SVI Magazine May Issue 72 - Draper Group Ltd

UPGRADE IN STORE
FOR IMERGE USERS
Media server manufacturer Imerge is offering its
customers exciting new functionality following
the launch of its XiVA Music Store. Described as a
“next generation music store”, XiVA currently offers
in excess of 8.5-million DRM-free 320kbps MP3
tracks, as well as a graphically-rich user interface,
which takes the form of a 3D card-based menu
complete with high-res cover art. The store will be
integrated into Imerge’s media server hardware,
enabling users to purchase and download music
directly to their home entertainment systems.
The store has been developed in conjunction
with digital media delivery company 7digital and
went live following UK and US launch events at the
end of March. The first product to benefit from the
new functionality is the MS1-HD, with other products
following in due course. The store is also expected to
be available via non-Imerge hardware in the future.
Cameron Wade, CEO of Imerge, commented:
“We all know that downloading media content direct
to consumers homes is the future, but the concept
of purchasing, receiving and storing digital media
via dedicated entertainment devices, as opposed to
computers, is still in its infancy. As you might expect
from the company that developed the very first audio
server component in the 90s, Imerge has taken a giant
leap forward with the XiVA Music Store, delivering a
unique content browsing and purchasing experience.
As ever, Imerge’s dedication to innovation ensures
we stay several steps ahead of the competition.”
Contact: +44 (0)1954 783 600
www.imerge.co.uk
SMART PAD
With Apple’s iPad now available, we’ve been inundated with stories of manufacturers taking
advantage of its versatility and aesthetic appeal. One such is AMX, which has announced that its
systems and devices are controllable via the device. “AMX continues to champion a standardsbased
philosophy that simplifies technology integration, offers end users more choices and
expands automation technology awareness,” commented Robert Noble, the company’s Chief
Technology Officer. “We currently support the integration of most PCs, netbooks and tablets
using browsers like Windows Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox and Apple Safari. AMX also
supports smart devices like cellphones that utilise Android, Apple OS, Blackberry and Windows
Mobile technologies; MP3-players and future connected devices that use web browsers and/or
VNC applications.”
Two applications are available, one pre-designed and one customisable interface for using
devices like the iPad to control an AMX system, and nothing new will be required to integrate
Apple’s latest innovation.
Visit: www.amx.com/ui/apple.asp
CEDIA MAKES CAMP
CEDIA has had a busy first quarter of the year. In March, the Association ran its first EST I Residential
Boot Camp, and feedback has been positive from the delegates who attended. Held at CEDIA’s St
Neot’s HQ, the three-day course set out to give new arrivals to Custom Installation an invaluable
insight into the industry.
Part of the new structure of Electronic Systems Technician (Installer) certifications in 2010, the
camp is an intensive course that seeks to bring CI novices up-to-speed and afford them the skill
and knowledge necessary to get started. Aimed particularly at junior electronics systems technicians
searching for an understanding of basic site safety, protocol, cable handling and cable termination,
the course provides the knowledge necessary to pass the JIB health and safety exam, which in turn
leads to the award of a JIB ECS (Electrotechnical Certification Scheme) card.
“We work within an industry that is dynamic, exciting and attractive to outsiders,” explained
CEDIA Education Manager, Peter Aylett. “At CEDIA we are committed to maintaining both the
professional integrity of this industry and to helping it grow through the cultivation of new talent.
This latest course introduces new installers to CEDIA and our education offering, and gives them a
grounding in the core skills required to get a foot in the door.”
Contact: +44 (0)1480 213 744 | www.cedia.co.uk/education
Would-be installers found the Residential Boot Camp invaluable
www.svimag.com 33