INTRODUCTION
Canadian-based integrator Northern AV was brought on by Boston Pizza in Midland, Ontario to complete the installation of a video over IP solution that would drive the entertainment system in this restaurant & sports bar chain.
PureLink’s VPX IP Management Software provides a browser-based user interface giving users access to the program on virtually any wireless device. VPX offers advanced system tools that simplify setup, operation, and management including automatic discovery of VIP-200 and VIP-300
transmitter and receiver modules, preset and automation schedule creation, external control API, detailed diagnostic reporting, and more.
THE COMPANY
With over 380 locations nationwide, Boston Pizza is Canada’s #1 casual dining brand. Annually, Boston Pizza serves more than 40 million guests, and in 2014 achieved system-wide sales that surpassed $1 billion.
First established in Edmonton, Alberta in 1964, Boston Pizza has offered two guest experiences under one roof – a family-friendly casual dining restaurant and a separate sports bar with a lively atmosphere. Boston Pizza has been recognized as one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies since 1994, achieving Platinum Member status since 2001.
THE CHALLENGE
Andy Staffen, owner and operator of Boston Pizza Midland, wanted to lead his location with the most effective entertainment system possible. With multiple sources, a 2×4 video wall, as well as a variety of displays located around the restaurant, Staffen needed a comprehensive yet easily managed A/V distribution system. Video wall processing and device management, all through a wireless control interface, were key requirements for the new system.
THE SOLUTION
PureLink’s VPX IP Management Software provides a browser-based user interface giving users access to the program on virtually any wireless device. VPX offers advanced system tools that simplify setup, operation, and management including automatic discovery of VIP-200 and VIP-300 transmitter and receiver modules, preset and automation schedule creation, external control API, detailed diagnostic reporting, and more.
“What was a major value for Boston Pizza is the WallMaster plugin for VPX,” said Dennis Madison, owner of Northern AV. “My first time using this powerful tool, it took only minutes to design my video wall, create layouts, and assign different looks to presets,” said Madison. “It was easy, works perfectly, and the client is ecstatic they have achieved exactly what they wanted,” he added. PureLink provided a complete A/V distribution solution that has kept everyone pleased, Madison concluded.
PureLink’s PureStream line of video over IP solutions was selected to provide maximum flexibility. The VIP300H-U distribution system together with the VPX IP Management Software with WallMasterTM provided A/V distribution throughout the facility, as well as advanced video wall processing and management. PureLink’s VIP-NET-4804-1G managed network switch, purpose designed for PureStream video over IP systems, was also at the core of the system’s design.
“We needed a video wall where we could change the layout at any time with the press of a button,” said Staffen. “Being able to use an iPad and easily see the status of our displays and instantly change sources was exactly what we were looking for. We just simply could not find [this type of] solution from anyone else but PureLink,” he added.
