Prysm, the Laser Phosphor Display company, files for U.S. Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
The large format displays company sought Chapter 11 protection with liabilities of $273.6 million and assets of $4.6 million. Apparently Prysm have never achieved profitability on a GAAP or even cashflow basis. Never.
Since December 2015, Prysm financed its operations by issuing senior secured promissory notes.
What the company does have are software assets, hardware assets and huge NOL carryforwards (i.e., savings on future tax liability--a deferred tax asset that can be offset against net income in future years.)
But surely no one would pay that kind of money for another digital signage platform? It must be the collaboration and workspace opportunity.
ESW doesn't often make mistakes in software: unlike many other private equity companies, ESW focus on software and founder Joe Liemandt appeared as the youngest self-made member in the 1996 issue of The Forbes 400. He's back on that list with $3 billion net worth.
He's putting up $12 million in cash and $3 million in Debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing (which locks in certain assets) that includes $750,000 now just to keep Prysm going.
You probably saw those large screens at ISE. Impressive.
While Laser Phosphor Display will live to fight again, the more interesting story may turn out to be what ESW does with the software assets.
ESW Capital has purchased dozens of small U.S. software companies with a strategy of moving their workforce to foreign freelance workers. Crossover, which is actually the recruiting wing of ESW, has an army of 5000+ workers in 131 countries (Ukraine to Pakistan to Egypt). In the past 12 years, ESW has quietly acquired some 75 software companies, mostly in the U.S., and it exports as many as 150 high-tech jobs every week.
ESW is one big reason why Austin (Texas, USA) is today recognized as a technology hub.
Utilizing XTP scaling receivers, XTP WindoWall enables a mix of full screen and image magnification across multiple displays. Up to 8 videowalls can be supported within an XTP system, and up to 8 assignable presets are available per wall for quick and easy viewing between different image arrangements.
Convenient software features such as drag and size layout configuration, mullion compensation, and the ability to create multiple presets expedite the setup process. XTP WindoWall makes XTP an ideal solution for adding videowall functionality to a board room or expanding XTP system capabilities within emergency operations centers and other mission-critical applications.
XTP Systems provide a completely integrated switching and distribution solution for multiple digital and analog formats. They support local connectivity as well as extended transmission capability for sending video with resolutions up to and beyond 4K/60 @ 4:4:4, audio, RS‑232/IR, and Ethernet up to 330 feet (100 meters) over shielded CATx cable, and up to 10 k m (6.21 miles) over fiber optic cable.
Each system is HDCP-compliant, and delivers ultra-fast, highly reliable digital switching with Extron's SpeedSwitch Technology. With hot-swappable modular components, a wide selection of XTP transmitters and receivers, and advanced 24/7 system monitoring, XTP Systems are designed to provide continuous, trouble-free operation in the most critical applications.
Go Extron XTP Systems and Video Walls
Hikvision, which calls itself the world’s biggest maker of video surveillance equipment, has been banned since August from selling to U.S. federal government agencies on the grounds its products could pose a threat to security.) Launching the new LED display product line marks the entry of Hikvision into the global market for commercial digital displays.
The company is 42% owned by Chinese state investors and its two main founders. It pulls in nearly 30% of its 50 billion yuan ($7 billion) in annual revenue from abroad.
Hikvision says its new LED displays are designed specifically to meet the growing market demand from enterprise and public safety organizations, advertising companies, and the entertainment industry—an option for monitoring centers, meeting rooms, indoor and outdoor advertising screens, live spectator events, and a host of other scenarios.
Equipped with the unique Pix Master image processing technology, the maker says these displays offer improved image sharpness, dynamic contrast, saturation, and enhanced clarity from all directions.
Other features include:
- Remote control
- One-click color-temperature mode-switching
- Automatic dehumidification
- Blue light filtering
Additionally, Hikvision’s LED displays simplify joining screens together (for video walls) via a standardized structure for easy installation and maintenance.
Panasonic incorporates the Intel Smart Display Module (SDM) in a refreshed 4K LCD display lineup at ISE 2020, with higher brightness models and new designs suitable for digital signage and smart retail applications.
The SQ1H series offers 86-, 75-, 65- and 55-inch models, all with increased panel brightness reaching 1000cd/m2 or 2000cd/m2. This ensures content is displayed clearly even when installed in shop front windows, sunlit environments such as atriums and lobbies, or built-in outdoor kiosks. The displays are also the first to feature the Intel SDM slot, enabling use in retail applications requiring integrated computing capabilities. For instance, a display including a camera running facial recognition software on the SDM module can identify passersby and play tailored advertising or marketing offers.
The Intel SDM standard easily integrates into the slim design of the SQ1H series, and is compatible with the Windows, Linux and Android operating systems. It also provides future-proof connectivity by supporting multiple generations of Intel processors, higher bandwidth capabilities and future higher resolution displays.
To further capture the attention of passersby the displays feature an HDR-compatible 12-axis colour management function allowing display of a wide range of contrasts. The displays also meet the BT.2020 standard to deliver rich colour 4K images. Connectivity comes through a single LAN cable, and the displays are compatible with DIGITAL LINK to reduce costs. A USB media player function enables the operation of digital signage without need for a dedicated player.
Also on show at ISE 2020 is the SQE1 series, a refresh of the current SQ1 series adding wifi capability while maintaining the features expected from a premium public signage range. Panel sizes range from 98- to 43-inch, and all feature durable designs suitable for vertical installation and 24-hour operation in public environments such as train stations, airports and commercial facilities. The range includes the Intel SDM slot and a wide range of connectivity (HDMI, DisplayPort in/out, USB-C), making it easy to connect with various playback equipment and expansion boards. It also includes built-in speakers for playing audio content.
A final display range is the CQE1 series. Designed for meeting room or classroom use, the range offers 7 models in sizes ranging from 98- to 43-inch, all with 4K picture quality. Panasonic claims continuous operational capability reaching 16 hours a day, and built-in VESA compatibility allows for easy mounting using a general purpose bracket. Connectivity includes HDMI and USB-C, and built-in speakers allow for audio.
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ISE 2020 sees NEC sharing its vision of the future for the changing nature of modern corporate and business environments, as enabled by digital signage, collaboration and connectivity technologies.
Products on show include the professional-grade P506QL, P605UL and PX1004UL projectors aimed at meeting rooms and corporate rooms, as well as the large venue single-chip DLP PX2000UL. Also seen is the InfinityBoard, an all-in-one collaboration display for professional users, enhanced with the Quicklaunch meeting application and NEC Room Management Service platform.
The 65-inch PCP Touch Table demonstrates interactivity and object detection capabilities, opening signage opportunities for product promotion in retail. The NEC ALP (Analytics Learning Platform) business intelligence platform shows how to create experiences and deliver customer insights. In addition, the Raspberry Pi-powered NEC MediaPlayer presents convenient out-of-the box operation and content control, standalone or via network.
NEC also previews some upcoming display technologies, such as the M Series range of large format displays offering modular computing capabilities with SDM and Raspberry Pi Compute Module. Together, they deliver superior colour accuracy, reliability and future-proofing. Finally, the company demonstrates the Direct View LED-FA009i2-165 bundle and the video wall UX Series UX552S displays for mission-critical applications.
“Good communication is multi-directional,” NEC says. “When we communicate with our colleagues and customers through open and transparent channels using the latest technology, we work together more easily and for better outcomes. We’re showcasing a wide of array of display technology and collaboration solutions here at ISE, and we can’t wait to share our ideas on the future of visualisation.”
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e-Paper technology long ago became much bigger than just e-books, now encompassing everything from meeting room displays to truck-side ads, bus stops, community hubs and much more. Electronic paper is robust, requires very little power and can be easily used in almost all conditions-- "the only display technology that checks all the boxes of versatile indoor and outdoor use," says Visionect.
Visionect have been using e-paper to transform locations into smart spaces-- a mission that will continue with further improved focus on end-to-end solutions providing more effective, relevant and non-intrusive real-time information in public environments.
Interconnected digital signs are a key element in the transformation of a city into a smart space-- and are crucial in empowering the transportation industry to make traffic better for everyone.
To support a truly intelligent and sustainable urban environment, however, the signage should be affordable, energy-efficient and independent from the power grid. This is why, says the company, you can already find Visionect-powered devices at airports, bus stops, train stations and anywhere else real-time information is needed. The technology has been at work in smart cities across the globe (Visionect-supported smart signage hubs are in Sydney, Auckland, Atlanta and Boston), operating in the most demanding conditions with "an impeccable zero failure rate and an even more impressive low-power consumption."
Empowered by the success of their end-to-end meeting room solution (Joan) and supported by increased user demand and a rapidly growing market, the company has now decided to step up their focus to work on end-to-end products, easy-to-use and scalable solutions to improve information sharing in public environments.
In short: What Joan is already for meetings, they hope Visionect Outdoor Display Solutions will soon become for the outdoor world.
All of their future products and solutions will continue to be built on Visionect`s core technology, cutting-edge e-paper, now modular and enriched with features that support the implementation of the smart city agenda while plugging into the ecosystems that application providers already have in place.
To communicate the evolution of their business and to showcase the new direction of their products, they will be heading to Integrated Systems Europe (ISE 2020) to show how Visionect public communications solutions can help improve the everyday realities of urban living.
]]>Extron is working with industry-leading display manufacturers to guarantee consistent, stable presentation of source content when using professional displays with the Quantum Ultra 4K Videowall Processor. Displays that pass an extensive testing program are identified as Quantum Ultra Certified.
The first Daktronics product to earn Quantum Ultra Certification is the NPN-4100 Series LED Video Wall Display utilizing the DI-6000 Display Interface.
“Videowall applications demand the highest level of dependability and performance, especially in mission-critical environments,” says Casey Hall, Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Marketing at Extron. “The Quantum Ultra processor’s configurability and capabilities, such as support of 4K/60 video, combined with installation of Quantum Ultra Certified displays mean dependable videowall performance from integration to operation, including 24/7 applications.”
The Quantum Ultra video wall processor offers high performance features, including output rotation, output overlap, bezel compensation, and custom output resolution support, making it the perfect companion for a diverse array of display technologies.
The Quantum Ultra certification program eliminates compatibility concerns. System designers can take comfort knowing that the image processing and display products have been tested together using established parameters, such as image acquisition, image stability, and EDID management. By specifying a Quantum Ultra Certified display, you can streamline videowall integration, reducing the need for on-site troubleshooting.
Planar was the first videowall manufacturer to offer displays earning Quantum Ultra Certification. The two models to receive certification were the Planar DirectLight X 1.2 mm LED Video Wall System and the Clarity Matrix G3 MX55X LCD Video Wall System.
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Barco announces an addition to the UniSee LCD video wall range-- the UniSee 500, with brightness levels reaching 500cd/m² making it ideal for environments with controlled and reduced lighting conditions.
Aimed at meeting rooms, TV studios, simulation systems and smaller control rooms, the UniSee 500 features what Barco claims is the smallest optical seam yet, almost eliminating the "black raster" effect seen in other LCD video walls. Meanwhile the platform is completely redesigned, bringing a "huge step forward" in image quality, installation precision, serviceability and reliability.
The UniSee Mount automatically alights the video wall and keeps it aligned over time (via the power of gravity), providing superior image uniformity. Automatic colour and brightness calibration comes through SenseX, while the upgraded UniSee Connect module allows for faster setup and maintenance. A wizard guides the user through the installation process, and individual panels are automatically recognised at the right position of the video wall. A local dimming feature allows for higher contrast, lower radiated heat and reduced power consumption.
The UniSee 500 also benefits from an ecosystem of tailored components, such as touch overlays, trim solutions and additional mounting structures, including a specially designed curved mounting solution for the creation of video walls with a concave curvature.
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Professional display and digital signage maker AG Neovo focuses on "Out-of-the-box Signage and Collaboration Display Solutions" at ISE 2020, with a showcase of display technology aimed at collaborative meetings and smart signage management.
The company highlights the Meetboard, a plug-and-play meeting and collaboration solution. Available in 65-, 75- and 85-inch sizes, the Meetboard promises quick starting meetings thanks to intuitive software (Meetboard App) and interactive apps (WPS Office and ScreenShare Pro). Meeting participants can share files via email, QR code or cloud drive, and the solution ships complete with video conferencing capability.
Also on show from AG Neovo is the range of cloud-enabled Neovo Signage displays. The NSD-Series 4K displays incorporate Neovo Signage, a cloud-based content management system (CMS) offering remote signage content and device management solutions, as well as smart publication and interactive displays.
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At DSE 2019, Sharp launches two new
lines of 4K UHD (3840 × 2160) resolution commercial displays.
Sharp’s PN-HM Series includes the PN-HM651 65” Class (64 ½” diagonal), PN-HM751 75” Class (74 9/16" diagonal) and PN-HM851 85” Class (85 9/16” diagonal) displays. They each provide a brightness of 500 nits, are designed for 24/7 environments and are built to handle a range of signage needs, from simple set-ups to large networks with multiple displays.
The new PN-HB Series includes the PN-HB651 65” Class (64 ½” diagonal), PN-HB751 75” Class (74 9/16" diagonal) and PN-HB85185” Class (85 9/16” diagonal) displays. They each have a brightness of 350 nits, are designed for everyday 16/7 operation and are ideal for most well-lit environments, featuring versatility in commercial settings.
Both new lines deliver digital signage straight out of the box with a built-in system-on-a-chip (SoC) controller.
Over at rAVe Publications, co-founder Gary Kayye has been saying for years that the future of displays is built-in, thin-client computers (eliminating the need for a computer in the room and opening up the possibility of cloud-based content delivery) and both display lines come with Sharp’s integrated system-on-a-chip (SoC) controller driven by an ARM Cortex hexa-core processor. The displays support both H.264/AVC as well as H.265/HEVC. The latter is a next-generation, high-efficiency video codec that reduces the communication burden during video transmission and gives content a new level of depth and presence.
This platform also allows third-party software developers to create custom signage applications, allowing for rich possibilities for digital signage in retail, office and other settings. Sharp has alliances with various developers through its Sharp Open Architecture Program, including Appspace, Enplug, Capital Networks, Industry Weapon, Navori, Novisign, Omnivex, Onsign TV, PingHD, Revel Digital and Starmont.
Certification under the Google Compatibility Test Suite (CTS) assures compatibility with third-party Android apps. Moreover, the displays feature a pre-installed HTML5 browser and supports high-speed wireless LAN and features built-in Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to deliver content and connect equipment wirelessly.
When the displays are powered on, a built-in media player automatically starts playing content stored in internal storage or on a USB memory device or microSD card. A simple schedule function allows users to pre-register seven patterns for when to start/stop the content playback. Users can also make playlists that combine still images and videos, all without any extra software, special skills, or even a PC. This capability allows for cloud-based content providers to serve content to the displays in the future.
The displays also come bundled with Sharp’s e-Signage S software, which supports creating, scheduling, distributing and managing a wide range of signage programs on Sharp LCD displays, as well as creating editing signage programs through simple drag-and-drop operation.
All of the new displays can be installed in landscape or portrait orientation, or even face up. They can also be tilted – either backward up to 90 degrees or forward up to 20 degrees. Up to four displays can be set up in a daisy chain configuration, allowing users to display the same content simultaneously on all screens.
The PN-HM751 and PN-HB751 smart 4K Ultra-HD displays will begin shipping in USA in April, while the PN-HM651, PN-HM851, PN-HB651 and PN-HB851 will ship later this spring 2019.
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