More about native compatibility with Microsoft Surface Hub from Crestron:
Through close integration with Microsoft, Crestron technology natively integrates with Surface Hub. The new solution combines the premier large format Windows touch appliance with the leading global solution in control, automation, and video distribution.
Pairing a Crestron DigitalMedia™ Presentation System (DMPS), TSW touch screen, TSS scheduling touch screen, and a set of USB Extenders with Surface Hub adds the flexibility of control right from the conference table and the ability to:
• Display any content on the Surface Hub from any device anywhere in the room or enterprise
• Pass touch functionality from the Surface Hub to connected devices
• Present HD and Ultra High Definition 4K video
• Launch Windows 10 apps on the Surface Hub
• Adjust environmental settings including shades, lights, and temperature using Crestron’s App on the Surface Hub
• Book and schedule meetings from the touch screen just outside the room
The joint solution also makes complete room and environmental control possible, right from the Surface Hub. Crestron gives you control of the room, and enables enterprise-wide deployment and network management using Crestron Fusion® software.
It’s not the first time, by any means, that Crestron and Microsoft have collaborated. “Microsoft and Crestron have been strategic partners for many, many years,” Sarrasin says.
“Crestron uses Skype for Business in their global offices and Microsoft utilizes Crestron technology throughout their global offices. We are both invested in each other and look forward to a successful launch of the Crestron Surface Hub bundles.”
Crestron, in fact, worked with Microsoft on 4K-certifying the 84-inch Microsoft Surface Hub through Crestron 4K Certification program.
The certification ensures, according to Crestron, that the 4K capable 84-inch display:
- Delivers true 10 Gbit/s data rates to get the signal to its destination
- Interfaces with DigitalMedia to handle cable lengths found in integrated AV systems
- Works with other 4K products in a Crestron DigitalMedia system
Collaborating with Microsoft can potentially help to educate end user clients’ all-important IT decision makers about AV integration.
“We believe that our native compatibility with the Microsoft Surface Hub will grow mindshare in the IT space for Crestron and mindshare in the AV industry for Microsoft,” Sarrasin says.
More on Crestron’s 4K Certification
Using Crestron Fusion enterprise management software with Microsoft Surface Hub provides IT managers with ability to centrally monitor, manage and control products in every room across their organization.
“Now that AV is digital, and more often going on the network, IT managers are taking responsibility for those systems,” Sarrasin says. “So this convergence of AV and IT is upon us and the native integration between Crestron products including DigitalMedia, the DMPS, AirMedia and the Surface Hub exemplify the next wave of integration technology.
More from Crestron:
Robust reporting provides room and device usage information so managers can make data driven decisions about scheduling, purchasing, and space allocation. Also, IT can monitor system performance, get instant alerts when issues arise, and resolve problems proactively – so meetings aren’t delayed or interrupted.
“We’re very pleased to work with Crestron to complete a wider range of collaboration solutions with Surface Hub,” said Hayete Gallot, Senior Director, Microsoft Surface Hub.
“With Crestron’s expertise in providing great conference room solutions across the world, combined with the powerful group collaboration and productivity features of Surface Hub, we look forward to better serving our customers and creating compelling customer experiences together.”
Crestron expects Microsoft to make an impact with InfoComm 2015 attendees and not just because of the compatibility with their products.
“When you see what Microsoft is introducing at the show, there will be no question that they are committed to the integration industry,” Sarrasin says.
“The fact that they have selected Crestron, the market leader in innovating technology that’s conducive to enterprise collaboration and communication, demonstrates their commitment to the AV industry.”
