NSCA

NSCA Conference June 1620
NSCA Expo June 1820 on the InfoComm Show Floor

Friday, June 20, 2008

Course Descriptions

8 a.m.10 a.m.

Aspect Ratios: Why Are There So Many?

Course Number:
NS142
Course Level:
Intermediate
Karl Rosenberg, CTS, Extron Electronics

The 4:3 ratio for standard television has beenin use since television's origins and many computer monitors use the same aspect ratio…but in today's AV world Aspect Ratios have gone off the chart. 1.33:1…2.35:1…16x9…15x19…SCOPE…FLAT…What does this all mean? In this seminar you will learn how to calculate Aspect Ratios and be prepared for the Aspect Ratios fo the Future. Hollywood created widescreen aspect ratios to immerse the viewer in a more realistic experience. Today the Computer and Laptop industry have also made Widescreen their "standard". This class will educate you on all the traditional aspect ratios as well as the new ones that are being integrated into A/V systems today. There will be demonstrations on how to integrate signal processors to compliment your video projectors native resolution compensating for many aspect ratio issues. Learn what test equipment you should have in your kit. Prerequisites: 2 or more years in the A/V industry; Intermediate understanding of video hierarchy and signal attributes.

Learning Unit Value: 2

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
8 a.m.10 a.m.

Digital Video in A/V Systems Today and Tomorrow

Course Number:
JS3B
Course Level:
Basic
Roy Hermanson, Jr., CTS-I, CTS-D, Extron Electronics

'The Buzzword is Digital—Just about every systems integration project today has SDI, HD-SDI, DVI, HDMI or DisplayPort Digital Video Signals in the signal path. Since 1985 we’ve had Digital Video but only recently have we had to make it work in AV Systems. This class will examine the architecture and application of these Digital Video Signals and how we can design and build successful systems. We’ll look at what it will take and apply this knowledge to make Analog and Digital Signals coexist in AV Systems – Today and Tomorrow. Three working systems will be setup in the class to see if what we design really does deliver the solutions for our customer.

Learning Unit Value: 2

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
8 a.m.10 a.m.

Eight Steps to Increased Profitability

Course Number:
NS093
Course Level:
Advanced
Mike Bradley, Safeguard Security & Communications

The instructor presents simple, actionable changes every manager can make to increase customer satisfaction and profitability in their organization. This course includes practical examples from successful businesses about grassroots marketing, proposal and presentation, product selection, designing efficiently, installation labor, office management and service. Expect to come away with new ideas you can use right away to start making your company more profitable.

Learning Unit Value: 2

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
8 a.m.10 a.m.

How to Compete with Box Sales: Working Within the Change

Course Number:
NS112
Course Level:
Intermediate
Gary Kayye, Kayye Consulting, Inc.

In the beginning, it was “trunk-slammers, then came the “box-houses” and now it’s the “Internet”. Customers have more choices from where to purchase AV Gear than ever before – and box-to-box, there’s no way a systems integrator can truly compete on price.

Margins are at the worse level they have ever been. Price erosion has hit every segment of the AV market and we can’t fight it—try, and you’ll run out of time and resources.

But, re-position (or, in some cases, position) your company away from the box-sales mentality into a true systems integrator and design-build firm and you’ll have a winning combination for true profitability and growth well into the 21st Century. Successful companies in our industry have been doing this for years – selling stuff for more than many of their competitors, but all the while maintaining a market leadership position in share and performance. How? What are they doing that you can learn from?

Come hear from someone who’s been helping companies like these and a host of other ProAV manufacturers and dealers stand out from the pack without discounting and price slashing – in fact, their reputation’s built on customer support, quality, performance and people!

This two hour session will teach you how to start transforming your organization into one that can do this too – no matter what the price is.

Learning Unit Value: 2

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
8 a.m.10 a.m.

Project Risk Management: You Bid it, Now Build it

Course Number:
NS152
Course Level:
Intermediate
Marc Forman, SET, Alarm, Electronics and Communications

While it is true, nothing happens in our industry until a sale is made, in today’s competitive Systems Integration Field, it is more important than ever to have a complete understanding of what your staff committed your organization to by sales persons or designers by bidding, proposing, and winning the project.

As projects get more involved what really are the many forgotten, unknown and or untold events of any project, regardless of its’ size, and how to successfully manage them.

This course will take those responsible for making a project successful thru the phases of today’s construction requirements and expectations of Managing the Risks for Integrated Projects.

Learning Unit Value: 2

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
8 a.m.12 p.m.

AC Power, Grounding and Power Conditioning for Audio and Video Systems

Course Number:
JW2B
Course Level:
Intermediate
Andrew Benton, SurgeX
Jim Brown, The Audio Systems Group, Inc.

Power conditioning, surge protection, and esoteric cables are the modern equivalent of the carnival barker's snake oil. Limited project budgets are squandered on products that not only have little value, but can also cause more problems than they solve. On the other hand, very simple, long established, and well understood design techniques are far more effective, often with no additional cost.

Power systems require an "earth" connection for lightning safety, an" earthed" neutral, and a bond between neutral and all exposed equipment "that may become energized." This bonding protects personnel from electrical shock and is a critical element of fire safety. In our systems, audio and video equipment installed at widely separated locations is interconnected, often using unbalanced interfaces that make the wiring sensitive to noise voltages on the safety ground. Power systems must be designed to minimize these voltages, and audio/video equipment and systems must be designed and installed to work properly with proper grounding in place.

The basic mechanisms by which noise invades audio/video systems are identified, and effective solutions are described. Surge suppression and power conditioning concepts are presented. Instructors present the fundamental science in simple, easy to understand language, and without "hiding behind math and big words."

Learning objectives:

  • At the end of this class, participants should be able to:
  • Understand how proper grounding provides safety for personnel and property
  • Understand how hum, buzz, and other noise is coupled into audio/video systems
  • Understand power quality issues and specify solid, cost effective solutions
  • Design audio/video installations that are safe, conform to building codes, and provide reliable, noise-free operation

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$249
Non-Member Price:
$325
On-Site Price:
$369
8 a.m.12 p.m.

Audio Systems: Concepts, Tips, Techniques, and Troubleshooting - Class Closed

Course Number:
NW062
Course Level:
Intermediate
David Brown, Quantun Sales and Technology, Inc.

'Proper set-up and calibration of a sound system during the design and commissioning phases of the project or event can help prevent many of the common problems that can and do occur in the electronic signal chain and with the loudspeakers in any sound system. The basic concepts needed to avoid some of these problems will be reviewed as will some of the ways and means needed to be able to diagnose and even solve some of these problems. Subjects will include an introduction to terminology, gain structure (analysis, calibration and setting), interconnect (the good, bad and ugly), grounding, human perception, system check-list, operator training and system final acceptance as well as Murphy's role in all this. Examples of the simple mathematical equations used in sound system design will be reviewed as well as demonstrations of some of the equipment and problems that one can encounter with a sound system.

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$249
Non-Member Price:
$325
On-Site Price:
$369
8 a.m.12 p.m.

Ethernet and IP: The Basics of Today's Most Popular Networking Technology

Course Number:
NW032
Course Level:
Intermediate
Ernest Schirmer, Acentech, Inc.

The terms Ethernet and IP (Internet Protocol) are everywhere, but what exactly are they and how do they work? This four-hour professional development course will present an overview of analog and digital data transmission techniques, provide an understanding of how they are used and compare Ethernet to other data transmission techniques. The program will cover the basics of networking architecture, the ISO network reference model, Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN), routing and security.

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$249
Non-Member Price:
$325
On-Site Price:
$369
8 a.m.12 p.m.

Impulse Response Measurements

Course Number:
NW232
Course Level:
Intermediate
Thomas Mullins, BRC Acoustics

This course will explore the history, development, and application of impulse response measurements in a format that combines interactive lecture with live measurements. After a discussion of impulse response measurements, we will make impulse response measurements and discuss their interpretation.

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$249
Non-Member Price:
$325
On-Site Price:
$369
8 a.m.12 p.m.

Operation Best Practices for Project Managers

Course Number:
NW123
Course Level:
Advanced
Ben Wilson, Safeguard Security and Communication

What makes your operations department run smooth...GPS on vehicles, paper flow, trained techs, scheduling tools? How do you handle quality control, tracking of tools, gas costs and project manager accountability? How do you use technology for field staff, inventory control and safety programs? Learn how to streamline your operations and squeeze more out of your bottom line. Attend this class if you would like to know the answers to these questions and more.

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$249
Non-Member Price:
$325
On-Site Price:
$369
8 a.m.12 p.m.

Understanding Line Arrays: Separating Reality from Marketing Hype, Proper Application and Tuning

Course Number:
NL084
Course Level:
Advanced
John Murray, ProSonic Solutions

Attendees will be presented the following primary topics:

  • A lecture on the mathematic fundamentals behind how line arrays theoretically work
  • A technical discussion on the high-frequency isophasic aperture found in all non-steerable line-array products
  • A discussion on the compromises made in the application of fundamental line-array theory to produce practical line-array products
  • Line Arrays Fit Every Application!: Marketing myths vs. reality, technical facts, and the proper application of line-array products
  • A live presentation demonstrating the unique way in which line arrays must be equalized to achieve the smoothest average frequency response over their coverage area
  • A live presentation demonstrating the relatively new technology used to beam-steer today's steerable line-array products, including multiple beam generation from one line array to produce "beam shaping"

Finally, each attendee will receive a CD with EASE Focus, a free CAD-based line-array prediction software application. Knowledge Level/Experience: The attendee should have at least three years of professional experience equalizing sound systems with measurement systems. Experience using SIA SMAART, SIM, or TEF, not just a two-dimensional RTA or tuning by ear, is a plus. They should also be familiar with the concept of relative phase, the dimensions of audio wavelengths, polar patterns and beam width plots. Some familiarity with CAD-based line-array prediction software will also be helpful.

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$369
Non-Member Price:
$480
On-Site Price:
$565
10:30 a.m.12 p.m.

Embracing the IT Industry

Course Number:
JS4B
Course Level:
Basic
Matt Barmash, Cloud Systems

As Audio Visual professionals interact more frequently with IT departments, the AV integrator will be asked to comply with existing IT services and standards. Fortunately, much of the infrastructure that the AV industry needs already exists within IT departments, offering a rich integration environment. With this infrastructure in place, AV installers have the opportunity to offer a new set of value added services to the IT department.

In the first section of the class we will define ways to integrate with IT infrastructures while offering AV expertise. Topics will range from leveraging the existing network backbone to complying with security requirements and defined service level agreements. In the second half, we will investigate specific IT/AV scenarios. This section will be an interactive session, offering the opportunity to bring up specific issues that have been encountered in the field. This part of the seminar will be most effective if participants come with scenarios for discussion.

Learning Unit Value: 1.5

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
12:30 p.m.2 p.m.

Developing An In-House Training Program: Train Your Techs While They Work!

Course Number:
NS052
Course Level:
Intermediate
Chuck Walthall, Walthall & Associates

This course will focus on the practical benefits and procedures of developing an in-house training program to increase the fundamental knowledge of field technicians. Various programs, procedures, incentives and tasks will be reviewed in an effort to compile a training program that functions in real time and meets the academic goal of systematic learning.

Learning Unit Value: 1.5

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
12:30 p.m.2 p.m.

Perfecting Your Image Path

Course Number:
JS8B
Course Level:
Basic
Mike Grifitt, CTS, Extron Electronics

'When putting together video systems a lot of thought goes into the proper selection of the various AV components. However, in many cases mistakes are made when it comes to getting the correct signal to the display device. In this seminar we will take a look at an entire system as it relates to the pixel. Using O-scopes we will analyze what is required for a display device to properly display the correct image every time.

You will also understand the importance of using an interface, selection of cabling, and twisted pair products. At the end of this seminar you have gained knowledge that will permit you to perform the same testing and demonstrations within your own organization. Prerequisite: 2 or more years in the AV industry.

Learning Unit Value: 1.5

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
12:30 p.m.2 p.m.

Projection Screen Applications

Course Number:
JS5B
Course Level:
Basic
Blake Brubaker, CTS, Da-Lite Screen Company

Projection screens are a misunderstood and confusing part of a projection system. If you have ever questioned which model, fabric and screen gain to use for a projection application, this is a course for you. Covered topics include: screen sizing, aspect ratio, fabric selection, frames and rear vs. front projection.

Learning Unit Value: 1.5

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
12:30 p.m.2 p.m.

Sales Considerations for the Higher Education Market - Class Closed

Course Number:
NS072
Course Level:
Intermediate
Michael D. Frank, Crestron Electronics, Inc.

This course examines the concept of the psychology of presenting; leading into the positive effects that control systems have on creating opportunities for successful presentations in college and university classrooms. Many aspects of control systems positively contribute to presentations, budgets of maintaining presentation environments and security of presentation environments. Those aspects will be examined as well as common “issues” that face those supporting classroom technologies and how control systems can help to alleviate them. This course will then address opportunities for retrofitting presentation environments without control systems and environments with older control systems.

Learning Unit Value: 1.5

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
12:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

Acoustic Absorbers and Diffusers: Design, Measurement, Modeling and Application

Course Number:
NW043
Course Level:
Advanced
Dr. Peter D'Antonio, RPG Diffusor Systems, Inc

Over the past 20-30 years, significant research on methods to design, optimize, predict, measure, and quantify diffusing surfaces has resulted in a growing body of scientific knowledge and understanding. We will review the current measurement standards for the scattering coefficient, and the diffusion coefficient. The scattering coefficient is used in room modeling programs, along with the random incidence coefficient, and the diffusion coefficient is used to evaluate the quality of a diffusing surface. We will describe the technology behind the types of sound diffusors available to design professionals and also how, when, where and why these surfaces, along with reflecting surfaces, are best used in a wide variety of applications, including worship spaces, conference rooms, lecture halls and auditorium, etc. Computer models will be used to illustrate the use of the absorptive and diffusive coefficients, as well as to indicate placement and performance. Following the passive acoustics section, a brief review of active acoustics (i.e. electronic architecture) will be given along with a description of the current state of the art, utilizing the concept of an “acoustic server”.

The course is intended as a continuing education seminar to inform sound contractors of the measurement standards for absorptive and diffusive surfaces, to explain how to use these coefficients in computer models, to introduce them to new absorptive and diffusive technology and to describe how to apply this growing range of sound absorbers and diffusors in a wide range of applications.

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$249
Non-Member Price:
$325
On-Site Price:
$369
12:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

Acoustics in Architecture

Course Number:
NW012
Course Level:
Intermediate
Steve Thorburn, PE, CTS-D, CTS-I, Thorburn Associates

Gain a greater understanding of the issues that should be addressed when developing the acoustical design of rooms like a large boardroom or a 300-seat auditorium/lecture room. All aspects of room acoustics will be discussed and reviewed including reverberation criteria, the even distribution of low frequency room modes, wall constructions to control noise, absorption, echo control, diffusion and more. A detailed workbook will be provided to all attendees.

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$249
Non-Member Price:
$325
On-Site Price:
$369
12:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

Broadband Basic

Course Number:
NL112
Course Level:
Intermediate
Steve Hegge, Blonder Tongue Labs

Learn the basics of broadband from our industry's foremost expert on networks and their configuration. Numerous topics will be covered, including:

  • Headend Theory
  • Distribution Network Theory
  • Overview of all System / Network Elements
  • Understanding Specifications
  • Device Contributions to Overall System Performance.

Students will receive a full set of course materials that will cover additional information including:

  • RF Basics: dB, dBmV, Attenuation, Gain, and Slope Program Sources
  • Headend Equipment
  • Alignment Basics
  • Sample Headend Drawings
  • Sample Distribution Drawings
  • Distribution and Amplifiers

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$369
Non-Member Price:
$480
On-Site Price:
$585
12:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

Developing Interfaces that Work! (User Interface Design) - Class Closed

Course Number:
NW152
Course Level:
Intermediate
Greg Maderic, Control Interaction

This hands-on workshop will examine and apply the science of Human Factors and the standards of graphic design to the AV control interface. Combining the basics of Gestalt psychology, the psychology of perception, color theory, and graphic design standards with real world situations and problems, attendees will be able to develop real world solutions for their clients. The carefully considered interface designs that are the result of this workshop will be able to satisfy the end user's real, functional, and esteem needs, resulting in customer satisfaction.

Three learning objectives that will be accomplished by this program.

At the end of this program, the attendee will understand how to:

  • Apply Human Factors and long standing graphic design rules to the control system interface design.
  • Establish color palettes for use of presenting design options to clients based on branding, personality or décor to better satisfy the end user comfort level and esteem needs.
  • Understand the Gestalt rules of visual perception and apply these rules to interface designs creating structure and form that the end user will inherently understand.
  • Define and develop the appropriate control interface based on the user persona, user needs, hardware, and typical system requirements.

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$249
Non-Member Price:
$325
On-Site Price:
$369
12:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

Mass Notification

Course Number:
NW261
Course Level:
Basic
Alan Avidan, Alerting Experts

You have just discovered a bomb has been planted in the Laboratory building on your campus. You have five minutes to alert the 300 employees in the building, as well as everyone in the surrounding area before it detonates. How will you alert the affected areas in time? This is a 100 level course worth 4 core learning units toward NSCA University's Certificate of Completion Program in the College of System Design.

An MNS rapidly disseminates accurate emergency information in real-time to the affected public before, during and after an emergency or event. Using advanced technology, you are able to send the right message to the right people at the right time. An MNS is also interoperable with other systems, and is operable even during power outages. Learn how an MNS enables you to save lives, minimize casualties and reduce chaos.

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$249
Non-Member Price:
$325
On-Site Price:
$369
12:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

The Right Projector Every Time - Class Closed

Course Number:
NW112
Course Level:
Intermediate
Jason K. Pittman, CTS, Acoustical Design Group, Inc.

As the name suggests, this course will give the student the design tools to choose the right projector for any application or “The Projector Every Time”. A myriad of video display options are available for today’s systems designer; LCD, DLP, plasma, front and rear projection.

This class will disseminate various options to allow the student to make informed decisions. The student will become familiar with rule-of-thumb design criteria used for various project types. Topics covered will include screen sizing, types of projectors and screens to use, projector selection (resolution, brightness and technology), and architectural integration (location, ambient light, control and infrastructure).

Practical exercises will provide the student with direct experience implementing the skills for selecting the right projector every time.

Learning Unit Value: 4

Member Price:
$249
Non-Member Price:
$325
On-Site Price:
$369
2:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

Future Television and Other Media Concerns for Small and Medium-sized Churches

Course Number:
NS192
Course Level:
Intermediate
Claiborne Sharp Jr., Claiborne Sharp Professional Audio Inc.

This course will cover design converns for small and medium size churches (less than 3,000 members). Participants will learn how to address current needs, such as a new audio system, that will allow for future media additions. Simple television production with local stations, CCTV, and internet will be covered. The course will also address simple television studios, remote cameras, recorders, and switchers. There will be a discussion of separate audio systems for both reinforcement and television. Participants will also hear about special TV audio feeds for weddings and other rooms. There will be a discussion on how churches are using the internet for both audio and video to reach their members. Finally, participants will learn about future HDTV and how to set up a simple HDTV video camera feed.

Learning Unit Value: 2

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
2:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

Microphones for Performance and Recording

Course Number:
NS222
Course Level:
Basic
Luis Guerra, Shure Incorporated

Entry-level course for anyone working with microphones in live sound or recording environments.

Objectives

  • Understand the function and characteristics of microphones for performance and recording
  • Take away a working knowledge of microphone selection
  • Take away a working knowledge of common microphone placement techniques
  • Take away basic trouble shooting and optimization techniques

Learning Unit Value: 2

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
2:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

Service Maintenance Agreements: How to Increase Your Bottom Line

Course Number:
JS6B
Course Level:
Intermediate
Barry Halligan, Technical Innovation

Dwindling equipment margins have AV integrators looking at other revenue sources to increase their bottom lines. Service/support is one area that has been overlooked as a profit center until recently.

In this two hour seminar, learn how to market, sell and execute a profitable service and support business through contracts. Topics include tips for selling service, sample service packages, service pricing, and tracking costs.

Learning Unit Value: 2

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
2:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

Service Quality for AV Professionals—Discover, Determine, and Deploy a Practical Approach to Improving Your Quality of Service

Course Number:
NS372
Course Level:
Intermediate
John Crawford, Auburn Audio
Alleah Crawford, Auburn Audio

Welcome to the service economy! As it stands, today’s consumers are concerned with the experience, the feelings associated with a company or its products. In other words, service is the name of the game.

This course is designed to introduce participants to basic principles of service quality while creating an understanding of the importance service quality plays through group discussion/participation and an examination of current and relevant research. Case studies are presented; best practices are examined and discussed; and practical implementations tailored to the Audio Visual industry are presented.

Learning Unit Value: 2

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199
2:30 p.m.4:30 p.m.

Top 10 Wireless Mic Problems

Course Number:
NS333
Course Level:
Advanced
Tim Vear, Shure Inc.

Using a "Top 10" format this class will present practical techniques to maximize the performance of wireless microphones for installed sound systems. Understand the audio and radio principles that determine wireless microphone behavior. Learn to choose the right wireless microphone and use it the right way in specific applications. Consider the impact of new technologies such as DTV in an increasingly wireless world.

"How do I coordinate multiple wireless systems?"

"How do I optimize my antenna performance?"

"Do I need to worry about DTV interference?"

"Can I use rechargeable batteries in my wireless?"

Be able to answer these questions and many others with this comprehensive seminar on successful wireless system operation.This course is aimed at sound system installers and operators who wish to improve their wireless microphone selection and application skills beyond the basic level.

Participants should have a working knowledge of wireless microphones in contracting applications.

Learning Unit Value: 2

Member Price:
$129
Non-Member Price:
$169
On-Site Price:
$199

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