Recent Work

Joe will oversee all global sales activity in this newly formed position, with all regional sales leaders reporting to him directly

CINCINNATI, November 10, 2020 — GatesAir, a global leader in wireless, over-the-air content delivery solutions for TV and radio, announces the promotion of Joe Mack to Chief Revenue Officer (CRO), effective immediately. Joe will take ownership of global sales activity in his new role, with all regional sales leaders across APAC, CALA, EMEA and North America reporting to him. Joe will continue to report to GatesAir CEO Bruce D. Swail.

A 35-year broadcast industry veteran, Joe has taken on roles of increasing responsibility over his 30 years at Harris Corporation and GatesAir. He was promoted to Vice President of Sales, Americas upon the formation of GatesAir in 2014, following several successful leadership roles at Harris Corporation’s Broadcast Communications Division. In this role, Joe was responsible for all US spectrum repack sales efforts, which established GatesAir as the undisputed market share leader for broadcast transmission.

Joe initially came to Harris through the acquisition of Midwest Communication in 1990. Prior to joining Midwest and Harris, Joe specialized in the development of instant news production and campaigned satellite flyaway terminals around the world for major global broadcasting networks, including BBC, CTV, SABC, Hearst, CBS, ABC and NBC. His key early-career achievements include the Reagan-Gorbachev summit in Iceland, and the Tiananmen Square uprising in Beijing.

“Joe has demonstrated a sharp sense of relationship building and customer commitment over his decades at Harris and GatesAir, which has resulted in record sales levels for our radio and television transmission businesses,” said Swail. “Above all, he has proven to be an exceptional leader over his career, with a diverse background in sales, management and engineering that has contributed to his success. We are thrilled to welcome Joe to this important new executive leadership role.”

“I have had the pleasure of working with all current regional sales leaders at GatesAir over many years, and it’s an honor to now work and collaborate with them in a more direct manner as we sharpen our global go-to-market strategy,” said Mack. “Having worked directly within the transmission business for 30 years, this is a business I am intimately familiar with and understand on a worldwide scale. I look forward to leading GatesAir’s global sales initiatives and building a foundation for our future business success.”

About GatesAir  

GatesAir, Inc., a portfolio company of The Gores Group, provides complete solutions for over-the-air radio and television broadcasting, leveraging wireless spectrum to maximize performance for multichannel, mission-critical services. Powering over-the-air networks worldwide with unparalleled reliability for nearly 100 years, GatesAir’s turnkey solutions enable broadcasters to create, transport and transmit radio and TV content.  With customers in more than 185 countries, the company leads the industry in innovation and design breakthroughs, improving efficiency and reducing total cost of ownership with all products designed and assembled in the USA. Visit www.gatesair.com for more information, Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/gatesair, and follow us on Twitter at @GatesAir.

About The Gores Group

The Gores Group, founded in 1987 by Alec Gores, is a global investment firm focused on acquiring controlling interests in mature and growing businesses which can benefit from the firm’s operating experience and flexible capital base. The firm combines the operational expertise and detailed due diligence capabilities of a strategic buyer with the seasoned M&A team of a traditional financial buyer. Over its 30-year history, The Gores Group has become a leading investor having demonstrated a reliable track record of creating value in its portfolio companies alongside management. Headquartered in Los Angeles, The Gores Group maintains offices in Boulder, CO, and London. For more information, please visit http://www.gores.com.

USSI Global’s C-Band Mitigation Interference service will relocate affected operators to new frequencies and upgrade satellite infrastructure, clearing the way for new 5G mobile services

MELBOURNE, Florida, November 9, 2020 — USSI Global, a turnkey provider of customized network, broadcast and digital signage systems and services worldwide, has launched a new C-Band Mitigation Interference service for broadcast and cable networks affected by the forthcoming C-Band Transition. Similar to the recent TV spectrum repack in the United States, the FCC initiative will clear the lower 300MHz of the C-Band for 5G services, and reassign affected operators to the remaining 200MHz by 2025. The auction process begins December 8, with relocation deadlines in late 2021, 2023 and 2025.

USSI Global’s C-Band Mitigation Interference service provides a full range of project management services from site inspection through installation and commissioning, including modernization of all satellite systems and infrastructure. The plan includes a dedicated team of experienced RF and satellite engineers for each project, along with a managed services option that offloads network operation, monitoring and maintenance to USSI Global technicians. USSI Global will also offer a dedicated 24/7/365 call center to provide immediate response for troubleshooting and repairs.

“The C-Band spectrum is occupied by television and radio broadcasters, as well as cable networks, that use satellite networks for contribution and distribution,” said David S. Christiano, CEO and President, USSI Global. “Our C-Band Mitigation Interference service will guide operators through complex, time-sensitive transformations and complete system upgrades that optimize their satellite network infrastructure for the next generation. USSI Global brings together every project management and customer service element to ensure smooth transitions for our customers.”

Following full inspections of satellite facilities, USSI Global field engineers will manage all technical changes to the network infrastructure. In addition to upgrading existing antennas and repainting existing dishes, USSI Global will also provide and install new antennas, filters, IRDs and other components to modernize satellite networks, working with several suppliers to procure the best price and return on investment for each customer. USSI Global will also retune and repoint antennas in compliance with frequency changes, with all satellite services continuing uninterrupted during upgrades and transition processes.

USSI Global’s turnkey project management expertise will provide a “consistent level of service across all technical renovations, managed services and call center support,” according to Christiano. The ability to provide immediate response will substantially accelerate repairs and limit service disruptions, while USSI Global’s managed service layer will reduce operational and maintenance burdens for customers seeking more efficient in-house operations. USSI Global will additionally provide training and documentation to all customers, whether they are using USSI Global’s managed service layer or operating networks in-house.

About USSI Global

USSI Global has provided high-quality, customized network and digital media solutions around the globe for more than 35 years. As part of our turnkey project management initiatives, USSI Global recruits and manages a specialized network of local partners and employees to fulfill every project phase and customer need, from initial site planning through to systems integration, commissioning and post-sales support. Front and back office services including a global network of field engineers and service providers, and a 24/7 call center to manage warehousing, logistics and repairs. Our proven history of managing technically challenging and time-critical projects has resulted in USSI Global’s excellent reputation with customers operating in three core industries: Broadcast, Digital Signage, and Electronic Business and Consumer Solutions. Visit www.ussiglobal.com for more information.

MSolutions is the first AV test supplier to offer remote management and support services for diagnostics, certification, firmware updates and more in the cloud

Tel-Aviv, ISRAEL, November 9, 2020 — MSolutions, a leading supplier of test devices for commercial and residential AV environments, today becomes the first AV test supplier to join SyncPro’s CloudOS platform and offer remote management and support services in the cloud. SyncPro’s advanced cloud-based features will help commercial integrators and custom installers using MSolutions’ MS-TestPro device accelerate troubleshooting and certification on job sites, while centralizing device management processes for administrators.

SyncPro developed CloudOS as a multi-tenant SaaS platform for deploying, managing and monitoring collaboration spaces and devices. MSolutions will offer immediate CloudOS connectivity for MSTestPro users, allowing field technicians to immediately report progress as jobs advance toward completion. That includes uploading test and certification results for HDBaseT, HDMI and AV over IP systems, as well as DC Resistance – all of which the MSTestPro supports from one portable, modular device.

CloudOS connectivity will also invite stronger collaboration between colleagues. Field technicians working to solve a problem can share fault findings in the cloud, and quickly receive an accurate diagnosis and recommendation on how to fix the problem. Technicians can also certify links to provide evidence that AV systems are properly working upon leaving the job site.

Administrators benefit from direct access to every company-owned device through a cloud user interface. Administrators can monitor device usage through a centralized portal from any location, and trigger commands, access job reports, and update device firmware to ensure that users have the latest features and benefits. Cloud accessibility also reduces time spent executing service and support tasks that previously were handled via email or phone.

“As the first AV test company to support HDBaseT, HDMI and AV over IP from one device, we are now working to take the service and support layer to the next level,” said Eliran Toren, CEO, MSolutions. “Administrators can take control of every device in the field, while field technicians can quickly get the answers they need to problem-solve, and access files that will help to support their work while on the job.”

Toren adds that its partnership with SyncPro opens the door to many future possibilities, including a managed services offering that removes administrative responsibilities from customers.

“By partnering with SyncPro, MSolutions is bringing efficient cloud-based operations and benefits to their customers without the high costs of developing their own solution,” said Omer Brookstein, Co-founder and CEO at SyncPro. “MSolutions has been at the forefront of AV testing innovation for several years, and this partnership takes that innovation to a new level not yet seen in our industry. We are proud to welcome MSolutions as our latest CloudOS partner.”

About SyncPro

At SyncPro we develop CloudOS – a multi-vendor, multi-tenant SaaS platform for deploying, managing, and monitoring workplace IoT devices. Organizations today are more dependent on their corporate communications than ever before, and as a result, those systems are increasingly vital for business. As the boundaries of where we work and collaborate expand beyond the physical office, and the number of workplace IoT devices grows at an exponential pace, the challenge of managing and monitoring these systems is becoming more complex than ever before. CloudOS is the super-tool every IT and helpdesk team needs to easily and securely deploy, manage, and monitor all of the organization’s workplace IoT devices on one platform.

About MSolutions

Since 2016, MSolutions has developed state-of-the-art HDBaseT test, multimedia and switching solutions for leading enterprises and integrators in the Pro AV and government markets. The company designs and manufactures advanced, high-quality systems that make media networks based on HDBaseT easier to install, more stable, and more enjoyable for end users. The MSolutions team leverages extensive experience and expertise, having been directly involved in HDBaseT development, support and sales since the standard was introduced in 2010. For more information, visit www.m4sol.com and follow MSolutions on Twitter @m4sols.

Nearly 60-year old firm will represent Atlona’s residential AV businesses in two states, and will leverage Atlona’s innovations for both residential and light commercial installations

SAN JOSE, Calif., November 5, 2020 – Atlona, a Panduit company, has designated Associated Lighting Reps as its manufacturer’s representative for residential AV in Central California, Northern California and Northern Nevada, effective immediately. Associated Lighting Reps will work closely with dealers, specifiers and custom installers to support residential and light commercial AV projects.

Associated Lighting Reps Sales Representative Bob Foppiano said that their growing light commercial business is a result of their success in residential AV. Working with Atlona gives them a broad line of IP and circuit-based products to serve both areas, many of which are interchangeable between the two markets given Atlona’s engineering approach.

“We often win projects with smaller businesses that come out of a successful home AV installation,” said Foppiano. “A residential customer with a small office will hire us to build AV systems for their meeting space or boardroom. Working with Atlona means that we can support whole-home distributed AV, videoconferencing and collaboration from mostly a common product line. In residential specifically, we are particularly interested in the Opus line, which fills a specific need for matrixed switching in multiple rooms of home. And as AV over IP continues to grow in commercial and residential, we also see a lot of value in promoting the OmniStream family.”

Associated Lighting Reps’ will also work with Atlona on training and education initiatives, which is simplified through the proximity of its Oakland corporate office to Atlona’s San Jose headquarters. Associated Lighting Reps has three additional locations in Fresno, Sacramento and Reno, all of which include showrooms and/or training centers while ensuring they remain close to customers across their busiest regions.

“Associated Lighting Reps is a nearly 60-year old company with a strong reputation in serving the residential AV market,” said Jamey Swigert, Director of AV Sales and Business Development, Atlona. “They also bring strength and expertise on the commercial side, which makes them an ideal Atlona partner for light commercial projects where our switching, distribution and control projects continue to gain recognition and market share. Their customer-first philosophy is also a cultural fit for Atlona, and we look forward to building a strong collaborative partnership.”

About Associated Lighting Reps

Associated Lighting Representatives (ALR) opened for business in 1961 as a two person agency representing several small lighting manufacturers. In the 50-plus years since, ALR has grown to be one of the dominant sales agencies in the country, with over 100 employees, four offices and an enviable list of manufacturers. The company was founded upon the simple premise of providing the best possible service to its customers while conducting its business activities with the utmost integrity.  This philosophy has been with ALR throughout its years and remains the cornerstone of the employee-owned company’s culture today.

About Atlona

Atlona, a Panduit company, is a leading global manufacturer of AV over IP distribution, connectivity, and control solutions. The company designs and engineers innovative, award-winning products for a diverse range of residential and commercial AV and IT markets. Backed by an award-winning 10-year warranty, Atlona’s products are developed to enable our customers’ ability to connect and collaborate with simplicity. More information about Atlona is available at atlona.com.

About Panduit

Global connectivity leader Panduit Corp. creates innovative electrical and network infrastructure solutions for applications across the enterprise. Headquartered in Tinley Park, Ill. and operating in 112 worldwide locations, Panduit’s technology leadership and robust ecosystem help support, sustain, and empower business growth in a connected world. panduit.com

Seattle, WA and Cincinnati, OH – TEGNA Inc.’s (NYSE: TGNA) KONG-TV today announced it has partnered with GatesAir on the technological infrastructure for the launch of NextGen TV, also known as ATSC 3.0, in the Seattle-Tacoma, Washington market. Pending final FCC approvals, TEGNA’s independent station KONG-TVplans to begin NextGen TV broadcasts for KONG-TV and KING 5, the NBC affiliate in Seattle, in early December, with KONG-TV serving as the host, or lighthouse station.

“The transition to NextGen TV requires cooperation from all stakeholders as we begin shaping the future of local broadcast television in Seattle and across TEGNA markets,” said Kurt Rao, senior vice president and chief technology officer, TEGNA. “GatesAir has been a valued partner in this process, and we’re proud to work with their team to bring NextGen TV to our Seattle audience.”

“In addition to being one of the top media markets in the United States, the Seattle community has a rich history of innovation and entrepreneurialism,” said Jim Rose, president and general manager of KING 5 Media Group, which includes stations KING 5 and KONG-TV. “Seattle was a natural choice to be one of the early adopters of NextGen TV technology, and we look forward to its potential to create a more enriching experience for our viewers.”

GatesAir will supply its Maxiva ULXTE-30 liquid-cooled transmitter to support over-the-air transmission of the NextGen TV signal. The ULXTE-30 will be equipped with GatesAir’s Maxiva XTE exciter to power TEGNA’s NextGen TV broadcasts as part of the Seattle Lighthouse initiative. GatesAir will also provide installation and commissioning support leading up to the early December launch.

“GatesAir’s high-efficiency transmitters are enablers for the many possibilities of NextGen TV content delivery, including 4K UHD television, immersive audio, and advanced emergency alerting,” said Bruce D. Swail, CEO, GatesAir. “In addition to supplying robust and reliable transmission technology, GatesAir’s experience with worldwide digital TV standards will help TEGNA maximize market coverage, support new digital services, and improve reception to mobile devices. Furthermore, this installation provides the core foundation for a future ATSC 3.0 SFN architecture that can strengthen TEGNA’s NextGen TV signal, and extend NextGen TV coverage throughout the broader Seattle-Tacoma region.”

In early November, KONG-TV will begin informing over-the-air (OTA) viewers in the Seattle-Tacoma market about the transition to NexGen TV and the need to rescan their televisions to continue to receive the station, regardless of whether they will receive a NextGen TV signal. No action will be needed for KONG-TV viewers who receive the station through a cable, satellite or streaming provider.

About TEGNA

TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA) is an innovative media company that serves the greater good of our communities. Across platforms, TEGNA tells empowering stories, conducts impactful investigations and delivers innovative marketing solutions. With 63 television stations in 51 U.S. markets, TEGNA is the largest owner of top 4 network affiliates in the top 25 markets among independent station groups, reaching approximately 39 percent of all television households nationwide. TEGNA also owns leading multicast networks True Crime Network and Quest. TEGNA Marketing Solutions (TMS) offers innovative solutions to help businesses reach consumers across television, digital and over-the-top (OTT) platforms, including Premion, TEGNA’s OTT advertising service. For more information, visit www.TEGNA.com.

About GatesAir 

GatesAir, Inc., a portfolio company of The Gores Group, provides complete solutions for over-the-air radio and television broadcasting, leveraging wireless spectrum to maximize performance for multichannel, mission-critical services. Powering over-the-air networks worldwide with unparalleled reliability for nearly 100 years, GatesAir’s turnkey solutions enable broadcasters to create, transport and transmit radio and TV content.  With customers in more than 185 countries, the company leads the industry in innovation and design breakthroughs, improving efficiency and reducing total cost of ownership with all products designed and assembled in the USA. Visit www.gatesair.com for more information, Like us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/gatesair, and follow us on Twitter at @GatesAir.