Gefen launches GAVA home controller
A new IP system from Gefen sees the company entering the lucrative control market.
Digital connectivity solutions provider Gefen, which is primarily known for its switchers, splitters, extenders and scalers, has released Gefen Audio/Video Automation (GAVA), a new control system for both residential and commercial applications.
Distributed in Australia by Amber Technology, GAVA is an IP-based system that controls all connected AV devices in the home or business as well as window shades and lighting. The system uses an HTML5 interface and is optimised to work with smartphones and tablets, using a web browser as the control interface.
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“GAVA emerged as a natural evolution of the Gefen product line as an IPenabled add-on to existing professional automation control systems (PACS) and Mini PACS,” Amber Technology brand administrator Chris Ho says.
“The goal was and is to provide an easy method of control and automation for all Gefen products in a system as well as AV equipment, lighting and shades. Eventually, GAVA will control HVAC systems as well. In fact, we see GAVA continuing to evolve to meet the needs of integrators both today and well into the future.”
Once configured, GAVA retains a unique IP address that enables any authorised device with WiFi capability the ability to access and control the entire AV system. Although designed to run on a network, it does not require internet access for configuration or use, but it can be connected to the internet for firmware and library updates or for remote technical support or control.
“GAVA offers anywhere/anytime control of AV systems with a clean, simple and easy interface that requires little programming skills,” Chris says.
“GAVA’s user-friendly interface allows a quick, simple setup without extensive programming. It supports single- and multi-room/zone AV systems. GAVA offers one of the most robust automation systems at a fraction of the price and installation time of other automation systems.”
The new system comes in a small enclosure that contains both the software and hardware needed for configuration.
It offers IP access to all devices in the system including AV receivers, matrix switchers, Blu-ray players, Apple TV, iTunes, set-top boxes and one or more displays. If some devices are not IPready, GAVA is combined with PACS or Mini PACS to provide a bridge to IP using IR and RS-232.
When all devices are connected to GAVA, users walk through a wizard-type set up using template screens in which they identify and configure their devices and how they are controlled. GAVA is given a unique IP address that enables any authorised smartphone, tablet or any device with WiFi or Ethernet capability access to the system.
System setup typically takes just 15 minutes and does not require any technical capability. No downloaded applications, software or licenses are required. By leveraging web-based libraries, users can access various selections without programming.
Essentially, GAVA is ‘plug and play’.
“GAVA can be used with great success in both home and business or commercial applications,” Chris says.
“When combined with Gefen’s AV Conference Processor it can easily automate conference rooms, business facilities and more. And when it is combined with a large-scale Gefen matrix it can automate and control very large scale broadcast facilities or editing studios.
“Because of its ability to integrate using IP control, and the ability to bridge in IR and RS-232 devices, GAVA is very flexible in its usage.”
GAVA is available to purchase in a variety of ‘kit’ packages. Initial kits are available for residential environments, conference rooms and auditoriums. GAVA also comes with remote service access and can be easily upgraded throughout the life of the product.
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