At Open Box Technology we love it when we see technology used in a way that helps, supports or encourages churches and christians. This is particularly encouraging when we find something that addresses a specific need in a well designed, intuitive and innovative way. PrayerMate is exactly that kind of technology.
Christ Church Gladesville recently approached Open Box Technology to help them upgrade their Video system. We installed two things: a new HD system consisting of two new LCD screens allowing the preacher and singers to see song words from the stage; and, a Black Magic Designs 16×16 SDI matrix to allow easy distribution of video signals across the two new screens, the existing projection screen and the preview monitor. This system doesn’t just meet current needs but will also allow easy expansion in the future, allowing screens in more locations to be fed a range of signals.
Presentations are usually an integral part of the modern church service. Song lyrics, bible verses, liturgy or videos displayed on a projection screen form the basis for many aspects of the service. However, behind the scenes this is often a nightmare to manage. What presentation software do you use? How can you ensure the right content will be on the screen/s at the right time? How do you train people to use it? How do you manage the processes required to collate all the material together? What happens when a guest speaker or presenter turns up last minute with a presentation on a USB Stick (or CD, DVD…)?
But the questions don’t just stop with the technology. The purpose behind presentations is to visually communicate ideas. What does it mean to communicate ideas well? How do you communicate effectively? How do you ensure the technology doesn’t get in the way of the communication, or the other way around?
Open Box Technology has been working with St Anne’s Ryde since 2013, supplying and installing new equipment for their audio visual system. Their AV system had been in use for about 10 years and was in need of updating. We supplied new EV ZXA1 foldback speakers, a few additional microphones as well as an Allen & Heath GLD80 console and stage box system.
The Allen & Heath digital console has allowed the reduction in outboard equipment required. Some of this equipment has been donated to other churches, and some reused in other areas of the St Anne’s facility. Further, the digital console has given more power to the operators, while allowing recall of the default settings. This ensures a basic standard of quality regardless of the operator.
Open Box Technology manages the Audio Visual and IT systems at St Barnabas Broadway. We are responsible for upgrades, servicing and maintenance, as well as general advice and assistance.
St Barnabas has a state of the art Public Address system. A D&B Audiotechnik speaker system and BSS London system processor take care of the reproduction responsibilities. A Roland M480 console, digital multicore and personal monitoring system takes care of the audio front end. The presentations are run through Pro Presenter 5 off a new Hewlett Packard PC.
