User Guide Manual

SMX System MultiMatrix Switcher • Introduction 5
Three front panel security lockout modes (executive modes) — If a matrix switcher is
installed in an area where operation by unauthorized personnel may be a problem, either of
two security lockout modes can be implemented (the third mode is unlocked). When a front
panel locked mode is enabled, a special button combination or SIS command is required to
unlock the front panel controller and make the front panel operational.
Upgradeable firmware — The firmware that controls all switcher operation can be
upgraded on location through the serial port or the Ethernet port, without taking the
switcher out of service. Firmware upgrades are available for download on the Extron
website, www.extron.com, and they can be installed using the Windows-based control
program or the built-in HTML pages.
Button labeling — The Extron button label software lets you create labels to place in
the front panel I/O buttons, with names, alphanumeric characters, or color bitmaps.
Alternatively, labels can be made with any Brother
®
P-Touch
®
or comparable labeler.
Operational flexibility — Operations such as input and output selection, setting of
presets, and adjustment of audio levels can be performed on the front panel or via the
Ethernet or serial link. The serial links allow remote control via a PC or control system. The
Ethernet link allows multiple remote links with two levels of password-protection.
• Front panel controls — The front panel controls support input and output selection
and grouping, preset creation and selection, RGB delay, audio gain and attenuation,
and volume control (audio models).
• Windows-based control program — Via serial port or Ethernet remote control, the
Windows-based control software provides a graphical interface and drag-and-drop or
point-and-click operation.
• Simple Instruction Set (SIS) — SIS commands provides easy programming and
operation.
Switching flexibility — The SMX provides individually buffered, independent matrix
switched outputs with audio follow and audio breakaway for audio models:
• Tie any input to any or all outputs
• Quick multiple tie — Multiple inputs can be switched to multiple outputs
simultaneously. This allows all displays (outputs) to change from source to source at the
same time.
• Audio follow — Audio can be switched with its corresponding video input via front
panel control, under Ethernet, RS-232 or RS-422 control, or by giving the video and
audio boards the same plane address.
• Audio breakaway — Audio can be broken away from its corresponding video signal.
This feature allows any audio signal to be selected with any video signal simultaneously
to one or all outputs in any combination. Audio breakaway switching can be done via
Ethernet, RS-232 or RS-422 control, or by giving the video and audio boards different
plane addresses.