The governing board of the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) of Arizona required an enhanced AV system in its boardroom to better serve and guide the county's 10 community colleges. The room features a high-end projection system, displays on the side walls, and a conference table on a dais with a microphone at each seat. There is ample space for an audience, and the AV system has overflow capabilities. 

Meetings are high profile, with the press in regular attendance and sessions streamed and broadcast by a local television station. The upgraded AV system is built on a DTP CrossPoint 4K matrix switcher and a variety of other Extron products that ensure seamless video presentation, clear sound, and optimized streaming. 

In the past, the quality of the audio along with the video were sub-par. E1 Audiovisual Technologies integrated the high-performance presentation system that facilitates local and remote communication. Completed in just six months, the room's high-performance AV switching system meets all of the community and broadcast requirements for the governing board, including support for a wide variety of mobile sources and facilitates access for local and remote participants. 

[Extron Products Are Ingredients of a Tasty AV Upgrade of St. Helena High's Culinary Classroom]

An Extron DTP CrossPoint 108 4K presentation matrix switcher provides switching, scaling, and routing of HDMI video and audio signals. Various other signal formats are converted for distribution over the twisted pair cable infrastructure. 

For example, Extron DSC 3G-HD A and DSC HD-3G A scalers facilitate signal transmission to the broadcast system and also provide audio embedding and de-embedding. Transmissions from this sub-system are sent to Extron DA4 12G HD-SDI distribution amplifiers to support the multiple wall plate connections. Relays on the DTP CrossPoint matrix switcher control lowering and raising of the projection screen. The matrix switcher and other AV system components are rack-mounted in the adjacent control room.

DTP R HWP 4K 231 D wall plate receivers support the monitors at the three council tables and the lectern. Mounted beneath each table and within the lectern are Extron DTP T USW 233 transmitters that provide local switching and signal extension to the matrix switcher. AV connectivity is through an Extron Cable Cubby 100 US AC cable enclosure. 

Additional resources include five NDI cameras, a Newtek Tricaster system, multiple computers, and a document camera and a Blu‑ray player at a portable lectern. To support the news media and facilitate televised events, HD-SDI connections are positioned at strategic locations throughout the room and within the adjacent control room. 

While presentations are usually managed from the control room, a presenter can choose to operate the system using the Extron TLP Pro 725M seven-inch touchpanel mounted on a side wall. It works in conjunction with the IP Link Pro control processor built into the DTP CrossPoint matrix switcher, streamlining the system.

A total of 26 gooseneck microphones are installed at the main council table and the two adjacent sub council tables. An additional gooseneck microphone is mounted on the lectern. Two lavalier, two handheld, and eight boundary microphones allow presenters to roam throughout the space and support audience participation.

[Selecting the Right Microphone for Your Conference Room]

The sound system is built around a DMP 128 Plus ProDSP processor, and the audio processors and the wireless receivers are connected via Dante audio, which is transported over MCCCD's network. A MediaPort 200 HDMI and Audio to USB scaling bridge offers exceptional video scaling and built-in audio processing tools that enhanced audio and video quality for a variety of sources.

From the first use of the upgraded system, the MCCCD AV support team appreciated that they are freed from having to respond to emergency calls late into the night. The rock-solid performance and reliability of DTP also eliminates the need for constant troubleshooting. The facility stands ready for when the MCCCD returns to live meetings. 

"We’ve worked with Extron on many projects and have always had excellent results," said Kurt Maddox, COO at E1 Audiovisual Technologies. "Extron products, technologies, and support are easy to work with and are the best in the business, making the whole experience a pleasure."

The What: HARMAN Professional Solutions introduced six products for meeting and lecture spaces outfitted with software-based conferencing platforms like Zoom and Teams. The debut includes four Precis PR-Series matrix switchers supporting up to eight sources and eight outputs; the Precis PR-WP-412 windowing processor, which is able to dynamically window up to four sources; and the UVC1-4K HDMI to USB 3.0 capture device.

Precis PR-Series Matrix Switchers: Ideal for affordable video routing in small to medium installations, the Precis PR-Series Matrix Switchers are available in four configurations: 4x2, 6x2, 4x4, and 8x8. All models include pixel-for-pixel video reproduction, fast switching, comprehensive EDID management, HDMI audio de-embedding, an open control API, and a simple-to-use web interface. The PR-0402 also supports auto-switching to provide touch-free video switching in small applications.

AMX PR-WP-412 Windowing Processor: The AMX PR-WP-412 is both versatile and cost-effective, combining a 4x1+1 windowing and a 4x2 seamless matrix switcher in a single, compact unit. Collaboration in meetings and distance learning can be enhanced and amplified with included technologies like truly seamless switching, 4K60 4:4:4 video quality, integrated audio breakaway, an open control API, and a simple-to-use web interface.

UVC1-4K Capture Device: The UVC1-4K capture device solves the immediate issue of PCs that lack HDMI or other video inputs. The UVC1-4K seamlessly delivers content from video cameras, document cameras, or other HDMI sources into software-based conferencing and streaming applications via the computer’s USB port. Features include 4K60 4:4:4 video input, HDMI and separate analog audio input, standard UVC interface and control, and USB 3.0 output up to 3840 x 2160p @ 30fps.

The Bottom Line: According to Harman, this suite of products ensures users are equipped to take advantage of the enhanced capabilities of the modern collaboration space. As well, the products simplify AV management for almost any application. 

The What: IHSE has launched its Draco tera flex series of matrix switches, designed to deliver increased performance with enhanced flexibility, modularity, scalability, and functionality. 

The What Else: The Draco tera flex family incorporates features from the Draco tera enterprise series of switches, including SNMPv3, LDAPS, multilingual on-screen display, encrypted communication for maximum security (for API, Draco tera configuration tool and Matrix Grid), and fast booting. Draco tera flex devices can now be interconnected in a decentralized matrix system using matrix grid technology.

Related: IHSE KVM Solution Streamlines Control for Berlin Brandenburg Airport

The Draco tera flex is available in three housing variants (1, 2, and 4U) with between 16 and 160 ports. All ports can be used flexibly as inputs or outputs. Eight-port expansion modules can be mixed between category and fiber optic types, with either 1Gb or 3Gb bandwidth; thus almost all customer-specific requirements can be achieved. The Draco tera flex is equipped with integrated power supply and redundant network connection as standard.

The new Draco tera flex matrix switch series offers a higher number of ports and performance at almost the same cost and replaces the existing Draco tera compact range; however, the eight-port compact switch will still be available as an entry-level variant for smaller KVM installations.

The Bottom Line: The modular structure permits simple interchange of individual components and prepares for future expansion. The Draco tera flex series is fully compatible with all Draco extenders and Draco tera KVM switches. It is well suited for cost-effective expansion of an existing Draco tera enterprise system or as an upgrade to existing Draco tera compact installations.

Freely-configurable 24- and 40-port models housed in 1U 19-inch racks will be available from the end of November 2020. Larger models in 2U and 4U racks with up to 160 ports will follow at the end of the year.

The What: Extron has announced the immediate availability of its XTP II CP HD 8K I/O Boards, which the company touts as the first pro AV 8K switching and distribution system. They accept HDMI 2.1 data rates up to 40.1 Gbps, enabling support of uncompressed 8K video with HDR. 

The What Else: These HDCP 2.3-compliant boards provide input equalization and output reclocking and feature connections for powering active, ultra-high-speed HDMI cables. The XTP II CP HD 8K I/O Boards leverage the 50 Gbps backplane of XTP II CrossPoint Series matrix switchers to deliver a future-proof AV infrastructure that supports convenient growth and upgrade without needing to replace equipment.

Related: Product Review: Extron SMP 351 Streaming Media Processor

“We are excited to be first to the market with uncompressed 8K switching and distribution products,” said Casey Hall, vice president of worldwide sales and marketing for Extron. “XTP II CrossPoint matrix switchers have always supported the high data rate of HDMI 2.1. Now with the introduction of our new 8K HDMI I/O boards, existing systems and new designs will now support 8K and other combinations of high resolutions, refresh rates, and color bit depths for unmatched performance.”

The Bottom Line: The XTP II CrossPoint Series matrix switchers provide high-performance routing of video, audio, bidirectional control, and Ethernet in a future-ready integrated solution. The 50 Gbps backplane accommodates the combination of resolutions, frame rates, and color bit depths supported within the HDMI 2.1 specification, ensuring infrastructure that will last for years.

The  What: RGB Spectrum has added the CrossPoint KVM-over-IP to the company’s product portfolio.

The What Else: CrossPoint KVM-over-IP allows operators to connect and control remote systems across a room or worldwide enterprise. Leveraging a standard 1 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) network, the CrossPoint KVM-over-IP system delivers a scalable KVM matrix switching solution connecting multiple users with controllable systems, including multi-headed computers. 

Most importantly, the CrossPoint system offers high performance at low bit rates, with latency performance as low as 40 msec. 

Users can view and operate multiple systems from a remote station, with control by a single keyboard and mouse. CrossPoint’s scalable IP switching architecture delivers outstanding 4Kp60 4:4:4 UHD visual performance and excellent keyboard and mouse responsiveness over a LAN or WAN.

The Bottom Line: A networked CrossPoint KVM-over-IP system supports one-to-one, one-to-many, many-to-one, or many-to-many configurations. It allows operators to view multiple desktops on a multi-display or multiviewer operator station and take control of a system by simply moving the mouse to the target desktop using KlickSimple cursor navigation. 

The What: Extron has announced the immediate availability of the DTP2 CrossPoint 82, an 8x2 presentation matrix switcher that provides video scaling, switching, and integration features. 

The What Else: With a maximum data rate of 18 Gbps, it supports video resolutions up to 4K/60 at 4:4:4 chroma sampling and is HDCP 2.2 compliant. The DTP2 CrossPoint matrix switcher incorporates Extron’s Vector 4K scaling technology. It features DTP2, DisplayPort and HDMI inputs, plus one HDMI and one scaled DTP2 output for extending video, audio, and control signals up to 330 feet (100 meters) over a shielded Cat-x cable. The available built-in Extron IPCP Pro control processor and integrated 100-watt Class D power amplifier make DTP2 CrossPoint 82 an all-in-one system design solution. The matrix switcher delivers high-quality images, fast and reliable switching, along with Extron ProDSP audio processing, seamless video transition effects, logo keying, and HDMI loop-through. Designed for professional AV integration, the DTP2 CrossPoint 82 may be controlled and configured via Ethernet, RS-232, or USB.

Related: Extron Teams Up With Lenovo

“The DTP2 CrossPoint 82 delivers the highest level of performance and capability in the industry for this category,” said Casey Hall, vice president of worldwide sales and marketing at Extron. “The combination of market-leading video and audio processing technologies, plus its secure control capabilities, gives designers and integrators a versatile solution that can be applied to a wide range of designs.”

The DTP2 CrossPoint 82 delivers all the core functionality of a conventional AV system, in a single enclosure that replaces as many as ten separate components. In addition to saving substantial space in a rack, the compact enclosure makes it easier to standardize on a common system design throughout a facility, and to adapt this DTP2 CrossPoint matrix switcher to many different environments where equipment space may be limited. 

The Bottom Line: This fully featured presentation matrix switcher is designed for versatility and is well suited for presentations with content on multiple displays, and for providing a variety of AV system configurations to serve multi-purpose and divisible rooms.

The What: At ISE 2020, Key Digital showcased its latest multi-view presentation matrix switcher, the KD-MLV4x2Pro. The four-input, two-output video matrix features multi-view processing and UHD/4K resolution up-scaling with audio de-embed.

[Key Digital Launches KD-Pro8x8D All-in-One Solution]

The What Else: The KD-MLV4x2Pro gives video wall functionality to any professional or consumer large panel or screen. In full-screen mode, the screen will display any of the six (four HDMI and two VGA) video sources; in quadrant mode, four video sources are viewed in equally sized quadrants; and in multi-view mode, the processor creates and stores custom multi-view layouts with the option to choose a primary video source on the top, bottom, left, or right of the screen while still viewing the additional three sources in smaller windows. 

KD-MLV4x2Pro offers maximized processing capabilities to allow fine content like text tickers and spreadsheets to be viewed clearly. Integrators can create custom screen layouts by stacking images with customizable priority settings with image layering.

The KD-MLV4x2PRO matrix supports SD, HD, and VESA input resolutions up to 1080p / 1920x1200 on four HDMI and two analog video inputs; analog video input ports support VGA / DB15 or component / YPbPr signal types; and outputs independently upscale to 4096x2160 30Hz [4:4:4] 8-bit in Ultra HD/4K in 4K Quadrant mode. The second-generation updates include HDBaseT, HDCP2.2, and surround audio.

A wide array of control options includes IR, RS-232, TCP/IP via open API, and web control interface, which reduces installation time and provides basic and advanced video and audio setup. The KD-MLV4x2Pro is Key Digital app ready, Key Digital Management Software Pro (KDMS Pro) ready, and Compass Control Pro ready.

The Bottom Line: In addition to multi-view picture-in-picture functionality, KD-MLV4x2Pro is also a seamless switcher with uninterrupted screen transitions during source selections, making it well suited for integration with projectors where switching typically results in long blue screens.

The What: Extron has added the DXP 42 HD 4K PLUS to the DXP HD 4K PLUS Series of high-performance HDMI matrix switchers. This 4x2 model supports data rates up to 18Gbps and video resolutions up to 4K60 with 4:4:4 chroma sampling. 

The What Else: To maintain signal integrity and reliability, it provides automatic cable equalization on each input and independent output re-clocking to reshape and restore video signal timing on both HDMI outputs. Extron technologies such as EDID Minder and Key Minder improve system performance and compliance with HDCP-encrypted content. The matrix switcher also facilitates integration into a wide variety of professional AV applications, with audio de-embedding and audio breakaway capabilities. 

The audio outputs on the DXP 42 HD 4K PLUS simplify integration with a local audio system. Embedded digital audio from a source can be switched along with its corresponding video signal to either or both selected HDMI outputs. Built-in audio de-embedders allow signals to be routed to analog audio outputs and made available as line-level stereo audio on captive screw connectors. The internal de-embedders eliminate the need for external HDMI audio extraction products. The result of integrating the DXP 42 HD 4K PLUS matrix switcher is fewer boxes in the AV system for reduced system complexity and maintenance costs.

“System designers and integrators often need compact matrix switchers for use in small meeting rooms and collaboration spaces,” said Casey Hall, vice president of worldwide sales and marketing. “The DXP 42 HD 4K PLUS is the answer. It's small in size and big on performance, delivering 4K/60 4:4:4 signal routing and de-embedded audio outputs without need for additional equipment.”

The Bottom Line: The DXP 42 HD 4K PLUS’s robust feature set, combined with multiple control options, make it well suited for applications that require reliable, high-performance matrix switching of 4K60 HDMI video and audio signals.

The What: Extron has begun shipping the DMP 64 Plus series of compact Digital Matrix Processors, featuring six DSP input channels with AEC, in a half rack space. 

The What Else: The AT models can be powered by PoE+ and provide 32x16 Dante connectivity for popular Dante microphone arrays and other Dante devices, while the V models include up to eight VoIP lines for collaboration applications. Featuring an ACP bus for audio control panels, an expansion port for bidirectional digital audio connection with a DTP CrossPoint or another DMP, eight audio file players, and configurable macros, the DMP 64 Plus can be used in a wide variety of smaller systems.

"The smaller size of many collaboration spaces often means fewer inputs are needed while retaining key features like AEC and multiple control options", said Casey Hall, vice president of sales and marketing. "The DMP 64 Plus series can be powered by PoE+ for installation simplicity and offers Dante and VoIP models to meet any connectivity need."

All six main DSP channels of the DMP 64 Plus offer FlexInput source selection to route any Dante input, expansion input, or one of the six mic/line inputs, to a main DSP channel. This enables the DMP 64 Plus to process audio from any source with the full range of DSP capabilities, including AEC.

The Bottom Line: With a flexible mix matrix, a USB audio interface, and 6x4 analog connectivity, the DMP 64 Plus provides the ability to connect and route signals to accommodate a variety of system requirements.

The What: TEKVOX has added the 79055-K, a kitted and ready-to-use 4x4 HDMI/HDBase-T matrix, to its product line.

The What Else: The 79055-K kit is built around a 4k/UHD matrix switcher with four HDMI inputs and four matrixed HDBase-T outputs, each with a mirrored HDMI. The kit includes four HDBase-T receivers that are powered from the matrix and four 75-foot Cat-6A shielded cables that have been individually certified for HDBase-T compatibility. 

Any source is accessible at all times by any display by selecting it via the supplied IR remote control, RS-232, TCP/IP, or by using the selection buttons on the front panel. 

The matrix supports resolutions up to 4Kx2K at 30Hz and LPCM7.1ch, Dolby TrueHD, Digital Plus, and DTS-HD digital audio formats. Input mapping can be changed by front-panel buttons, the included IR remote, or RS-232 serial commands. It is compatible with all TEKVOX control and user interface solutions. HDBase-T outputs transmit video, audio, and control up to 230 feet (70m) and cable lengths can be customized at order time for precise installations.  

“Our new solution provides a low-cost matrix solution with complete receiver set and certified HDBase-T cables for about half the price of old-fashioned solutions,” said TEKVOX CEO Jim Reinhart. “It’s a state-of-the-art, easy-to-use, plug-and-play solution that offers the ability to apply a matrix where it previously wasn’t possible due to cost and complexity. It gives users a great deal of flexibility in creating dynamic multimedia environments.” With matrix switching, any of four inputs can be routed and transmitted to any or all displays and changed dynamically as usage varies. “This type of technology is greatly beneficial for event-oriented spaces such as house of worship, conferencing, and similar uses where a fixed mapping doesn’t work well.”

The Bottom Line: Now shipping, the TEKVOX HDBaseT 4x4 HDMI Matrix is designed to meet the needs of the education, corporate/conference, and worship markets, which are making increased use of multiple video displays.

KVM display management systems developer IHSE USA has partnered with VuWall, a provider of visualization solutions for controlling, managing, and collaborating on graphic information for video walls and multiscreen structures. The partnership aims to address a gap in the market, allowing companies to scale their KVM outputs to display walls or multi-view displays through a single, integrated control interface.

The integration of the IHSE KVM matrix and VuWall systems makes it possible to control and visualize all sources from the matrix switcher onto the video wall. With this system, multiple sources can be switched and displayed simultaneously on the video wall. With VuWall's collaborative interface, operators have all critical data and information at their fingertips from a single interface. It's also possible to mix in other sources from other systems, such as IP streams, applications, and websites.

"IHSE and VuWall bring AV/IT integrators and video wall operators the perfect complementary technology with seamless integration," said Paul Vander Plaetse, CEO at VuWall. "With numerous successful joint deployments throughout Europe, we are excited to partner with IHSE at NAB and bring our integrated solution to the American market."

At the 2019 NAB Show, the VuWall system is connected via an IHSE Draco vario compact matrix system and HDMI extenders. Multiple types of video sources will be distributed through the KVM matrix and extended to a 2x2 wall display, where multiple sources will be displayed simultaneously. Operators will control the content layout on the video wall via the VuScape video wall controller using a VuWall touch panel for quick macro access of predefined layouts. Users can interact with the matrix from a local keyboard or from the touchpanel interface. Communication between the IHSE and VuWall processors happens thanks to the IHSE API, through which buttons and images can be defined by the operator for a more graphical user experience.

"With the collaboration of VuWall and IHSE to create a more robust video wall display and management system, the companies continue to drive new and better solutions that system integrators can rely on to be more flexible and cost-effective," said Dan Holland, marketing manager for IHSE USA. "The new partnership offers our channel partners and customers a full-featured KVM and wall management solution ideal for those demanding dramatic user experiences across multiple displays."

The combined offering aims to create a new distribution category for the AV integration market at a time when those in the broadcast, entertainment, and government command and control verticals are seeking cost-effective solutions for interactive knowledge walls. This collaborative interface gives the operators complete control from a single surface. The interface also allows operators to resize all windows across the complete input range and access multiple sources, even if they are on segregated networks. Interfaces can be set up in any configuration with operator-accessible templates and groups.

This solution enables full end-to-end creation, management, production, and distribution of quality live video, combined with graphical overlays used in broadcast master control and C4ISR command centers.

The What: tvONE is now shipping the MX-65xx Matrix Switcher series, introduced first at InfoComm 2018. The series includes MX-6588 (4K60 8x8 HDMI 2.0 Matrix), MX-6584 (4K60 8x4 HDMI 2.0 Matrix), and MX-6544 (4K60 4x4 HDMI 2.0 Matrix).

The What Else: The MX-65xx Matrix Switcher series is designed to allow the distribution of HDMI 2.0 (with HDCP) sources to multiple display devices independently or all at the same time using an intuitive front panel, infrared remote control, the company’s control software, MX-tools, or use the simple API with a third-party controller. It is HDCP 2.2 compliant and provides full support for 4K/2K60 4:4:4 8-bit and 10-bit processing for deep color rendition. 3D signals are also supported. Audio includes 7.1 audio capability including DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD.

“The new MX-65xx Series of matrices provides a well-rounded and flexible set of solutions,” said Mark Armon, global product manager for tvONE. "With the pressures of 4K entering the conference room, these small devices will really help our integrators.”

The Bottom Line: The MX-65xx Matrix series is well suited for a variety of installations including classrooms or conference rooms that demand high levels of performance and 4:4:4 4K/60 image fidelity.

The What: Roland Professional AV has introduced the XS-42H Matrix Switcher – a compact, simple-to-install and easy-to-operate switcher for huddle space and small meeting room video and audio.

The What Else: The Roland XS-42H allows fast, seamless connection of up to four computers and tablets over HDMI with automatic optimization and display of newly connected sources; automatic audio-follows-video switching; web browser-based control from a networked computer, tablet or phone; and simple selection of one of 10 user-configurable meeting setup scenes. Source content can be switched to feed one or two video displays via HDMI. With the XS-42H, meetings are about sharing ideas and collaboration, not about fiddling with connections, remotes, and interface settings.

The XS-42H’s auto input detection automatically switches to a newly connected device. The XS-42H uses the EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) protocol to communicate with a connected device to specify the correct output resolution for the PC or tablet.

When sources are disconnected, the XS-42H can automatically return to a specified input instead of the typical black screen.

The Roland XS-42H includes stereo RCA outputs for connection to external speakers or soundbars for improved audio quality. The internal audio mixer of the XS-42H will switch the audio to match the video input, using the audio embedded in the computer’s HDMI signal. Input of auxiliary external audio sources is facilitated by a second pair of RCA phono jacks. Front panel controls with associated level indications allow adjustment of external line input, line output, and master audio levels, as well as headphone output level.

The XS-42H allows any tablet to serve as a touch controller, via the browser application. Scene selection and core switching functions can also be intuitively implemented by way of front-panel switches that illuminate to indicate available and selected sources.

The Bottom Line: The XS-42H weighs just 2 lbs 11 oz (1.2 kg) and measures 9 9/16 inches (W) x 1 3/4 inches (H) x 4 15/16 inches (D) (242 mm x 125 mm x 44 mm). It can be used freestanding, or can be rack-mounted by way of included adaptor hardware. The Roland Professional A/V XS-42H Matrix Switcher will be available in Q4 of 2018 at a price of $1,395.00.

The What: ProVideoInstruments has launched VuMATRIX, a plug-and-play receiver and transmitter with wireless control through ProVideoInstruments’ application.

The What Else: ProVideoInstruments’ VuMATRIX is a 4K high-definition receiver and transmitter set distributing HDMI over an existing 1 Gb IP network. With unlimited expansion capabilities, the VuMATRIX allows users to connect a transmitter for each source and a receiver unit for each TV on the network. Ideal for creating reliable, eye-catching video walls, the VuMATRIX can group multiple receivers with plug-and-play presets through PVI’s free control software and the system can be controlled with the software or an included IR remote.

The VuMATRIX can be controlled from an iPhone, iPad, Galaxy, Android or other mobile device through the PVI application. Instead of connecting to a computer or powering and controlling through a central hub, the PVI application allows end-users to control the transmitter and receiver through the app. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, the PVI app allows users to switch televisions without any additional switching – Making it unlike any other product on the market.

The Bottom Line: With robust audio and video quality, the VuMATRIX is a cost-effective solution that installs within minutes by connecting to an existing network switch to distribute 4K HDMI 2.0 and HDCP2.2 over an IP network. The VuMATRIX features a remote control, optical and analog audio, and can be programmed with IR commands using a universal remote. The VuMATRIX, as well as any product from PVI, includes a five-year warranty and unlimited technical support.

ProVideoInstruments will feature the VuMATRIX in booth 1907 at CEDIA 2018.

The What: Atlona is set to debut Opus, a series of three HDMI-to-HDBaseT matrix switchers and one receiver for high performance 4K HDR signal distribution and extension. Opus is engineered with a comprehensive range of control system integration and audio matrixing features. The Opus Series includes the AT-OPUS-46M (4x6); AT-OPUS-68M (6x8); and AT-OPUS-810M (8x10) matrix switchers, all of which feature HDBaseT outputs for transmission of HDMI, Ethernet pass through, bidirectional IR, and RS-232 control signals up to 330 feet.

The What Else: A companion Atlona receiver, the AT-OPUS-RX, is purpose-built for the Opus matrix switchers. The receiver is remotely powered over Ethernet (PoE), and interfaces IR, RS-232 and Ethernet control for displays while also allowing IR control transmission back to a source device. The dedicated Opus receiver is compatible with all video resolutions, audio formats and color space formats supported in the HDMI 2.0b specification with the added ability to pass metadata for HDR streaming content.

“With many new High Dynamic Range televisions on the market, integrators are facing customer demands for AV systems that support these formats, or for their current systems to be upgraded to HDR capability,” said Joshua Castro, product manager, Atlona. “The Opus Series is the next stage in the evolution of our HDMI-to-HDBaseT matrix switcher product line for integrators looking to take on the challenge of building a video distribution system to accommodate 4K/UHD video at a 60 Hz frame rate with 4:4:4 chroma sampling.”

To optimize multi-zone AV capabilities, all Opus receivers are also compatible with Atlona’s AT-JUNO-451-HDBT switcher, and the Velocity control platform, an IP- and cloud-enabled solution for transitioning control applications to the network.

The Bottom Line: Opus switchers are ideal for whole-house residential AV distribution, as well as light commercial, education and corporate projects that require compatibility with new and emerging devices for 4K presentations. Atlona will showcase Opus at CEDIA in Booth 3015.

When it comes to delivering AV signals from multiple sources over long distances to multiple video displays, the traditional matrix switcher has evolved to accommodate 4K HDR, HDMI, and HDCP 2.2 content protection. Manufacturers in this category are finding new ways to enhance the traditional capabilities of the matrix switcher, while also offering alternatives in the form of AV-over-IP solutions, and even blended technologies that allow for a gradual transition from one technology to another.

While RGB Spectrum still provides traditional, rack-based matrix switcher solutions, director of product marketing John Henkel said that customers across all verticals have been looking for ways to bring together a variety of distributed sources and then switch them to single or multiple different outputs that could also be distributed far away from the switch. So, to complement its HDBaseT and fiber solutions, the company introduced the Zio AV-over-IP ecosystem—a network-based matrix switcher “and then some,” according to Henkel.

The encoders in the Zio system can be placed at each source, wherever they are located, while decoders or multiviewers can be placed directly at the display. The user interface can be accessed via any web browser, allowing the operator to be located anywhere and have full access to the entire Zio system.

To meet the needs of today’s geographically dispersed AV networks, Zio products can be scaled up by adding encoders or decoders to the network, as needed.

“Zio products are based on a peer-to-peer architecture that provides near infinite scalability,” Henkel said. “And, unlike other networked AV systems that require the additional expense of a dedicated server, Zio’s peer-to-peer architecture is server-less, saving money, and reducing points of failure.”

The Zio user interface is web-based so any web browser can log in, and depending on their assigned access privileges, administer the system from anywhere. “We provide thumbnails of all the Zio-encoded sources so the operator knows right away what source they want to route and what is currently routed to a destination,” Henkel explained.

For those who are apprehensive about switching over their entire system to a new AV-over-IP solution, RGB Spectrum also offers a complete line of networked AV products that can be added to any system as needed to bring in distant sources or switch to a display that is across the network. These can be used with existing matrix switchers and other equipment or can operate as a wholly contained matrix switching solution.

Extron Electronics has released the DXP HD 4K PLUS Series to meet the ever-increasing demand for a matrix switcher with 4K/60 video distribution capability and support for the latest HDCP 2.2 content protection standard. Another main driving factor for the development of this new lineup was the HDMI 2.0b specification, which includes data rates up to 18Gbps, HDR, and Deep Color up to 12-bit.

Extron Electronics director of product marketing Joe da Silva explains that an audio de-embedding feature in the switcher also assures that system designers won’t need to add “another box” to the system and that the hurdles of onsite setup and commissioning have been significantly minimized by Extron’s Product Configuration Software.

For classrooms, training rooms, divisible rooms, and command and control centers, 8x8, 8x4, and 4x4 options provide contractors with more flexibility in designing their systems. “This series also provides automatic input cable equalization, allowing for longer cable runs and even further flexibility in installations,” da Silva said. “Additionally, as many systems turn toward energy-efficient designs, our lineup provides contractors with new power save modes that can prove beneficial and attractive for these special projects.”

Atlona’s three new matrix switchers—the Opus Series of 4K HDR HDMI to HDBaseT Matrix Switchers and the Opus receiver for 4K HDR HDMI over 100-meter HDBaseT transmission—are offered in 4x6, 6x8, and 8x10 configurations, each equipped with a comprehensive host of audio and control system integration features. The compatible OPUS-RX receives HDMI, Ethernet pass-through, and bidirectional IR and RS-232 control signals up to 330 feet (100 meters) over Cat-6a/7 cable.

Atlona’s director of marketing Garth Lobban noted that while HDBaseT is a robust and well-known method for extending HDMI signals over Cat-6a/7 cable, it has a data rate limitation of 10.2Gbps, significantly below the required 18Gbps data rate in the HDMI 2.0 specification. To accommodate the challenge of these higher HDMI data rates, Atlona utilized what it says is visually lossless VESA Display Stream Compression (DSC), enabling HDR and 4K60 4:4:4 signal extension over HDBaseT with zero frames of latency.

Additionally, Lobban pointed out that customers who had installed Atlona’s previous generation of matrix switchers told the company that they needed more audio matrixing capability. That led product designers to build in a full, independent audio matrix with both TOSLINK and balanced audio outputs for these customers.

Arista Corporation president Paul Shu said that the biggest challenge to traditional AV matrix switchers has been the growth limitation of the switcher frame itself and the number of inputs and outputs.

“A commonly encountered challenge arises when the need to add one more device to a maxed-out AV system occurs, since the switcher doesn't have any remaining inputs or outputs,” Shu said.

Arista’s IP Flash Caster Series enables the connection of as many encoders and decoders as a network design requires, with the ability to scale up further as requirements evolve.

“Based on the network configuration, you are also no longer limited to AV signals being confined within the room,” Shu explained. “The decoders can be configured to display any stream from any of the encoders. This provides single endpoint devices for small installations and a rackmount cluster (16 blades per 5U rackmount) for larger installations. These decoders can be added to the switching design as needed.”

The IP Flash Caster Series is designed to deliver 4K60 4:4:4 uncompressed signal over 10Gbps network switches and provides a variety of endpoint device configuration options—from a single endpoint device to a 16-blade rackmount unit. The IP Flash Caster Series also offers a variety of video format input options, as well as splitter output configuration capability to address every possible application requirement.

“With its ability to easily adapt to growing or otherwise evolving environments simply by connecting as many encoders and decoders as required, the IP Flash Caster represents a cost-effective solution for a wide range of AV applications,” Shu added. “With its low latency and high-quality video performance attributes, the IP Flash Caster makes an excellent choice for command centers, hospitals, broadcast, and live event production. It is also well suited for conference facilities, convention centers, and events that demand high video quality.”

For more on AV-over-IP, download the free Integration Guide to AV-over-IP.

The What: PureLink has launched Media Axis—a wholly proprietary 21st century Ultra HD signal distribution system. Media Axis is the industry’s first large-scale signal management solution to support Ultra HD/4K60 4:4:4 via both native and IP architectures interchangeably, according to the company.

The What Else: Media Axis offers fully modular and scalable systems with frame sizes from 20x20 to 216x216, utilizing its unique Omni-Flex design featuring hot-swappable I/O cards, MCU, AirLift cooling units, and power supplies.

"Media Axis takes Ultra HD signal distribution to the next level, merging native and IP architectures, while delivering HDMI 2.0, HDBaseT, Fiber, 12G-SDI, and IP all together on a single purebred platform," said Howard Schilling, director of sales at PureLink. "In the midst of the video-over-IP revolution that has created as much confusion as anything else, Media Axis delivers on the clear path the industry has been waiting for—a new breed of Ultra HD signal distribution that truly changes the game.”

The Bottom Line: Together with full-featured 4K/60 4:4:4 media processing and auto-scaling powered by the company’s proprietary Motore 2.0 processor, Media Axis delivers an adaptable, forward-thinking solution designed to meet the needs of any application and infrastructure.