The best new AV equipment, connected devices, controllers, and sensors.
Record Products 2016: Hardware, Software & Control Systems

Best in Category: Wireless Daylight Sensor
This solar-powered peel-and-stick sensor for automated shade management requires no batteries; it sits in a window frame or jamb measuring daylight and wirelessly communicating the data to a nearby ceiling or wall-mounted controller. This controller, which can host up to 20 wireless devices, then sends the data to a MechoNet hub, which issues the commands to move the shade as prescribed.

Equinox 73 LCD Touchscreen
Thanks to its larger-than-average 7" touchscreen, this home-management device can display up to three customizable widgets simultaneously, allowing immediate access to building subsystems including lighting and temperature. The user can toggle between full-screen and edit mode and manage up to 12 subsystems in total.

Best Shelter
This scalable commercial security setup uses a combination of wireless technology and code-compliant mechanical hardware for lockdown of a specific door, hallway, or entire building in the case of an emergency. The system comprises a gateway and repeater that sends signals to initiate lockdown; a fob that manages which sections are to be affected; a solid brass lockset; and an electric exit device.

DW-311
As the first dual-technology wall-switch occupancy sensor on the market, the DW-311 uses passive infrared and ultrasonic technologies to detect movement in a space. The specification-grade solution, which provides building and energy-code compliance for small- and medium-sized applications, offers 0–10-volt dimming control for LED lighting systems. It’s available for 120, 277, and 347 voltages and is UL and cUL-listed.

Editor's Choice: Life Space UX
This collection of tabletop hybrids combines sound and visuals. Capable of being brightened or dimmed to mimic candlelight, the Glass Sound Speaker, pictured, has actuators that vibrate on the glass to deliver clear, high notes and a powerful midrange. The 4K Ultra Short Throw Projector provides four times the clarity of full high definition, is 3-D capable, and can serve as a laser light source.
“Life Space pushes the boundaries of light and sound to become an element of its own.” —Juror Enrique Peiniger