The Netherlands/Slovakia - The global launch of the SRS Lighting VLAN-toolbox has been announced. This product is the result of a collaboration between Podiumtechniek B.V., a leading player in the entertainment industry, and SRS Group, a globally respected name in lighting, rigging, and power distribution technology. Together, they have developed a solution that will ‘significantly simplify the lives of AV technicians worldwide’.
The idea for the SRS Lighting VLAN-toolbox was first introduced by Paul van Schaik, co-owner of Podiumtechniek B.V. During the initial presentation of the prototype at CUE 2024 in Rotterdam, it quickly became apparent that there was a high demand for a simple yet powerful tool for network management specifically designed for AV professionals.
"After the presentation, we immediately saw the potential," says Paul van Schaik. "The feedback from technicians was overwhelmingly positive. They were excited about the simplicity and functionality of the toolbox." Following this positive reception, Podiumtechniek and SRS Group decided to join forces. “It was a good idea that deserved to see the world, so we developed it further and turned this idea into a product that can be mass-produced to help AV professionals all over the world,” says the SRS Group CEO, Samuel Sloboda.
The SRS Lighting VLAN-toolbox is a solution for managing AV networks during events and in theatres. The device provides users with an easy way to segment networks, optimize data speeds, and separate different data streams (such as audio, video, and lighting control). This results in a clear network structure and reliable performance, even in the most demanding environments.
The VLAN-toolbox is available in two models: SRS Lighting VLAN-toolbox 24-4, with 24 etherCON ports and four fibre optic ports, and the compact SRS Lighting VLAN-toolbox 8-2, designed for smaller setups. Both models support trunking, link aggregation, and are equipped with built-in monitoring features such as PoE consumption and cable diagnostics, making network management faster and more efficient. All of this is achievable without in-depth knowledge of IT or network technology. Another advantage of the VLAN-toolbox is a wide variety of fibre optical connectors: LC-Duplex, Q-ODC, and opticalCON.
For technicians who often face complex networks during large events, this product offers a user-friendly solution to maintain control over their data streams. The VLAN-toolbox is available worldwide through specialised dealers, including Podiumtechniek B.V. in the Benelux region. For more information about the dealers, please refer to the “WHERE TO BUY“ section at the SRS Group website: https://www.srs-group.com/en/lighting.
“We are excited to bring a product to market that directly meets the needs of AV professionals,” says Paul van Schaik. "This tool makes life significantly easier for technicians, whether they are working in a small theatre or at a large-scale event."
Podiumtechniek and SRS Lighting will continue to focus on further innovations and product improvements in the coming years to support their customers in building reliable and scalable networks.
