The Opportunity

With nearly 2,000 employees, the Ministry of Education is one of New Zealand’s largest government agencies, overseeing the nation’s education system. To accommodate their large staff with a professional and modern work environment, the Ministry of Education recently moved their headquarters to Mātauranga House, a previously occupied 12-story office building located at 33 Bowen Street. In order to distribute a wide range of audio and video sources to various destinations throughout the building, officials hired Futureworks to install a premium corporate AV control solution. Futureworks selected an array of AMX networked AV solutions to facilitate intuitive control over the sophisticated AV system.

“We required an AV system that could be integrated with our existing meeting room technologies,” said a spokesperson at New Zealand Ministry of Education. “The AMX networked AV system provided by Futureworks satisfied all our requirements, and its centralised platform makes it very easy for us to access, maintain and upgrade the system from anywhere in the building.”

The Ministry of Education’s AV platform is based on the centralised architecture of AMX’s Enova DGX 100 Series, which is deployed on the building’s existing network and integrated directly with the room booking system. Futureworks installed Enova DGX3200 and DGX6400 digital media switchers to manage and distribute a wide range of video and audio signals in analogue and digital formats. A comprehensive set of Enova DGX hot-swappable boards are utilised in conjunction with DGX transmitters and receivers to provide an end-to-end distribution network over shielded cable.

“The Ministry of Education asked us to supply a sophisticated AV solution to support their meeting room technologies,” said a spokesperson, Futureworks. “We chose AMX systems because they are end-to-end solutions that support a wide range of distribution formats, regardless of the application or distance between sources and destinations.”

Futureworks also included a NetLinx NX Integrated Controller to enable management of all sources and displays throughout the building. Modero MSD-701L and MST-701 touch panels offer intuitive local control of numerous analogue and digital inputs in conference rooms, meeting rooms and other spaces.

Additionally, Futureworks outfitted the meeting rooms with NMX-VCC-1000 cameras and MET-6NE Control Keypad to support high-quality video conferencing applications. Finally, the new AV system can be controlled from a single interface utilizing AMX Resource Management Suite Enterprise software, which improves the efficiency of meeting spaces and technology by allowing users to schedule meeting spaces and pre-configure room technologies for upcoming meetings.

“It’s an honour to be associated with the New Zealand Ministry of Education and for delivering technology that facilitates ideal meeting spaces,” said Ramesh Jayaraman, VP & GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “We would like to thank Futureworks and our New Zealand partners for trusting AMX to create seamlessly integrated workspaces, inspiring people to come together and collaborate with efficiency.”

Two models are available, including a presentation kit targeting simple presentation applications and a conferencing kit that adds USB 2.0 transport and switching for use in web conferencing environments.

The AMX CT Series kits deliver added value and flexibility to conferencing and presentation solutions by providing a single, simple to implement solution that offers switching and connectivity where you need it along with unified control of both the transmitter and receiver—all over a single category cable.

“With the continued proliferation of collaboration environments in corporate and education, our customers have been seeking a solution for video switching and transport in rooms with both installed and BYOD sources,” explains Paul Krizan, Corporate Solutions Manager at HARMAN Professional Solutions. “These new connectivity kits provide a solution that is easy to order, design, and implement.”

“We are very excited to introduce the new AMX CT Series to the market,” says Shaun Robinson, VP, Enterprise Solutions at HARMAN Professional Solutions. “Leveraging the economies of scale within the HARMAN supply chain, we are now able to deliver tremendous value to our customers by providing the latest in video switching technology at very competitive pricing. In addition, we are providing the best of both worlds: simple-to-install solutions with auto-switching and no programming required—but solutions that are also NetLinx Native for easy integration into a controlled application.”

Availability

JPRO has CTC and CTP stock to demo today. To learn more about the AMX CT Series contact JPRO today.

Nestled in Henderson Valley in Western Auckland, Whoa! Studios is a state-of-the-art film studio and theatre specialising in live action, puppetry and miniatures. Its flagship offering is an original, world class, live show based on the characters and sets of Custard’s World – adapted for stage from a script by Bob Baker, BAFTA award winning screenwriter of Wallace & Gromit.

Whoa’s owner David Sutherland wanted to create an exciting family destination in Auckland with unforgettable live experiences. He says “It started out as an idea to do something fun for children and for families, to do something that was different to what they had engaged with before. We wanted to try and do something that was magical.”

David’s vision has resulted in a world class facility with a children’s adventure playground, a modern family restaurant and hi-tech studio and theatre facilities. In order to realise this vision and create a truly immersive experience alongside the mix of puppets, digital effects and live action from within the main stage movie set, leading world class AV technologies were needed.

World Class meant that one of New Zealand’s top integration companies, ITAV was called upon to knit together this immersive experience that would create lasting memories. Their brief was clear: sound quality, flexibility and ease of use.

Consultant and ITAV Integrator Paul Ivory had no doubts when it came to selecting his team that would partner on this project. Paul declares “I called on the best of the best in all different aspects of this project.”

Leading AV equipment supplier and specialists in Sound System and Video Distribution design JPRO were selected because of their far-reaching support, emphasis on relationship, as well as audio and product knowledge base.

AMX specialist Quentin White designed the video and switching distribution system. Projector mapping was suggested in conjunction with specialist lighting to create themes for the shows. AMX touch panels control scene changes, projectors and video monitors. This resulted in a unique part of the delivery and a main component now written into all live shows.

JPRO Sales Director and Audio Designer Paul Edlin designed the fully integrated networked audio system for the theatre and restaurant. BSS Soundweb and Soundcraft Vi3000 are an integral part of the audio distribution and essentially, the heart of the theatre system.

The primary objective was to keep as much of the Audio Signal in the digital domain as possible. Audio was passed in and out of the Vi3000 via Dante, into the BSS BLU-806 signal processor before reaching the Crown DCi Amplifiers that powered the JBL CBT-70J Array speakers and eight Zones such as the Green Room and back of stage.

Audio outputs for the live film studio and theatre were configured in 7.1 and 5.1 respectively. This was not only for a surround sound effect, but for localised sources as puppets came in from different locations around the room.

For the theatre, the first choice of speakers for Paul Ivory was always going to be the JBL CBT 70’s. “They are great for speech and music” he says, “the array of the speakers is perfect for having clear sound for the front and back end of the room; there was nothing else that came close to that decision.”

The new AKG MicroLite HC81 headworn microphones were selected as they are comfortable and lightweight to wear for the actors while the AKG wireless microphone technology used has a track record of solid reliability.

Through clever configuration and use of the Soundcraft VISI App, from an operator’s point of view the Soundcraft Vi3000 mixing console provided the central control point for all performance areas.

Paul Edlin from JPRO explains the use of the VISI integration: “Vi3000 controls all the actors and playback audio within the main theatre and on the second layer it controls audio in the second theatre.” This resulted in a cost saving of an additional mixing surface. Paul continues, “So the main theatre can be running a show and the second theatre can simultaneously run another show with audio controlled via the VISI iPad App.”

The approach to the AV design for the restaurant and mezzanine areas is equally as ingenious, with exceptional sound quality produced by the unobtrusive JBL Pendant speakers.

“You can walk throughout the café, into the parent’s area, toilets, the shop into the entrance way and the sound is all even, it is not overbearing in any area” states ITAV’s Paul Ivory.

All AV technologies such as switching on projectors and lowering screens, operating lights and adjusting volume are controlled on a touch panel system via an automated process. Third party systems control is made simple and easy to execute with Audio Architect and AMX seamlessly integrating together.

Through effective communication, simplistic AV and sound system design and leading World Class products from Harman Professional, the teams from ITAV and JPRO were able to put together a solution that will provide simplistic user operation for staff, and unforgettable live experiences for families.

David Sutherland concludes “We wanted to exceed expectations. I didn’t think it would be as good as this result – and that makes it all worthwhile.”

The DVX-3266-4K offers four HDMI inputs, four HDBT inputs and four HDMI scaled outputs, while the DVX-2265-4K offers four HDMI inputs, two HDBT inputs and two HDMI scaled outputs. Both new DVX presentation switchers are fully compatible with existing Enova DGX copper 4K60 transmitters and receivers, allowing an easy path for users to upgrade their systems.

“As AV technology continues to evolve rapidly, facility owners need flexible and scalable systems that enable the highest video resolution and audio fidelity,” said Jamie Trader, Vice President, Video & Control, HARMAN Professional Solutions. “The new DVX all-in-one presentation switchers will dramatically simplify AV control and distribution in medium-sized and large conference rooms, boardrooms, classrooms, lecture halls and auditoriums. With ultra-high resolution 4K60 video, legendary HARMAN audio quality, flexible I/O options and an intuitive user interface, DVX switchers provide more power and flexibility than ever before.”

New DVX all-in-one presentation switchers bring 4K60 4:4:4 capabilities to the DVX family, providing superior video resolution for critical viewing applications where fidelity is crucial. Compatible with HDMI 2.0 and DXLink 4K60 copper transmitters and receivers, new DVX presentation switchers enable 4K60 video distribution over long distances using a standard Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable. With HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 support, users can realize the full potential of their source and display devices, resulting in the highest possible video quality.

Models

DVX-2265-4K

6×2+1 4K60 4:4:4 All-In-One Presentation Switcher (4 HDMI Inputs, 2 DXLink-4K60 Inputs)

DVX-3266-4K

8×4+2 4K60 4:4:4 All-In-One Presentation Switcher (4 HDMI Inputs, 4 DXLink-4K60 Inputs)

Availability

AMX is supported and distributed in NZ by JPRO. DVX-4K60 presentation switchers are now available in New Zealand.

JPRO has a long and successful history of association with HARMAN, representing professional audio brands JBL, BSS, Crown, Soundcraft among others for more than 30 years in New Zealand. The company’s rich history has resulted in a reputation for exceptional customer service, design support and technical expertise which is showcased in a myriad of projects throughout the country.

“JPRO’s 30-year history with Harman Professional has been cemented further with the announcement today,” says Bruce Gray, JPRO owner and director. “We are all honoured and thrilled to be adding AMX, a brand with its own rich history, superior quality and leading-edge products, to our current suite of Harman Professional Audio brands.”

JPRO operates a highly successful AVC training program, with a nationwide network of system integrators and resellers providing on-the-ground localised support. With the expansion of its portfolio to include the complete range of AMX video control solutions and SVSI Networked AV solutions, the company will appoint specialists that will provide the best technical expertise and solutions in the New Zealand market.

Paul Edlin, JPRO Sales Director adds “Our Team is looking forward to the opportunity of taking the full Harman AVC suite of products to market and showcase the exceptional experiences this can offer. New Zealand’s System Integrators and Consultants are at the forefront of innovation in the AVC market and therefore to fully support them we will be expanding our team to drive this new venture. The right staff are crucial to the continuity of service and support that our customers expect from JPRO.”

“We are excited to expand our partnership with JPRO and extend our distribution reach in New Zealand.This is aimed at enhancing access to HARMAN products and solutions across verticals, focusing on solutions-driven approach and elevating customer experience,” said Ramesh Jayaraman, VP and GM, HARMAN Professional Solutions, APAC. “JPRO brings 30 years of experience serving the New Zealand market and we look forward to our expanded collaboration with JPRO and are confident their experience and in-depth knowledge will help us deliver the latest and most relevant technology solutions to our customers.”

Support, warranty and repair of AMX and SVSI products in New Zealand will transition to JPRO with immediate effect. Warranty terms and inclusions will not be affected.

Maritime NZ has a vital role in national security. Its purpose is to ensure that all maritime activities are carried out safely, with minimal impact on the environment and the nation’s security. The Risk Coordination Centre in New Zealand (RCCNZ) provides search and rescue services to the third largest area in the world, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

While planning the construction of a new Risk Coordination Centre, Maritime NZ reached out to New Era (formerly Asnet) for help relocating their existing AV system to the new facility. However, after evaluating the risks involved with moving an aged system, they quickly decided to upgrade to a more modern, flexible technology solution that could adapt to their unique needs. New Era selected an AMX SVSI Networked AV solution — one of the first of its type to be deployed in New Zealand.

“Looking at the current Risk Coordination Centre, we realised that we needed a new system that could adapt to the future developments of Maritime NZ, and the AMX SVSI system was the best possible solution for our needs,” said Paul Thompson, Account Manager, Asnet Technologies. “We needed the ability to switch any input to any output across their environment. The AMX SVSI solution was able to provide us with the flexibility, functionality, and scalability we needed to get the job done.”

Maritime NZ is responsible for land, air and sea rescue coordination — which meant the installation of the new AV system needed to be completed quickly to prevent disruption in operations. Leveraging SVSI’s simple installation the Asnet team took only three days to deploy the solution. This worked within the tight timeframe, ensuring that the risk coordination centre was never offline.

“Our 10-year old video solution was obsolete — and an AV solution is critical for us,” said Aaron Mikoz, CIO Maritime NZ. “With the new AMX SVSI solution, we can now work faster, smarter and safer. During search-and-rescue operations, we can see key information displayed on the screen, providing us with a better understanding of the situation without having to depend on complicated briefings.”

New Era installed AMX touch panels with integrated controllers to integrate the audio system with other AV devices and the AMX N1000 Video Over IP Encoder/Decoders as part of a full AV solution. To be able to address larger groups of people, JBL surface mount and pendant speakers were positioned to reduce audio spill into other areas. The system allows the new and improved RCCNZ to distribute media leveraging common network switches in any size and configuration.

“To be associated with Maritime NZ and to provide effective technologies in AV and control products is a privilege for Harman Professional Solutions,” said Ramesh Jayaraman, VP & GM Harman Professional Solutions, APAC. “We would like to thank New Era (formerly Asnet Technologies) for successfully completing this project within a tight schedule of three days, ensuring zero downtime. To be able to implement mission-critical AV applications for a defence agency is an absolute honour.”

Vodafone has officially opened its workplace of the future in Smales Farm – a fully enabled smart building at the heart of a world-leading innovative, sustainable and interactive precinct designed to foster business and community growth.  The building has 6 levels with over 70 meeting rooms and can accommodate up to 2000 people in any one day.

And Vodafone, with its love of all things tech, has installed the best tech available to achieve these goals.  JPRO is extremely proud to have products from our portfolio of professional AVC range included in this stat-of-the-art building.

Craig Hill the consultant for this impressive install comments “The solution is entirely network based, all video, audio and control, is routed and distributed, using the Vodafone’s Cisco switch infrastructure and Cat.6 structured cabling. This is currently the largest AV over IP solution of its type in the southern hemisphere, which includes, meeting rooms, IPTV, digital signage, 3 x operations centres, a multi-room events space and public cafe area with the largest OLED video wall in NZ.”

AV Products Installed at Vodafone Innov8 Auckland

Speakers:

• JBL Intellivox DSX280
• JBL SRX818SP
• JBL Control 47LP

Networked Video:

• AMX N1000 Encoders and Decoders
• AMX NX-2200 Netlinx Control
• AMX N1510 Windowing Processor
• AMX N2400 Encoders and Decoders
• AMX RMS Room Scheduling

Video Control:

• AMX MD-702 Modero Wall Mount Touch Panel
• AMX MD-1002 Modero Wall Mount Touch Panel
• AMX MT-702 Modero Tabletop Touch Panel
• AMX MT-1002 Modero Tabletop Touch Panel