Now, for just a few hundred euro, integrators can use an all-in-one Gigabit solution to blow past Ethernet’s 100m distance limit (328 feet). For example in IP security, you can deploy multiple far off HD IP cameras out to 240 m (800 feet) away, through a single unit, or up to 610m (2000 feet)away, in series or tree.

Ethernet Extension Experts brings out the Enable-IT 828 with three built-in PoE Gigabit Ethernet ports and a ruggedized aluminum case, along with options for PoE injection via Midspans, and standalone injectors.

In AV, it's all about the network these days. Yet now that we are ready to engage the digital shift to networked video, it's clear the network infrastructure isn't prepared with video in mind.

We need internet access, WLANs, routers, network storage, uninterrupted power and more--but most of that networking kit was designed in that "data-is-king" days and hasn't changed.

If that sounds like the perfect business opportunity, meet Niveo Professional. An international company with a Dutch and UK headquarters, Niveo launches a range of networking product designed specifically for audio/video installation.

"We're providing an alternative to those traditional networking suppliers who don't specialize and who don’t come from an AV background," says Arthur C.D. de Jager, Niveo’s Managing Director. He doesn't have to name these companies but we know he means HP, Cisco, Netgear... the IT guys.

The increasingly cloud-based modern era demands more and more data centers, each housing hundreds of servers. Servers demanding power to not only run, but also to stay cool (up to 50% of server power goes for cooling). What if we find good use for that wasted server-generated warmth-- like heating homes?

Researchers at the University of Virginia and Microsoft are presenting this concept in "The Data Furnace: Heating Up with Cloud Computing." The research paper suggests companies should place servers inside homes, replacing traditional furnaces-- thus the "data furnace" in the title.

The first of such data furnaces would probably find homes in office basements and apartment buildings, but the researchers have another proposal relating directly to the home-- the micro data center. A broadband-connected home could house 2 or 3 server cabinets instead of a furnace, with each cabinet holding enough motherboards to generate heating for colder climates.

However one would have to shut down the machines should temperatures reach over 35 degrees, in order to avoid overheating.

Some European countries are already getting into the data furnace act-- in Helsinki heat generated by data centers is distributed to neighbouring buildings via insulated pipes, while IBM Research-Zurich is also designing a system carrying server-generated heat through water pipes.

Cheap-as-free heating thanks to the cloud? Sounds like a pretty good deal to us.

Go The Data Furnace: Heating Up with Cloud Computing

Wi3 suggests a different means to handle home networking with the in-wall WiPNET solution-- using existing coax cables to deliver wifi and ethernet, without disrupting any TV services.

Through a "cartridge and sleeve" design, it allows the easy selection (and swapping) of various solution depending on connection needs, such as IPTVs and STBs requiring an internet connection.

It uses MoCA technology to layer ethernet over any other signal on coax. Setup needs the connection of one CAT5 cable from modem/router to a WiPNET ethernet port-- the system automatically configures the entire network.

Go Wi3 WiPNET

The Wireless Gigabit Alliance (WiGig) announces the first PlugFest event-- where alliance members will test the interoperability of devices using the WiGig standard.

The event runs for 3 days and is organised in collaboration with MET Labs and UL CCS, two leading independent compliance, testing and certification houses, and key test instrumentation provider Agilent Technologies.

The event marks a transition for WiGig-- from technology specification (currently standing at version 1.1) to actual commercial products running the ultra-fast 60Hz standard.

The alliance says WiGig-enabled devices will hit the market at around either late 2012 or early 2013.

Go World's First WiGig Technology PlugFest

Cisco launches what it says is the first wireless IPTV service in the industry, featuring new wireless receivers and wireless access points (WAPs) to deliver both SD and HD video services throughout the home.

The system features 2 offerings from the Cisco Videoscape portfolio-- the ISB7005 wireless receiver and the VEN401 WAP.

One WAP per home supports up to two receivers.

The wireless receiver delivers both live TV channels and interactive services while acting as a Total Home HD DVR, allowing the wireless viewing and management of DVR recordings from a wired DVR.

Currently the Cisco solution is only available in the US (via AT&T) but one can assume European video operators (not to mention customers) will also find it quite attractive.

Go Cisco Launches Integrated Wireless TV Solution