Eliminate hidden costs of inefficient collaboration

Projector costs don't end after the unit is delivered. There is an ongoing cost of ownership that must be considered before any projector purchase. As a projector is only part of a total solution, its impact on other items (sources: DVD, VCR, PC; switchers; videoconferencing systems) will also have impact on the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of the complete system.

One of the major costs is often unseen and uncalculated indirect costs caused by lack of efficiency in a visualization system. Many senior staff members and highly skilled experts lose precious time in dealing with connectivity and support issues.

Compared to traditional AV projection systems, Barco's Network Centric Visualization projectors reduce capital expenditure with:

• Lower hardware costs
• Reduced cabling expenses
• Fewer peripherals
• And less expensive switching equipment

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Easy integration

As Barco’s network centric visualization solution is IP driven, it can easily be integrated into any existing IT network. SNMP compatible Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) allows the IT department to use their current software package to monitor all IP devices, including the network centric visualization devices (iCon, iQ PRO, Solaris PRO) at various locations. This instant integration saves time in installing and using multiple software packages.

Open ActiveX support

Communicating over a LAN to the networked visualization device has been made easy by the ActiveX support. This open toolkit allows functions of the projector to be integrated with any system and to define extra userinterfaces for the customized applications.

Reduced support and maintenance cost

Central remote management and monitoring

With Barco’s network centric visualization solution, all visualisation sites can be remotely managed and monitored from a central location. This considerably reduces the costs for training and for dedicated IT and AV specialists for first line assistance.

Lower maintenance costs

Power and replacement lamp costs are lower since a projector detected as on and not in use can be turned off remotely. User support costs less since most user questions can be addressed over the network without dispatching an AV tech to the projector site.

Efficient system and asset management

The network centric projector becomes just another device managed on and via the network:

• The network manager can use the network to monitor projector use and performance.
• Dedicated software enables the support staff to setup, manage, and monitor many projectors from a central point.
• Periodically or on-demand, the software collects data on projector power on/off conditions, lamp life, display settings, and current use status.
• Central management also allows for a more transparent inventory and depreciation.