Video walls don’t just operate by accident; they require complex technology that enables users to process input signals, generate effects, and so much more. But how much do you know about the unique technology at play when operating video walls? Do you know anything about matrix switchers?
If the answer is no, you’re in the right place. At DEXON, we ensure our customers have all the information they need before investing in technology like matrix switchers. This ensures you can buy with confidence, safe in the knowledge that you know all there is to know about our impressive matrix switchers.
In this blog, we’ll discuss what matrix switchers are, where they’re used, what they do and how you can choose the ideal matrix switcher for your project.
Ready?
What is a matrix switcher?
Before we discuss the specifics, let’s explore what professional matrix switchers are. Matrix switchers are a must-have for all types of AV projects. Conventional matrix switchers perform only routing of input signals to any or multiple outputs of the box. Intelligent matrices act as an all-in-one control box, this system processes and switches different input signals, scaling, crossing, switching, converting and cropping all content.
One of the best things about this technology is that users can essentially do it all from this one system, so if the sight of numerous devices and countless wires is enough to keep you up at night, you’re in luck.
With a matrix switcher, users can create sophisticated presentations that can process vast quantities of data, streamlining their presentation and transmitting many signals to individual monitors simultaneously.
Matrix switchers work in conjunction with other video wall technology, such as processors and controllers, helping users create dynamic displays that take their presentations to a new level. In case you’re unaware, video walls are a collection of multiple screens and panels that collaborate to display one or more coherent images.
The quality of this display is the sum total of each monitor’s resolution. These walls come in various sizes, from 2×2 to 144×72. DEXON’s matrix switchers are modular, so you’ll find a switcher that serves these sizes. One of the best parts of DEXON’s quality matrix switchers is video matrix switching, routing matrix, and video processing from a single outlet.
Matrix switchers are designed to be as flexible as you are; that’s why you’ll find that operators can use DEXON’s matrix switchers locally and remotely via a web-based browser where you can have multiple operators.
Ultimately, matrix switchers exist to make your life significantly more manageable, so that’s why systems allow you to recall and save previous video wall layouts. This helps you get set up and running much quicker than traditional technology. Therefore, this system is the perfect addition for any presenter who needs to transport matrix switchers from one presentation to the next in a short time.
Here is a guide to the different chassis available on our website:
4RU: Configurations from 4×4 to 16×16 7RU: Configurations from 16×16 to 32×32 14RU: Configurations from 32×32 to 144×72
Where are they used?
Now we know what they do and how they do it, let’s discuss where we can use matrix switchers. Answering this question can be tricky because one of the best parts of AV technology is that the user has all the control over where these systems are used.
However, there are a few places where this technology is incredibly useful, let’s discuss a few:
Education
Your first instinct may not be education settings when discussing complex technology like matrix switchers, but this technology comes into its own in settings that rely on the steady flow of high volumes of data.
With the help of a matrix switcher, users can transform the standard PowerPoint presentation into a dynamic display, switching from different inputs to different screens to communicate more information from a single space.
Lectures no longer need to be a snooze-fest, as matrix switchers allow users to harness effects that excite and engage views.
Transport
Transport settings like train stations are a hub of miscommunication, and in settings where huge volumes of data make a significant difference to everyone’s day, this can be a significant issue. When used in partnership with a video wall, matrix switchers can stream content from different inputs, allowing control room operators to distribute information from different sources to screens for all commuters.
Condensing this information to one point can streamline operations and make traveling a lot less confusing.
Surveillance
Personal safety for you and your business is always a priority, but it’s hard to have eyes everywhere. Not only can your AV systems help you create incredible presentations, they can also revitalize your surveillance systems and help you keep your eyes on what’s important.
Matrix switchers can connect to your security cameras via a wireless network and video wall controllers, displaying content from each camera onto different screens on your video wall. This gives you a personal mission control center, allowing you to see all your most vulnerable points.
Control rooms
Control rooms are everywhere. Whether they’re for emergencies or just general operations, control rooms are central to communicating and distributing critical information. Take an emergency services control room, for example.
These settings are pivotal for ensuring that people receive the correct response from the relevant services in a short space of time. With the help of a matrix switcher, operators can quickly switch to different sources and relay high volumes of information to responders via a video wall. This speeds up task delegation and improves overall operations.
How can you choose a matrix switcher?
Now that you’re confident about everything there is to know about matrix switchers, you’ll probably be wondering how to select a matrix switcher for your AV project. We’re not just interested in supplying high-quality matrix switchers, we’re also in the business of ensuring you receive exactly the right equipment for your AV project.
That’s why each of our switchers comes with its own unique applications page where you can find out which switchers are suitable for which projects. Simply check out the ‘Application Areas’ tabs for each DEXON matrix to see how you can get the best out of a matrix switcher.
That concludes your complete guide to matrix switchers.