For businesses of all sizes desiring enhanced audio-video meetings over the internet, Sennheiser has just upped the ante in the realm of unified communications. With the launch of Sennheiser TeamConnect Bar Solutions, the audio powerhouse has released a line of scalable, all-in-one conferencing devices to improve the audiovisual experiences in small to mid-sized collaborative spaces.
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The new offerings, part of the TeamConnect Family, have options tailored for varying room sizes — the TeamConnect Bar S for smaller spaces, and the TeamConnect Bar M for medium-sized areas — these devices are equipped with advanced features like integrated beamforming microphones, full-range stereo speakers, and 4K Ultra HD cameras enhanced by AI capabilities, according to Sennheiser. Going beyond just enhancing background video filters, as you would’ve experienced in Google Meet or Zoom calls and bringing equal attention to overall audio experience like never before.
To gain deeper insights into this new market segment, we sat down with Naveen Sridhara, the Director of Sales, Business Communication at Sennheiser India. Sridhara sheds light on the journey, the engineering prowess behind these solutions, and the way Sennheiser is trying to make great strides in terms of utlising this opportunity. Edited excerpts from our interview below:
Q) In a market filled with A/V conferencing solutions, what sets TeamConnect Bar Solutions apart?
Answer: The primary distinguishing factor within our new product portfolio is the utilization of ‘Dante,’ an audio industry protocol that can be seamlessly integrated with the TeamConnect family, especially when employing boundary-layered microphones in the same room. This distinctive feature sets our microphones apart from others in the market. The inclusion of Dante represents a significant enhancement to the TC Bar, complemented by the expansion of the camera capabilities.
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Moreover, TC Bar Solutions offers unparalleled versatility and adaptability, empowering customers to select the most suitable video conferencing device for their specific meeting room dimensions. Integrating the TC Bar into room design is a breeze, thanks to multiple mounting options such as wall mount, VESA mount, tabletop placement, or freestanding installation.
Q) How will AI features impact or change the dynamics of virtual meetings?
Answer: The TeamConnect Bar Solutions features some of the latest advancements in meeting technology to further enhance modern hybrid meetings and lectures – taking video to the next level. The 4K Ultra HD camera is further enhanced with AI features like “Auto Framing” and “Person Tiling”, enabling all remote participants to clearly see everyone in the room. With advanced AI, even the smallest gestures and facial expressions are conveyed to ensure increased meeting inclusion and engagement.
Q) Given the increased concerns about cybersecurity, can you shed more light on the security measures on these devices?
Answer: Our team has diligently implemented robust security measures, adhering to the transport layer security (TLS) standard, to guarantee the utmost security for our devices. An example of a security measure is our recently launched TC Bar solutions which follow the industry’s best security practices, and their configuration is password protected.
The communication to the Sennheiser Control Cockpit, as well as 3rd party media control systems, is encrypted using industry-standard Transport Layer Security 1.2 and safe from misuse. The TC Bars also support IEEE 802.1x network authentication and, of course, for additional privacy, a lens cap is included.
Q) How do you see TC Bar Solutions fitting into the broader ecosystem of Sennheiser’s offerings?
Answer: TC Bar Solutions is the first video conferencing device launched by Sennheiser in our TeamConnect family. It can be easily integrated into a room design with multiple mounting options like wall mount, VESA mount, tabletop, or freestanding. The option of using Dante for adding extension mics and/or a 2nd external USB camera makes the device even more scalable.
Q) How does Sennheiser plan to compete with other established brands in the A/V conferencing space in India?
Answer: Sennheiser stands as a global frontrunner in the microphone industry, as evidenced by prestigious installations worldwide. Our primary emphasis is on highlighting our solutions to the AV end-user market through a dedicated set of satisfied customers. Additionally, Sennheiser India has established a robust network of consultants and system integration partners who play a vital role in presenting Sennheiser solutions to the market.
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Jayesh Shinde
Executive Editor at Digit. Technology journalist since Jan 2008, with stints at Indiatimes.com and PCWorld.in. Enthusiastic dad, reluctant traveler, weekend gamer, LOTR nerd, pseudo bon vivant. View Full Profile
