Neets’ EasyConnect is an all-in-one connector box made to be integrated into a tabletop or lectern. The standard version accommodates all five typical connections for laptop computers and most tablet-type mobile devices (VGA, HDMI, RJ 45, 3.5mm audio and USB).

A sixth cable (optional) can be included to accommodate, for example, a DVI connector, an XLR microphone, 1/4” audio jack or RCA jack for composite video for K-12 applications. Cables are terminated at both ends.

The new EasyConnect Power is an addition to the EasyConnect Control, adding two power ports. There are three versions:

• 305-0250 Neets EasyConnect – Power EU, 2 x Power
• 305-0251 Neets EasyConnect – Power DK, 2 x Power
• 305-0252 Neets EasyConnect – Power UNI, 2 x Power

Go EasyConnect Power

Savant launches the wifi-based Universal Remote-- a sleek remote that, like other Savant user interface options, is self-configurating once connected to a home network, eliminating most (if not all) programming woes.

It supports menu screens for service control across the home and workplace without need for direct line of site (of course wifi problems result in remote problems).

Features include a 1.7-inch display, 35 assignable/programmable backlit buttons with common navigation and transport buttons, 2-way feedback from compatible devices (via wifi and Savant solutions) and an ergonomic design allowing for "effortless" one-handed operation.

Savant says wifi range is "extremely wide," the firmware is field upgradeable and the RacePoint Blueprint design tool allows for quick customisation.

Go Savant Unveils Self-Configuring Universal Remote Control

The big vendors too can play in the realm of palm-sized micro consoles-- Sony reveals the PlayStation Vita TV, a low-cost TV device packing the innards of the PS Vita handheld console in a small (6.4 x 10.5cm) device.

The console uses up to two regular Dual Shock 3 controllers (not included) to play around 1300 software titles from the Playstation Network digital games catalog, including PSOne, PSP and PS Vita titles.

In addition the Vita TV connects to the Vita handheld and, eventually, the Playstation 4 for gameplay on a second TV via Ad Hoc streaming. It should also find use in media streaming-- according to Sony the device connects to a number of online services, making it a rival to the likes of the Roku and Apple TV.

Sony says the Vita TV will be available in the Japanese market for all of 14994 yen ($100) on November 2013. No word on a European launch is available as yet, we will learn more about that soon enough.

Go Sony Introduces PlayStation Vita TV

The global pay TV STB market appears to be still in decent health-- according to Futuresource Consulting STB shipments will peak by 2016 at 180 million units, growing by 2% CAGR for the 2012-2016 period.

"Despite the overall STB market topping out this year, this is entirely due to erosion of the free-to-air segment," the analyst says. "We're going to see the trinity of cable, pay satellite and IPTV continue to perform."

STB vendors are also adding value and differentiation through additions such as increased storage capacity, multiple tuners, IP service/content integration and multiplatform environments.

Pay TV STB demand in developed markets (such as W. Europe) is saturated, but transition towards more advanced media gateways will have "a sustained and positive impact on revenues."

Analog Way’s new LiveCore series, now shipping, is available in two configurations: 8x2+1 for the NeXtage 16, and 12x4+1 for the SmartMatriX Ultra, Ascender 32 and Ascender 48. All of them feature an independent dual-link output with versatile display options including full preview and live mosaic. The LiveCore connectivity includes HDMI, DisplayPort and 3G/HD/SD-SDI inputs and each can be combined for display layouts – mixer, dual mixer, hard edge, vertical and/or horizontal soft edge.

The LiveCore systems include from 16 to 48 scalers (depending on the number of inputs) and are designed for live events. To make preparation and control of shows easier, Analog Way includes what they call WEB RCS (Web Remote Control Software) that’s basically a graphic interface consisting of 3 independent sections: Setup, Edit and Live. So, you can design, configure and completely run a show via Web RCS or from a separate controller.

Go Analog Way’s New LiveCore Series

Remote Technologies Incorporated (RTI) ships its line of expansion modules for its XP series control systems including the RCM-4 relay control module, the ESC-2 serial control module and the PCM-4 I/O (four MPIO ports and 12-VDC voltage trigger output) port control module.

When used with RTI accessory devices, each MPIO port can provide IR routing capabilities, one-way RS232 communication and power sensing. The ESC-2 allows installers to add two additional bi-directional serial ports and the RCM-4's four relays can be used in a normally open or closed configuration for control over everything from window shades to screen lifts.

Additionally, the PCM-4 and RCM-4 units can be powered by the included power supply or Power over Ethernet (PoE).

Go Wikipedia-PoweroverEthernet

Go RTI XP control system