The mount fits projectors weighing up to 25 lbs, and allows for independent image adjustment that ensures proper alignment on a screen.  It can tilt 15 degrees forward and 5 degrees backward and is able to swivel 360 degrees when mounted on an extension column, or 30 degrees when mounted flush to the ceiling.  The mount can also roll 10 degrees to the left or right.  The PRS Series Projector Mount offers a quick-release feature for quick bulb replacement or access to the filter on the projector.  All necessary hardware comes standard for the mounting system.

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In addition to their 4-pounder, Casio also introduced a 5-pound, 2800 ANSI lumen (using a 250watt mercury lamp), 1000:1 contrast ratio, XGA resolution DLP projector in the XJ-450 model.  United Visual is an authorized Casio dealer so please contact your representative if you are interested in a demonstration.

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The speakers are weather-resistant, and marketed to a wide variety of applications, including video systems in conference rooms and classrooms, restaurants/bar patio areas, home patios and yards, and outdoor retail such as green houses and garden stores.

These are inexpensive 8ohm or 70-volt speakers that would work well with any meeting room application.

As with most 70-volt speaker systems, the SM42T-B and SM42T-W are 2-way (8 ohm/70.7V) and have a screwdriver-adjustable 25/70.7V/100V transformer with tap settings from 2-16 watts for 70.7V/100V distributed sound applications and all 1/4"-20 hardware inserts allowing for easy integration of "off-the-shelf" security hardware.

Also included is an Atlas Sound TRX Waveguide, a constant directivity style high-frequency wave guide system providing accurate, even, high frequency coverage (90"H x 90"V ), according to the company.  The SM42T-B and SM42T- W are Omnimount 10 series compatible.

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The lectern is mobile with lockable casters and has plenty of storage for computers and peripherals.  It also has cable raceways as well as a concealable connection panel for data, audio and video connections.

The Sympodium L250 interactive lectern started shipping last month.

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Whether you own a restaurant, a day spa, a dental clinic or department store, the pro AV world offers new windows of opportunity to get your marketing message across to current and potential customers – at the point of purchase.

What’s in a System?

As electronic digital signage changes the way advertising and information is presented to the public, solutions are as varied as the types of businesses using the technology.  These delivery systems may also be called narrowcasting, virtual billboards, private network broadcasting, or retail television.  At the heart of the system is typically a PC and software ranging from simple to sophisticated.

In malls or on street corners, businesses may employ simple text messaging on a monitor, stand-alone kiosks, plasma screens, flat LCD panels or a video wall.  Digital signage can be displayed from handsome cabinets, placed on futuristic stands, mounted on walls, or be suspended from the ceiling.

For example, one clever tenant at a mall in Delaware hung a transparent rear projection screen from cables at the entrance to the food court.  The projector was mounted so as to blend into the ceiling, while dome speakers localized the sound into the traffic path of viewers.  Smart audio increased or decreased volume based on ambient sound levels.

The physical environment and style of your establishment will greatly determine what position and configuration of equipment may look and work best for your business.

Content and Applications

In effect, digital signage allows you to become your own TV network program director.  The images and messages you create can be scheduled, laid out on the screen, and sequenced for the time of day you choose.  Own a restaurant?  Show the butter melting over those pancakes in the morning, and cut into a juicy steak in the evening.  Own a group of hardware stores?  Let streaming video run seasonal commercials from manufacturers that identify specific products for the "do-it-yourselfer."  Messages can be altered at will to communicate product information, price changes, or stimulate impulse purchasing.

A forward-thinking group of convenience stores on the East Coast even sells advertising time on their screens to neighboring businesses for an added revenue stream.  The objective, however, is to make sure that your message and technology are integrated in a way that appeals to your target audience and influences their buying behavior.

Staying in Control

Today’s retail windows are adaptable to businesses both large and small for quick and effective communication.  Presentations can be continuously looped or played in a rotation that you select.  You might even have several channels with different information from which customers can choose.  The goal is to make the shopping (or waiting!) experience more enjoyable or educational for the consumer.

If your business has multiple outlets, digital signage systems let you control what content is played where – allowing consistency of information throughout your stores, assuring that everyone promotes the same products in the same way. When it makes sense, some amount of local or regional flexibility can be built in for unique updates or specific demographic appeal.  This type of corporate network can be established via the Internet, and manufacturers are increasingly interested in partnering with retailers who can promote their products at the point of sale.

When exploring the possibilities of the new retail windows, some hardware and logistical considerations to keep in mind are:

• Maximize viewer angles (size of screen and placement)
• Minimize glare (adapt or change existing lighting)
• Audio that doesn’t "trespass" on other screens or neighboring stores
• Complement existing store design
• Protection of equipment
• Degree of central or individual content control

Leading edge technology combined with eye-catching images are transforming the face of retail promotion and expanding sales for savvy businesses.  Let us help you open the window of opportunity to make your displays and products "come alive" in a way that attracts and impacts your buying audience.

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