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Live events can happen anywhere and any time.  We go where ever our clients tell us to go and we don’t always get the connectivity we need.  Our clients come to us because they know how much we enjoy the challenge of making the impossible, possible.  Even better than that, we don’t make it a big deal and it doesn’t have to be expensive.

We now ‘stock’ a number of SIP trunks (virtually) in our rental fleet which can be presented in your conference as an analogue telephone line.  This allows us to connect industry standard equipment such an digital telephone hybrids and telephone balancing units to a analogue phone lines which actually use the internet.  It’s just one more way that we’re helping you to use live events to bring people together.

We are very excited about offering to our customers the latest Yamaha digital mixing console aimed at users who don’t need to masses of functionality and flexibility in more expensive desks but who still want a good quality desk that sounds good.  Future proof using DANTE and 32 channels in and out using USB2.0, this desk has plenty to offer most users…  See what Yamaha has to say below and have a look here for our prices …

Yamaha has always made it a mission to stay in touch with the needs of sound engineers worldwide. The outcome is evident in the success of the recent CL and QL series digital mixing consoles, and the flagship RIVAGE PM10. The key to success has always been in supporting the user’s creativity. Creativity is most effective when unrestricted, and now Yamaha has created a new digital mixing console that gives the user’s intuition even freer rein. TouchFlow Operation™ introduced in the TF series consoles allows the user to respond to the music and artists on stage with unprecedented speed and freedom, taking live sound reinforcement to a new level of refinement. With the TouchFlow Operation interface optimized for touch panel control, experienced engineers as well as newcomers to the field will find it easier than ever to achieve the ideal mix. Recallable D-PRE preamplifiers support sound quality that will satisfy the most discerning professional ears, while advanced live recording features and seamless operation with high-performance I/O racks give these compact digital mixers capabilities that make them outstanding choices for a wide range of applications. Experience the intuitive control and creative freedom that a truly evolved digital console can provide.

TOUCHFLOW OPERATION™ – SMOOTH, NATURAL CONTROL FLOW

Yamaha digital consoles have always been designed with input from leading engineers worldwide to ensure that the most efficient, intuitive operation is achieved. The highly regarded Selected Channel and Centralogic™ interfaces attest to the success of that approach. The TF series combines Yamaha know-how with new input from the field and the latest touch-screen technology to deliver an evolved experience in console operation. Smooth setup and operation, practical presets and scenes, refined design, and software applications that integrate seamlessly with the entire system: these elements comprise TouchFlow Operation, a new concept in console interfaces that offers unprecedented comfort and convenience in small consoles, for a wide range of users and applications.

In developing the TF series Yamaha engineers built from their existing base of acclaimed high-end mixer interfaces, adding intuitive control in an interface optimized for the type of touch panel control that has become a familiar feature in a wide range of applications. Allowing most operations to be carried out via the touch panel alone, the innovative TF series interface will quickly become second nature to a broad spectrum of users. Whether you have experience with Yamaha digital consoles, work with other digital consoles, operate analog consoles, or have never operated a mixer before, TF consoles will lead you to the desired results quickly and effortlessly through a smooth, efficient workflow. The availability of physical controls surrounding the touch panel further enhances control versatility and precision.

TOUCH OPERATION FOR INTIMATE CONTROL

Refined for the smoothest possible operation via touch-panel control, the TF user interface offers a smooth workflow that can be an advantage in any mixing situation. The display content has been specifically designed for easy, direct accessibility, with a layout that promotes the most natural, efficient mixing. Touch panel operation is as easy as shaping the sound with your fingertips.
TOUCH & TURN KNOB OFFERS EXTRA CONTROL PRECISION
When you need extra precision for a fine EQ or other adjustment, the physical Touch & Turn knob is always available right beside the touch panel. There are also four User Defined Knobs below the panel that can be assigned to control compressor threshold, EQ gain, or other parameters you need fast, direct access to while mixing. The knobs always affect the currently selected channel.

TRADITIONAL OVERVIEW AND SELECTED CHANNEL INTERFACES

Like the CL series consoles, operation is based around Overview and Selected Channel windows. The overview display shows the parameters for eight channels at a time, while the Touch & Turn knob provides direct access to gain, 1-knob EQ™, 1-knob COMP™, gate threshold, effect send level, pan, and other parameters. Touch the highlighted parameter a second time to switch to the Selected Channel display when you need access to detailed parameters for finer control.

Effective gain, compressor, and EQ setup requires a considerable degree of skill and experience. Even veteran engineers need to spend time on these important basic settings. In addition to their intuitive user interfaces, TF consoles include a number of features that contribute to faster, smoother setup of these essential parameters.

1-KNOB COMP™ & 1-KNOB EQ™: ONE KNOB TO DIAL IN THE IDEAL SOUND

An experienced engineer can do a lot with a compressor: bring a guitar to life, add punch to bass, tighten up a snare, and make vocals ride clearly on the mix. The 1-knob COMP can do all of this quickly and easily, without the need to juggle multiple parameters to achieve the desired effect. Originally introduced in Yamaha analog mixers, the 1-knob COMP quickly became a popular and valued feature. It has now been further refined in a digital version that adds new setup ease and efficiency to the TF consoles.The same concept has been applied in a new 1-knob EQ feature that provides notably improved speed and smooth operation. 1-knob EQ has been painstakingly fine-tuned by Yamaha R&D staff in cooperation with distinguished sound engineers, to ensure that you can achieve outstanding results with minimum effort in the shortest possible time. A Vocal Mode makes it easier than ever to achieve a clear, well defined vocal sound, while an Intensity Mode offers 1-knob “intensity” control over EQ curves you either select from the presets or create from scratch.But there’s more: the 1-knob COMP and 1-knob EQ are provided on the output channels too, so you can quickly achieve overall output compression or EQ that ideally matches the room and audience size. The output 1-knob EQ has a Loudness Mode in place of the Vocal Mode, effectively increasing the sound pressure level while maintaining optimum sound as you rotate the knob.Both the 1-knob COMP and 1-knob EQ provide quick access to the full compressor and EQ displays, so you can fine tune settings as required.

GAINFINDER™ SUPPORTS PRECISION GAIN SETUP

Gain is the first adjustment the input signal sees, and the way it is set up influences how subsequent parameters will affect the signal. Yamaha has developed a way to make fast, accurate setup of this important basic parameter easier than ever. The new GainFinder feature facilitates optimum gain setup for individual input signals so that ideal overall operation and signal quality is achieved. The user only has to set channel gain so that the central green indicator in the level meter remains lit for the longest possible time. Of course the level meters also perform their traditional function, so standard gain setup procedure can be followed if preferred.

The familiar Yamaha scene memory that stores mix settings for instant recall when needed is included as always. There’s also a range of channel presets that have been created in cooperation with leading microphone manufacturers and eminent sound engineers, providing starting points that take you a long way towards achieving great sound.The channel presets cover parameters such as HA gain, EQ, dynamics, and much more, right down to details like channel name and color. Less time needs to be spent on basic setup so that more time is available for refining the mix and communicating with the performers.

QUICKPRO PRESETS™ PROVIDE INSTANT ACCESS TO PRO SOUND SETUPS

Working with microphone manufacturers such as Audio-Technica, Sennheiser and Shure as well as respected engineers, and evaluating a large number of microphones, musical instruments, speaker systems, and in-ear monitors, the Yamaha R&D team focused on creating a range of shortcuts to great sound that would be effective in a wide variety of live-sound situations. Armed with these practical presets even the novice engineer can get very close to the ideal sound, while experienced engineers will appreciate the significant time savings they can provide starting points for further adjustments.The QuickPro Presets can be searched by instrument type and recalled quickly and easily. The presets include HA gain, EQ, Comp and other settings, right down to the channel name and color. The 1-knob EQ and 1-knob COMP can be used with QuickPro Presets, providing a super streamlined way to tweak the sound.The output channel preset library includes parameter sets optimized for Yamaha powered speakers, with several variations to match different environments and room sizes. Presets are provided for in-ear monitors too. All of these can be used as is when time is tight, but they are also great starting points for manual fine tuning. Setups created from the presets or from scratch can be saved as additional presets too.

COMMENT FROM AUDIO-TECHNICA CORPORATION

“Each Audio-Technica microphone is painstakingly designed to give a truly accurate reproduction within the application it has been selected for. We strive to provide the best possible tools allowing the user to realise the expression of their work. Collaborating closely with the TF engineers on the instrument specific presets means that we can be sure our microphones deliver their best performance, while leaving the user free to focus on the creativity and character of the production.”

COMMENT FROM SENNHEISER

“The presets in the Yamaha TF series digital mixers provide users with an accurate indication of how to set the EQ for a wide variety of instrument/microphone combinations. These preset functions give the sound technician a solid basis to start from. All that is needed is to adapt the EQ-ing to the specific room and the instruments.”

COMMENT FROM SHURE

“We’re thrilled to be offering QuickPro presets of our most popular SM, Beta, KSM and PG Alta microphones in the new TF mixer. When you combine Shure’s 90 years of microphone experience with the versatile new TF digital mixer and exceptional Yamaha speakers, these presets allow engineers at any level of experience to leverage our combined technical expertise for quick, simple and effective sound checks and performances that sound amazing. Engineers can focus on mixing great quality audio instead of chasing problems. It’s an incredibly powerful solution.”

TWO SCENE MEMORY BANKS

The scene memory features banks A and B, each capable of holding up to 100 scenes.That’s a total of 200 scenes that can be set up and instantly recalled whenever needed.A number of scenes are pre-programmed to give users a head start: scenes with the 1-knob COMP and 1-knob EQ controls engaged for the easiest possible operation, and scenes with the 1-knob features disabled for experienced engineers who might want to follow an established procedure. The banks are great for organizing different types of scenes: one for scenes categorized by music type, and the other by event type, for example.

The TF series hardware is packed with features that contribute to superior operability and convenience. Faders, knobs, and buttons with outstanding fit and feel work seamlessly with state-of-the-art display technology, including high-visibility channel name and color displays. The touch panel itself offers an ideal blend of comprehensive visual feedback and fast response.The physical layout of these components brings everything together in a system that offers surprisingly efficient workflow.

PANEL LAYOUT MAXIMIZES WORKFLOW EFFICIENCY

Careful analysis of the workflows favored by a large number of engineers has led to a highly efficient panel layout. Rather than simply providing a long list of advanced features, the TF consoles present meaningful features in the most logical and accessible way through an overall design that maximizes visibility and operability.

COMPREHENSIVE FADER BANK SECTION

Two INPUT banks and one OUTPUT bank are provided, and the GROUP bank can be selected by pressing both the INPUT bank buttons simultaneously. The GROUP bank allows the levels of multiple channels to be controlled from a single DCA fader. There’s also a CUSTOM fader bank where you can assign any input, output, and DCA group to any fader.

DCA ROLL-OUT ENHANCES GROUP CONTROL

When the GROUP fader bank is selected, all faders other than DCA masters 1 through 8 function as Roll-out faders. Selecting one of the DCA groups instantly “rolls out” the input channels belonging to that group to the Roll-out faders. This useful function makes it easy to adjust the level and other parameters of individual channels while using the eight DCA faders for overall mixing.

CHANNEL NAME AND COLOR

A display panel located above each channel fader shows the assigned channel name or ID, the port name, and the current fader setting. Phantom power status as well as gate and comp operation can also be displayed. A color bar that shows the assigned channel color makes visual navigation a breeze, and prevents confusion when fader banks are changed or scenes are recalled.

FADERS PROVIDE A CLEAR VIEW OF ALL INPUTS

The TF5 has 33 motor faders, the TF3 has 25, and the TF1 has 17.All rear-panel inputs have individual faders so their status can be verified at a glance and they can be directly and immediately accessed for control.

SENDS ON FADER SECTION

The SENDS ON FADER buttons instantly bring the specified AUX or FX bus levels up on the faders for easy verification and adjustment. When a SENDS ON FADER button is engaged the MASTER fader acts as the master for the corresponding bus, so AUX levels can be checked and controlled without having to switch fader banks.

ADVANCED DESIGN PROMOTES SMOOTH, COMFORTABLE OPERATION

The upper section of the panel is designed to double as a rest for an iPad, set list, score, memos, and/or other small items. The panel consists of three angled sections that give the operator maximum visibility and access.

OTHER FEATURES FOR EFFICIENT WORKFLOW

– USER DEFINED KNOBS section: Frequently used parameters such as compressor threshold and EQ gain, for example, can be assigned for direct, instant access when needed.- USER DEFINED KEYS section: Assign mixer settings that you use often to these six buttons for instant access, such as direct one-touch recall of specified scenes.- MUTE section: Multiple inputs or effects can be muted with a single operation.- FX section: A dedicated channel offers easy effect ON/OFF switching, cue monitor ON/OFF switching, level adjustment, and effect parameter editing.- ST IN section: In addition to allowing digital playback from an iPad or iPhone or recording/playback with a USB device, you have fingertip control of BGM playback and other audio files.

Separate software applications that allow wireless mixing, personal monitor mixing, or offline setup of digital live mixing consoles have become fairly common.The TF series goes a step further with three dedicated apps – TF Editor, TF StageMix, and MonitorMix – that feature user interfaces that seamlessly extend the console’s own on any device.

TF EDITOR FACILITATES OFFLINE EDITING PLUS SHOWTIME CONTROL

The TF Editor application for Windows and Mac computers provides a complete interface for offline editing and setup of TF consoles, with scene and preset management capabilities plus convenient keyboard entry of channel names.In addition to being able to set up the console offline at any convenient location and time, the TF Editor can be used online at the same time as the TF StageMix and MonitorMix applications. A Windows 8 PC with a multi-touch screen can use the same gestures as on the console itself. And if using Wi-Fi, a PC can function as a convenient remote-mixing device. Up to three devices running TF Editor or StageMix can be connected at the same time.

TF STAGEMIX™ FOR WIRELESS MIXING

TF StageMix is an iPad application that provides wireless control of TF series consoles, allowing remote mixing from audience seating, in front of floor monitors, or any other listening position. It can also be used at the console as an extension of the console’s own interface. The TF StageMix interface is designed for similar operation and flow to the console display, making it easier than ever to refine the mix from any location.

PERSONAL MONITORING WITH MONITORMIX

The MonitorMix application for the TF Series allows individual wireless AUX mixing from up to 10 iPhone, iPad or iPod touch devices simultaneously. Each performer can have convenient control over the AUX buses assigned to them, without having to deal with complex settings or parameters. They can also create personal Group settings for even easier adjustment: all levels on just one fader, for example. Since up to three devices running TF Editor or StageMix and up to 10 devices running MonitorMix can be connected at the same time, even large bands can have the personal control they need, reducing demands on the sound engineer.

A NATURAL SOUND FOUNDATION WITH EXTRA CREATIVE FREEDOM

Faithful reproduction of the on-stage sound is the foundation, then creativity can take over.Yamaha’s unswerving approach to live sound reinforcement is alive and well in the TF series.The input stage of any console has a notable effect on its sonic character.The TF consoles feature acclaimed D-PRE™ microphone preamplifiers that not only deliver outstanding quality, but are recallable as well. Circuitry and individual components have been reassessed and redesigned where necessary to achieve extraordinarily pure, natural sound. That solid sonic foundation is backed up by an updated selection of high-performance processors and effects. Input and output channel processors such as EQ, gates, and compressors are complemented by eight processors that provide a broad spectrum of creative capabilities.

RECALLABLE D-PRE™ MICROPHONE PREAMPLIFIERS

The TF series consoles feature new recallable versions of Yamaha’s acclaimed D-PRE microphone preamplifier. The preamplifiers, or head amplifiers in any console play a significant role in defining the sound of the final mix, so Yamaha engineers spared no effort in developing and refining the D-PRE design to ensure that every nuance and subtlety of the original signal is effectively captured. The circuit is based on a discrete inverted Darlington pair configuration that achieves clean, precise amplification with consistently low noise and distortion at all signal levels. While some microphone preamps are built specifically to impart a unique character of their own, the D-PRE preamplifier has been painstakingly designed with a flat, wide frequency response that retains the tone and nuance of the original sound so that the essence of the performer’s art is captured intact.

POWERFUL PROCESSORS AND EFFECTS

In addition to EQ and two dynamics processors on each channel, the TF consoles offer eight powerful processors for wide-ranging sonic control. The globally accessible FX 1 and 2 feature the same type of SPX processors that have become standards in recording and live sound applications, offering 17 programs ranging from reverb and delay through modulation effects such as flanger and chorus to 3-band multiband compression. The panel EDIT key opens the effect parameter display where detailed parameters such as reverb time and delay feedback can be adjusted as required.The remaining six processors are available in the AUX 9/10~19/20 master channels.All effects other than reverb are provided.* Multiband compression is ideal for in-ear monitor level control, delay can be used for speaker alignment, and much more. And since these AUX buses can be sent to the main stereo bus, the effects can be used to supplement the available input channel processing when FX 1 and 2 aren’t quite enough.The AUX 1~8 buses and main output channels include the same 4-band parametric EQ as provided on the input channels, plus 31-band Flex12 GEQ. Both types of EQ are invaluable for optimizing speaker response and eliminating feedback.* Reverb is available for AUX 9/10 and 11/12.

A VERSATILE LIVE RECORDING AND PLAYBACK SOLUTION FOR ANY APPLICATION

Live recording capability is becoming increasingly important in live sound systems. From simple 2-track recording and playback using a USB storage device* to all-out multitrack recording with a computer based DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), the TF series is ready to roll. TF consoles come supplied with Steinberg’s Cubase AI DAW application, providing an easy way to simultaneously record up to 16 tracks to a computer connected to the console via USB 2.0.For more complex recording requirements an optional DAW such as Steinberg’s Nuendo Live application allows up to 34 tracks to be recorded simultaneously.MP3 and WAV files can be played back from USB storage devices, and audio from an iPhone or iPad can be played back via a direct digital connection.When playing back from a DAW, analog input or DAW input can be individually selected for each channel so that pre-recorded material can be mixed with live input for virtual sound checks or rehearsals.Of course BGM and sound effects can be played back too.*Please refer to www.yamahaproaudio.com for compatible hard disks.

Here at Present Communications ltd, we’ve been using this amazing vision mixer/switcher/scaler/magic box for a while now and we thought it was about time to tell you about it.  The reason we say it’s a magic box is because it has a scaler on every input meaning you don’t have to match inputs.  Each input can be individually scaled, stretched, cropped and zoomed as required to fit any available output resolution.

Stellar Image Quality at 1080p (3G-SDI)
Supports 1080p video signals at bit rates as high as 3 Gbps – twice the rate of conventional HD. Asserts all the vividness of high-realism, high-detail camera and computer sources.

True Multi-format Performance
There’s no need to convert the input source to match the video output format. The built-in scalers up-convert and down-convert any video source to the optimal resolution.

Full Range of Connectivity
The V-800HD supports a large number of input formats, from analog to digital, with all the necessary connectors. The SDI connectors accommodate 3G, HD, and SD. The DVI-I connectors pull full duty for DVI-D, DVI-A and even HDMI using a simple HDMI/DVI adapter. The Mini D-Sub 15 pin type connector accommodates SD/HD component as well as computer input via RGB.

4:4:4/10-bit Internal Processing
The V-800HD uses 4:4:4/10-bit internal signal processing. This lets you achieve compositing and output with no reduction in high-detail RGB signals driven from a computer. The result is a sharp, unblurred display of video and text, even on large screens and LED displays. The V-800HD delivers high image quality for all uses, from live broadcasts to event displays.

Newly Developed Key-compositing Engine
Along with the upgraded internal signal processing, a newly developed keyer is included. Chroma Key lets you adjust phase range, amount of chroma, and other parameters based on HSV colour space that is closely related to human chromatic sensation. This allows you to achieve high quality and tight chroma key compositing even when using 1080p video sources. What’s more, the V-800HD can accept an External Key. This attractively composites colourful CG titles and gradation/transparency clips, enabling you to achieve visual effects that are even more impressive.

Multiviewer Output for Source Monitoring
The multiviewer output allows you to monitor the status of all input sources plus the Program and Preview outputs. The convenient HDMI connector enables the use of a readily available and affordable monitor.

Built-in HDCP Mode
When playing back a Blu-ray disc that contains commercial content or digital broadcast programming, the digital output is encoded using HDCP (Highbandwidth Digital Content Protection), which is one means of copyright protection. This means that switchers that are not HDCP-compatible will not display or pass-through such video content, even in cases where permission for use in a live event was obtained from the copyright holder. To resolve this problem, the V-800HD features a dedicated mode that officially supports HDCP. A panel indicator lets you check the operating state when the unit is in the HDCP mode.

Scalers You Can Use Any Way You Like
The V-800HD features scalers that let you make settings independently for every input source. With these, you can take input sources of different resolutions and adjust to any sizing and resolution including odd-sized LED walls. You can freely scale digital, analog RGB, and component sources.

A Full Range of Keyers
In addition to the newly designed Picture-in-Picture (PinP), Luminance Key, Chroma Key, and DSK for 4:4:4/10-bit input, you can also use an External Key.

Multi-Zoom
Using the shared input function, you can assign the video on channel 1 to channels 2 through 4 and the video on channel 5 to channels 6 through 8. The scaler for each input can zoom into any position in the video image enabling a virtual multi-camera environment. This gives the appearance that you have additional cameras connected.

Present Communications are delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for an award for “Best Hybrid Event or Live Streaming Solution” at the Event Technology Awards.

Our solution allows us to completely bypass network firewalls and system intricacies safely and securely and to set up video conferencing or webcasting solutions (or any other type of internet connection that may be required) very quickly and easily and with little or no configuration at all. Given its ability to break through most complexities, we have named it PUNCH!

This solution is revolutionising the events industry by facilitating video conferencing and webcasting in places where previously it would not have been possible without expensive and time consuming access to an on-site IT teams and venue networking hardware.

It is worth noting that this product can be used to access internet in many circumstances but the reason why we see it is so fundamental for video conferencing is because it allows video conference unit to receive incoming calls even when behind a firewall. The only thing that is required from the venue is access to the World Wide Web i.e. if you can see google, PUNCH! will work.

“We are very excited about being nominated for this award.  This is a product that we use day in day out and it’s great for the team to get recognition for the way in which they are facilitating business communication and allowing these businesses to connect to their international audiences easily and more cost effectively than ever before” – Kieron Garlic, Managing Director.

We wish all the teams shortlisted for the various awards the best of luck and look forward to being there on the night.

We are very pleased to be sponsoring ISES as one of the events sponsors. We will be filming their upcoming ISES Talks events over the coming year.

ISES UK is part of a massive international organisation with 7000 members who work together to promote the events industry.  You can view more of the ISES UK videos here or indeed check out some of our videos here.

Present Communications ltd are pleased to announce another remarkable product to the hire stock, the Newsspotter service flyaway kit.  This satellite system allows us to connect to the internet from any remote location in the UK, Europe, Middle East and North Africa.  This is perfect where the airways might be congested such as large public events, festivals, regattas where mobile 3G and 4G reception can become poor and also in remote, outdoor spaces with no mobile signal at all.  This Tooway satellite systems works anywhere with a line of sight to the Europasat satellite.

More and more, customers need their content streamed live to the web and broadcast around the world and limitations such as poor internet connectivity and unreliable mobile phone signals are no longer acceptable excuses.  Using a large range of other products in our portfolio such as the PUNCH! and PresentAnywhere systems, Present Communications can truly present from anywhere; not only broadcasting to the web but also providing live, two way communications in the most remote of locations.

Of course, this isn’t just useful for providing internet at festivals, the Newsspotter uncontended satellite connection provides the ideal backup (or main connection) for those important links that just can’t go wrong.  Used in conjunction with our Teradeck Bond II, the bandwidth provided by the satellite can be load balanced with other connection such as wifi, 3G, 4G, ethernet and more.  Of course, internet connectivity is not just for streaming video (a particular favourite of ours).  Event staff as well as paying customers require internet to do their jobs.  They need it for PDQ machines, cloud based software and general communications.

And satellite is not as expensive as you might think.  Typical bandwidth costs for a satellite are about a quarter of that charged by the mobile phone operators, making satellite connectivity a truly accessible technology.  Good internet is not only a requirement in this connected age but also provides the potential for fantastic social media exposure.

Present Communications are delighted to confirm that they are the first major UK hire company to have acquired stock of the new Teradek Bond II unit. The unit, which allows up to 6 data dongles to split a live video stream and transmit via mobile phone networks, opens up a range of possibilities for both broadcasters and event professionals.

Whether your need is as a news organisation trying to broadcast where no satellite or standard internet connectivity is available, or an event organiser looking for a solution where your venue is unable to provide reliable internet access, the Bond II could provide the perfect solution.

As well as the base unit, Present Communications are able to provide a range of associated and ancillary services. These include 4G data dongles from all UK networks that are compatible with the device, provisioning of Sputnik servers for recombining the data feeds at the receiving end and of course our renowned webcasting platform.

Prices for the device and services are as follows:

Teradek Bond II unit	Per Day	£325
4G Data Dongle Hire	Per Day	£20
Dedicated Sputnik Server	Per Day	£150
Data Upload over 4G	Per GB	£30

We are also delighted to offer an introductory bundle, which saves £300 on buying the services separately. The package includes:

1 day hire of Teradek Bond II unit
1 day hire of 4 x 4G UK data dongles from 4 separate networks
10GB data upload allowance
2 days of dedicated Sputnik server access

Package price: £695

This package should provide everything you need to stream a 2 hour event from any location with mobile data reception, but do please contact us for more options or if there is anything else you need to understand about whether the Teradek Bond II is the right solution for your event.

All prices exclude VAT, which is charged at the standard rate. Prices correct as of 8th June 2015.

Remote and flexible working is of course part of ones daily life now.  If we are not remote workers personally, we certainly know a few who are.  Data is accessible in the cloud and mobile phones and the Internet have made interpersonal communications easy, even from opposite sides of the World.

As the World shrinks, our workforce and our customers can be easily reached at any time and from any place.  Of course it’s not just the convenience; using the Internet rather than travel means we can reduce cost, increase efficiency and productivity whilst reducing our effect on the environment.

Many of us work with colleagues from all over the World and in different time zones.  Increasingly, we now communicate with those people via video link, whether it’s in a conference suite or from our desks using systems like Lync or Zoom. This use of video brings benefits over telephone and email.  It’s said that when we communicate, 55% of our message is expressed through body language and 38% expressed through tone of voice.

Even as a video conferencing service provider, I would still argue that there is no substitute for face-to-face meetings.  Large group meetings, presentations and workshops are still important but with teams spread from one continent to the next, it’s often not possible to get everyone in one room and that’s really where video conferencing comes in.  Large venues, hotels, conference and exhibition centres allow us to get large groups together but we often can’t get everyone in the same room.

Historically, event organisers have avoided complicated video links and streaming on the Internet and instead opted for simpler, safer options. With websites like YouTube now accounting for more than half of Internet traffic, video over the web is much safer, more reliable and resilient.  Event spaces are also realising the value of offering high quality connectivity to their clients.  We regularly run concurrent meetings on different continents, have over flow rooms on the other side of the world or join teams from different jurisdictions all together in one virtual place in order that they benefit from each others experiences.

If you want to know more about how we might be able to make this work for you, please feel free to give us a call…

We challenge you to join us!

Present Communications have entered a team into the famous Tough Mudder competition on the 16th August 2014 in Cirencester.  We are due to start at 11am.

Tough Mudder has raised over £600,000 over the years for Help for Heroes and the Tough Mudder course requires each group to work as one, come together and complete the course as a team.

We’re excited about it and we hope you can join us.  You’re more than welcome to join our team or enter your own.  If you can’t join (or if you can), please donate and help us help Help for Heroes.

Customers don’t really want to have to understand the technicalities of an IT/VC solution.  They don’t want to deal with their IT team or the outsourced IT company looking after the venue which they’re about to hold an event at.  The reality is however that our job as Video Conference providers are not able to provide a solution unless we have the support of the in-house IT team.  Until now…

PUNCH! takes a normal internet connection, any connection, and automatically assigns a fixed public IP address to the device that is plugged into it.  You don’t need to speak to the Internet providers or understand how it works.  So we thought we’d take it one step further. Why don’t we use it to Video Conference over wifi?  Or why don’t we use it to provide a wireless access point?  Well, that’s what we did.  Then we had a little play with them!