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DKT Freeway Unites Multiroom A/V With Ethernet Control (10/3/2004)

DKT introduced a new solution to common A/V system interfacing problems at the January ISE (Integrated Systems Europe) show in Geneva. FreeWay, a Universal Ethernet A/V Gateway Controller, is a neat little problem-solver unit for all those irksome control interfaces that people ideally want to access via their standard TCP/IP network.

Smart homes, schools, corporate boardrooms and many more multi-room environments are typical of the installations that FreeWay is designed to simplify. Simple to install and programme, FreeWay is a control matrix with 6 RS232 ports, 3 RS422/485 ports, 6 logic inputs, 6 logic outputs and uniquely, a 4-way IR matrix to control 'same brand' equipment from the one interface.

All this control is matrixed back and forth through its Ethernet port so all the old (and not so old) legacy equipment - TVs, audio, computers, lighting, video and more - can be accessed and controlled over one wired or wireless network. The unit also incorporates its own web server for set-up and access. It includes its own built-in compiler for its FreeScript(tm) macro language (they way it configures how the ports are managed and how the box should respond to input events) and its own 'IR learning' hardware and software.

A good deal more powerful than it appears at first glance, it also has the ability to be controlled by any browser on the network (touch screen, PC, Mac, or iPAQ for example) using Macromedia Flash or even hyperlinks in a Microsoft Word document. Freeway is - uniquely - the ideal legacy interface for the Microsoft Media Centre range, which allows Microsoft Media Centre to be fully integrated with customers' own existing multimedia A/V systems.

The unit is simple to set up by an installer without the need for specialist training - anyone capable of programming a Pronto will have no problem setting up a Freeway.

"There is a fast growing need for a very capable, comprehensive multi-standard interface unit," says DKT director David King. "A problem solving box that eliminates the need for multiple control units and interfaces. It simplifies the whole installation process and makes operation simpler for the customer. What's more, it's very cost effective."

www.dktgroup.com