Wednesday, January 30, 2013

NanoLumens Launches New Web Site To Facilitate Design-Specific Customer Bid Requests


Underscoring its commitment to provide prospective customers with a maximum amount of information simply and efficiently, NanoLumens, Inc. today announced the launch of an entirely new and redesigned web site that features a unique Design Specification Calculator that allows potential customers to plug in their desired model, size and pixel pitch and receive a full list of specifications for that unique display.  In less than 30 seconds a visitor to the site can enter their requirements, view the specifications, and submit the specified design to a NanoLumens team member for a price quote.



“We are dedicated to revolutionizing every aspect of digital media, including the way prospective customers go about gathering information for their projects and initiate the process,” today said Josh Byrd, NanoLumens Director of Marketing.  “Available in any size, shape, or curvature, NanoLumens’ large-format display technology enables customers to set their imagination free to create the ultimate digital experience for their audiences.



“Our new web site now functions as a creative facilitator of their creative process,” Byrd continued.  “Visitors to the site can gather more information about how NanoLumens displays are uniquely suited to their industry and then use our new calculator tool to choose from a variety of display options, sizes, and pixel, pitches, calculate their own display specifications and submit it for an immediate price quote. This new functionality is a direct result of our commitment to helping our customers break free from the constraints of traditional large-format display technology.”



According to Byrd, the launch of the new NanoLumens web site comes as the company prepares to introduce its new NanoSlim DS and NanoFlex DS Series (Design Specific) LED displays at Digital Signage Expo 2013 in Booth #1042 in the Las Vegas Convention Center.  



NanoLumens’ technology has been named ‘Best Large-format LED Display’ of the year by Signage Solutions magazine in its 2012 Product of the Year awards program, as well as being recognized by Entrepreneur magazine as a 2011 future-proof tech trend and cited by The Wall Street Journal in its 2010 Technology Innovations Awards.  NanoLumens’ technology also received the 2011 Breakthrough Technology of the Year Award at the American Technology Awards.  Digital Signage Magazine awarded the NanoLumens NanoFlex a 2011 DIGI Award for “Best New Display Device – Non-LCD or Plasma.”



About NanoLumens:

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, NanoLumens, Inc. (www.nanolumens.com) is a privately held corporation engaged in the research, product development, marketing and sales of unique flexible and fixed large-format LED display solutions in any size, shape, or curvature, that address a yawning technology gap in the $14 billion digital display industry.  Since its founding in 2006, NanoLumens has built a portfolio of more than 20 international families of issued and filed patents on its flexible display technology that effectively address the commercial market void between relatively small flat-panel displays and huge, limited application LED boards. NanoLumens technology is not constrained by standard sizes and shapes, or by the weight, heat, noise and cost issues traditionally associated with commercial LED products.

Monday, January 28, 2013

Retailers Must Implement In-Store Digital Signage To Decrease Costs and Increase Messaging And Sales

Customer-facing businesses that want to stay relevant to an increasingly mobile consumer audience must learn from the digital signage revolution transforming public spaces everywhere and implement in-store digital signage solutions that reduce costs, improve messaging and drive sales — according to Stampede Presentation Products, Inc. President & COO Kevin Kelly. 



“Digital signage is transforming the way companies inform, entertain and sell to today’s increasingly mobile consumer population in both indoor and outdoor public spaces, as dramatic advances in display technology, installation methods and maintenance make it possible to deploy signage faster than ever before,” Kelly said today.  “As this revolution continues, retailers must learn to deploy the same technologies in their own in-store sales environment in order to stay relevant to their customers, as it is the only economically feasible way to sell customers now and in the future.” 



According to Kelly, retailers who think that the cost of implementing an in-store digital signage solution is exorbitant haven’t taken the time to do their homework. “The total cost of creating and constantly replacing printed POP materials is huge, and its impact on consumers decreases every day.  Moving images move people to connect and consume.  With a digital signage solution, retailers can quickly adapt to their customers preferences.  They can change pricing, launch promotions, host micro events and adapt their messaging based on minute-to-minute developments within the store environment.”



Kelly stressed that retailers who are not yet putting digital signage to work within their sales environment need to meet with their AV integrator to plan a creative and cost-effective conversion program that’s right for them.  Beyond the core requirements of lighting, background audio, displays and digital signage, retailers should consider other components such as custom-shaped large-format displays, interactive touch panels and eco-friendly and economical LED lighting.



“No two retail environments are alike, and it’s important for every retailer to find a digital signage solution that conforms to the unique needs of their business,” Kelly added. “Dealers often make the mistake of thinking that their retail customers can’t afford to install a digital signage solution in their environment.  The fact of the matter is that they can’t afford not to install a system — and dealers can help them do it in a creative way that’s also cost-effective. Now is the time for retailers to keep their sales environments relevant and start their own digital signage revolution!”



Stampede Presentation Products, Inc. will exhibit a complete range of digital signage solutions at Digital Signage Expo 2013 in Booth #1125 of the Las Vegas Convention Center.



About Stampede

Known for its value-added distribution, Amherst, New York-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.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

NanoLumens Redefines "Flexible" With New DS Series Design Specific Displays At Digital Signage Expo 2013

Redefining the meaning of the word "flexible" for an industry rooted in "fixed" installation solutions, NanoLumens®, Inc., the pace-setting Georgia-based company that is revolutionizing virtually every aspect of the 21st century large-format digital signage industry, today announced it will introduce its new NanoSlim DS and NanoFlex DS Series (Design Specific) LED displays at Digital Signage Expo 2013 in Booth #1042 in the Las Vegas Convention Center on February 27. 
 

"The era of one-size-fits-all display solutions is over," NanoLumens President & CEO Rick Cope declared today.  "In a world where no two customers and no two environments are alike, no two digital signage solutions should ever be the same.  Each installation is unique and therefore each solution must be designed specifically to meet the individual needs of the customer and the application environment.  Our new NanoSlim DS and NanoFlex DS Series displays allow each customer to imagine and create the ultimate digital experience in their environment for their audience."




According to Cope, NanoLumens has developed an advanced manufacturing system, which allows them to reliably and efficiently manufacture large-format LED displays in any shape, size or curvature. With this new approach to manufacturing, NanoLumens is able to deliver the ultimate flexibility to its customers.  Where traditional manufacturing offers customers only a narrow range of sizes, shapes and product variations, NanoLumens new DS Series displays are limited only by the customer’s imagination, allowing them to tailor not only the content, but the actual display itself to match their creative vision.



NanoLumens DS technology is a truly remarkable innovation, designed to give customers the ultimate flexibility to utilize large-format LED display technology in ways previously thought impossible. Like all NanoLumens displays, Design Specific displays are slim, lightweight and eco-friendly with brilliant edge-to-edge image quality to transform any space into the ultimate visual experience.
 

All NanoLumens displays accept input from nearly any device and/or content management system. There is no need for special software, hardware or special personnel to display content beautifully.  With a profile of only a few inches, NanoSlim DS and NanoFlex DS can be installed on virtually any surface without being obtrusive, adding the ‘WOW’ factor to any environment without taking up precious space.  NanoLumens’ patented display technology is optimized for indoor use, operating with virtually zero heat or noise while producing bright, rich, consistent color as well as superior off-axis viewing with no color shift or image distortion throughout the display horizon.



NanoLumens’ technology has been named ‘Best Large-format LED Display’ of the year by Signage Solutions magazine in its 2012 Product of the Year awards program, as well as being recognized by Entrepreneur magazine as a 2011 future-proof tech trend and cited by The Wall Street Journal in its 2010 Technology Innovations Awards.  NanoLumens’ technology also received the 2011 Breakthrough Technology of the Year Award at the American Technology Awards.  Digital Signage Magazine awarded the NanoLumens NanoFlex a 2011 DIGI Award for “Best New Display Device – Non-LCD or Plasma.”



About NanoLumens:

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, NanoLumens, Inc. (www.nanolumens.com) is a privately held corporation engaged in the research, product development, marketing and sales of unique flexible and fixed large-format LED display solutions in any size, shape, or curvature, that address a yawning technology gap in the $14 billion digital display industry.  Since its founding in 2006, NanoLumens has built a portfolio of more than 20 international families of issued and filed patents on its flexible display technology that effectively address the commercial market void between relatively small flat-panel displays and huge, limited application LED boards. NanoLumens technology is not constrained by standard sizes and shapes, or by the weight, heat, noise and cost issues traditionally associated with commercial LED products.

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

IBIS BAY Beach Resort Brings Exclusive Nighttime Ocean Adventures To Key West


IBIS BAY Beach Resort is opening a whole new world of ocean exploration in Key West with a new unique nighttime adventure, Nightboarding™.  Using I-Lumenate’s new Night-Ops waterproof LED light bars, IBIS BAY Paddle Sports is proud to be the exclusive tour operator in the Florida Keys!  The unique oceanic experience will launch Feb. 15, and interested parties can sign up now by calling IBIS BAY Paddle Sports at (305) 896-0342. 

According to IBIS BAY Beach Resort owner and Key West resident Chris Holland, 
“Wildlife lovers, watersport enthusiasts and anyone who wants to try something absolutely brand new are going to love Nightboarding.  The ocean floor comes alive at night with creatures you normally don’t see in the daytime, such as lobsters, crabs, colorful sponges and loads of tropical fish.  IBIS BAY is the only place in the Keys and one of only a handful of places in the world offering this.  And as we quickly found out, the 3,000 lumens of white light Night-Ops light bars produce makes for some amazing sights and photos!”

IBIS BAY Paddle Sports will offer two different Nightboarding experiences on the protected waters of Ibis Bay. There is the 2.5 hour Sunset Cruise and the 1.5 hour Nightrider Experience.  The Sunset Cruise launches an hour before sunset, allowing the group to get out to the open water while watching the sunset, then make the return trip in the dark with the full spectacle of the powerful LED lights shining into the crystal clear water below.  The Nightrider Experience launches 15-30 minutes after the Sunset Cruise returns (exact times vary with the season).

Launching right from the dock at IBIS BAY’s popular restaurant, The Stoned Crab, the adventures costs $55 per person for The Sunset Cruise and $45 for The Nightrider Experience. Each trip accommodates groups of up to 10 people.  What’s more, the IBIS BAY Paddle Sports guides narrate the tour and take high-quality photos that are uploaded wirelessly and put on CDs for each guest to take home when tour finishes back at IBIS BAY!  Guests will pass through many areas of interest including mangrove island rookeries that are the home of ibis, herons, pelicans and their fledglings.  Interested parties are encouraged to book in advance as tours are filling up quickly! Call IBIS BAY Paddle Sports at (305) 896-0342. 

About IBIS BAY Beach Resort: 
IBIS BAY Beach Resort (www.ibisbayresort.com) embodies the very best of Key West and offers guests a vacation experience like no other. With a full deck of options for active adventure-seekers, Hemingway buffs or travelers who want to fit in with the locals, there is something special for every guest. Featuring classic 1950s Key West architecture and design, 600 feet of beautiful private beach, a 20-foot poolside movie screen for outdoor movie nights and The Stoned Crab restaurant, IBIS BAY Beach Resort is more than a resort—it’s a destination.

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Venues Increase Scrutiny of Insurance Coverage in Wake of High Profile Live Event Tragedies

Following several recent high profile stage collapses and structure failures at live events around the world, many venues and municipalities are taking a closer look at the limits of coverage that are defined in the policies carried by event producers and vendors.  According to Take1 Entertainment Insurance Executive Vice President and Program Director Scott Carroll, live event vendors wishing to succeed and grow must carefully review their current insurance policies, or if they have none, consult with an insurance provider to protect them against loss and allow them to do business in a world that is increasingly aware of risk.


“Weather and other factors continue to produce worldwide headlines about stage collapses and incidents at public events, and they are vivid reminders of the potential for disaster and how much more tragic these disasters become if they or their partners are not properly insured,” Carroll said.  “At most public venues, there has always been a requirement for their vendors to carry insurance, but in many cases this requirement was not strongly enforced 100 percent of the time.  With the potential for losses growing as live events become increasingly sophisticated and expensive, and as extreme weather wreaks more and more havoc, the venues are beginning to strictly enforce this requirement, or else not allow the vendors to do business on their property.



“I recently received a call from a woman who needed insurance coverage for a flea market she manages, even though she’s done it for years and has never needed a policy before.  The municipality is now requiring that she carry insurance despite never having enforced this element of her contract in the past.  This is becoming a very common occurrence for events of all sizes.”



New venue requirements are not the only factor causing live event vendors to seek insurance advice.  After “Superstorm” Sandy pounded the northeast U.S., some business owners who thought their potential losses were small ended up losing a lot more than they ever imagined they could. 



Sandy changed many insured’s definition of risk.  For some, their previously acceptable amount of risk for which they were willing to self-insure (knowingly avoid purchasing insurance for something that is insurable) turned into large, unexpected losses.  Sandy proved that “it” can and does happen.



“I recommend that every live event vendor contact an insurance representative to discuss the risks they face, the costs of coverage and the cost to their business if they remain uninsured or under-insured.  As we’ve seen, small probabilities can turn in to big losses.  For any owners concerned they might be too small of a company whose insurance needs may not be taken seriously, Take1 just might be the right fit.  At Take1 we insure all kinds of companies, from the biggest of the big to the smallest of the small, and we pride ourselves on being a big voice for the little guys.  Remember, you are never too small to have a big loss.”



About U.S. Risk Insurance Group

U. S. Risk Insurance Group, Inc. is a specialty lines underwriting manager and wholesale broker headquartered in Dallas. Operating 12 domestic and international branches, it offers a broad range of products and services through its affiliate companies, which include U.S. Risk Underwriters, U.S. Risk Brokers, Lighthouse Underwriters, LLC, Professional Claims Managers, Omnisure Consulting Group, Oxford Insurance Brokers, Ltd. (London), Goss Reinsurance Brokers, LLC, and NovaPro Risk Solutions, LP.  Its entertainment division, Take1, has served as the official endorsed insurance provider for the last 15 years INFOCOMM, the leading association of A/V communications industry professionals.

Advanced Opens New State-Of-The-Art Toronto Office To Demonstrate SMART Technologies' Business Solutions

In a move to support its rapidly growing corporate AV business, Advanced, Canada’s leading and fastest growing AV and IT systems integration company, today announced the opening of a new state-of-the-art Toronto office to demonstrate the latest SMART Technologies’ business solutions for current and prospective customers. The new office is located in the heart of Toronto, in the heavily trafficked Eaton Centre and Yonge-Dundas Square, at 1 Dundas Street West, Suite 2500. The phone number of the new office is (800)-436-6239.




“Our new Toronto office marks an exciting new chapter for Advanced, as business continues to grow at an incredible rate,” said Mark Mulford, President & CEO of Advanced. “The office combines state-of-the-art technology with a personal approach to instruction that creates a positive and productive learning environment for our customers. We are now able to demonstrate all of the new SMART solutions while enhancing our overall service offering for corporate and higher education clients throughout Toronto.”

 

The new office, which is staffed by Advanced’s sales and engineering teams, features a SMART Board SB885ix interactive whiteboard, SMART 8070i interactive display, and NEC 42” displays with HD video conferencing solutions from Polycom. The office also features a common area and a boardroom that looks over the Toronto skyline.



“With this new office we are able to better serve the needs of the downtown market and use our new demo area to hold meetings and demonstrate a variety of products,” added Mulford.



About Advanced

Advanced is a leading audiovisual and collaborative communications company working with corporations, government agencies, healthcare, and educational organizations throughout Canada and beyond.  Dedicated to innovation in technology and services, Advanced has a strong set of businesses aligned to meet today’s needs.  The company offers presentation and videoconferencing solutions in addition to complete integrated systems, visual collaboration systems, rental and staging services, repair, maintenance, and value-added integration services including design and engineering, installation and audiovisual consulting. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, Advanced also has offices in Toronto, Ottawa, London and Sudbury with partner offices located in Montreal, Calgary and Vancouver. To learn more visit www.advanced-inc.com.

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

CORE Brands Appoints Mitchell Witten Brand Manager For Niles and Sunfire

Strengthening its audio products management team, CORE® Brands today announced the appointment of industry veteran Mitchell Witten to the position of Brand Manager for Niles® and Sunfire®, according to an announcement made today by CORE Brands Audio Segment Director Mark Weisenberg, to whom Witten reports.

“The Niles and Sunfire brands are iconic to both custom installation dealers and consumers,” Weisenberg said today, “and now these great brands have a uniquely qualified brand steward who can ensure that they remain iconic for years to come. Mitch brings more than 20 years of strategic industry experience to our team and this experience is going to immediately benefit our many loyal dealers and consumers who expect the very best in innovation, performance, and value from Niles and Sunfire products.”

Witten comes to his new position at CORE Brands from Monster Products, Inc., where he served as Senior Product Area Manager since 2009 with responsibility for all aspects of audio and wireless technology product development. Prior to this, from 2005 through 2009, Witten was the owner of and principal consultant at 1 Bear & Associates, a Coronado, California based consulting company focused on the marketing and sales of high performance consumer electronics products and technologies.

Other industry experience includes serving as Vice President of Sales and Marketing, as well as Vice President of Marketing and Product Planning, at SONANCE, a division of Dana Innovations, over a period that ran from 2000 through 2005. He also served as Vice President of Business Development at Pioneer Electronics (USA), Inc. from 1997 to 2000 and Vice President of Market Development at Infinity Systems (a Harman International Company) from 1992 to 1997. Additional experience was acquired at Faroudja Laboratories, Cinema Products Corporation, TEAC America, dbx, Lanier/Harris Corp., Third Century Marketing, and Tech HiFi & Audio Innovators.

Witten is a graduate of Harvard College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. He is a former member of the CEA Audio Board and CEA MRAV Board and remains very active in the CE and CI industries, often acting as a corporate representative, volunteer, instructor and public speaker for the CEA, CEDIA, HTSA, PARA, PRO, HES, NATM, DAA, ERA and IPRO. A founding member of the Academy for the Advancement of High Performance Audio & Video, Witten has also received numerous industry association and publication design and engineering awards.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Travelocity® Unveils New Waterproof Cases For All Mobile Devices at CES 2013

Moving to meet the growing market demand for cost effective ways to keep valuable smartphones, tablets and e-readers safe from damage caused by water and sand, the Travelocity® division of MIZCO International today announced the market introduction of three new water- and sand-proof cases. The new cases are being showcased at CES 2013 in Booth #30842 in South Hall 3 of the Las Vegas Convention Center, according to David Strumeier, Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing for MIZCO’s Travelocity division.

The new “Travelocity Waterproof Series” is a ready-to-go in-store product and merchandising program that features three cases — a universal smartphone case, an e-reader case and a tablet case that will fit all 9-10” tablets on the market. Every case in the line features a watertight seal, control access through a clear window, an adjustable neck or shoulder strap, a watertight 3.5mm auxiliary jack and built-in UV protection. Available for immediate delivery, the Travelocity Waterproof Series smartphone, e-reader and tablet cases carry retail prices of $9.99, $14.99 and $19.99, respectively.



“The response of our retail partners to the 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 millions of travelers 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.



“The fact of the matter is that millions of travelers take their phones, tablets and e-readers with them wherever they go, indoors and outdoors,” Strumeier emphasized.  “These consumers need a line of high quality, affordably priced cases that can keep their devices safe from the damage caused by exposure to water and sand — the two most significant threats to these devices.  Our new line of Travelocity Water-Proof/Sand-Proof Series Cases more than meets this growing market demand.”



Also making its debut at CES 2013 is the new Travelocity Universal Sport Armband Series.  Available in navy, pink and black, the Universal Sport Armband offers complete protection for iPhones, iPods and smartphones while ensuring continuous screen visibility and control access through its clear front window. Constructed in soft, comfortable neoprene, the Universal Sport Armband is lightweight, washable and bordered with reflective material to provide extra visibility when outdoors. The armband features an adjustable Velcro band for personalized sizing, and the case design allows for dock and charger connection. The Travelocity Universal Sport Armband retails for $9.99 and is available for immediate delivery.



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, MIZCO Sports, 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.

ECKOUNLTD "Lights Up" CES 2013 With New GLOW Earbuds

The ECKOUNLTD division of MIZCO International is demonstrating the “brilliance” of its unique fashion & function fusion design philosophy at CES 2013 with the market introduction of a new line of glow-in-the-dark earbud style headphones, available for immediate delivery in six colors — blue, green, red, orange, yellow and pink.  The introduction of the new line was made by Steve Kops, Vice President of Sales for the ECKOUNLTD division of MIZCO International at Booth #30842 in South Hall 3 of the Las Vegas Convention Center.



“The new GLOW earbuds are a perfect expression of Marc’s vision of how the consumer electronics industry should better fuse together fashion and function,” Kops said today. “Every product in the ECKOUNLTD line is designed to offer consumers state-of-the-art technology embedded in a fashion-forward design aesthetic. Thanks to its glow-in-the-dark finish, the GLOW earbuds offer consumers a unique twist on traditional earbud design, and allows them the opportunity to show off their earbuds no matter the lighting environment.”



GLOW earbuds feature its namesake glow-in-the-dark, 1.2-meter, tangle-free cable cord, and a vertical in-ear earbud design that isolates noise. Featuring a gold-plated 3.5mm plug and an in-line microphone, GLOW also comes with a silicon carrying case. The headphones produce a high-quality, rich sound with heavy bass response, featuring a 7.8mm driver, an impedance of 16 ohms at 1kHz, a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz, and a sensitivity of 98 dB SPL at 1 kHz. Available for $29.99, in blue, green, red, orange, yellow and pink, GLOW earbuds are available for immediate delivery.



The GLOW earbuds are part of the third generation of ECKOUNLTD earbuds. This generation features three models in addition to GLOW — BUBBLE, TREK and STEALTH. All models in the line are available in a wide variety of colors and feature a 1.2m cord. The headphones carry suggested retail prices of $19.99 to $39.99 and feature built-in microphones and controls.



About Marc Ecko Enterprises

Marc Ecko Enterprises is a full-scale global fashion and lifestyle company with reported sales of over $1.5 billion in 2009 and approximately 1,000 employees worldwide. Over the past 17 years, the group of companies that comprise Marc Ecko Enterprises (MEE) has grown to include: Ecko Unltd., the largest young men’s brand in better department stores today; Eckored, a young women’s brand both identified by the ‘World Famous Rhino’ logo; Marc Ecko Cut & Sew, a contemporary menswear line; Marc Ecko Entertainment, an interactive entertainment and videogame unit; and Complex Media LLC, a publishing and new media division.



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, MIZCO Sports, 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.


Tuesday, January 8, 2013

DIGIPOWER “Powers Up” Its Universal Charging Solutions at CES 2013

Underscoring its commitment to provide users with innovatively designed, affordably priced universal charging solutions for all of their mobile devices, MIZCO International’s DIGIPOWER division today introduced two new universal chargers — the JS-IPSP “RECHARGE” Power Bank for iPod, iPhone and micro-USB devices and the PD-ST2 Universal Charging Dock in Apple and Android models.  The two new chargers were debuted at Booth #30842 at the 2013 International CES in Las Vegas, Nevada by DIGIPOWER President Maurice Mizrahi.



Providing 5000mAh of power, the JS-IPSP “Recharge” is a compact power pack for iPod, iPhone and micro-USB devices capable of rapidly charging any portable USB device a consumer may have, including mobile phones, tablets, cameras, GPS devices and handheld gaming devices. Its super compact design features one MFI 30-pin Apple connector and one micro-USB connector, allowing for two devices to be charged simultaneously.  Both cables are built in to the power pack providing convenient storage and portability when not in use.  The pack has a 4-segment LED power indicator, a 3.3-feet charging cable and can provide up to five full charges before needing to be replenished.



“More and more frequently, consumers are carrying multiple devices, made by multiple manufacturers, each with their own charging needs,” Mizrahi stressed today. “Our JP-ISPS allows mobile device users to charge all their devices from one portable power source, no matter if it is an Apple product, an Android device or another micro-USB powered device. Finally, consumers no longer need to carry several chargers with them to charge all of their devices, and retailers only have to carry one SKU to support multiple devices, helping to save space and simplify their business.”



The new DIGIPOWER PD-ST2 Universal Charging Dock is available in both Apple and Android compatible models, and features a dock connector that pivots to accommodate the differences in device measurements that occur when new generations of devices are released.  The 5.5-feet USB cable allows for directly connecting to a computer to charge and sync, or to an AC adapter (sold separately) for wall charging.  The Apple model is compatible with all 30-pin Apple products, and the Android version is compatible with all Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets as well as most eReaders and Android smart phones.



“As manufacturers release generations of products, mobile device users are often facing the problem of having devices that are not consistent in thickness or width,” Mizrahi said. “With our Universal Charging Dock pivoting connector, users can be sure all their devices will be accommodated by one charging solution, and no longer will they have to replace chargers every time a new product generation is on the market!



“We strive to provide retailers and consumers with the most useful technology innovations that both increase sales and simplify the lives of buyers,” Mizrahi continued. “These additions to our Universal selection of portable power and charging solutions are our answers to solving the issues associated with today’s mobile lifestyle.”



About MIZCO International

Headquartered in Avenel, New Jersey, MIZCO International is the world's fastest growing supplier 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, MIZCO Sports, ToughTested, 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.

MIZCO Sports “Takes The Field” at CES 2013 With Introduction Of First Line-Up of NFL® Team Logoed Portable Power Products

Following through on its promise to provide dealers with an entirely new level of creativity, innovation and quality in sports licensed merchandise, MIZCO Sports, the newly created division of MIZCO International, today opened CES 2013 with an undisputed touch down play— the introduction of a complete line of individual team-logoed portable power solutions that incorporate each individual team’s colors throughout the product design!


While unveiling the new division’s first team line-up at Booth #30842 in South Hall 3 of the Las Vegas Convention Center, MIZCO Sports Vice President David Strumeier emphasized that, “When we formed MIZCO Sports we committed ourselves to establishing a new benchmark that would translate immediately into major new sales opportunities for our retailers — and the line we are introducing today does just that.  Each team-logoed charger not only features the team logo, it features the individual colors of the team throughout the product design. No other company has done this before.  The days of simply putting a team logo on a product are gone, at least as far as MIZCO Sports is concerned.”



Products being introduced today for delivery on April 1st include USB Car & Wall Chargers that are compatible with most mobile devices requiring a USB port for charging and power, that plugs into a vehicle’s 12V adapter for on-the-go charging or any standard home outlet (100-240V). Retailing for $17.99, the unit features an LED indicator to show charging status, and a compact design for easy storage.

 

Also being introduced is a series of Car Chargers for Apple devices. Compatible with all 12V power supplies, the charger has a dedicated Apple connector, a one-hour charge time and saves device battery power, with a retail price of $19.99.



Finally, there is a series of 3-in-1 Car/Wall USB Chargers compatible with smartphones, tablets, and other USB devices. Carrying a retail price of $29.99, the 3-in-1 device features dual USB ports that allow for two devices to be charged simultaneously and folding AC blades and car charger connector for maximum portability and easy storage. 



 “Every product will be available with every NFL team’s logo and team colors,” stressed MIZCO Sports Executive Vice President of Sales Jeff Strumeier.  “This is a critical distinction that provides our dealers with a major advantage in selling to their customers.  What’s more, we will be introducing a complete range of self-merchandising displays with the product roll out in April.  Our goal is to provide retailers with a turn-key in-store sales and merchandising program that will maximize sales all through the football season and beyond for those dealers who sell licensed sports merchandise year-round.”



According to David Strumeier, additional NFL team logoed travel and portable power products will follow the initial April deliveries and include Android and Apple chargers, USB power accessories, universal USB car and wall chargers, hands-free microphones, in-car E-ZPass® holders, memory foam tablet cases, retractable cables, rubberized smartphone and tablet holders, eye masks, cooling and heating stadium seats, waterproof cases for iPhone®, iPad®, and eReaders, ponchos, travel pillows, travel blankets, laundry bags, and foldable travel bags.



About MIZCO International

Headquartered in Avenel, New Jersey, MIZCO International (www.mizco.com) is the world's fastest growing supplier 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 ToughTested, 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

Monday, January 7, 2013

Stampede Predicts 2013 Is The Year Unified Communications Becomes A Practical Reality


The November 2012 announcement by Vidyo that its innovative software platform is being incorporated into Wii UTM Chat, a video communication service that is included with every Nintendo Wii U console, opens the door to a future where peer-to-peer communication will become a daily part of every consumer’s video game play, according to Stampede President & COO Kevin Kelly, and this reality speaks volumes about what lies ahead for profitable peer-to-peer communication in business.

In fact, Kelly predicted today, Vidyo’s announcement represents the tipping point that now transforms a trend toward low-cost video conferencing into a ‘stampede’ toward widespread, peer-to-peer Unified Communications that promises to create unprecedented new business opportunities for ProAV dealers who are equipped and educated to take advantage of all the new field offers.

“Over the last several years we have all seen and experienced how video conferencing has become an increasingly important part of our lives,” Kelly explained.  “What began as high-end video conferencing through dedicated tele-presence systems from companies like CISCO has evolved through lower-cost dedicated VC systems that can be leased for under $100 a month to software-based PC video conferencing solutions, to device-based conferencing. The fact that all of these different conferencing systems can now be combined at any given time, and in a variety of different configurations, is what makes the old era of video conferencing the new era of Unified Communications.”



Kelly believes that 2013 will be the year that Unified Communications becomes a major new growth opportunity for dealers in virtually every vertical market, offering end-users a wide selection of product offerings that cover every need from dedicated enterprise-wide video conferencing systems to software-based, PC-attached solutions.



Even more importantly, according to Kelly, dealers now have the opportunity to benefit not only from the sale of VC hardware and software, but also from the associated sales of displays, audio equipment, and other components that users of VC software surely need to have. Also, the ongoing service contracts on video conferencing systems create annuities for VC dealers that are unheard of in any other sector of the ProAV industry.



“The increased number of video conferencing endpoints is changing the way that people view the need to videoconference, and more people are taking notice of the endless opportunities that VC offers,” added Kelly. “The responsibility now lies with VC dealers to learn more about how Unified Communications can benefit them and their customer base, so that they can be prepared to offer the absolute best in the coming year.”



About Stampede

Known for its value-added distribution, Amherst, New York-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.