QSC Q-SYS

David Spearman and David Maksa with QSC stopped by for the session of the DDMC and showed us everything that they have to offer.

The Q-SYS Ecosystem is a scalable and flexible software-based platform built around an open IT-friendly ecosystem. The Q-SYS Core is the heart of the Q-SYS Ecosystem, providing a powerful yet simple way to create audio, video, and control solutions for a wide range of applications.

The Q-SYS Core is available in a variety of models to meet the needs of different projects. The Core 110f v2 is a fully integrated audio, video, and control solution for installations with a mixture of analog and network channels. It supports medium-sized rooms through the largest Enterprise scale deployments.

The Q-SYS Core is powered by the Q-SYS OS, a Linux-based operating system that provides a secure and reliable foundation for running audio, video, and control applications. The Q-SYS OS includes a rich set of features, such as:

  • Support for a wide range of audio, video, and control protocols
  • Powerful DSP engine for processing audio and video signals
  • Flexible routing and mixing capabilities
  • Built-in web server for remote management and control

The Q-SYS Core is also equipped with a variety of I/O ports, including analog audio, digital audio, video, and Ethernet. This makes it easy to connect a wide range of devices to the Q-SYS Ecosystem.

The Q-SYS Core is a powerful and versatile solution for audio, video, and control applications. It is ideal for a wide range of projects, from small meeting rooms to large enterprise deployments.

Here are some additional benefits of using the Q-SYS Core:

  • Scalable and flexible: The Q-SYS Core is available in a variety of models to meet the needs of different projects. It can be easily scaled up or down as needed.
  • Open and interoperable: The Q-SYS Ecosystem is built on open standards, making it easy to integrate with other systems.
  • Cloud-manageable: The Q-SYS Core can be managed and controlled from the cloud, making it easy to deploy and maintain systems remotely.

If you are looking for a powerful and flexible solution for audio, video, and control, the Q-SYS Core is a great option.

Need more information? Check out our Panopto recoding!

 

Challenges and Solutions in AV Network Management

 

Creating a well-designed, resilient, and secure AV over IP network that is integrated into the overall technology infrastructure of a university campus requires funding for equipment, training for staff and faculty, and the creation of a diverse and dedicated AV support teams to ensure proper maintenance and operation of the AV systems. All this adds up to a seemingly unsurmountable series of tasks.

In a session of the DDMC, Dr. Joe Way, the Director of Learning Environments at the University of Southern California, along with his senior team of Raj Singh and Chi Lo, discussed the challenges they faced and their approach to resolving them in their own AV network.

 

 

Raj Singh kicked off our session with pointing out initial challenges of managing multicast traffic and traversing between different switches and VLANs for the AV system in USC. They performed a stress test with about 40 rooms to create a playbook for replication and put network and security team guardrails to contain the multicast traffic. Challenges also include securing IP traffic, issues with bandwidth, multicast routing, and multi-MAC exemptions. USC’s approach to network AV is a top-down approach, designing rules and systems first and then propagating down to individual rooms. Data hygiene is important in network-based AV environments, unlike traditional AV where devices can be easily connected and swapped out.

Chi Lo further discussed stress testing a network to ensure it can handle high bandwidth traffic, such as 4K video. Recommend testing all scenarios and maximizing bandwidth to guarantee network readiness for future needs. The importance of direct connection of encoders and decoders to the distribution switcher is emphasized. Firmware updates that allow traversing across multiple fabrics and implementing software based VLAN separation.

The conversation continued with a question about USCs networking approach for distributing AV over IP system. Layer 2 or 3 and why? With a flat layer 2 network and the need for a layer 3 model with edge routing to avoid the whole system going down if a point in the network fails. Raj spoke to the use of router stacks on each floor of the building and keeping the AV system separate to that floor. The approach includes a mix of layer 2 and layer 3 with direct connections to network switches for multicast devices, and a registration and monitoring system for security.

The importance of security measures in the network and how USC went through an approval process with its own network security team to ensure the firewall rules and ports were secured was also discussed in detail. They partnered with the CEO’s office and IT infrastructure early on to get their approval and blessing, which slowed down the process initially but ultimately fast-tracked everything else. They were able to develop policies and tools to monitor the system and detect anomalies. They also used software-based tools to see what type of process is causing issues in the network.

Tracking metrics becomes the priority once an AV over IP network is in place, one on the engineering side and the other on the IT side. They are looking at things like network bandwidth, CPU cycles, packet loss, latency, and connectivity. Exploration of self-healing solutions for issues like cameras going offline, which can be fixed by power cycling. The team is also focused on ensuring that all their devices are running the latest software to enable them to connect to different platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom,and Webex. Compliance and security risks are also taken seriously, and upgrades are made promptly when necessary.

In conclusion, the DDMC session featuring Dr. Joe Way, Raj Singh, and Chi Lo provided valuable insights into the challenges faced and solutions implemented in the AV network at the University of Southern California. From network security and software updates to equipment maintenance and user support, the USC team demonstrated a comprehensive approach to managing a complex AV infrastructure.

While we have summarized some key points from the session, there are many more details to be learned from watching the recorded video. Overall, this session serves as a valuable resource for anyone involved in AV network management, particularly in an educational or large organizational setting.

Wolfvision and The DDMC

 

Welcome to today’s presentation! Here we have WolfVision Cynap Pro! This wireless presentation and collaboration system is available worldwide with an output resolution of up to 4K UHD. It has a Linux operating system and supports devices for wireless mirroring such as iOS, iPadOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Chrome OS and more.

Cynap Pro plays, displays, records and streams all commonly used media at the same time giving you unlimited choice of materials during presentations, lectures, and active learning classes. You can access your data easily via cloud, network drive or from mobile devices – even your laptop is no longer essential – you can simply bring your content on a USB stick.

It also lets you record all your multi-window multimedia content. Everything is captured in high definition and saved internally – perfect for use as part of your online educational program. The included Capture feature pack enables operation as capture agent for Panopto and other compatible video management platforms.

In common with other Cynap systems, the Cynap Pure Pro comes with 4K output resolution, up to 4 window on-screen display and free-of-charge firmware updates and remote management tools. Both customizable and prepared API modules are also available enabling easy room control system integration.

The DDMC had a great turn out for the in-person presentation of WolfVision Cynap Pro. The attendees were impressed by its features such as recording all multi-window multimedia content in high definition which can be saved internally for use in online educational programs.

We were joined by WolfVision’s Innovation and Product Managers Andreas Ganahl and Fabian Hirschauer for presentation of WolfVision solutions and sneak-peak at upcoming roadmap! They presented WolfVision solutions that are designed to enhance collaboration in meeting rooms, classrooms or lecture halls.

I would like to extend a big THANK YOU to the Multimedia Team at the Fuqua School of Business for their hospitality!

That’s it folks! Check out our Panopto recording for more details!

Video Render Tests on Macbook Pro – M2 Max Chip

Macbook Pro with M2 Max ChipWith our team due for an upgrade to our video editing workstations, we decided to try out the new MacBook Pro and compare it to our current ~2019 iMacs. Individual specs on each tested computer are listed below:

MacBook Pro Premiere/Final Cut exports tested with
MacBook Pro with M2 Max Chip
Base CPU clock speed – 3.5 GHz
12-Core CPU
38-Core GPU
96GB Unified Memory
16-core Neural Engine

iMac Premiere exports tested with:
iMac (Retina 5K, 27-inch 2019)
Processor – 3.6 GHz 8-Core Intel Core i9
Memory – 64GB 2667 MHz DDR4
Graphics – Radeon Pro 580X 8 GB

iMac Final Cut exports tested with:
iMac (Retina 5k< 27-inch, 2020)
Processor – 3.6 GHz 10-core Intel Core i9
Memory – 64GB 2667 MHz DDR4
Graphics – AMD Radeon Pro 5700 8 GB

Though the difference in RAM makes the comparison a bit apples and oranges, we found the overall performance to be a significant improvement above that caveat. Our primary evaluation criteria was through render times from both Final Cut Pro X and Adobe Premiere Pro..

In each scenario, we exported the same 10-minute long 4K clip to a 1080p file with H.264 codec.

Project file is on an external hard drive
Exporting from FCPX to Desktop
MacBook – 3:23
iMac – 7:12

Exporting from Premiere to Hard Drive
MacBook – 1:31
iMac – 5:25

Project is on the network attached storage
Exporting from FCPX to Desktop
MacBook – 5:57
iMac – 7:12

Exporting from Premiere to NAS
MacBook – 2:10
iMac – 4:04

Taking a look at the Activity Monitor. We found the following difference in CPU/GPU performance while exporting from Premiere on network attached storage:

MacBook
CPU% average was around 145%
GPU% average was around 85%

iMac
CPU% average was around 190%
GPU% average was around 98%

Sony Electronics

Sony brought some of the industry’s leading technology to Duke for members of the Duke community to view, touch and explore at the Bryan Center Studios for a limited time.

The event was open to all faculty and staff at Duke University, Duke Health and members of the Durham community.

Electronics include:

  • Crystal C-Series LED Video Wall — Micro LED display and video wall that uses cutting-edge picture-processing technologies to allow you to create extraordinary, large-scale, “ultra-real” visual experiences with clarity, contrast, and color.
    • Follow this link to the start of the CLED Demo
  • Sony FX9 video camera – A full-frame 6K sensor camera with Fast Hybrid AF, Dual Base ISO, and S-Cinetone™ color science, produces cinematic picture quality.
  • PTZ and Remote Cameras – Built for any space, these cameras and accessories use advanced technologies for remote lectures, meetings and presentations and can integrate easily into most standard systems with simple installation.
  • NUCLeUS – A scalable digital imaging platform for hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers, it streamlines the management and distribution of video content – plus still images and patient data.

Access the entire video here: Sony DDMC

Wolfvision CYNAP Pro

App-free dongle-free screen sharing!

Connect and share your screen using the wireless technology that’s built into your own mobile device. Our wireless BYOD solutions suit all iOS, iPadOS, Android, Chrome OS, Windows and Mac devices – with full support for AirPlay, Chromecast, and Miracast screen mirroring.

Record your content

Cynap Pro lets you record all your multi-window, multimedia content. Everything is captured in high definition and saved internally – perfect for use as part of your online educational program. The included Capture feature pack enables operation as capture agent for Panopto, and other compatible video management platforms.

Multi-platform web conferencing

Cynap Pro‘s multi-platform web conferencing solution runs directly on the device itself, and is designed to solve many of the issues most commonly experienced with BYOM web conferencing systems.

Complex multi-step setup, and bandwidth issues are eliminated, and Zoom, MS Teams or WebRTC-based wireless conferencing sessions are easily started and controlled, using a simple workflow, from a touchscreen, or any laptop, smartphone, or tablet.

Stream & record to mobile

Our unique vSolution App for iOS, iPadOS, Android, and Windows lets your audiences receive and record a live stream of presentation or lecture content from Cynap Pro onto their own smartphones and tablets.

Freedom to present

Cynap Pro plays, displays, records, and streams all commonly used media at the same time, giving you unlimited choice of materials during presentations, lectures, and active learning classes.

Access your data easily via cloud, network drive or from mobile devices – even your laptop is no longer essential – you can simply bring your content on a USB stick, or download it directly from the cloud!

Annotate over any open window

Add to your content material using our built-in annotation features – or note down your ideas using the digital whiteboard, and save the output of both for future use.

If you are looking for an all-in-one with only needing to add audio processing? The CYNAP line of products is a good way to go.

A New Kind of DDMC

Bryan Center Studio 1

We had great attendance for this DDMC meeting! Featuring a lineup of big hitters and an all-star cast in the gallery at Studio 1 made for a great event. A big thanks to everyone for your support!

Richard Mitchell made his return to the DDMC, wearing a well fitted Biamp Vest, to give us a rundown of the new Parle’ VCB2500 video bar that is shipping! He also provided overviews of Biamp’s new AV control product line, Video conference cameras, Devio conferencing, and an easy to use classroom designer. The Biamp product line does an excellent job of covering all of your educational technology needs.

Michael Greene and Chris Lorch from Duke Learning Innovation discussed the impact of digital learning technologies on the classroom and other learning environments and showed how active learning helps students think, create, discuss and solve problems rather than passively sitting in a class receiving information. They highlighted the use of whiteboarding to promote brainstorming and group work. Reducing the need for podiums, providing good sound and visuals, and promoting more instructor interaction with online students are all components that should be considered in this new landscape of HyFlex teaching at Duke University. DLI is Duke’s resource for faculty and staff to tap into the opportunities that hybrid teaching tools can provide.

John Ballinger and Tim Hunnicutt with Panasonic brought an impressive array of PTZ cameras, video switchers and auto-tracking technologies to studio 1. John spent some time featuring Panasonic’s auto-tracking, which uses high-performance motion detection and high-accuracy facial recognition. These features allow precise tracking of the subject with minimal tracking errors, regardless of the direction the person is facing, even when the lecturer has his/her back to the camera. In addition, since this function provides detection/tracking with streaming video from the camera, the video capture board typically needed for capture on a PC is no longer required. This reduces the processing load for video capture, thereby eliminating the need for a high-performance PC. I also want to note the new PressIT 360, an easy to use plug and play conferencing camera ideally suited for small collaboration spaces.

Finally, our own Stephen Toback presented a topic near and dear to his heart: How to build a 4k studio for under $4,000. Knowing that the Bryan Center Studios will not always be convenient or the right place to shoot your video, Stephen put together a concise list of features your 4k studio should have in order to be successful. Room size, shape, acoustics, and lighting should all be considered before purchasing cameras and microphones. Stephen’s 4k studio equipment list details everything you need to outfit a studio of your own.

 

For more detailed information, please check out our Panopto recording of this event.

 

Crestron

We had great turnout for our July 27th DDMC presentation with the kind folks at Crestron Electronics. Representatives Ryan Bernt and Greg Coddington showed up with a wealth of information. New and improved online and in person training, camera tracking, BYOD product updates, and cloud based control platforms.

 

Be sure to check out the recording for more details!

Crestron at the DDMC

Extron Electronics

Mark Bednarcik & Don Mitchell with Extron Electronics dropped into the DDMC and gave us a run down on some of the powerful tools that Extron has available for Collaboration spaces, Conference Rooms, and Lecture Halls. Also highlighting control and their new Virtual Control platform that will allow control of up to 50 rooms on one box.

Mark and Don pointed out the expansive online and in-person training that Extron offers. Worth checking out! Especially if your are in need of CTS or BICSI continuing education credits.

If you would like to review the meeting please follow this link to the DDMC Panopto to this video!

Panasonic Education Solutions

The DDMC met with our good friends at Panasonic this afternoon. All of us know they provide high quality classroom projectors. We just now discovered is they have a “pimp my projector” option with custom vinyl wraps! Custom Graphic/Logo/Colors. A 5-10 day Business day turnaround will get you stylin n’ profilin before the fall semester!

Also new to the Panasonic line of education products is their entry into wireless microphones with (11) new products that aim to be intuitive to use, lightweight and secure. Designed for lecture halls, auditoriums, the system has the flexibility to deliver excellent quality in spaces small too large.

New and notable is the Panasonic Lecture Capture & Auto – Tracking system. An all-in-one system to automatically track, record and stream video. Delivering a high quality, rich multi-source viewing experience. Co-developed & certified with Seneca and Panaopto for plug and play capabilities that should make for easy integration into existing AV systems. I have requested a (4) camera on site demo! So, stay tuned for further developments.

Check into our Zoom call here