Finepoint Modernises British Embassy Facility In Tokyo

Finepoint Broadcast has modernised the main presentation suite at the British Embassy in Tokyo with new conference and meeting room technology.

"This was a fast-track project starting with the stripping out of old cabling and removal of old equipment under the usual environmental procedures and regulations," said Finepoint Broadcast's professional AV sales manager Paul MacKenzie.

The work involved upgrading the main projector to a latest-generation 7,000 lumen three-LCD Epson EB-G7900U with WUXGA resolution and a 130 inch 16:10 projection screen as well as updating the signal distribution infrastructure with new AV matrix, switcher and control system.

Mr MacKenzie said: "We enhanced the existing Polycom video conferencing system as many organisations rely on communicating with the embassy over video and use modern collaboration platforms to share data and documents. A lot of events are recorded for future publication and streaming. We supplied a Panasonic DMR-BRS510 Blu-ray optical disk recorder to play existing audio-visual content and record sessions locally. High quality audio was imperative.
 
"As a Zoom partner we recommended the use of the Zoom video conference platform for difficult external and ad hoc connectivity requirements, integrated with the Polycom system. The combination delivers maximum return on the investments already made in global video technology infrastructure. We used Zoom conferencing to manage the project remotely, communicating with the onsite teams, contractors and local client representatives to ensure completion on time and within budget."

"The conference facility required the capability to support many more sources at higher resolutions as visitors and speakers wanted to use their own devices and laptops. Additional switching and distribution was needed along with full programming of the new Crestron control system. As always in such projects, we enhanced the user graphical interface on the colour touch panel controls to make operating the room easier. We also provided wireless control connectivity for authorised Android and smartphone devices. The system was previously operated via a hardware technical panel which we replaced with an Apple iPad configured with the Crestron app to full manage all devices connected on the AV network. This approach provides much more control flexibility including remote operation which is useful for private or secure meetings. The control operator can preview the connectivity configuration, manage the video conferencing system and connect participants' video and audio streams.

"Being the sole UK IDK distributor for IP Ninja and 4K digital multi-format switchers, we took advantage of our technical skills in signal management and distribution engineering by fully updating and future proofing the embassy with infrastructure to support 4K resolution. We are always delighted to work on overseas projects, offering our professional services and expertise where and when customers need it. We provide top quality equipment and services throughout the installation process and after completion."

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