Matrix switchers route multiple audio/video sources to multiple audio/video destinations. These switchers accept audio/video signals from a range of input sources - computers, cameras, DVD players, etc. - and route the output to different destinations, such as projectors, monitors, and video conference codecs. To select the right matrix switcher for a specific environment, there are several guidelines to consider: - Matrix switchers provide the ability to route any input to any output - or multiple outputs - at any time.
- Depending on the model, a matrix switcher can route composite video, S-video, component video, serial digital video, or RGB computer-video, with or without stereo audio.
- Matrix switchers can accommodate multiple signal types within a single unit; however, a signal type that is input can only be routed to an output of the same signal type. In other words, composite video inputs can only go to composite video outputs.
 Back to Top
Matrix switchers are used in environments such as corporate boardrooms, command and control centers, classrooms, restaurants, home theaters, and video conference rooms. Below is an example of how a matrix switcher can be used in a restaurant. Three audio/video sources are being input to an Extron MAV 48 AV RCA four input, eight output composite video matrix switcher. These inputs can then be routed to one or more of the eight display devices and the audio system connected to the switcher. Restaurant patrons can view a video source from a DVD player on two of the projectors, while a live feed from the digital satellite system is output to the plasmas. During this time, music can be played on the audio system. Switching different inputs to different outputs can be done on the fly with the push of a button.
Back to Top
MMX, MAV, MAV Plus, Matrix 3200/6400, and Matrix 12800 Series
AV Matrix Switchers are designed for applications that route composite video, S-video, and HDTV/component video signals, with or without stereo audio. Extron HDTV/component matrix switchers are also capable of switching RGsB computer signals up to 150 MHz. These matrix switchers are available in sizes from 4x2 to 128x128, depending on signal type. MAV Plus, Matrix 6400, and Matrix 12800 Series
Audio Matrix Switchers are capable of routing balanced or unbalanced audio signals. These matrix switchers are available in sizes from 8x8 to 128x128. DXP, HDXP Plus Series
Digital Matrix Switchers are designed to switch multiple serial digital video signals with embedded audio that comply with SMPTE and ITU standards for standard definition and high definition video. They are ideal for AV presentation applications, as well as small video production and post-production systems. MMX, MVX, MVX Plus Series
VGA & Audio Matrix Switchers are ideal for classrooms, training facilities, and other applications that require an economical solution for routing high resolution computer-video and stereo audio. Installations are faster and easier through the use of pre-terminated cable assemblies, such as Extron VGA with Audio Cables. These matrix switchers are available in sizes ranging from 3x2 to 12x8. MPX Series
Media Presentation Matrix Switchers combine routing for multiple formats - VGA, composite video, S-video, and stereo audio - in a single, compact enclosure. These matrix switchers are ideal for a variety of small-scale applications including classrooms, training and conference facilities, and sophisticated home theaters. TPX Series, MTPX, MTPX Plus
Twisted Pair Matrix Switchers work in conjunction with twisted pair transmitters and receivers to provide simplified routing and control of signals ranging from RGBHV to composite video or S-video and stereo audio using twisted pair cable. See the Twisted Pair section of this catalog for more information. ISM 824 MultiSwitcher
Multiswitchers, such as the ISM 824, provide system design flexibility through customizable slots that accept a variety of video processing output boards, including universal RGB and video scalers, analog-to-digital scalers, and scan converters. With this unique, powerful expansion capability, multiswitchers allow AV systems to be equipped initially with any combination of output boards, and then upgraded in the future with additional boards as system needs evolve and expand. Updates can easily be accomplished in the field without the need for factory servicing or changes to the internal hardware. ISM 482
The ISM 482 Integration Scaling Matrix Switcher is designed for applications requiring all video input signals to be scaled to a common video output rate. Two independent, high performance scalers provide each output with its own selectable output rate. The ISM 482 supports high resolution computer-video up to 1400x1050, as well as HDTV video signals to 1080p. CrossPoint 300 Series
Wideband RGB Matrix Switchers are designed for analog, high resolution applications using RGBHV, RGBS, or RGsB signals, with or without stereo audio. They are ideal for routing most common computer-video signals, as well as all analog high definition and standard definition video signals. These matrix switchers are available in sizes, ranging from 4x2 to 16x16. CrossPoint 450 Plus Series
Ultra-Wideband RGB Matrix Switchers feature additional bandwidth for the most demanding high resolution computer-video signal routing applications. These matrix switchers come with or without stereo audio, and are available in sizes, ranging from 8x4 to 64x64. SMX System MultiMatrix, Fiber Matrix 6400, Matrix 3200/6400, Matrix 12800 Series
Modular & Expandable Matrix Switchers are designed for mid- and large-scale applications requiring future expandability. They are available in a variety of signal types, including standard video, wideband RGB, sync, multi-rate SDI, fiber optics, and stereo or mono audio, in I/O configurations up to 128x128. The Extron SMX System MultiMatrix is a multi-plane matrix switcher system that combines multiple, independent analog and digital matrix switchers in a modular, field-reconfigurable frame. It supports up to 16 independent matrix switchers, all under a single point of control. The SMX System is an ideal choice for medical imaging systems, conference and training facilities, and other mid-sized applications that require the switching of different signal types and a cost-effective upgrade path for ongoing I/O or signal format changes. The Extron Fiber Matrix 6400 is a high performance, modular fiber optic matrix switcher designed for complete, end-to-end digital AV signal transmission and routing over fiber optic cable. The Fiber Matrix 6400 is fully compatible with the FOX 500 and FOX HD-SDI Series of fiber optic transmitters and receivers. The Fiber Matrix 6400 delivers highly reliable, enterprisewide switching of fiber optic AV and control signals for any mission-critical environment. See the Fiber Optics section of this catalog for more information. Extron Matrix 3200/6400 and Matrix 12800 Series fully-configurable matrix switchers are solutions for large scale routing applications that require the flexibility of customizable and modular switching of composite video, S-video, component video, RGsB, RGBS, RGBHV, and one or two channels of audio. With all necessary BNC connectors on the rear panel and modular internal card slots ready to be filled as needed, Matrix 3200/6400 and Matrix 12800 Series matrix switchers can grow to accommodate any system — even systems that are still expanding. Matrix Switcher Accessories include a variety of intuitive user control interfaces designed for easy mounting in any application. From simple IR remote control to full X-Y input and output selection, Extron manufactures matrix switcher control options to match any system design and remote switching requirement. Additional accessory products are available to support installation and signal distribution. |