![]() “The Fox and Hound comes to every job site now, whether I think I’ll need it or not.” The Fox and Hound 18Gbps generator and analyzer testing kit was built as the ideal testing unit for all custom and commercial integrators. These tools confirm correct bandwidth, HDCP, resolution, timing, HDR metadata and many more variables that can cause system hiccups if not treated correctly. The Fox & Hound takes the guess work out of where the problem is reducing truck rolls and helping your bottom line. Below we hear from Shane Martes of 225 Tech in Boise, ID on his experience with the Fox & Hound The Fox & Hound HDMI tester paid for itself on its very first outing. Despite frequent and specific warnings to other sub-contractors, I suspected that one of the several AVPro Bullet Train active optical cables installed had been damaged. Though it looked merely superficial, it was imperative that I verify its function as replacement would have been arduous and quite expensive. This damaged cable was the primary motivation for the purchase of the F/H. Using it to verify that my cable was in fact damaged beyond repair, I was able to get the cable replaced before walls and ceilings were closed up in this particular 3rd story apartment. I’ve since used it as a test monitor, HDCP verifier, EDID tester and more. Apart from being a useful on-site tool, when troubleshooting it also helps reassure various manufactures tech support that their equipment is working properly, bypassing troubleshooting steps and saving time. The Fox and Hound comes to every job site now, whether I think I’ll need it or not. Learn more about the Fox & Hound on the product page or give Dustin a call at 605-740-7326!
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![]() Sioux Falls, S.D. - Murideo, the name to trust in HDMI, audio, and video testing and troubleshooting equipment, is proud to announce it has become and independently operated subsidiary of AVPro Global Holdings. This move will place more focus and attention on Murideo’s customers as well as enhancing and refining the product line-up. With this change, Murideo has appointed a new VP of Sales, Dustin Stuntebeck. In this position, Dustin will be responsible for the management and success of the global sales organization as well as oversight and management of customer and distributor relationships. Matt Murray, CTO of Murideo, stated, “In order to better serve the manufacturing, development, calibration and test & measurement communities, Murideo has become a separately operated subsidiary of AVPro Global Holdings. Previously a DBA with blended resources, we saw the need to completely isolate the companies for the benefit of our customers. Murideo customers will now have access to dedicated sales, support and R&D. This new company will continue to specialize in HDMI test & measurement and audio/video calibration.” Stuntebeck added, “With the ever-changing landscape that we all work in, we found it to be more imperative now than ever for Murideo to be a standalone entity. Now we can have just as much rapid expansion and laser focus as we have before with a full backing of sales and support staff clearly focused on the Murideo brand. This will take us to the next level of capability and keeping us on the cutting edge of test and measurement gear.” For more information about Murideo please visit www.Murideo.com or contact 605-330-8491. About Murideo Murideo, an AVPro Global Holdings subsidiary, was created to satisfy the need for modern testing tools in the custom A/V market. Through a depth of knowledge brought on from years of experience in the electronics industry, the team at Murideo has brought cutting edge testing equipment to the world that was previously only available to the elite. The philosophy of Murideo is simple, focus on technology, focus on design, and focus on our users. For more information, visit www.Murideo.com or call (877) 886-5112. With the upcoming release of all new HDMI 2.1 sources, Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X this November, 8k and 48Gbps are a hot topic. But what does this spec mean? In this video, our own Jason Dustal reviews the spec and what it consists of. ![]() The all new Murideo 4K HDMI Rack Mounted Dual Screen Test Monitor is the second in their monitor line-up with the MU-MON-SING, launching last April. Both products make hunting down HDMI issues A LOT easier. This dual screen monitor comes with two seven-inch monitors built to display and test 4K signals up to 18Gbps. This compact device fits perfectly in the rack with its HDMI loop out port that will pass along any 4K signal. This means integrators can install it at the rack, loop out to different zones, and ensure the source is working properly by visually seeing the signal being distributed. It also gives your rack a high-end, finished look for your client. Like the single monitor version, these monitors can analyze resolution, frame rate, HDR, EDID, HDCP and more! Learn more about this all new product here.
![]() Murideo expands test monitor options with a dual screen, rack mounted version ready to test 4k signals up to 18Gbps. Sioux Falls, S.D. - Murideo, an AVPro Global Holdings company, is excited to announce a new product, the MU-MON-DUAL, 18Gbps 4K HDR dual screen input, rack mounted field test monitor with analyzer functions. This product is ideal for integrators to analyze resolution, frame rate, HDR, EDID, HDCP and more directly from the rack. Murideo’s Dual Screen Field Test Monitor comes with two seven-inch monitors built to display and test 4K signals up to 18Gbps. This compact device fits perfectly in the rack with its HDMI loop out port that will pass along any 4K signal. This means integrators can install it at the rack, loop out to different zones, and ensure the source is working properly by visually seeing the signal being distributed. Matt Murray, CTO of AVPro Global, stated, “The MU-MON-DUAL is the ultimate accessory for any rack. It gives the installer an HDMI analyzer in every rack, providing information on resolution, frame rate, HDR, EDID, HDCP and more. It really allows the integrator to keep a permanent piece of test equipment on the job site, while giving their end user an amazing visual of their own hardware. It adds that extra “pop” when showing off an equipment rack! Customers love it and dealers can send techs to a job site knowing they have analysis monitors in every rack.” For more information or to purchase MU-MON-DUAL, please contact Murideo at 605-330-8491 or visit www.Murideo.com. About Murideo Murideo, an AVPro Global Holdings brand, was created to satisfy the need for modern testing tools in the custom A/V market. Through a depth of knowledge brought on from years of experience in the electronics industry, the team at Murideo has brought cutting edge testing equipment to the world that was previously only available to the elite. The philosophy of Murideo is simple, focus on technology, focus on design, and focus on our users. For more information, visit www.Murideo.com or call (877) 886-5112. ![]() Setting yourself up for success is essential, and showing up on-site with pre-tested products is always the safest bet. A non-functioning HDMI cable can truly shut down an entire video distribution system, the last thing you need when timeframes are tight, and the pressure to finish is on. Be prepared for your installation by testing your cables before they leave the shop. No matter if you are handling an installation inside a school, conference room, or hospital. Time is money when you are on location, don’t waste it by installing cables that will give you problems down the road. Murideo is known for HDMI testing and troubleshooting. In this video, HDMI expert Jason Dustal shows you exactly how and why to test HDMI cables. We hope you enjoy! ![]() Testing Audio Video Sync for Broadcast Booths Broadcast is a fast-paced, no time for delays, no mistakes industry. When the backbone of the broadcast system not perfect, the small errors create a ripple effect, getting bigger, and more noticeable for the audience. Testing the audio/video distribution infrastructure thoroughly allows you to operate at the highest level. With the Murideo SEVEN Generator, you have a complete audio video testing package in one small form. You can test bandwidth, color spaces, audio sync, video sync, and test for latency between any source and sink.
![]() With the Seven Generator you can test:
You can select the exact signal you need to test. Once selected, that signal is immediately outputted from the HDMI video output port, allowing you to connect an HDMI cable to any distribution path. If you want to know more about the Murideo SEVEN Generator, please reach out to us today at 605-274-6055 or send us an email at info@murideo.com Audio Return Channel (referred to from here as ARC), is the option to send audio from a Display upstream to an Audio Playback Device over a single HDMI cable. This can be done without an external source and audio-transmitted from a Display's internal apps. While ARC may support higher bandwidth audio signals than previously capable via Toslink and Analog transmissions, it cannot transmit uncompressed audio such as Dolby TrueHD. However, hope is not lost for the home theatre enthusiast with an older system as a format of DD+ Atmos can still be transmitted over ARC. Recent revisions to ARC have brought forth Enhanced Audio Return Channel (referred to from here as eARC). eARC allows for uncompressed High Bit Rate Audio Formats, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, to be returned to Audio Playback devices bringing true cinema-grade audio into the home without all the external devices.
![]() The only issue with eARC? It may require you to buy a new cable. Bullet Train provides a variety of HDMI cables capable of supporting the high bandwidth of uncompressed audio, while supporting video beyond 4k. Still using ARC or Toslink? Bullet Train cables also support ARC. If the need arises to extend Toslink or ARC over distance, AVPro Edge offers solutions to extend either up to 330ft over category. ![]() This article is a part of a continuing year long series that highlights the people and experience of those that have worked closely with the Imaging Science Foundation for years. We have accomplished much over the years, and I have personally been recognized, awarded and written about for years - that is certainly not the whole story. The untold story is the years of hard work of many other ISF instructors who have made this possible. I have not done this alone, and it is time many of them have been given a voice. This is the first of a year long series where you will hear from some of the top calibrators working alongside ISF, we hope you enjoy. -ISF Founder, Joel Silver This month we will hear from our own Jason Dustal. ![]() As a young kid I was fascinated by electronics, especially Audio and Video products. My Great Grandfather owned a TV/radio repair business, and my other Grandfather and Father were both into early Hi-Fi and Home Theater. I basically grew up around this stuff which explains my love and passion for the industry.
I can remember my Grandparent’s TV from the late 70s/early 80s…a huge console TV with a record player under the top lid. On the front panel there were a few knobs that would alter the picture, and I was constantly getting into trouble for twisting them and annoying everyone who was trying to watch TV. Unknown to me at the time this would be what I would end up doing for a living! Fast forward about 15 years and I was working at a Florida based high end home electronics store, Sound Advice. One day one of my fellow co-workers brought in a DVD with some test patterns. He explained to me that by using this disc we could make the TVs “look better”. My young mind went into overdrive knowing that there was something that I could do to make it better, and this began my quest for the “perfect picture”. This was also the first time that I ever heard about the ISF. In 2008 I finally had the opportunity to attend an ISF class. The first class that I attended was hosted by the company that I worked for, so unfortunately I wasn’t able to meet Joel. We spoke on the phone a few times and I was constantly emailing him with problems that I was running into in the field. I irritated him enough that when we finally met, he knew me well. This was the beginning of a wonderful friendship and professional relationship. Since then I have assisted Joel in many classes, and in 2012 I started teaching on my own. Since then I have personally certified close to 1000 students. I would have never thought in a million years that I would be teaching alongside Joel, much less teaching the class myself. I have gone to places that I never thought I would get to see and I get to play with systems that I couldn’t afford in multiple lifetimes. I absolutely love my job and can’t imagine doing anything else! ![]() Thinking about getting back into people’s homes to calibrate? This is one calibrator’s experience I, like most calibrators, have taken a break from visiting people’s homes during the COVID 19 outbreak. The last home I visited was just before lockdown during the first weekend of March, and although I have received a lot of requests I have put them off. Now that new TV models have been hitting the streets the demand for the work is growing, and by taking some precautions I have a plan for myself and my clients going forward that will ensure everyone’s safety. This client originally emailed me about working on his TV, and before finalizing the appointment I was open with him and told him my concerns with working indoors in close quarters with someone. He understood and we came up with a checklist to ensure that everyone was safe and comfortable. It is always good to set expectations with your client about everything, so this may be something that you consider going forward. -No contact with client – This is a hard habit to break, but an important one. If you do shake hands or fist bump be sure to hand sanitize afterwards. -I brought my own remote (or wipe theirs down before touching ). A remote control can be a petri dish full of germs as everyone in the home has access to it. Remotes are often forgotten during cleaning, so bring your own (used remotes are easily found on eBay or in a drawer somewhere in the office). -Don’t touch anything that you don’t have to. There is no reason to unnecessarily expose yourself. Be cautious of leaning on walls, touching light switches, the TV stand, etc. if you do, remember to hand sanitize afterwards. -Shoes outside (or disposable booties) – I prefer disposable booties when entering any home. It shows that you respect the customer’s home, and the booties can protect you from any contaminants that might be on the floor. -Work in a clean area – Before I arrived this client swept, mopped, and disinfected the area that I would be working in. I didn’t ask for this, but I thanked him for the courtesy and thoughtfulness. -No sitting on the couch – Again, eliminate any unnecessary potential contamination. I typically stand for most of the calibration anyway, but if you like to sit you can always bring your own foldable or collapsible chair. -Clean hardware with alcohol wipes - After the calibration, before all of my gear goes back into its case, it gets a thorough wipe down. -Electronic payment – No physical cash means less potential for exposure -Email charts and receipts – Sometimes I will give my client a thumb drive with all of the performance charts and settings. Going forward it will all be electronic. There are several good, free file sharing services out there, and for simple things like this I like Google Drive. -Mask may be necessary – In some cases a mask be necessary for the comfort and safety of everyone involved. Masks vary so be sure to chose one that is both effective and as comfortable as possible. I personally have KN95 masks (N95 are also highly recommended but currently harder to find). -Bring your own water bottle – If you are like me and drink a lot of water I recommend bringing your own bottle. I have a large insulated bottle that keeps liquids cold (or hot) for several hours. Bringing your own bottle means less things you have to touch in case you are thirsty. -Find a clever way to remove outer clothing before coming home – My clothes went straight into the laundry when I got home just in case I had any hitchhiking germs -Shower right away – You have already taken plenty of precaution before and during the calibration, this is the final step in ensuring that you have done your part to protect yourself and anyone in your own home. I’ve spoken with a lot of calibrators and integrators who are hesitant to start visiting clients again (myself included), but by following these steps you can ensure the safety and comfortability of yourself, your client, and both yours and your client’s families. I hope this helps! Feel free to reach out with any questions or other suggestions! – jason@avproglobal.com Jason Dustal Training and Education AVPro Global CEDIA Collaborates with Imaging Science Foundation (ISF) to Offer Video Calibration Training6/9/2020 ![]() FISHERS, Ind. (June 9, 2020) – Today CEDIA announced a new training collaboration with the Imaging Science Foundation (ISF). This development aligns with CEDIA’s strategic mission to bolster industry education and standards and provides integrators with unparalleled access to ISF’s renowned video calibration curriculum and certification. CEDIA has worked with ISF Founder and CEDIA Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Joel Silver to create a hybrid version of the ISF training which includes online modules as well as hands-on training. Level I of the ISF class is available now in the new CEDIA Academy online learning platform and includes eleven self-paced modules covering the fundamentals of color science, display standards, and detailed tutorials on the ISF CalMAN workflow calibration software. “CEDIA sees calibration as an essential practice – we teach basic video calibration techniques and encourage all members to follow the recommended practices. It is so important that CEDIA’s Awards program requires that all project entries in the home theater and media room categories include an audio and video calibration report. Calibration has a broad reach throughout the industry — CEDIA is actively working with our fellow association leaders on new standards that include audio and video calibration. All that to say, working with ISF to teach the industry’s most prestigious video calibration certification was a no-brainer,” said Ian Bryant, CEDIA Vice President, Technology Application and Workforce Initiatives. Level I serves as the prerequisite, and ISF Level II and Level III will be hosted as in-person, hands-on training classes with dates to be scheduled later this year. These higher levels will focus on the ISF software-guided solutions for advanced calibration and system parameters including: EDID/HDMI verification, 3D color management, multipoint color balance, and other recent innovations. Joel Silver adds “ I am incredibly proud of how the online modules have turned out — I’ve been told for years that the first day of the ISF training is always the most difficult. Transitioning that first day of content into self-paced online courses is going to serve the attendee well and ensure they have time to really set their foundation to get started in calibration.” “Having members of your team trained in calibration is a business opportunity for integrators — I took the training myself prior to joining the CEDIA team as a way to set my company apart. Many companies underestimate the power that calibration plays in both the equipment performance and the overall customer experience. When the client sees the before and after documentation and quality of the image, they will have more faith in the fact that you have their best interest in mind, and that trust can open up additional sales not only to your client but also in the form of referrals,” said Bryant. This spring CEDIA hosted a webinar on The Business of Calibration presented by Joel Silver and Gerry Lemay for integrators looking to understand how calibration can drive revenue for their businesses. The ISF Level I modules are available online now in the CEDIA Academy; training dates for Level II and Level III will be announced in the next few months. CEDIA members enjoy preferred pricing on all training. To learn more about the ISF training at CEDIA, visit cediaacademy.net. ![]() This article is apart of a continuing year long series that highlights the people and experience of those that have worked closely with the Imaging Science Foundation for years. We have accomplished much over the years, and I have personally been recognized, awarded and written about for years - that is certainly not the whole story. The untold story is the years of hard work of many other ISF instructors who have made this possible. I have not done this alone, and it is time many of them have been given a voice. This is the first of a year long series where you will here from some of the top calibrators working alongside ISF, we hope you enjoy. -ISF Founder, Joel Silver This month we will hear from Robert Fucci. When someone can show me another way to see the same thing differently, better, count me in. I'm into that moment of discovery and inviting others in. Hence, my history with ISF! We provide references for you to re-view your preferences So, whether it's seeing white buttons appear on a white shirt or dark figures emerge out of a dark background (Game Of Thrones - The Long Night) or to see that everyone has the right skin tone, the joy of discovery that we provide as instructors and calibrators is priceless in its sharing TV and movie watching are shared experiences. If a tailor can make your "off the rack" suit look better on your body An ISF calibrator can tailor your "out of the box" TV to look better in your room -Robert Fucci, Director OF ISF Calibrator Testing & Certification ![]() For over 20 years, Robert Zohn (Value Electronics - 35 Popham Rd, Scarsdale NY) has been at the forefront of audio video sales. Every year this is celebrated with the wildly anticipated “TV Shootout”. In this face-off, all major tv brands are set up and judged by a select panel of display technology experts, and only one tv gets the winner’s title. For the next year, arguments are had by cinephiles and home theater enthusiasts on why “OLED will never lose” and how they can’t believe Panasonic won’t release models stateside. Well, this June is a little different, and while the TV Shootout has been postponed, our own Jason Dustal is going to talk with Robert virtually about all the latest and greatest TV technology. We want to give everyone the chance to join Robert and Jason so please register today.
2019
2019 King of TV: Sony A9G OLED TV Best SDR Day Mode: Sony A9G OLED TV Best HDR TV: Sony A9G OLED TV Best SDR Reference Mode: Sony A9G OLED TV Best Streaming TV: Tie, Sony A9G OLED TV and LG C9P OLED TV 2018 2018 King of TV: Sony A9F OLED TV Best HDR TV (HDR Reference Mode): Tie, Sony A9F OLED TV and LG E8P OLED TV Best Home Theater TV (SDR Reference Mode): Sony A9F OLED TV Best Living Room TV (SDR Day Mode/Video Processing): Sony A9F OLED TV 2017 2017 King of TV: LG OLED65E7P OLED 2016 Winner: LG OLED65G6P 2015 Winner: LG 65EG9600 4K OLED TV 2014 Winner: Tie, LG 55EC9300 OLED & Samsung PN64F8500 plasma ![]() This article is apart of a continuing year long series that highlights the people and experience of those that have worked closely with the Imaging Science Foundation for years. If you missed the last opening article from last month start here. We have accomplished much over the years, and I have personally been recognized, awarded and written about for years - that is certainly not the whole story. The untold story is the years of hard work of many other ISF instructors who have made this possible. I have not done this alone, and it is time many of them have been given a voice. This is the first of a year long series where you will here from some of the top calibrators working alongside ISF, we hope you enjoy. -ISF Founder, Joel Silver This month we will hear from Michael Hamilton... My fondest memory - endearing and everlasting in the ISF's now second decade - continues to be Joel's tireless commitment and personal access to attendees during seminars. His unique charisma never fails to bring people, literally from all over the world, to form a collegial camaraderie during the now three days of classes. Whether prior to a session starting, during a break or at the conclusion of the day, I've never failed to see Joel seek out someone to clarify a point, show something supplemental as an aside to the course topics, or simply allow someone to interpersonally engage him. From my first seminar as an attendee in 1995 at Lansing, MI through my most recent in Anaheim this past November, I am constantly in awe at how selflessly Joel devotes himself the ISF experience. Undoubtedly he has contributed to making my life rewarding beyond my dreams in an industry I love, as well as becoming a deeply treasured friend. And I would be remiss to not mention Jeff Murray's countless time, toiling often behind the scenes, which has richly contributed to the ISF throughout the decades. I hold dearly in my heart, a trove of decades-long memories and experiences we've shared. I am truly blessed. Michael Hamilton ![]() Hunting down HDMI issues just got a lot easier with this handheld or rack-mountable test monitor from Murideo. Sioux Falls, S.D. - Murideo, an AVPro Global Holdings company, is excited to announce a new product, the MU-MON-SING, an 18Gbps 4K HDR HDMI input field test monitor with analyzer functions. The product features a seven-inch full HD playback screen, EDID management, a built-in signal analyzer, HDCP 2.3 support, battery adaptor, and more. Murideo’s 4K test monitor is a compact device that comes with a battery adapter for working around a job site, but also fits perfectly in a rack with an HDMI loop out port that will pass along any 4K signal. This monitor also offers signal analyzer information such as resolution, color space, HDCP, HDR confidence, and audio type analysis. The ability to view HDMI signals up to 18Gbps (4096x2160P60 4:4:4) allows integrators to use this monitor with every consumer source on the market. As a part of the Murideo testing and troubleshooting family, the standards for this product are of the highest in the industry. Matt Murray, CTO of AVPro Global, stated, “The MU-MON-SING was brought to market by the overwhelming requests of field installers. I would say it was designed by installers based on their feedback and requests. It combines field portability in a lightweight yet large (7 inch) screen with some basic analysis function, including incoming signal information like resolution, frame rate, chroma sub-sampling, HDR, and more! It should become a common tool for field installers to have on the trucks.” For more information or to purchase MU-MON-SING, please contact Murideo at 605-330-8491 or visit www.Murideo.com. About Murideo Murideo, an AVPro Global Holdings brand, was created to satisfy the need for modern testing tools in the custom A/V market. Through a depth of knowledge brought on from years of experience in the electronics industry, the team at Murideo has brought cutting edge testing equipment to the world that was previously only available to the elite. The philosophy of Murideo is simple, focus on technology, focus on design, and focus on our users. For more information, visit www.Murideo.com or call (877) 886-5112. ![]() Traditional category runs are cheap, easy to use, and can provide Power over Ethernet (PoE) up to 100 Watts. While copper has always been reliable cabling, it suffers from signal interference as well as length and bandwidth limitations. To keep things short, 4K and 8K video signals carry massive amounts of bandwidth, and copper can only carry these signals short distances, even heavily compressed. Now, more than ever, it makes sense to run fiber alongside traditional category runs. Fear not! Many advancements in fiber production technology have made fiber optic cable safer, more resilient, and more cost-effective. Although currently unable to carry power, fiber optics don’t suffer from EMI or RFI signal interference. Running duplex OM3, allows for 40Gbps Video Signal and 100Gigbit Ethernet up to 100 meters. Traditional 10.2Gbps Video Signals and 10Gigabit Ethernet can be extended further at over 300 meters. In this battle of infrastructure, both is better. Fiber optics help future proof the install for years to come while category cabling can be repurposed for other uses such as lower network signals and PoE solutions. Mastering running both can reduce truck rolls, simplify upgrades, and increase overall job revenue. ![]() This Tech Tip is brought to you by Sam Metiver. Sam has been apart of AVPro tech support for over 2 years. In this time he has become a crucial member of the team taking a special interest in new and upcoming audio video distribution technologies. In his spare time he enjoys music and is a stand up comedian! Look out for more future Tech Tips from Sam. ![]() This article is apart of a continuing year long series that highlights the people and experience of those that have worked closely with the Imaging Science Foundation for years. If you missed the last opening article from last month start here. We have accomplished much over the years, and I have personally been recognized, awarded and written about for years - that is certainly not the whole story. The untold story is the years of hard work of many other ISF instructors who have made this possible. I have not done this alone, and it is time many of them have been given a voice. This is the first of a year long series where you will here from some of the top calibrators working alongside ISF, we hope you enjoy. -ISF Founder, Joel Silver This month we will hear from Hartmut Berberich... ![]() With the introduction of the first practical projectors and the laser disc, my career with AV installation started. I learned the hard job of installing a CRT projector. Not only the convergence, but also the colors and more give me a headache sometimes. At InfoComm 2001, I learned Mark Hunter's colorfacts system and I was thrilled. This was the first tool in my eyes for better color, not only the test pattern. In 2006 I got my first contact to ISF by a Belgian instructor. In a closer cooperation with a former German instructor, I learned more and more about calibration and used this for my own dealer training also. In Amsterdam in 2008 I met Joel Silver. He was running an ISF class. What a big difference. I got flashed. Here, I learned so much about calibration, which I could use successfully in my dealer training. Since this time Joel and I always meet in Amsterdam or other places in Europe. Either helping him to run the ISF class in Amsterdam or running over the show. Also working together with AVPro team members Jeff, Matt and Loel. In this time, a family of AV enthusiasts was built up and is still working today. ![]() In those days, I was working for a well known European projector supplier and doing training in Europe, Russia, China, and South Asia. Over this whole time I had been in contact with Joel discussing some bigger projects like laser projectors and more. When I left the projector supplier in October 2012 Joel appointed me as an ISF instructor. Wow, I was so so proud about this honor. Now, beneath my normal work, I'm doing ISF training with focus in the German speaking area. Here I'm working together also with Roland Seibt (test chief of the biggest German magazine in the area, Video), a well known specialist on HDR. Working together with bigger suppliers like LG, Samsung or Optoma and broadcasters is a smart advantage and allows us to stay updated on new technology. And last but not least always being in contact with Joel and the team of AVPro, discussing the latest development and trends. Best regards, Hartmut ![]() I first became aware of Murideo products during an ISF Level II Training class several years ago. That was where I was first introduced to the Murideo SIX G Signal/Pattern Generator - and its companion - the Murideo SIX A Signal Analyzer. I quickly learned that if I wanted to calibrate a display device accurately and efficiently or effectively troubleshoot a problematic 18Gbps connection chain, the Murideo SIX G and SIX A tandem was the preeminent and indispensable tools to have on hand. To this day, I still use both regularly for performing a variety of test-and-measurement procedures, including signal integrity/verification, troubleshooting - and of course - display calibration. However, I recently started using a new and extraordinarily powerful test-and-measurement tool; and as the saying goes: “There’s a new sheriff in town.” ![]() Working closely and in conjunction with major format originators, A/V manufacturers, and standards associations - the SEVEN Generator represents the culmination of intense R&D and unparalleled design excellence. The SEVEN is a formidable, quantum-leap behemoth that packs an amazing array of tools and capabilities. These tools and features warp the SEVEN G into an entirely new universe of A/V Test and Measurement. It literally creates a new market category, and it accomplishes it all without breaking the bank, your bank. The SEVEN Generator is the A/V Test & Measurement Appliance that everyone has been clamoring for, so let’s take a closer look. Below is just a sample of the tools and tests available. ALL IN ONE BOX! VIDEO
AUDIO
![]() The Murideo SEVEN G is truly GROUNDBREAKING. Whether you are an A/V equipment manufacturer, an OEM, an electrical engineer, a professional calibrator, or an integrator/installer/dealer, you will discover a plethora of features and functions that will:
Finally, the SEVEN G is designed to be FUTURE RESISTANT (it already supports HDMI 2.1 standards and requirements), and it’s not stopping there. This marvel will ultimately play a key role in creating a better future for the A/V industry with vastly improved and more capable and stable products rolling off the assembly line. I hope you will take a closer look at this impressive and powerful A/V Test & Measurement machine and pick one up for yourself! For more in-depth information regarding the capabilities for the SEVEN G, please download the User Manual at www.murideo.com/SEVEN-G. This product review was submitted by industry veteran John Tumbleson. Learn more about John's experience in A/V and what drives his enthusiasm for the industry below. ![]() Before starting my career in the high-tech industry; i.e. Apple, Iomega, Claris etc., I worked in the high-end audio industry where I manufactured my own private label speakers and studio monitors. This was the early to mid 70’s, and I subsequently became involved in the design and installation of discotheques at various restaurants and bars all over the country. A seminal moment for me came in the early 80’s when Sony introduced the Beta HiFi VCR system; and the world of video began to merge with the world of high-end audio. This became the genesis of what we now call “Home Theater” and at that point, I became bitten by the Home Theater “bug”. For many years Home Theater was a “hobby” for me, as my career at Apple and other companies was basically my day job. Then in 2012, I started on a new career path which incorporated A/V system control with residential and commercial projects, but I also became heavily involved with audio and video distribution and calibration. In 2014, while designing a commercial control project, I was introduced to AVPro. At that point - as it is said, our paths crossed, and a few years later, I officially joined AVPro. And as they say: “The rest is history”. My hobby is now my day job. But, I doesn’t really feel like a job, because it’s just too much fun!
Tech Tips are written directly by the Murideo's Tech Support Team. With years of experience seeing every HDMI signal available and working with hundreds of different products, the support team picks up helpful knowledge talking to Integrators, calibrators and electronics manufacturers around the world. This series is aimed to share that knowledge. Here is this month tech tip:
Uncompressed Video distribution can be hard; Passive Copper HDMI cables falter with distance and HDMI extension methods suffer from bandwidth limitations. The Answer? Active Optical Cables of course! What are Active Optical Cables (AOC)? AOC HDMI Cables are uncompressed HDMI Cables capable of running 100 Meters due to 4 Strands of Fiber over the TMDS Lanes which carry Audio and Video signals. BUT not all AOC cables are made the same, just like anything some manufactures will take short cuts in the engineering and development areas. Many AOC cables require external power or worse, use Plastic Optical Fiber used in TosLink cables, a known poor quality fiber type not ready for high bandwidth signaling. These lower quality products will take up space with extra power supplies and often are unable to reach 18Gbps bandwidths, which is need for HDR and high frame rate video. The Solution! The Bullet Train 10K AOC HDMI Ultra High Speed Cable is capable of uncompressed 48Gbps signaling and requires no external power supply. Bullet Train 10K AOC cables use Cleerline SSF OM2 Glass Fiber, and high quality fiber that is safe to terminate in the field. This means if we ever move past HDMI as a delivery method you can always cut off the heads of the cable and easily terminate the 4 individual fiber runs located inside the cable shielding. Not only future proofing your runs but allowing them to serve multiple distribution purposes. This article is apart of a continuing year long series that highlights the people and experience of those that have worked closely with the Imaging Science Foundation for years. If you missed the last opening article from last month start here. We have accomplished much over the years, and I have personally been recognized, awarded and written about for years - that is certainly not the whole story. The untold story is the years of hard work of many other ISF instructors who have made this possible. I have not done this alone, and it is time many of them have been given a voice. This is the first of a year long series where you will here from some of the top calibrators working alongside ISF, we hope you enjoy. -ISF Founder, Joel Silver This month we will hear from Julien Berry... When asked to write up my experiences and memories with ISF, two things came up, one humorous and then something I consider very important, let’s explore both. First Humorous During the very first ISF class I gave in Paris back in 2006, one of my journalist friends noticed that I often wear black clothes. Now this has nothing to do with the fact that Joel always wears black clothes as well. I have always been this way since I was a teenager. I replied that day and still do ever since that it is a very convenient way to ensure a good contrast ratio and black level for the systems I am dealing with. No interferences. It is also a way to advocate dark environment to improve the viewing experience. Now Important
In 2008, I managed to secure an actual movie theater like screening room for the class since I happened to calibrate it in a regular basis. While it might have seemed overkill given the number of attendees, it gave quite an impression with an added bonus of a guided tour of the facility. Nowadays, my class are hosted at the French Sony facilities witch gives me access to professional products in addition to the consumer ones. It has been a great satisfaction and privilege to be able to give a glimpse of the movie making process to people typically associated with the other end of the spectrum, namely the residential AV installers. As the years came by, I also had the opportunity to train tech guys from post production facilities and even movie theater projectionists. The next class shall bring those different kind of people together for the benefit of everyone through exchange of views and experiences. You are able to sign up for my next class today, here are the details, and don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions you might have: Paris France Hosted by Sony France 07/06/2020 –07/08/2020 9am-6pm Julien Berry Website - http://hdvc.fr/ Email - info@hdvc.fr By Jason Dustal The first AVPro Academy class of 2020 is officially in the books! Thanks to Andy Spolar at the AWA reps showroom in Chicago, IL where we not only host the class, but also have our brand new AVPro Edge Experience Center. The AVPro Edge Experience center is a great place to visit to see live demos of AVPro Edge and Murideo products such as the Multi-Viewer, the 16x16 matrix switch, extenders, Murideo HDMI test equipment, and more. If you are in the area feel free to stop by and meet Andy. He can give you a live demo of AVPro Edge products and discuss with you about what AVPro can do for you and your customers. AVPro Academy consists of 2 days day of learning the fundamentals of Audio and Video in residential and commercial environments. During day 1 we cover everything from system design to troubleshooting. We dissect HDMI and learn how to troubleshoot small to large distributed A/V systems. Day 2 is all about display calibration and learning the core fundamentals on how to make a display look it’s best. My favorite part of AVPro Academy is always the hands-on activities. The students in this class learned how to use the Murideo tools to test the bandwidth on various HDMI cables, test devices for HDCP compliance, read and emulate EDID, and some valuable troubleshooting skills. Steve from Cleerline stopped by and gave a great demo on fiber optics. The class learned about the great benefits of using fiber as the A/V backbone, and by the end of the class some of the students themselves were terminating fiber in less than a minute. For the rest of the hands on activities we had some great tools and displays to practice with, including LG and Sony OLEDs, a Sony Z9 LED/LCD, JVC projector, a 2x2 video wall, and light meters from Xrite, Klein, Portrait Displays, and Jeti, and of course AVPro Edge distribution and Murideo HDMI testing products.
This particular AVPro Academy class had a wide variety of students…some who were brand new to the A/V industry, and some with as much as 30 years experience. We even had a Home Theater enthusiast who wanted to learn about calibrating his displays at his own home. It is not uncommon to meet students in class with all kinds of different backgrounds. Broadcasters, manufacturers, post production, colorists, writers, and TV reviewers are just some examples. Most of the students stayed for the second day to learn about display calibration. This is a service very near and dear to my heart as I am a videophile who is always chasing the perfect picture. Learning this skill as an integrator is valuable and can set you apart from your competitors. Consumers want to maximize the potential of their system, and learning this skill will help with that. Integrators use the skills they learn to sell better systems and to maximize customer service, which in turn maximizes profits. Everyone who attends day 2 of class gets to learn the basics of ISF calibration, including an introduction to different display technologies, hands on with the tools that are used for calibration, and a temporary CalMAN license so they can go home and practice calibrating. Everyone who attends class and takes the ISF Level 1 exam earns a certificate and is listed on the ISF website as a certified dealer (imagingscience.com/dealers). CEDIA and AVIXA members are also awarded CEUs for attending AVPro Academy. One class down and several more to go in 2020! If you would like more information on class dates and locations, feel free to give us a call at 605.274.6055 or you can always visit our training site at avpro.training. Thanks and I hope to see you in 2020! Find more information at https://www.avpro.training/avpro-academy.html AVPro Academy is an AVIXA and CEDIA certified course, earning you credit hours. ![]() I started the ISF with a simple but radical idea at the time. I wanted to build a network of professionals that would adjust home TVs to accurately display the intent of creative artists and film directors. The initial focus was high-end residential integrators. Our success in that market was the result of meeting business owners with wonderful relationships with affluent clients. They were driven to install systems that would sound better and look better than anything their clients had ever seen before. We met most early ISF dealers through CEDIA and found many like-minded supporters there. Their clients saw vastly superior TV pictures and had the ability to afford them, and we were launched. We soon discovered volumes of manufacturer’s technical staff that understood what we were doing and would support our efforts. With them we were able to design TVs that could be easily calibrated in the field. That brought ISF features to millions of mainstream TVs. I never thought that could be possible for a radical idea. Studios were using consumer TVs as “client monitors”, and I soon found volumes of content creation professionals becoming ISF calibrators. That brought the concept full circle. There are now many thousands of professionals whose everyday work is faithful to the intent of artists and directors. -Joel Silver, Founder of the Imaging Science Foundation If you want to be a consumer electronics professional, where is your sphere of influence? Let’s explore the entire process. You will see where you fit in and how critical to the industry your role has become. The entire artistic process is a series of optical and electronic “Transfer Functions”. Think of a digital signal coming into your TV, and then light comes out. That’s one kind of transfer function. Let’s follow the steps that deliver the intent of the director to viewers.
We have accomplished much over the years, and I have personally been recognized, awarded and written about for years - that is certainly not the whole story. The untold story is the years of hard work of many other ISF instructors who have made this possible. I have not done this alone, and it is time many of them have been given a voice. This is the first of a year long series where you will here from some of the top calibrators working alongside ISF, we hope you enjoy. This month we will hear from Kevin Miller... ![]() I was involved in the creation of the ISF with Joel Silver dating back to the spring of 1993 when working at The Perfect Vision as the Publisher and CEO. The idea that Joel so eloquently described was spawned over cocktails one evening at an InfoComm show in New Orleans. A little over a year later, in February of 1994, Joel launched his company with the first ever ISF seminar at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City. I was at that seminar as a student with my Philips color analyzer in hand. I started my company, ISFTV, in February of 2001. Later that year, I co-instructed a seminar with Joel that followed the CEDIA show in Indianapolis. Day two of the seminar, as fate would have it, was on 9/11/2001. We had a very large group of nearly 60 students who were all quite shaken by the morning’s events. Our great friend Stu Kobak, who ran a DVD review web site of his own called Filmsondisc.com, got Joel on the phone and encouraged him to have us finish that seminar even in the face of the horrific events of that day. We did persevere and got the class to the finish line. Following that 2001 seminar, I spent many years co-instructing ISF seminars with Joel all over North America, which was a great learning experience. Joel helped launch my company as he has done for many small businesses all over the world. I am proud to have been a part of the creation of the Imaging Science Foundation, and continue to work closely with Joel and a number of talented technicians all over the country, furthering the goal of delivering the artist’s (Director’s) intent to consumer’s television screens. I have also been heavily involved for many years on the professional side of our industry, now supporting over 60 Post Production facilities with my professional calibration services and technical consulting in the New York Tri-state area. I have also been providing technical and product development consulting to TV and video source manufacturers since 2003. Kevin Miller ISFTV Email: kevin@isftv.com Web site: www.isftv.com They say a craftsman is only as good as his tools, and that couldn't be more true when it comes to calibrating displays. The whole point of calibrating a display is to test it against a known standard with extreme precision and accuracy. In some cases (such as post-production) an inaccurate display can disrupt the workflow of the project. This ultimately costs time, money, and frustration amongst the people who are doing everything they can to finish the project on time.
![]() Today there are hundreds and hundreds of test patterns available to set up and calibrate displays. The SEVEN Generator is packed full of test patterns from the best in the business. We included patterns from ISF, Digital Video Solutions, the Professional Video Alliance, Spears and Munsil, Bill Wetzel, and some of our own Murideo patterns as well. You will never run out of test patterns with the SEVEN! If you have custom test patterns, reference images, or videos that you like to use, feel free to upload custom material with our Uploader Software. ![]() Lip sync errors are painfully apparent in any A/V system. These issues have plagued integrators and calibrators for years, and until now, there has not been a calibration tool that allows you to measure lip sync. Now with the SEVEN Generator, you can not only calibrate the audio and the video but also easily measure for lip sync. These issues are hard to track down and are notorious for causing troubleshooting calls and truck rolls. Adding lip sync testing to your calibration ensures these issues don't show up after you leave the job site, and puts you ahead of your competitors. ![]() HFR (High Frame Rate) is right around the corner and will make video look smoother than we've ever seen before. Sports fans and gamers are very excited about this, and calibrators need to be able to set the display up correctly for this new, highly anticipated feature. The SEVEN comes stock with native 120fps video material, which makes testing for HFR a breeze. HFR, along with other features, is part of the brand new HDMI 2.1 spec. There is a lot of talk about HDMI 2.1 right now, and we are seeing products coming with these new high bandwidth connections. Not only does bandwidth increase to 48Gbps with HDMI 2.1, but it also comes with some pretty cool features like eARC. eARC provides much more bandwidth for audio to travel from a display back to an audio source such as an AVR or soundbar. This will allow for fully uncompressed audio, including Dolby Atmos, over the eARC channel which is something the industry has not seen before. As a calibrator, it will be essential to test for these signals to ensure that your customer is getting the highest possible quality audio signal for their system. Easily use the Seven Generator to test for these signals and configure the audio in your customer's system the best way possible. ![]() Speaking of HDMI 2.1, the SEVEN was built with this new standard in mind. It will come stock with an HDMI 2.0 output, and once available, you will be able to send in your unit and Murideo can upgrade it to HDMI 2.1. Again, something that's the first of its kind and only available from Murideo. This generator is packed full of features that will make a calibrator's life much easier. This highly advanced tool will ensure that your jobs are completed efficiently and at the highest possible level of quality. Increase customer satisfaction and outshine your competition! For more information visit murideo.com or give us a call at 605.330.8491. Murideo Introduces the SEVEN Generator, an Approved Test Device for Dolby Vision™ and Dolby Audio™1/28/2020 New from Murideo, the SEVEN Generator is unlike any other with extensive audio and video testing capabilities.
Sioux Falls, S.D. - Murideo is proud to present the SEVEN Generator, the next generation in HDMI test and measurement equipment. An approved test device for Dolby Audio™, the SEVEN hosts an unmatched suite of audio and video tests ideal for the video device, display, or repeater manufacturer as well as the consummate video professional. The SEVEN is shipping now with full 4K video capabilities that can be upgraded to 8K in the future (late 2020). This upgrade will include full 40 Gbps speeds, 5, 8, and 10K test patterns, and more. Murideo is responsible for the SIX-A Analyzer and DPL Labs certified SIX-G Generator Field Test Suite. Popular among the world’s top integrators and calibrators, the success of these products paved the way for the development of the Seven Generator. The SEVEN is the first low cost alternative HDMI test suite for pre-compliance testing of HDMI 2.x compatible products. A partial list of test tools included is listed below:
This device is the ideal solution for display calibration and evaluation. The test suite allows the user to construct a test signal with any video format and any audio format, then execute a test based on your own parameters and allows for reporting. The impeccable performance in video generation is just the beginning. The SEVEN was designed with advanced audio testing capabilities, including A/V Sync (Lip Sync), Audio Latency, and Dolby Audio. The Audio Suite of tests is available in HDMI Tx, ARC Tx, and eARC Tx. With additional features like tone generation, frequency sweeps, AV Sync measurements, audio latency measurements, this is an audio swiss army knife. The built-in photo-diode sensor and microphone allow you to get real-time sync and latency measurements from HDMI and ARC/eARC. The SEVEN Generator is listed at $5,999.00 MSRP and includes a free update to HDMI 2.1 Video (hardware update) and DTS test tool suite (firmware update) later this year. To purchase, evaluate or receive more information, please email info@murideo.com, contact Murideo at 877-886-5112 or visit www.Murideo.com/Seven-G. About Murideo Murideo, an AVPro Global Holdings brand, was created to satisfy the need for modern testing tools in the custom A/V market. Through a depth of knowledge brought on from years of experience in the electronics industry, the team at Murideo has brought cutting edge testing equipment to the world that were previously only available to the elite. The philosophy of Murideo is simple, focus on technology, focus on design, and focus on our users. For more information visit www.Murideo.com or call (877) 886-5112. Press Contact: 605-782-2471 www.Murideo.com A new decade is here and its time to invest some time in yourself and your business. A great way to do that is with the training courses offered by AVPro.Training. With all new class dates for the upcoming year, there are plenty of opportunities to increase your knowledge and refine skill set, especially with HDMI 2.1 on the horizon. Below are the classes available from AVPro.Training: ISF Level III SeminarJoin Joel Silver, 2018 CEDIA Lifetime Achievement Award winner, for this hands-on training in distributing and controlling 4K60 (4:4:4) signal distribution in a multi-room dwelling. Learn and do what it takes to get a signal from a new UHD HDR player to every zone in the installation via various devices including fiber optic, HDBaseT, HDMI over IP and even terminating fiber. You will also explore and learn HDR-10, Dolby Vision and HLG video calibration on today’s latest display technologies including flat panels and projectors. Coming out of ISF Level III, you will have the knowledge to teach customers about picture quality and be able to confidently explain why investing in a better TV or projector is worth it. This will all contribute to more margin and better sales, ultimately increasing the bottom line. All of this and more is covered in ISF Level III! ![]() 2020 Dates: February 8-10 | Amsterdam, Netherlands Pre ISE, Hosted by JVC March 3-5 | Auckland, New Zealand April 8-10 | Vancouver, BC, Canada Hosted by JVC May 5-7 | Chicago, IL Hosted by NEC September | Denver, CO Pre-CEDIA, Hosted by CEDIA October 6-8 | Dallas, TX November 4-6 | Los Angeles, CA AVPro Academy![]() Building an A/V system for a client can be complex, especially when dealing with high bandwidth HDR video systems. Our goal is to teach A/V integrators how to design, build, troubleshoot, and maintain systems to keep their clients happy and keep coming back for years to come. AVPro Academy is a 2 day course from our knowledgeable and experienced trainers that will teach you about these complex systems and how to overcome technical limitations. After you complete AVPro Academy and pass an exam you will earn a certificate and become ISF Level I certified.
HAAThe Home Acoustics Alliance has developed the foremost course for Home Theater Acoustics design and performance. Whether you are seeking improvements in an existing system or building a new one, the course provides the framework and knowledge to practice acoustic design and calibration in the field. The various "Elements" that outline this framework are reviewed by the acoustical calibrator and graded based upon how well they conform to industry standards. The calibrator then has the information necessary to "pro"scribe the required changes to bring performance up to its best. ![]() 2020 Dates: February 6 | Bracknell, UK A special one-day, information packed course. Earn the HAA-HT1 Certification February 15-19 | Amsterdam, NL May 11-15 | Las Vegas, NV PVAThe PVA Certified Professional Video Calibration course provides professional video calibrators the most in-depth and comprehensive calibration training available today. PVA training workshops are based on years of expertise in the physics of video and psycho-visual perception. Proven facts, solid concepts and decades of expertise come together in this unique, top rate workshop. Join PVA for a three-day Professional Video Systems Calibration workshop and gain the hands-on experience and skills you need to properly calibrate modern high definition video systems – practical knowledge that can start generating revenue for your business immediately. ![]() 2020 Dates: January 11-14 | Las Vegas, NV Post CES February 15-18 | Amsterdam, NL April 23-26 | Las Vegas, NV Post NAB |
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