a single HDMI output, plus speaker and line level audio locally to each display, delivering HD display resolutions and audio performance in any room on a DigitalMedia 8G AV network.

DM-RMC-200-C accepts any video source from standard 480i to HD 1080p60 with Deep Colour, plus all computer sources, and scales them perfectly for the best possible experience in every room.

“The DM 8G Receiver & Room Controller takes any video input signal and scales it to any resolution, no matter what format your HD display is,” says Robin van Meeuwen, VP Sales and Marketing for Crestron International. “Now, video signals with all sorts of different resolutions, including analogue sources and laptops, are displayed in 1080p, giving each room the best possible viewing experience.”

ReQuest launches the F3, packing its multi-zone Serious Play server technology into a new compact chassis.

For clients more serious about their music it plays 96kHz/24-bit HD audio (as well as conventional mp3 files), together with streaming radio, NetSync for iTunes and Pandora support. It also carries out automatic dual encoding.

The MediaPlayer (or IMC) allows for HD media playback, with support for online video services (YouTube, Hulu, Netflix), archived DVDs and blu-ray changer control (via additional blu-ray connection kit). It can also act like another audio zone, allowing one to stream music on a connected home theatre system.

The F3 handles up to x3 NAS devices, while the fanless chassis (and internal SSD as an option) ensure silent operation.

Go ReQuest F3 Server

Sure, at InfoComm Remote Technologies Incorporated (RTI) will show their latest residential and commercial control products…you’ll find their Central Control Processor (XP-6, XP-3), In-Wall Touchpanel Controller, RTiPanel App (for Apple’s iStuff), Distributed Audio Systems (AD-4, AD-8), RTiDock, and RTI Virtual Panel.

But Europeans may be more excited about two other news items coming out from RTI.

First, RTI adds a new solution for control of KNX-compatible devices and systems such as lighting and climate control. Developed by RTI's European distribution partner VIVATEQ (a member of the COMM-TEC group), this two-way integration was created specifically to meet the needs of the European market. Utilizing any of RTI's XP series of control processors, the two-way software driver works together with the CTG-KNX/IP Gateway device to provide seamless integration of all functions and feedback of a KNX system on RTI's two-way-enabled handheld and in-wall controllers.

Borg's biggest in-wall touch controller, the Protégé 21w, gets Windows 7 embedded (WES) OS upgrade to its 21.5" capacitative multitouch display and an Intel Atom 1.6Ghz processor.

The controller carries 4GB DOM and 2GB RAM, alongside the latest Button Monitor (4.01) and Media Player 12. The hardware connects via either LAN, RS 232, USB or PS/2, and comes with x2 speakers, mic, cam and x4 hard buttons on its bezel.

The steel back box includes VESA mount, and the power supply handles 9 - 24V full range DC inpput.

Borg also offers a number of optional extras-- 2-video input card (with remote), wifi networking and a SATA 64GB HDD.

Go Borg Displays

URC ships the MRX-10, a central hub for the company's newly launched Total Control series.

Mounting neatly on the main equipment racks, the MRX-10 stores and issues one-touch automation commands to all the client's IP, IR, RS-232, relay and sensor controlled devices-- allowing control of any kind of device, including those not carrying network technology.

Total Control remotes provide 2-way communications with the system, and installers can also link rooms and share sources.

One can expand the system through LAN and MRX-series sub-base stations, and it is programmable off premises via internet connection.

Go MRX-10 Advanced Network System Controller