Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Elan g! Controls Breathtaking Outdoor Theater And Multi-Zone Audio System

Not all outdoor home theaters are created equal. They don’t all feature a super-bright 5,500 lumen 1080p Digital Projections projector, a permanently installed Stewart StarGlas 102” glass rear projection screen, or a 2,000 Watt surround sound system.  Even rarer is a professional-grade poolside entertainment center that really goes the distance, combining iPad and iPhone control of the LED landscape lighting, Jandy pool equipment, and the pool house HVAC and multi-zone audio system through the ELAN® g! Home Entertainment and Control system.  But this awe-inspiring outdoor media Shangri-la does exist, and it’s thanks to the custom installation professionals at Sarasota, Florida-based SmartHouse Integration.

Living in Sarasota, Florida, the Odegard family spends a lot of the year outdoors enjoying the beautiful warm weather and wanted to create a stylish, relaxing outdoor entertainment center where they could watch movies and sports all year long.

“I’m not a huge tech guy,” Eric Odegard said, “and this was the first time I really saw how all the systems in my home could be tied together and controlled on my iPhone, which I carry with me everywhere.  Now that I’ve gotten used to having all of this control, I’m going to expand the system to include the pool heater and the Jacuzzi controls, and also the security system in the main house.  I’ll be able to have the jacuzzi heated up and ready to go when I get home, and then disengage the security system as I’m walking up to the front door.  How cool is that? Add that to the great parties we’ve been able to throw, including the outdoor Super Bowl party we just had, and this system really blows us away.  SmartHouse Integration and the guys at Onyx Development who designed the pool house really created an amazing backyard living space that we can enjoy year round.”

With their amazing new outdoor theater and surround system, they’re free to host parties and watch movies in their own backyard.  And with the ELAN g! system they can use their iPhones or iPads to control the theater and audio system, the landscape lights, the HVAC and audio in the pool house, and soon the security system in the main house, too.

According to SmartHouse president Mark van den Broek, “When the Odegards were getting ready to start their home addition and pool renovation, they said they wanted a great outdoor audio system, of course, but they’d really love to be able to watch movies and sports with family and friends while lounging at the pool.  I told them that not only could I design a beautiful outdoor home theater like they’ve never seen, but I could let them control everything—the projector, the LED landscape lights, the pool house HVAC and multi-zone audio, and even the pool equipment—with an iPad and iPhone through the ELAN g! system.  Eric is a huge iPhone fan, so that really put him over the top.

“As you can see, the results lived up to the hype.  We used some of the best projection and outdoor audio equipment available to give them a theater that rivals the quality of any commercial movie theater out there, and the entire system can be set up with a couple swipes and taps on an iPad. The projector is so powerful the family can even watch sports outdoors in the daytime, partly thanks to a removable TV overhang that Onyx built.  We also installed an ELAN TS2 in-wall touch screen in the pool house that allows anyone to control the whole system from inside.”

The poolside theater is complete with a DirecTV HD receiver and Samsung Blu-ray player, so the homeowner can enjoy all of his sports and movies in the comfort of his own backyard. 

The ELAN g! Control System provides users with the most uniform and intuitive icon-based control from their favorite devices including TVs, touchscreens, touchpads, PCs, iPhones and iPads. The standardized interface works across platforms, so that the trendy g!Mobile app users love on the iPhone appears and works similarly on ELAN touchscreens, valets and handheld remotes as well as users' televisions and mobile devices. And the system's IP backbone makes it just as easy to control the system from across the room - or across the globe.

Individual "apps" for each subsystem allow the user to control security, climate, lighting, media, irrigation, pool/spa, messaging, video and photos with the flick of a finger. Access is fast and secure through any ELAN home interface or globally with mobile Internet enabled devices like the iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Netbooks and PC Tablets. Since the intuitive interface empowers users with personalized scheduling and detailed history views, high consumption subsystems like lighting and climate can be closely monitored and managed for a greener lifestyle - and substantial energy savings.

About ELAN Home Systems:
Since 1990 ELAN® Home Systems has been an industry leading manufacturer of innovative, award-winning Multi-Room audio/video systems. ELAN systems were the first to integrate audio, video, phones and third-party products to create a seamless, easy-to-use "whole house" solution. ELAN systems and products are distributed through a comprehensive channel of select Dealers and Distributors throughout the United States, Canada and more than 58 countries worldwide. ELAN Home Systems is part of The AVC Group.  To learn more, visit www.elanhomesystems.com.

About The AVC Group, LLC:
Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, The AVC Group, LLC is a portfolio of pre-eminent manufacturers and marketers of state-of-the-art consumer and commercial audio, video, and control system solutions.  The AVC Group is comprised of the following industry leading brands: Niles®, ELAN® Home Systems, Xantech®, ATON® and Sunfire®. The AVC Group, LLC is a subsidiary of Nortek, Inc.’s Home Technology Group.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

iEssentials Unveils New Line of iPad2 Accessories At 2012 International Home and Housewares Show

The iEssentials division of MIZCO International is introducing a complete line of iEssentials accessories for the new iPad2, all designed to increase the functionality of the iPad2, and keep it protected during everyday use.  This new line of accessories will be on display at the 2012 International Home and Housewares Show in Booth S4844, at McCormick Place in Chicago.

The new iEssentials 360 Stand for iPad2, features a 360-degree rotating display that allows for the iPad2 to be displayed at any angle for optimal viewing. The compact stand folds up for easy storage, and features a black rubberized finish, with extra grip on the bottom for security and stability. Available for immediate delivery, at the suggested retail price of $20.00.

iEssentials is also introducing three new protective cases for the iPad2. The Smart Case features a hard plastic clip-on bottom shell, with an attached folding top cover that immediately shuts down the iPad2 when closed. Available for immediate delivery, for $29.99, the Smart Case is available in four colors. The stylish Leather Folio Case is the perfect solution for those seeking a classic folio case. The Leather Folio, is available for immediate delivery for $24.99, and includes a stylus. The Universal Neoprene Tablet Cases are available in a zipper model and a sleeve model. The Universal Neoprene Tablet Zipper Case features a zipper pocket for storage of cables and other accessories, and the Universal Neoprene Tablet Sleeve Case features a fold-over closure, and is reversible.  Both models are available in 7” and 10” sizes, for $9.99 and $14.99 respectively.

To ensure privacy, and a scratch-free display, iEssentials offers a variety of screen protectors in “Privacy” or “Mirror” versions, all for the suggested retail price of $7.99.

The new Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard for the iPad2, is available for immediate delivery, and carries a suggested retail price of $49.99.

About Mizco International
Headquartered in Avenel, New Jersey, Mizco International (www.mizco.com)
is one of the world's fastest growing suppliers of mobile phone headsets
and accessories, as well as imaging and iPhone power solutions. Founded
in 1990, Mizco markets products under the Cellular Innovations, DIGIPOWER, iEssentials, Travelocity, and Ecko Unltd. brands. The company currently offers more than 1,000 products through a global dealer network. For
more information on Mizco and its product offerings call 1.800.266.4026
or visit www.mizco.com.

Monday, February 27, 2012

Expanded Line of Travelocity Travel and Portable Technology Products to Debut at Home and Housewares Show 2012

Moving to meet the growing market demand for a greater variety of Travelocity® branded travel and mobile technology accessories, MIZCO International, the industry-leading multi-brand manufacturer and marketer of high performance value mobile technology solutions, will debut an expanded line of four new Travelocity® products at the 2012 International Home and Housewares Show, which runs from March 10 – 13, 2012. The introduction will be made by MIZCO Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing David Strumeier, at Booth S4844 at McCormick Place in Chicago.
 
The new ready-to-go in-store product programs include the “Power to Go” free-standing tower of portable power solutions, the “Waterproof Series” of waterproof cases and bags, the “Travel Tablet Case Series” of neoprene cases, and an expanded series of “Microbead Plush Travel Pillows.”

“The response of our retail partners to our Travelocity line of travel and mobile tech accessory products has been nothing short of phenomenal, “ Strumeier said today.  “And the reason for the line’s success is firmly grounded in the consumer’s recognition of and respect for the Travelocity brand, which is beloved by hundreds of millions of traveling consumers around the world.  We are extending the reach of this iconic brand by attaching it directly to an ever growing line of innovatively designed, high performance travel and tech accessory products that meet genuine traveler needs.”

Available for immediate delivery, the new Travelocity ‘Power To Go’ merchandiser display includes a 3-in-1 charger, AC|DC converter, USB travel charger, USB car charger, stereo hands-free headset, three-port travel outlet, travel tech case, Samsung and LG compatible car charger, Samsung and LG compatible travel charger, Apple licensed iPhone car charger, Apple licensed iPhone travel charger, mini and micro compatible car charger, mini and micro compatible travel charger, mini compatible car charger, mini compatible travel charger, micro compatible car charger, and a micro compatible travel charger.

The Travelocity “Waterproof Series” includes a universal cell phone case, an iPad case, a tablet case, and a camera case, all featuring a watertight closures, control access through clear window, an adjustable neck or shoulder strap, and built-in UV protection.  Additional special features include a watertight earphone port with waterproof headphones for the cell phone case, and room for camera lens zoom in the camera case.

The Travelocity “Travel Tablet Case Series” features travel friendly, form-fitted neoprene cases in SKUs designed to fit all 7-8” and 9-10” models of tablets and provide complete protection against damage.  Featuring heavy-duty zippers and closed-seam construction for security, form-fitting neoprene and a cushioned interior for extra durability and added protection, these cases are slim and small enough to fit inside another travel bag to keep tablet devices scratch-free and protected while on the go.  Available in Black, Blue, Navy, Red, Purple, Pink, Blue Plaid, Red Plaid, White Polka-dot, Houndstooth, Pink Polka-dot, Red Hearts, Cheetah, Zebra, and Color Hearts.

The newly expanded Travelocity “Microbead Plush Travel Pillow” line builds upon the established popularity of Travelocity’s travel pillows. The line features ultra-soft fleece lined pillows for the ultimate in comfort, a snug fit around the neck for maximum support, and thousands of polystyrene microbeads for comfort and relaxation.  Available for immediate delivery in six colors including Black Polka-dot, Pink Polka-dot, Houndstooth, Zebra, Cheetah, Color Hearts.

Additional product photography is available upon request.

About Travelocity Global
Travelocity® is committed to being the traveler's champion -- before, during and after the trip – and provides the most comprehensive and proactive guarantee in the industry. This customer-driven focus, backed by 24/7 live phone support, competitive prices and powerful shopping technology has made Travelocity one of the largest travel companies in the world. Travelocity also owns and operates: Travelocity Business® for corporate travel; igougo.com, a leading online travel community; lastminute.com, a leader in European online travel; and ZUJI, a leader in Asia-Pacific online travel. Travelocity is owned by Sabre Holdings Corporation, a world leader in travel marketing and distribution.

About Mizco International
Headquartered in Avenel, New Jersey, Mizco International is one of the world's fastest growing suppliers of mobile phone headsets and accessories, as well as imaging and iPhone power solutions. Founded in 1990, Mizco markets products under the Cellular Innovations, DIGIPOWER, iEssentials, Ecko Unlimited, and Travelocity brands. The company currently offers more than 1,000 products through a global dealer network. For more information on Mizco and its product offerings call 1.800.266.4026 or visit www.mizco.com.

Elan Home Systems Debuts Enhanced Online Tech Forum To Accelerate Peer-To-Peer Communication And Resource Sharing

In a move designed to accelerate the sharing of product, installation, and service related information among its growing and expanding dealer base, ELAN® Home Systems today announced the launch of a new online Tech Forum.  The launch closely coincides with the introduction of the brand’s new, state-of-the-art consumer facing web site at www.elanhomesystems.com. 

According to Joe Lautner, Manager of Business Development and Project Management at ELAN Home Systems, the new Tech Forum is available exclusively to authorized ELAN dealers, who can now access the forum 24/7/365 after entering into the password-protected dealer section of the new web site.  “Coincident with the launch of our totally new web site, we are taking our dealer support programs to a whole new level and the round-the-clock availability of this new Tech Forum is one example of our commitment to accelerate the distribution and sharing of information that will help our dealers to sell and install ELAN g! systems to every type of residential and commercial customer they serve.”

Indeed, the new ELAN Tech Forum takes the old-fashioned idea of a bulletin board and redefines it for a new generation of dealers.  Anchored by carefully pre-selected subject matter information threads, as well as a new search engine that allows dealers to instantaneously comb through product information to find the exact information they need when they need it most, the new Tech Forum is actively monitored by trained ELAN technical support specialists who respond to every dealer question. 

“We are very excited to offer ELAN dealers an online community, where they can come together and get the answers they need in the simplest way possible. With our fantastic new search engine, finding specific answers to dealer issues is no longer like finding a needle in a haystack. Instead of having to search through extensive documents and manuals, dealers can now simply run a search for the issue they are having and find an answer right away.“

Thanks to the informal nature of the forum, which is available to dealers at all hours of the day, the members of the ELAN team are not the only ones who can help solve problems. Dealers are also encouraged to provide advice when knowledgeable about an issue that a fellow dealer posts. Though all answers offered by dealers are monitored by ELAN for complete accuracy, the peer-to-peer assistance has been beneficial in establishing a welcoming online venue where dealers can comfortably seek help.

“Not only is this a great resource for problem solving and 3rd party integration tips, but dealers can also inspire each other and network with one another,” said Eric Wieland, Technical Services Manager. “The tech forum is another way for dealers to get the information they need when they need it. Different people like different resources. The more options available to solve problems and build a concrete knowledge base, the better.”

Since its initial Beta launch this past October, there has been a steady increase of dealers joining the forum and getting in on the undeniable resourcefulness of the site. The forum averages five new members and 30 posts a day, and is sure to grow even larger as word-of-mouth spreads about the benefits of this collective online community for ELAN dealers.

About ELAN Home Systems:
Since 1990 ELAN® Home Systems has been an industry leading manufacturer of innovative, award-winning Multi-Room audio/video systems. ELAN systems were the first to integrate audio, video, phones and third-party products to create a seamless, easy-to-use "whole-house" solution. ELAN systems and products are distributed through a comprehensive channel of select Dealers and Distributors throughout the United States, Canada and more than 58 countries worldwide. ELAN Home Systems is part of The AVC Group. To learn more, visit www.elanhomesystems.com.

About The AVC Group, LLC:
Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, The AVC Group, LLC is a portfolio of pre-eminent manufacturers and marketers of state-of-the-art consumer and commercial audio, video, and control system solutions. The AVC Group is comprised of the following industry leading brands: Niles®, ELAN® Home Systems, Xantech®, ATON® and Sunfire®. The AVC Group, LLC is a subsidiary of Nortek, Inc.’s Home Technology Group.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Elan Home Systems Debuts New g! Software Version 5.4 With Across-The-Board Enhancements

ELAN® Home Systems today announced that the ELAN® g! Version 5.4 software is now available to dealers.  The new software adds increased iPad app functionality, KNX support, updates to the newest drivers and enhancements to the user interface.

According to Joe Lautner, ELAN Manager of Business Development & Product Management, “The new Version 5.4 software update is a great achievement resulting in the strongest and most reliable ELAN platform to date.  We listened to dealer and user feedback and made significant improvements to both the user interface and the dealer configurator to enhance both simple and complex installations.  We’ve made it even easier to manage a zone that has two separate source volume controls, control a zone with multiple displays, and added an innovative way to manage a bar or restaurant with multiple TVs.  With all of these improvements, we are giving dealers much more room for customization, all while making the system easier to operate for the end user.”

The ELAN g! Configurator is now more powerful than ever, allowing integrators to give users simple control of two zones of audio in the same room, such as a TV’s speakers and whole home speakers in the same room, and also control two TVs in the same room.  For homes with bar rooms featuring multiple displays, ELAN has developed a new screen in the g! interface that shows multiple displays, giving one touch control of the source, volume and on/off functions for each display.

ELAN is also introducing the new g! Reference Guide, a comprehensive collection of tips and explanations split into two sections. Section one includes tips and explanations for common applications including backing up a system, developing customized controls, running g! Connect on a Mac, setting up end-user manager lighting scenes, the new Configurator functions for multiple displays and home bars, and many more.  The second section provides a field-by-field description in the 5.4 Configurator.

The g! Version 5.4 software adds a significant number of features to the iPod Touch and iPhone g! apps and gives the iPad g! app identical functionality to the TS10 in-wall touch screen for security, climate, lighting and entertainment. The new software also allows for all supported systems to display in widescreen landscape mode and gives users the ability to remotely view recorded surveillance video with an enhanced DVR viewing feature on both the iPad and iPhone.  The new iPad App will be the most powerful and comprehensive home entertainment and control iPad app on the market.

The g! Version 5.4 software incorporates a number of third-party driver updates including LUTRON RadioRA 2 lighting and shade controls, and the new Lutron thermostats.  ELAN is also pleased to announce being one of the first integration partners for the Lutron HomeWorks QS International product line.  The Version 5.4 software also includes driver updates for the latest A/V receivers from Denon, Integra, Marantz and Yamaha. The new 5.4 software also add support for ELAN’s new S1616 audio matrix.

At the end of March, even more functionality will be added to the g! 5.4 software. A new g! Tools will consolidate many of the tools used to help dealers install and support systems including transferring files, managing firmware updates, keeping support documents organized and up-to-date, and a dashboard for managing multiple systems.  They will also release the irrigation and messaging apps for g!Mobile.

The ELAN g! Entertainment & Control System provides users with the most uniform and intuitive icon-based control from their favorite devices including TVs, touchscreens, touchpads, PCs, iPhones and iPads. The standardized interface works across platforms, so that the trendy g!Mobile app users love on the iPhone appears and works similarly on ELAN touchscreens, valets and handheld remotes as well as users' televisions and mobile devices. And the system's IP backbone makes it just as easy to control the system from across the room - or across the globe.
Individual "apps" for each subsystem allow the user to control security, climate, lighting, media, irrigation, pool/spa, messaging, video and photos with the flick of a finger. Access is fast and secure through any ELAN home interface or globally with mobile Internet enabled devices like the iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Netbooks and PC Tablets. Since the intuitive interface empowers users with personalized scheduling and detailed history views, high consumption subsystems like lighting and climate can be closely monitored and managed for a greener lifestyle - and substantial energy savings.

About ELAN Home Systems: Since 1990 ELAN® Home Systems has been an industry leading manufacturer of innovative, award-winning Multi-Room audio/video systems. ELAN systems were the first to integrate audio, video, phones and third-party products to create a seamless, easy-to-use "whole house" solution. ELAN systems and products are distributed through a comprehensive channel of select Dealers and Distributors throughout the United States, Canada and more than 58 countries worldwide. ELAN Home Systems is part of The AVC Group.  To learn more, visit www.elanhomesystems.com.
About The AVC Group, LLC:
Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, The AVC Group, LLC (www.theavcgroup.com) is a portfolio of pre-eminent manufacturers and marketers of state-of-the-art consumer and commercial audio, video, and control system solutions. The AVC Group is comprised of the following industry leading brands: NILES® Audio (www.nilesaudio.com), ELAN® Home Systems (www.elanhomesystems.com), Xantech® (www.xantech.com), ATON® (www.atonhome.com), and Sunfire® (www.sunfire.com). The AVC Group, LLC is a subsidiary of Nortek, Inc.'s (www.nortek-inc.com) Home Technology Group.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Boston Red Sox Relief Pitcher Mark Melancon Finds The 'Perfect Pitch' With The Niles ICS Home Audio System

The Boston Red Sox’ newest relief pitcher, Mark Melancon, knows all about the quest for the perfect pitch.  While the perfect knuckleball or slider can take a career to master, it took Melancon just a few minutes to find the ‘perfect pitch’ in his Houston, Texas area home with the Niles® ICS Whole-Home Audio System.  Now Mark can enjoy his favorite music wherever and whenever he wants with 11 audio zones that he controls with a Niles iRemote® and simple in-wall Niles Contact keypads.

According to Melancon, who pitched two seasons for the Houston Astros before joining the Boston Red Sox roster during this past off season, “The previous owners had a Niles system installed, so in the process of purchasing the house I got to try it out, and it just blew me away.  It was so easy to use for all kinds of music in every room, and then they pulled it out and took it with them when they moved out!  Honestly, all it took to convince me to install the Niles ICS system was a couple minutes using the touch screens and listening to the awesome sound quality.

“My favorite part of the system has to be the iRemote,” Melancon continued.  “It lets me go through the entire system and change the music source and the volume for any zone in the house, even when I’m out in the yard.  Sometimes I even use it to play pranks on my wife, like changing the music on her when she’s in the living room and I’m outside.  I also like the touch screen displays in the wall because they’re easy to use, and they really add another element to the house; people see them when they’re walking through and it catches their interest.”

According to installation expert Prashant Mody of Modia, Melancon couldn’t have asked for a better whole-home audio system. “The family wanted to have fast, easy access to all of their music in every room and outdoors, so the Niles ICS System was the ideal choice.  We often have to show our clients exactly what their new home tech can do for them, but this system really explains itself, as Mark learned when he toured the open house.”

In addition to the home’s seven indoor audio zones outfitted with Niles CM series ceiling-mount speakers and a new SW8 compact subwoofer in the living room entertainment center, there are four outdoor zones featuring Niles GeoRealistic™ Rock Speakers and OS Series Outdoor Speakers.  When the Melancons are out in the yard the Niles iRemote gives them quick access to all of their music sources, including iPods, Pandora, am/fm radio and Sirius Satellite Radio, which they may add when they return after the baseball season.

Melancon said that the whole-home audio system has made his mornings brighter, and when he wakes up he goes right for the Contact keypad

“The first thing I do in the morning is hit the keypad in the bedroom so there’s music playing when I get down to the kitchen, so my wife and I can jam out to some tunes while we have breakfast.  Then I usually head outside to do some work and put on music wherever I am.”

“I dreamed about having a house for so long,” Melancon said. “With the Niles audio system I can make any spot in the house the perfect place to relax, work, or whatever I need to do, and it makes the house that much more special.  When I come back to Houston after spending the season in Boston, I’ll be able to simply press a button and feel at home again.”

With a simple, intuitive user interface that is displayed on Niles in-wall Contact panels, accessing an incredible range of music sources has never been easier.  With the Niles ICS System, users can connect to their iTunes libraries, digital music files, Pandora Internet radio, Rhapsody, Sirius|XM Radio, and all traditional audio sources including CD players, DVD and Blu-ray players, iPods, am/fm radio and their computers or tablet devices.  The Niles Multi-Zone GXR2 Amplifier makes it easy to access the whole home (or yacht) from one interface, giving users complete control over their entire audio experience, from home theaters to outdoor music.



About Niles®:
California-based Niles® is a 33-year-old brand recognized as The First Name in Custom Installation®. Niles is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of audio/video custom installation products and accessories and is guided by its vision to be the world’s leading provider of products and services that enable professional custom installers to design and install systems that delight their customers. To that end, Niles pursues a mission to provide solutions for end users that enable simple and easy access to home entertainment and that integrate seamlessly with other low voltage subsystems like lighting, Internet, security and HVAC in residential and light commercial environments. Niles conducts its business with a promise to treat its customers, employees, suppliers and stakeholders with fairness and respect and to foster teamwork, innovation and a commitment to be the best in everything it does. Additional information may be obtained by visiting www.nilesaudio.com.

About The AVC Group, LLC:
Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, The AVC Group, LLC is a portfolio of pre-eminent manufacturers and marketers of state-of-the-art consumer and commercial audio, video, and control system solutions.  The AVC Group is comprised of the following industry leading brands: Niles®, ELAN® Home Systems, Xantech®, ATON® and Sunfire®. The AVC Group, LLC is a subsidiary of Nortek, Inc.’s (www.nortek-inc.com) Home Technology Group.

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Elan Launches Remarkably User-Friendly Web Site Showcasing The Complete Capabilities of Elan g!


The ELAN g! Entertainment and Control System has become the custom installation industry’s control system to beat since it was introduced two years ago. ELAN Home Systems has added to that lead today by introducing the industry’s most user-friendly and easily navigable web site, www.elanhomesystems.com, which allows consumers to experience all the wonders of g! from the comfort of their homes.  Containing all the educational info, photos, home profiles and packaged home control solutions a homeowner needs to make a purchasing decision right at their fingertips, entering the world of whole-home entertainment and control just got a whole lot easier!

“Our new web site showcases and amplifies the remarkable capabilities of the ELAN g! Entertainment and Control System like,” said ELAN President Paul Starkey.  “It operates simultaneously as a compelling and informative portal for consumers and an extremely effective tool for our dealers and installers.  We encourage dealers to leverage the creative capabilities of the new site in their in-store presentation programs.”

The completely redesigned site offers consumers a first-hand look at the g! system like never before with an extensive photo portfolio of g! installations, a searchable full product catalog, a list of all integration partners, good, better and best home system templates to match every consumer’s need or budget, a slideshow brochure, a TV commercial, several TV news spots and videos, and even a demo of the ELAN g! user interface and its nine apps.  With each visit to the site it becomes clearer that the ELAN g! Entertainment and Control System is the simplest whole home control system to buy, install and use.

The site has several new features that directly benefit ELAN dealers such as a complete product catalog that can be searched or downloaded, putting the entire ELAN line in the hands of the dealers right on their smartphones, tablets or laptops. The new photo library includes dozens of professional photos of the g! system components, ELAN Elios speakers, and brand logos for dealers to use in marketing materials and on their own web sites. The site also provides key management contact info for dealers and installers and links to ELAN’s Facebook, YouTube and Twitter pages for additional videos and up-to-the-minute updates. The g! system’s bragging rights are well deserved, and are documented in an up-to-date awards section which details all awards ELAN has received, and a press section containing press releases about cool new installations and uses of the g! system.  Dealer and consumer testimonials show visitors that people really love the g! system and are using it to make their lives easier and improve their homes.

Available starting at $2,000 for a single-room, four sub-system control solution, the ELAN g! Series Control System can be expanded quickly and cost-effectively to enable whole-home control of every system.  ELAN g! provides users with the most uniform and intuitive icon-based control from their favorite devices, including TVs, touch screens, touchpads, PCs, iPhones, and iPads. And the system's IP backbone makes it just as easy to control the system from across the room—or across the globe.

The ELAN g! System has been awarded a 2011 Residential Systems Magazine RESI Award, a 2011 Custom Retailer Magazine EXCITE! Award, a 2011 CE Pro Magazine BEST Award, a Platinum Level 2011 CEA Mark of Excellence Award by the Consumer Electronics Association and a 2011 Gold Level Electronic House Magazine Product of the Year Award.

About ELAN Home Systems:
Since 1990 ELAN® Home Systems has been an industry leading manufacturer of innovative, award-winning Multi-Room audio/video systems. ELAN systems were the first to integrate audio, video, phones and third-party products to create a seamless, easy-to-use "whole-house" solution. ELAN systems and products are distributed through a comprehensive channel of select Dealers and Distributors throughout the United States, Canada and more than 58 countries worldwide. ELAN Home Systems is part of The AVC Group. To learn more, visit www.elanhomesystems.com.
About The AVC Group, LLC:
Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, The AVC Group, LLC is a portfolio of pre-eminent manufacturers and marketers of state-of-the-art consumer and commercial audio, video, and control system solutions. The AVC Group is comprised of the following industry leading brands: Niles®, ELAN® Home Systems, Xantech®, ATON® and Sunfire®. The AVC Group, LLC is a subsidiary of Nortek, Inc.’s Home Technology Group.

Friday, February 17, 2012

The AVC Group Launches Expanded Worldwide Training Program

Moving to provide its consolidated international distributor network with a new level of training support, The AVC Group today announced the roll out of a comprehensive 2012 Training Program that combines Trade Show, Internet, and Field based classes into one comprehensive global training initiative. 

According to Ken Johnsen, International Training Manager at The AVC Group, the new program was rolled out last month at ISE 2012 and featured brand specific training on the ELAN, Niles, Xantech, Sunfire, and ATON brands.  “Over a five day period we trained a large percentage of our European distributor partners and their trainers on every aspect of each brand’s product line,” Johnsen emphasized.  “We are now taking this same integrated approach and bringing it to every part of the world.”

The entire focus of The AVC Group’s international education effort, Johnsen emphasized, is to ‘train the trainers’ to be complete experts in all of the five brands’ product offerings.  “Our goal is to provide our distributors with the tools they need to successfully represent any brand within The AVC Group.  To achieve this goal, we are combining Trade Show, Internet, and Field-based classes into a single comprehensive program that allows for the largest number of trainers to be trained in the most time and cost-efficient way possible.  These training courses will culminate in a Certificate of Completion for various products and techniques unique to the brands of The AVC Group.”

Regarding trade show centric events, Johnson said that The AVC Group will be hosting multi-brand training at CEDIA 2012 in Indianapolis.  Field-based training is now scheduled to take place as follows:  February 2012 in Australia and New Zealand; March 2012 in Russia and Europe; April 2012 in Beijing, Shanghai and Southeast Asia; June 2012 in Peru and Brazil; July 2012 in India and Dubai; September 2012 in Carlsbad, California; October 2012 in Asia and Southeast Asia.  Johnsen stressed that each Field-based program will be structured to meet the needs of each region, and most likely be a week-long exercise that he calls a “HiFive” training event.  This event will have two full days devoted to ELAN, and one day each devoted to Niles and Xantech, and a half-day each to Sunfire and ATON.

Regarding Internet training events, Johnsen plans to utilize each brand’s already established on-line training videos and classes, while at the same time, creating smaller, highly focused sales and technical trainings that will emphasize software updates, system designing, programming techniques, as well as launches in new product categories. These trainings will be delivered via WebEx, Skype and/or conference calls.

For more information about specific training events and schedules, distributors are encouraged to contact Ken Johnsen directly at kjohnsen@theavcgroup.com by phone at +1 760-710-0546 or Skype using kenneth.johnsen6.

About The AVC Group, LLC:
Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, The AVC Group, LLC is a portfolio of pre-eminent manufacturers and marketers of state-of-the-art consumer and commercial audio, video, and control system solutions.  The Group is comprised of the following industry leading brands: ELAN® Home Systems, Niles® Audio, Xantech®, Sunfire®, and ATON®.

The AVC Group, LLC is a subsidiary of Nortek, Inc. and is part of Nortek’s Home Technology Group, an over-arching designation for a segment of home electronics companies that includes manufacturers producing nationally-recognized brands in categories such as stereo and home theater speakers, distributed audio and video systems, lighting controls, structured wiring systems, residential and commercial security and access control equipment, and Internet connected media products.  Nortek is headquartered in Providence, RI and is a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of innovative, branded residential and commercial ventilation, HVAC, and home technology convenience and security products.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Sony Visual Imaging Products Group Names Stampede United States Distributor For Sony EVI Series Video Cameras

Building on the success of its relationship with the Sony Visual Imaging Products Group, Stampede Presentation Products, Inc. today announced that it has been named a United States distributor of the popular Sony EVI Series of pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) video cameras.  According to Stampede President & COO Kevin Kelly, effective immediately Stampede assumes responsibility for the sales and marketing of the Sony EVI-HD7V, EVI-HD3V, EVI-D70, EVI-D70/W, EVI-D100, and EVI-HD1 Video Cameras.

“These Sony EVI Cameras provide added choices for the growing range of video conferencing, distance learning, house of worship, hospitals, nursing homes, event center, concert hall, and remote justice applications where imaging superiority, reliability, and installation flexibility are critically important,” Kelly emphasized today.  “The addition of these cameras to our product offering provides our dealers with a new product line to bring to their end-user customers.  We are expanding the range of possible installation environments our dealers can pursue — and that is what Stampede is fundamentally all about: creating new market opportunities while strengthening core channel strengths.”

Stampede Presentation Products, Inc. is the exclusive North American distributor of Sony Video Conferencing solutions.

According to Tim Henry, National Sales Manager, Visual Imaging Products Group, Sony Electronics, Inc., “Stampede has already taken the Sony Video Conferencing line to an unprecedented new level of success.  The addition of Sony EVI Video Cameras to their product portfolio is the next logical step in our expanding business relationship.  We believe the combination of our video conferencing solutions, together with our EVI Video Cameras, provides Stampede dealers and their customers with an unbeatable range of systems to
choose from.”

Sony EVI Video Cameras combine sophisticated signal processing with extensive exposure control options to maximize image quality under even the most challenging conditions.  Camera settings and pan/tilt/zoom functions can be performed remotely at high speed via RS-232C interface (VISCA™ protocol). 

About Stampede
Known for its value-added distribution, Amherst, NY-based Stampede is the leading distributor of presentation equipment including LCD/DLP projectors and flat panel displays. Stampede provides a complete range of brand name presentation equipment to a variety of audio/video, computer, and home theater resellers and integrators in the United States, Canada and Latin America. These resellers rely on Stampede for value-added services in distribution, marketing and solution- based sales. Stampede annually produces the “Big Book of AV,” an 816-page catalog and companion website (www.BigBookofAV.com) providing hundreds of sales, installation and spec tips for Stampede’s dealers in addition to product details on more than 5,000 SKUs. For more information on Stampede, log onto www.stampedeglobal.com.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Award-Winning Homebuilder Makes Elan g! System Standard For Every New Home He Builds

After installing the ELAN® g! Entertainment and Control System in the award-winning Power Haus in 2011, Florida homebuilder Josh Wynne has decided to include a base ELAN g! system in every new home he builds.  With the help of Mark van den Broek, President of SmartHouse Integration, Josh is providing every new client with a customizable, completely intuitive and easy-to-use home control system that offers iPhone, iPad and in-wall touch panel control of every core system in the home, from the lighting to the audio to heat.

“Homebuyers today want technology that can simplify things they do and improve their quality of life,” Wynne said. “By including a base home entertainment and control package with the ELAN g! system, Mark and I are giving clients a taste of the possibilities.  From now on, every new client of mine is going to be able to use an iPad to control their six-zone audio system, lights, HVAC, pool controls, irrigation and security system. And we let them know right from the start that the possibilities really are endless—they can add to the system now as they see fit, and even prewire for future upgrades.”

The partnership is one of the first of its kind, pairing an award-winning homebuilder, and award-winning custom integrator, and the award-winning ELAN g! Entertainment and Home Control System.  Each home is custom designed and built, so the layout of each ELAN g! system is completely customizable.  If the client isn’t ready to expand the system just yet but wants to put three of their audio zones in the backyard, they can do it!

According to van den Broek, “Working with Josh to make home control an integral part of every house he builds is something that virtually no one else is doing, and it shows that he is ready to give every one of his clients a home that is personalized beyond their wildest dreams.  Each new homebuyer can specify how they want their package laid out, and can expand from the base system to include shade control, additional audio or video zones, or add more touch screen interfaces, HR2 remotes and OSD on-screen displays for controlling the system right on the TV.”

According to Wynne, choosing the right system is the first critical step to get homeowners to accept that new technology can greatly simplify and improve their homes. The ELAN g! system was his choice because it so simple to use that he knows every client will be able to master the user interface quickly, regardless of their age or technological prowess.

“The majority of my clients are building their last home,” Wynne said. “They are interested in improving quality of life and security, and want nice things in their home, but don’t want to have to fuss with the tech side of it.  Where 10 years ago virtually every person would quickly be intimidated by a room with five remotes in it, nearly everyone now can operate and iPhone and iPad, because they are so easy to learn to use.  The ELAN g! system operates the same way, with a simple touch and swipe interface that is identical on every interface device they sell, as well as on iPhones, iPads and iPod touches.”

Each new homebuyer will receive a base ELAN g! system that consists of an ELAN HC6 Home Controller and an ELAN M86 multi-room audio controller the provide six independent zones of audio.  It will incorporate Lutron RadioRA lighting both indoors and outdoors, the home’s HVAC systems, pool and spa controls, and the irrigation and security systems as well.  Each client will be able to access the system through two TS7 7” in-wall touch screens, three TS2 4” in-wall touch pads, one HR2 multimedia and home control remote, and one iPad with the g! app preinstalled.  They can also get the app for any existing iPhones, iPads, iPod touches, Apple computers or PCs they currently own.

Van den Broek added that, “My customers love their systems more in the third year than they did in the first year.  The system can grow with the owner and is constantly being updated to include the newest music and video sources, as well as new interface devices and software upgrades that make the system even simpler and faster to use.  Because expanding the system is a relatively simple process, people like to add additional surveillance cameras or purchase motorized window shades once they realize how much the g! system has changed how they live in their homes.”

ELAN Home Systems will showcase its g! series of home control solutions for builders at the 2012 NAHB International Builders’ Show in The AVC Group’s Booth #4959 at the Orange County Convention Center from Feb. 8-11.

Josh Wynne Construction and SmartHouse Integration, both based in Sarasota, Florida, recently joined forces on the Power Haus, the greenest home in the U.S. The Power Haus won Josh Wynne Construction several LEED awards, Aurora awards and other green building awards in 2011.  SmartHouse Integration was also recognized as an outstanding industry leader in 2011 when it was awarded the CEA 2011 Mark of Excellence Home Of The Year Platinum Award for another Sarasota job, dubbed “San Remo”.

The ELAN g! Control System provides users with the most uniform and intuitive icon-based control from their favorite devices including TVs, touchscreens, touchpads, PCs, iPhones and iPads. The standardized interface works across platforms, so that the trendy g!Mobile app users love on the iPhone appears and works similarly on ELAN touchscreens, valets and handheld remotes as well as users' televisions and mobile devices. And the system's IP backbone makes it just as easy to control the system from across the room - or across the globe.
Individual "apps" for each subsystem allow the user to control security, climate, lighting, media, irrigation, pool/spa, messaging, video and photos with the flick of a finger. Access is fast and secure through any ELAN home interface or globally with mobile Internet enabled devices like the iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Netbooks and PC Tablets. Since the intuitive interface empowers users with personalized scheduling and detailed history views, high consumption subsystems like lighting and climate can be closely monitored and managed for a greener lifestyle - and substantial energy savings.

About ELAN Home Systems:
Since 1990 ELAN® Home Systems has been an industry leading manufacturer of innovative, award-winning Multi-Room audio/video systems. ELAN systems were the first to integrate audio, video, phones and third-party products to create a seamless, easy-to-use "whole house" solution. ELAN systems and products are distributed through a comprehensive channel of select Dealers and Distributors throughout the United States, Canada and more than 58 countries worldwide. ELAN Home Systems is part of The AVC Group.  To learn more, visit www.elanhomesystems.com.
About The AVC Group, LLC:
Headquartered in Carlsbad, California, The AVC Group, LLC is a portfolio of pre-eminent manufacturers and marketers of state-of-the-art consumer and commercial audio, video, and control system solutions.  The AVC Group is comprised of the following industry leading brands: Niles®, ELAN® Home Systems, Xantech®, ATON® and Sunfire®. The AVC Group, LLC is a subsidiary of Nortek, Inc.’s Home Technology Group.