Digital Projection International (DPI, Atlanta GA) is offering a “Lamp Freedom” program for purchasers of HIGHlite Series or TITAN Series projectors from authorized DPI Commercial AV or Home Cinema dealers in the Americas or Canada, from May 1, 2013 and June 30, 2013. The program qualifies the end user for a free set of replacement lamps in years two and three of each projector’s three-year warranty.

Magnetic Media Holdings, Inc. (Magnetic 3D, New York NY), which offers autostereoscopic, “glasses-free” 3D displays and digital signage solutions, has purchased 240,000 shares (18% of the company’s outstanding equity) from former shareholders Peter Zahakos and James Zahakos. In addition, Magnetic 3D satisfied all outstanding loans and other obligations to the Zahakoses.

NashvilleTN-based Gibson Guitar Corp. is buying TEAC Corp. of Japan for about $52 million, continuing the company’s push into the audio equipment industry. TEAC provides audio, video and data-storage equipment. According to a news release, upon completion of the acquisition, through Gibson’s purchase 157.4 million shares of TEAC common stock, TEAC will become a member of the Gibson family. This will not only expand the size and reach of Gibson’s Pro Audio business, with products that both complement and build upon the KRK, Cerwin-Vega! and Stanton portfolio of studio monitors, sound reinforcement equipment and DJ gear respectively, in addition to strategic partner, Onkyo Corp. (Osaka, Japan), but also in future product development, has the potential to add value to the Gibson MI segments, as well as the fretted instrument category.

Hideo Matsushita, Founder and Executive Emeritus of Audio-Technica Corp., died on March 5 at the age of 93. He is being mourned by Audio-Technica U.S. (Stow OH). Phil Cajka, Audio-Technica U.S. President/CEO stated, “Hideo Matsushita was a wonderful person and a true visionary, laying the foundation for Audio-Technica to grow over the past 50 years. He exemplified true leadership, with commitment to and passion for music, and an unmatched work ethic. His loss is felt not only by everyone in the A-T family, but also by the entire music industry.”

Samsung Electronics Co. (Soul, Korea) has agreed to buy a 3% stake in Sharp Corp. (Osaka, Japan), making Samsung the biggest individual shareholder that isn’t a financial institution and the fifth-largest stakeholder overall. The ¥10.4 billion ($111 million) investment comes as Sharp, a supplier to Apple Inc. (Cupertino CA), scrambles to raise funds and secure customers for its liquid-crystal displays in an effort to prove to its bank lenders that its business prospects remain solid. The investment fortifies the partnership between Samsung and Sharp, and also lays a foundation for Samsung to secure a steady supply of LCD panels. Samsung was once Sharp’s most feared rival in LCD panels and television sets. Sharp needs capital injections to secure its balance sheet after a planned ¥66.9 billion investment from Taiwan’s Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. (trading as Foxconn, New Taipei City, Taiwan) fell through last year. Samsung will have no involvement in Sharp's management.

LG Display (Lincolnshire IL) is investing KRW 706 billion (about US$650 million) in a new 8th generation OLED TV panel manufacturing line, to be installed at its P9 plant in Paju, South Korea. The company plans to begin investment in the line, which will focus on WRGB OLED evaporation process, in the first quarter of 2013, with mass production scheduled for the first half of 2014 at a monthly capacity of 26,000 input sheets.

ClearOne’s (Salt Lake City UT) Board of Directors has approved an increase in the company’s stock repurchase program from $3 million to $10 million of its outstanding shares of common stock. Under the initial program implemented May 16, 2012, ClearOne was authorized to repurchase up to $2 million of its outstanding shares of common stock over a 12-month period.

Peerless-AV (Aurora IL) has acquired Ciil Technologies, LLC, a manufacturer of environmental/weatherproof outdoor TVs and displays marketed under the UltraView and Xtreme brands. According to the company, the acquisition expands Peerless-AV’s portfolio of audiovisual technology, mounting, accessory and digital content delivery solutions with a high-demand product category providing new commercial and residential business opportunities for AV dealers, distributors, integrators and installation professionals.
The company stated that Ciil’s 26-inch to 55-inch products are the only outdoor displays that are completely sealed and use no external vents, exhaust fans or filters. The design holds the highest protection rating in the industry at IP 68 and NEMA 6, allowing the products to be submerged in water for 30 minutes without failure. Applications range from professional and college stadiums, public transit, marinas, cruise ships, yachts and factory floors to residential backyards and poolside patios. The Ciil line joins Peerless-AV’s portfolio of outdoor solutions, including mounts and enclosures, enabling the AV community to purchase multiple components for outdoor installations from a single source.

Unified Video Technologies’ Broadcast subsidiary (UNIV, Miami FL), specialists in developing, integrating and operating complete high-performance media and broadcast ecosystems for broadcasters and enterprises, has acquired KIT Digital’s Broadcast System Integration Unit for the Americas (New York NY). KIT Digital divested the Unit as part of its restructuring process.

MUSIC Group, the corporate parent of pro audio brand BEHRINGER has appointed Chesterton IN-based Starin Marketing as its exclusive Fulfiller for all 50 US states and protectorates. Starin had previously represented BEHRINGER in selected territories, with the rest of the country served by Shoreview Distribution. David O’Kelly, Vice President of Global Sales for MUSIC Group, stated, “Starin has proven to be an exceptional partner, delivering service levels that are earning praise from our dealers across America. I want to thank Shoreview for their loyal support but it became clear to us that a single source for BEHRINGER products was in the best interest of our dealers and in turn our end users.”

Confiance IP Solutions, Inc., is operating as Onepath Systems (Atlanta GA), effective January 1. Last February, Onepath Systems, LLC, acquired the company, which has provided consulting services that help its customers incorporate advanced technologies into their core business for the past five years. Their work has been recognized as the 2010 Cisco US and Canada South Region Services Partner of the Year, the 2010 Cisco Carolinas Select Enterprise Partner of the Year and the 2011 Triad Business Journal’s Fast 50 Award as one of the fastest growing companies in the region. The merger with Onepath has allowed it to reach a broader audience to offer quality products and services, including its network and system infrastructure monitoring service, Guardian Support Services.

ClearOne (Salt Lake City UT) previously reported in its periodic filings that it expected resolution by the end of 2012 of two pending arbitration matters concerning auction rate securities sold to ClearOne by Morgan Stanley & Co., Inc., and UBS Financial Services, Inc. ClearOne has determined the outcome of both matters, involving substantially identical claims against two different parties, effective January 14, 2013.
Regarding the Morgan Stanley arbitration, the arbitration panel denied ClearOne’s claims in their entirety.

Renkus-Heinz (Foothill Ranch CA) has appointed Scott Leslie to the position of President. Formerly Vice President of Engineering with JBL Professional, Leslie’s background includes stints at technology companies, including Sun Microsystems, Tektronix and Altec Lansing. Leslie is founder of Evidant Corporation, providers of Business Intelligence for IT solutions, where he has held executive-level positions since 2002.

Casio America , Inc., (Dover NJ) and its parent company, Casio Computer Co., Ltd., plan “to revolutionize storefront advertising by launching a new digital signage business” at the end of this month. Driving this business is Casio Signage, a newly developed tool for helping retailers gain an edge over the competition by attracting new and repeat customers. According to Casio, “Storefront advertising needs to catch the attention of customers and be interesting and relevant enough to entice them to enter. The Casio Signage business takes a revolutionary new approach, leveraging optimum advertising tools and cloud services to attract new customers and increase repeat business.”

Peerless-AV (Aurora IL), supplier of audiovisual mounting solutions and accessories, has launched the Peerless-AV Technology Division, dedicated to digital content delivery solutions for the commercial and residential markets. The division will expand the company’s existing technology portfolio, including wireless connectivity, wireless broadcast, kiosk, digital audio and touch products, to provide a comprehensive catalog of digital content delivery tools for AV dealers, distributors, integrators and installation professionals.

Effective January 1, 2013, Shure Inc. (Niles IL) began distributing conferencing products manufactured by Danish Interpretation Systems (DIS), a division of Informationsteknik Scandinavia Group of Copenhagen, Denmark, which Shure acquired in February 2011. “When we acquired Informationsteknik two years ago, we saw it as an opportunity to significantly strengthen our position in the installed sound market, specifically conferencing, by increasing our presence with customers in the corporate, government and education sectors,” said Mark Humrichouser, General Manager of the Americas Business Unit at Shure.

Toronto, ON, Canada Mood Media Corp. (Concord, ON, Canada), designer of in-store consumer experiences, including audio, visual, interactive, scent, voice and advertising solutions, has acquired the assets of Technomedia Solutions and sister company, GoConvergence, both of Orlando FL, for about $23 million in cash plus contingent consideration payable in 2014, which is based on the profitable growth of the operations.

Industrial Video LLC, headquartered in Cleveland OH, with additional offices in Columbus and Cincinnati, has changed its name to iVideo Technologies LLC. According to the company, now in its 45th year, its new name is also a reflection of the company’s past as iVideo Technologies will continue to serve clients through its.

Barco (Kortrijk, Belgium) has acquired 61% of projectiondesign’s (Fredrikstad, Norway) shares from private equity fund Herkules Capital (Oslo, Norway). The remaining shares of projectiondesign are held by minority shareholders. The transaction advances Barco’s strategy to expand into the mid-segment of its target markets and to strengthen its position in high-performance projection technology.

Harman (Stamford CT) has reached an agreement to acquire Martin Professional A/S (Aarhus, Denmark), a provider of lighting solutions for the entertainment, architectural and commercial sectors founded in 1987, for EUR 110 million. Subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions, the deal is expected to close early in 2013. According to the companies, this transaction will create a One-Stop-Shop for the professional entertainment market. Adding Martin to Harman’s $4.4 billion organization and combining two of the largest R&D budgets in the audio and entertainment lighting industry will enable the companies to grow and improve the lighting and video product offering to the benefit of all existing and new customers.

Electrosonic (Los Angeles CA) has acquired Global Immersion (West Sussex UK), a designer and integrator of high performance digital immersive theater attractions. Global Immersion will continue to serve the planetarium, institutional theater and giant screen markets, and this positions Electrosonic as the only company to offer digital immersive solutions across the theme park, museum, giant screen cinema and planetarium markets, the companies report. The acquisition was completed on December 10, 2012.
"As a single operation, we will service an even broader range of markets, bringing further innovation and an expanded offering to our customers," stated Jim Bowie, President of Electrosonic Group. "Our goal to attract and develop the best industry talent has been one of the drivers of the acquisition. Together, we will lead by consolidating our strengths and delivering the best visual systems in the world."

eyevis, a German supplier of large screens and videowalls for control rooms and monitoring centers, has a new owner: Frankfurt-based private equity fund Brockhaus Private Equity. (eyevis is available in the US from Aydin Visual Solutions (Tucker GA), which is a subsidiary of Video Display Corporation (Tucker GA).) The company said that the change in the ownership structure provides eyevis with a secure succession arrangement as well as first rate prospects for further international growth. Financing is being provided by Brockhaus Private Equity II, a fund specially focused on medium-sized growth companies. All current eyevis shareholders will remain closely associated with the company. In particular, Heiko Schaich, one of the two incumbent managing directors and the company's "technological mastermind," will continue in his dual role as a shareholder and as a managing director.

Presentation Products, Inc., has acquired Presentation Media, an audiovisual integration firm based in Fairfield NJ. The integrated team of certified designers, engineers, programmers and technicians will combine strengths and resources to set a new standard for the world of audiovisual design/build firms, the companies said.

Meyer Sound Laboratories Inc. (Berkeley CA) has settled the lawsuit it filed last June. The lawsuit was filed in the Federal District Court for the Northern District of California against VUE Audiotechnik, LLC (Escondido CA). In its suit, Meyer Sound alleged VUE infringed Meyer Sound’s iconic wave trademark, and asserted other claims against VUE and a former Meyer Sound employee currently working for VUE.

The Wireless Speaker and Audio Association (WiSA Association, Sunnyvale CA), founded in 2011, has created a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and associated Special Interest Groups (SIGs) to advance the development of wireless audio solutions for home theater, consumer electronics and professional AV markets. Participation in both groups is open to members of the association and the activities pursued by each group may influence the WiSA Compliance Test Specification (CTS) as well as the technology roadmap.

The Board of Directors of InfoComm International (Fairfax VA) has named David Labuskes, CTS, RCDD, the association’s next Executive Director/CEO, effective January 1, 2013, succeeding Executive Director/CEO Randal A. Lemke, PhD, who is retiring at the end of 2012. Vice President of RTKL (Baltimore MD) for more than 13 years, he founded the company’s Technology Design Practice, overseeing the delivery of audiovisual, voice, data, wireless, environmental media, electronic security and acoustics services. “David Labuskes is a leading expert on the intersection of technology and the built environment,” said Greg Jeffreys, InfoComm International President. “He is the executive who can help chart the course for InfoComm and our industry when it comes to the future of networked AV, smart building technology and more.”
Responsible for RTKL’s operations, finances and marketing of technical services globally, Labuskes has led projects in the corporate, government, commercial and healthcare spaces. Previously, Labuskes was President/CEO of Premier Technology services, a software and systems design consulting firm and Executive Vice President of Accelerated Payment Systems, an electronic payments processing firm.

The Open Control Architecture (OCA) Alliance (San Francisco CA), the industry collective developing a media networking system control standard for professional applications, has incorporated as a non-profit trade association. The incorporation represents the latest milestone for the Alliance, which was founded in June 2011 to develop a standardized control and monitoring architecture for professional media networks. The Alliance released initial technical documents to its Observer members in October 2011, and the complete OCA 1.0 Specification to the Observers in May 2012. The Specification now stands at Release 1.1. Coincident with its incorporation, the Alliance has placed the entire Release 1.1 Specification on its public website for free download.
In the coming months, the Alliance will transfer the Specification to a public standards organization for ratification as an official open public standard, free for all to use at no cost. Subsequently, the Alliance will actively support the standards-making process, and will simultaneously promote and support the adoption of OCA as a tool for the professional media systems industry.
“Incorporation represents another major step forward in the creation of a robust, feature-rich media networking control solution,” said Terry Holton, Senior Manager-Product Planning at Yamaha Corporation’s R&D Centre. “We are making significant progress, with excellent participation from all our founding member companies.”

Industry veteran Michael MacDonald has joined audio production company and sound reinforcement provider ATK Audiotek (Valencia CA) as President, coincident with the retirement of outgoing President Michael Stahl. MacDonald’s responsibilities will involve leadership of the company’s business development, sales and marketing programs. MacDonald has more than 30 years of experience in the professional audio industry, most recently as Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Harman Professional for five years. He previously operated a consulting business at Pilot Business Strategies, working with more than 30 professional audio clients and trade organizations on product and program development, business planning and marketing and sales. MacDonald has held senior roles at other professional audio manufacturers, including president of JBL Professional and 10 years in executive positions with Yamaha International.

Global Caché (Jacksonville OR), which provides IP and WiFi-enabling products for homes and businesses, has has appointed David Snipp as Chief Technology Officer. Snipp founded and acted as CEO for Stardraw.com (Surrey, England), developer of software applications, including Stardraw Design 7 and Stardraw Control. The company also acquired intellectual property from Stardraw.com consisting of Stardraw Control's technology.
Snipp, who also worked as Development Manager at Microsoft, and senior software engineer and architect of major components of Windows NT, said, “I’m especially experienced in managing development teams and pushing forward exciting new products. I’ve enjoyed working with Global Caché as a corporate partner over the last several years. I’ve always admired and appreciated their innovation, proven product reliability, and significant global client base."

NSCA responded to yesterday's News Update (reported below), with this statement: "NSCA would like to set the record straight. While the NSCA and InfoComm contract under its current arrangement has expired, NSCA is committed to continuing its support of the InfoComm show moving forward. NSCA will be present on both the show floor and in hosting the NSCA Education Foundation Industry Charity Concert featuring the Drunk Unkles in 2013."
However, InfoComm disputed NSCA's statement with this response from Randal A. Lemke, PhD, Executive Director/CEO: "In light of a recent article in Sound & Communications, and a subsequent statement by the National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA), InfoComm International is compelled to set the record straight regarding NSCA's participation in future InfoComm Shows.

The partnership between NSCA and InfoComm International has officially ended, with the five-year contract the organizations signed back in 2007 expiring this year. NSCA communicated with InfoComm that it did not want to extend the contract, confirming its non-renewal in June 2011, which InfoComm accepted following this year’s show in June.
“We said, when we got the letter, that we would continue to talk and see if we could make it work, and we weren’t able to make it work; but I would still call it a friendly split,” said Randy A. Lemke, Executive Director/CEO of InfoComm.
According to InfoComm, NSCA will not take part in next year’s show, per its request, leaving its 200-square-foot booth area up for grabs, and also freeing up time and space for classes and other educational opportunities.
Although the exact terms of the contract are confidential, we will not be seeing NSCA in all the old familiar places as a result of the split. However, the organization is committed to becoming more visible and relevant to its integrator members, per members’ requests, according to Chuck Wilson, NSCA Executive Director.
Lemke added: “We paid a fair sum for [NSCA’s] exhibition and we need to protect our investment by requiring the non-compete just like any other business does.” Wilson explained that, contractually or not, NSCA does not intend to sponsor, endorse or organize trade shows in the future. They intend to go out to where their members are and discuss issues such as prevailing wage, regulations and licensure, and work on issues that make it difficult to be profitable as a systems integrator.
“It just didn’t seem to make sense for us to have that big of a presence at the show and to do that many courses,” Wilson said. “So we’re going to submit a new proposal [to InfoComm] and see where that takes us.”

Nortek, Inc. (Providence RI), a global diversified company offering technology-driven products and solutions for residential and commercial applications, has formed Core Brands, combining the product and marketing strengths of 10 of the company’s formerly independent audio, power management and control brands operating within its Technology Solutions segment. Including Nortek’s Aton, BlueBOLT, Elan, Furman, Niles, Panamax, Proficient, SpeakerCraft, Sunfire and Xantech brands, Core Brands has more than 190 years of combined experience in the residential, commercial and professional markets and more than 4300 direct customer accounts in multiple distribution channels in the US and worldwide.
Core Brands will be based in Petaluma CA, with offices in Carlsbad and Riverside CA, and Marblehead MA. Bill Pollock, who has served as Panamax President, will lead Core Brands. Dave Keller, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Panamax/Furman, will handle worldwide sales. Keith Marshall, President of SpeakerCraft/Proficient, will be in charge of channel management, and Paul Starkey, President of Elan, will lead marketing for all brands.

Verrex (Mountainside NJ), the 65-year-old design-build integrator and managed services provider of conferencing, collaboration and presentation technologies, is restructuring, moving to a more visible global alliance model, the company reported. This network of AV systems integrators and service providers has been in place for the past several years led by Verrex and includes more than 200 firms worldwide serving 300-plus metropolitan areas across 37 countries. An official announcement about this network will be made in early September. In preparation, Verrex will restructure its own UK and Asia Pacific presence by year’s end. US regions have been realigned to support the restructured organization.

Leviton (Melville NY) has acquired Home Automation, Inc. (HAI, New Orleans LA), which offers home automation controls for residential and light commercial applications. According to the company, HAI enhances Leviton’s current home automation offerings by providing solutions that combine security, energy management and entertainment controls, in user-friendly applications. Integrating HAI products with Leviton’s solutions provides with a smart choice for automation and remote access capabilities, the company offered. HAI has a wide-ranging product offering, from systems that allow control of automated video surveillance systems and audio devices over the internet to programmable thermostats and light switches accessible directly from a smartphone.

Renkus-Heinz (Foothill Ranch CA) and Ahnert Feistel Media Group (AFMG Technologies GmbH, Berlin, Germany) are restructuring their long-standing strategic relationship, with AFMG stepping into a more prominent role. AFMG will provide direct sales, technical support and training worldwide for its acoustical measurement and simulation software products, including EASE, EASERA and SysTune, with Renkus-Heinz continuing to offer support to customers during the transition beginning on October 1, 2012. Both companies will keep working together on educational seminars, marketing of technology solutions, as well as software development and other projects, they report.
AFMG's Berlin offices, which already provide support for Europe including Russia, the Middle East, Africa and India, will take this role on globally. Covering the Americas will be Bruce Olson and Charlie Hughes from AFMG’s US branch, with AFMG representatives and distribution partners providing local assistance, as well.

SYNNEX Corp. (Greenville, SC), a distributor of IT products and services, now offers a complete professional audio portfolio through its VISUALSolv group with the signing of a strategic distribution agreement with TC Group Americas Inc. (Kitchener, Ontario, Canada). SYNNEX now can create audio solutions for commercial AV integrators with the full line of Tannoy professional audio products and Lab Gruppen amplifiers, the company reports.

According to a posting on Chuck Wilson’s NSCA LinkedIn Discussion by Dave Jeskey, National Accounts Manager at Sentinel Connector Systems, we have learned that, in 2011, the Fiberoptic Industry Association (Buntingford, Hertfordshire, UK) issued FIA-IAN-002 Infrastructure Advisory Note, which summarized concerns about Cat5/5e cables using Copper Clad Aluminum (CCA) conductors. The Communications Cable and Connectivity Association (CCCA, Washington DC) continues to encounter several sources in the US promoting Cat5e and Cat 6 cables made with copper clad aluminum (CCA) conductors. CCA is not permitted for Category UTP cables and is not compliant to Telecommunications Industries Association (TI) standards and National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements for fire safety.

Rival Japanese television makers Sony Corp. and Panasonic Corp. have stated that they will cooperate to make OLED (organic light emitting diode) sets as they battle Korean rivals Samsung Electronics and LG Electronics in the next-generation TV market. The race to garner a lead in OLED, widely touted as the successor to liquid-crystal displays, will depend on which company is able to mass produce screens at a price that will attract consumers to the new technology. According to Sony and Panasonic, they will develop technologies to fabricate the screens and aim to establish a mass-production process in 2013.

InfoComm International's latest standard, 4 :2012 Audiovisual Systems Energy Management, has been approved by the InfoComm Board of Directors and submitted to ANSI for approval. This standard defines and prescribes processes and requirements for ongoing power-consumption management of the audiovisual (AV) system.

AVTEQ, Inc. (Dallas TX), manufacturer of videoconferencing and telemedicine carts, has acquired KLN Steel Products Co. (San Antonio TX) and its two sister companies, Dehler Manufacturing Inc. (San Antonio TX) and Furniture by Thurston Inc. (Grass Valley CA). “We’re excited about the acquisition,” said John O’Donnell, AVTEQ Vice President. “We’re in similar business, so it makes sense for our growth.” With this acquisition, AVTEQ will significantly expand its US manufacturing capacity and increase revenue to a projected $60 million.

MUSIC Group (Singapore) has acquired Turbosound (West Sussex, England), a 30-year-old professional loudspeaker manufacturer that has earned the Queen’s Award three times, including for Innovation in 2012. At the same time, MUSIC Group announced the formation of a global Professional Division, with Philip Hart as Vice President, bringing together the Midas, Klark Teknik and Turbosound brands.
According to MUSIC Group Founder/CEO Uli Behringer, the addition of Turbosound allows MUSIC Group to round out its professional and touring sound offerings alongside Midas and Klark Teknik. “Since the acquisition of Midas and Klark Teknik, we have been pursuing a loudspeaker brand that complements the consoles and processing offered by these historic brands. Throughout our search, Turbosound has stood out as the ideal match because of its extensive IP, sterling reputation and a first-class team of people. I am very proud to welcome Simon Blackwood and his team to our family.”

Jenne Inc. (Avon OH), a value-added distributor of IP telephony, audio and videoconferencing, unified communications, data networking and IT security products, has signed a distribution agreement with ViewZ (Anaheim CA), a manufacturer of professional-grade monitors for video surveillance and digital signage applications. With the addition of ViewZ to its linecard, Jenne now offers resellers competing in the security market a turnkey surveillance solution because it already carries the Panasonic's line of i-Pro cameras and security products. The addition of ViewZ also increases Jenne's presence in the commercial integration market, where digital signage applications are expected to grow exponentially over the coming decade.

Miranda Technologies Inc. (Montréal, Canada) has entered into an agreement with Belden Inc. (Richmond IN) to offer to purchase all outstanding common shares of Miranda by way of a take-over bid at a price of C$17.00 per share in cash. The Offer represents the culmination of the strategic review process initiated by the corporation’s Board of Directors in March 2012. A special committee of the Board of Directors, which led the review process, considered how best to ensure that any transaction would both recognize Miranda’s value and its success to date, as well as its future prospects, and position Miranda’s business effectively for continued growth.

Digital Projection International (DPI, Atlanta GA) has selected IAVI (International Audio Visual, Fort Lauderdale FL) as the commercial AV distributor for DPI's line of displays in North America. Working side by side with DPI’s own established dealer network, IAVI will now offer DPI’s displays directly to its extensive dealer network, effective immediately. 
IAVI is a wholesale supplier of professional AV technology products to value-added resellers worldwide. Founded in 1997, IAVI has offices staffed with CTS- and DSE-certified AV professionals across the US. IAVI’s customer base consists of independent dealers, systems integrators and custom installers. According to the companies, “Through this partnership, IAVI gains a stable, well respected and diverse projector line, and DPI gains a robust sales and marketing partner.”

BroadSign International, Inc. (BSI; Montreal, Canada), has been acquired by JedFam Group, LLC (JedFam), almost three months after it filed for protection under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The Bankruptcy Court recently approved a sale of BSI's assets to JedFam, and BSI will emerge from bankruptcy as BroadSign International, LLC. Brian Dusho will remain as Chief Executive Officer of the digital signage software provider.

The AVC Group (Carlsbad CA), Panamax/Furman(Petaluma CA) and SpeakerCraft (Riverside CA) announced a significant strategic move to address the rapidly changing needs of technology consumers and dealers alike. The resources of The AVC Group, Panamax/Furman and SpeakerCraft, Proficient brands will align under one centralized division with a focus on customer-centric product development, brand innovation and dealer support.
Mark Terry, President of The AVC Group, will leave the company, they report. “Mark and his team have done an outstanding job combining The AVC Group brands together and creating a world-class infrastructure to service our customers and dealers,” stated Sean Burke, Group President of Nortek’s Technology Products Segment. Also, Jeremy Burkhardt is leaving SpeakerCraft.

Industry veteran Danny Abelson has announced formation of Zeehi LLC (Boulder CO), an entertainment technology company dedicated to developing solutions to improve the workflow of global entertainment production professionals. Zeehi’s management team consists of industry engineering and marketing veterans with a combined 75 years of experience in professional product design, portable system design, stage lighting, audio engineering, production management and fixed installations in some of the largest entertainment facilities in the world.
Abelson, formerly the US partner and distributor for Turbosound, noted, “The Zeehi team includes some of the top professionals in the industry: designers, builders and/or high-profile users of professional entertainment products.

LOUD Technologies Inc. (Woodinville WA) has appointed Lincoln International to conduct a strategic review of its UK-based division, Martin Audio, with a view to finding private equity backing to support Martin Audio into the next phase of its development plan. In sourcing the right investment partner, and forging a more independent path, it will further assist in the realization of the growth strategy and objectives of the business.

Polycom, Inc. (Pleasanton CA), has announced a definitive agreement to divest its enterprise wireless voice solutions business to an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, Inc., for gross proceeds of about $110 million in cash, subject to certain adjustments set forth in the agreement. The sale is expected to close within the third quarter of 2012, following the satisfaction of regulatory requirements and other customary closing conditions. Polycom’s Board of Directors has approved an increase in its current share repurchase authorization to include net proceeds of about $104 million from this transaction, contingent upon the sale of the enterprise wireless voice solutions business and receipt of the net proceeds from the sale.

A group of AV and IT industry veterans led by David Robbins (former integrator and Klipsch regional sales manager) and Douglas Bowman (more than 15 years in IT network deployment and management for Fortune 500 companies), have launched FiROBO Corp. (McKinney TX) to provide to residential and commercial AV integrators enterprise-level managed network solutions that are easy to install, maintain, expand and support. The result, they report, is increased productivity, increased profitability and peace of mind for all stakeholders in the value chain.

Harris (Englewood CO) announced its decision to divest the Broadcast Communications business on May 1, according to Harris Morris, President, Broadcast Communications Division, Harris Corporation: He stated, “I fully support this decision and believe that the timing is right for both Harris and Broadcast Communications.
“Harris has supported us by investing in our business, allowing us to develop some of the market’s most innovative, solution-based technologies. However, over time, Broadcast Communications has become less aligned with the Harris core businesses and long-term strategy.
“Operating independently or as part of a broadcast or media-focused enterprise will provide us with strategic investment, increased competitive flexibility and customer focus to lead the continuing transformation in this competitive marketplace.
“The decision to divest in no way reflects the quality of the work Broadcast Communications performed in support of our customers and our company. Harris simply determined that Broadcast Communications could provide higher value and operate more effectively under a different ownership model.

InfoComm International (Fairfax VA) has opened the public review and comment period for the proposed draft standard, INFOCOMM 4: 2012 DS1, Audiovisual Systems Energy Management, which addresses power consumption management of AV systems. Although there is no requirement for a specific percentage of energy reduction, the Standard requires preparation of an energy management plan that will assist users in formulating their energy reduction goals by requiring baseline measurements; automation; ongoing monitoring, measurement and analysis; and education/training for owners and users of the AV systems. The Standard addresses power consumption requirements of the AV system as a whole, while allowing the user of the Standard flexibility in system design, as well as selection of individual components.

Westinghouse Digital, LLC (Orange CA), has become a licensee under VIZIO’s (Irvine CA) QAM patent portfolio by virtue of a cross-license between the two. VIZIO, an American LCD HDTV company, owns a substantial worldwide patent portfolio directed to digital television technology. The parties have not disclosed financial terms of the agreement under which Westinghouse has agreed to make royalty payments to VIZIO for sales of licensed products.

A major change is afoot in the LCD manufacturing sector, with the announcement of a joint venture between Sharp Corp. and Hon Hai of Taiwan, which will purchase half of Sharp’s share of Green Front Sakai, the world’s largest (Gen 10) TFT-LCD factory, for the Yen equivalent of more than 600 million Euros. Hon Hai, which has capital ties with FoxConn (a key supplier of Apple), will be guaranteeing at least 50% capacity production at Sakai.
As part of the deal, Sharp will issue 50,000,000, 32,477,000, 31,143,000 and 8,029,000 new shares each to Hon Hai, FoxConn Technology Co., Ltd, FoxConn FE and Q-Run Holdings (the “Allottee”), which is 4.50%, 2.92%, 2.80% and 0.72% of 1,110,699,887 shares, the total of issued common stock of Sharp as of February 29, 2012.
According to Sharp’s Executive Managing Officer, Takashi Okuda, “The market surrounding the electronics industry is becoming severe, with rapid price declines due to the development of digital technology and increasing competition in a global market. We believe the timely action is necessary to tackle these changes in the market...
“This partnership allows each company to establish a new business model, combining each company’s strength, to launch cost-competitive components and products fit to market demand by utilizing Sharp’s potential for the development of one-of-a-kind components and products with Hon Hai group’s mounting technology and cost competitiveness.

Summit Partners (Palo Alto CA) has completed a minority investment in Wowza Media Systems, LLC (Evergreen CO), the “Any Screen Done Right” media server software company. According to the companies, this investment positions Wowza for continued strong global growth and opens up opportunities to expand the company’s product offering.
Wowza CEO/Cofounder David Stubenvoll and CTO/Cofounder Charlie Good remain majority owners and lead the Wowza Board of Directors. Greg Goldfarb, a Summit Partners Managing Director, has joined the board. The transaction was completed March 1, 2012; financial terms were not disclosed.

VUE Audiotechnik (San Diego CA) has been created by Ken Berger and Jim Sides as a professional audio company “set to redefine high-output, low-distortion loudspeaker performance through road-tested design expertise, advanced technologies and global manufacturing—all backed by an unwavering focus on service and long-term partnerships.”
According to Ken Berger, CEO, “Today’s system designers are pushing the boundaries of performance at an exponential rate. At the same time, many loudspeaker companies are struggling to keep pace as they adapt to modern manufacturing or navigate the murky waters of buyouts and acquisitions.” He added, “We’re launching VUE Audiotechnik to meet the growing demands of today’s market with innovative design, advanced technology and responsive global manufacturing. But even more, VUE is about a return to long-term relationships and exceptional service. These are the values that launched our industry decades ago, and now is the time for a return to those principles.”

Avaya Inc. (Basking Ridge NJ) has signed an agreement to acquire Radvision Ltd. (Fair Lawn NJ), a provider of videoconferencing and telepresence technologies over IP and wireless networks. Through this acquisition, Avaya will provide customers a highly integrated and interoperable suite of cost-effective, easy to use, high-definition video collaboration products, with the ability to plug and play multiple mobile devices including Apple iPad and Google Android.

Onepath Systems LLC Atlanta GA) has acquired Greensboro NC-based Confiance IP Solutions, Inc. Confiance, a Silver-Certified Cisco Partner, Cisco Master Managed Services Partner and an EMC Velocity Affiliate Elite Partner, has provided consulting services that help their customers incorporate advanced technologies into their core business for five years. Confiance was recognized as the 2010 Cisco US and Canada South Region Services Partner of the Year, the 2010 Cisco Carolinas Select Enterprise Partner of the Year and a winner of the 2011 Triad Business Journal’s Fast 50 Award as one of the fastest growing companies in the area.
“The Confiance team is excited about becoming part of the Onepath family and expanding our geographic presence in the Southeast, as well as adding Onepath’s intelligent building technology solutions and services capabilities,” stated Mike Cotrone, CEO of Confiance. “Onepath shares our strong customer-focused philosophy and we believe that the combined organization will only enhance that focus as we provide our customers with a broader range of solutions and services.”

InfoComm International (Fairfax VA) has announced that it is simplifying its membership structure and expanding the amount of free and discounted education offered to members, effective early 2013.
“In 2011, the Membership Committee dedicated themselves to resolving long-time challenges voiced by InfoComm’s members, including reducing the number of membership options and addressing the administrative constraints revolving around InfoComm’s EduBucks program,” said Duffy Wilbert, CTS, CAE, Senior Vice President, Member Services. “The result is a streamlined membership structure, more free online education, and a standard discount for other training and publications.”

Elma (Fremont CA), an international provider of embedded computer and technology solutions, has expanded its Optima EPS operations with the acquisition of Stantron broadcast cabinets and APW Mayville datacenter cabinets (Mayville WI).
“These newest assets demonstrate Elma’s commitment to providing rock-solid infrastructure to broadcast, communications, military, datacenters and many other industries,” said Fred Ruegg, President of Elma Americas. “Adding Stantron and APW Mayville’s specialized products to the extensive offering of cabinets and enclosures, Optima EPS extends and expands our ability to safely and securely house high-availability datacenter assets and other specialty equipment regardless of the environment.”

Digital signage software company BroadSign International Inc. (Boise ID), has filed for bankruptcy and intends to auction almost all of its assets. The company listed debt of $10 million to $50 million and assets of $1 million to $10 million in Chapter 11 documents filed in US Bankruptcy Court, re. BroadSign International Inc., 12-10789, U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Delaware (Wilmington). Two affiliates also sought court protection. BroadSign and its affiliates owe their 20 largest unsecured creditors about $2.3 million, according to court papers; Olton Management the largest, with a $1.3 million claim.

SpinetiX (Lausanne, Switzerland) a Swiss digital signage manufacturer, is now distributing its hyper media player technology in the US through Convergent Media Systems, a Sony Company (Alpharetta GA). SpinetiX appointed Convergent Media Systems as Certified Distribution Partner for the US for all of its products.

Atlas Sound (Phoenix AZ) has acquired A-Line Acoustics, a company specializing in the design and manufacture of powered and non-powered professional speaker systems using a variety of technologies, with an emphasis on line array speaker systems. A-Line will be incorporated into the Atlas Sound family of products under the Atlas A-Line Acoustics product category.
A-Line Acoustics was founded in 2001 by Tony Faranda, an audio professional with more than three decades of experience in the pro audio industry. The company has developed products for a variety of venues including arenas, amphitheaters, parks, nightclubs and houses of worship, and holds multiple patents including the EZAL rigging system, which allows the angle adjustment of individual line array speaker cabinets while the speakers are flown or ground stacked under load.

Samsung Electronics (Ridgefield Park NJ,) has moved a step closer to spinning off its liquid crystal display (LCD) unit after its board of directors approved the plan. According to BBC News, the firm said it will launch the spun-off unit, Samsung Display Company Ltd., as a new corporation on April 1. The move, which still requires shareholder approval, comes amid slowing demand and falling profits for LCD products.
The report states that Samsung said it is planning to focus on new technologies to maintain its edge over the competition. “The spin-off will allow us to make quicker business decisions and respond to our clients’ needs more swiftly,” according to Donggun Park, Executive Vice President and head of Samsung's LCD business. “Through enhancements in business competitiveness, we will continue to provide superior products and services for the market.”

On a day that happens only once every four years, we expect something different to happen. However, finding this in our inbox this morning was not quite what we expected. Here is the official statement from Extron President Andrew Edwards:
“After serious reflection and review, I have decided to make a significant change to our tradeshow schedule. Effective this year, Extron will no longer exhibit at the InfoComm USA and ISE Integrated Systems Europe tradeshows.
“As I said, this change is significant, so let me give you some background. Extron has exhibited at every InfoComm USA show since 1986 and at ISE Integrated Systems Europe. We were instrumental in the creation and organization of the InfoComm Shootout and Extron has had the largest booth at InfoComm USA for the last four years. We have enjoyed and appreciated what InfoComm USA and ISE have become. However, at Extron we have concluded that the time and energy put into exhibiting at these short three-day events, can better serve you by being repurposed toward activities that provide direct benefit and support for you, our customers. Specifically, we are focused on the creation of additional Extron support and training facilities both domestically and internationally.
“We have a great deal of respect for the InfoComm organization and its role in our industry. Extron provides training staff for InfoComm CTS-D and CTS-I courses, and our Extron Institute courses are approved for InfoComm certification renewal credit. This decision affects the InfoComm USA and ISE tradeshows only. Extron will continue to support the InfoComm organization in all other ways.
“Let me assure you that Extron is in a strong financial position. 2011 was a record year for Extron. We introduced over 75 new products including our new XTP Crosspoint Systems line of digital matrix switchers, and the SME 100 H.264 Streaming Media Encoder, which, I’m pleased to announce, is now shipping. To make you, our customers, more aware of these new products, requires training. Extron is built on the philosophy of training and education, and each year thousands of you attend Extron Institute, worldwide. Much of the effort that previously went into preparing for and exhibiting at InfoComm USA and ISE will now go toward making Extron training and support even more accessible.

Mersive (Denver CO), a provider of visual computing software that creates and manages high performance displays, has received a multi-million dollar investment from Razor’s Edge Ventures (Herndon VA). The investment will help to fund the expansion of Mersive’s sales and marketing efforts to deliver a new class of displays to government and commercial markets. In conjunction with the investment, Razor’s Edge Managing Directors, Mark Spoto and Rob Painter, have joined the Mersive board of directors.
According to the company, Mersive’s Sol visual computing software provides auto alignment and display correction capabilities that leverage low cost display hardware to create ultra-high resolution, large scale, professional quality displays. The resulting reduction in cost, maintenance time and specialized room requirements delivers the performance of professional displays to the ‘general purpose’ display market.

Savant Systems LLC (Hyannis MA) has acquired LiteTouch, Inc. (Salt Lake City UT), an industry pioneer in the residential and commercial lighting control marketplace since the late 1970s. The acquisition provides Savant with a widely recognized lighting control platform as well as a broad range of keypad offerings to complement the company’s iOS user interface solutions for residential and commercial control applications.
The LiteTouch keypads will fully support a wide array of controlled devices including third-party lighting systems as part of Savant’s ecosystem of advanced automation. “Our sales channel has been asking for a lineup of lighting control and integrated keypad products from Savant that operate in concert with Apple iOS devices to manage and control a vast array of connected home and commercial technologies,” explained Savant CEO Robert Madonna.

BTX Technologies (Hawthorne NY), a value-added distributor and manufacturer of interface, integration and system products, has been named the US distributor and technical support provider for Net Display Systems’ PADS digital signage software. Net Display Systems is a Microsoft Gold ISV Partner with signage solutions designed to handle applications with requirements ranging from thousands of displays down to just one. These products are available as software-only solutions or pre-installed on media players that are custom configured by BTX for content levels ranging from basic to media-intensive. 

Building on the success of its relationship with the Sony Visual Imaging Products Group, Stampede Presentation Products, Inc. (Amherst NY), has been named a United States distributor of the Sony EVI Series of pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) video cameras. According to Stampede President/COO Kevin Kelly, effective immediately, Stampede assumes responsibility for the sales and marketing of the Sony EVI-HD7V, EVI-HD3V, EVI-D70, EVI-D70/W, EVI-D100, and EVI-HD1 video cameras.
“These Sony EVI cameras provide added choices for the growing range of video conferencing, distance learning, house of worship, hospitals, nursing homes, event center, concert hall and remote justice applications where imaging superiority, reliability and installation flexibility are critically important,” Kelly emphasized. “The addition of these cameras to our product offering provides our dealers with a new product line to bring to their end-user customers. We are expanding the range of possible installation environments our dealers can pursue—and that is what Stampede is fundamentally all about: creating new market opportunities while strengthening core channel strengths.”

Effective April 1, 2012, Yamaha Electronics Corporation, USA (YCA, Buena Park CA), the US sales and marketing company for audiovisual products, will be merged into Yamaha’s US sales and marketing subsidiary, Yamaha Corporation of America (YEC) was originally established as a 100%-owned subsidiary of YCA in 1981.)

Blonder Tongue Laboratories, Inc. (Old Bridge NJ) has completed the acquisition of R.L. Drake, LLC (Franklin OH), including substantially all of the assets of R.L Drake for about $6.5 million, subject to certain adjustments based on a post-closing audit of the balance sheet of R.L. Drake and additional contingent purchase price payments of up to $1.5 million in the aggregate that may be made over the next three years if certain financial results are realized. R.L. Drake’s unaudited net sales for 2011 were approximately $10.0 million. Both companies supply CATV and satellite signal processing and distribution equipment.
“As respected leaders in the field of cable television communications, Blonder Tongue and Drake together offer customers more than 125 years of combined engineering and manufacturing excellence with solid histories of delivering reliable, quality products,” said James A. Luksch, Chairman/CEO. “Continuing with our strategic plan, by maximizing synergies among our highly respected engineering, manufacturing and marketing teams, customers will reap multiple benefits including additional new and innovative products delivered to market faster and more affordably.”

Middle Atlantic Products (Fairfield NJ, www.middleatlantic.com), in conjunction with Extron Electronics (Anaheim CA, www.extron.com/halfracksystem), is initiating and supporting the establishment of a new standard for half-width rack systems for AV integration.
Working in cooperation with the Electronic Components Industry Association (ECIA, Alpharetta GA, www.eciaonline.org), Extron and Middle Atlantic are seeking to establish and maintain a specific ECIA standard for what typically has been offered as a custom rack offering until now. To further strengthen the quality and application of the standard, the two companies are inviting manufacturers of compact-format devices to join a communication and working group for this effort.
Both manufacturers recently developed product families (the Extron Half Rack Shelf System and Middle Atlantic’s HR Series Half Racks) that fit within and incorporate the proposed 10-5/8ʺ overall width defined in the proposed new standard.

Black Box Corp. (Pittsburgh PA), a communications systems integrator dedicated to designing, sourcing, implementing and maintaining today’s complex communications solutions has acquired privately held InnerWireless, Inc. (Richardson TX), which enables mission- and life-critical in-building wireless in every industry from healthcare to Fortune 500 enterprises. The InnerWireless Horizon4GTM Distributed Antenna System (DAS) delivers wireless coverage and engineered capacity for maintaining mobile connectivity and optimizing wireless service levels. InnerWireless sells and services solutions throughout the continental US. InnerWireless is the first Black Box acquisition in the rapidly-growing in-building wireless market.

ClearOne (Salt Lake City UT) has acquired Israel-based VCON Video Conferencing, which offers high-performance, end-to-end, software video conferencing solutions. Under the terms of the asset purchase agreement, ClearOne will pay $4.5 million in cash. The acquisition is expected to close by the end of this quarter, subject to customary closing conditions, including applicable regulatory and court approvals.

Solotech (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) has acquired privately held Specs Audio (Gatineau, Québec), an audiovisual systems integrator with both sales and rental departments.
The addition of Specs Audio to Solotech’s expanding number of regional offices adds significant logistical resources to Solotech’s growing presence in the Ottawa/Gatineau and Eastern Ontario market, the company reported. Specs Audio is active in specific market segments and will continue to develop these markets to compliment Solotech’s sales and integration business.

Audio video communications provider AVI-SPL (Tampa FL) has acquired Iformata Communications LLC, a provider of video managed services. The acquisition includes the Iformata Video Network Operations Center (VNOC) business and the VNOC Symphony management platform. AVI-SPL views this acquisition as a critical move in the company’s continuing drive to become the dominant player in the video communications solutions and services space.
“In 2009, we set forth on an initiative to grow our video communications business. In 2011, we succeeded in growing video-related revenue to over $200 million and video is now included in over 50 percent of the projects we do," said AVI-SPL CEO John Zettel. “With that growth, we recognized the importance of expanding our capabilities in the video services we provide our customers. Acquiring Iformata shows our commitment to expanding our video communications strategy with a strong managed services offering.”
“This acquisition is a major win for both AVI-SPL and Iformata,” reported Ira M. Weinstein, senior analyst and partner at Wainhouse Research. “This combines AVI-SPL’s strong AV integration experience and 150+ strong, video-savvy, field sales force with Iformata’s robust, multi-tenant Symphony videoconferencing management system. The result is an immediately available, mature service offering from a well-known and trusted technology partner. Hosted video managed service offerings, like AVI-SPL’s Unify ME, play a key role in helping enterprise organizations maximize the benefits they receive from their collaboration investments.”

MOVEK,LLC (Edina MN) has received its first patent for its myMix personal monitoring and recording system. The patent is for the user interface for network audio mixers, which means that, even though each unit operates independently, every unit recognizes the information provided by the other units once they are connected on the network. 

Randal (Randy) A. Lemke, PhD, Executive Director and CEO of InfoComm International (Fairfax VA) since 2000, has announced his retirement at the end of 2012, capping off 16 years of service to the commercial audiovisual association. "It has been an honor to serve the needs of such an exciting and innovative industry these past years," Dr. Lemke stated, "and it's with mixed feelings that I leave the wonderful team of professionals and close friends I have made here at InfoComm."
Dr. Lemke holds board positions, and has been the chairman of, Integrated Systems Events, LLC (a joint venture European trade show company) and InfoComm Asia PTE, Ltd. (a joint venture company in Singapore operating InfoComm's Asian tradeshows). He is the founding and current Chairman of the STEP Foundation, a jointly supported foundation composed with other industry associations to bring sustainability to the process of planning, designing, integrating and operating technology systems and reduce long-term environmental impact from technology deployment. He has also served as chief executive of ICIF, InfoComm's charitable foundation.
The InfoComm International Board of Directors will be undertaking an extensive search for Dr. Lemke's successor, with the selection anticipated by the fourth quarter of this year.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, the Chairman of the Leadership Development Committee and Past President of the Board, Jim Ford, said, "We are proud of Randy's extraordinary service to InfoComm International. During an economy when many associations are struggling to survive, InfoComm International has enjoyed tremendous growth under Randy's leadership, quadrupling revenue and expanding our tradeshow presence to 10 shows worldwide. His leadership has taken us from being primarily a dealer trade association, to a global industry association for the entire AV value chain. His dedication to the industry has inspired all of us."
 Looking toward the future, current Board President Greg Jeffreys, stated, "Randy is leaving the Association healthy and well-positioned for continued success. Although we are sorry to see him go, we're pleased he will continue to lead the organization throughout 2012, and we anticipate that even more innovations and exciting opportunities will come to fruition with his successor." 

SKC Communication Products, LLC (Shawnee KS) has purchased videoconferencing and presentation technology integrator Mpact Systems, Inc. (Rock Hill SC), further increasing SKC’s nationwide reach as a unified communications technology integrator. Headquartered in the Kansas City metropolitan area, SKC employs more than 230 technology professionals across the country.
“Mpact’s approach to client service and support is very much in line with SKC’s. Their clients are a natural fit for SKC’s solution offerings and we look forward to the growth opportunities this will bring SKC, our new colleagues and our new clients,” said Tray Vedock, SKC president/CEO.
The transaction was effective January 1, 2012, with Mpact’s employees becoming employees of SKC Communications; the Rock Hill office is now SKC’s Southeast regional headquarters.

Sony Corporation (Tokyo, Japan) and Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. (Seoul, South Korea) have signed agreements to transition their current business relationship with respect to LCD panels.
Under the agreement, Samsung will
acquire all of Sony's shares of S-LCD Corp. their LCD panel manufacturing joint venture, making S-LCD a wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung. Cash consideration of about KRW 1.08 trillion will be paid to Sony by Samsung. Concurrently, the two companies have entered into a new strategic agreement for the supply and purchase of LCD panels with a goal of enhancing the competitiveness of both companies. The agreement also allows Sony and Samsung to continue cooperative engineering efforts focused on LCD panel technology.
This transaction will enable Sony to monetize its shares in S-LCD, and secure a flexible and steady supply of LCD panels from Samsung, based on market prices and without the responsibility and costs of operating a manufacturing facility. With whole ownership of S-LCD, Samsung anticipates heightened flexibility, speed and efficiency in both panel production and business operations.

Global Special Effects, Inc. (Lexington AL), formerly known as SnowMasters Special Effects, has acquired European fireworks manufacturer, Universal Fireworks. Universal Fireworks previously supplied all major theme parks with their daily fireworks displays.

Tech Data Corp. (Clearwater FL) has expanded its digital signage business unit through a US distribution agreement with Saddle Ranch Digital, Inc. (SRD, Beverly Hills CA), including an exclusive line of SKUs specifically developed for Tech Data to complement its full line of content creation and management services, and a financing arrangement with GE Capital, Americas.
“We are pleased to further expand Tech Data’s digital signage offering through these agreements,” said Wendy Maurer-Linsky, Vice President of Peripherals Product Marketing at Tech Data. “Digital signage continues to be a profitable growth area for resellers and our agreements with Saddle Ranch Digital and GE Capital provide our resellers with more opportunities to achieve success and better serve their end-user customers.”
SRD is an advanced media company specializing in strategy and custom content creation for screen media solutions. With roots in Hollywood film production and place-based media, SRD brings more than 25 years of specialist content experience, evolving into high-impact digital media for all size screens.

UK based console manufacturer DiGiCo (Surrey, UK) has secured secondary investment from ISIS Equity Partners almost five years after the company successfully expanded with the backing of Matrix Private Equity Partners. “This is a fantastic opportunity for DiGiCo to build further on the achievements of the last five years,” stated James Gordon, CEO. “The company has expanded rapidly in a short space of time and the timing is perfect to add some new investment and experience to the team. ISIS' historical knowledge of our niche industry is going to be very valuable as the company continues to evolve. Matrix's desire to remain invested within the company and team is a real testament to how well that MBO relationship has worked. The future combined strength of the two houses offers a new dynamic to our future possibilities that I am sure we will take full advantage of.”

Blackmagic Design (Milpitas CA) has acquired Teranex Systems Inc. (Orlando FL), a manufacturer of high performance video processing products for the post production and broadcast industries.
“Teranex is a strategic acquisition for Blackmagic Design,” said Grant Petty, Blackmagic Design CEO. “Its technology, solutions and market complement our own efforts and its high-quality video processing technology enables us to provide our customers with even higher levels of video quality, extending Blackmagic Design’s product range for the broadcast, feature film and high-end post production markets.”

Black Castle Developments Holdings Inc. has entered into a letter of intent to acquire more than 90% of bizM3, a pioneer in digital signage technology and multi-level mobile marketing solutions. Black Castle Developments Holdings, a holding company targeting the acquisition of undervalued, niche companies, is owner of Black Castle Developments, which purchases non-performing notes and bank-owned, income-producing commercial real estate properties. Based in Aliso Viejo CA, bizM3 is one of the first companies to deliver a multi-channel strategy that allows businesses to add a mobile call-to-action to all of its existing marketing channels, both digital and traditional. bizM3’s proprietary technology can send SMS (text messages), MMS (images), IVR (voice), WAP (mobile websites) and digital signage (out-of-home/in-premise advertisements).

In the wake of a lengthy restructuring process, the French company Innovason SAS (Brittany, France) has been dissolved. However, the Innovason brand has been saved by Lawo AG, which now owns all the product and trademark rights. The move, which follows Lawo’s acquisition of the majority shareholding in April 2008, marks the end of a juridical process that resulted in the liquidation of Innovason SAS on November 2, 2011. The Innovason brand will henceforth be managed from Lawo’s HQ in Rastatt, Germany.
According to Marcel Babazadeh, Innovason international sales director, the move is 100% positive for the brand and its customers. “It’s the best of both worlds,” he remarked. “Now that the Innovason products have become part of the range offered by Lawo in Rastatt, it means that the continuity of the brand is guaranteed. At the same time, it benefits from everything that Lawo has to offer with its more than 40 years of experience in professional audio technology.

Trans-Lux Corp. (Norwalk CT), a supplier of LED technology for high-resolution video displays and lighting applications, has completed an extensive financial restructuring and recapitalization of the company, according to Trans-Lux President/CEO J.M. Allain. "I am pleased to report that the hard work by countless people on the restructuring plan has finally delivered. For well over a year now, we have been working with our debt and stakeholders to create a positive and viable way forward. We believe that the successful resolution of our restructuring plan puts us on a solid financial foundation and gives us the working capital to make much needed investments in strategic areas," he stated. "The success of the restructuring plan will now allow us to focus on growing the digital signage and LED lighting businesses. Trans-Lux's portfolio of end-to-end solutions unlocks a whole new realm of new business development opportunities," Allain added.

An AES standards task group chaired by Kevin Gross (who conceived and developed the CobraNet system for transport of real-time, high-quality audio over Ethernet networks) is developing an interoperability standard for audio networking. The project is called X192. Addressing the need for interoperability between products of many different manufacturers, X192, once implemented, will provide manufacturers with the means to remain with the network technology they are invested in, while also seamlessly interfacing with products that support other networks.
There currently is a number of existing and work-in-progress protocols, each with a distinct heritage. These include the IEEE 1733 variant of AVB, Dante, Livewire, Q-LAN and RAVENNA. With an “interoperability mode” built from existing protocols and compatible with existing network equipment, systems integrators and end users will be able to select and interface the products that best meet their design goals with confidence that the X192-enabled devices work and play well together. And by “interoperability,” Gross means the ability for devices operating under various proprietary Layer-3 protocols to easily exchange audio data. Alternately, manufacturers may find that, once fully developed, X192 will meet all their criteria and may decide to implement it as their only networking protocol. QSC Audio Products, LLC and Telos Systems’ Axia Audio division have become sponsoring members supporting Gross’s work.

Effective immediately, StJohn Group, Inc. (Bellingham WA), has discontinued distribution of audio/video products in the North American market for its current vendors, Artcoustic, Cabasse, Cineversum and IMAGE Screens.
Prior to becoming a distributor in 2002, for seven years, StJohn Group had performed marketing services for companies in the financial, wholesale, retail and custom installation industries. Specializing in advertising campaigns, business market development, corporate identity, web development, public relations and collateral development, StJohn Group clients included Russound, A-Bus, Cinematech, InPro Sales, Modern Home Systems, HomeTheater Magazine, Kretek International, Niles Audio, SpeakerCraft, The Center for Due Diligence, CalCrystal Labs, ComClok and many others.

Mount Prospect IL-based Roscor Corp., a media and information technology company that resells and rents audiovisual equipment, laid off about 100 of its employees on October 30. According to company President Paul Roston, Roscor has been struggling since it hit a peak in 2009. He dismissed rumors that the company, which provides professional audio, video, multimedia and computer-based products and services, particularly for broadcast television, along with education and corporate communications, is shutting down.

The InfoComm International Board of Directors has approved creation of an Independent Technical Service Providers Council, a new group with the objective of promoting the role of independent technical service providers (ITSP) for outsourced integration and event project work. The council also gives the independent technical service providers a collective voice with hardware and software vendors. “InfoComm International is pleased to support this growing segment of the AV industry,” said Duffy Wilbert, CTS, CAE, senior vice president of membership, InfoComm International.
Along with approval of the council, the InfoComm Leadership Development Committee appointed Mark DelGuidice, CTS, owner of Wire Wizards Integration in San Diego, as the Council Chair.

YCD Multimedia (New York NY), a provider of smart digital media experiences to the retail business world, has acquired high-end digital signage solutions company C-nario (Tel Aviv, Israel) in a stock transaction. According to the company, the combination brings together two digital signage companies to deliver an end-to-end solution that encompasses everything from content management to measurement and analytics. "This solution is designed to deliver a complete brand experience in the retail industry as well as in other market segments." The company will expand its reach to serve more than 2000 brands, including leading Fortune 500 global brands, in more than 40 countries.
YCD will continue to support to both YCD and C-nario customers, with Noam Levavi, YCD cofounder/CEO leading the combined entity from its New York City headquarters. "This step opens new horizons and creates tremendous opportunities for the consolidated company," said Levavi. "By combining YCD's offering and expertise together with C-nario's high-end digital signage technology, we take another major step toward achieving our vision of delivering personalization and measurement to brick-and-mortar environments."

Tamir Ginat, C-nario's CEO, said, "This is an important step in C-nario's growth and business strategy. Bringing together powerful market-leading technologies will enable us to offer our customers solutions that provide unrivaled capabilities and address current and future needs."
The company also completed a new $6 million fundraising round led by Carmel Ventures, Opus Capital, Pitango Venture Capital and Plenus, together with other existing shareholders. "We are delighted to have assisted this transaction and to be able to invest in the combined entity," said Avi Zeevi, C-nario's chairman/general partner and cofounder of Carmel Ventures. "We can now combine the power of our individual strengths and core competencies to establish a leadership position in the digital signage industry. I would like to thank Tamir Ginat for leading C-nario to its current dominant position, and who was instrumental in making this transaction happen".
"We plan to increase market share and broaden our coverage," said Rami Kalish, YCD's chairman/Managing General Partner and cofounder of Pitango Venture Capital. "We see a tremendous number of business opportunities that we and our partners can effectively and efficiently target, and we plan to pursue those opportunities."

Michael E. Peppel, former president and chief executive officer of MCSi Inc., at one time the largest systems integration firm in the US, was sentenced on October 24 by US District Judge Sandra Beckwith to seven days in federal prison and a $5 million fine. The judge also ordered three years of federal probation supervision. According to a report by John Nolan, Staff Writer for the Dayton Daily News, Peppel faced a potential prison term of eight to 10 years for his guilty pleas to felony crimes that the government said led to the 2003 failure of the company, and caused widespread losses for its employees and investors.

Peppel pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to intentionally report false revenues and earnings at MCSi, to cover up losses and prop up the company's stock prices. (He must submit to random drug testing, and perform community service including public presentations about lessons he learned from his wrongdoing and punishment.) Peppel has agreed to a lifetime ban on his ever serving again as a corporate chief executive, the job he had at MCSi.
According to the report, former employees and investors in MCSi, once known as Miami Computer Supply, said they were stunned by what they described as a light sentence. Dwight Keller, the federal prosecutor who summed up the government's request that Peppel be imprisoned for eight to 10 years, said wrongdoing that undermines public confidence in the honesty of a company's financial reporting to the marketplace must be punished, regardless of whether the defendant has a family and well-stocked bank accounts. The victims included 1300 MCSi employees and at least 281 investors, Keller told the judge.
For more details, see Sound & Communications, NEWSLETTER, September 2010 and News, July 2010 ("Flood Receives Four Year Sentence.")

FrontRow (Petaluma CA) and Calypso Systems (Woodbury MN) are merging into a single entity operating under the name FrontRow. The unified company plans to offer a suite of technologies that schools can use to improve communication within and between classrooms—even with students at home.
The merger will add integrated classroom AV, command and control, and streaming audio resources to a line of premium digital and analog classroom audio products. According to the company, for AV consultants and district technology staff, this creates a powerful new set of tools that meets the full range of school communication needs: classroom audio, content capture, network paging and device command/control. With nationwide and international distribution, the new company can also immediately field a strong team of expert technology consultants and installers to help districts implement these solutions.

Polycom, Inc. (Pleasanton CA), has acquired ViVu, Inc. (Cupertino CA), a privately held video collaboration software company. The transaction was closed on October 14, for undisclosed cash consideration, and Polycom expects the transaction to be neutral to earnings.
ViVu has developed video collaboration software that can be embedded easily into web applications such as enterprise, social and vertical industry applications to enable instant web-based HD video collaboration. ViVu gives Polycom a fast-track to embed HD video into web-based applications through an OEM model, accelerating time-to-market and adoption of Polycom HD video collaboration solutions, and driving awareness of the Polycom brand powering video collaboration inside a wide range of applications.
According to the company, Polycom's vision is to make it possible for millions of people to use video collaboration as their preferred method of communication, regardless of network, carrier, protocol, application or device. The acquisition reinforces Polycom's software strategy (announced September 14). Polycom will leverage ViVu technology in the Polycom RealPresence Platform, software infrastructure for universal video collaboration.

ComQi (Linden NJ), born from the merger of Minicom Digital Signage and EnQii, is partnering with Path Intelligence Inc. (Portsmouth, United Kingdom), which owns proprietary technology that detects and predicts how shoppers and visitors will behave within enclosed environments such as malls, retail stores, transportation hubs and stadiums. Path Intelligence captures data on shoppers by passively and anonymously observing the movement of their mobile phones. The firm provides customized information on how many shoppers there are by department, how long they dwell, how frequently they come back, which stores they visit during their mall trip and how the full path-to-purchase (and beyond) is mapped. Currently, Path Intelligence is working with US retailers J.C. Penney and Home Depot, as well as a number of UK retailers and mall management companies.

Audiovisual systems integrator AVI Systems, based in Eden Prairie MN, has acquired Workplace AV Systems of Sioux Falls SD, a division of Workplace Technology Center specializing in information technology and audiovisual consulting solutions. The purchase of Workplace AV Systems further increases AVI Systems' geographic area in the Midwest market. "The combination of Workplace AV Systems technology solutions with our audiovisual expertise will provide our clients with more solutions, expertise and support," said Glenn Bosch, Regional Vice President of AVI Systems.

ClearOne (Salt Lake City UT), which develops and sells conferencing, collaboration, multi-media streaming and connectivity systems for audio, video and web applications, has acquired MagicBox, Inc. According to ClearOne, this is part of the company's broader strategy to capitalize on emerging market opportunities as audio video, information technology, unified communications and traditional digital signage converge to meet enterprise and commercial multimedia needs.
"The combined expertise of the two companies brings to the market the only complete, end-to-end digital signage content management and IP streaming solution," said Zee Hakimoglu, Chairman/CEO of ClearOne. "The MagicBox content management and control technology and their industry leading database integration software are the perfect complements to ClearOne's StreamNet systems."

In a move designed to provide dealers with a single point of contact for its iconic custom installation brands, The AVC Group (Carlsbad CA), a subsidiary of Nortek, Inc. and part of Nortek's Home Technology Group, is implementing a consolidated independent sales rep network that enables qualifying dealers to have "one source" access to more than 1700 products and system solutions offered by its ELAN, NILES, Xantech, Sunfire and ATON brands.
According to The AVC Group President Mark Terry, the current network of 45 independent rep firms will now be reduced to 15 firms, each of which will carry all five of The AVC Group brands. It is expected that this new sales rep organization will maximize the effectiveness of the recently introduced AVC Advantage program, which combines focused, complementary brand offerings with automatic incentive, rebate and support programs. "As a company we are totally committed to the business model of using independent sales rep firms as our frontline sales force," Terry emphasized. "The implementation of a consolidated rep organization is the next logical step forward in our long term plan to provide dealers with a greater array of opportunities to sell more system solutions to a larger and wider range of customers," Terry said. "This new organization empowers dealers to meet more customer requirements than ever before, allowing them to offer a truly complete range of system and product offerings at every price point."

FiberPlex Technologies, LLC, has acquired FiberPlex, Inc. , based in Annapolis Junction MD, including the LightViper and Shadow brands. In the fiberoptic communications industry since 1987, FiberPlex, Inc., was founded by engineers who had the vision of future communications and understood its value to governmental and civilian security, according to the company. In 2004, spearheaded by Harry S. (Buddy) Oliver III, the company introduced the LightViper brand of products, bringing its knowledge and expertise into the pro audio market.

Radiant Systems, Inc., (Alpharetta GA) has acquired Texas Digital Systems, Inc., (College Station TX) a provider of order confirmation displays and digital signage solutions. Texas Digital's solutions enable businesses to improve order accuracy, increase speed of service and influence sales at the point-of-purchase.
"Order confirmation and digital signage is an emerging growth opportunity for Radiant, and this acquisition enhances our ability to accelerate the adoption of digital signage," said Andy Heyman, COO at Radiant Systems. "Integrating Texas Digital's products into our solution offerings will drive more value for our customers."

The United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit issued an opinion August 8, affirming a November 2008 jury verdict issued by a federal district court in favor of ClearOne against Biamp Systems Corp., for theft of ClearOne's trade secrets, including the federal district court's award of exemplary damages based on the finding that Biamp's misappropriation was willful and malicious. In its ruling, the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals reduced the amount of ClearOne's judgment on two categories of ClearOne's damages, but otherwise affirmed Biamp's liability to ClearOne on every component of ClearOne's judgments against Biamp for theft of ClearOne's trade secrets, including awards for lost profits, unjust enrichment, exemplary damages based on Biamp's willful and malicious conduct, taxable costs, and attorney fees and costs.

RCF and dB Technologies has announced a relocation of its business from New Hampshire to Edison NJ, effective August 15. The move provides the company with a bigger warehouse to receive and ship product more efficiently and inexpensively across the United States. The move will also position the company in a centralized location allowing it to adjust to the U.S. market's needs.

Black Box Corporation, Pittsburgh PA, has acquired privately-held PS Technologies, LLC (PS Tech), based in Dayton OH. PS Tech is the first Black Box acquisition in the rapidly growing enterprise video communications market and services clients in the healthcare and government verticals. PS Tech is a Cisco TelePresence Video Master certified partner with expertise ranging from integration of remote offices via desktop conferencing to deployment of the latest in telepresence technology.

Calibre UK, Bradford, UK, a major player in the development and manufacturing of image processing, scaling and switching products, has appointed Eiki International, Inc., Rancho Santa Margarita CA, as its North American distributor for the HQView professional audiovisual image processing, warp and blend products. The agreement was facilitated by Paul Carey, Marketing Specialists, Inc., Calibre UK's North American master representative and also a manufacturer's representative for Eiki International, Inc.
The range of 13 scaler/processors with models including features such as geometry correction, image warping and soft edge blending was introduced in 2010. This includes the HQView520 scaler, switcher and scan converter with warp and blend and 3G-SDI connectivity.
Calibre UK is also recognized for its manufacturing excellence by InfoComm as a green product innovation and it was also shortlisted as a finalist in the Electronic Product Design Awards, Green Manufacturing Awards Category.

GestureTek, Inc.(Toronto, Canada) has sold certain technology assets to Qualcomm Incorporated (San Diego CA). The acquisition will give Qualcomm ownership of certain intellectual property assets related to gesture recognition. With more than 25 years of experience implementing gesture-based technologies in mobile devices, entertainment facilities, museums, retail locations and other public and private venues, GestureTek will retain selected technology assets and will now focus on its gesture-controlled public display/digital signage and health businesses.

Haivision Network Video (Montreal, Canada), a provider of video networking, digital signage and IP video distribution solutions, has acquired KulaByte Corporation (San Marcos TX) and MontiVision Imaging Technologies (Breiholz, Germany). The technologies of both companies, including advanced encoding, transcoding, cloud computing and workflow solutions, will be combined to form Haivision's new Internet Media Division.
"All market segments now demand access to a high-quality live and on-demand HD media experience regardless of network or platform," said Mirko Wicha, President/CEO of Haivision Network Video. "With KulaByte and MontiVision, Haivision can now deliver end-to-end rich media solutions for both inside and outside the enterprise firewall. The new division is also focused on addressing the challenges of effective social media networks for the enterprise."
KulaByte provides live software-based encoding and transcoding technologies. KulaByte's H.264 encoding software and systems deliver internet streaming of HD content to Flash RTMP and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) for the iPhone/iPad and other platforms. KulaByte's HyperStream is one of the world's first live cloud-based video transcoding services, according to the company. It can transform live video source streams into all of the many formats and data rates required to distribute live video via the internet to every screen, regardless of device, player, screen size or bandwidth. HyperStream reduces the cost and complexity of live video streaming by using the cloud to transcode source streams into multiple formats and bit rates required for diverse media distribution. HyperStream is available as a cloud-based service, a managed server within the cloud or a standalone server appliance.

AMX (Richardson TX), a provider of solutions that simplify the implementation, maintenance and use of technology to create effective environments, has acquired SchoolView Technologies, LLC, a Plano TX-based company specializing in building comprehensive software that consolidates management and control of diverse school technologies at the district, building and classroom level, on a single, comprehensive platform. AMX introduced a partnership with SchoolView Technologies in February 2010, and launched the AMX|SchoolView solutions combining hardware and software that integrates disparate building systems to deliver a central command center in a single location using existing data networks, and capable of scaling for future technology integration, said the company.
According to the company, AMX|SchoolView solutions are successful due in part to its reputation within the education market of controlling costs while providing the highest quality of service, all despite a soft economy. This complete, scalable solution consolidates management and control of traditional bell, clock and PA systems, while addressing the management and control needs of classroom audio, video and presentation tools at the district, building and classroom level, according to the company. As a result, innovative institutions have found the key to controlling cost is simple: Capitalize on their existing disparate technologies through automation and control, said the company.

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has approved InfoComm’s third standard, ANSI/INFOCOMM 3M-2011, Projected Image System Contrast Ratio . The standard provides metrics for measurement and requirements for minimum contrast ratios for rear- and front-projection audiovisual projected image systems. ANSI/INFOCOMM 3M-2011 Projected Image System Contrast Ratio, which applies to both permanent and temporary installations, defines projected image system contrast ratio and its measurement. This standard defines four contrast ratios based on content viewing requirements. The system contrast ratio refers to the image as it is presented to viewers in a space with ambient light. Metrics to measure and validate the defined contrast ratios are also provided. A one-page overview can be found on InfoComm's website.

Following its recent acquisition of Kentucky-based TV One Broadcast Sales Corporation, Nortek, Inc. announced that TV One and Connecticut-based Magenta Researchare cornerstones of the newly formed Magenta Commercial Technology Group.

ABRY Partners, LLC (Boston MA) is purchasing 100% of the existing equity of Masergy Communications, Inc. (Plano TX), a global provider of secure, virtualized network services. The transaction is expected to close within 90 days.
"ABRY Partners is one of the most experienced private equity firms in the media, communications and information industry. ABRY has a strong track record of providing capital to successful companies," said Chris MacFarland, CEO of Masergy. "We believe they are the right partner to continue our growth plans while providing outstanding service to our clients. We are very proud of what Masergy has achieved to date and we look forward to executing the next phase of our growth strategy."

Eight professional audio manufacturers have formed a group whose mission is to secure the standardization of the Open Control Architecture (OCA), a media networking system control standard for professional applications. They include Bosch Communications Systems, d&b audiotechnik, Duran Audio, LOUD Technologies Inc., Media Technology Systems, PreSonus, Salzbrenner Stagetec Mediagroup and TC Group.
The function of the Open Control Architecture Alliance (OCA Alliance, www.oca-alliance.com) is to complete the technical definition of OCA, then to transfer its development to an accredited public standards organization. The standards organization will render the OCA specification into an open public standard for control of professional media network systems.
Developed recently by Bosch Communications Systems, OCA is descended from AES-24, a system control protocol developed by the Audio Engineering Society in the 1990s. OCA defines a flexible and robust control standard that covers the entire range of pro media networking applications, from the smallest to the largest.

San Diego CA-based RF Industries, Ltd. has acquired Long Island NY-based Cables Unlimited, Inc. CUI, a seller of high-value fiberoptic cabling and connector products to enterprise and carrier network customers, for a purchase price of $5,600,000, consisting of $2,800,000 in cash and 762,738 common shares. Privately owned CUI had revenue of about $6,200,000 and non-audited non-GAAP adjusted EBITDA of about $645,000 in its most recent 12 months ended December 31, 2010.
RF Industries also announced that Darren Clark, the sole owner of Cables Unlimited, has been added to RF Industries' Board of Directors. Clark cofounded CUI in 1992 and has been its principal executive officer since the company's formation.

Multi Media Services and Video Systems of the Carolinas have merged to create Unified AV Systems, with Jim Pressley serving as CEO and Bruce Banbury as President.
With headquarters in Atlanta GA and major operational centers in Charlotte NC and Greenville SC, as well as additional sales and technical support offices in Raleigh and Greensboro NC, Unified AV Systems has a large footprint in the region. After many months of planning, the merger combines 55 years of operation as separate, closely held businesses to form a single, integrated commercial AV entity. Unified AV Systems remains employee owned, but has expanded employee participation by implementing a broad-based Employee Stock Ownership Program.

Dutch speaker manufacturer Alcons Audio has formed Alcons Audio USA, which represents the company taking its first significant steps toward penetrating the US market. This brings the advantages of Alcons' range of Pro-Ribbon solutions, from point-source, through line-source, to line array, to a new geographical sector. Alcons Audio USA will be headed by David Rahn, previously National Sales Manager at Renkus-Heinz, and Pauline Ortiz y Pino, business development specialist. It will be based in Dana Point CA.

Polycom is acquiring HP's Visual Collaboration business, including the Halo Products and Managed Services business. The companies also signed a strategic agreement that makes Polycom an exclusive partner to HP for telepresence and certain video UC solutions, including both resale and internal HP deployments, and integrates Polycom's video applications on HP's WebOS TouchPad product line.
Polycom also announced the Open Visual Communications Consortium (OVCC), an open video exchange cloud with leading service providers that will enable visual communications beyond corporate firewalls and proprietary video platforms. OVCC will enable global businesses to connect everywhere and will make it easy for millions to communicate via video similar to the simplicity of how mobile phones connect today.

Denver CO-based LINX, a $32 million communication infrastructure provider, has signed a merger agreement with Solstice Multimedia that combines Solstice and the Audio-Video division of LINX to form a new subsidiary: LINX Multimedia, LLLP. Prior to the merger, privately owned LINX operated three lines of business: voice and data cable services and installation, security systems integration and AV systems.
Denver-based Solstice Multimedia provided integrated electronic systems to commercial and high-end "smart" homes to residential customers.

Effective June 1, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (Irvine CA) has established Mitsubishi Electric Visual Solutions America, Inc. The new company will sell professional visual systems products, including data wall display systems, projectors, LCD digital signage monitors, 3D and 2D home theater front projectors, and professional industrial and photo printers. MEVSA will also manufacture and sell 73-inch and larger 3D DLP Home Cinema televisions and 3D LaserVue televisions for the consumer marketplace. Mitsubishi Electric has withdrawn from the 65-inch and smaller categories of consumer television products in North America.

Legrand, North America, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Middle Atlantic Products, Inc., a New Jersey-based company. The completion of the transaction is anticipated for mid-June and is subject to the satisfaction of certain requirements, including regulatory approval. Prior to closing, Legrand and Middle Atlantic will continue to operate as separate, independent companies.

TV One has sold 100% of the company's stock to a subsidiary of Nortek, Inc., a diversified global manufacturer. The sale includes all TV One-related, wholly owned companies in the US, UK, Taiwan and China. TV One will be included in Nortek's Technology Products segment and closely aligned with Magenta Research Ltd. The transaction was completed on April 28.

EnQii Holdings and Minicom Digital Signage (MDS) have merged their companies, creating a global presence in multichannel message management. The merged company, it says, will offer a platform that provides leadership, simplicity and innovation in a complex marketplace. Jerusalem Venture Partners (JVP) led a growth capital financing round together with other existing shareholders—Wellington Partners, Amadeus Capital Partners and Aviv Ventures—to complete the merger. The financing will go toward expanding the current solutions portfolio, as well as to grant necessary resources for additional acquisitions.

Norway's projectiondesign has successfully concluded negotiations on acquiring longstanding partner and distributor projectiondesign LLC, the exclusive distributor of projectiondesign products in North America since 2004. "North America represents the largest single market for our…projection and display technologies…," remarked Executive Vice President Åsmund O. Fodstad, who was recently appointed by projectiondesign to drive its global growth. "Increasing our efforts and focus in this market will see a visible increase in presence and strengthen our ambition of being the preferred projector and services supplier."

Coleman Cable, Inc., has completed the acquisition of the assets of First Capitol Wire & Cable, as well as the assets of Continental Wire & Cable, for a total purchase price of $7.15 million. First Capitol and Continental are manufacturers of industrial wire and cable products used across a number of commercial, utility and industrial end-markets. Both companies have a history of providing customers with custom wire and cable products, including First Capitol's design and production of a broad line of high-temperature wire and cable products used in OEM applications, as well as within a number of applications for the energy, commercial and industrial end markets.

The MUSIC Group has recently filed suit in US District Court against Peavey Electronic Corporation, alleging false advertising, false patent marking and unfair competition. The suit alleges that Peavey intentionally mislabeled its products in the US market. The MUSIC Group alleges that Peavey's products are not labeled in accordance with US patent laws and FCC regulations.

MSE Audio of Overland Park KS www.mseaudio.com has acquired Commerce CITY CO-based Rockustics, Inc. www.rockusticsinc.com, manufacturer of premium rock speaker products. Founded in 1987 by Tony Mulé, Rockustics designs and manufactures attractive, durable weatherproof speakers for residential and commercial markets. Rockustics products are designed to resemble landscaping features and are used in gardens, patios and other outdoor areas.
Rockustics speakers are found in venues ranging from The White House gardens to major theme parks to residential back yards. The line's nearly 30 products include rock speakers, omnidirectional speakers, subwoofers, speakers built into garden planters and speakers designed to be placed in landscaping walls.

InfoComm International is calling all applicants for its three unique awards, all of which will be presented at InfoComm 2011: Adele De Berri Pioneers of AV Award, Distinguished Achievement Award and Educator of the Year Award. What better way and place to recognize unique contributions to the AV industry? The deadline for each individual award has been extended to Monday, May 2. Application information and forms can be found at www.infocomm.org/awards.

Following a life of business achievement and public service, Dr. Sidney Harman, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of the company that bears his name, died on April 12 at 92. The cause, according to a statement by the family, was complications of acute myeloid leukemia. Family members said they learned of his illness only about a month ago. Dr. Harman co-founded his business in 1953. Blending an early interest in audio and the arts with his doctoral studies in business and education, he introduced one of the first FM radio tuners and the world's first stereo receiver. This passion led to other innovations, including the early Harman-Kardon stereo systems that remain popular with enthusiasts from every generation.

InfoComm International’s latest draft standard, 3M-2011 Projected Image System Contrast Ratio, is open for public review and comment. The Standard provides metrics for measurement and defines minimum contrast ratios for rear- and front-projection audiovisual projected image systems. 3M-2011 Projected Image System Contrast Ratio, which applies both to permanent and to temporary installations, defines projected image system contrast ratio and its measurement.

Editor's Note: We continue to monitor the unfolding developments in Japan. Previous updates appeared on March 14, March 18 and March 22. Keep checking this website for additional information as it becomes available. Please note that Sound & Communications will offer an extensive overview of the situation in our May issue.

Sony Corp. has updated the status of Sony Group manufacturing operations affected by the March 11 East Japan earthquake, tsunami and related power outages, as of April 6.
As of March 14, operations at 10 Sony Group sites and facilities had been suspended as a result of damage caused by the earthquake, tsunami and related power outages. As announced on March 22, manufacturing operations at three of these sites had since resumed or partially resumed. As of April 6, manufacturing operations at five other sites have also resumed or partially resumed.

Accent Electronic System Integrators, Inc., has acquired Trinity Technology of Boca Raton FL. This transaction was effective March 29. Accent is a privately held electronic system integrator, focused on providing converged audio, video, data, security and communications systems for a broad base of facilities. Trinity Technology was launched in 2006 to specialize in upscale residential and yacht installations throughout the US and abroad. The company was formed to handle the complexities involved with integrating and managing myriad technologies.

Califone, a subsidiary of School Specialty, has reached an agreement to acquire the Discovery, Odyssey, Explorer and 610 brand names of headphones, headsets and their replaceable cords from Telex. The purchase, effective immediately, transitions the manufacturing, marketing and distribution of the product lines to fall under full Califone ownership and management.

Debbe Stephenson, President of Pro Co, has decided to retire. After a long career with the company, Stephenson will step away from her duties at Pro Co on May 20. "I feel very comfortable with my decision, knowing that Pro Co is finally stable and in extremely good hands," she stated. According to Stephenson, the decision to retire was actually made four years earlier. She explained, "I had expressed my decision to retire to Charlie [Wicks] four years ago.

Electrosonic has acquired systems integrator Excel Media Systems Inc. The company will become part of Electrosonic’s corporate solutions business, offering meeting room and videoconferencing systems with full after-sales services from offices in New York City. The acquisition, the companies say, expands Electrosonic’s corporate solutions business in the New York tri-state area and allows the company to better serve its international clients with local offices. Electrosonic’s AV systems knowledge and project management expertise will ensure that Excel Media’s customers will receive service and support.

Milestone AV Technologies, manufacturer of Chief and Sanus brand AV mounting and display solutions, and Da-Lite Screen Company have reached a merger agreement. The combination of Milestone and Da-Lite, the companies say, will create an industry force in mounting solutions, AV furniture and projection screens across both commercial and consumer AV markets. With nearly 1000 employees worldwide and eight major operating locations around the globe, the combined business, the companies say, will be positioned to deliver customer service and product innovation.

Carousel Industries has completed its acquisition of Farmingdale NY-based Juma Technology Corp., an Avaya Business Partner. With the acquisition, Carousel Industries says it significantly increases its footprint to serve customers in the northeastern US, while augmenting its engineering staff with additional talent. According to Jeff Gardner, CEO of Carousel Industries, "This acquisition not only significantly expands our geographic reach in our core areas of expertise, but also increases the strength of our engineering team, since we are bringing on some extremely talented industry veterans who are very well versed in IP telephony and unified communications.

Mood Media Corp. has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Muzak Holdings LLC , for $345 million, including net debt to be repaid on closing. Based in Fort Mill SC, Muzak is a provider of a range of products. Its background and foreground music, voice and digital offerings reach more than 100 million people every day. In 2010, Muzak had $195 million in revenue and $55 million in EBITDA. More than 75% of Muzak’s revenue is associated with multi-year customer contracts.

Polycom, Inc. , has announced the acquisition of Accordent Technologies, Inc., a provider of video content management and delivery solutions, for about $50 million in cash. Polycom expects this acquisition to be neutral to earnings in 2011 and slightly accretive to earnings in 2012. According to the company, the acquisition positions Polycom to become a leader in the video content management and delivery market by integrating Polycom’s open standards UC Intelligent Core and UC endpoints with Accordent’s open standards video content management solution. The Accordent solution provides capture solutions for all major video use cases, whether delivering highly scalable live webcasts from the studio, providing automated rich media webcasting from the meeting or classroom, adding a streaming extension to videoconferences or enabling user-generated content from the desktop.

Editor's Note: We continue to monitor the unfolding developments in Japan in the wake of the disastrous earthquake and tsunami. Our first update was March 14 and our second update was March 18. Keep checking this website for additional information as it becomes available.
JVC Kenwood Holdings, Inc., has confirmed the safety of its employees and their immediate families following the recent Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. Some of the company's offices in Japan suffered minor damage, but they were repaired quickly and have been back in operation since March 14. There was also damage to some sales and service offices in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, as well as warehouses operated for JVC Kenwood Group by third parties. Repairs are currently underway.

Editor's Note: Our sincere wishes go out to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy. Our first update appeared on March 14. We will be reporting any news that comes in about the developing events from Japan.
According to Panasonic’s Jim Reilly: Panasonic Corporation’s headquarters is in Osaka, which is in western Japan. The earthquake was centered in the northeast part of Japan, so headquarters operations were not physically impacted. The company does have four manufacturing facilities in the areas impacted by the earthquake. A few employees at those facilities received minor injuries. The company is continuing to work to confirm the safety of the employees. Among those facilities, some parts of ceilings and walls were damaged, but there were no fires or building collapses.
In the affected area, Panasonic is continuing to place a priority on the safety of employees, and is cooperating with the planned power outages scheduled by the local power companies to save energy. In parallel, Panasonic is preparing to resume production at factories there, while confirming the adequate supply of electricity, gas and water, as well as the required logistics and supplies.
Panasonic Corporation will donate 300 million yen and necessary supplies, including 10,000 radios, 10,000 flashlights and 500,000 dry batteries to support the swift recovery of the northeast area of Japan.
Due to large electricity shortages, Panasonic Group is also calling out to save electricity and will start by turning off outdoor signage and refraining from using electricity at all applicable facilities.
Panasonic Group and its employees sincerely hope for swift recovery of the people and areas affected by the disaster.
In addition,Panasonic announced donations of 4000 units of Solar LED Lanterns, in addition to donations previously announced, for the victims of the earthquake. Panasonic and its Workers Unions Association will also launch a fundraising campaign involving employees of the Panasonic Group companies to support the affected area.
In addition, here is a statement from Audio-Technica U.S.: Audio-Technica U.S. extends its deepest condolences to those affected by the 2011 Tohoku Pacific Coast earthquake. Audio-Technica Japan facilities have not been damaged by the disaster, and all employees are accounted for and safe. Operations at Audio-Technica Japan are normal, although minimally affected by power outages, as office workers with long commutes are working from home when possible via cell phone and computer. The company is constantly monitoring the status of operations at all sites, with safety being the number one priority.
Audio-Technica U.S. is assessing the effect this disaster may have on its supply chain, but, at this time, no major disruptions are anticipated.
To help in the relief and recovery efforts for communities affected by the Tohoku earthquake, Audio-Technica U.S. is making a donation to the Japanese Red Cross Society.
“We are tremendously grateful that our colleagues in Japan are safe, and that our facilities have not been damaged,” said Audio-Technica U.S. President Phil Cajka. “Our deepest sympathies are with the victims of this disaster. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Japan, and to our colleagues and friends at Audio-Technica Japan and their families.”

Stampede, a value-added distributor of commercial audio video solutions, has acquired Spire Global, the exclusive distributor of Sony videoconferencing products in the US. Spire is also the exclusive master distributor for Compunetix video multiparty control units and MediaPointe video streaming technology. The company also distributes Mirial desktop videoconferencing products. "Acquiring Spire was [an] opportunity to widen our product portfolio with an additional specialty that is meaningful to our dealer base," said Mark Wilkins, CEO of Stampede. "Our strategy is to look for additional acquisition opportunities that will strengthen our offering to dealers."

Editor's Note: Our sincere wishes go out to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy. We will be reporting any news that comes in about the developing events from Japan.
Please check this site regularly for updates.
Tak Nakata, President of Yamaha Corp. of America, who is currently in Hamamatsu, Japan, issued the following message:
“On behalf of Yamaha, I wish to thank our business partners in the United States for their thoughts and prayers in response to the earthquake that impacted Japan and the Pacific basin…

Panamax/Furman will be combining LiteTouch, a manufacturer of lighting control products, with its operations. Both companies are subsidiaries of the Home Technology Group of Linear, LLC. An industry presence for more than 35 years, Panamax delivers power management, monitoring and control solutions for professional custom electronics integrators. The Furman brand provides a range of power management solutions for musicians, audio professionals and commercial AV integrators. LiteTouch delivers lighting control solutions to be installed and custom-programmed by authorized dealers, certified installers and distributors worldwide. LiteTouch lighting control systems are engineered for both new construction and retrofit applications.

D&M Canada has announced a reorganization of its business and the resultant closing of an office in Markham, Ontario, Canada, on June 30. This move serves to re-position the company's New Jersey headquarters to cover the complete North American region, including Canadian sales and operations. The reorganization will result in an undetermined number of job losses.

Carousel Industries, involved in data networking and unified communications, has signed a letter of intent to acquire the assets of Marlborough MA-based OmniPresence, Inc., an integrator of AV and visual collaboration services. When the acquisition is completed, the newly acquired company will form the core of Carousel's Visual Communications and Collaboration Group.
By acquiring OmniPresence, Carousel increases its capacity to incorporate collaborative AV elements into a range of installation opportunities.

Shure Inc. has acquired Informationsteknik of Copenhagen, Denmark, a provider of discussion systems and creative audio/video communication solutions. “This acquisition is beneficial to both organizations,” stated Sandy LaMantia, Shure President/CEO. “By coming together, we will significantly strengthen both companies’ global reach and market position. We welcome all of the members of Informationsteknik and we look forward to their continued success.”

Chilin Technology announced the development of Chilin Solutions for the continued support of the global market for Chilin’s portfolio of specialty display products and solutions. Chilin Solutions will integrate Chilin Technology’s commercial LCD display group, along with Vertigo Digital Displays Inc. and Chilin’s commercial e-Paper solutions group, into one global business. Chilin Solutions will be headquartered in Portland OR, with facilities located in Tainan, Taiwan; Toronto, Canada; and Soest, Netherlands.
Chilin Technology’s commercial LCD display business will form the core of Chilin Solutions, which is focused on the design and manufacturing of a range of commercial LCD monitors and specialty displays for many brands. Products from Chilin Solutions range from 32 inches to 82 inches diagonal, as well as super-narrow-bezel displays for larger videowall applications.

Kevin Collins, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for HB Communications, headquartered in North Haven CT, died unexpectedly on January 26, at age 53. At HB since 1987, he initially joined HB to enhance and expand sales, installation and service of large screen data and video display systems, and was instrumental in the formation and development of HB's systems integration group. He oversaw design, installation and project management of all major installations done by the company.

Williams Sound, LLC , has completed a recapitalization of the company, with financing provided by Cardinal Equity Partners, a private equity firm based in Indianapolis IN. “We are excited to partner with Cardinal Equity to achieve our shared vision of accelerating growth in our core business and to pursue new growth opportunities,” commented Paul Ingebrigtsen, President/CEO of Williams Sound. “We were attracted to Cardinal Equity partners because of their approach to long-term growth strategies, and a close cultural and philosophical fit. Cardinal brings management and financial depth to the table….”

InfoComm International has been selected to provide meeting and events training for PSAV Presentation Services. InfoComm was chosen because of the association's focus on developing well-researched curricula that is practical and up-to-date. The agreement allows PSAV to train an unlimited number of employees online in InfoComm classes, including Essentials of the AV Industry, Event Set Up for AV Techs and AV Math

USAV Group, an association of commercial audiovisual integrators, announced that it has finalized a relationship with NEC Display Solutions, making NEC the newest USAV Group Preferred Manufacturer Partner (PMP). USAV Group now has buying programs established with 19 AV suppliers in the industry. NEC, which designs, produces and delivers visual display technology for a variety of markets, specializes in desktop LCDs, large-screen LCD displays and a line of projectors.

InfoComm International, which provides training and education programs for the commercial audiovisual industry, has been selected to provide live events training for nearly 200 employees in AVI-SPL's Rental and Staging Division in the US and Mexico. InfoComm was approached by the company following positive experiences using InfoComm's curricula and instructors for training AV design and installation professionals. The agreement covers classes including Quick Start to the AV Industry Online, Principles of Tech Support Online, Essentials of AV Technology, CTS Prep Virtual Classroom, AV Math Online, Staging and Events Management and Design Online.Classes will be available in English and Spanish.

Grass Valley announced that Francisco Partners, a technology-focused investment company, has completed the closing process with Technicolor and finalized the acquisition of the Grass Valley Broadcast & Professional business. As of January 1, Grass Valley began doing business as an independent company, under the trade name "Grass Valley." Terms of the sale include 100% ownership of the current Grass Valley Broadcast & Professional business.

AEA Investors LP and Troxell Communications, Inc. , have completed the acquisition of CCS Texas (Integrated AV Systems) in Houston, Texas. CCS Texas is a $58M AV integrator serving the Texas and Louisiana markets. The acquisition is scheduled to close imminently. Mark Kalinsky, the CEO and President of CCS Texas, will remain with the business and transition to the President of the AV integration business. He will have continued responsibility for the CCS Texas business in Texas and Louisiana and will also lead the strategy and development of Troxell’s integration business nationwide. He will report directly to Greg Cessna, Troxell CEO/President.

Yamaha Corporation Japan and Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems, Inc. (Buena Park CA) have formed a strategic partnership with Rupert Neve Designs, based on both parties’ involvement with VCM (Virtual Circuitry Modeling) Technology. Using VCM, an exclusive Yamaha digital technology, engineers can achieve stunning sonic and musical performance by actually modeling the individual characteristics of a multitude of parts and components contributing to the final sound of original analog circuitry.
VCM recreates the sound and characteristics of several classic compression and EQ units and tape machines from the 70s available on most current Yamaha digital mixers. Not only do these models capture the unique saturation of analog circuitry, but they have also been fine-tuned by leading engineers and feature carefully selected parameters in a simple interface that makes it easier than ever to create the ideal sound. Subtle saturation effects have been modeled to bring the warmth and richness of the original analog gear back to life in a stable, easy-to-operate digital format.

Rupert Neve Designs has openly embraced Yamaha VCM technology as the first digital technology that can accurately reproduce Rupert Neve’s renowned analog sound, reaffirming the Yamaha commitment to digital and that digital can sound as pleasing as analog.
“With Yamaha VCM technology, we’re able to pick up the amazing quality of musicality and accuracy that was inherent in the original Rupert Neve Designs Portico modules,” stated Rupert Neve. “Yamaha engineers are to be congratulated on having been able to successfully emulate that musical sound from my designs. It’s a real pleasure to work with people who are dedicated and knowledgeable, and able to perceive the sort of things that I’m trying to convey in my designs.”
“Yamaha is extremely fortunate to have the wisdom of the legendary Rupert Neve, personally responsible for the direction our industry has taken in achieving the ‘classic sound,’ acknowledge that our VCM Technology well represents this classic sound,” stated Larry Italia, Vice President/General Manager, Yamaha Commercial Audio Systems, Inc. “We know this will be the first of many joint efforts between our two companies.”

The Supervisory Board of Sennheiser electronic GmbH & Co. KG (Wedemark, Germany) has adopted the company’s new global organizational structure. Three responsive “Business Divisions” designed for the target markets of “Consumer Electronics,” “Professional Systems” and “Installed Sound” will be supported by a corporate group with three divisions. “With this structure, we are implementing clear customer orientation as part of our corporate strategy and will be able to act in a more decisive and target-oriented manner in the future,“ explained Prof. Dr. Jörg Sennheiser, Chairman of the Supervisory Board.
The new structure of the company consists of seven units:
• Business Division Consumer Electronics, managed by Peter Callan
• Business Division Professional Systems, managed by Dr. Heinrich Esser
• Business Division Installed Sound,
ad interim managed by Dr. Heinrich Esser
• Sales Division, managed by Paul Whiting
• Supply Chain Division, managed by Dr. Andreas Sennheiser
• Corporate Services, managed by Volker Bartels
• Strategy and Finance, managed by Daniel Sennheiser

The managers of these units will form the new Executive Management Board (EMB) of the Sennheiser Group, with Volker Bartels as its spokesperson.
The three business divisions will operate within their respective business sectors tasked with specific strategies and resources but will work alongside the value-added chain. This means that the various sectors’ specific customer needs can be fulfilled quickly and securely. The Consumer Electronics division will concentrate on the headphone trade sector as well as audiology and telecommunications products. The Professional Systems division will manage professional audio, live sound, studio and professional headsets, while the Installed Sound division will cover fixed sound-program transmission systems.
“These streamlined, independent business units can now focus more closely on their customers and the demands of the respective markets, thereby helping create the foundation for continued, sustainable growth of the company,“ explained Volker Bartels, spokesperson for the Executive Management Board and President for Production and Logistics. “They will be supported by three corporate divisions that will be focusing on their strategy more than ever before to enable greater efficiency and a longer-term market activity and presence.“
The implementation of the new organization commences on January 1, 2011, and will be finalized at the end of the year.

LG Electronics Inc. (Seoul, South Korea), according to a Wall Street Journal article, plans to dissolve its Business Solutions unit in 2011. In the wake of these reports, LG has confirmed that the commercial display business in the US remains intact. From a corporate structure standpoint, LG Business Solutions, now known as “LG Commercial Displays,” has been incorporated into LG’s Home Entertainment business unit. However, in the US, the Commercial Displays business will continue to operate as a separate business.

In exclusive comments to Sound & Communications, John Taylor, Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications, said, “What this means for us in the United States is having access to some of the latest display technologies and being more responsive to our customer needs from a product standpoint. But, from an operational standpoint in the US, it’s really business as usual. The LG Commercial Displays business in the United States is operated separately here from Home Entertainment because of the unique needs of the business-to-business market. It should be seamless to our customers.”
Wayne Park, President of LG Electronics USA, Inc., named Regional Business Leader Y.K. Cho as head of the US Commercial Displays business. Ron Snaidauf, Vice President, Commercial Displays, continues to lead the lodging, hospitality and healthcare segments, while Jeff Dowell, Vice President, Digital Signage, continues to lead the digital signage and monitor business areas addressing the restaurant, retail, education and industrial markets.

Group One Ltd. has been appointed as US distributor of Van Damme Cables. Based in the United Kingdom, Van Damme Cables offers a range of cables frequently found on tours and in studios, in post and broadcast production arenas, as well as in commercial and corporate installations. “It was vital for us to find the right partners and to work with like-minded companies,” commented Van Damme Cable Managing Director Niall Holden, “so we are delighted to be working with Group One Ltd. They have a…reputation for quality and service and we are proud to be a part of it.”

“We’ve been recommending Van Damme cable for a few years now,” remarked Group One President Jack Kelly. “Over the last year, we’ve been talking to Managing Director Niall Holden and Export Manager Andy Dennis and it just seemed the right time for all of us. It’s a very natural fit for Group One, as the variety of cable products Van Damme offers cuts across many of our activities, including broadcast/ production, touring, install, marine and music retail. I like the customer service focus of the company and I’m…happy to join the Van Damme family.”

RHC Holding Corp., in conjunction with its financial partners, Midwest Mezzanine Funds and Bush O’Donnell, announced that it has signed a definitive sale agreement as of November 19, 2010, for the asset purchase of Pro Co Sound, Inc. Pro Co Sound, a Michigan-based corporation founded in 1974, designs and manufactures cable and interfacing products servicing the retail music markets as well as the commercial AV installation and broadcast industries.

RHC Holding Corp. owns and operates six separate companies, including The RapcoHorizon Company, which services the retail music market and the commercial AV installation market, and Major Custom Cable, which services the datacom and telecommunications industries.
“No major changes to Pro Co Sound or any RHC company will be implemented at this time,” said Dale Williams, President of RHC Holding Corp. “Each RHC Holding Company will champion the philosophy of providing our customers with…value and…innovative product designs backed by the…customer service [upon which] our dealers have come to depend.”
In our March 2010 edition’s NEWSLETTER, we announced the death of Charlie Wicks, CEO/Founder of Pro Co Sound.

InfoComm International is launching GovComm 2011, a professional audiovisual and information communications exposition and conference to be held November 1 to 2, 2011, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington DC. This two-day event is designed to serve Washington DC-area technology managers, end users and procurement officers in the government and military sectors. The event will feature exhibits, networking opportunities, education, manufacturers' training and InfoComm Certified Technology Specialist testing.

GovComm 2011 will feature more than 100 manufacturers of digital signage, videoconferencing and telepresence, projection, display, 3D, control systems, audio and AV networking technologies. These solutions are important to supporting training, command and control, communications, presentations and other net-centric AV activities performed by the government and military.
The exhibit floor will be open 9:00am to 4:00pm on both days. Each morning will feature a keynote speaker or panel discussion. Hour-long education classes held concurrently with the exhibits will be taught by experts from the InfoComm Academy. Training will address collaborative communications in a secure environment and future technology trends, including secure AV; command and control display applications; videoconferencing and telepresence; AV system energy management; and sustainability issues. Additionally, product- and service-specific training sessions from manufacturers will be held on the show floor concurrent with the exhibits.

LG Electronics USA has selected BroadSign International as the software provider for its newest digital signage solution, SuperSign Premier-s. The alliance with BroadSign, involved in the digital signage market with SaaS technology, makes it easier for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to deploy and manage digital signage networks. LG’s SuperSign Premier provides content offerings that SMBs can use right out of the box. SuperSign Premier’s user interface (UI) is based on BroadSign’s core SaaS technology and has a customized LG UI designed for SMBs deploying networks of 25 players or less.

The hardware package consists of an LG flat-panel display (model M4214C) and the LG NC2000 media player that provides access to content management software and starter templates, as well as news and weather feeds.
“Software is a critical component of any digital signage solution and is the impetus behind establishing strong relationships with…third-party software developers,” said Jeff Dowell, Vice President, Digital Signage, LG Electronics USA. “BroadSign has…software that, combined with LG hardware, will provide SMBs with the technology solution they need to get up and running quickly.”
Brian Dusho, CEO, BroadSign International, said, “To win over small and medium-sized businesses, a digital signage system should be easy to use, yet versatile and powerful in the back-end.” He continued, “BroadSign software is an integral component of LG’s total solutions package….”

DisplaySearch has announced that it has partnered with InfoComm International to co-locate its 4th annual Digital Signage Conference with InfoComm 2011 in Orlando FL. The annual conference, which focuses on both the digital signage business and advanced display technologies for the segment, will be held on June 14 during InfoComm 2011 at the Orange County Convention Center. The conference will bring together display vendors, IT companies and companies already well established in out-of-home digital signage environments.

Additionally, they will be joined by new ventures that digital displays are helping to foster. Applications to be examined include mass transit; mixed-use information and advertising signage; electronic menu boards; higher education installations; point-of-sale and dynamic signage for retail; corporate mass-communication networks; out-of-home advertising/information/security messaging; and emerging solutions for the outdoor portion of the out-of-home market.
"The [commercial] AV market continues to embrace flat-panel technologies, which have become inexorably linked to digital signage," noted Randal A. Lemke, PhD, Executive Director and CEO, InfoComm International. "We are pleased to offer a conference at InfoComm 2011 that examines the flat-panel market and other emerging displays associated with digital signage. The Digital Signage Conference is the perfect complement to the integrated technologies attendees can see on the show floor.”

Haivision (Montréal, Quebec, Canada) has acquired the assets of CS Software Holdings, LLC, including the CoolSign product technology. CoolSign, a presence in the digital signage market, provides software solutions for mission-critical, enterprise-ready signage deployments. According to the companies, with CoolSign, Haivision can deliver solutions that combine intelligent video with graphics and data easily and securely to any desktop, display, digital frame and mobile device.

“Haivision recognizes the opportunity for converging video streaming, IPTV, interactive media and digital signage,” said Mirko Wicha, President/CEO of Haivision Network Video. “We are positioned [to] deliver end-to-end technology solutions and a unified infrastructure for communications across all media delivery platforms.”
CoolSign was initially launched more than 12 years ago. A few years ago, Planar Systems, Inc. (Beaverton OR), owned the CoolSign Digital Signage business.

Flexible Picture Systems has appointed SpectraCal Sales Inc.as a distributor for its Image AnyPlace-200 high performance video and graphics scaler with Geometry Correction and Edge Blending. AnyPlace-200 provides the ability to correct off-axis projector placement of up to +/- 40 degrees horizontally and/or vertically, including projection onto curved, cylindrical, spherical and irregular surfaces.

SpectraCal Sales is a growing sales organization that provides everything needed for optimizing video displays: the software CalMAN, a range of colorimeters and spectrophotometers for accurate color measurement, test pattern sources and an education program.
According to Steve Wood, President and CEO of Flexible Picture Systems, “[SpectraCal has] established trusted relationships with integrators and installers who turn to them for solutions.” Added Jeff Murray, President of SpectraCal Sales, “Our clients rely on us to recommend reliable solutions that will deliver the best image for their customers. With Image AnyPlace-200, we’re not just bringing them a…solution. We’re bringing them a solution they can’t get anywhere else.”

3M, through its 3M New Ventures business, has invested in Perceptive Pixel Inc., a developer of multi-touch solutions that is based in New York City. Terms of the transaction remain undisclosed. Founded by Jeff Han in 2006, Perceptive Pixel is dedicated to the research, development and production of multi-touch interfaces for the knowledge worker. The company’s hardware and software products enable users to manipulate complex datasets through a new class of interface techniques.

According to the company, the combination of its technologies with those of 3M will create new opportunities for both companies.

“Perceptive Pixel has developed…technologies to enable intuitive multi-user, multi-touch interaction,” Stefan Gabriel, President, 3M New Ventures, said. “This strategic investment will create potential growth opportunities for the 3M Touch Systems business unit, stimulating future innovations in a variety of industries that use multi-touch devices.”
Added Voyl Divljakovic, Vice President and General Manager, 3M Electronic Solutions Division, “Coupled with 3M Touch Systems’…single-touch, gesture touch and multi-touch screen solutions, we believe this partnership will change the way users interact with a variety of technologies in the years to come.”

Kramer Electronics has established a group devoted to the educational market within the commercial AV industry. The group will work to expand the Kramer and Sierra Video product offerings, create marketing tools to increase brand(s) awareness and develop
more and better sales opportunities within the educational vertical market for the company’s dealers, systems
integrators and OEMs.
This group, spearheaded by Tom McCarthy, Kramer’s Vice President of OEM Sales, and Brian Morris, Sales Support Engineer, will address this specific vertical market of the commercial AV industry.

They will work closely with the company’s Kramer and Sierra Video customers and factories to create new products and opportunities for the educational market.
“This is the third major organizational change we have made to
our sales team in the past few months. Previously, we announced a new group headed by Mike Lewis to concentrate on cable and room connectivity products; we also combined national sales management responsibility for both Kramer and Sierra Video branded products under Kent Cawthorne,” said Dave Bright, President of Kramer Electronics USA. “The education market is currently our largest vertical, and I am confident Tom and Brian
will be successful taking it to [a] higher level. We have many more changes planned for the coming months to grow and better support our rapidly growing vertical markets,” added Bright.
McCarthy has more than 25 years of sales management experience at JVC, Maxell and Panasonic. His most recent position was Director of New Business Development at Panasonic.

NSCA and USAV Group have announced an endorsement agreement
involving NSCA’s Business & Leadership Conference and NSCA membership. The endorsement package provides opportunities for USAV Group members to take advantage of discounts on both membership and NSCA’s 2011 Business & Leadership Conference, set for February 17-19
in San Diego CA.

The agreement with NSCA provides USAV Group with opportunities to offer its members access to experts on critical issues affecting the entire industry. In return, NSCA will participate in USAV Group’s regional events to inform and educate USAV Group members on business opportunities, such as mass notification and emergency communications. Many AV integrators belong to both USAV Group and NSCA; this partnership will offer additional savings exclusive to members of USAV Group.

Richardson Electronics, Ltd., has announced the signing of a definitive agreement to sell its RF, Wireless and Power Division (RFPD) and certain other assets to Arrow Electronics, Inc., for $210 million in cash. RFPD is a global provider of engineered solutions and a global distributor of electronic components to the RF and wireless communications market and the industrial power conversion market. RFPD designs, manufactures and distributes discrete devices,

components and assemblies used in RFand wireless infrastructure communications networks, digital broadcasting, defense applications and power conversion. RFPD generated revenue of $356 million during fiscal year 2010.
Arrow intends to operate RFPD, which will be called "Richardson RFPD," as a separate business unit of Arrow Electronics. Richardson RFPD headquarters will remain in LaFox IL.
"The decision to divest the RFPD division was not an easy one; however, this transaction provides an excellent return on our investment," said Edward J. Richardson, Chairman and CEO of Richardson Electronics, Ltd. The transaction is subject to the approval of shareholders of Richardson Electronics as well as customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. The companies expect the transaction to close in early 2011.

Shure Inc. and a number of congressional legislators applauded a decision by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to protect wireless microphone users from interference from “white space devices.” The Memorandum Opinion and Order issued by the FCC reserves two TV channels nationwide for wireless microphone use. The reserved channels are off-limits to UHF Band Devices that operate in the white spaces between assigned TV stations, thus preventing them from interfering with wireless microphone signals on those channels. Large-scale users would be able to achieve extended protection for specific events through the geo-location database prescribed by the FCC in 2008.
“It’s clear that the FCC carefully considered the needs of wireless microphone users while crafting this Order,” said Sandy LaMantia, President

and CEO of Shure Inc. “The reserved channels will provide a safe harbor in which musicians, small theaters, houses of worship and businesses can operate their wireless microphone systems without interference from new TV Band Devices.”
Legislators have been actively following the FCC’s plan to allow unlicensed devices to share the “white spaces” and the potential impact on wireless microphone users. Representative Bobby Rush (D-IL) submitted a bill that would require wireless microphone users to be protected. “The legislation I introduced called for interference protection for professional wireless microphones in the wide variety of venues in which they are used today,” said Representative Rush. “This Order effectively grants that protection and will ensure continuity of service for houses of worship, theaters, music tours and venues, sporting events, and the various civic and corporate environments that rely on quality audio in America today.”
According to Mark Brunner, Senior Director of Global Brand Management at Shure, “The Order demonstrates the FCC’s commitment to supporting America’s position as a leader in the creation of news, sports, cultural and entertainment content at venues of all sizes.”

QSC Audio Products has announced a co-development partnership with the M&W Pro Audio, Ltd. to create a series of digital audio mixing consoles. Greg Mackie and Peter Watts are, respectively, the “M” and the “W” in the organization’s name. After retiring from Mackie Designs (now Loud Technologies) in 2003, Mackie still had a desire to create products. His longtime friend and collaborator Watts convinced him to come out of retirement in 2008 and develop the concepts for a line of digital mixing consoles.

Watts is also an experienced pro audio veteran who has spent 35 years designing analog and digital recording consoles, including the first digitally controlled console, the Trident DiAn.
“We needed a pro audio partner with established sales, marketing and distribution. A partner with a solid reputation for quality and reliability—one that had the technical capabilities to develop advanced digital mixing consoles and the manufacturing know-how to produce the products,” Mackie explained. "I had a longtime personal friendship with John and Barry Andrews and knew I could trust QSC to be exactly the right partner."

Design work on the products will be done by both M&W and QSC, while manufacturing, distribution, sales, marketing and technical support will be handled entirely by QSC. The first products are expected to be announced during the first half of 2011.

AMX has announced a technology sharing partnership with Swiss digital signage manufacturer SpinetiX. The collaborative relationship allows both companies to leverage their areas of expertise to develop digital signage advancements. SpinetiX manufactures digital signage players, including the HMP100 Hyper Media Player. AMX is involved in engineering solutions for simplified management of AV and IT devices and networks. Together, the companies plan to create next-generation digital signage solutions that can create multi-sensory, interactive experiences for viewers.

According to Yann Guyonvarc’h, CEO of SpinetiX, "As the digital signage market is really coming into its own, we look to deliver advances from combining the technologies that significantly impact the market and pave the way for a new generation of digital signage capabilities."
By combining digital signage with centralized control, customers will be able to create a total environmental and interactive experience. For example, when users pass near a digital sign, an audio clip can call them to approach. As the viewers step in, lighting changes can draw their attention to the message on the display. Other features, such as a puff of air or a scent spray, can engage all the viewers' senses rather than just sight, as in the case of a typical digital signage installation. All of these actions can be configured to measure and provide data, not only on viewer activity, but also tied to viewer behaviors, such as product purchase.

The National Advertising Division of the Council of Better Business Bureaus has recommended that SMART Technologies Inc. modify or discontinue certain claims made for the SMARTBoard Interactive whiteboard and projector system, but determined that the company can support certain claims. NAD reviewed advertising claims that appeared in materials aimed at internal sales personnel and authorized resellers. The claims at issue were challenged by Epson America, Inc.
Two of the challenged claims were these: “The SMARTBoard interactive whiteboard is optimized for durability and interactivity whereas the BrightLink 450Wi compromises functionality, image quality and ability to write naturally” and “SMARTBoard interactive whiteboards deliver better TCO and ROI when accounting for filter replacements, filter cleaning and total decay costs for the BrightLink 450Wi. One also needs to consider the cost of a suitable projection surface.”

NAD determined that the materials specifically identified the Epson BrightLink 450Wi by brand and model number, compared the two products in head-to-head charts and relied on these comparisons in order to demonstrate the advantages of the SMARTBoard over the BrightLink. For these reasons, NAD concluded that the advertiser’s claims were comparative claims, requiring substantiation.
Regarding the two-part claim “The SMARTBoard interactive whiteboard is optimized for durability and interactivity…the BrightLink 450Wi compromises functionality, image quality and ability to write naturally,” NAD determined that the advertiser provided a reasonable basis in support of the first half of the challenged claim, but recommended the advertiser discontinue the second half of the claim.
With respect to the total cost of operation (TCO) and return on investment (ROI) claims, NAD was not troubled by the advertiser’s use of the cheaper SMARTBoard model in the context of the challenged advertisements. NAD, however, was troubled by the advertiser’s use of the full retail price, rather than the lower “education” price, for BrightLink. NAD recommended that the advertiser modify any TCO or ROI claims that include the cost of replacing the BrightLink pen and batteries to disclose the basis for such claims adequately. With respect to the advertiser’s claims regarding the cost of filter replacement, filter cleaning and total color “decay” for the Epson BrightLink, NAD determined that the advertiser’s evidence was insufficient to support such claims and recommended that they be discontinued.

On June 28, Lowell Manufacturing
filed a complaint in Federal Court against Atlas Sound LP, alleging infringement on U.S. patent no. 7,643,647, which
is directed toward Lowell’s lay-in
tile speaker system.

“We have expended significant resources in developing our product line, including the tile speaker system, and expect competitors to respect U.S. patents,” said John Lowell, President. “Although litigation is not our preference, we remain committed to defending intellectual property rights in court when other avenues have failed.”

AVI-SPL has announced the retirement of AV industry figure and AVI-SPL President Stephenie Scanlon. After her retirement in September, Scanlon plans to remain with the company as a consultant for special projects and initiatives. “Stephenie and I have worked closely to develop strategies that allowed for our great success at AVI and now AVI-SPL,” said Marty Schaffel, Executive Chairman. “We would never have accomplished a fraction of what we have done without Stephenie’s skills,” Schaffel added. “While Stephenie will remain active with this company in the years ahead, her daily presence will be sorely missed.

Scanlon initially joined legacy Audio Visual Innovations (AVI) in 1986, working as a sales representative for the Rental Services division. Her role with the company quickly expanded to include systems sales, human resources, and sales and marketing management. In 1998, Scanlon launched the e-commerce and national telesales division, Projector People/AV Marketplace.
She also led the creation of AVI-SPL University (AVI-U).
Since her promotion to President in 2005, Scanlon has managed the company’s marketing and corporate communications, AVI-SPL's e-commerce and transactional business units, and key supplier relationships. Additionally, she’s been responsible for corporate and sales administration, as well as vertical market-focused sales teams.

Blackmagic Design has acquired all assets of EchoLab Inc., a designer and manufacturer of production switchers. EchoLab has been designing and building production switchers since 1974. This experience has culminated
in the latest ATEM range of production switchers, which include technology for features such as up conversion
on inputs, multilayer SuperSource input, Stinger transitions, and built-in multi-view monitoring, all in a fully digital
M/E style design.

The ATEM production switchers will be demonstrated at the Blackmagic Design IBC 2010 booth #7.B25.
“It’s…exciting to add these products and intellectual property
to the Blackmagic Design family”, said Grant Petty, CEO of Blackmagic Design. “The ATEM switcher is a…creative tool….
Since the acquisition, we have already…expanded the
engineering team working on ATEM. This fresh engineering team, which is a combination of new as well as experienced EchoLab staff, will allow us to move faster in adding new features to the
ATEM product.”

Michael E. Peppel, who previously was top executive of audiovisual sales and services company MCSi Inc., has pleaded guilty to federal criminal felony charges resulting from the Dayton OH-area company’s 2003 implosion, according to a Dayton Daily News report. For the first time since accusations were leveled in a December 2006 federal indictment, Peppel formally admitted responsibility for deliberate criminal acts, among them approving false reports to federal regulators of MCSi’s financial results. The company’s bankruptcy, and ultimate collapse, left shareholders with valueless stock and caused about 1300 employees to lose their jobs, stock and retirement income through MCSi.

Peppel pleaded guilty to three charges: willful false certification of a financial report by a corporate officer, money laundering and conspiracy to commit securities, mail and wire fraud. The final charge accuses Peppel of using the mail and electronic communications to file false financial reports and exchange documents supporting reports of sham transactions. Peppel’s guilty pleas resulted from a plea agreement with government prosecutors. In exchange for the guilty pleas, federal prosecutors agreed to drop the remaining 29 charges he faced. Peppel withdrew his prior pleas of not guilty to all 32 charges.
Although, technically, Peppel could face a prison sentence of
20 to 50 years and millions of dollars in fines, under federal sentencing guidelines and his agreement to enter guilty pleas, he would likely receive considerably less prison term and a fine of approximately $1 million.
In associated news, as reported in our July 2010 News section, Frances Flood, former chief of ClearOne Communications Inc., has been sentenced to four years in federal prison for falsifying company revenue.

XETA Technologies, Inc. www.xeta.com, a provider of converged communications solutions for the enterprise market, has closed its previously announced acquisition of Pyramid Communication Services, Inc. www.pyramidcsi.com, a privately held provider of communications equipment, applications and related services. The acquisition of Pyramid, which has annual revenues in excess of $10 million, is expected to be accretive to earnings in fiscal 2011.

The deal increases the depth of XETA's sales and service presence in a number of geographic markets, and enables XETA and Pyramid to expand product and service offerings to existing and new customers.
"XETA and Pyramid have known each other, competed against each other and worked in partnership for many years," said Greg Forrest, CEO of XETA. "Our customers will continue to benefit from our growth as we enhance and expand our communications design, implementation, maintenance and repair services nationwide."

Pro Sound, Inc. , has announced its acquisition of Pensacola FL-based Advanced Media Design Systems Advanced Media Design Systems Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. The acquisition reflects Pro Sound’s continued expansion in, and commitment to, the Florida and GulfCoast market. Pro Sound, Inc. will now be able to expand efficiently and cost effectively into southern Georgia,

Louisiana, Mississippi and the AlabamaGulfCoast, as well as the Florida panhandle. “We have had a relationship with AMDS for many years and, over time, we realized that the shared company philosophy and geographic location might be a good fit for Pro Sound,” said Rod Sintow, CEO of Pro Sound, Inc. “The new office will position Pro Sound for an increased presence in the south.”

Sintow noted the office will remain based in Pensacola, and will retain its current staff, with Brian Smith continuing to lead the company as Regional Director for the GulfCoast. According to Smith, "It will be business as usual for all AMDS clients and they will continue to enjoy the same one-on-one responsiveness that they have come to expect, with the added resources [that] Pro Sound can provide."

Francisco Partners, a San Francisco CA-based private equity firm focused on investments in technology-based companies, has made a binding offer to Technicolor for the acquisition of the Grass Valley Broadcast & Professional business activities. With nearly $5 billion of capital under management, Francisco Partners is one of the largest technology-focused private equity funds. The firm was founded to pursue structured investments in technology and technology-based companies. Francisco Partner targets investments in private companies, with transaction values ranging from $30 million to $2 billion. Since its inception, Francisco Partners has invested in excess of $4 billion of equity capital in more than 50 technology companies.

The binding offer from Francisco Partners is for 100% ownership of the current Grass Valley Broadcast & Professional business, which would operate as "GrassValley" going forward.

This includes the camera, content repurposing, editing, master control, modular, news production, production automation, routing, servers, storage and switching product lines, including their entire product portfolios, the R&D centers and factories around the world, the sales and systems activities and customer support organization worldwide, as well as the management and administrative support functions dedicated to the business. This business perimeter and associated product lines for which the offer was made by Francisco Partners represent the core of what the market historically knows as GrassValley products.

The Transmission and Headend businesses, which are in the process of being separated from the Grass Valley Broadcast & Professional business, are not included in the offer received. Technicolor will continue the planned divestiture of these businesses separately. These businesses plan to operate individually going forward.

Subject to final agreement, regulatory approval, applicable notification requirements and, when it is requested, the prior consultation of staff representatives, it is expected that the transaction can be completed before the end of 2010.

In exclusive comments to Sound & Communications, Ray Baldock, CTO for GrassValley, said, “We’re all excited about the prospects of new ownership by Francisco Partners. Until the deal closes, it’s very much business as usual for GrassValley, our customers and our partners—but with renewed vigor and confidence now that the offer has been announced. So, in the short term, there is no change to our strategy in regard to the product roadmaps or markets that we serve. It is premature to comment on the longer term until after the deal is fully executed and closes.”

ANSI E1.8 - 2005, Entertainment Technology--Loudspeaker Enclosures Intended for Overhead Suspension—Classification, Manufacture and Structural Testing, and BSR E1.24 - 201x, Entertainment Technology - Dimensional Requirements for Stage Pin Connectors, are available for public review through September 20. The review forms and instructions for both documents, and the draft BSR E1.24 standard, are available at here. ANSI E1.8 is an existing American National Standard being considered for reaffirmation. It can be purchased from The ESTA Foundation at www.estafoundation.org/pubs.htm.

ANSI E1.8 - 2005 is a standard for the structural integrity of loudspeaker enclosures. It is designed to ensure that flown speaker enclosures don't break and rain parts. No substantive changes are planned for the existing standard in this reaffirmation, unless comments from the public suggest that changes are warranted, in which case the standard will be revised.

BSR E1.24 – 201x is a revised version of the existing ANSI E1.24 – 2006. The standard is being revised to clarify its use as a configuration standard giving the mating requirements for male and female pin connectors, contact set-backs from the front face and marking requirements. The electrical reliability and flammability requirements for pin connectors would be covered by other standards, such as UL 498, Attachment Plugs and Receptacles.

Reviewers also are requested to look for protected intellectual property in the documents. ESTA does not intend to adopt any standard that requires the use of protected intellectual property, unless that property is essential for technical reasons, and can be licensed and used by anyone without prejudice or preference for a “reasonable” fee.

VITEC Multimedia has announced the purchase of the Focus Enhancements Systems Group. With this purchase, VITEC has added video acquisition and management products to its lineup, including FS Portable DTE Recorders, ProxSys Media Asset Management solutions, media converters and OEM-ready media hardware and software. According to the company, customers can now look to VITEC throughout the entire video production process, including acquisition, conversion, image processing, MPEG compression, recording, media asset management, streaming, decoding and delivery.

According to Philippe Wetzel, CEO of VITEC Multimedia, “In combination with our recent acquisition of Optibase, this acquisition furthers our objective to provide a complete line of advanced digital video solutions to our customers around the globe….The VITEC R&D division—now with more than 100…engineers—is…positioned to deliver…solutions for a…range of advanced digital video applications—managing the entire video process from source to display.”

“Focus has partnered with VITEC Multimedia in the past and, given our…history, we concluded that sale of Focus’ Systems Group to VITEC was the right decision,” commented Brett Moyer, President and CEO of Focus Enhancements.

BICSI, the association supporting the information technology systems (ITS) industry with information, education and knowledge assessment, signed a friendship agreement with InfoComm International, the nonprofit association serving the professional AV communications industry. The official agreement was signed by Randal A. Lemke, PhD, Executive Director and CEO of InfoComm International, and John D. Clark Jr., CAE, Executive Director and CEO of BICSI. According to the associations, the AV communications industry and the ITS industry intersect in terms of technologies, as well as their complementary roles in the building, communications and IT industries.

To accomplish their shared mission, and for the benefit of the associations’ members who work cooperatively on projects, InfoComm and BICSI have agreed on mutual points of reciprocity, including establishing reciprocal BICSI continuing education credit (CECs) and InfoComm Renewal Units (RUs) and continuing the current government relations cooperative activities and participation in the Green Building Technology Alliance (GBTA). Also included in this friendship agreement is a resolution to update the AV Design Reference Manual (AVDRM). BICSI believes that this relationship will enhance and expand BICSI’s dedicated outreach and also will add significantly to its programs and services.

BICSI currently holds friendship agreements with the Electronic Security Association (ESA)—formerly NBFAA—and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA).

The 1394 Trade Association issued a trio of new specifications focused on video compression, audio and music transmission, and set-top-box functionality. The Trade Association’s USA Set Top Box Test Specification Revision 1.0 defines a set of tests to verify the functionality of the 1394 interface as defined in the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandate for a functional 1394 interface in the STB. The standard defines a set of tests that, when executed, will verify a USA Set Top Box has correctly implemented all the required functionality. Details are available at www.1394ta.org/developers/specifications
/2008003.html.

The revised BT.601 specification on the transport of uncompressed or compressed video addresses the upcoming analog “sunset” directive that applies January 1, 2011, to new Blu-ray products. The “image constraint token” eliminates the potential for pirated unencrypted video. With this revision, BT.601 has been updated with the token for use with Blu-ray players. Data in

the 4:2:2 format of ITU-R BT.601 includes compatible extensions to the format for the higher and lower resolutions of other commonly used video resolutions over 1394. The data formats for the encapsulation of video data are compatible with those specified by IEC 61883-1.

The specification provides a list of compression codes controlled by the 1394 Trade Association and a reference to one video compression codec, minimum, to assure interoperability and bounded implementation complexity. For details, go to www.1394ta.org/developers/specifications/2006020.html.

A new version of the Audio Music Data Transmission Protocol (v 2.2) addresses multichannel audio formats for Blu-Ray. It supports all popular surround configurations, like 5.1 and 7.1, and is extensible to 32 channels of surround. The new version also addresses the analog sunset directive, and describes a protocol for the transmission of audio and music data over IEEE Std 1394-1995 or later, including the transport of IEC 60958 digital format, raw audio samples and MIDI data.

The specification includes excerpts from IEC 61883-6, the improved version of 1394 TA specification "Audio and Music Data Transmission Protocol V1." Details are at www.1394ta.org/developers/speci3fications/2009013.html

InfoComm International has agreed to provide association management services for the Professional Audio Manufacturers Alliance (PAMA). PAMA is the collective voice and forum for the senior executives of the leading branded manufacturers of professional audio products. InfoComm will provide general management and special services, including government relations, market research, meeting planning and more.

"PAMA has been impressed with the responsiveness and long-term strategic vision of InfoComm International," said Paul Gallo. "Their growing international reach and effectiveness in executing long-term programs that benefit the industry, as well as the success of their trade shows, make them an ideal strategic alliance for PAMA."

InfoComm recognizes the trust PAMA has placed with the association, and has stated its dedication to helping PAMA accomplish its goal of building the public face of the audio manufacturing industry. "We have worked alongside PAMA for years and have great respect for the organization Paul Gallo has assembled," said Randal A. Lemke, PhD, Executive Director and CEO, InfoComm International. "With InfoComm-provided management services, PAMA will achieve some economies of scale and provide added value, while lifting the administrative burden from this group, allowing PAMA to fulfill its mission."

Duffy Wilbert, CTS, CAE, InfoComm Senior Vice President of Membership, will serve as PAMA Executive Director. PAMA will continue to maintain its own Board and Officers, who will be responsible for setting strategic direction, while deciding on new goals and initiatives. The new management arrangement is effective July 1.

PLASA, an organization for those working in the live events, entertainment and communication industries worldwide, and ESTA, an association for the entertainment services and technology industries in North America, have voted to merge their two organizations. The announcement follows on the heels of lengthy consultations with both sets of memberships, which concluded recently in a formal vote of members—PLASA via its annual AGM, which took place on June 2 in London, and ESTA via a month-long electronic ballot, which ran throughout May.

In excess of 90% of members from each association voted in support of the move, which will see ESTA and PLASA

integrated to create a single international trade association operating under the PLASA name. The merger will effectively create the first truly international industry-wide membership body of more than 1200 manufacturers, installers, dealers, service providers and consultants working across the entertainment and installation industries. This will also include members of PERA, the former Production Equipment Rental Association, which recently merged with ESTA.

The merger is a continuation of an already-established relationship between the two organizations, which have worked together on a range of initiatives for many years. Both teams will now spend the next six months putting in place the infrastructure behind the merger, the first formal stage of which will be completed by December 2010, allowing the new organization to go live on January 1, 2011.

As part of this, an overarching Governing Body will be established to look after the interests of the membership worldwide and to work closely with Regional Boards for North America and Europe.

Peavey has announced the new focus of its Commercial Audio Division, created to more efficiently manage and support the company’s established brands: MediaMatrix, Crest Audio and Architectural Acoustics. By restructuring the sales and support teams in Europe, Middle East and Africa for this new division, Peavey intends to create an identifiable and integrated group of pro audio brands with its own dedicated support staff and a clear development roadmap for the future.
Peavey has implemented a new management structure to run the organization, which is headed up by Peavey Commercial Audio General Manager Kevin Ivey, based out of Peavey headquarters in Meridian MS, and Clive Roberts, Managing Director of Peavey Europe in Corby, UK. As an example of how these changes will affect Peavey distributors and customers, Ivey stated that the MediaMatrix brand now offers an entire range of control products that allow any designer or contractor with nWare experience to build complex control systems, all without the additional cost or need for outside consultants or contractors.

conservation," said InfoComm International Executive Director and CEO, Randal A. Lemke, PhD. "Because AV systems provide critical operational functions for the owner, an organized approach to commonly accepted planning, design and integration procedures is essential. This standard provides a practical guideline for defining the audiovisual system requirements and a clear accountability structure for the development and execution of the system design components. It provides a consistent reference for the project team, including architects and other trades, from the initial design phase through construction, project completion and building occupancy."

The new organization was presented to EMEA distributors at a two-day distributor meeting that was recently held in Italy. Attendees met the new team and participated in a number of workshops focused on the Commercial Audio Division and its pipeline of products. The workshop structure gave distributors opportunity to spend time with key Peavey team members.

In exclusive comments to Sound & Communications, Ivey said, “While we've had…success with each of [our] brands on their own, the real value and convenience comes when all of the offerings are integrated to work as complete systems. The goal we've set for ourselves is to capture the imagination of the designer and contractor, and to provide them all the tools they need to create whatever systems they conceive." He added, "We have also strengthened our service and support under one umbrella, and synchronized all of our sales and marketing efforts worldwide."

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the InfoComm International Board of Directors have released InfoComm's second standard, ANSI/INFOCOMM 2M-2010 Standard Guide for Audiovisual Systems Design and Coordination Processes. The purpose of this standard is to provide a description of the methods, procedures, tasks and deliverables typically recommended or applied by professionals in audiovisual systems design and integration projects. The Standard enables clients and other design and construction team members to assess whether the responsible parties are providing the expected services.

"Modern AV systems have become increasingly complex and interconnected to other building systems such as network, electrical, HVAC and building automation/energy

conservation," said InfoComm International Executive Director and CEO, Randal A. Lemke, PhD. "Because AV systems provide critical operational functions for the owner, an organized approach to commonly accepted planning, design and integration procedures is essential. This standard provides a practical guideline for defining the audiovisual system requirements and a clear accountability structure for the development and execution of the system design components. It provides a consistent reference for the project team, including architects and other trades, from the initial design phase through construction, project completion and building occupancy."

The Standard Guide for Audiovisual Systems Design and Coordination Processes was developed in an open process with consensus and transparency, in accordance with ANSI requirements. In addition to the Standard, InfoComm has developed an Audiovisual Systems Project Documentation Sample, a 175-page set of sample plans and documents that provides a coordinated example of the unique documentation required for AV systems, clearly illustrating how the audiovisual systems documents relate to documentation from allied professions. The collection also illustrates elements of the Standard Guide for Audiovisual Systems Design and Coordination Processes.

Late during the evening of May 17, only a few days after his 98th birthday, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Fritz Sennheiser, audio pioneer and founder of today’s Sennheiser electronic GmbH & Co. KG, died. Through his company, Prof. Dr. Sennheiser had a strong influence on the development of sound transmission technologies and was instrumental in forging many developments in electroacoustics and transmission

technologies. Under his guidance, the first shotgun microphones and open headphones were created and he oversaw important developments in wireless radio and infrared transmission.

Sennheiser took time to share his knowledge with students, inspiring them with an enthusiasm for audio technology. In 1982, he retired from the management of the company, handing it over to his son, Prof. Dr. sc. techn. Jörg Sennheiser. However, he continued to take a vivid interest in the company he founded in Summer 1945.

Citing the need to fully leverage customers' investments in communications systems and unite their global organizations, five global technology companies have joined to form the Unified Communications Interoperability Forum (UCIF), an alliance dedicated to enabling standards-based, inter-vendor unified communications (UC) interoperability. HP, Juniper Networks, Microsoft, Logitech/LifeSize and Polycom seek to unify the UC ecosystem through this shared mission. The founding members are joined by a growing roster of member companies including Acme Packet, Aspect, AudioCodes, Broadcom, BroadSoft, Brocade, ClearOne, Jabra, Plantronics, RADVISION, Siemens Enterprise Communications and Teliris.

The UCIF works across all unified communications modalities to deliver interoperability based on existing standards. Many enterprises are ready to deploy UC solutions but interoperability concerns have slowed implementation. UCIF-certified products will help reduce implementation risk and complexity and, as a result, grow the worldwide market.According to a February 2009 report, Forrester forecasts that the market for UC within enterprises in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific will reach $14.5 billion in 2015.

Effective immediately,TC Group Americas Inc. (TCGA) is distributing Audica Professional in North, Central and South America, adding the brand to its existing portfolio of Tannoy, Lab.gruppen, TC Electronic, TC-Helicon, Dynaudio Acoustics and Linn Products. TCGA will introduce Audica Professional formally next month at InfoComm in Las Vegas.

Audica Professional manufactures the MICROseries range of electronics and loudspeakers, combining flexible audio solutions for commercial background music, corporate AV and audio communications. According to the company, for applications such as retail outlets, restaurants, hotel public areas and guest rooms, meeting rooms, museums and visitor centers, the MICROseries systems fit neatly below the level serviced by Tannoy's product range. Both TCGA and Audica Professional view the expanded offering of the two brands as very complementary.

"America is key for most pro audio manufacturers," commented Derek West, Audica Professional's Sales and Marketing Director. "When we started the company just over three years ago, we first had to develop the European markets to take our business to a structure and turnover that would enable us to support this substantial market. Despite the economic climate, we have successfully expanded and now work with leading distributors in 38 countries, including all of the major European markets. Entering America is in itself important, but to be doing it in partnership with a true first division distributor like TCGA is very exciting."

"Audica represents an opportunity for TCGA to offer a more complete range of solutions to our diverse base of integrators, contractors and consultants,” commented Marc Bertrand, CEO of TC Group Americas Inc. “It's outstanding product, sounds fantastic, is very discreet visually, is easy to use and is priced very competitively. Audica is an excellent fit for TCGA and we are looking forward to growing a great business."

Electrosonic has acquired The Multimedia Group Ltd, owners of the DRV companies—DRV Integration Ltd, one of Europe’s leading designers and integrators of corporate, medical and educational audiovisual technology, and DRV Support Ltd, a provider of multimedia managed service and maintenance solutions to organizations across the UK. According to the company, the acquisition expands the reach of Electrosonic’s audiovisual solutions and reinforces its focus on growing its service business.

Electrosonic and DRV’s operations, over time, will be combined in a manner that strengthens existing services. Operational synergies will enable the introduction of offerings relevant to customer needs.

According to David Ambrose, Managing Director of Electrosonic Ltd, “The depth of DRV’s Multimedia services and expertise complements our strengths in many ways and will help us expand into new areas. I have a high level of respect for DRV’s achievements in our industry and am confident that the…strengths of both organizations will enhance the way we serve the customer.”

IAVI, a wholesale supplier of audiovisual equipment, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire substantial assets of Visual Solutions Distributing (VSDI), a distributor of high-tech display systems and complete audiovisual solutions. The acquired business will include the addition of experienced sales and engineering staff from VSDI to IAVI’s current certified team. The employee acquisition is intended to better serve the needs of commercial AV dealers and systems integrators seeking specialized solutions. IAVI has formed professional partnerships as direct distributors of some of the industry’s most well-known manufacturers. Product offerings include full line assortments from Sanyo, Panasonic, Mitsubishi, Barco, Sony, InFocus, LG, Viewsonic, Hitachi, Samsung and more.

SMART Technologies has acquired New Zealand-based NextWindow (Next Holdings Limited), a designer and manufacturer of optical touch technology for integration into all-in-one computers, computer displays and large-format screens. The acquisition, according to the company, reinforces SMART’s own investment in optical touch research and development, and combines the two companies’ optical touch patent portfolios. The NextWindow acquisition is expected to have minimal impact on both businesses’ day-to-day operations, offices and company structure. Both SMART and NextWindow are privately held companies.

NextWindow supplies optical touch components to manufacturers of PCs

and other interactive displays. Its touch components are used in PCs and monitors sold by Dell, Hewlett-Packard,Lenovo, Medion, NEC, Samsung and Sony. The acquisition extends SMART’s current presence in the education, business and government sectors into the broader consumer market. SMART is also expanding its business in Asia, where NextWindow has already been active. In the past year, NextWindow has developed an Asian presence in Singapore, Taiwan and Korea.

“SMART serves a range of markets, and it is timely to diversify our revenue base beyond the sectors we already serve,” said Nancy Knowlton, SMART’s CEO. “NextWindow‘s core values, business model, patent portfolio and focus on the consumer market make it an attractive acquisition for us.”

In the transaction, RBC Capital Markets were financial advisors to SMART and Cowen and Company, LLC, were financial advisors to NextWindow.

Avid, Irwindale CA, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Mountain View CA-based Euphonix, manufacturer of large-format digital audio consoles, media controllers and peripherals. With this acquisition, the company reports, Avid will deliver a broad range of audio and video control surfaces and consoles designed to meet the needs of customers ranging from the independent professional to the high-end broadcaster. Avid plans to continue to support and sell both Euphonix control surfaces and Avid’s existing ICON solution, supporting customers with investment in existing hardware.

“This acquisition greatly expands our portfolio to offer customers a complementary set of workflow solutions,” said Gary Greenfield, Avid

Chairman/CEO. “We remain committed to driving interoperability and modularity across a vast ecosystem of Avid and third-party creative hardware and software solutions. And, as audio and video workflows continue to converge, we are now well positioned to deliver control surfaces that work across both audio and video applications, making the content creation process more cost effective and efficient for our customers.”

Avid plans to further develop an open standard protocol that greatly expands the ecosystem of compatibility between the Euphonix control surfaces and a wide range of Avid and third-party audio and video applications, including Media Composer and Pro Tools. For existing Euphonix customers, Avid will continue to support EuCon, the Euphonix high-speed Ethernet protocol that enables its control surfaces to interface with third-party software. The transaction is expected to close at the end of this month.

Effective May 1, 2010, Digigram’s Master Distributor for North and South America will be Point Source Audio (PSA, Novato CA). An audio equipment manufacturer with intimate knowledge and expertise of Digigram products, PSA will take over all aspects of distribution and will be the main point of contact for Digigram’s representatives and resellers.

James Lamb, Digigram’s Business Development Manager for the Americas for the past 10 years, is now part of the leadership at PSA and will help to

ensure a smooth transition and continuity of service. According to Lamb, “We are fully prepared for the transition and our goal is that there will be no disruption in sales, prices or service support for Digigram’s dealers and business partners.”

Philippe Delacroix, President/CEO Digigram, added, “North and South America have always enjoyed a particular focus from our teams. We feel this arrangement allows us to better serve our customers in the future. It will also allow our company to better adapt to fast-changing market conditions.”

HM Electronics Inc. has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Clear-Com Communication Systems, a business unit of The Vitec Group plc. Clear-Com will continue operation as a wholly owned subsidiary of HME, with no changes planned for its product portfolio or its current mission. According to the companies, combining HME’s expertise in wireless with Clear-Com’s strength in TDM Matrix and integrated IP and wireless solutions will offer an expansive selection of communication products and technology for intercom customers with different applications and system requirements.

The acquisition, the company says, will expand HME’s reach into new markets, while allowing the combined companies to leverage synergies in product development and operations.
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“After enjoying substantial growth in all our key sectors over the last decade, it was time for HME to take the next step,” said Chuck Miyahira, CEO of HME. “Clear-Com is [a well-known] brand in the mission-critical intercom marketplace, and brings [considerable] industry knowledge, innovative technology and [strong] business partnerships around the globe. This acquisition will expand the HME business in the pro audio space with a wider range of complementary communication solutions.”

“We see a great fit with the strategy and vision of HME. The efforts of our combined teams will bring added value to our customers and greater opportunities for both companies,” said Matt Danilowicz, who will continue in his role as President of Clear-Com under the new structure within HME. Clear-Com business headquarters remain in Alameda CA. Research and development will continue in Cambridge, UK and Montreal, Canada

Panasonic Solutions Company has launched operations. Joseph M. Taylor, Chairman/CEO of Panasonic Corp. of North America, announced that Rance Poehler will head the newly consolidated Panasonic Solutions Company as President. The B2B-focused company will incorporate the operations of Panasonic Computer Solutions Company, Panasonic Broadcast & Television Systems Company and Panasonic Professional Display Company; it formally launched operations April 1.

Panasonic Solutions Company will deliver content creation, collaboration, information-sharing and decision-support solutions for customers in government, healthcare, education and a variety of commercial enterprises. Products and services within

the Panasonic Solutions portfolio include Panasonic Toughbook mobile computing solutions, projectors and professional displays, and HD video acquisition and production solutions.

“With this consolidation, Panasonic is streamlining its relationships with customers and offering them a broad portfolio approach,” said Taylor. “We believe this change will make Panasonic an easier company with which to do business and enhance our ability to deliver…products, services and support to commercial and government customers.”

Panasonic Solutions Company will deliver an integrated solutions approach based on the company’s experience automating and supporting business processes in vertical markets. The company will adopt a 100% channel approach to its sales.

The Gores Group, a US private equity firm, is considering a merger between its unit Siemens Enterprise Communications and Polycom Inc., the Financial Times said, as reported by Reuters. According to the newspaper, Polycom's discussions with private equity firm Apax Partners, which fell through, had driven Gores to send the company's CEO, Robert Hagerty, a letter requesting a meeting to discuss a potential merger with Siemens Enterprise. On March 23, sources informed Reuters that Apax had not made an offer to buy Polycom. According to industry experts, a merger between Polycom and Siemens Enterprise potentially could cut costs and decrease the sales force.

In related news, although Hewlett-Packard Co. will continue providing support and integration services on

Tandberg to customers who desire Tandberg technology as part of their unified communications and collaboration solution, the company has forged a strategic agreement with Polycom to sell its videoconferencing products.

According to Gartner Inc., the videoconferencing market will expand at a compound annual growth rate of 17.8% between 2008 and 2013, rising from $3.8 billion to reach $8.6 billion. During the past few quarters, Polycom has attempted to expand its business relationship with several OEMS and resellers after Cisco Systems Inc. moved to acquire Tandberg. At present, the deal is awaiting regulatory approval.

According to the companies, the agreement with Polycom and Hewlett-Packard will be mutually beneficial. Hewlett-Packard, which currently sells high-end telepresence services, now may enter the broader videoconferencing market. Polycom will solidify its list of strategic partners. Management expects to recognize revenue from this agreement from the second half of 2010.

Minicom Advanced Systems has announced it would spin out its digital signage division (MDS). The new company simultaneously announced it had raised $6 million to finance its operations independently. The investment, which was led by Jerusalem Venture Partners and joined by Aviv Ventures, will enable the company to broaden its platform from its new offices in Jerusalem's JVP Media Quarter. MDS is a vendor of media distribution solutions for the digital signage and digital out-of-home (DooH) marketplace. According to MDS' CEO, Ronni Guggenheim, "This investment is the natural next step in MDS' lifecycle.

The support of our investors positions us to explore inorganic growth options and to drive the acceleration of our product roadmap toward the establishment of MDS as a full-scale enabling platform in the digital signage market."

Gadi Tirosh, General Partner at JVP, explained, "MDS, with its seasoned leadership, global footprint and strong operating history from within Minicom, is poised to build a broader platform in this growing, but still fragmented, market." JVP typically invests in businesses that apply technology acumen toward the development of new media models and, with its investment in MDS, now enters another segment of traditional media that is on the verge of digitization.

Barco has acquired the products, intellectual property rights and know-how of Element Labs , an LED video systems company based in Santa Clara CA. With a focus on mid-end market requirements in rental, staging and fixed installations, the Element Labs products complement Barco's existing product range. Through this transaction, Barco, according to the company, strengthens its position as a provider of LED, projection, image processing and lighting products. Barco will not book any goodwill on this transaction. “This expands Barco's portfolio for the mid-range markets,” Eric Van Zele, Barco's

President/CEO, commented. “Element Labs' products in these markets have proven their worth…and [complement] Barco's more high-end-oriented market portfolio.”

With immediate effect, the name Element Labs ceases to exist. Structured as an asset sales transaction, Barco obtains all product designs, rights and intellectual property of Element Labs, without assuming the liabilities of the former EL company. The core team of Element Labs in Santa Clara will function as Barco's competence center for creative LED solutions, whereas Barco Kuurne (Belgium) will remain the competence center for tiled LED solutions. Barco will announce its new mid-range LED products in the coming months.

Charlie Wicks, CEO and Founder of Pro Co Sound, passed the morning of March 11. Wicks founded Pro Co Sound in 1974, a provider of audio interface, cables, digital snakes, distribution systems and related products through musical instrument retailers and audio installation professionals. Charlie was a hands-on professional and served as the company's product manager and developer while acting as CEO. We will provide additional information as it becomes available.

Extron Electronics (Anaheim CA) has purchased the Products Engineering and Development Division of Electrosonic Group (Burbank CA), a worldwide AV systems integration and service provider. The Electrosonic Group systems integration and service business is not part of the acquisition and will continue forward as a wholly independent organization. Electrosonic's Products Division is involved with video and graphics over IP encoders and decoders, HD video players and multi-image display processors. It has been operating as a standalone division from the systems integration and service business since February 2009. The acquisition includes all current products designed and manufactured by Electrosonic as well as the IP for the underlying technology. Key staff will join Extron to support current customers and continue the development of this group of products.

According to Andrew Edwards, President of Extron Electronics, "At Extron, we have been in development of a complete line of AV streaming products for over three years and will be announcing additional streaming solutions later this year. We see the Electrosonic products as a great complement to our continually evolving product line." Jim Bowie, President of Electrosonic Group, added: "These current products have developed to the point that we as a systems integrator cannot take them to their full potential. Extron is exactly the right company to take these products forward worldwide. Electrosonic can now concentrate on its main business activity: the design, supply and support of audiovisual systems."

In exclusive comments to Sound & Communications, Joe Da Silva, Director, Product Marketing, Extron, said all products will be rebranded Extron. The transition will commence in April and continue over a period of time. About 30 engineering and support personnel came with the purchase of the brand, half in the US and half in Europe. Finally, he confirmed the purchase does not affect Electrosonic’s systems integration business.

KLOTZ DIGITAL AG has been acquired by UnitedScreens Media AG. In association with the acquisition, the companies also have entered into agreements securing the future financial support of KLOTZ DIGITAL AG. The agreements are intended to contribute to the long-term stabilization of the company, and to ensure its economic growth. Dr. Andreas Gruettner has been appointed as the KLOTZ DIGITAL AG CEO. He is taking over from Thomas Klotz, who has resigned from his position with immediate effect.

Gruettner has been acting as an independent entrepreneur, investing his own private equity, since 1993. Throughout the years, he has acquired some 18 companies, and has taken a multitude of interim management positions. At present, Gruettner is a member of the supervisory board of Gebrueder Rhodius GmbH & Co. KG, a German company with a turnover of €100 million per year and a staff of 400.

KLOTZ DIGITAL will maintain its position in the international broadcast market. Gruettner has identified the company’s main potential for growth in the international PA market. He also wishes to boost KLOTZ’s position in the industry, and to increase its economic efficiency.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has extended the deadline for public comments relating to proposed changes in wireless microphone licensing rules. The comment period, which would have expired on February 22, now closes March 1. The Commission determined that the public interest would be served by a brief extension of time in which to file comments, due to the extensive adverse weather conditions that affected the Washington DC, area and surrounding regions in recent weeks.

The original 30-day comment period was the minimum time required under the Communications Act of 1996. The comment period begins when an FCC action is published in the Federal Register, but can be extended under special circumstances.

For additional information and details, see our website News Update from January 19, as well as “FCC Moves On 700MHz; What’s Next?” in our February issue’s News section.

The digital signage industry is soon to have a new trade association, The Digital Signage Federation. Digital Signage Expo , an international conference summit and trade show dedicated to digital signage, interactive technologies and out-of-home media networks, has announced its willingness to provide initial funding to launch the digital signage trade association this year. It will be an independent 501c non-profit association with legal and professional by-laws and an elected Board of Directors who represent a cross-section of the industry and, therefore, are motivated to act in the industry’s best interest. Association consultant and interim Executive Director, John Johnson, CAE, is a fully qualified association executive with more than 40 years of experience.

Along with other member benefits still being finalized, the Digital Signage Federation will provide a year-round education program for members and a full program of member services, featuring a vertical industry outreach program to bring the digital signage industry’s message to thousands of end users in 2011. Professional association management will support the new Federation and funds will be provided to make projects immediately actionable. DSE has agreed to foot the bill without reimbursement, to create a member-owned forum in which industry leadership can come to the fore.

Angelo Varrone, CEO of Exponation, LLC, which produces Digital Signage Expo, said, “We believe the industry has earned the right to an independent industry association in order to safeguard continued growth in a direction that accurately reflects the industry’s voice. We are committed to support the industry that supports us.”

To get more information on the Digital Signage Federation, go to Booth #1230 or visit www.digitalsignagefederation.org.

Sony Electronics Inc. (Tokyo, Japan) acquired Convergent Media Systems (Alpharetta GA), a provider of video integration solutions to the enterprise market, on January 27. The company has established itself as an expert in digital signage and content distribution systems and will be integrated as a subsidiary into Sony Electronics' broadcast and professional products business. According to John Scarcella, President of Sony's Broadcast and Business Solutions Co., the acquisition of Convergent is a “key building block” of Sony's worldwide business-to-business strategy to accelerate its shift into a solutions-focused organization. Sony will leverage Convergent's resources to provide end-to-end systems solutions and managed services in new and existing professional markets. “With Convergent, we can install and integrate [high-quality technology] together with providing content creation, monitoring and distribution services.” he stated.

The addition of Convergent's resources, including its approximately 150 full-time employees in North America, its network of field service affiliates

and a network operations center, will support Sony's sales and marketing efforts for its key technologies. This acquisition is also expected to strengthen Sony's competitive position in new areas of business, such as providing products and services to corporate, education and government markets, where Convergent already reaches more than one million people.

In exclusive comments to Sound & Communications, Alec Shapiro, Senior VP, Sales and Marketing, Sony Electronics, Broadcast and Production Group, confirmed that there are no immediate plans to restructure either company’s operations or management, and no plans to move Convergent employees to Sony’s Park Ridge NJ location. Shapiro stated, “Sony’s goal is still to work closely with all our systems integrators and other resellers. In recent years, we have expanded our capabilities to include end-to-end solutions, and we’ve been the single point of contact and accountability, or prime contractor, on many solutions-based projects, in traditional broadcast or other markets. We’ve teamed with many of our SI partners on the integration and installation of these systems.”

Shapiro continued, “We don’t plan to change this strategy. The addition of Convergent simply lets us branch out into new applications in digital signage networks, content distribution, asset management and service monitoring. At the same time, we'll still bring in other SIs when it makes sense for the overall project and the customer’s needs.”

Wireless microphones are going to have to vacate the 700MHz band, following a recent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ruling. The Commission has voted to proscribe the sale and distribution of devices, principally wireless microphones, that have been operating in the band. The FCC has allotted a few months—until June 12, 2010—for current users of the offending devices—to vacate the band. However, such users have to get off immediately if it is discovered they are interfering with public safety or commercial users.

“We’re pleased that the FCC has issued a firm transition date for 700MHz wireless equipment,” said Mark Brunner, Senior Director Global Brand Management.

“Complying with this firm date will still be challenging for some users, but we remain committed to making the transition as easy as possible for them under the circumstances. It’s time for one final push to prevent interference with the new users of the spectrum.” Shure has not sold equipment operating in the 700MHz band since 2007, although many of these units remain in service.

Wireless microphones, in-ear monitors and other professional wireless devices will continue to be permitted in the remaining UHF TV band (470-698MHz). Existing 700MHz equipment should be replaced with systems operating in that range or in other parts of the spectrum.

In addition to offering technical guidance and assistance in determining appropriate replacement products, Shure is extending its 700MHz rebate until June 30, 2010, to help customers comply with the FCC order. The rebate offers up to $1000 per system for customers who purchase a new Shure wireless system and send in their old 700MHz system, regardless of who manufactured it.

The MUSIC Group (Hamilton, Bermuda) has signed a deal to acquire the Midas and Klark Teknik brands from Bosch Communications Systems (Fairport NY). The MUSIC Group owns the BEHRINGER brand as well as a number of other associated companies and is managed by Uli Behringer and Michael Deeb. The sale of Midas and Klark Teknik is part of an asset deal that was signed on December 8. The sale is subject to regulatory approval and the terms have not been disclosed.

The MUSIC Group plans to retain all 106

employees currently working at Midas and Klark Teknik. These brands will continue to operate independently with the added resources of the MUSIC Group.

Midas and Klark Teknik have stressed that their distribution companies worldwide will remain in place, and that the brands will not be available through any other channels. “Over the last five years, we have secured the industry’s leading professional audio distribution channels to ensure that Midas and Klark Teknik customers in each territory get the same standard of support that our…team provides in the UK,” said David Cooper, Sales and Marketing Director for Midas. “This deal ensures that our long-term distribution partnerships will get stronger and the investment of Midas' customers is not only protected but enhanced.”