PALM Expo Magazine
Sound · Light · Audio Visual
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 a 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 a number of key features that enhance functionality as well as 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 4×1 supports auto-switching, passive HDMI power, and now the full 18Gbps bandwidth HDMI 2.0 offers — all while supporting HDR content including HLG, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. The EXP-SW-0401-H2 showcases a low-profile, ultra-slim chassis for installation convenience without sacrificing strength and quality. This allows the device to be installed under a table or desk for discreet integration.
WyreStorm’s Essentials Switchers provide lossless duplication and distribution of a single HDMI UHD or HD source to multiple outputs, supporting resolutions up to 4K. EDID and HDCP device communication are automatically negotiated, making this a true plug-and-play device.
KEY DIGITAL - KD-UFS42 SWITCHER
The KD-UFS42 is a 4K 18G universal format switcher featuring four inputs (two HDMI, one VGA, and one DisplayPort), with HDMI and HDBaseT mirrored outputs and an included receiver. It also offers audio de-embedding, CEC Manager, and auto-switching.
Launched in September 2020, the cost-effective KD-UFS42 is part of Key Digital’s extensive Presentation Solutions lineup, all KD-App and KD-Plug-and-Present ready. Users can control power, volume, and muting of CEC-supported displays or projectors connected to the included KD-X40MRx HDBaseT receiver or HDMI output directly from the unit’s front buttons.
Auto-switching supports the automatic selection of newly detected sources and switching away from disconnected ones. When installed on a network, the KD-UFS42 can be scanned and detected with Key Digital’s free KD-App, enabling video source selection, CEC management, and control of integrated Key Digital amplifiers and conferencing cameras.
Multiple systems can even be installed and uniquely controlled on the same network thanks to the KD-UFS42’s ability to assign unique names to each switcher. The device is fully controllable by all TCP/IP RS-232 supported control systems via open API, including Compass Control Pro and third-party systems.
EXTRON - MSW MINI SWITCHERS
The Extron MSW Series comprises four-input active mini switchers for composite video, S-video, and SDI video signals. All three models include two parallel outputs, simplifying video system design by eliminating the need for a separate 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 includes two re-clocked SDI outputs that comply with SMPTE 259M digital video standards.
All MSW models include front panel, contact closure, and RS-232 serial control. Auto-switching allows any input to be automatically selected 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.
KRAMER - AFM-20DSP MATRIX
The AFM-20DSP is a matrix with DSP and interchangeable inputs and outputs, providing configuration flexibility and eliminating I/O limitations with its 20 interchangeable analog audio ports. It also offers 8 AEC channels, auto feedback suppression, Dante support, built-in Hi-Z and Lo-Z 120W power amplification, and full DSP functionality powered by Xilica Audio.
For video needs, AFM-20DSP provides HDMI embedding and de-embedding at 4K60 4:2:0. With both fixed and open architecture, AV professionals can use predefined sound configurations or create systems from scratch.
The AFM-20DSP integrates easily into existing AV installations but is especially suited for demanding boardrooms, multipurpose spaces, auditoriums, sports bars, houses of worship, live events, broadcast facilities, and recording studios.