Product Focus: AV Signal Transmission
Switcher & Matrices
The use of Switchers in complex networked AV environments has increased significantly, especially to enhance the hybrid workplace environment. Matrix Switchers allow the routing or switching of audio and video signals from multiple input sources to one or several output devices. This month’s product focus features a lineup of Switchers and Matrices. The feature is intended as a guide and does not endorse any of the featured products.
ATLONA - AT-OPUS-RX41 SWITCHER
AT-OPUS-RX41 is a 4×1 HDMI and HDBaseT switcher/receiver and member of the Opus Series of 4K HDR signal distribution and extension products. The OPUS-RX41 offers three HDMI inputs for local devices, plus one HDBaseT input to receive video, embedded audio, Ethernet pass-through, power, and bidirectional control signals over distances up to 330 feet (100 meters). Supporting 4K/UHD @ 60 Hz with 4:4:4 chroma sampling, and high dynamic range formats such as HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision, the OPUS-RX41 is the perfect complement to Opus Series matrix switchers, including the AT-OPUS-46M (4×6); AT-OPUS-68M (6×8); and AT-OPUS-810M (8×10). It is ideal for displaying 4K/UHD HDR content from either a centralized matrix switcher or one of the connected local sources. The OPUS-RX41 includes an number of key features that enhance functionality as well as help simplify residential and light commercial deployments. Extension of CEC as well as bidirectional IR and RS-232 signals over HDBaseT allows a control system connected to the OPUS-RX41 to select inputs on the matrix or control its sources, and allows the matrix to control the local room display. The advanced HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) routes audio from a smart TV to TOSLINK for local audio playback as well as through HDBaseT to an OPUS matrix switcher for whole house audio distribution. EDID management, selectable 4K to 1080p downscaling, and HDCP 2.2 support with selectable down-conversion to HDCP 1.4 ensure compatibility with legacy HD displays. Remote power allows the device to be powered by an Opus matrix switcher, for convenient installation at a display or projector without a local power supply.
WYRESTORM - EXP-SW-0401-H2 SWITCHER
The EXP-SW-0401-H2 is specifically tailored to meet the demands of modern Residential installations. The latest addition to the WyreStorm Essentials switcher range, the EXP-SW-0401-H2 now offers H2 features, plus the same value and reliability found in its predecessors. This new and improved 4x1 supports the same great features such as auto-switching and passive HDMI power and upgraded to include support the full 18Gbps bandwidth HDMI 2.0 offers, all while supporting all HDR content, including HLG, HDR10+ and Dolby Vision! The EXP-SW-0401-H2 showcases a low profile and ultra slim chassis for greater installation convenience without giving up strength and quality. This allows the device to be installed under a table or desk for neat, discreet integration. WyreStorm’s variety of Essentials Switchers offers lossless duplication and distribution of a single HDMI UHD or HD source to multiple outputs for a flexible and reliable solution supporting resolutions up to 4K. EDID and HDCP device communication are automatically negotiated, truly making a plug-and-play device.
KEY DIGITAL - KD-UFS42 SWITCHER
KD-UFS42 4K 18G universal format switcher featuring four inputs (two HDMI, one VGA, and one display port), HDMI and HDBaseT mirrored outputs with included receiver, audio de- embedding, CEC Manager, and auto switching. With a launch date of September 2020, the cost-effective KD-UFS42 joins the company’s extensive product line of Presentation Solutions that are KD-App and .KD-Plug and Present ready. Utilizing the front buttons of the system, users can easily control power, volume, and muting of the CEC- supported displays or projectors connected to the included KD-X40MRx HDBaseT receiver unit and the HDMI output. Auto switching on the KD-UFS42 supports the automatic selection of newly detected sources and switching from newly disconnected sources via Hot Plug Detection voltage when enabled. When installed on a network, KD-UFS42 can be scanned and detected with Key Digital’s free KD-App for switching video source selection, CEC management of the displays/projectors, and control of integrated Key Digital audio amplifier and conferencing camera. Multiple systems may even be installed and uniquely controlled on the same network with the KD-App thanks to KD-UFS42’s ability to assign a discreet name to each switcher. KD-App and Key Digital Management Software Professional offer installers a truly integrated system without the hassle of programming. The KD-UFS42 is fully controllable by all TCP/IP RS-232 supported control systems via open API including Compass Control Pro and third-party control systems.
EXTRON - MSW MINI SWITCHERS
The Extron MSW Series comprises four input, active mini switchers for switching composite video, S-video, and SDI video signals. All three models include two parallel outputs which simplify video system designs by eliminating the need for a separate video distribution amplifier. The MSW 4SV rs model, for S-video sources, features a built-in video encoder for simultaneous output of S-video and composite video. The MSW 4V SDI features two re-clocked SDI - Serial Digital Outputs that comply with the SMPTE 259 M digital video standards. All MSW models are equipped with front panel, contact closure, and RS-232 serial control. In addition, the switchers can be set for input Auto-switching allows any input to be selected automatically when the switcher detects an active source making it ideal for automatic routing and unattended operation. They are housed in a durable, 1U one-quarter rack width metal enclosure and include an external, international power supply. Using RS-232 serial commands, systems can be controlled and configured via the Extron Windows- based control program, or integrated into third-party control systems. It comes with a rack-mountable 1U, quarter rack width metal enclosure and includes External international power supply.
KRAMER - AFM-20DSP MATRIX
AFM-20DSP a matrix with DSP and interchangeable inputs and output that provides configuration flexibility and eliminates I/O limitations with its 20 interchangeable analog audio ports, letting AV professionals get more functionality for less real estate. AFM-20DSP also packs 8 AEC channels, auto feedback suppression, Dante support, built-in Hi-Z and Lo-Z 120W power amplification, and complete DSP functionality powered by Xilica Audio who has been a prominent name in the development of class-leading configurable DSP systems since its establishment in 2002. Not overlooking video requirements, AFM-20DSP provides HDMI embedding and de-embedding at 4K60 4:2:0. AFM 20DSP even boasts both fixed and open architecture, enabling AV professionals to use predefined sound configurations or configure a system from scratch. AFM-20DSP can be easily integrated in existing AV installations but is ideal for the most demanding boardrooms, multipurpose spaces, auditoriums, sports bars, houses of worship, live events, broadcast facilities, and recording studios.