March 18, 2021 - The audio-visual world is becoming increasingly complex as technologies evolve. As such, even projects and spaces that are relatively small are starting to require more efficient, sophisticated AV setups.
Enter matrix switchers, which can route audio and video signals from different input sources to several different output devices simultaneously. So, if you wanted to route the input signals from a DVD player and a computer to a TV monitor, a projector screen, and a sound system all at once, then a matrix switcher would make it easy to do so.
While they are perhaps best known for their larger-scale uses, including in mission control rooms and networked video conference rooms, they have also become integral to the success of smaller projects, including in board rooms, show rooms, and department stores, to name just a few.
What is a Matrix Switcher?
Matrix switchers basically act as the central hub of all input and output in an AV project. Depending on the make and model of the matrix switcher you choose, your device will receive up to the number of signals it is capable of routing, whether they be HDMI signals or other industry standard signals. It will then direct them to the output sources of your choosing, often in real time. These could be different sources in the same room, or across rooms in a more complex, networked AV environment.
Different from normal switchers in their advanced capabilities and capacity to switch between various inputs simultaneously, matrix switchers are not only useful but crucial to the smooth-running of various AV projects, no matter their scale.
However, for optimum performance, smaller projects will require switchers that have been designed especially for projects of that size. There's no point in investing in a device that has unnecessary features and additional complexities if they're just not needed.
If you want to ensure the success of smaller projects, the features you'll need to look out for in a matrix switcher include:
You will also need to figure out exactly how many input and output signals your project or workspace is going to require. No matter the exact specifications, though, there are several options out there for you to choose from, including DEXON's own DIMAX804 and DIMAX404 models. So, you can be sure you'll find a small matrix switcher that perfectly suits your individual needs.
Why Do I Need a Matrix Switcher?
A high-quality matrix switcher can make all the difference between a successful AV project and one that never quite sparks. With the right device, you can present all of the information you need to at once, without having to manually switch between signals and sources.
If you're heading up a board room meeting and you want varied sources of information on display at all times, then a matrix switcher is the best way to do that. Otherwise, it's all too easy to waste your own time trying to manage a cumbersome tech setup, as well as the time of your colleagues. Not to mention the fact that poor, lagging, or inconsistent information displays can be distracting.
Other areas in which matrix switchers can help to make operations run smoother include show rooms, department stores, and on LED walls. Because, for every one of these applications, it's important to make the audio-visual display look effortless. Only by routing several HDMI or other signals through a single, all-in-one device is that possible.
What Kind of Matrix Switcher Do I Need?
As the demand for matrix switchers continues to grow, so does the choice of devices available. Resultantly, there are plenty for you to choose from when you're looking to invest.
However, if you want to ensure a seamless audio-visual experience in any small project, no matter how complex the technological setup may be, it is recommended that you purchase a matrix switcher that has some or all of a number of key features.
When searching for the right matrix switcher for your needs, look out for ones that can offer the following:
Some of these features will help you to better manage the displays of various information, while others will make the output look far more professional to observers. All of them, though, will be sure to improve the quality of your AV project.
Real Time Display
With a matrix switcher that has real time display capabilities, all audio-visual input will be routed from its various sources and presented instantaneously. As such, your screens and sound systems will always display the most up-to-date information as soon it comes available.
This is a feature that will be particularly well suited to receptions and board rooms. In these sorts of environments, new, of-the-moment data is often needed to ensure the smooth running of day-to-day operations and important presentations, to provide just a couple of examples.
Unlimited Scaling
When you're working with a variety of input signals, you want to be sure they'll be accurately routed. As such, unlimited scaling is a must for any person or company with complex AV needs.
Basically, with unlimited scaling, signals from your source devices will be scaled up or scaled down to fit the size of the specified output screen, without any limitation to the output. Purchasing a matrix switcher that performs this in real time is strongly recommended if you want to ensure your displays are flawless be default.
Presentation and Visual Effects
If you want to switch between input signals and do so in a way that looks intentional, professional, and eye-catching, you should look to buy a matrix switcher that can facilitate attractive transitional effects at specified intervals.
Ideal for presentations that require input from two or more sources, switchers with fade-in, fade-out, and cross-fade effects will help to make the information you share that much more memorable.
Remote Control
A remote controlled matrix switcher will make your life (and work) an awful lot easier. With a user interface that is platform independent and easy-to-use, your AV projects will be much simpler to manage.
You also won't be tied to one spot as you try to change displays of information, which means you can get on with more pressing matters.
Video Quality
Whether your project is work-related, a passion project, or something else entirely, you're going to want to impress your viewers, and excellent quality output is the best way to do that.
With a matrix switcher that can support input and output signals at 4K resolution, your various displays will look their best, always.
