LAS VEGAS—Pliant Technologies is launching CrewCom Flex, which the company is calling the world’s first frameless matrix intercom system and the only complete matrix IP-based intercom solution that converges wired, wireless, and virtual voice communication on a standards-based AES67 / SMPTE ST 2110 backbone.

Making its official debut at the 2026 InfoComm Show (Booth N6151), Pliant Technologies reported that CrewCom Flex represents a major evolution in professional intercom technology, seamlessly uniting Pliant’s proven CrewCom wireless intercom system with powerful new wired panels, desktop panels, wired belt packs, and browser- or app-based virtual intercom panels that can be deployed in cloud-native or local infrastructures.

Designed for demanding productions and critical communication environments, CrewCom Flex delivers a complete communications ecosystem built for hybrid, remote, distributed, and highly scalable workflows.

“With our truly distributed architecture, there is finally an intercom system with no single point of failure,” says Gary Rosen, vice president of global sales for Pliant Technologies. “CrewCom Flex delivers lower total cost of ownership, reduced hardware inventory, simplified configuration, and effortless remote production workflows. It’s intercom with fewer limitations and far more possibilities.”

At the core of the CrewCom Flex platform is the new CrewCom Flex Main Panel [CKP-16] and Desktop Panel [CDP-16], designed to combine the familiarity of traditional hardware with the flexibility and advantages of frameless distributed IP communications.

Expansion panels can be added to create highly customizable user stations, while each panel and desktop panel functions as its own intelligent distributed matrix. Unlike traditional matrix-based intercom systems that rely on centralized hardware frames, CrewCom Flex utilizes a unique distributed processing architecture, eliminating single points of failure while enabling almost limitless scalability.

CrewCom Flex is standards-based with AES67 and SMPTE ST 2110 support for seamless AoIP and VoIP integration and includes ST 2022-7 redundancy compliance for maximum reliability in mission-critical applications.

During the show, Pliant is also introducing new CrewCom Flex BeltPacks, available in two-channel [CBP-22] and four-channel [CBP-24] versions. Designed for flexible production workflows, the beltpacks feature integrated microphones and speakers, allowing users an option to communicate without requiring a headset.

The platform also includes CrewCom Flex Virtual Intercom, a browser-based VoIP communications solution available in 4-, 8-, 16-, and 36-key virtual user configurations. Flex Virtual Intercom can operate as a standalone communications system or integrate seamlessly into larger CrewCom Flex deployments. Accessible from PCs, Macs, tablets, and mobile devices, it provides unprecedented deployment flexibility for remote and distributed production teams.

CrewCom Flex integrates directly with existing CrewCom wireless intercom systems through CrewCom’s 32x32 Dante/AES-67 Digital Audio Network Interface [CXD-32CF], which provides routing and expansion capabilities into and out of a CrewNet infrastructure using EtherCon copper and dual LC fiber connectivity.

System configuration and management are handled through the updated CrewWare 2.0 software platform, featuring intuitive drag-and-drop tools that simplify deployment, control, and management of all resources within a single unified ecosystem.

“There are virtually no limits on size, geography, or project type with CrewCom Flex,” adds Rosen. “Whether your workflow requires traditional panels, desktop panels, wireless users, virtual panels, site-to-site communications, or cloud-based deployments, every user experiences the same intuitive interface and streamlined communication workflow.”

More information about Pliant Technologies is available at www.plianttechnologies.com.

Professional intercoms provider Pliant Technologies will highlight its new CRP-C12 Compact Radio Pack at IBC2024, Sept. 13-17 at the RAI Amsterdam. The newly designed CRP-C12 compact Radio Pack (RP) was created specifically for use with any CrewCom or CrewCom CB2 system and is one of the industry’s smallest, fully featured, wireless professional intercom belt packs, measuring approximately 3.5 in. x 3.5 in (9 cm x 9 cm), while weighing just under 9 oz./ 255 g, Pliant said.

The new compact RP is available in 2.4GHz (worldwide) and 900MHz (where legal). It includes support for up to two assignable conferences with a simultaneous dual listen option. For further customization, it also includes two assignable function buttons that can be configured via a user profile for functions such as stage announce, call, or trigger of contact closures.

The CRP-C12 features an informational sunlight-readable backlit LCD display, along with easy-to-access, top-mounted A/B channel and talk buttons, dual-function buttons and easily accessible volume control. It also includes a compact 6-pin Male Mini XLR (TA6M) headset connector, a USB-C charging, firmware and pairing port, and is compatible with the Pliant PBT-RPC-66 6-Bay Drop-In Charger via an optional easy-to-use adapter. It uses the PBT-LIP-01 Lithium Polymer CrewCom Battery, the same used in current Pliant Radio Packs.

“With its compact, lightweight design, the CRP-C12 radio pack makes for an effortless, easy to operate, yet reliable solution for our customers,” says Gary Rosen, Vice President of Global Sales for Pliant Technologies. “When used with the CB2 system, it is a cost-effective and easy to deploy wireless intercom system. When paired with our CrewCom intercom system, users now have the option of four different radio packs.”

CrewCom is Pliant’s flagship expandable, networked-based wireless intercom system featuring seamless roaming. Pliant’s CrewCom CB2 is a full-duplex, installation-friendly, cost effective, and feature-packed wireless intercom system and is perfect for applications that do not require roaming or the full feature set of the larger CrewCom system. CrewCom and CrewCom CB2 are available in both 900MHz and 2.4GHz frequency options as well as 900MHz Oceania and 2.4GHz CE compliant models.

Pliant Technologies will be in Stand 10.C53.

LAS VEGAS—Pliant Technologies has announced that it will debut its new CRP-C12 Compact Radio Pack at the 2024 NAB Show on Booth C5310 between April 14 to 17.

The CRP-C12 is a newly designed compact Radio Pack (RP) that was created specifically for use with any CrewCom or CrewCom CB2 system. The company is billing the CRP-C12 as one of the industry’s smallest, fully featured professional radio pack, measuring approximately 3.5 in. x 3.5 in (9 cm x 9 cm), while weighing just under 9 oz./ 255 g. 

The new compact RP is available in all standard CrewCom frequency bands, including 900MHz (where applicable) and 2.4GHz (worldwide). 

Although small in stature (at least 25 percent smaller in size and 30 percent lighter than most beltpacks in use today), the CRP-C12 does not compromise on performance, as it is fully featured and includes support for up to two user-specific assignable conferences with a simultaneous dual-listen option, the company reported.

For further customization, it also includes two assignable function buttons that can be configured via a user profile for functions such as stage announce, call, or trigger of contact closures.

“With its compact, lightweight design, the CRP-C12 radio pack makes for an effortless, easy to operate, yet reliable solution for our customers,” says Gary Rosen, vice president of global sales for Pliant Technologies. “We are looking forward to presenting the CRP-C12 at NAB 2024 and giving our customers a first-hand look. The CRP-C12 is a great addition to the CrewCom radio pack lineup, as it offers another beneficial option for our customers.”

The CRP-C12 features an informational backlit LED display, along with easy-to-access, top-mounted A/B channel and talk buttons, dual-function buttons and easily accessible volume controls. It also includes a compact 6-pin Mini Female XLR (TA6F) headset connector, a USB-C charging and pairing port, and supports use of the current Pliant PBT-LIP-01 Lithium Polymer CrewCom Battery, the company explained. 

More information about Pliant Technologies is available at www.plianttechnologies.com.

AMSTERDAM—Professional wireless intercom solutions provider Pliant Technologies has announced that it will be showcasing its new CrewCom firmware and software update, v1.14 at IBC 2023 (Stand 10.C53). 

The latest update includes several enhancements to CrewCom’s extensive capabilities. These improvements include the support of two additional hardware devices, convenient new features and several key improvements to CrewWare control software to strengthen the user experience.

With the new v1.14 firmware update, CrewCom now supports the addition of the new IP-rated lineup of Radio Transceivers (RTs), and the current CrewCom CRP-12 series of Radio Packs (RPs). CrewWare v1.14 includes a unique UI display in the system diagram of CrewWare that automatically detects the new IP-rated RT hardware and shows when it is in use, as well as the indication of corresponding new model numbers in the detail and device list views, the company said.

“The ability to now chose from three unique Radio Packs with an existing CrewCom system adds a greater level of flexibility for existing and new customers,” said Gary Rosen, vice president of global sales for Pliant Technologies. “We look forward to sharing these important updates with this year’s IBC attendees.”

Specifically for the CRP-12 Radio Packs, (previously available only for the CB2 system), this new release also adds dual listen/single talk functionality, giving users the ability to simultaneously listen to two pre-selected conferences on a single volume belt pack while also allowing them to talk on either one of those conferences. Software UI additions and modifications have also been made to display the new Radio Pack support as well as to indicate dual listen/single talk capabilities, the company said. 

Using the new Ping Function feature, it is now possible to activate, from within the software, a device location function called Ping on both the RTs as well as the RPs. For the RT, when activating ping, both the top ping light and the mode LED on the bottom of the transceiver will blink to facilitate the location of a specific device. For the RP, when activated, ping will cause the backlight of the LCD display (or LEDs in the case of the CRP-12) to blink until deactivated by the operator. In order to facilitate the location of a specific RP or RT, ping indications remain latched on until the device has been found and the operator manually disables the function, Pliant Technologies reported. 

Additionally, the CrewWare system’s display of the Radio Transceiver now has the added ability to quickly see the status of each individual device’s antenna selection. It will now graphically indicate if it is in Dual (two antennas) or Single (Left or Right) modes.

The new CrewCom v1.14 firmware upgrade, which includes the new features and updates, is free of charge to all users and is available for direct download from the Pliant Technologies website.

More information about Pliant Technologies is available at www.plianttechnologies.com. 

AUBURN, Ala.—Pliant Technologies has released the latest firmware update for its CrewCom wireless intercom systems and devices, v1.8. Among the new features resulting from the update, according to Pliant, are refined communications for network devices and an enhanced user experience.

The 1.8 firmware update includes the new CrewWare management feature and a new two-level user rights feature. There is also improved battery monitoring for CrewCom devices and the updated firmware does not require users to power cycle remote devices when power cycling the system’s control unit. In addition, mixed band options on 900 MHz transceivers are now available and GPO relays can be used.

Pliant’s Gary Rosen, vice president of global sales, also says that the updated CrewCom is now fully compatible with the Pliant 6+6 Drop-In Charger.

CrewCom users can now download the v1.8 firmware for free. 

LAS VEGAS—Pliant Technologies has a new firmware for its CrewCom wireless intercom system that will be the headliner of its booth at the 2019 NAB Show. But there are a number of additional new accessories and updates for the CrewCom that will also be on display.

One part of the new firmware upgrade for the CrewCom models is the incorporation of new Oceania 900MHz models. Some of the other new technology that can be utilized with the updated CrewCom system includes the SmartBoom LITE headset, the Drop-In charger, Fiber Hub and FleXLR connector.

The SmartBoom LITE headset now features an improved dynamic noise-cancelling microphone with wider frequency response, increased sensitivity, an enhanced speaker with wider frequency response, reduced distortion and an updated foam ear pad.

With the Drop-In charger, six Radio Packs plus six additional batteries can be charged in the same device.

The CrewCom Fiber Hub, meanwhile, expands system capabilities by allowing up to eight fiber connections using standard SFP-based connectivity supplied with single mode fiber ports along with a single RJ-45 copper port to interface to existing CrewNet connections.

Also, the new FleXLR gender adapter addition gives users the flexibility to connect headsets to devices with non-matching four- and five-pin XLRs, such as CrewCom radio packs or control units, while also offering a choice of a larger range of compatible headsets.

Pliant Technologies will showcase all of these products and updates at its booth, C8548, during the NAB Show.

To register for the NAB Show, visit www.nabshow.com.

LAS VEGAS—Pliant Technologies is going to show its CrewCom wireless intercom system at the 2018 NAB Show. It features exceptional voice quality, high user counts, unparalleled range and scalability and user-friendly, full-duplex wireless radio packs. Users can use the 2.4GHz or 900MHz frequency bands, or mix the two.

CrewCom offers the flexibility of a matrix/party-line without the cost or limitations of either system. With its decentralized platform approach, CrewCom puts dependable, global RF coverage where it’s needed.

Pliant will also display its CrewWare intuitive graphical software, which enables comprehensive offline configuration, online control and real-time monitoring of system components.

CrewCom will also display CrewNet—which coordinates and transports system timing, audio conferences, signaling and control over a single mode Cat-5e or greater fiber network, further extending the wireless intercom range—and SmartBoom PRO professional headsets.

The 2018 NAB Show takes place in Las Vegas, April 9-12. Pliant Technologies, LLC will be in booth C7947. For more information, visit www.nabshow.com.

Read up on all of TVT's NAB Show Sneak Peeks and other 2018 NAB Show news here.