NanoLumens and Navori Labs Develop Unified Strategy to Furnish Dynamic Digital Signage Networks

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New partnership integrates NanoLumens’ custom-built, energy-efficient LED displays with Navori Labs’ QL digital signage engine to accelerate, monetize network rollouts.

To address the complicated purchasing and delivery process associated with digital signage network design and deployment, NanoLumens and Navori Labs have joined forces to better support each company’s growing customer base worldwide. This non-exclusive, industry-leading partnership establishes a unified strategy to deliver complete, integrated high-end hardware and software solutions to end users and systems integrators that addresses all supply and service needs up front – and provides the foundation to quickly deploy, scale and monetize dynamic digital signage networks. 

NanoLumens and Navori Labs are renowned worldwide as innovative, high-end suppliers for digital signage networks. NanoLumens, the industry-leading manufacturer and innovator of LED display solutions, differentiates itself from static display suppliers by building displays to any shape, size or curvature. Swiss digital signage specialist Navori Labs powers networks of all sizes through its QL digital signage engine, which provides a flexible, easy-to-use content management system at its core. Deployable on-premises or in the cloud, Navori QL software also delivers exceptional quality and flexible monetization tools that complement the dynamic, pristine visualization associated with NanoLumens LED displays. 

Nathan Remmes, vice president of corporate development, NanoLumens, believes that the partnership signifies a new direction for providing better and more comprehensive customer service for digital signage end users and integrators. 

“The audio-visual and digital signage industries are increasingly seeing the cream of the crop come together to create complete solutions, and provide customers with a better experience,” said Remmes. “It’s similar to what the IT industry went through 20 years ago, accelerating away from a large pool of disparate hardware and software vendors and toward a more unified strategy. Working with Navori Labs, we can more effectively promote the future of digital signage and provide better ownership at the end user level; as well as complete, customized packages for integrators to accelerate deployments.” 

The recently established partnership is already making inroads in the retail, gaming and event venue verticals, including an advertising-supported network in a large Midwest convention center. According to Remmes, NanoLumens suggested the end user replace an in-house built CMS that was plagued by service interruptions, slow loading times and inconsistent screen refreshes. The migration to Navori Labs QL software eliminated network downtime and, through Navori Labs’ new targeted advertising module, quickly put the end user on a path to network monetization. 

The flexibility and reliability of Navori Labs QL software, which can seamlessly drive Windows and Android players from a common user interface, also benefits NanoLumens users that have displays of different shapes and sizes throughout the network. 

“When building displays to different curvatures and dimensions, the customer is also working with varied aspect ratios and resolutions at the input and output,” said Remmes. “This requires a CMS that can adapt to the varying needs and uniqueness of each display. We find that Navori Labs adapts to this flexibility, and accentuates the uniqueness we provide for each display design. In addition, their culture, sales approach and messaging is an ideal match for NanoLumens.” 

Both companies will have a presence at the Digital Signage Expo to discuss the partnership, taking place this Wednesday and Thursday (March 16-17) at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Navori Labs will exhibit at Booth 2218, and NanoLumens will meet with partners and customers in Conference Room 2345 both days. 

“Our combined hardware and software strategy will provide our customers with the tools needed to support the seamless high-quality content transitions, social media integration and detailed ad campaign management that today’s most advanced networks require,” said Jerome Moeri, CEO, Navori Labs. “We are excited to work with another high-end supplier that believes in the future of digital signage, and the benefits it can bring to businesses and consumers alike.”

Montreal is the Next Stop on the Stampede Spring 2016 Big Book of AV Tour & Conference Series!

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After a successful first stop in Salt Lake City, Utah, Stampede’s 2016 Big Book of AV Tour & Conference Series continues to Montreal on March 17th for a day of expert keynote speakers and prominent industry manufacturers.

Continuing on with the ProAV industry’s most heavily anticipated annual tour, Stampede, North America’s largest distributor of Pro AV solutions, today announced that the second stop of its Spring 2016 Big Book of AV Tour & Conference Series will be in Montreal on March 17th. The tour’s first Canadian stop will take place at the Montreal Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Registration is open here.

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“Stampede’s 2016 Big Book of AV Tour offers attendees unprecedented insight into every major product category on the market today,” said Stampede President & COO Kevin Kelly. “In addition to offering engaging informational keynotes, training sessions and product showcases, we’re now bringing our sales team to address any questions and concerns that attendees may have along the way. Our ultimate goal with this tour is to provide attendees with the information and resources they need to further their success.”

The 2016 Big Book of AV Tour & Conference Series offers attendees a first look at the most innovative products on the market, including product showcases in audio, video, display, projection, lighting and staging, digital signage, conferencing, digital content creation, networking, signal distribution, and more.

“Additionally, this year’s tour will build on the industry momentum we generated with Drone Video Systems in 2015,” Kelly said. “Stampede truly made a splash in the ProAV industry with the introduction of drones to our lineup, and this year, we’re going to dive even deeper into how integrators can capitalize on the commercial drone business.”

The first stop kicked off in Salt Lake City, Utah, on March 10th, and according to Kelly, it was a complete hit. “Between the engaging presentations and ample time provided to attendees to network with industry professionals, we set the pace for the remainder of the spring. We are confident that this tour will continue to be a smashing success across North America.”

On March 17th, Montreal tour stop attendees can enjoy a complimentary breakfast at 9:00 AM followed by one-on-one meetings with leading ProAV manufacturers who will be showcasing their newest products. Free CTS-certified training sessions and presentations will follow throughout the day, including, “Atlona, 5 Things You Need to Know Before Installing 4K” by Amelia Vrabel, National Sales Manager at Atlona; “Overview of the Drone/ UAS Industry and Business Potential” by Fred Bivetto, Dean of the School of Flight Training at Unmanned Vehicle University; “Drone Video Systems: A New AV Category for A New Age of Opportunities” by Rob Luther, Sales Representative, Drone Video Systems at Stampede; and “Understanding and Specifying Outdoor LFD with Samsung” by Jonathan Brawn, Principal at Brawn Consulting. Complimentary lunch will follow at 12:00 PM.

Throughout the year, participating tour exhibitors include AEE, Atlona, AVTEQ, Cassio, Chief, Christie, DJI, Display Ten, Epson, Hitachi, HuddleCamHD, JELCO, Ken-A-Vision, LG, Luidia, Lumens, Luxel, Mustang, NEC, Oklahoma Sound, Optoma, Peerless AV, Philips, Planar, Premier Mounts, Ricoh, Samsung, Sharp, Stewart Filmscreen, TAP it, TSI Touch, Unmanned Vehicle University, Vidyo, WePresent WiPG, WilsonPro, and xFOLD.

During the first quarter of 2016, the Stampede BBOAV Tour & Conference tour will also visit Indianapolis, Indiana on March 24th, 2016.

All 2016 Big Book of AV Tour & Conference Series attendees will receive a $50 American Express Gift Card, $500 Stampede Credit, and be entered into a drawing for one of two DJI drones.  

APG Displays to Host its First Ever "Backstage" LED Display Tour at NAB 2016

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Further demonstrating its commitment to providing broadcasters with the most in-depth videowall consultation possible, APG Displays, North America’s leading distributor and integrator of videowalls, today announced that it will be hosting, for the first time ever, a custom “backstage” LED Display tour at NAB 2016.

The tour, which will begin at APG Displays Booth #C11731 and include the booths of industry-leading LED display manufacturers such as Leyard, will be specifically designed for broadcasters who are looking to integrate cutting-edge videowall technology into their studios. Each tour, according to APG Displays President David Weatherhead, will be customized per group according to each broadcaster’s intended application and filming method.

“Our APG Displays LED technology tour will take interested broadcasters on an in-depth walking tour to various LED display manufacturer booths,” Weatherhead said. “Our technical experts, who will serve as our tour guides, will explain the differences between each LED display, answer any questions that arise, and recommend a solution based on the particular application at hand.”

According to Weatherhead, broadcasters are increasingly upgrading their LCD videowalls to LED videowalls- which have a smaller pixel pitch- to provide better quality images and higher resolution. Depending on a broadcaster’s particular filming style, the desired videowall manufacturer, size, or pixel pitch varies. “We are the experts in this technology, particularly for the broadcast sector,” Weatherhead continued. “We have installed LED and LCD videowalls in the world’s most prominent broadcast studios across North America. We have the experience to offer the best recommendation possible to any interested parties.” 

Any NAB 2016 attendees who would like to participate in APG Displays’ “Backstage” LED Display tour can request a date and time here.

“We are truly breaking new ground with an on-site tour that gives customers usable information during the show, opposed to after it,” Weatherhead concluded. “Choosing the right videowall can be confusing and frustrating, but APG Displays is here to help.” 

After the show, APG Displays will be arranging on-site camera tests as required for broadcasters. For more information on APG Displays and videowall technology in broadcast applications, visit Booth #C11731 at NAB 2016 from April 16-21st in Las Vegas, Nevada.

IndyCar Champion Scott Dixon Brings Speed and Agility Home with ELAN

Scott Dixon is a quadruple IndyCar Champion, leading non-U.S. driver in American Championship Cars, and one of the 33 greatest drivers in Indianapolis 500 history. He’s also a husband and father who, when away from home, wants to connect with his family however possible. That’s why, when building his new 7,000-square foot home in Indianapolis, Indiana, he called upon Robert Haecker, Tom Wilburn and Don Wolfe at Triphase Technologies to integrate fast and responsive technology that helps Dixon feel present- even while on the road. To bridge the physical gap and bring Dixon home at a moment’s notice, the Triphase team relied on an ELAN Entertainment and Control System.

“The Dixon family has dealt with slow and finicky control systems in the past,” Triphase Technologies President Robert Haecker said. “We introduced them to a system that provides Dixon with the speed and reliability he needs. Now, he’s able to view security camera footage, monitor the home’s front gate, or check in on his children from literally anywhere in the world.”

Serving as the central hub to all of the smart home’s components, the ELAN gSC10 Controller allows Dixon to control his security system (including garage door integration, 24/7 camera access and driveway gate control), HVAC, automated lighting and multi-room audio and video systems while on-the-go. Accessible on three ELAN TP7 touch panels in the master bathroom, loft and kitchen, four ELAN HR200 remotes and the ELAN g! Mobile app on Scott and his wife Emma’s mobile devices, control is only a touch away.

“My primary goal in building a smart home is to have automation on-the-go,” Dixon emphasized. “Since I travel frequently, I require a fast, easy-to-use system that makes me feel like I’m right at home. So far, I’ve been using the ELAN app every day!”

To see his children while on the road, Dixon utilizes the all-new ELAN Intercom function, enabled through the ELAN 7.2 software upgrade, to call his property from his mobile device. “It’s so fun to check in on the family while using ELAN Intercom—even if it’s just to make sure that the girls are keeping their rooms clean and brushing their teeth!”

Full control of the home and property’s security system is a necessity for Dixon. With exterior cameras in the front foyer, driveway and rear of the home as well as interior cameras in the two children’s bedrooms and the playroom, Dixon is able to monitor the safety of his family. “Remote access to the security system control is one of the most important features of the system for me,” Dixon added. “I want to make sure that the home is secured and armed at all times, especially when I am not there.”

When Dixon is home, entertaining is a priority. To satisfy his love for music and film, the Triphase Technologies team built a fully functional and easy-to-use media center with high quality acoustics and rich visuals. To provide indoor and outdoor audio distribution, Triphase Technologies System Designer Tom Wilburn installed an ELAN S1616 multi-room audio controller and Autonomic MMS-2A Music Server accompanied by Niles outdoor landscape speakers in the exterior, and SpeakerCraft AIM Series 2 speakers and Sunfire HRS-10 subwoofers in the interior.

To complement the audio system, the Triphase Technologies team designed a multi-room video system equipped with an AppleTV, Sony Blu-Ray player and DirecTV satellite receivers with 70”, 60” and 65” Visio TVs in the basement, exercise room and hearth room. “One of the most visually compelling elements of the home is the Future Automation motorized TV lift and custom cabinet, which was built on site,” Wilburn explained. “It’s an exciting architectural element that gives the entertainment center depth and functionality."

Since the Dixon family has come to rely on the ELAN system, the Triphase Technologies team made sure to protect the technology in the event of a power surge. To do so, they installed a Panamax M5300-PM to safeguard the home’s key technological components. “Power protection is just as important as the technology it serves,” Triphase Project-Manager Don Wolfe added.

For the Dixon family, the ELAN system has evolved from a simple convenience to a complete lifestyle transformation. “We recommend the ELAN system with absolute confidence,” Dixon concluded. “In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s a must.”

For more hi-res photos of Scott Dixon’s smart home, click here.

Gary Sinise Foundation Turns to Core Brands to Manage Integrated Smart Home for Marine Corps Veteran

Sgt. Nick Kimmel is a true American hero. After turning down a college baseball scholarship to join the Marines in 2008, his selflessness and patriotism was acknowledged by friends, family members and U.S. citizens alike. As Sgt. Kimmel served in Georgia, Eurasia, building a patrol base for the Georgian army, he landed on a 40-pound improvised explosive device (IED), knocking him unconscious for three days. Soon after, representatives from the Gary Sinise Foundation met the young veteran through the Naval Medical Center in San Diego. Kimmel was interested in applying for the Foundation’s R.I.S.E. program, and once he was medically retired, the wounded warrior’s wish was granted.  Gary Sinise Foundation turned to dedicated sponsors like Core Brands, a Nortek company (NASDAQ: NTK), to design and build a customized smart home to make daily tasks much more manageable.

“The entire Gary Sinise Foundation team was dedicated to standing by Nick through his recovery, and helping him continue to thrive and regain his independence,” Gary Sinise Foundation Executive Director Judy Otter explained. “Being a triple amputee, Nick faces a lot of challenges inside a typical home. Our ultimate goal was to design a home that Nick could easily move around in, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the end result.” 

Leading control, audio and power solutions provider Core Brands and Southern California-based technology integration firm eHome Lifestyle set out to design a one-of-a-kind smart home for Kimmel and his service dog, Rush. Built around an intuitive ELAN Entertainment and Control System, Kimmel can now operate the motorized shades, thermostat, security system, multi-room audio, lighting and entertainment features through ELAN in-wall touch panels, ELAN remote or the ELAN app on his iPhone and iPad.

“The technology in this home was very important for Nick as he mainly uses his prosthetics during the day and his wheelchair in the mornings and evenings,” Otter continued. “Being able to control everything from an iPad helps him tremendously as he doesn’t have to worry about getting into his wheelchair or putting his prosthetics back on to complete a simple task.”

For convenience, the home includes Q Motion motorized window shades, Kwikset motorized door lock, Holovision doorbell with ELAN Intercom, Lutron lighting and thermostat control and more. For entertainment, the home comes equipped with a Niles Auriel multi-room audio controller, offering six zones of audio through Niles and Sunfire speakers and subwoofers; AppleTV; DirectTV; Xbox360; and more. For maximum convenience to Sgt. Kimmel, all systems can all be operated from one ELAN interface.

“We worked with the Gary Sinise Foundation to develop a technology package for Nick’s home,” eHome Lifestyle Systems Designer Matt Kindle explained. “Through the unique customization, the team provided Nick with everything that you can get in a smart home today, including ELAN Intercom. He was most excited about being able to play his own music library through six zones of audio throughout the house and having access to his iTunes movies not just on his computer, but also on his TV through Apple TV.” 

Beyond the technology, the aesthetics of the home include an open floor plan with polished concrete floors; a wide bathroom with a curb-less shower for easy access; and a garage or “shop” for Kimmel to do what he loves: restore old cars. These specialized design features, along with the technological elements, create a beautiful space that allows Nick the maximum amount of freedom and independence. 

“Because our great relationship with Core Brands and other national sponsors this project was very successful,” Otter concluded. “The biggest challenge was making sure all design aspects of the home were tailored to meet the unique needs of Nick, and I am pleased to say those needs were met and the home completed well ahead of schedule.” 

Through the new Smart Home, the Gary Sinise Foundation was able to grant Kimmel a great deal of independence, allowing him to continue to live independently and prosper for decades to come. 

Click here to view and download high-res images of this home.