Black Box Unveils New Fiber-to-Desktop Suite for High-Security Environments

Company’s breadth of fiber-based products and solutions now available to protect physical or data network threats for information-sensitive workplaces

PITTSBURGH – November 30, 2016 – Black Box, a world leading technology solutions provider of high-performance KVM, professional A/V signal distribution and extension and switching solutions, today unveiled its comprehensive fiber-to-the-desktop suite. From pre-terminated fiber to media converters, Black Box’s full solution set provides every element needed to ensure data transmission, physical networking and mobile devices are secure and optimized.

Black Box’s fiber-to-the-desktop suite is the perfect solution for any fiber network. It meets the complex needs of government entities along with enterprise, retail, financial services and other data-sensitive markets. In addition to unmatched network and physical security, this comprehensive solution brings all the benefits that fiber-based networks can deliver. This includes enhanced speed, reach, reliability, scalability, environmental sensitivity, and capital and operating cost savings, compared to traditional CATx copper networks.

“Further proving fiber’s role in the future of network security, the Pentagon recently revamped the United Facilities Criteria to declare fiber-based optical LAN as a central element for the U.S. military’s infrastructure,” said Black Box’s Tom Strade, vice president of technology & innovation. “This sets the stage for any market that values network security. With our deep industry expertise and comprehensive network security solutions, it is clear why organizations are turning to Black Box for its fiber-to-the-desktop suite of products.”

Core to Black Box’s fiber-to-the desktop solution is its media converter product line. Featuring a 1.8-inch-by-2.3-inch form factor, the small appliance can be mounted out of the way or under a desk. It works with any desktop PC or laptop and can be powered through a computer’s USB port, saving desk space and improving reliability. With Power over Ethernet (POE) and easy plug-and-play capabilities, these media converters simplify installation and eliminate the need for AC power circuits. Black Box’s media converters also replace network interface cards (NICs) and associated computer OS upgrade and driver issues, so compatibility between the fiber network and the computer will never be an issue.

Beyond media converters, Black Box’s fiber-to-the-desktop suite includes a breadth of solutions that can be tailored to the specific needs of any organization. With all these products, both integration and on-going client needs are easily met through engineering and design support and 24/7 customer assistance.

  • Pre-terminated multi-fiber cable: This top-quality fiber cable is built to the exact specs an organization needs. The product is fully tested and shipped ready for installation.
  • NIC options: For desktop computers with an available PCI card, Black Box provides options to connect fiber cabling directly to a PC, giving the computer lockdown protection.
  • LockPORT™ Cables: These CATx copper and fiber patch cables feature the patented LockPORT™ boot and optional locking pins. They can be used to secure network connections, preventing accidental disconnects and tampering.
  • LockPORT™ Port Locks: These small RJ-45 and LC plugs snap easily into open, unused ports and prevent unauthorized network access. They can only be removed with a special tool.
  • Locking IT Storage Cabinets: These secure IT network equipment enclosures come in all sizes. This ranges from smaller wall-mounted cabinets to large 84-inch high cabinets to fit any environment, such as the data center, office or industrial organizations.
  • Standard Charging Carts: Durable, secure and cost-effective charging and storage carts with one-size-fits-all fixed shelving deliver a protected power-up option for laptops not in use.
  • High-performance KVM: KVM, HD video, and peripherals matrix switching give users access to a variety of target devices (CPUs, digital signage or servers). It also ensures the ability to monitor the workflow and enable flexible control of visual and peripheral elements.

For more information on Black Box’s fiber-to-desktop solutions, visit here.

About Black Box

Black Box is a world leading technology solutions provider specializing in complete high-performance KVM, professional A/V signal distribution and extension and switching solutions for mission-critical applications. Black Box is dedicated to delivering superior project engineering, technical support, and 24/7 customer service you can rely on for your most critical operations. Every day, our customers trust us to design, integrate, and maintain reliable control room solutions for broadcasting, post-production, stadiums & arenas, medical, air traffic control, oil & gas, government & military, and utility industries. Leave the tech to us and our comprehensive technology solutions will deliver secure connections, fast-response times, real-time collaboration and more.

Pursuit of Live Sports Streaming Rights Gathering Pace?

News that Amazon is in talks for live game rights with leagues including NBA, MLB, NFL and MLS for its Prime video service is another sign that traditional pay-TV’s most prized possession is coming under serious threat.

Interestingly, it’s not just premium sport that Amazon is hunting. The e-commerce giant is said to also be targeting tier-2 sports, such as Surfing and Lacrosse, maybe as a primer for the bigger live sports events, or to get a foot into into niche markets where you wouldn’t necessarily get the viewers or subscribers over traditional broadcast TV.

Twitter’s own ambitions for live sports with Thursday night NFL received mixed reactions on its debut – some saying the delay in the live Twitter feed was spoiling their enjoyment of the game, while others hailed it a roaring success, with messages of “pretty freaking awesome” and “The future is here” echoing through the social media expanse. With sports being the last bastion of pay-TV operator content, the pursuit of live sports streaming rights by the likes of Amazon, Twitter and Facebook, is one to surely keep an eye on.

Just how far pay-TV companies will go to resist this onslaught or adapt to the changing media environment remains to be seen. Watch this space!

Are you planning on live streaming your favorite sport on Twitter on another online platform? Share your thoughts with us.

Deutsche Telekom International Carrier Sales & Solutions (ICSS) and DIMOCO Messaging enter A2P SMS Partnership

Deutsche Telekom ICSS http://www.telekom-icss.com and DIMOCO Messaging http://www.dimoco.eu today announced their partnership in the Application-to-Person (A2P) SMS business. With a contractual framework affording direct connection to Deutsche Telekom’s network, DIMOCO Messaging clients can now quickly, directly and reliably reach 156 million mobile consumers via A2P messaging in 50 countries across the globe.

 DIMOCO Messaging powers communications between companies and consumers through their preferred SMS channel. Leveraging direct connectivity to Deutsche Telekom ICSS, DIMOCO Messaging’s A2P solutions play a significant role in bringing simplification and efficiency to consumer communications. Marketing campaigns, user authentication as well as alerts and reminders are just a few examples of what is possible in the A2P market.

This deal comes at a time when the A2P market has become increasingly central to the SMS landscape. A2P’s percentage of overall worldwide SMS traffic has skyrocketed from 11.7 percent in 2010 to 22.4 percent in 2015 and opened new business possibilities. Not ending there, the number of A2P messages is expected to reach 1.76 trillion annually by 2018, according to Portio Research. In addition, the value of the global A2P messaging market is projected to increase from $55 billion in 2015 to $60 billion by 2020, as Juniper Research reports.

“DIMOCO Messaging continues to strengthen its position on the international A2P mobile messaging market”, says Mathias Höllerl, DIMOCO Messaging Managing Director. “We see an increasing demand for communication solutions from our clients that require fast and reliable message delivery. The partnership with Deutsche Telekom ICSS reaffirms the high level of trust in our company among major international players and allows us to expand our offering and fulfill clients’ requirements for mission-critical and time-sensitive application-to-person (A2P) messaging using the ICSS global footprint. The excellent experience we’ve had in our co-operation with ICSS has resulted in another partnership with their SMS+ solution.”

“We have had a long-lasting business relationship with DIMOCO as a client for our SMX one-way product, which provides SMS termination to a long list of international networks and also includes P2P as well as A2P traffic”, says Gergely Vadas, Head of Mobile World at Deutsche Telekom ICSS. “With our SMS+ transit solution they now receive a solution that perfectly fits DIMOCO’s requirements for providing best-in-class A2P messaging products to their global customers base. Thanks to SMS+ transit DIMOCO obtains added-value in terms of more destinations, higher quality and more flexibility regarding billing.”

 With SMS+ transit, DIMOCO can now reach the mobile networks of Deutsche Telekom and its partners as well as its affiliates in Europe and outside of Deutsche Telekom’s footprint through partner networks. This is a complete, high-availability solution from one provider that offers fast, reliable, secure and quality termination of messages.”

Black Box Brings Best Practices in Broadcast Virtualization to NAB Show New York

First to integrate KVM switching and virtual machine access, InvisaPC is changing the game to unleash untapped opportunity in the broadcast space

NEW YORK – November 10, 2016 – Black Box, a world leading technology solutions provider specializing in complete high-performance KVM for mission-critical applications, today at the NAB Show® New York unveils how broadcasters can benefit from virtualization with InvisaPC™. From creating agile and scalable workflows, to simplifying operations and reducing CAPEX, Black Box’s InvisaPC is making virtualization a reality in today’s broadcast facilities.

The transition to the virtualized TV station is underway, but hurdles must be overcome. Until then, broadcasters must utilize both physical and virtual resources. Black Box’s InvisaPC is the only solution to make this possible, delivering seamless KVM connectivity through access to physical and virtual machines. As a result, broadcast teams always have access to the technologies they need.

Black Box’s InvisaPC benefits an array of scenarios through virtualization. This includes:

  • The Newsroom: Whether a large team collaborating during peak news hours, or smaller groups managing live broadcasts during slow points, instant access to technologies they need is pivotal. InvisaPC allows teams to simultaneously work across the same array of computers and virtual machines from a single interface and can instantly re-assign the resources for future events. The result is uninterrupted, high-quality broadcasts viewers expect.
  • The Studio: Broadcasters must quickly change set up from one production to the next to keep up in studio environments. InvisaPC makes this possible, eliminating downtime with access to multiple physical and virtual machines from a single monitor, while routing and re-routing AV, multicasting content and adding or removing screens and interfaces.
  • Disaster Recovery: In the event of a disaster, fast transition from the primary site to the disaster recovery site is vital. Access to disaster recovery systems is achieved using InvisaPC connected to virtual machines, either directly through the facility network or remotely across the company WAN.

“Broadcasters can realize the full potential of the virtual TV station here and now,” said John Hickey, senior director of R&D and KVM business at Black Box. “At Black Box, we are providing and constantly upgrading a suite of tools that meet the needs of broadcasters today, and throughout their evolution from SDI to IP workflows. Our customers are armed with the tools and support they need to meet expectations, enhance collaboration and reduce costs to maintain a competitive edge.”

A full whitepaper outlining the possibilities for virtualization, along with the capabilities of InvisaPC, is available here.

For additional information about Black Box at NAB New York visit here.

About Black Box

Black Box is a world leading technology solutions provider specializing in complete high-performance KVM, professional A/V signal distribution and extension and switching solutions for mission-critical applications. Black Box is dedicated to delivering superior project engineering, technical support, and 24/7 customer service you can rely on for your most critical operations. Every day, our customers trust us to design, integrate, and maintain reliable control room solutions for broadcasting, post-production, stadiums & arenas, medical, air traffic control, oil & gas, government & military, and utility industries. Leave the tech to us and our comprehensive technology solutions will deliver secure connections, fast-response times, real-time collaboration and more.

TV News Check: Black Box Bridges Virtual-Machine-KVM Gap

Black Box to Showcase the Latest Innovations and Trends in Live- and Post-Production at NAB Show New York

Company’s 4K, virtualization and high-performance KVM solutions are setting the standard in control, quality and collaboration for the broadcast industry

NEW YORK – November 1, 2016 – Black Box, a world leading technology solutions provider specializing in complete high-performance KVM for mission-critical applications, today announces the company will showcase best practices in 4K, virtualization and its latest high-performance KVM solutions at NAB Show New York, booth #1508, from Nov. 9-10.

The company will feature both live and post-production user experiences that replicate real-world broadcast environments at this year’s show. This includes a fully fitted live-production setting, as well as a post-production suite showcasing Black Box solutions to improve control, quality and collaboration in control room and post-production environments. Key areas of focus include:

Unleashing 4K possibilities with the modular DKM system:

4K is becoming the standard in broadcasting, with more production suites deploying 4K monitors for viewing live production and post production content. With widespread use in studios, Black Box’s DKM system is on the forefront of the 4K trend, enabling flexible and instantaneous matrix switching. The high-availability system also permits problem-free console extension for numerous video formats.

Modular by design, Black Box’s system eliminates the need to replace a whole system when an upgrade is needed to meet 4K bandwidth demands. The Black Box DKM FX 4K60 Interface Card can be easily installed or added to the system. It extends 4K resolutions at 60Hz over a single fiber cable in a point-to point extension or multipoint-to-multipoint matrix configuration for the highest onscreen resolutions in post-production suites.

Delivering virtualization for enhanced OPEX savings and future-proof solutions:

Black Box recognizes the server virtualization trend and is supporting its customers in the transition to virtual machines. InvisaPC closes the gap between traditional KVM and virtual machines to enable the transition from dedicated servers to virtualized environments. With Black Box’s products and expertise, customers can easily make the move to the virtual world, reduce operating expenses and help future proof their deployments.

Live- and post-production Innovation for control, quality and collaboration:

  • Control up to four servers on one screen with one keyboard and mouse– 4Site is a real-time multi-viewer KVM switch that allows users to view and access up to four servers on one screen and configure the screen layout to meet their specific needs. Not only does it simultaneously display video from four USB or PS/2 computers, but it does so with crisp resolutions of up to 1900 x 1200.
  • Zero compression, zero latency with high-performance KVM matrix switch – DCX3000 is a flexible 30-port high-performance KVM matrix switch designed for applications where reliable switching of digital HD video, audio and USB is essential. Unlike other digital KVM systems, it delivers every pixel of every video frame with zero compression and zero latency, fulfilling the needs of even the most demanding graphical applications and guaranteeing perfect video synchronization for multiple display applications.
  • Going the distance with KVM switching and extension over IP – Black Box’s Agility system extends signals over an Ethernet LAN. The highly adaptable system is designed for the demanding requirements of control rooms and master control rooms, as well as media post-production suites.

Freedom, a flexible 4-port professional grade switch that allows users to shift between separate computer systems by simply moving a mouse cursor from monitor to monitor, integrates with Black Box Agility IP-based KVM system. It can control multiple PCs as one through any mix of operating systems. Other Freedom highlights include the ability to share keyboard and mouse; zero switching delay and the fact that it supports non-linear screen layouts and works with local and remote systems.

“Black Box’s breadth of product offerings is unsurpassed in the industry, providing us with an unique arsenal of solutions to address the evolving challenges our broadcast customers face every day,” said Black Box VP of Technology & Innovation, Tom Strade. “From 4K to virtual studios, our customers rely on us to provide the services and support they need to stay competitive.”

For additional information about Black Box at NAB New York visit here. Attendees can obtain a free exhibits-only pass by registering for NAB New York using Black Box’s guest pass code NY8464.

About Black Box

Black Box is a world leading technology solutions provider specializing in complete high-performance KVM, professional A/V signal distribution and extension and switching solutions for mission-critical applications. Black Box is dedicated to delivering superior project engineering, technical support, and 24/7 customer service you can rely on for your most critical operations. Every day, our customers trust us to design, integrate, and maintain reliable control room solutions for broadcasting, post-production, stadiums & arenas, medical, air traffic control, oil & gas, government & military, and utility industries. Leave the tech to us and our comprehensive technology solutions will deliver secure connections, fast-response times, real-time collaboration and more.