Top Teams Room Devices for Maximizing Corporate Collaboration

With the rise of hybrid work environments and frequent guest collaborations, most businesses require straightforward and efficient conferencing solutions. Microsoft Teams Rooms (MTR) offer a seamless solution for enhancing meeting experiences, ensuring that teams can collaborate efficiently, regardless of their location. Knowing the technologies available, is essential to providing clients with the best equipment to set up these rooms. Let’s explore the top Teams Room devices available from Exertis Almo while covering the basics of setting up and optimizing Microsoft Teams Rooms.

MaxHub Ultra Wide 105 in. for hybrid work meetingsWhat equipment is needed for a Teams meeting?

To ensure a successful Teams meeting or to set up a Teams Room, having the right equipment is crucial. This includes reliable computing hardware, high-quality audio and video devices, and control systems that make managing meetings effortless. Here are the key components you’ll need:

  1. Reliable Computing Hardware: A desktop, laptop, or dedicated Teams device.
  2. High-Quality Audio and Video Equipment: Microphones, speakers, and video cameras.
  3. Stable Internet Connection: Ensures smooth communication without interruptions.
  4. Display Screens: For sharing presentations and viewing participants.
  5. Control Devices: Touch panels or consoles to manage meetings.

Jabra PanaCast 50 grayExertis Almo offers a range of devices that meet these needs, such as the Jabra PanaCast 50 Intelligent Video Bar which transforms video conferencing. With features such as dynamic composition, intelligent speaker, and virtual director, it ensures optimal collaboration by adjusting views and focusing on active speakers. Its advanced AI, including intelligent zoom and dual-stream whiteboard, makes Teams meetings immersive and easy to use.

What are the major components of Microsoft Teams Rooms?

Creating a fully functional Microsoft Teams Room involves integrating several major components that work together to provide a seamless meeting experience. These components ensure that meetings are easy to manage, and that audio and video quality are top-notch. Here are the essential elements:

  1. Control Console: A touch panel for easy meeting management.
  2. Camera: A high-definition camera for clear video.
  3. Microphone and Speakers: For clear audio input and output.
  4. Computer Module: A mini-PC or similar device to run the Teams Room application.
  5. Digital Display: One or more screens for video conferencing and content sharing.

Huddly IQ ePTZ cameraFor example, the Huddly IQ ePTZ Cameras are excellent for boosting meeting engagement with their AI-directed multi-camera system.

The MAXHUB Commercial Display Ultra-Wide Series is perfect for MTR, featuring a 105″ collaboration display with a 21:9 aspect ratio and 5K resolution.

MaxHub XT Series Kit for MTRThe MAXHUB XT Series Kit for Microsoft Teams Rooms includes a computer, touch console, and integrated video bar, providing ultimate scalability for any meeting room setup.

What are the benefits of Microsoft Teams Rooms?

Microsoft Teams Rooms offer several benefits:

  1. Enhanced Collaboration: Facilitates better communication and teamwork.
  2. Ease of Use: One-touch join, and intuitive interfaces make it easy to start and manage meetings.
  3. High-Quality Audio and Video: Ensures clear communication.
  4. Scalability: Suitable for rooms of all sizes, from small huddle spaces to large conference rooms.
  5. Integration with Microsoft 365: Seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft tools and services.

By using top Teams Room devices, you can ensure that your conference room projects are equipped with the latest technology to maximize collaboration and productivity.

In Conclusion

Providing your clients with the right equipment for Microsoft Teams Rooms can significantly enhance their meeting experiences. By offering high-quality, reliable solutions from Exertis Almo, you position yourself as a trusted resource, ensuring your clients’ video conferencing needs are perfectly met.

The team at Exertis Almo is committed to providing our AV reseller and integrator partners with the latest and most innovative collaboration solutions for Teams Rooms and more. Contact us for a consultation, a quote, help with Microsoft licenses, and more.

Lisa Lingo, Category Manager – Collaboration

Still curious about collaboration solutions? Check out Lisa Lingo’s blog, “Stop, Collaborate and Listen“.

Why Is Quality Important When Selecting Audio?

I was pondering this topic recently when I met a friend for lunch at one of my favorite eatery places. They recently moved to a new location and ever since moving, it’s been difficult to really enjoy eating at the place. My friend and I were discussing how incredibly loud the place gets, to the point that it’s difficult to really have a conversation with each other.  As a result, I often just pick up the food and bring it home.  This situation really made me wonder what was missing in the audio design when they moved to this new location. I decided to do some research by talking to our Exertis Almo Audio Experts to gain some insight and, hopefully, help you avoid this common mistake.

When choosing the audio technology for a project, every installation is a reflection of your brand and reputation. Customers expect their audio systems to perform without trouble, and it’s essential to select quality solutions that deliver exceptional functionality and reliability. Fortunately, there are many high-quality audio options with cost-conscious price tags, so you won’t have to compromise on excellence.

Additionally, quality is often reflected in the ease of installation. Specifically in meeting rooms, huddle spaces, and classrooms, audio technology should be simple to use and strive to avoid any frustration for the end-user. This simplicity can help ensure that the technology is used effectively, avoiding the common pitfall of equipment going unused due to user confusion.

Here are a few key considerations when selecting quality audio technology.

Assess your environment.

Before installing audio equipment, it’s important to evaluate the space itself, as there are many factors that affect audio quality. It’s essential to consider the acoustics of an environment, as a particular space might require a few changes to adjust the echo and create a more comfortable listening experience once the audio equipment is installed.

In fact, it’s common to run into acoustical issues in multi-use spaces, as they’re designed with several functions in mind. For example, a school might utilize a single space for their gym and auditorium, which can cause acoustical design to be overlooked.  In essence, you’ll want to assess an environment before investing in any audio technology, as acoustical treatment is an essential step in providing a high-quality audio experience.

Consider service and warranty.

Along with functionality and reliability, quality often correlates with the level and service and warranty provided by manufacturers. Although you aim to avoid any issues with a particular product, you should ensure that support is readily available if problems arise with a manufacturer’s technology. This aspect of product selection is frequently overlooked, but having a product warranty and readily available support can help save time and protect your reputation with your customers.

See the products in action.

When you get to experience the way in which products function across various environments, you can understand the practical applications of those solutions. There are a variety of educational resources available to strengthen your understanding of a product, and you can later apply that knowledge in the field to truly understand how the technology functions in a particular space.

Don’t overlook the audio.

If you’re looking to achieve high-quality audio in a space, it’s essential to ensure that the audio is not overlooked in the planning and design process. Oftentimes, the visual aspects receive far more attention, like displays and protection technology. In order to design a well-rounded, comfortable space for users, the audio and visual components must both be at the top of the list.

The bottom line is that quality audio is paramount for successful, comfortable communication.

For me, the main takeaway was simply that it’s crucial to assess the environment, because, in my scenario, the restaurant would have identified ways to absorb the noise. Would that have fixed it completely?  It would make it more comfortable for their patrons to chat, and they’d potentially spend more time and money.  It might’ve cost a few more dollars, which would have paid off in the long run.

You always have available resources to assist with all of your audio and video needs at Exertis Almo.  Please feel free to contact me or your Exertis Almo team.

Check out Angie’s previous blog, “Is TAA Compliance Required for Audio?“.
Angie Greene
About the Author

Angie Greene | DSCE

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: Panasonic Connect

The Value of Expertise

“Old age and treachery beats youth and enthusiasm every time” is an old saying that I’ve used on numerous occasions – certainly, more often now as I continue to make laps around the sun.

A colleague and I had a fun bit of banter on this topic recently:

Him: Youth provides new perspectives and new solutions.
Me: But lacks maturity, wisdom and expertise.
Him: and fear and baggage, and bad habits to unlearn.
Me: “Old Age and Treachery Beats Youth and Enthusiasm Every Time.”
Him: There is value to both.
Me: Can arrive at solutions quickly. Avoids common pitfalls. Can discern between real change and fads.
Him: There is value to both.

(When you repeat yourself, you’ve lost. Just sayin’)

train station EnglandWant to know something? Ask someone who has been around a while. An example of this was back in 2007 as I got off the train in Guilford in Surrey, England. I needed directions to my hotel and since the information center was closed, I made inquiry with the nearest group of locals. They were younger and had never heard of the place. Their knowledge was limited. Afterwards I sought assistance from a much older person that I saw. Instant useable information. He knew his small town and how to get around.

A deep knowledge level was evident with a colleague of mine that recently retired. He had well over 30 years in AV and was well versed in products, applications, installations and the audiovisual business as a whole. Extremely knowledgeable with field experience, always willing to assist, mentor and never arrogant. (That description actually fits almost all of “The Greats” that I’ve ever been associated with in this industry and it’s one of the unique things that I treasure about it.)

I was first introduced to this new colleague right after Exertis and Almo became Exertis Almo. As audio people tend to do, we like to size one another up in conversation. What we really want to know is whether or not this person knows their stuff. There are a lot of supposed audio people out there and we want to separate the wheat from the chaff very quickly so we’re not wasting our time.

As an aside, it’s said that the only thing two sound people can agree on is how to spend a third sound person’s money.

Audio people can be a very opinionated bunch.

team opinions collaborationIn this case, what I discovered was a person with much the same in product preferences and a similar approach in design philosophy. It was very beneficial, when either of us got a project, to get on a Zoom call to discuss, assess and quickly arrive at an effective design approach. Yes, the client may have been inquiring about a product or solution they’d seen but we could also look beyond at what problem they might be trying to address with that equipment or inquiry. It helped us to better get to a real solution rather than just coming up with a list of boxes that could be sold. There’s a lot of value in that and it comes only with experience.

From the friendly banter noted above, my colleague mentioned that youth can provide new perspectives and solutions without fear, baggage and bad habits to unlearn. I wholeheartedly agree with that position. Conversely, the old guard brings maturity, wisdom and we can assess a situation and arrive at an effective solution quickly. If we lack information, we know how and where to research and we know whose opinion we can trust. We can discern fact from fiction and learned many years ago that certain types of products are not a one-size-fits-all. Further, since we’ve been around a while, we can discern between something that can bring real change vs. just another fad. We’re the same ones that have seen 3D come and go. Twice. (We’ll let you know when it’s actually viable.)

Over time, we’ve built relationships and trust around the industry and we can be honest with each other if the product isn’t a good fit.

Many years ago, I was the one with all the youth and enthusiasm. I had the ability to spout off with complete confidence whatever I was told by someone that had been around audio longer than I had. That’s not smart in an industry that is already filled with misconceptions. Thankfully, I started under the tutelage of a wise mentor and he remains one of my closest friends to this day.

FireWire interfaceTruthfully, you need the best of both youth and maturity if you’re not going to be left with a warehouse of FireWire interfaces or trying to sell solutions that promise to change everything but in practice, have limited application.

Which is really what we want anyway, right? The ability and foresight to embrace new possibilities guided with mature wisdom.

If you would like to tap into that right balance of youth and maturity, give our team here at Exertis Almo a call and we’ll be glad to provide some guidance on your next project.

If you enjoyed this blog, check out Tom’s “Choose Quality AV” blog for more insights.

Tom Kehr

About the Author

Tom Kehr

CTS-D, CTS-I, Network+, LEED Green Associate, ISF-C, ATD Master Trainer

In-House System Designer and Trainer

Supported Applications: System Design

Amping Up Government Operations: Rocking Out with Cutting-Edge AV Gear

Hey there, fellow PROAV rockstars! We’re all about pushing the boundaries of tech wizardry, and guess what? Our skills aren’t just for concert halls and boardrooms. Nope, we’re taking our show on the road straight to the heart of government operations. So crank up the volume as we dive into how our cutting-edge AV gear is making waves in the public sector!

rocking-avCrystal-Clear Communication

When it comes to effective messaging, static just won’t cut it. High-definition video conferencing, interactive displays, dvLED walls, and digital signage ensure that government officials and the public stay tuned in and turned on to what’s happening, whether it’s a virtual summit or the latest policy updates.

Jamming Out Informed Decision-Making

With top-of-the-line AV gear, policymakers can visualize data in real-time, spot trends, and make evidence-based decisions. Think command centers lit up like a stage, where officials riff on emerging challenges and opportunities, all thanks to tech prowess.

Hands-On Training: Interactive Displays that Rock

CreateBoard Interactive displaysWho said training has to be boring? With the latest interactive displays, training sessions become an immersive experience that gets everyone pumped. Picture this: government employees in front of massive touchscreens, collaborating on real-time scenarios, and solving problems together like a band jamming out a new hit.

Enter LG CreateBoard—the ultimate interactive display that transforms learning into a dynamic, hands-on experience. These displays let users annotate, share, and engage with content effortlessly, whether it’s brainstorming in a war room or walking through emergency response protocols. With multi-touch capabilities and seamless integration with other devices, LG CreateBoard makes sure everyone is in sync, hitting all the right notes.

Keeping an Eye on Security and Surveillance

Safety first, always! High-resolution surveillance cameras and integrated security systems safeguard public spaces and infrastructure. For a high-flying twist, we have several drone manufacturers that provide exceptional aerial surveillance, with the ability to monitor large events, inspect infrastructure, and provide real-time footage during emergencies. Equipped with advanced sensors and AI capabilities, these drones offer unparalleled situational awareness, helping government agencies respond to incidents faster and more effectively.

Professional Audio: Rock-Solid Sound for Government Ops

When it comes to government communication, hitting the right notes is everything. Professional audio systems are the unsung heroes that keep the beat, ensuring every word lands like a power chord in a packed arena. We’re talking advanced mics, booming speakers, and sound tech that rocks every room, from city council meetings to courtroom showdowns.

Assisted Listening Devices: Amping Up Inclusivity

assistive listening with Listen EVERYWHERENow, let’s crank it up a notch for our audience with hearing impairments. Assisted listening devices (ALDs) are like the VIP passes that make sure everyone gets front-row sound, no matter where they’re seated. One of the rockstars in this space is Listen Technologies with their Listen EVERYWHERE system. This cutting-edge solution streams audio directly to users’ smartphones, letting them tap into the sound with their own headphones or hearing aids. Whether it’s hearing loops that sync up with hearing aids or infrared systems that cut through the noise, these bad boys plug right into the AV setup, delivering crystal-clear audio straight to those who need it most.

By plugging ALDs like Listen EVERYWHERE into the mix, government spaces become more than just inclusive—they become places where every voice counts and no one misses a beat. It’s all about making sure the rhythm of communication keeps everyone in the groove, turning public spaces into inclusive arenas where everyone’s part of the show.

Remote Monitoring: A Game-Changer for Government Applications

In an age where agility and responsiveness are key, remote monitoring of commercial displays is revolutionizing government operations. Imagine command centers with real-time updates, remote troubleshooting, and instant content changes, all managed from a centralized location. This not only ensures seamless communication and coordination but also enhances efficiency by reducing the need for on-site interventions. LG Connected Care DMS exemplifies this by providing comprehensive remote management and monitoring capabilities, ensuring that displays are always performing optimally. Whether it’s for monitoring public announcements, emergency alerts, or routine updates, remote monitoring ensures that government agencies are always in control and a step ahead. rock on

So there you have it! Cutting-edge AV gear isn’t just for show—it’s the secret sauce behind government operations that rock. As PROAV professionals, staying ahead of the curve ensures we keep the tunes pumping and build stronger, more dynamic communities for a brighter future. Rock on!

Tiff Jones-Morton headshot-frame
About the Author

Tiff Jones-Morton | DSCE

BDM – Brand Specialist

Supported Manufacturers: LG Business Solutions (NE, SE, MW)

Contact Exertis Almo for product info, inventory availability, or to start a quote.

Behind the Panel: Unlocking the Power of the Venture VideoBAR

For this edition of Behind the Panel, I am breaking away from my normal fare, because I am genuinely excited about the launch of this product. It seems like everyone is making an “all-in-one” conferencing solution. In the innovative world of Pro AV, the Vaddio Venture® VideoBAR stands out as a game-changer for meetings, presentations, and collaboration. Whether you are new to this space or just seeking a high-quality video solution, understanding the Venture VideoBAR can significantly enhance your meetings and presentations. As I mentioned, there are a lot of players in this space, and the folks at Vaddio really took their time in developing this piece so it would stand out in a crowded market. Enough chatter, time to get into this thing!

What is the Big Deal with the Vaddio Venture® VideoBAR?

Vaddio Venture VideoBARSo, why all the buzz about the Vaddio Venture VideoBar? Picture this: you’ve got an important meeting, and you need everyone to be seen and heard perfectly, whether they are in the room or joining remotely. The Venture VideoBAR is designed to handle just that with style and ease.

One of the standout features is its high-definition video capability. We’re talking 4K Ultra HD, which means your video feed will be super clear and sharp, even if you are in a space with tricky lighting. No more squinting at fuzzy screens or struggling to hear people talk – this video bar ensures everyone looks and sounds great.

What Sets It Apart from the Rest?

You might be wondering what makes the Vaddio Venture VideoBAR different from other all-in-one video bars out there. Well, it’s all about the minute details that make a significant difference.

First off, it has a wide-angle lens that captures a generous 120-degree field of view. This means it’s perfect for larger rooms or meetings with a lot of participants. You will not need to worry about someone being cut out of the frame – everyone can be seen clearly, no matter where they are sitting.

Venture VideoBAR and TableMICAnother cool feature is the intelligent auto-framing. This smart tech automatically adjusts the camera to focus on whoever is speaking or the whole group, depending on what is happening. It’s like having a personal cameraman who never misses a beat. This means less fiddling with controls and more focus on the conversation.

And don’t forget, like all Vaddio cameras, you can download the free Vaddio Deployment Tool desktop application, you an easily deploy and manage hundreds of Vaddio devices!

Setting Up? Piece of Cake.

One of the best things about the Vaddio Venture VideoBAR is how easy it is to set up and use. It connects via USB, so you don’t need to worry about complicated wiring or additional drivers. Just plug it in, and you are good to go. It is designed to be user-friendly, which means you can get up and running without needing a tech wizard on hand. Need a mic for people farther back in the room? No problem, just add an optional TableMIC to the solution, connected by a single category cable. Need more? You can daisy chain up to three of them! Double bonus: It is Barco ClickShare compatible right out of the box!

Where Can You Use It?

The versatility of the Venture VideoBAR makes it a great fit for a variety of settings. Here is where it can really shine:

  • Corporate Offices: Whether you are hosting a team meeting, a client presentation, or a company-wide briefing, the Venture Video Bar has you covered. Its high-quality video and audio make virtual meetings feel more like in-person interactions, enhancing collaboration and communication.
  • Venture VideoBAR and TableMIC in 3 roomsClassrooms and Training Rooms: Teachers and trainers will appreciate the clear visuals and sound, making it easier to engage students or trainees. It is a great tool for hybrid learning environments where you need to connect with people both in the room and online.
  • Healthcare Settings: For telemedicine or virtual consultations, the Venture VideoBAR ensures that medical professionals and patients can see and hear each other clearly. This can improve the quality of remote healthcare services and make consultations more effective.
  • Public Sector and Government: If you participate in public meetings or community outreach, this video bar can help facilitate clear and professional communications. It’s an excellent tool for ensuring that everyone involved in the meeting or event can participate fully.

In a Nutshell

If you are diving into the Pro AV space and looking for a top-notch all-in-one video solution, the Vaddio Venture VideoBAR is worth checking out. With its crisp 4K video, wide-angle lens, smart auto-framing, and super easy setup, it is designed to make your meetings and presentations smoother and more effective. Plus, its versatility means it can fit right into various environments, from corporate offices to classrooms and beyond. So, if you are ready to take your AV game to the next level, the Venture VideoBAR might just be your new best friend. Here’s the kicker: It does all this with a MSRP UNDER $1000!! That’s right, a 4K, all-in-one solution that is in your customer’s hands for less than a grand! Find out more! Happy conferencing!

Coming Soon! The Venture® VideoBAR Series (SKU: 999-50909-000) Venture® TableMIC Series (SKU: 999-85909-000). Shipping September 2024. Contact your Exertis Almo representative now to place an order.

Patrick Booth, BDM

About the Author

Patrick Booth | CTS, DSCE

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: Legrand AVChief, C2G, Da-Lite, Luxul, Middle Atlantic, Vaddio, Wiremold

Is TAA-Compliance Required for Audio?

With government season upon us until September, I thought it would be interesting to do a little exploration into TAA compliance specifically as it relates to the Audio portion of our business.  As the BDM for EA for the Panasonic line, I’m often asked for TAA compliance with projectors and displays.   Of late, I’ve had the occasional request for TAA compliance in Audio products.

Let’s explore the details and nuances of TAA compliance in the context of audio equipment.

TAA Compliant logoFirst, what is TAA compliance?

As defined by the Government Services Administration, Trade Agreement Act (TAA) Compliance refers to certain requirements and guidelines that products must meet when operating within United States government applications. The GSA notes that products may fit into two categories to be considered TAA Compliant:

  1. Articles that are wholly the growth, product, or manufacturer of the U.S. or a designated country.
  2. Articles that are “substantially transformed” in the U.S. or a designated country into a new and different article of commerce with a name, character, or use distinct from that of the article or articles from which it was transformed.

TAA state and local government officeIf you are looking to learn more, you can find the full details here.

In a conversation with Tom Kehr, Exertis Almo Systems Designer and Trainer, he provides insight into the uses, trends, and requirements of TAA-compliance audio products.

He explains that TAA-compliance is normally for government uses, applying to government agencies and government contractors. In fact, Tom notes that TAA-compliance is not only becoming more of a requirement in audio products, but also with the components.

“The thought process behind TAA-compliance is to mitigate issues getting products,” he said. “If current trade practices are disrupted in a certain area, it depends on whether or not they can continue their business.”

Josh Taylor, Exertis Almo Director of Pro AV Sales, and Trae Fackler, Exertis Almo Senior Account Manager, detail the popularity of TAA-compliant solutions, stating that between the end of fall and the beginning of summer, about half of the quotes are going to revolve around TAA-compliance. Additionally, they explain that TAA-compliance is typically the focus for government applications, above price and availability.

“It all depends on the end user and the end location,” Trae explained. “The dealer usually informs up upfront and states that TAA-compliance is a requirement.”

gov technology regulationsMoreover, a key component of TAA-compliance is the idea of substantial transformation, and navigating TAA-compliance comes with challenges. Manufacturers ensure compliance through third-party validation of their products, but complexities arise due to the varying interpretations of “substantial transformation” and the origin of components. This process depends on the product and tends to be quite subjective, as independent companies can validate whether there is enough of a difference between an incoming part and a final product.

While the above definitions explain that TAA-compliant products must be manufactured or substantially transformed in the U.S. or a designated country, it’s also important to understand the distinction between TAA-compliant products and TAA-certified products.

When speaking with Petro Shimonishi, Director of Product Management at Panasonic Connect North America, she provided insight into the confusion and complications that arise with TAA-compliance, explaining that the higher level of security, the more detailed the requirements. In fact, Petro explained the difference between government agencies in relation to TAA-compliant products.

“State and local governments are not required to have TAA-compliance, unless they’re funded by federal grants or funding,” she explained. “Since the terms of the funding might need to comply with federal procurement, resellers should consider state and local government applications for this reason.”

Panasonic Connect TAA-compliant productsShe also notes that there is a great deal of business in education applications, as most of their contracts are funded by the federal government, and there are often changes in the about of funding received. It is advisable to provide products that meet federal acquisition regulations (FAR), ensuring adherence to security, labor, and environmental standards.

For those aiming to expand into government contracts, familiarity with TAA compliance is essential. And as the landscape continues to evolve, staying updated and proactive in TAA compliance will be pivotal for success in the government sector.

As far as TAA compliance for Audio products, I think it’s still something that’s evolving with time.  There are only a few manufactures that offer TAA compliance for Audio products today.  However, it’s most important to make sure you are sourcing your products from reputable legitimate and reputable organizations such as us, Exertis Almo.   Especially to minimize any legal risk from the government from fraudulent product origination.   The second key takeaway is to educate yourself and review all terms and conditions when working with state and local governments on their bid requirements.  If they are utilizing federal grant monies, you could be tied to supply TAA compliance products.

If you aren’t sure about any products, please ask for the country of origin to be supplied to you.

I hope you’ve walked away with just a little bit more knowledge about TAA-compliance.

Bottom line, please reach out to your Exertis Almo Rep or myself for assistance with any of our solutions!   We are here to provide you will full solutions to meet all your needs inclusive of TAA-compliance products.

Angie Greene
About the Author

Angie Greene | DSCE

Business Development Manager

Supported Manufacturers: ScreenBeam and Panasonic

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