SE2 Labs has taken powerful AV products another step in the right direction by adding significant remote diagnostic features to its Integrated Theater Console (ITC One). Built to simplify the process of matching, wiring, programming, and calibrating AV components, the ITC One can now serve as a technology troubleshooter, even diagnosing problems with devices connected externally, according to company officials.
When an end user experiences a technical issue with their entertainment system, they often don't know where to start looking for the problem. Because all of the components in the ITC One are pre-integrated into a single console, SE2 Labs technicians are able to use IP and RS-232 connectivity to run a complete diagnostic check on the unit to identify the issue. If it's internal, an installer can promptly be sent to replace the hardware or take the necessary measure. If it's external, or something that simply requires a re-boot, SE2 Labs can advise a homeowner on a course of action thus saving the installer from making an unneeded service call and saving the user from paying for it.
For example, satellite dish providers sometimes have problems with DVR lock-up. An ITC One owner can now alert SE2 Labs of the issue, using the RS-232 connection to see if the satellite feed is active or locked-up. If the latter, SE2 Labs can activate or recommend a simple re-boot or a call to the satellite provider.
"The remote diagnostic features of the ITC One give it considerably more value because it's like having on-demand access to an AV professional," said SE2 Labs founder and ITC One inventor Michael Pyle. "Aside from the occasional upgrade, I don't expect ITC One owners will need any technical support for the console itself, but they will appreciate the approach we took to keeping the system operational even if an external component or system fails."
Other items that could be monitored remotely include communication errors between components, temperature readings, and the battery life left on the remote control. Additionally, SE2 Labs can remotely update firmware or control any part of the ITC One to help answer questions and even update codes for components connected externally. For those concerned with privacy, the ITC One has a lock-out feature that allows a user to block SE2 Labs from remotely accessing their unit for any reason.
Each ITC One includes an array of hardware, including DirecTV high-definition DVR, Dish Network DVR or national cable providers' DVR (including Comcast, Time Warner, Cox Cable and more), AMX NetLinx Control System, Bryston pre-amp processor with full digital surround sound processor, IcePower high-end D-class amplifiers, Vidikron high-end video processor, Apple Video iPod dock, proprietary remote control, Microsoft Xbox 360 (with Windows Media Center access), Transparent Cable power conditioning, Transparent cabling and cable harness and an anti-noise/vibration system. Optional features include a Blu-ray Disc drive, Apple TV and Nintendo Wi.
Company officials said all components in the ITC One are tested externally before being integrated into the console to ensure maximum performance. Vertical integration of the various circuit boards as well as a proprietary convection cooling system allows the ITC One to run cooler and use less electricity than a competitive AV rack. An on-board power conditioner and stabilization system provide two additional layers of defense for typical AV installation problems.
The ITC One has an MSRP of $25,000.
