Crestron Electronics has added new points of control for unified communications systems, making it easier than ever to take advantage of in-room automation for every meeting or presentation. Crestron Control has long been available on Crestron Flex solutions, and this latest expansion brings native control to more UC platforms. What was historically handled with two separate devices has been simplified into a singular interface, cleaning up the table and removing barriers to grant more users access to leading room controls from Crestron.

Through direct integration with the UC platform providers to streamline the meeting experience, users can reach their Crestron Control solutions from any hardware vendor. Previously introduced with Zoom Rooms software, Cisco Webex meetings, and the Google Meet platform, Crestron Control is now available on Microsoft Teams Rooms on Windows OS with page flip integration. The control page fits seamlessly with each UC platform, creating an effortless transition for users to go from meeting controls to room controls. With Crestron Construct configuration software, the control GUI can match the standard platform interface, creating a familiar user experience and keeping control at their fingertips from one device.

Even if an organization has selected another provider for UC hardware, control is now only a tap away, and users can access the most seamless control experience from Crestron. Crestron Control brings meetings to life while simplifying the experience for any user.

Crestron Control has a legacy of managing small huddle rooms to the most complex, mission-critical spaces. Now, that flexibility expands beyond room size and complexity to bring added versatility and choice to the interfaces where these controls are selected. With this latest expansion, users can leverage the reliability and expansive features of Crestron Control, regardless of the UC platform and hardware provider.

For More Information: crestron.com

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Maulik Unadkat, Founder of Beyond Alliance, traces the company’s humble beginnings to its future growth trajectory. He outlines their dedication to personalized automation solutions, simplifying things for clients.

Founded in 2008, Beyond Alliance originated as a specialized Crestron Home Automation System Integrator. Over the past decade, they have evolved into a comprehensive technology design firm, offering end-to-end solutions in Automation, Audiovisual (AV), Networking, and Electronic Security.

From their humble beginning as a three-person company, they have expanded into a formidable team of over 125 certified professionals, boasting expertise in THX, HAA, ISF, Crestron, and KNX technologies. Their team is driven by a shared passion for digitally transforming lifestyles and enhancing the way people interact with their surroundings.

With the establishment of five state-of-the-art experience centers in Mumbai and one in Surat, Beyond Alliance stands out as the sole residential system integrator in India with such a widespread presence. These centers serve as hubs for innovation, allowing them to showcase cutting-edge solutions and stay at the forefront of technology trends. Beyond Alliance, is committed to user-friendliness and ensures that their solutions not only meet technological standards but also enhance the overall comfort and convenience of our clients.

In a tete-a-tete with Smart Home World, Maulik Unadkat shares the company’s vision, services and more…  

 Beyond Automation is one of the most reputed companies in the industry. Can you take our readers through your journey so far?

We see this as more than just reputation; it’s a responsibility. Presently, annually trusted by over 100 Interior Designers, Architects, and 250 High Net Worth Individuals (HNIs) to seamlessly integrate technology into their spaces, we grasp the importance of upholding this trust and ensuring technology harmonizes with their designs. With our 15 years of industry experience, Beyond Alliance has grown remarkably from a 12-person team in 2017 to a robust organization of 125 individuals. It’s the dedication and expertise of our team that have earned us the reputation as the most trusted company. 

In just the first two years, we passionately set up six experience centers, displaying the latest global technologies seamlessly adaptable to modern homes or workspaces. Beyond Alliance’s growth stems from assembling the right team, building robust infrastructure, and fostering fruitful collaborations. Moving forward, we pledge to maintain the trust our clients have placed in us and persist in innovating the integration of technology and design.

Can you share with our professional readers some of the revolutionary projects you have worked on, which have been a turning point in your career in terms of experimenting with new Luxury Home Automation, Smart Lighting, Audio Video and Electronic Security Segments or introducing innovative concepts?

Like the soul of any new space is its design, the brain is the technology behind it. There is a tech solution for every human need. Whether its Radisson Nashik or a 12,000 sq ft Penthouse in the concrete jungle of Mumbai, a modern co-working space or workspace for financial hubs in BKC, we understand very well how to design a user-friendly solution tailored to the needs of these specific user profiles. 

There are 2 non-negotiables for any tech design: (1) It has to work. (2) It must be easy to use yet fulfil all needs and It has to be value for money. 

The day we grasped this and understood the expectations of the HNI user, things took off for us. End users are discerning enough to distinguish between value and price. Both under designing and over designing the solution fail miserably.

What are the latest technological trends shaping the Home Automation, Office Automation, Audio Video and Electronic Security segments?

The controls are gradually shifting towards Apple HomeKit controls. Despite the globalization of technology advancements like KNX or DALI in automation, Dolby ATMOS in home cinema, and Wi-Fi 6 in networking, these developments have been present in India for over a decade. However, due to a lack of structured education or awareness, these technologies have remained accessible to select people. If designed optimally, these technologies could be made accessible and enjoyable for every home.

As the industry has matured, the focus has shifted towards innovation on the UI/UX front and designer keypads. The overarching goal is to enhance the user experience. Our commitment lies in deploying the latest technologies in every space we design, ensuring that the end user experience becomes progressively simpler and more intuitive. These technologies are here to stay, and our mission is to integrate them seamlessly, making them accessible to a broader audience.

Ambient light-rejecting screens, LED video walls, Short-throw-projectors, Dolby Atmos speakers, etc. are a few new technologies, what are the brands you integrate in most of your projects?

Technology keeps evolving every year and hence we keep visiting all global technology shows to keep ourselves updated. This inspires us to incorporate the new ones that appeal to us in our experience centers so that we can showcase the same to the end users. We try to remain as brand agnostic as possible so that our designing keeps the end user at the epicenter and not the brand. We love a few brands because of what value they deliver and they are all mentioned and continuously updated on our website (www.beyond-alliance.com) and instagram handle (@beyondallianceofficial).

What are the recent challenging projects where you’ve utilized Trendy Audio Video and Electronics Security? 

A project is never challenging for a technocrat. It’s the task of adapting the same technology to different user demographics with equal acceptability and efficiency that we continuously focus on. Due to fear of technology, many people are averse to it and choose to stay away. The technology we implement can sing, emote, listen, talk, and bring more life and magic into your home. Passion should drive the choice of timber for audio as you immerse yourself in a 4K Dolby Atmos home cinema certified to THX HAA and ISF calibration standards.

How have access and security solutions evolved for the residential market. What are the brands you prefer in your projects?

We have started offering integrated security solutions. A facial ID scanner is waiting to unlock the space at the speed and efficiency at which our iphone unlocks itself. This is just the beginning. As a visitor notifies you with the same gadget a display phone next to your bed helps you face time them before you let them in. The same display can stream music to every room and control the colour temperature and intensity of every light to set the right vibe for that time of the day.

We use IP based security and access control solutions from networking brands to secure the spaces we design.

How do you envision the home automation industry in 5 years?

The home automation industry is maturing, recognizing the necessity for certified professionals to integrate these systems effectively. The system’s quality depends on its integrator. Organizations like CEDIA, THX, HAA, and ISF are investing efforts in training, certifying, and enhancing the standard of design and education in integration projects. As more integrators recognize the importance of such certifications, the quality of end-user experience will improve, leading to exponential demand growth.

AI, gesture & Voice-Based tech is bound to catalyse innovation in this space. Most IoT based solutions are designed around switchboards and obsolete dimming technologies like triac/phase-cut dimming. Hence, we don’t really appreciate retrofit wireless solutions in home automation as they have too many limitations in terms of user friendliness and innovation. Above that, our design philosophy is always low on radiations keeping in mind health hazards radio frequencies bring in. Even the Wi-Fi network goes to standby mode with 67% less radiation when data exchange is hibernating. Our design philosphy is always low on radiations keeping in mind health hazards radio frequencies bring in. Even the Wi-Fi network goes to standby mode with 67% less radiation when data exchange is hibernating

As an expert what would you suggest architects and designers should invest to enhance clients’ security and energy- efficiency?

Education is the key. CEDIA is a great platform that uses CPDs (Continuing Professional Development) to bridge the gap between the design and build industry and system integrators. We have 2 CEDIA instructors on board who can deliver education seminars to interior designers and architects who are the biggest influencers and consultants to end users when it comes to any aspect of selection or design.

What is your future vision for your Company?

There is a huge demand supply gap in our industry. A lot of users aspire such technology but dont know what to invest in and why. The only way we can spread this awareness and reach more needs is through collabrations and partnerships. We believe in getting more and more passionate individuals to join the family of Beyond Alliance and help nurture it.

Click here to read full February issue – https://www.smarthomeworld.in/magazine-february2024/

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Appspace and Crestron have collaborated to make the desk scheduling process even easier for organizations with hybrid workforces. Appspace and Crestron have a long-standing partnership that has helped drive employee engagement and productivity through room scheduling, collaboration displays, and more. Through this enhanced collaboration, Crestron will now offer its desk scheduling solutions natively integrated with Appspace to provide efficient and seamless desk scheduling, right out of the box.

Employees can effortlessly reserve a desk from within the Appspace app, then check into the desk with a quick QR code scan via their phones or tap on the touch screen display, eliminating the need for multiple steps in the booking process. This both saves time and brings a user-friendly, consumer-like experience to desk reservations, delivering a positive workplace experience for employees on their in-office workdays.

 “Driving employee productivity is not a new business challenge,” said Paul Alley, Director of Technology and Alliance Partnerships at Appspace. “However, many organizations today recognize the importance of aligning productivity to the employee experience. Providing employees with an easy, frictionless way to reserve desks is a huge offering that goes a long way in saving time and optimizing workspaces.”

According to a Gensler Research Institute study, almost 20 percent of surveyed office workers in 2022 had unassigned workspaces, compared with 10 percent in 2020.

 “For many organizations, hot desks and hoteling spaces have been on the rise alongside the momentum of employees working more hybrid and remote work schedules in recent years,” added Bob Bavolacco, director of technology and alliance partnerships for Crestron. “The integration of Appspace within Crestron’s desk scheduling solutions makes this transition as effortless as possible for employees to reserve the spaces they need to work and collaborate effectively and efficiently.”

The post Appspace and Crestron Partner to Enhance Desk Scheduling System appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

In Conversation with Smart Home World, Koen Dekyvere, Export Manager, Basalte discusses the growth and expansion strategies of Basalte, their focus on creating an intuitive user experience, expanding their product line to include a wide range of smart home solutions and it’s plans to expand its presence in different markets around the world, specifically, in the Indian market.  

Can you tell us about your role at Basalte and the company’s emphasis on design and innovation in the home automation and control space? 

As the export manager at Basalte, I am thrilled to be a part of a company that is at the forefront of design and innovation in the home automation and control segment. I have been with Basalte since 2008 and it has been an exciting journey to be a part of the growth and success of the company. In my role as Export Manager, I am responsible for managing the company’s operations and strategy in all the countries where we do not have our own sales team.

We have our own sales teams in countries like Germany, Belgium, Holland, Spain, and China. We provide local technical support and conduct training and visits with designers and consultants. For all the other countries, we work together with local partners depending on the country or territory. For example, in India, we have a distribution partnership with Smato Technologies who take care of all commercial actions and technical support.  

How are Basalte’s products designed to be scalable and adaptable for different types of homes and buildings? 

At Basalte, we are dedicated to creating products that not only function perfectly but also exude luxury and refinement. Our focus on the high-end luxury market enables us to develop products that cater to the most exclusive and demanding interior designs and architectural masterpieces. Our products are designed to be highly adaptable and can be used in a variety of settings including commercial, industrial, schools, airports, and hospitals. 

We have made sure that our products are compatible with the major standards, systems and protocols worldwide such as Matter, KNX, Crestron on the CresNet Bus and Lutron. These are some of the most widely used light control systems in the market and we believe in offering our customers the flexibility to choose the system that best suits their needs. Additionally, we have expanded our product line to include a comprehensive solution, including a server with user interface, Basalte Home App, design speakers, and sound system integration to third-party audio-video products. Our aim is to bring the complete user interface for the Intelligence home and develop all products that serve that purpose.

We have a team of professional and senior engineers who are continuously researching upcoming trends in the home automation market and developing drivers and two-way automation drivers specifically for those needs. They ensure that the quality of our products is at the highest level, with a focus on making them easy to install, program and maintain so that once they are installed, customers do not have to worry about after-effects or maintenance of the product. The idea is that the products are “fit and forget” and will last forever.

Can you discuss the role that user experience plays in the design of Basalte’s products, and how the company approaches this aspect of its product development?

At Basalte, user experience is a key aspect in the design and development of our products. We understand the importance of creating solutions that are intuitive and easy to use for the end customer, which is why we put a lot of emphasis on this aspect of our product development. Our focus on the high-end luxury market allows us to create products that are tailored to the needs of the most demanding customers, and we strive to make them as simple and user-friendly as possible.

We approach user experience from a holistic perspective, considering not just one product but the entire product line. We believe that all our products should work seamlessly together and that the user interface should be consistent across the entire range. This allows us to create a complete and cohesive solution that is easy to use and understand for the end customer.

We also consider feedback from our system integrators and dealers, but always keep the end customer in mind. We believe that technology should be simple and easy to use, and avoid making products too complex. For example, our motion sensors are small and flat, and fit perfectly in a high-end residential setting, while also being easy to use. We also keep the number of buttons on our keypads to a minimum and rely on other devices such as remote controls and touch screens to control other functions.

In short, user experience is a key aspect of our product development at Basalte and we approach it from a holistic perspective, keeping the end customer in mind and striving to create simple and easy-to-use solutions.

Can you discuss the role that research and development play in the evolution of Basalte’s product line and the company’s overall direction?

At Basalte, we believe in staying at the forefront of innovation and technology. That’s why we invest heavily in research and development to constantly improve and evolve our product line. We understand that the smart home market is constantly changing and evolving and we strive to keep up with the latest trends and advancements in the industry.

One of our major achievements is the development of a complete front-end solution for the intelligent home. This includes not just controlling lights, blinds, and temperature, but also music and AV integration. We have also introduced a multi-room audio solution, design speakers, the Miro universal remote, and third-party AV integration. This is all in line with our mission to create a seamless and intuitive user experience for our customers.

Our R&D team is constantly working on new and exciting products, and we are proud to announce that in 2023, we will be launching the Adelante Luxury Door Phone. This product was first introduced at the Light & Building trade fair, and later at ISE Barcelona. This new product is a perfect example of how we are always pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the smart home market.

How does Basalte approach the Indian market and what strategies does the company use to increase its sales and expand its presence in this market?

At Basalte, we understand the importance of having a targeted approach when entering new markets. In order to increase our sales and expand our presence in the Indian market, we will be implementing a threefold strategy. Our first steps in India were taken over 10 years ago through different partners, which allowed us to learn about the market and any difficulties that come with it, such as project follow-up, local sales and technical support, import and shipping issues, etc.

Now, we feel that the time is right to take things in India to the next level. We have recently appointed Smato Technologies as our new national distribution partner in India. This partnership allows us to have better control over the market, and our dealers will benefit from local support and supply, as well as local marketing and sales activities. We believe that this will largely contribute to more project leads for our dealers and increase awareness of Basalte among architects, designers, and decision-makers.

We also believe that by working with a local distribution partner, we can develop the market in a better way and accelerate growth in the Indian market. Smato will handle the coordination of the price structure, coordination of projects, and communication with architects, designers, consultants, and project developers. In the past, we have handled the Indian market in a retroactive way, but now, with Smato as our main actor in India, we can do it in a more proactive way, by approaching projects and proposing our solutions to customers.

Furthermore, we want to make sure that Basalte is not just seen as a keypad brand, but as a luxury home automation ecosystem. The main role of our partnership with Smato is to enhance education in the market about Basalte’s products. This will be done through a threefold strategy which includes visiting top-tier interiors and architects with physical demo kits, working with limited but good quality system integrators that can maintain after-sales service, which is an integral part of the Basalte solution and the third is to continue to educate the market about our products.

How does Basalte plan to continue expanding and growing as a company in the future, both in terms of its product line and its presence in different markets around the world?

As a company, we at Basalte are constantly striving to improve and evolve our product line, as well as expand our presence in different markets around the world. In terms of our product line, we are always looking to increase our share in smart home projects, and even increase the total smart home budget by offering an intuitive and luxurious experience to the customer. We are developing further on some products based on KNX and Bluetooth technology, and have recently launched our door phone system, Adelante. In addition, we see huge potential for growth in AV Solutions, speakers, audio integration, and access systems.

In terms of expanding our presence in different markets, we have recently invested in expanding our North American team, and have just closed a deal to set up an office, showroom and training center in Salt Lake City. We are also investing in other parts of the world such as Germany, Holland and Spain, by setting up showrooms and training centers in these locations. This will bring the Basalte concept closer to the end customer, and ultimately create more projects with a small number of dealers, but a larger growth in the number of projects.

In India, we are thrilled to be working with Smato Technologies as our exclusive distribution partner. We believe that with their knowledge and expertise in the Indian market, we will be able to increase our sales and expand our presence in this market in a meaningful way.

Our goal is to provide our customers with a sophisticated and performant Basalte ecosystem that offers an intuitive and luxurious experience. By expanding our product line and building strong partnerships, we believe that we will be able to achieve this goal and continue to grow as a company.

The post In Conversation with Koen Dekyvere, Export Manager, Basalte appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

MACBEE (India) is one of the leading Smart Automation Companies providing smart automation solutions for Luxury Home Cinemas, Integrating Smart Homes, IT & Networking Acoustic Consultancy
Audio & Video Calibration. This New Delhi-based company has been in news for winning  CEDIA Award in The Multi Dwelling Unit Design category for DLF – The Camellias

The proud winner Sawan Nichani, Founder Macbee (India) says, “The design and integration of the cinema room/performance hall were undertaken by our team. Our innovative and intricate design was appreciated and recognized by CEDIA experts and awarded the following category: Global Home Cinema; Best Home Cinema (EMEA); Best Documentation (EMEA) and Best Dressed Rack (EMEA).

Design and Innovation

DLF – The Camellias is an 18-acre site, which is a creative blend of urban infrastructure and wholesome living. A quarter of the site is dedicated to the nine community towers, which include 429 residence units. The remaining 13.5 acres are exclusively designed to be a futuristic hub of entertainment and holistic well-being, including an all-exclusive clubhouse and an ever-expansive golf course with over 25,000 trees. “The project is described by The Times-UK as a “Sustainable Super Luxury Development” and is the first in the country to be accredited with LEED Platinum certification, the highest rating by the US Green Building Council.” Informs Sawan Nichani.

Experts from building design, lighting, landscaping, audio-video integration, automation, and interior decoration (including local artisans) were handpicked to rise to the challenge of customizing a never before seen living experience. MACBEE (India) was brought on board to customize and integrate numerous aspects of the entire blueprint, including cinema design, audio-video distribution, integration control, intercommunication systems, lighting ambiance, and networking solutions across the site. “In short, the team was tasked to proficiently design a single,easy-to-use, command point to de-clutter all the technology, activities, and macros happening behind the scenes.” Informs Sawan Nichani.

Space Planning and Interiors

The performance objective of the clubhouse described in three words is – “multiple energy zones”. Spanning 160,000 sq. ft., the clubhouse has been segregated into the following energies: Social, Competitive, Active, Relaxed and Regenerated.

The clubhouse has been designed across two levels: The Upper Level is split into part A and part B which includes: A world-class multi-cuisine restaurant, a piano bar, a bakery and coffee shop, and Meeting Rooms.

The lower level includes a multipurpose hall (cinema room that can be converted to a live performance hall), an auditorium, a banquet hall, a ballroom, a sports lounge and bar, a karaoke room, Indoor sporting facilities (table tennis, pool, snooker, squash, boxing ring, rock climbing wall, etc.), Outdoor sporting facilities (tennis, badminton, etc.), a gym,  a jogging/cycling track, a bowling alley, a vitality pool, a floatation pool, a jacuzzi, a Spa & Ayurveda room, a salt room, a  yoga room, a pilates room, a children’s play area, and a daycare center.

Technical expertise provided by team Macbee (India):

Audio Distribution:

• The audio distribution comprises customized media servers for each of the 9 zones in the clubhouse as well as 9 zones in the residence lobbies. Each server is programmed per the energy zone it is situated in and includes custom playlists that vary per the time of day to offer a distinct ambience.
• As guests transition from one area to another within the clubhouse, consistency in the audio intensity is programmed to ensure a seamless transition from zone to zone.
• Line array solutions elevate the audio performance in the bar area and ballroom.

Video Distribution:

55 display screens and TVs and 16 video sources are included across the site. Crestron NVX VoIP was used to ensure image quality, latency and security and deliver real-time images at a quality that is indistinguishable from the source. 

Integration Control

• The integration control solution is a true intangible – discrete and indispensable. It is the backbone of the entire project and the single point of operation for all programmed macros – automatic or manual.
• The power and versatility of Crestron processors were used to integrate various subsystems across the site.
• A customized user-friendly GUI was programmed by our team to cater to the needs of the client of having all automated solutions controllable from a single device, and operable from any location.
• The user interface is made up of 200 custom pages to account for all possible permutations and combinations in this colossal project.
• To avail any solution, the user starts off by making a selection of which floor of the clubhouse needs to be operated (upper or lower), followed by the concerned zone/area, and lastly, the required feature to be operated.
• PIR sensors provide automated actions such as “occupancy room off”, triggered by the lack of movement for a prolonged time in the common bathroom areas.
• Additionally, the owners of the 429 ultra-luxury residence living units were offered the freedom to select their personalized integration backend platform for all controls, to ensure a seamless transition in their new home.

Networking:

The project employs speed fusion technology by Peplink to deliver superior and unbreakable connectivity throughout the site including the clubhouse, the outdoor regions, and the residence tower lobbies. This technology offers bandwidth bonding and WAN smoothing for uninterrupted internet connectivity and VoIP.

Intercom:

High call volume users require access to a clear and efficient way to easily route and control calls. Hence, the intercom system has been designed using VoIP.

Satellite TV:

The satellite TV system uses a set-top box by Tata Sky, the country’s premier DTH service provider.

Lighting Design:

• The team had a unique opportunity to create lighting concepts to reflect the five main energy zones of the clubhouse. While entering any energy zone, room lighting is one of the first elements of the experience to appeal to the guest.
• The project includes over 1,000 circuits and over 2,000 lighting fixtures, with a mix of direct lighting, indirect lighting, designer chandeliers, and more.
• Uncountable hours were dedicated to testing the lighting circuits for perfect ramping and anti-flicker with the output modules to ensure smooth operability.
• A majority of the lights are on a dimming protocol.
• Specially designed underwater RGB fiber optics are placed in the outdoor water area for buoyancy and radiance.
• Underwater lighting in the outdoor pool provides energetic dynamics.
• Lighting to accentuate the landscaping on the balconies, roof, and outdoor walkways of the clubhouse brings alive these often overlooked areas.
• Intense and indirect lighting highlights every passage and walkway throughout the clubhouse.
• DMX RGB lighting brings alive karaoke nights by submerging the guests in immersive audio and video experience.
• Coffer ceiling DMX RGB lighting in the bowling alleys offers the guests an electrifying and invigorating experience.

Lighting Control:

• Crestron provides the main control both behind the scenes and discreetly within the rooms with in-wall Crestron panels, programmed with custom GUI on each tablet.
• The lighting controls are a mix of DALI (majority), PhaseCut, 0-10 Volt dimming protocols, and on/off modules.

Shade Design and Control:

The curtains and blinds are timed to open and close based on an astronomical clock, which efficiently considers the movement of the sun per day as well as per season. Creston has been used as the backend for the shade control modules that can be controlled from the pre-programmed tablet. Additionally, area-wise keypads are installed in the server room to allow for manual control.

HVAC Control:

The HVAC control via Backnet is timed as well as temperature controlled. Temperature settings vary automatically based on the temperature of the day and can also be overridden individually as per the requirement of the clubhouse guests.

Pool, Spa and Gym

• The pool area is temperature controlled to ensure adequate heating or cooling.
• Each area of the spa has its own music based on the therapy of the room with individual volume control and playlist control customizable based on guest requirements.
• The gym includes a customized video wall with 8 screens to make a landscape scenario in front of the exercise cycles with natural scenes to offer the feeling of being in the midst of nature.

Automated Settings

Lighting Control:

• The lights across the site (indoor and outdoor) are timed. Different scenarios are set for daytime lighting as well as evening lighting.
• The morning scenario starts at sunset to gradually fade the lights and open the curtains.
• The evening scenario responds to the sunset when curtains close and ambient lighting starts.

Curtain control:

• All curtains and blinds are timed to include light streaming, light filtering, or light restriction.

Audio control:

• The audio in the clubhouse is programmed specifically per the requirements of the individual area/room to be in sync with the designated energy zone. All playlists are pre-programmed, but can also be manually selected.

Temperature control:

• The temperature control in the clubhouse is programmed specifically based on the season of the year as well as per the requirements of the individual area/room to be in sync with the designated energy zone.

Automated events with human intervention:

Video Distribution:

The video distribution has been programmed using macros to offer ease of use as well as customizability for clubhouse guests. Content/channels to be viewed are to be dropped (“pushed”) onto the indicated screen /TV as selected on the tablet.

Pool Temperature Control:

The temperature of the outdoor and indoor pool areas has been placed on macros to allow for customization based on the requirements of the clubhouse guests at such times.

Lighting override:

Macros have been programmed for lighting override where necessary based on the requirements of a specific event in the clubhouse.

On a parting note, Sawan Nichani concludes that saying, “The project uses Siemens for monitoring and management. Industry standards were considered by our team at each step of the project – from inception to customization and installation to integration. Through meticulous analysis, planning, blueprinting, and detailing in over 700 pages of documentation, the team has ensured compliance with international standards for both safety as well as efficient and seamless functionality. The project is future-ready in all respects. However, provisions have been included for possibilities of future scaling.”

BUILDERS: DLF Group

ARCHITECTS:

• Rockwell Group, New York

• The Wright Fit, New York

• GOCO Hospitality, Bangkok

• SWA, Los Angeles

• Isometrix Lighting + Design

• Hafeez Contractor

System Integration: Macbee (India)

The post Technology Meets Design! appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

The latest update of the Crestron Home® OS — version 3.15 — has several features taking center stage: new collaborations with high-end manufacturers such as Black Nova and GUDE, and the ability to remotely reboot most Crestron IP devices in a home.

Software Reboot of Crestron Devices in the Device Health Dashboard

“We’ve gotten a lot of great feedback on the power cycle feature for our Crestron power controllers in Crestron Home’s Device Health Dashboard,” says Jason Oster, Director of Product Management – Residential Solutions, Crestron. “If, for example, a cable box locks up, it’s a straightforward matter to power cycle that device with a single touch. Those features have been in Crestron Home for a few months now, and with this 3.15 update, we have extended even further what the Device Health Dashboard can do,” he adds.

“With this software reboot feature, it doesn’t matter if you have a Crestron power controller — you can reboot most Crestron IP devices from anywhere,” says Oster. “If something misbehaves, if a device is unresponsive, this allows for a remote reboot. Instead of rolling a truck, spending all that time and resources to perform a hard power cycle — or buying another PDU to be able to power cycle any Crestron devices in the rack — this can all be accomplished off-site. The process is extremely simple. From the Crestron Home app, or a Crestron Touch Screen, you can simply go to the Device Health Dashboard and right in the existing list of devices, if it can be rebooted, the reboot button will automatically be shown.”

Support for GUDE PDUs

In terrific news for European integrators (and their clients), Crestron Home® has added support for the GUDE line of German-made precision PDUs. These products are designed for AV IT experts, as GUDE is a familiar name to commercial and residential integrators in the EMEA region. Much like PDUs already offered by Crestron, one can power cycle devices through the Crestron Home app. GUDE is known for its high-quality and reliable switched PDUs with intelligent feature sets, such as remote reboot, extensive power metering, and surge protection. All these features mean faster service and increased operational safety.

Growing the Black Nova Partnership

The partnership with Black Nova is also expanding with this update, as Crestron Home will now support the elegant ARIA TT keypad, a luxurious glass panel with ten addressable touchpoints, and the ALBA M1, which includes a temperature display.

One of the key reasons Crestron was so keen to add Black Nova to Crestron Home was the company’s dedication to a wonderful experience for the end-user. “Black Nova’s products are as intuitive as they are beautiful,” says Alberto Mornico, CTO & Co-Founder, Black Nova. “We are always building control products that allow guests to live in an environment that doesn’t require a learning curve and delivers an unprecedented level of comfort, To that end — creating what the company calls a “customer-centric experience” — Black Nova has built an R and D department three to four times the size of a comparable firm,” adds Mornico.

Finding these elegant, simple solutions is a process driven by the dealers themselves. “All of this, of course, is helped along by dealer feedback,” says Oster. “Adjusting and expanding the platform to give integrators what they need is a top priority.”

The post Updates in Crestron Home 3.15 appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

Crestron Electronics, the global leader in home automation, today announces the addition of Spotify Connect to its expanding collection of digital music services available through the recently-launched DM NAX 8-Zone Network Streaming Amplifier. The latest firmware update enables Spotify Connect to be streamed to the DM NAX 8-Zone Network Streaming Amplifier via a wired or wireless home network connection for an elevated music experience coupled with customised control available directly through Spotify® music service or from any Crestron interface. 

Spotify Connect offloads the music streaming service from the mobile device to the DM NAX audio system creating a way for users to play music from their Spotify library on the audio product itself, rather than streaming it from a mobile device.  Spotify Connect enables instant switching from headphones to any room in the house and enables users to keep the music flowing with control from any mobile, tablet, or computer using the Spotify app.

“Spotify Connect is a fantastic addition to the Crestron DM NAX lineup and residential dealers will be excited to offer customers unmatched control from the Spotify app directly to a Crestron multi room audio system,” says Ekin Binal, Director of Audio Solutions at Crestron. 

The integration with the Crestron Home® platform brings a suite of unique features that improve the streaming experience throughout the home. Homeowners can access Spotify playback controls directly from the Crestron Home app on Crestron devices, mobile, or tablets, or add a new zone to their listening stream for seamless transitions from one area to another. 

Users can also play multiple streaming sessions throughout the home by syncing personal accounts. For example, music can play from one account as someone prepares dinner in the kitchen while a podcast is streaming from a different account for someone else in the home office.  Users can mark favourite songs or playlists from their Crestron Home interface and have them added as a preset for certain zones of the house so that a go-to summertime playlist is readily available for outdoor entertaining by the pool.

A Crestron software release for the DM NAX 8-Zone Streaming Amplifier to implement the upgrade is now available.

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Internationally acclaimed smart lighting control company, Casambi recently announced its partnership with Crestron, a global leader in commercial lighting control and automation. By joining the Casambi Ecosystem, Crestron plans to integrate Casambi control within its Zūm® lighting control portfolio.

This partnership will deliver cross-compatibility between Casambi’s wireless mesh network capabilities and the Crestron Zūm product line – a widely distributed lighting control system that uses industry standards, such as 0-10V, DALI®, DMX and phase control all merged on one enterprise IoT network.

This interoperability means Casambi’s Bluetooth wireless mesh can extend a Crestron Züm system to enable luminaire level control of any “Casambi Ready” light fixture by Züm control devices and software.

“This partnership will benefit both organisations in a meaningful way,” says Peter Augusta, VP of Sales, Casambi North America. “Crestron customers and representatives gain access to Casambi’s world-class wireless mesh network as a “snap-on” option for Zūm, while Casambi’s ecosystem expands to include the prestige of Crestron’s products and services.”

“Crestron is excited to work closely with Casambi to expand our Zūm ecosystem to integrate with ‘Casambi ready’ fixtures,” said Jim McGrath Executive Director, Lighting Business Development, Crestron.  “Working with manufacturers such as Casambi provides reliability to the specification community to ensure that control systems and fixtures are tested to integrate with each other prior to specification and deployment.”

“The Casambi Ecosystem is predicated on the notion that diversity plays a central role in helping the lighting industry to innovate and transform. We’re extremely pleased to have Crestron onboard”, said Kari Metälä, CEO, Casambi. “By joining the Casambi Ecosystem, Crestron can immediately leverage our core competencies in wireless lighting control while focusing on the value they create for their customers. Conversely, this cooperation will undoubtedly reinforce Casambi’s usability – especially in high-end offices and conference rooms – further strengthening our presence in North America, and indeed, globally”. 

Casambi’s system compatibility with Crestron products will benefit the industry in a big way by enabling smarter system installations to scale across a broad range of commercial applications, in addition to improving the integrated user experience with Zūm products via the use of Casambi smart wireless controls. As the Casambi Ecosystem grows throughout North America, its partnerships are making smart buildings smarter through the provision of large-scale lighting systems that are more reliably connected, secured, and effortless to control.

The post Crestron’s Products are now Compatible with Casambi’s Wireless Luminaire Level Control appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.

DM NVX Firmware 7 tackles faster refresh rates, Variable Bit Rate (VBR), and custom hot-key shortcuts addressing the market’s most demanding applications.

 Crestron, the global leader in workplace technology, announced the latest enhancements to the DM NVX® AV-over-IP platform. Since its introduction, DM NVX has evolved with feature-rich firmware updates that consistently deliver a reliable and high-performing solution to customers.

Crestron continues to adapt existing solutions with frequent upgrades and enhancements that provide increasing value to both new and existing customers while supporting new use cases and applications. Crestron DM NVX addresses the needs of the most demanding installations from mission-critical government control centers and Esports arenas to corporate boardrooms and demanding entertainment videowalls.

“Prioritizing our customers’ needs and mapping them to today’s most in-demand feature sets is a true testament to our customer-first approach,” said Andrew Ludke, Senior Director of Product Management, AV Solutions, at Crestron. “This has enabled customers of all sizes and verticals to trust in our industry-leading DM NVX AV-over-IP platform as a solution that evolves with their needs over time.”

The newest DM NVX features include:

• Faster refresh rates (up to 240 Hz at 1080p) deliver ultra-smooth fast-motion video, and real-time control of peripherals, such as a mouse, joystick, or game controller. 
• Variable Bit Rate (VBR) encoding optimizes network bandwidth consumption across a multitude of spaces.    
• Custom hot-key shortcuts from your keyboard provide extra convenience and quick access to common or critical commands, such as recalling a pre-set video configuration, source selection, display on/off, and lighting and shading control.  

As technologies, behaviors, and demands on collaborative infrastructure continue to evolve, so will the Crestron DM NVX platform. The DM NVX architecture is purpose-built and designed to continually add features and functionality making each encoder and decoder more valuable than when customers initially purchased them. Firmware 7 also has added security updates and patches to further enhance our already industry-leading support for enterprise-grade security standards. 

Crestron’s latest features are available for download on the DM Firmware page. To learn more about Crestron DM NVX, please visit https://www.crestron.com/Products/Featured-Solutions/DigitalMedia-NVX-Series.

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Frost & Sullivan, an American Business Growth Strategy Consulting firm offering market research and analysis across Asia, Americas, Africa & Europe, researched the global audio-video (AV) collaboration devices market and recognized Crestron, a global leader in workplace technologies and corporate automation, with the 2021 Global Audio Video Collaboration Devices Competitive Strategy Leadership Award, based on its findings.

Crestron is well-positioned to address the positive and negative sides associated with hybrid work, where teams are distributed among formal corporate offices, meeting spaces, and homes. The company’s strong commitment to delivering innovative corporate automation and unified communication (UC) solutions embodying flexibility, the best collaboration experience, as well as a high level of security, serviceability, reliability, and management, has made it ideal for government & educational institutions, and Fortune 500 enterprises around the world.

The award was given to the CRESTRON FLEX Video Conferencing Product Line & Platform, which is capable of handling a wide range of work environments. The video conferencing systems come as tabletop devices in multiple dimensions, front of the room, and wall mount choices. It also offers a UC engine with a dedicated processor that can run Microsoft Teams or Zoom cloud conferencing platforms natively.

The product range offers top-of-the-line quality, performance, and allows customers to tailor solutions according to various collaboration spaces and use cases. While the market is increasingly focusing on integrated AV and computer devices, Crestron is building comprehensive solutions using modular components that allow businesses to upgrade individual components more cost-effectively.

“The bulk of the Flex UC models are certified for Microsoft Teams Rooms and Zoom Rooms. Additionally, the Crestron Flex Phones, a suite of audio and video desktop phones for Microsoft Teams, address personal use cases and private collaboration spaces, enabling enterprises that have standardized on Microsoft Teams to also standardize on a single provider of certified endpoints across all spaces”, stated Vaishno Srinivasan, Senior Industry Analyst.

Crestron was one of the few prominent hardware providers to envisage and realize the requirement for a comprehensive portfolio of UC devices that natively support Microsoft Teams, given the significant increase in Microsoft Teams utilization over the last two to three years. This robust native product selection offers a uniform user interface across all devices, including ‘bring-your-own-compute’ (BYOC) in meeting rooms, dedicated meeting room devices, and corporate desk phones. This is especially relevant if a firm decides to go all-in on Microsoft Teams for all user categories and device kinds. As part of the Flex UC portfolio, Crestron has also produced a broad spectrum of Zoom-certified Flex UC systems as well as an open UC stack for all other standard-based video conferencing solutions.

Crestron delivers network security through its products and its XiO Cloud, an IoT-centric cloud-based management platform that provides customers with cutting-edge features and excellent service. Crestron has evolved into a well-rounded hardware provider in the AV collaboration area, and it is now assisting in the digital office revolution.

“Backed by a rock-solid strategy, Crestron has established itself prominently in a highly competitive market and grown its AV business significantly over the years,” said Srinivasan. “The strong demand for video in the return to the office fueled the growth of its Flex UC product line. The Flex Video Conferencing line is energized with new product models, expanded features, and an unceasing engineering pace. Crestron achieved significant double-digit unit and revenue growth rates, above market average, in the global video conferencing devices market in 2020, due to its strong engagement with Microsoft and Zoom, and we expect that strong growth to continue”, added Srinivasan. 

The post Frost & Sullivan Awards Crestron for Video Collaboration Solutions And Competitive Strategy appeared first on Smart Home World Magazine.