The new firmware and software release allows dealers to integrate Sonos multi-room audio systems “quickly and easily” into a CI project. Newly announced by AWE Europe – the exclusive UK distributor for the Philips Pronto two-way controller range – the Sonos module is available within the latest PEP2.4 (ProntoEdit Professional) software, which also features an iPhone-style user interface capability.
The new Sonos module results from enhanced UPnP (Universal Plug and Play)/DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) compatibility within PEP2.4. In addition to an improved user interface experience, PEP2.4 also features a raft of other enhancements, including: re-sizeable and dockable windows; display and editing of multiple pages on a single screen; re-usable macros; rotary wheel enhancements; and improved font selection.
PEP2.4 can be used to configure the complete Pronto family of two-way, programmable touch-screen panels: the Pronto TSU9300, TSU9400, TSU9600 and TSU9800.
“Sonos systems can now be brought under the control of a Pronto system without the need for any special hardware, additional PCs or the use of the proprietary Sonos controller,” commented Stuart Tickle, managing director of AWE Europe. “The module simply needs to be dragged and dropped into a project when programming. Because of the popularity of Sonos, this is a major breakthrough for dealers enabling them to provide a single controller in rooms where system control is also needed. It will help them add integration value to more projects using both Pronto and Sonos. It’s what the market has been asking for, and we’re delighted that we can now deliver that solution.”
Considering the wider prospects for 2010, Philips Pronto marketing manager Rudy Musschebroeck told IE Residential: “We premiered a new Sonos module at CES 2010 in Las Vegas in early January, and the reactions have been overwhelming. We look forward to the upcoming ISE to introduce all of our new Prontoscript modules and to share our 2010 product plans with our European dealer base. We have some exciting new products coming up this year, which will enable our installers to expand Pronto’s leadership position in the residential market and grow further into the commercial segment.”
