Industry

Oracle Lighting Launches Custom Illuminated Logo Decals for Multiple Applications

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METAIRIE, LA (04.14.2021) – Oracle Lighting has announced the launch of the new custom illuminated logo decals. Easily installed/applied on cars, trucks, UTVs/ATVs, boats and other vehicles and now available for custom order at oraclelights.com/logos, customers can choose between 31 custom colors and create their own text or utilize their own graphics.

“We first created these decals for race team vehicles that we support so that they would really stand out during nighttime events, and they quickly opened a door to a part of our business that we didn’t even realize was there,” explained Justin Hartenstein, Oracle Lighting director of development. “Before we knew it, fans at these races began calling us asking how they could order them for themselves and their businesses. Now, whether you are a race team, marketing professional, or just an enthusiast who wants to stand out from the crowd, Oracle’s glowing logo panels are an easy way to add that custom attention-grabbing appearance to your vehicle.”

These less than 1mm thick semi-rigid panels can be made in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes suited to anyone’s precise details. Expected lifetime is 2,500 hours of use under normal operating conditions. They are designed to stand up to most abuse but if used in motorsports or other extreme applications the overall lifespan may be reduced. Custom-made to order, these panels are constructed from an electroluminescent material which glows softly at night. Installed with adhesive tape, each panel comes with a small inverter box which simply connects to 12V power.

“The inverter box conveniently has a switch to turn the panel on and off,” Hartenstein continued. “Installation is very simple; these have an adhesive backing like a normal decal and simply stick in place. Applications are nearly endless… we’ve even had a manufacturer contact us to make logos for an autonomous marine vessel.”

Louisiana-based Oracle Lighting has been designing innovative lighting products and technologies for the automotive/12Volt, powersports, motorcycle, and marine markets since 1999. Oracle’s philosophy is this: in today’s world of fly-by-night vendors, we think it is important to partner with businesses that you can trust to be there for you today, tomorrow, and for years to come.

For more information on Oracle Lighting and its full product line, visit www.oraclelights.com, call (800) 407-5776, or email info@oraclelights.com

DOW Technologies Wins 8 Quest For Quality Awards

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TAMPA, FL (04.14.2021) – DOW Technologies was recently awarded eight Quest for Quality Awards in CE Pro’s 11th annual competition. In the first year DOW won any Quest for Quality Awards, it received an award in each of the available categories. 

CE Pro’s Quest for Quality Awards recognize the services offered by distributors and manufacturers that supply custom integrators. The eight distributor categories were voted on by CE Pro’s readers; this year saw a record-breaking 14,550 votes cast. The Awards are open to distributors across the nation.

DOW Technologies won a first place Platinum Award for the Best Dealer Programs/Incentives, Best COVID-19 Response, and Best Virtual Trade Show/Conference Presence categories. DOW won Gold Awards for the Best Technical Support, Best Shipping Policies, Best Website, and Best Training Programs categories. In the Best Customer Service category, DOW was awarded the Silver Award.

“I believe this is a testament to our sales team and the dedication of our whole company to provide our customers the best experience,” stated senior vice president Dave Elkin. “The tremendous support we received this year is overwhelming. We are thankful for all of our loyal dealers.”

“We are truly honored at receiving eight awards in this year’s Quest for Quality,” stated president & ceo John Yodzis. “These awards recognize the effort we put in as an organization to help our dealers succeed. As we continue to expand into new regions, we can’t rest on what we’ve achieved, but instead continue to listen to our customers’ needs and provide top level customer service.”

To learn more about DOW Technologies, visit www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1-800-627-2900. To read more about the CE Pro Quest for Quality Awards 2021, click here. 

Mobile Solutions Introduces GT Template Set

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TEMPE, AZ (04.13.2021) – Mobile Solutions has announced the newest addition to the Smart Template family, the GT Template Set. Made of their signature shatter-resistant PVC, this numbered, nine piece nested set is fully compatible with their Smart Frame System (SFS) and features a new innovation for their templates: the Template Assembly Calibration (TAC) system.

“The TAC system allows for the pieces of the outermost template to be removed so that multiple template pieces can be fabricated, but all line up perfectly when reassembled in the final installation” commented Bryan Schmitt, founder and president of Mobile Solutions. “That feature makes for a virtually infinite number of design combinations, as well as hiding mounting hardware or inserting accent pieces that mimic a section of the template’s overall shape.”

Schmitt and his team at Mobile Solutions designed and engineered the GT Template Set to offer an aggressive, yet classy design that could work in multiple applications such as a trim panel for trunk-mounted equipment, rear deck trim panel or even sections of the template as a left and right door or trim panel baffle and grille. A YouTube video at the Mobile Solutions channel shows the hands-on implementation of the template set by Mark at Car Audio Fabrication (CAF).

To do an advance product launch of the GT Template Set to an audience of social media fans, on March 24, 2021 Schmitt and Mark did a live one hour Facebook training and Q&A session. This was also streamed to both Mobile Solutions and CAF YouTube channels. The top secret live feed had over 300 live attendees the whole time with virtually no advance notice, making this one of the most well-attended one hour virtual trainings of the past year since the Pandemic hit in March 2020.  The training has since had over 3000 views and counting. It just furthers the importance of the thirst for more training using real-time hands-on demonstrations.

GT Template Set Features:

  • Nine, nested shatter-resistant and numbered PVC template pieces with 3/16” gapping
  • Precision-machined alignment lines and holes
  • Fully compatible with SFS Axis Shape Creator System (sold separately)
  • New Template Assembly Calibration (TAC) allows for the outermost pieces to be used as one assembly or in separate pieces for different design aesthetics
  • Knobs and hardware for TAC system included!

GT Template Set Applications:

  • Designed for simple press grille production
  • Trunk-mounted trim panels (subwoofer enclosure, amp rack cover, power distribution panel, etc.)
  • Rear shelf trim panels or speaker grilles
  • Left and right side door speaker baffles and grilles
  • Use pieces of the template to transition a shape from two separate panels (such as front door to rear side panel) in custom hot rod and restomod builds

Priced at $129, this template set is a must have item for any fabricator.

Visit www.mobilesolutions-usa.com for more.

ORCA Ships Terminal-Sized, 200-Watt Subwoofer Amplifier

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CAMARILLO, CA (04.13.2021) – Orca Design and Manufacturing announced it is shipping the Gladen ATM, a single-channel power amplifier that is designed to fit within a subwoofer enclosure. The ATM (Active Terminal Module) replaces the enclosure’s standard 78mm circular speaker terminal with a 200-watt mono amplifier, measuring just under five inches deep and available in two- or four-ohm versions. This innovative design allows retailers to internally amplify any pre-built or custom sub enclosure and offer a versatile, active low-end solution.

The control surface of the Gladen ATM features a high-quality Molex® connector for power, ground and audio inputs, alongside a button that selects between low- and speaker-level input. The ATM automatically detects signal input to turn it on and off. The built-in, low-pass filter lets the installer match the output of the ATM to the subwoofer and enclosure with variable volume and crossover adjustment between 50 and 120Hz. An optional subwoofer volume control (Model RTC-2; sold separately) can be plugged into the ATM and mounted within the driver’s reach.

“In light of the drastic product shortages, retailers are struggling to build personalized audio experiences for their customers,” said Nalaka Adikari, sales director for Orca. “Bass is usually the first audio enhancement customers look for, and the ATM lets retailers bring life and vibrancy to factory audio playback by adding low end with a single component that can be removed when storage space is needed.”

Both versions of the Gladen ATM (GA-ATM2Ohm and GA-ATM4Ohm) have a suggested retail price of $349.

Visit orcadesign.com for more.

Term-LAB / Term-PRO at Knowledgefest Orlando

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ORLANDO, FL (04.12.2021) – Term-LAB / Term-PRO will be exhibiting at the KnowledgeFest Orlando event June 25-27, 2021. Stop by the booth and learn how to use the Term-PRO Enclosure Design Software to design low-frequency loudspeaker enclosures and the Term-LAB SPL Meter to analyze sound-related measurements.

KnowledgeFest includes over 27 educational workshops, 70 manufacturer trainings, great networking opportunities and a trade show featuring manufacturer and benefit-provider exhibits. Talk one-on-one with the people you do business with (or should be!).

Every major manufacturer and many specialty manufacturers will be there. Their training sessions can help you become a product and installation expert in your market. There’s specialized training for owners/managers, sales professionals and installation techs; helping you keep your business on the cutting edge of profitability.

June 25-27, 2021
Orange County Convention Center
9800 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819

Registration Link: www.knowledgefest.org

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran, or a relative newcomer to mobile electronics, KnowledgeFest has something for you. Many social activities after hours to bring FUN to the mix.  

Midwest Distributor Announces They Have Head Units

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LINCOLN, NE (04.12.2021) – In uncertain times as our industry struggles with head units shortages, ROBIDOUX DISTRIBUTING is Lincoln, NE is proud to say THEY HAVE PRODUCT TO SELL!

“Our rep Jeff Budin did a great job of keeping us updated on all the news coming out of China, so we took the proper measures to stock up as heavy as we could on all the head units we could get our hands on,” stated ROBIDOUX president Jamie Robidoux. “I’m happy to say we have options for dealers whether its Android Auto , CarPlay, Double DIN , or even a basic single DIN Mechless, we have options available from either a MAP protected line like Nakamichi or others like SoundStream, PPI, or Power Acoustik.”

ROBIDOUX INC. sales rep Maxwell Mayer (middle) flanked by Jamie Robidoux, president, and ROCK-N-REV SALES Jeff Budin holding plenty of head unit options and ready to write orders.

Dealers in the MINK states are taking note of the outstanding services ROBIDOUX provides as stated here by local dealer Mean Machine Cycle Parts. “ The guys over at Robidoux are the real deal! Super knowledgeable, courteous, and always eager to help out! We get all of our DIAMOND AUDIO there and couldn’t be anymore happy. Our sales guy Max is the Man!” commented ROBB BOGGS, owner.

For more information on current head unit inventory status, contact ROBIDOUX DISTRIBUTING at customerservice@robidouxinc.com OR call 531-500-5785

IASCA Worldwide Sets Event Plans for 2021

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EAST WENATCHEE, WA (04.09.2021) – With COVID-19 restrictions being lessened in some states IASCA Worldwide is making plans to begin the organization’s 2021 event schedule.

Travis Chin is ready to roll IASCA events in 2021.

Travis Chin stated for IASCA, “Recently, we participated with SQOLOGY at their Lonestar SQ Showdown event at the Frisco, TX Car Toys location. That was a couple weeks ago, and it had a much larger than expected turnout. Other than that, our schedule of events has been limited and they have been low-key. In some cases, we would have events set up and ready and just hope that they weren’t canceled or would create a problem in a community.”

This coming weekend, ISACA has 5 events taking place. Saturday April 10: SQ in Lacey, WA3X World Record SPL event in Savannah, GA3X SQ and SPL in Fresno, CA and SQ in Rowlette, TX.

On Sunday April 11th a Car Stereo Show and SQ Competition is set at OTS Mobile Audio in Oldsmar, FL. During a call to the store a sales staff member said, “There is a buzz about the event and we are looking forward to an exciting event.”

“There is excitement building up as competitors want to get back to participating in shows and we are looking to a lot of events this summer as long as COVID-19 restrictions allow. All points and memberships from 2020 will carry over into 2021 since we did not have a 2020 North America Championship,” Chin added.

Recently, TRU Technologies signed on as an industry member as well as more retailers which are listed in the retailer section of our website. The website also has all the events listed as well as results from past events and current rulebooks.

Concluding Chin related, “Maybe the flip has switched on COVID-19 restrictions as it seems like a lot of shows are getting set up.”

Visit iasca.com for more.

SEMA Show Excitement Grows as May Registration Approaches

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (04.09.2021) – With registration for the 2021 SEMA Show less than 30 days away, specialty-equipment businesses are eager to reconnect in person at the world’s leading celebration of innovation, ingenuity, and passion for automobiles.

Not only are companies ready to get down to business, Las Vegas is primed for the return of what will be one of the most exciting Shows in the event’s 50-plus year history. Positive news has been reported from activities throughout Las Vegas, such as the return of on-stage shows with in-person fans, casino-floor occupancy limits at up to 50%, and the Vegas Golden Knights hosting thousands of fans at T-Mobile Arena on game nights.

Earlier this year, the Las Vegas Convention Center completed construction of a brand new 1.4-million square-foot hall, as well as a high-speed underground transportation system that will make navigating the SEMA Show easier than ever. Recently, MGM Resorts also reaffirmed its commitment to help businesses get back to in-person interactions by announcing details of a comprehensive plan to host groups at its facility.

In addition to Las Vegas businesses showing signs of recovery, analysts see Las Vegas returning faster and stronger than expected, according to the latest report from the Las Vegas Review Journal.

Specialty-equipment companies have persevered through the past year, with some thriving beyond expectations. To support that dedication and passion to succeed, the Show will help close the distance between the people who push the industry forward that have been separated by necessity. Show management has held several onsite meetings with partners throughout the city over the past few months and continues to prepare for an extraordinary event.

“We’re starting to see meetings return to Las Vegas, and excitement is building as the events industry is getting back to business,” said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. “The anticipation from the people we talk to in Las Vegas who can’t wait for the Show’s return is phenomenal, and we can’t wait to see it all come together in November.”

The 2021 SEMA Show is about seven months away, and Show management continues to work closely with the convention center authorities and the state of Nevada as trends continue to move in a positive direction.

Key SEMA Show Dates

  • The Exhibitor Services Manual (ESM) will be live in May. The ESM contains all of the forms and applications required to prepare for the Show: feature vehicles, new products, booth vehicles, celebrity appearances, etc.
  • Deadline to submit Exhibit Space Rental Application and deposit is May 7.
  • SEMA Show Space Selection: June 7, 2021-June 23, 2021.

Reserve booth space for the 2021 SEMA Show at www.SEMAshow.com/exhibitor.

For complete information about the 2021 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com.

Written by Jason Catull for sema.org

SEMA: New Research Looks at Shifting U.S. Vehicle Landscape and Hottest Models for the Aftermarket

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DIAMOND BAR, CA (04.08.2021) – Just about any vehicle on the road can be modified with aftermarket parts. However, with more than 281 million vehicles currently on the road in the United States, knowing where the greatest opportunities for customization are can be challenging. In the new “SEMA Vehicle Landscape Report,” the SEMA Market Research team looks at changes in the vehicle landscape, where the greatest opportunities are for the aftermarket industry and trends that may impact businesses.

What does the current vehicle landscape look like? What are the latest trends? Where is the opportunity for the specialty-equipment industry moving forward? The SEMA report answers these questions and more. Readers will find:

  • An overview of the current vehicles on the road in the United States today.
  • New light-vehicle sales and powertrain projections.
  • The hottest models for the specialty-equipment industry.
  • The latest vehicle trends, including electrification and advanced vehicle technology.

Download the new 2021 SEMA Vehicle Landscape Report today at www.sema.org/research and register here for the upcoming webinar “Vehicle Landscape: Which Cars and Trucks are Hot?,” as the SEMA Market Research team provides an in-depth overview of the report and answers questions.

Written by Kyle Cheng for sema.org

CTA Tech Week to Bring Together Innovators and Policymakers to Address Future of Tech Policy

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ARLINGTON, VA (04.08.2021) - The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) will convene top government officials, technology leaders, entrepreneurs and policy experts to explore the relationship between innovation and public policies, while addressing major issues impacting U.S. competitiveness during CTA’s Tech Week, a digital event on April 14 and 15.

At CTA’s Tech Week, which consists of Innovation Policy Summit and Lobby Day, top innovators and policymakers will tackle top tech issues, including digital health, broadband access, self-driving vehicles, online speech, cybersecurity, trade and more. New this year, CTA will host Clubhouse chats on topics including digital health, Section 230 and autonomous transportation. CTA will also announce this year’s Digital Patriots, recognizing elected officials who champion policies and practices vital to innovation in consumer technology.

“We are excited to bring innovators and government officials together to discuss the future of U.S. tech policy,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CTA. “CTA and its members work closely with lawmakers to ensure streamlined policies and regulations that foster innovation. Over the last year especially, we have seen America’s technology companies step up to provide solutions for remote work, online education, telemedicine and more. America’s economic competitiveness and status as a global tech leader depend on smart pro-innovation policies.”

CTA Tech Week events include:

  • What Does the Future Hold for Section 230 and Online Speech? with U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR)
  • Digital Health and Emerging Technologies with Jeffrey Shuren, director, Center for Devices and Radiological Health at the Food and Drug Administration
  • How Can Policymakers Unlock the Transformative Power of Self-Driving Vehicles? with Robert Hampshire, acting assistant secretary for research and technology, U.S. Department of Transportation and Melissa Froelich, director of government relations, Aurora
  • New White House, New Congress…New Trade Policy? with Jeff Werner, vice president of corporate and government affairs, Panasonic USA
  • Securing our Digital Future with Marjorie Dickman, chief government affairs and public policy officer, Blackberry
  • Connectivity in America with Courtney Reinhard, vice president of federal government relations, Verizon and John Godfrey, senior vice president of public policy, Samsung Electronics America

Visit www.cta.tech/Events/Tech-Week for more.