It’s become common knowledge that technology keeps getting smaller while increasing in capabilities. Smart phones are capable of all the things that use to fill up an entire workspace – calendar, dictionary, notebook, camera, email, map, calculator and clock.

Oh yeah, it’s also a phone.

Likewise, the AV industry is continually changing. One thing we’ve noticed is equipment that once required 4U of rack space moved to 2U, then 1U. That one piece of equipment may also be able to perform multiple tasks like switching, camera control and graphics mixing.

The practical result of this movement to more capabilities with less space is we can now move away from AV racks and special rooms to house them. There are many ways to hide equipment right near the display it services. Chief has been working all along to meet these changing realities.

We’re now combining forces with Middle Atlantic to provide even more storage capabilities, all safely enclosed in Chief’s Proximity® storage solutions.

“Our focus is storage solutions and how we can make it easier while virtually blending into the environment,” said Dorian Haro, Chief Product Manager. “Lever Lock™ plates from Middle Atlantic help us to achieve that goal. By adding this feature to our existing in-wall boxes, we’re fulfilling our commitment to continuously improve AV storage solutions.”

And with new Forward accessories for small device mounting that work seamlessly with Lever Lock, installation has become easier and faster. No more zip ties or dropped screws! Be sure to visit Middle Atlantic to learn more about the Forward family and how Lever Lock achieves tool free cable management and small device mounting.

Chief’s PAC525, PAC526, and PAC527L adjustable depth in-wall storage boxes with Lever Lock have all become part of the Proximity storage solutions. Chief’s in-wall boxes feature break away edges that make them compatible with both standard 3.5” studs and 2.5” studs so installers can easily accommodate any stud depth on site.

In the in-wall boxes, the multi-level, multi-sectioned Lever Lock plates make it easier to arrange components in all three dimensions of the storage space. For instance, installers can hide power bricks behind the backplane with equipment mounted to the front. This also helps installers work around difficult port locations on AV equipment. The in-wall box can be shipped to the general contractor or electrical contractor ahead of time while integration of the Lever Lock plate with components and cabling can be completed before getting to the worksite. Beyond that, bundles are available with box, flange and cover combinations in black or white so the pieces arrive when they are needed for new building projects.

In addition to new PAC527L part numbers, the new PACL1 Lever Lock plate will be available as an accessory for all PAC525 In-wall Storage Boxes and the new PACL2 for all PAC526. The PACL2 will ship with all PAC527L In-Wall Storage Boxes beginning in November. Existing PAC525, PAC526 and PAC527 In-Wall Storage Boxes can also be retrofitted with the PACL1 and PACL2 Lever Lock plates respectively.

PACL1 and PACL2

The Proximity in-wall boxes can be ordered with high-performance, isolated ground outlets featuring non-sacrificial multi-stage filtration and surge protection to improve reliability and functionality of connected equipment. With AV storage, integrators can sell the value of surge protection over the regular electrical outlet. If IP controlled power outlets are required, you can order Middle Atlantic power as an alternative option, like the RLNK-215.

If you are looking for other options for storage to hide components without having to open up the wall, we have you covered. The CSPR Component Storage Panel has more than 160 square inches of secure attachment area for AV equipment on the wall behind the mount. A handle provides easy access without removing the display. The CSPH Under-Table Component Storage Panel has over 350 square inches of secure attachment area for installing equipment under conference room tables and desks. It hinges to 90 degrees for ease of access to components. It can also be broken into thirds in case less space is required. If that’s the case you can use the CSPHK bracket kit to mount the additional smaller sections.

Still too big? We have smaller storage solutions with the CSMP9x12 and CSSMP15x10 component storage panels. The CSMP9x12 offers great flexibility by allowing you to use more than one behind a single display. The slide-out feature and Lever Lock plate of the CSSMP15x10 lets you quickly access the components without having to pull the display away from the wall.

Chief’s Proximity storage solutions are ideal for standardizing the deployment of AV component configurations across large rollouts.

As AV needs and equipment continue to change, Chief will continue to listen to your feedback to determine the best way to adapt to fit your needs. We look forward to hearing from you.