Behind the AV technology: what is matrix switching?
We are surrounded by AV technology, but not many of us understand what’s involved. This is strange considering that we rely on AV technology for our entertainment, business operations like conference rooms, work and so much more.
What is even stranger, is that not many of us have stopped to consider what’s involved in AV technology, or, more specifically, the technology we’re referring to when we talk about this.
At DEXON Systems, we ensure our customers have all the information they need before purchasing any AV systems, so that’s why we have created this complete guide to matrix switching.
To help you understand the true value of matrix switchers and their role in displaying content on video walls, we’ve created this guide that defines matrix switches, discusses its key uses and where we use matrix switchers.
What is a matrix switcher?
Before we go into detail about the roles of a matrix switcher, let’s discuss what a matrix switcher is. A matrix switcher is a type of all-in-one control box that allows users to process and switch between different input and output signals.
The matrix switcher is a necessary component of all AV video wall projects, including smaller projects with few input signals. This is because the matrix switcher condenses the video wall operation, meaning that users can limit the amount of equipment they need to transport from A to B.
Not only is this technology responsible for processing input signals and seamlessly switching, these systems also generate impressive effects and allow users to distribute a huge volume of information by isolating screens and displaying different snippets of information.
Matrix switching systems typically work in collaboration with other video wall technology, including video wall processors and controllers to create dynamic displays suitable for all settings, mitigate display issues and so much more.
Matrix switchers are designed to work with video walls of any size. On the Dexon Systems website, you’ll find a few different chassis available that can work with your size video wall, here’s a quick guide:
- 4RU: 4×4 to 16×6 in configuration
- 7RU: 16×16 to 32×32 in configuration
- 14RU: 32×32 to 144×72 in configuration
What are the main uses of a matrix switcher
So, what is the main responsibility of a matrix switcher? Well, a matrix switcher’s sole responsibility is to help users navigate video walls and ensure that monitors work in unison to display content across multiple monitors.
In case you weren’t aware, video walls are essentially a collection of monitors that work together to display one or multiple images or motion pictures. These can consist of LCD screens, LED video walls, and rear projected cube walls. These can come in sizes from 2×2 to 144×72.
With a matrix switcher and the help of other video wall technology, users can command individual monitors and enable them to work as a single surface no matter the size of boundaries. Alternatively, a matrix switcher and video processor can isolate screens to display a high volume of information from a single source.
The resolution of a video wall is dependent on the sum total of the individual monitor’s resolution, but high-quality video wall equipment from DEXON can help you mitigate any resolution and quality issues.
One of the key benefits of DEXON’s matrix switcher is that they’re highly modular, meaning you’ll be able to find the perfect matrix switcher for your project size.
As you might have guessed, one of the primary functions of a matrix switcher is to switch between input signals. Essentially, matrix switching refers to the process of changing to different sources, thus displaying different information with total ease!
However, the opportunities don’t stop there. DEXON’s matrix switchers also scale up and down, crop, cross, convert and so much more from a single control box. Additionally, users can control their layout with a matrix switcher, allowing them to recall previous layouts and reducing the time spent on setting up their video wall.
Where can we use matrix switchers
Matrix switchers are suitable for any setting, so users aren’t boxed in when it comes to the environments that you can use them in.
This is a key benefit, as we understand that modern businesses and AV enthusiasts like yourselves require versatility and flexibility from your AV equipment. If you can’t quite visualize where to use a matrix switcher, here’s a guide to settings where you can use them:
Surveillance systems
Surveillance systems and surveillance control rooms rely on having clear visuals of all security cameras to respond to emergencies. With the help of a Dexon matrix switcher, users can connect to a remote wireless network that connects to their cameras. From this, users can display all footage from different cameras across a video wall, allowing them to have a bird’s eye view of their vulnerable points such as entrances and exits.
Transport settings
A matrix switcher is capable of controlling multiple screens to display different information, while still offering users all the information they require from a single source. This is very useful in traditionally chaotic environments such as transport settings.
With the help of video wall technology like matrix switchers, commuters don’t need to scramble for different screens around a train station or airport.
Control rooms
Dexon acknowledges that control rooms are central to so many industries and it’s a setting that thrives when using video wall equipment like matrix switchers. A matrix switcher allows a control room operator to switch between different inputs, allowing them to see their entire business operations from a single wall of screens. This is especially useful when displaying live information in mission critical industries like emergency response or in manufacturing.
Education settings
When teaching the mind of tomorrow, it’s super important to ensure that your content remains engaging throughout presentations. That’s why we recommend using matrix switchers in education settings such as lecture theaters where you can make use of built-in effects. This is also beneficial for distributing large volumes of information to huge quantities of students!
