A bit off topic, but the video preview you see is the output of an analog to IP converter (such as an Axis 240Q). The Pronto has had this ability for a while.
The control processor will be introduced in 2011. Although there was a model of it at the CEDIA booth, they did not want to be more specific on a date. I'm anxious to get my hands on one.
Paul
P.S. As usual, the Pronto guys were very amicable and had on hand just about everything related to the Pronto.
Last edited by Paul Biron on September 26, 2010 09:57.
What's the deal with PEP3 only being released to the 'Authorized'.
Before I decided to buy a pronto, I downloaded PEP2. Having access to PEP2 was the deal maker for me. Without getting my hands on PEP2, the Pronto would have been just another universal remote, and I probably would have looked elsewhere.
I ended up getting myself a 9600, and it wasn't cheap. I paid a retail price. Should paying those amounts not entitle Pronto owners to the accompanying software?
When PEP3 is released, and I bought a second Pronto, would PEP3 come as part of the package? If not, why not?
The remote control world is already being taken over by mobile phones and iPads etc (I know, because I been checking out the iPad possibilities myself). If Philips go down the authorized only route, in a declining market, aren't they potentially going to lose customers/business.
Reading further up the thread, you'll already have seen my thoughts. I am concerned that new software that works on my 9400 is not available to me. I could understand if they had a version of software specific to new hardware. I really do hope some here with a good relationship with philips can get a positive result for those of us fans. I bet at least some of the community work here must have helped philips with their product functions. Also, didn't the pronto grow as a result of software designed for internal use getting out to the enthusiasts?
The earlier comments of ipad/ipod etc made very good points. Most people find the idea of paying 40 pounds/60 dollars for a remote excessive (and talk about the harmony as if it were an extravagance - I hate that web interface rubbish so much - I want to edit my config offline on my pc). With ipod/ipad - manufacturers have a good platform with a robust os on which they just need to create an appropriate app. This could apply to android as well (more so, since manufacturers will have more flexibility with being able to create custom hardware to go with base os). I like the look of the savant device that merges the ipod touch with the thing that all the software solutions miss - hard buttons. Hard buttons make a huge difference. Looking at the savant device it at least has close to the number of hard buttons on my pronto pro 9400. Not having to look at the screen for things like volume, mute etc makes a huge difference (I do wish number hard buttons were there as well though). As an aside I'm typing this while on a train on my blackberry bold 9700 - and finding it quite easy thanks to the tactile feedback hard keys give you. The lack of wheel isn't an issue on the savant device since the gesture functions on screen could more than make up for it.
Another advantage is that the ipod/ipad and possibly even android give users an interface many are already comfortable with. It may well fit quite well for a custom installer to use ipads/ipods for in wall interfaces - maybe some proprietary interfaces are involved, but the base is there. Think of it this way - you show the customer a pronto/amx etc system (fair enough you may have an awesome interface), but it's a lot easier to get them to like it when they think "it's just like my ipod [to use]".
I do have a feeling the pronto may get sidelined over time though - which I'm quite sad about.
I was speaking to an installer the other day. He showed me round the Opus setup he had in the shop. A nice wall mount display, of which I was given a quick tour. After about 10 minutes he pulled out his iPhone, with Opus on-board. This is the way it is going, like it, or not.
If only Philips made mobile phones. Better still, how about a 'ProntoPad'.
I like the look of the savant device that merges the ipod touch with the thing that all the software solutions miss - hard buttons. Hard buttons make a huge difference. Looking at the savant device it at least has close to the number of hard buttons on my pronto pro 9400. Not having to look at the screen for things like volume, mute etc makes a huge difference.
You could get one of these for $500 + iPad...pretty cool.
I think all you guys worrying about getting PEP3 are worrying about nothing. Wait until it is released and then see if it is only limited to the "Authorized" dealers. I think their announcement just states "Authorized" dealers as a way to show their positioning in the custom installer market. Did you do the online PEP training and get access to the module downloads? I'll bet that will make you part of the "Authorized" list as well.
Why on earth would Philips want to continue to make a PEP2 & PEP3 for different audiences? I don't see it happening.
On September 27, 2010 at 13:44, Jon Welfringer said...
I think all you guys worrying about getting PEP3 are worrying about nothing. Wait until it is released and then see if it is only limited to the "Authorized" dealers. I think their announcement just states "Authorized" dealers as a way to show their positioning in the custom installer market. Did you do the online PEP training and get access to the module downloads? I'll bet that will make you part of the "Authorized" list as well.
Why on earth would Philips want to continue to make a PEP2 & PEP3 for different audiences? I don't see it happening.
Certainly hope you're right and I'm worried over nothing.
It does seem that things are changing. Cutting out the DIYers will be a real shame.
Hmmm... I'm still a bit concerned. I wouldn't event mind having to pay a small amount for a new version of Prontoedit (reasonable amount - 20 pounds/30 dollar) as long as it was available to me and they had a no support direct - must get it through authorised dealer/installer (which I believe is pretty much the case).
Just let us get the items and play. Some enthusiasts out there may well create the next new new popular feature.
This is why I like the open source idea (in general) if a company stops providing something (e.g. even when you're prepared to pay) then at least you've got a way to carry on through the enthusiast community.
It does seem that things are changing. Cutting out the DIYers will be a real shame.
I still think you guys are worried about nothing. Is Pronto a DIY remote? Absolutely not and they would never make a statement that it is. They will never sell these remotes at a Best Buy or similar outlet - they are custom install items. Are there DIY people capable of installing their own? Of course! He even leaves the door open that you can easily get the software from your dealer. I would bet that also still includes everyone here that has taken the online tests and gained access to the download areas.
I didn't see anything new being said in the video that they haven't always said.
Jon is quite right. There is no plan afoot to cut out the DYIR contingent.
Philips has always indicated that their market is Custom Installers, but they also admit privately that the advanced DIYR's do add value to their (Philips') product and do respect and assist them.
Both Lyndel and I, DIYR's, have excellent working relationships with the Pronto team as I am sure others here do also.
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