QMOD The Next Generation Features: AC3, Captioning, HD RF, IPTV, Flex Encoding, Scaling Upgrade, 2-Channel Options. QMOD’s debut five years ago changed the rules for HDTV applications. For the first time, sites could afford to distribute HD video, HD-SDI, and digital signage over their in-house RF system. No more science fair integration; juggling multiple, expensive components to deliver each HD cable channel – everything was already inside, so installation became a matter of simply connecting a source and setting the channel. Quality wasn’t sacrificed, either, as QMOD employs broadcast-quality encoding.

Over the years, we listened to our customers’ ideas, worked with their integration issues, and began a design process to address them all. The result is the next QMOD generation, a statement that the QMOD revolution is ongoing and as disruptive as before.

Based on totally new architecture, these units have evolved by the power of two. New QMOD 1.5 modulators start at single-channel operation and price, yet can be upgraded to two channels by entering an optional software key, while QMOD 2 products start out with two channels.

In addition, the modulators support two video streams (RF and IP), two audio formats (AC-3 and AES stereo), two captioning options (708/608 and Line 21), and two MTS language programs for each channel. They all mount two-across in one rack space.

All units feature unique flex encoding – the ability to convert non-ATSC video formats into a QAM cable channel. For example, some houses of worship want to use consumer HD cameras that use non-broadcast 60 Hz refresh rates, with some studios moving to 3G HD-SDI. While conventional SDI modulators cannot accept those signals, the new QMODs can. In addition, all QMODs will up-convert SD video to HD, and an optional upgrade key enables a full range of up- and down-conversion and scaling features.

GigE Ethernet is included in all QMODs, supporting IPTV streaming, IP control and onboard Web pages for setup, operation, monitoring and firmware updates, while screw terminals allow control for EAS broadcast. In addition, the new architecture offers future-proof operation that is open to adding any imaginable encoding methods and features from future firmware updates.

• The QMOD-SDI1.5 features HD-SDI (up to 3G), Component, and Composite/CC inputs, and supports SDI embedded, digital coax, optical and stereo audio.
• Designed for general and digital signage applications, the QMOD-HDMI1.5 includes HDMI (non-HDCP), RGBHV/Component inputs. Dual Composite/CC, stereo and coax audio inputs support single and dual-channel modes of operation. The RGBHV/Component input will support 1080p/720p 60 Hz video from PCs or consumer HD cameras; additional resolutions, scaling and positioning are available with the optional scaling upgrade key.
• The QMOD-YPB2 HDTV Modulator delivers cost-effective dual-channel distribution of Component cable and satellite TV sources, supported by dual Component, Composite/CC, stereo and coax audio inputs.

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices are: QMOD-SDI1.5, $2,520, QMOD-HDMI1.5 $1,990 and QMOD-YPB2 $2,225. Software upgrades to two channels and the addition of scaling to the QMOD-HDMI1.5 are available for a nominal charge.

The post QMOD: Next Generation appeared first on Contemporary Research.

ODDS FAVOR MORE VIDEO EXPANSION AT THE NEW MARYLAND LIVE! CASINO

Hanover, MD—Gambling is a numbers game, and the numbers at Maryland Live! Casino definitely boost the house odds. Across the 160,000-square-foot casino floor and beyond into dining and entertainment venues, developers The Cordish Companies show their cards with 665 video displays and 80 sources distributed as digital cable Tv channels. And that’s just the foundation of a system that seems to grow with each pull of a one-armed bandit.

The Cordish Companies has developed a reputation for being proponents of video technology across its various properties nationwide, so Av systems design consultant Shannon Jelenek had an inclination that “video was going to be a very strong component to this build.” Fortunately, having recently completed work on some smaller casinos, he knew one thing for certain: “A traditional point-to-point router for a property this size and possible expansion would limit the overall system.”

As such, goals for the Av design were to provide the client with all the flair they needed for opening, while simultaneously preparing for what they wanted down the road “without major expansion expenses and re-work,” Jelenek said.

Providing the seemingly unending ability to continuously add displays is a rF-based distribution system designed in a star configuration from two amplification points to cover the building.

To maximize the trunked tap and branch distribution scheme inherent to rF, the experts at Contemporary research were called in. They worked with Av integrator AvI-SPL, along with vendors Tv One, which provided its COrIO Masters for the project, and display provider Lg Electronics to ensure seamless integration over the course of a compressed installation schedule. There are more than 600 More than 100 LG displays appear to leap off a fragmented in-wall video wall display and scatter throughout the ceiling across a wide space in the R Bar at Maryland Live! Casino. Contemporary research ICC1-232s controlling Lg Tvs in tandem with Contemporary research ICE-hE headend network controllers. Additionally, Contemporary research provided QMOD digital channel modulators, ICC2-ATSC+ hD tuner controllers, and QCA9-33 combiners throughout.

This approach was especially beneficial, as some of the LCDs would be dedicated to visual content related to specific games on the floor, while others displayed digital signage and entertainment content. “With an rF cable system it is easy and inexpensive to expand the number of outputs (just add Tvs) and sources (just add channel modulators),” observed Scott hetzler, president and chief engineer for Contemporary research, who did a number of site visits himself to ensure the success of the project. “Any Tv can be tuned to any channel and thus watch any source—signage content from a media player or from a live satellite/ cable channel). Control is over the same rF cable system and so there are no other wires to run.”

In addition to displays mounted via Chief Manufacturing products throughout the complex, there are also a variety of video wall configurations, most notably in the r Bar, where more than 100 Lg displays appear to leap off a fragmented in-wall display and scatter throughout the ceiling across a wide space. AMX control allows an easy shift between digital signage and entertainment or sports feeds on the exploded array.

On the audio side, Martin Audio ceiling speakers were used throughout, with distribution and processing handled by BSS Soundweb London via BLu Link to Crown amplifiers. “This saved in a bunch of DSP as well as wiring and having to manage extremely complex switching matrixes,” Jelenek noted.

not to be overlooked is the top-notch concert venue built into the mix. ram’s head Live features a Martin Audio Blackline system, Digidesign SC48 console, Mitsubishi FD630u projector, and a full kit of microphones from Lectrosonics, Shure, Akg, beyerdynamic, and Sennheiser.

Kirsten Nelson is the editor of SCN. See photos of ram’s head Live concerts at avnetwork.com/scn/0613.



The post Maryland Live! appeared first on Contemporary Research.

Sources

• Two Component inputs; 1080i, 720p, 480p, 480i
• Two Composite/CC video inputs for encoding, captioning, or EAS use
• Two sets of stereo and SPIDF coax audio inputs

Encoding

• Creates a high-definition 720p/1080i MPEG-2 stream for broadcast
• Accepts stereo, PCM, or pass-through AC-3 audio, can create two MTS sub-channels for each input, supporting two languages each
• Includes captioning from Line 21 data on composite video inputs
• Flex encoding compensates for slightly off-frequency video, or 60/30 Hz sources such as consumer HD cameras

Output

• Delivers a fully agile QAM 64/256 digital cable channel 2-135
• Up to 270 HD Programs/Channels per system
• Streams IPTV from GigE Ethernet port
• Distributes channel over an on-site broadband cable system with adjustable output level to 29 dBmV, compatible with all cable format broadband systems

Operation

• Sets up with front-panel buttons and easy to use menus, including inputs, encoding, channel, and RF options.
  Onboard Web page for setup and monitoring
• Control with IP Telnet commands
• Saves power and rack space using efficient design
• Includes compact switching power supply
• Mounts in optional 1RU single (RK1) or dual (RK2EZ) 19” rack kits
• Meets RoHS safety and California energy standards

The post HD Component Modulator QMOD-YPB2 appeared first on Contemporary Research.

Sound and Video Contractor(SVC)

By: Cynthia Wisehart

June 2013

For two weeks every spring, the AV systems at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden(IWTG) swings into action for the BNP Parabis Open, considered the “fifth Grand Slam” and one of the great marquee events in professional tennis. The rest of the year, the IWTG calendar fills up with local nailbiters like the Midweek Mixup and the De Anza League Boys Playoffs; the club’s members volley on the same courts that hosted Rafael Nadal and Maria Sharapova.

The facility near Palm Springs, opened in 2000 as the second largest tennis stadium in the world. Oracle founder Larry Ellison bought it in 2006 and is now funding an expansion that has been underway since mid-March. Here is something fun to do: go to www.iwtg.net/Site-Expansion-2014 and look at the live webcam and time-lapse movie of the construction, which will be complete by the time the BNP Parabis returns in 2014.

Director of Technical Services Dave Sahl is up to his neck in the expansion, which also includes an extension of the AV systems. Sahl has supplied technical support for the BNP Parabis for many years, first as a contractor and then in his position at IWTG. On his watch, the systems have been updated in effective—but not flashy-ways. As he walks me around the grounds during the BNP Parabis, the place feels like a casual county fair that just happens to be hosting a ruthless tennis competition. There are flatscreens and videowalls set up throughout the grounds—in the outdoor food courts, ticket, admin, and player areas—with live feeds from the eight courts, scoring data, sponsor messages, and various cable feeds. Guests don’t need to worry about missing a moment.

The facility has undergone a measured transition from analog to digital. In 2011, they replaced all the main Community Professional WET 228 loudspeakers with new ones, and also refreshed the OWI balcony speakers and the JBLs in the suites. At that time, a transition from IED to CobraNet/SimNet brought significant improvements to clarity, zoning, delay, and EQ, and eliminated the mystery noise episodes that occasionally rattled the system. It also allow Sahl to get sources, especially audio from the various Shure mics, to more places. The new stadium will have a Dante network that will interface with existing CobraNet through a design by Show Factory’s Marc Jones.

When the flatscreens were added through the grounds (including one for each of the 113 press seats), Sahl was able to build an internal HD cable network—19 custom HD channels—plus a standard CATV lineup. The 19 in-house channels are originated from Contemporary Research QMOD-HD HDTV Modulators for standard HD content and QMOD-HDSC HD Scaler Modulators for digital signage.

Some of the facility screens are supplied directly via fiber from a Brainstorm unit in the production office. But the bulk of the screens receive modulated signal. The new 7,000-seat stadium and its four restaurants will receive the same 19 HD channels.

The post Success Story – Indian Wells Tennis Center appeared first on Contemporary Research.

Sources

• One HD-SDI input, 3G 1080p and 1080i/720p 59.94/60 Hz HD-SDI, and SD-SDI 480i widescreen/4:3 video; also accepts embedded 608/708 captioning and AC-3/AES audio
• One Component input, 1080i, 720p, 480p, 480i video
• One Composite video input for encoding, captioning, or EAS use
• Stereo, optical and coax audio inputs

Encoding

• Creates a high-definition 720p/1080i MPEG-2 stream for broadcast
• Accepts stereo, PCM, or pass-through AC-3 audio, can create two MTS sub-channels for each input, supporting two languages each
• Includes captioning from Line 21 data on composite video inputs
• Flex encoding downscales 1080p to 1080i, allows use of 720p/1080p 60Hz sources, and compensates for 60/30 Hz sources such as consumer HD cameras
• QMOD Scaling upgrade allows full video up- and down-conversion
• QMOD 2-channel upgrade allows selection of inputs to create
• 2 HD channels

Output

• Delivers a fully agile QAM 64/256 digital cable channel 2-135
• Up to 270 HD Programs/Channels per system
• Streams IPTV from GigE Ethernet port
• Distributes channel over an on-site broadband cable system with adjustable output level to 29 dBmV, compatible with all cable format broadband systems
  Operation
• Sets up with front-panel buttons and easy to use menus, including inputs, encoding, channel, and RF options.
• Onboard Web page for setup and monitoring
• Control with IP Telnet commands
• Saves power and rack space using efficient design
• Includes compact switching power supply
• Mounts in optional 1RU single (RK1) or dual (RK2EZ) 19” rack kits
  Meets RoHS safety and California energy standards

The post HD SDI HDTV Modulator – QMOD-SDI1.5 appeared first on Contemporary Research.

The post Thank you for visiting Contemporary Research at InfoComm 2013 appeared first on Contemporary Research.

Sources

• One HDMI (non-HDCP) input, up to 1080p video and audio
• One RGBHV/Component input, up to 1080p video
• Two Composite video inputs for encoding, captioning, or EAS use
• Two sets of stereo and SPIDF coax audio inputs

Encoding

• Creates a high-definition 720p/1080i MPEG-2 stream for broadcast
• Accepts stereo, PCM, or pass-through AC-3 audio, can create two MTS sub-channels for each input, supporting two languages each
• Includes captioning from Line 21 data on composite video inputs
• Flex encoding downscales 1080p to 1080i, allows use of 720p/1080p 60Hz sources, and compensates for 60/30 Hz sources such as consumer HD cameras
• Scaling upgrade adds scaling for many VGA resolutions, overscan compensation, and positioning
• 2-channel upgrade allows selection of inputs to create
  2 HD channels

Output

• Delivers a fully agile QAM 64/256 digital cable channel 2-135
• Up to 270 HD Programs/Channels per system
• Streams IPTV from GigE Ethernet port
• Distributes channel over an on-site broadband cable system with adjustable output level to 29 dBmV, compatible with all cable format broadband systems

Operation

• Sets up with front-panel buttons and easy to use menus, including inputs, encoding, channel, and RF options.
• Onboard Web page for setup and monitoring
• Control with IP Telnet commands
• Saves power and rack space using efficient design
• Includes compact switching power supply
• Mounts in optional 1RU single (RK1) or dual (RK2EZ)

The post HDMI HDTV Modulator-QMOD-HDMI1.5 appeared first on Contemporary Research.

In a perfect Display Express world, your customer will always provide TVs with discrete IR power control, typical for LG, Panasonic, Sharp Sony, Samsung, and Visio TVs. But sometimes you’re faced with controlling less-than-perfect Insignia, Dynex, Phillips, Magnavox or other sets that don’t have discrete power commands.

The good news is there is a fix for that, using Xantech sensing components.

You’ll add a Zantech CBCSM1 Sensor Block and CSM1 sensor to each TV (about $96 at Amazon). We will supply a DC Y adapter and mono cable with stripped wires – just note on the invoice to supply a Xantech sensor kit with each ICC1-IR controller.

Also, when you order the iCC1’s tell them it’s for an Insignia TV and you will be using a power current sensor. We’ll setup the controllers accordingly.

As shown above, you would:

• Mount the block on the TV near the ICC1-IR controller
• Use the Y cable to connect DC power to the ICC1-IR and CBCSM1, using the ICC1’s power supply
• Connect the CSM1 power current sensor to the CBCSM1 input (the cable is attached to the sensor), plug the CSM1 to AC and plug the TV power cord into the CSM1
• Connect the sensor wires to GND and Pull Down on the CBSM1, and insert the plug into the ICC1 Sensor port

From there, the ICC1-IR will “read” the sensor port to provide absolute power on and off control. There is a sensitivity adjustment on the CSM1 sensor you can tweak for correct sensing, if needed.

The post Adding TV power current sensing to ICC1-IR controllers appeared first on Contemporary Research.

The company’s Display Express software allows full control over any connected TV.

Forget trying to figure out which remote pairs up with what TV. Contemporary Research has created a better way to channel surf.

The company features TV Control Panels to its popular Display Express software. The popular TV management system features web-based forms and control pages, allowing users to access the system via any PC or web-enabled tablet. This latest addition provides control over any connected TV, including channel flipping and volume control. It even has the ability to power TVs on and off.

Whether you want to group a bunch of TVs or just create a better way to control that one TV, the software can be set with one or more pages, for a variety of users, each with a unique login.

Any tablet driven by iOS, Android, or Windows can be used as a touch panel, with no additional wiring needed. The software is compatible with any Windows 7 Pro PC. System operation pages can be accessed over the network, while control commands travel over the existing RF coax system.

“Display Express has always been a crowd-sourced technology. A number of our integrators and end users suggested the concept, and we implemented the new feature in just a few weeks,” says Jennifer Oppenheim, developer. “In addition to new sites, our existing base of users can add the new feature with a free update.”

The post Contemporary Research Features Web-Based TV Control Panels appeared first on Contemporary Research.

Sports Bars

This venue surrounds the patrons with a fully sports-centered experience using site-wide TVs and projectors, often drawing in audience from live sports events. HDTV modulators present a mix of sports programming and digital signage from sports stats services. CR over-the-RF TV control technology integrates displays, enabling staff to set up the programming array using standard iPad and Android tablets.

Themed Restaurants/Event Centers

This venue employs a similar media-rich experience as sports bars, with more of an emphasis towards food service and less on live event programming. TV content is often driven from video servers and signage, delivered over RF using HDTV modulators. The site will integrate TVs using CR over-the-RF control technology, typically automating channels using an event schedule. A sub-set of this venue focuses on a specific areas of interest, such as video gaming, museums, and live events.

Casinos

Casino venues are a mix of Sports Bar and Themed applications. Sports Books within the venue will have an array of channels presented to the audience. At some sites, book staff manually setup and change the mix of channels on a daily basis. At others, a master schedule sets the channel array. Other TVs distributed throughout the site are managed by a programmed master schedule.

Suggested Products:
Display Express Control System
QMOD HDTV Modulators

The post Create a media-rich experience in Entertainment Venues appeared first on Contemporary Research.