This year's show is the platform for the launch of ArKaos' new network protocol, Kling-Net, a protocol designed specifically to allow the distribution of real-time video data to remote display devices, like LEDs or LED panels, over Ethernet.
Kling-Net can transform the simplest of LED devices into an intelligent Kling-Net device that can talk to, and be controlled by, a Media Server. Auto configuration of devices upon start up dispenses with the need for complicated set up procedures. The Media Server can then read and change parameters from the device. This makes the whole process extremely fast and easy and minimises the potential for mistakes, says the company.
Costs are reduced because the devices do not need switches or a physical configuration panel. Everything is configured by implementing the software SDK made available by Arkaos to the partners creating Kling-Net devices. And because the Media Server does all the work, video will still run at a smooth 60 FPS.
"Many basic and first time users are afraid of using LED lighting because of the complexity of networking and control issues," says ArKaos CEO, Marco Hinic. "Traditionally, using and networking LED lighting has required a high level of technical knowledge which has been a deterent for many. We wanted to remove all this complexity and replace it with a simple to use protocol which automatically takes care of the magic numbers for the user.
"Kling-Net brings LED lighting within reach of even small clubs and venues by making it less technical and less expensive. It opens the market to new lighting designers who have previously been deterred by the technical complexity and expense of LED lighting systems. Kling-Net removes these barriers and makes LED lighting available, easy and fun."
Kling-Net can be embedded in any manufacturer's product under licence from ArKaos. The first company to recognise its potential is Highlite International BV of the Netherlands which has incorporated Kling-Net into two new, dedicated products: Pixel Strip P25 and Pixel Batten P25.
Also to be launched at PLASA, Pixel Strip P25 is a 1m x 3cm LED strip of 40 pixels and Pixel Batten P25, a 1m x 15cm batten of 160 pixels. The new protocol means these fixtures can be connected, via a standard RJ45 cable, directly to a laptop running MediaMaster Express.
"We are very excited by Kling-Net," says Highlite Purchase Manager, Peter Buckx. "It is the first protocol for LED control that really is 'plug and play'. There is no need for expensive converters or specialist knowledge. You simply plug and play directly from the computer without any set up. We can see a really bright future for Kling-Net."
(Jim Evans)
