From the Editor: DigitalVision 2011

With Old Man Winter upon us, who wants to leave the house unless it's absolutely necessary? (Like for a paid job?) Fortunately for those of us with an opening in their schedule on January 19, DV's parent company, New Bay Media, is offering a perfect reason to stay warm beside your computer: DigitalVision 2011.

A free online technology showcase event, DigitalVision is sponsored by such industry leaders as Omneon, HP and ViewCast, and will feature moderated programming produced by myself and the editors of our sister publications, including Videography, TV Technology, Government Video, Pro Audio Review, Broadcast & Cable and Pro Sound News.

Subjects of primary interest to DV readers to be tackled in the new Technology Pavilion include DSLR production and optics, trends in postproduction, 3DTV production and post, and pro audio technique. Each discussion session will allow participants to pose (and answer) questions and interrogate experts on the subjects of their choice, with or publication editors serving as live chat moderators.

The virtual trade show exhibit hall will not only feature Omneon, HP and ViewCast — with plenty of information at at your fingertips — but numerous other companies showcasing their wares, including Snell, Wholer and Ensemble. But don't be fooled. This isn't just a rehash of company Web sites you can visit on your own after updating your Netflix cue. Each company "booth" will also have live, in-house experts ready to answer your probing questions, allowing users to not only investigate content at their own speed, but instantly get the help they need to best determine how the solution at hand may be right for their unique application. The interface also allows one to see the other attendees in the space, with easy-to-use options facilitating networking between participants.

I think those new to the virtual "trade show" experience will be surprised by DigitalVision's online approximation of a live event — sans the headaches of time-consuming travel, punitive parking fees and overpriced convention hall food. So save the date — January 19 — by registering today for free at www.digitalvision2011.com and I'll see you (or at least you avatar) in the networking lounge.

Now, if there was just a reasonable way for one to purchase an online martini.

David E. Williams
Editor-in-chief