Specifications

20 ExtroNews 12.2 March/April 2001
Matrix Switching
A matrix switcher is a specific type of switcher
that routes multiple inputs to multiple outputs.
Internally, a matrix switcher consists of a series of
distribution amplifiers and switchers, housed in a
single enclosure and controlled by remote or front
panel controllers. Matrix switchers, depending on
the specific model, are able to route composite
video, S-video, HDTV/component video,
RGsB/RGBS/RGBHV video, SDI, and/or stereo audio
(balanced/unbalanced) signals. Matrix switchers are
commonly used in applications such as
presentations, data display, and entertainment, and
they can be a perfect fit for a more complex
videoconferencing environment.
To provide total solutions for different routing
applications, Extron’s matrix switchers offer a
variety of features and are available in input/output
configurations from 4 x 4 up to 256 x 256. Your
selection will depend on the size of the
videoconferencing facility and other applications
your matrix may be used for. Some facilities may
benefit if the videoconferencing and A/V
presentation systems share the same matrix
switcher; the product sharing may well result in
reduced costs, increased signal routing flexibility,
and less need for A/V equipment rack space.
Videoconferencing in a Multi-Room Facility
The illustration (on page 21) depicts two
dedicated videoconference rooms and additional
VC-enabled rooms. In the Extron S3 Technical
Institute, Extron Matrix 6400 Switchers make our
multi-room videoconference concept a reality; any
If you have ever come across the task of
designing a system to accommodate a number of
different videoconferencing scenarios: large
audience, small audience, or both simultaneously,
you know this can be tricky. When designing VC
capabilities into Extron’s S3 Technical Institute, we
knew that a standard, small venue videoconference
would typically be held in one of two dedicated
videoconference rooms. But the prospect of
accommodating a larger audience created another
situation. We needed to be able to conduct a
videoconference in one of the larger training
rooms, or to conduct a single videoconference
simultaneously in multiple rooms. To route the
videoconference signal to any display in any room,
we used Extron matrix switchers.
Part 3: Multiple Scenarios for a Videoconferencing Environment
W
e set the stage for a standard videoconference in our last two issues. First, we put
together a basic setup plus a computer-to-video scan converter for incorporating PC
images. Then we added a little complexity and flexibility by incorporating a multi video
processor, so multiple sources can be simultaneously displayed to far-end participants. Now let’s
add another variable to the videoconference equation—multiple sources and destinations, in
rooms other than the dedicated videoconference room.
SPECIAL VIDEOCONFERENCING SERIES
Camera
Camera
Codec
Display
Display
Classroom
Matrix 6400
Videoconference Room #1
MATRIX 6400
WIDEBAND VIDEO
POWER SUPPLIES COMMUNICATIONS
PRIMARY
RGB
MUTE
AUDIO
MUTE
TX
RS232 BME REMOTE
SYSTEM
STATUS
REDUNDANT RX
DIAGNOSTICS
+
V
-
V
FPC-1000
This simplified routing diagram illustrates how two rooms can share videoconferencing
capabilities via an Extron Matrix 6400 Switcher.The videoconferencing codec and cameras
in one or both rooms feed the matrix. Outputs can then be sent to the videoconferencing
codec and displays in either or both rooms. (See illustration on next page.)