European Custom Installer

CEDIA releases "Wifi 6 (802.11ax): High Efficiency Wifi," a white paper diving into the latest wifi standard, one designed to address some of the most prevalent wireless networking issues and provide high efficiency wifi.

As the latest version of the wireless networking standard, Wifi 6 promises higher data rates, more robust connection and simultaneous data reception or transmission between access points and multiple client devices. CEDIA claims it will have "far reaching effects" for installers and customers, since it not only improves the performance but also brings a sales opportunity through the new naming conventions. After all, it represents a shift from names such as 802.11n and 802.11ax to Wifi 5 and Wifi 6, and the on-device logos should stir demand for network upgrades.

Crestron announces what it claims is a "groundbreaking" addition to the Home platform-- the integration of Home with Lutron lighting and shading control, specifically RA2 Select, RadioRA 2 and HomeWorks with QS and QSX control systems.

“Our top priority is to help our dealers deliver the best user experience in the industry to their clients, regardless of what brand of lighting controls and shades are installed,” Crestron says. “Crestron Home provides that experience. Because we recognise Crestron and Lutron products are used together so often, we were committed to working with Lutron to develop this special integration.”

The Josh.ai artificial intelligence grows further through integration with the Lutron HomeWorks QSX processor, allowing users to seamlessly control devices such as Ketra lights through the power of their voice.

After a button press authenticates the QSX processor, Josh.ai uses the Lutron LEAP integration protocol to automatically pull in Lutron floor plan configurations and device programming. The instant discovery and control of Lutron devices expedites the implementation process. Supported devices within native Josh.ai control include Ketra (Clear Connect-- Type X), dimmable lights, switched loads, shades, fans and keypads. A future update will include thermostat compatibility.

Leon announces an addition to the Tonecase line of technology concealment products-- the TcFIT-U, a universal solution for mounting any Sonos soundbar to a TV, including the recently released Sonos Arc.

The TcFIT-U system includes a signature Leon custom grille built to match the width of the TV, blending the soundbar with the display for a streamlined look. It comes in three models offering adjustable depth to accommodate all Sonos soundbars, namely the Beam, Playbar and Arc, and mounts directly to any TV up to 98-inch in size via undermount brackets.

Screen Innovations adds a mounting system for the compact form factor Solo and Solo Pro motorised screens-- the Solo Suspended Ceiling Mount System, a means to eliminate visible mounting hardware from the room.

The Solo Suspended Ceiling Mount System allows installers to mount the Solo low-voltage motorised screen cassette flush with the ceiling grid. Using the grid as the screen reveal eliminates the need for visible flush-mount trim, and allows installers to take advantage of the compact design of the Solo and Solo Pro. The system utilises a standard threaded rod to mount the brackets to the structure above. The cassette remains hidden from view, and the screen descends into the room through a thin opening.