FOX Matrix Switchers Extron's New, Complete Family of Fiber Optic Matrix Switchers

www.extron.com

ExtroNewsIssue 21.1 Winter 2010 FOX Matrix Switchers Extron's New, Complete Family of Fiber Optic Matrix Switchers

e are pleased to announce our new FOX Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher Wfamily with a wide range of I/O configuration and expandability options available from 8x8 to 320x320 and beyond. This family is part of IN THIS ISSUE our continually expanding FOX Series fiber optic A/V integration solutions Featured Product TLP 350CV TouchLink™ 3.5" that include switchers, DAs, and extenders. FOX Series products allow for a Cable Cubby® Touchpanel . . . . 5 complete, large capacity A/V system over a fiber optic-based infrastructure,

The Extron Hotline which offers support for all common video signal formats including the Extron Insiders Enjoy Exclusive Membership Benefits ...... 7 highest resolutions, as well as the ability to support future capacity needs and video technologies. The Extron Hotline Extron Mobile Enables Convenient Web Access ...... 8

Unique Techniques Matrix on Rails - "Switching Trains" Takes on a New Meaning . . . . 9

Digital Connection DRM for the A/V Professional . . 12

Tech Corner Using Extron EDID Manager to Identify and Troubleshoot Display Connectivity Problems ...... 16

Also in this issue: FOX 4G Matrix 7200 New Products ...... 19 Extron Institute Dates . . . . . 20 All FOX Matrix Switchers are modular For larger installations, The Tradeshow Information . . . . . 20 designs. For smaller applications, the FOX 4G Matrix Series includes four SMX System MultiMatrix allows for an models that allow for factory or field I/O configuration as small as 8x8, and configuration from 8x8 up to 32x32 lets you add 8x8 or 16x16 I/O boards as or 72x72, or from 16x16 to 144x144 desired to support multiple, independent or 320x320, depending on the model matrix switching applications in a single and the number of I/O boards installed. unit. SMX Frames are offered in 2U to They also feature compact designs with 5U sizes. modest rack space requirements. For

continued on page 2 FOX FIBER OPTIC MATRIX SWITCHERS

FOX Matrix Switchers — continued example, the FOX 4G Matrix 14400 delivers 144x144 switching in just an 8U FOX 2G AV FOX 4G Matrix 7200 FOX 2G AV Transmitter Modular Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher Receiver enclosure. Multimode Multimode

RS-232 RS-232 RS-232 RS-232 OVER FIBER REMOTE FOX 2G AV Rx OVER FIBER REMOTE FOX 2G AV Tx O I U OPTICAL OPTICAL Tx Rx Tx Rx N Tx Rx Tx Rx T Tx Rx Tx Rx POWER Y/VID B-Y/C POWER P Y/VID B-Y/C OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN 12V P AUDIO 12V AUDIO U 0.8A MAX U L R ALARM 0.8A MAX T L R ALARM T S S

1 - 8 M R-Y S-VID 1 2 R-Y S-VID 1 2 FAN ASSIMBLY A B C D E F G H

OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN S 9 - 16 A B C D E F G H If your fiber optic matrix switching needs OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN M 17 - 24 A B C D E F G H FOX 500 DVI OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN FOX 500 DVI S extend beyond 320x320, our new Extron Transmitter 25 - 32 A B C D E F G H Receiver Multimode OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN Multimode

100-240V 0.3A M 100-240V 0.3A RS-232 RS-232 50/60 Hz 33 - 40 50/60 Hz PASS THRU FOX 500 DVI TX A B C D E F G H PASS THRU FOX 500 DVI TX

TX Rx NA OPTICAL OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN TX Rx NA OPTICAL DVI - D INPUT DDC 1 2* DVI - D OUTPUT 1 2* RESOL LOOP - THRU AUDIO INPUTS AUDIO INPUTS RS-232 RS-232 LINK LINK Matrix 1K Program offers custom matrix L R CONTROL ALARM S L R CONTROL ALARM LINK LINK FAN ASSIMBLY 41 - 48 TX Rx 1 2 OPTIONAL FOR A B C D E F G H TX Rx 1 2 OPTIONAL FOR *RETURN DATA *RETURN DATA

OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN M 49 - 56 A B C D E F G H switching solutions up to 1000x1000 and OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN S 57 - 64 A B C D E F G H FOX 500 RGB OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN FOX 500 RGB S beyond. For more information, see the Transmitter 65 - 72 A B C D E F G H Receiver

SWITCH REFERENCE Multimode REMOTE LAN Singlemode

100-240V 0.3A 100-240V 0.3A 50/60 Hz RS-232 50/60 Hz RS-232 RGB INPUT INPUT LOOP THRU PASS THRU FOX 500 TX RGB OUTPUT PASS THRU FOX 500 Rx RS232/RS422 ACT LINK RESET BI-LEVEL TRI-LEVEL

TX Rx NA OPTICAL TX Rx NA OPTICAL DISCONNECT BOTH POWER 2* 1 R G B AUDIO INPUTS 1 2* R G B AUDIO OUTPUTS CORDS BEFORE SERVICING RS-232 PRIMARY POWER SUPPLY REDUNDANT POWER SUPPLY RS-232 LINK LINK sidebar on the following page. LINK LINK L R CONTROL ALARM L R CONTROL ALARM OR H/HV V H V S RGB TX Rx 1 2 OPTIONAL FOR RGB TX Rx 1 2 OPTIONAL FOR *RETURN DATA *RETURN DATA REDUNDANT 100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX.

PRIMARY 100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX. ANAHEIM, CA All FOX Matrix Switchers are fully FOXBOX 4G VGA FOXBOX 4G DVI Transmitter Receiver Singlemode Singlemode

Tx Rx Tx Rx DVI AUDIO RGB AUDIO CONFIG CONFIG LINK LINK LINK compatible with FOX Series fiber optic LINK LINK FOXBOX 4G Tx VGA OPTICAL Singlemode Multimode FOXBOX 4G Rx DVI OPTICAL transmitters and receivers for sending

FOX HD-SDI FOX HD-SDI various analog and digital video formats. Transceiver Transceiver Multimode Singlemode

FOX HDSDI FOX HDSDI POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL 12V MODE 12V MODE 0.3A MAX 0.3A MAX

1 2 1 2 HD/SDI IN HD/SDI IN They also can be used with FOX Series TX Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS TX Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS switchers and distribution amplifiers to support localized switching and distribution off of the matrix switcher. Extron FOX Matrix Switchers are fully compatible with the FOX Series of transmitters and receivers for supporting various analog and digital video formats, as well as audio and RS-232. We’ve designed all FOX Matrix Switchers to deliver the switching capability to route video signals of the highest source In addition to high performance and extending various video signals including resolutions, together with audio and reliability, we’ve also designed our RGB computer-video, HDTV, DVI, bidirectional RS-232 control signals. FOX Matrix Switchers to be energy multi-rate SDI, and standard definition And since these products are commonly efficient with low power consumption. video. FOX Matrix Switchers represent used in mission-critical applications with the flagship of our FOX Series of fiber continuous operational requirements, Wide Bandwidth, Pixel-for-Pixel optic A/V products, and share our overall we’ve built in several features to ensure Performance design philosophy of engineering for full system reliability with the ability to Extron FOX Matrix Switchers are reliability and exceptional high resolution run 24 hours a day, seven days a week compatible with all FOX Series products image performance. without a complete system shutdown. including transmitters and receivers for Our FOX Matrix Switchers offer up to 4.25 Gbps digital switching capability for routing audio, control, and video signals with uncompressed, pixel- for-pixel throughput. With this level of performance, we can assure compatibility up to the highest source resolutions.

Modular Design for Future Expandability All Extron FOX Matrix Switchers feature a modular design with multiple board slots. Each slot accepts a FOX Series input/output board having ports populated with LC-type fiber optic connectors. Two versions of the board are available. The multimode version supports multimode fiber at FOX 4G Matrix 3200 850 nm, which is typically used within

2 ExtroNews 21.1 | Winter 2010 FOX FIBER OPTIC MATRIX SWITCHERS

1000 or Larger buildings or facilities with moderate- Multi-Rate SDI Signal Switching and range transmission distances of several Distribution 720 hundred meters or feet. The singlemode The FOX 4G Matrix 3200 and 7200 version supports singlemode as models also offer an optional multi- 576 well as multimode fiber at 1310 nm. rate SDI I/O board for connection to INPUTS Singlemode fiber offers long-range local multi-rate SDI-equipped devices 432 transmission capability over extreme in broadcast, medical, and other

320 • • • • • • • • distances of several kilometers or miles. applications where SDI is common. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • It is used in very large facilities such • • • • • • • • This board offers an 8x8 configuration • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • as hospitals and stadiums, and for for switching and distribution of multi- 320 432 576 720 1000 or Larger connecting over very long distances rate SDI signals up to 2.97 Gbps, OUTPUTS between facilities such as university including SDI, HD-SDI, and 3G-SDI. campuses. With this board, the FOX 4G Matrix Extron Matrix 1K - Large-Scale 3200 and 7200 can be configured Matrix Switcher Program Extron FOX Matrix Switchers can be as a dedicated multi-rate SDI matrix When it comes to large-scale matrix switching configured with all or some of the board switcher, or for a combination of solutions for fiber optic, digital, or analog slots occupied. The I/O boards are multi-rate SDI and fiber optic matrix signal routing applications, Extron has you hot-swappable and may be added at switching. The multi-rate SDI I/O board any time in the field for easy and quick is compliant with SMPTE 259M, 292M, covered. Through the Matrix 1K Program, you upgradeability or expansion in 8 or 424M, and ITU digital video standards. can create custom, scalable matrix switchers 16-port increments depending on the The board is hot-swappable, and in all common signal types with I/O sizes up model. A FOX Matrix Switcher also each input and output is individually to 1000 x 1000 and beyond. Extron Matrix accommodates any combination of buffered to maximize performance with 1K switchers are designed and engineered to singlemode or multimode I/O boards. virtually no crosstalk. To optimize SDI your specific project requirements. Matrix 1K For the FOX 4G Matrix Series, the signal transmission to and from the combination of singlemode and board, input signals are automatically digital and fiber optic matrix switchers start multimode I/O boards allows a equalized, and output signals are at 320x320, while Matrix 1K analog matrix multimode fiber link input to be routed reclocked. The FOX 4G Matrix 3200 switchers start at 128x128. Regardless of to a singlemode output, and and 7200 provide separate bi-level and the size you need, Extron Matrix 1K switchers vice versa. tri-level references for correct vertical work with the same ease of control and day interval switch timing. in, day out reliability you’ve come to expect A FOX Series transmitter and receiver from Extron. combination can send A/V and control The multi-rate SDI I/O board enhances signals up to 300 meters (985 feet) for system integration possibilities with multimode fiber, and up to 30 kilometers SDI-equipped devices in many ways. It To begin the process of configuring your (18.75 miles) over singlemode fiber. enables a local BNC connection to the Extron Matrix 1K switcher, contact your Extron With an Extron FOX Matrix Switcher FOX HD-SDI Fiber Optic Extender for customer support representative. An Extron in between a FOX Series transmitter Multi-Rate SDI. Incoming multi-rate SDI Applications Engineer will be assigned to your and receiver, transmission distance signals from the FOX HD-SDI can then project and will work with you to ensure your capability can be significantly enhanced. be routed to the board's BNC outputs, or through the fiber optic outputs to complete satisfaction. For example, a multimode transmitter remote FOX HD-SDI units. Similarly, sends signals up to 300 meters to the incoming fiber optic signals from the Matrix 1K Product Commissioning matrix switcher. The matrix switcher can FOX HD-SDI can be output on fiber Extron provides proactive, on-site product then retransmit these signals up to an or BNC. commissioning with every Matrix 1K additional 300 meters to the receiver. purchase. Matrix 1K commissioning provides However, the matrix switcher can also In broadcast and production you with an extra level of service, ensuring retransmit over one of its singlemode applications, a multi-rate SDI-equipped outputs to a receiver, located as far as FOX 4G Matrix 3200 or 7200, together that the system you design and install meets 30 kilometers away. with several FOX HD-SDI units, can be your expectations and those of your client.

continued on page 4

www.extron.com 3 SAVING ENERGY WITH EXTRON PRODUCTS FEA TURED PRODUCT

FOX Matrix Switchers — continued used to route signals to and from local editing equipment. At the same time, it provides the capability to receive or transmit multi-rate SDI signals very long distances over fiber to devices in

FOX HDSDI FOX HDSDI POWER OPTICAL POWER OPTICAL remote locations, such as cameras and 12V MODE 12V MODE 0.3A MAX 0.3A MAX

1 2 1 2 HD/SDI IN BUFFERED OUTPUTS HD/SDI IN Tx Rx Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS production monitors. FOX HD-SDI FOX HD-SDI

FOX HDSDI POWER OPTICAL 12V MODE 0.3A MAX

1 2 HD/SDI IN BUFFERED OUTPUTS OUT IN OUT IN OUT OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN Tx Rx 1 - 8 A B C D E F G H FOX HD-SDI ANAHEIM, CA Self-Monitoring and Hot-Swappable OUT OUT IN OUT IN OUT OUT IN OUT IN IN OUT IN OUT IN OUT IN 9 - 16 A B C D E F G H

A B C D E F G H A B C D E F G H

Extron FOX Matrix Switchers are 17 - 24 MUTI-RATE SDI INPUTS MUTI-RATE SDI OUTPUTS

A B C D E F G H A B C D E F G H FOX HDSDI POWER OPTICAL 12V MODE

0.3A MAX 25 - 32 MUTI-RATE SDI INPUTS MUTI-RATE SDI OUTPUTS 1 2 HD/SDI IN 100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX. PRIMARY POWER SUPPLY REDUNDANT POWER SUPPLY designed for optimum performance Tx Rx BUFFERED OUTPUTS RESET

FOX HD-SDI REDUNDANT REMOTE RS-232/RS-422 BI-LEVEL PRIMARY LAN CORDS BEFORE SERVICING and reliability in applications requiring DISCONNECT BOTH POWER MPEG IMX Digital BETACAM HDCAM High Deﬁnition

Video System TRI-LEVEL

HDCAM ACT LINK

POWER REMOTE EJECT SWITCH 1(9P) 2(50P) RS-232C 100-240V 50/60Hz 1.2A MAX. REFERENCE

PHONES

ASSEMBLE INSERT MULTI RECORDER SHUTTLE/VAR CONTROL VIDEO TC CH1 CH2 CH3 CH3 CUE JOG HD SDI HD SDI HD SDI HD SDI JOG TLE VA UT R PUSH/ PLAYER SH db db db db db SHIFT 0 0 0 0 0 FOX 4G Matrix 3200 10 10 10 10 10 ALARM E F 00:00:00:00 RS OR 20 20 20 20 20 CHANNEL E W KEY INHI EV A 30 30 30 30 30 CONDITION R R DISPLAY D 40 40 40 40 40 FULL/FINE RESET 50 50 50 50 50 continuous operations 24 hours a day, HOME F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6 LIST GOOD SHOT MARK TRIM REC EXT 1-4 L REC INHI REC/ PREROLL EDIT INPUT CH1 5 CH2 6 CH3 7 CH4 8 IMX CUE MONITOR ERASE IN AUDIO OUT REC 5-8 R STANDBY DMC EDIT DELETE MIXING ENTRY MEMORY REC REC REW PLAY F FWD STOP PREVIEW AUTO EDIT REVIEW CH1 5 CH2 6 CH3 7 CH4 8 CUE

PB PB IN OUT 7 days a week, such as in government, UNITY VARIABLE

military, and medical installations. A real- H

N O TI A C I N U M M Tx O C

N O TI A C I N U M Tx M time monitoring system continuously CO

MPEG IMX Digital BETACAM HDCAM High Deﬁnition HDCAM Video System

POWER REMOTE EJECT 1(9P) 2(50P) RS-232C provides self-diagnostics of the I/O PHONES

ASSEMBLE INSERT MULTI RECORDER SHUTTLE/VAR CONTROL VIDEO TC CH1 CH2 CH3 CH3 CUE JOG HD SDI HD SDI HD SDI HD SDI JOG E TL VAR PUSH/ PLAYER SHUT db db db db db SHIFT 0 0 0 0 0

10 10 10 10 10 ALARM E F 00:00:00:00 RS OR 20 20 20 20 20 CHANNEL E W KEY INHI EV A 30 30 30 30 30 CONDITION R R DISPLAY D 40 40 40 40 40 FULL/FINE RESET 50 50 50 50 50

HOME F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6

LIST GOOD SHOT MARK TRIM REC EXT 1-4 L REC INHI REC/ PREROLL EDIT INPUT CH1 5 CH2 6 CH3 7 CH4 8 IMX CUE MONITOR ERASE IN AUDIO OUT REC 5-8 R STANDBY DMC EDIT DELETE MIXING ENTRY MEMORY REC REC boards, fiber links, power supplies, REW PLAY F FWD STOP PREVIEW AUTO EDIT REVIEW CH1 5 CH2 6 CH3 7 CH4 8 CUE

PB PB IN OUT

UNITY VARIABLE internal fans, and general functions of the switcher. LED indicators on each I/O board provide a quick verification of input signal presence as well as the status of fiber links with the transmitters and receivers. Extron FOX Matrix When equipped with optional multi-rate SDI I/O boards, the FOX 4G Matrix 3200 and 7200 can be used to route signals to and from local SDI equipment over coax cables, while also providing the capability Switchers can be configured to trigger to receive or transmit multi-rate SDI signals very long distances over fiber optic cables using the an external control system or generate FOX HD-SDI. e-mail alerts when an inbound fiber link has been lost. fully-loaded, they draw less power than Building High Capacity A/V Systems for Each I/O board is hot-swappable so comparable fiber optic matrix switchers. Today and the Future that the matrix switcher can be serviced Fiber optics has become increasingly or reconfigured without interrupting all We were able to achieve this through popular as the medium for large signal routing by powering down the an efficient enclosure design and the capacity A/V systems with high unit. The Extron FOX 4G Matrix Series careful selection of high quality, long- bandwidth video requirements. A fiber also includes, as a standard feature, life electronic components, along with optic-based infrastructure for A/V hot-swappable power supplies to highly efficient, cool-running power will today support all common video ensure continuous, uninterrupted power. supplies. This energy efficiency results in formats as well as the highest resolution Also standard are hot-swappable fans a dramatic reduction in heat generation requirements, and will continue to to maintain continuous cooling. SMX and power consumption as it relates to support evolving resolutions and formats System MultiMatrix models are available the product itself and the air conditioning into the future. Extron FOX Matrix with a redundant power supply. needed within the equipment room. Low Switchers are designed to serve at the heat generation and power consumption heart of such systems, delivering the Energy Efficient Matrix Switchers translate to a lower cost of ownership performance and reliability demanded Fiber optic matrix switchers generally and also an increased product lifespan. for these installations, together with the have to be powered continuously, and an Furthermore, FOX Matrix Switchers adaptability to future system expansion inefficient matrix switcher design, running save valuable rack space with compact needs and technologies. 24/7 can easily incur significant energy enclosure designs, and side-to-side air costs. FOX Matrix Switchers feature an circulation so that no extra ventilation advanced, energy-efficient design with space is necessary above or below the low power consumption. Even when matrix switcher.

4 ExtroNews 21.1 | Winter 2010 FEA TURED PRODUCT

TLP 350CV TouchLink™ 3.5" Cable Cubby® Touchpanel Furniture-Mountable Touchscreen With Cable Management and A/V Connectivity

he new Extron TLP 350CV TouchLink™ 3.5" Cable Cubby® Touchpanel features an elegant, metal enclosure for system Tcontrol and cable management that can be mounted securely into a tabletop or other flat surface. In addition to the tilt- up, full-color touchscreen, the ten customizable backlit buttons provide expanded control capabilities to ensure that critical functions are easily accessible. The TLP 350CV enables integrators to deploy a fully configurable touchscreen control system with easy access to A/V connectivity and power onto any desk or table. The TLP 350CV is available with a black anodized or brushed aluminum finish to blend seamlessly into high-profile surroundings, mounting nearly flush with the surface when not in use.

Fully Configurable, Easy-to-Use The IPL 250 is configured using Extron’s Touchpanel with Backlit Buttons Global Configurator software. The 3.5” touchscreen features a 320x240 resolution and supports 256k colors. The Numerous Options for A/V, Data, and touchscreen’s full motion video window Power Connectivity can be configured for use as a preview, Within its base, the confidence monitor, or security camera TLP 350CV monitor. Ten customizable backlit buttons accommodates up to are also configurable and the built-in nine single-space AAP speaker provides audible feedback when - Architectural Adapter Plates. Extron a button is pressed. An auto dimming offers a wide variety of AAPs with audio, feature adjusts touchscreen brightness video, phone, data, control, and AC place. After use, the cable retracts smoothly as room lighting changes. The lid switch power connections. The elevation and and effortlessly with the push of a button. activates the touchscreen when the lid arrangement of the AAPs inside the The Retractor is available in versions to is opened and deactivates when closed TLP 350CV are adjustable to suit various support most A/V and data signal types for energy savings. When the lid is open, cable lengths and connector types. including VGA, Network, PC Audio, USB, interior LED lighting provides lighting for Cables can be stored out of sight while DVI, or HDMI. Up to three Retractor connectors and the power access area in remaining connected to the A/V system, modules can be installed side by side within a dark room. offering a discreet way to access cables the TLP 350CV. and connection points as they are needed. IPL 250 Ethernet Controller Models are available with AC power outlets New GUI Configurator Software The TLP 350CV is compatible with the suitable for US, Europe, and other major Extron GUI Configurator software is new Extron IPL 250 Ethernet controller world markets. an intuitive design tool that simplifies to create a complete TouchLink™ creating and maintaining user interfaces configurable touchpanel control system Cable Retractor Option for the TLP 350CV touchscreen, even for intuitive in-room system control, The new Extron Retractor is a unique, for those without graphic design skills. as well as Web-based resource patent-pending cable retraction and Getting started is fast and simple with our management and remote monitoring. management system that can be installed ready-to-use customizable templates. The IPL 250 provides vital A/V system in the TLP 350CV. The Retractor provides a Simply select the template that best control capabilities, including three discreet, convenient solution for accessing suits the application. In many cases, all bidirectional serial ports, four IR ports, A/V cable connections and then storing the input sources, display control, and four relays, and four contact closure them effectively. Users pull the end of the environmental settings are already in inputs for interfacing with displays, cable from the system, which extends up place. Each template is fully developed switchers, sources, screen control, to three feet (90 cm). When pulled to the and includes complete, detailed lighting systems, and other devices. desired length, the cable is held securely in documentation of its application and

continued on page 6

www.extron.com 5 FEA TURED PRODUCT

TLP 350CV TouchLink ™ 3.5" Cable Cubby ® Touchpanel — continued

Ready To Use Templates

Divisible Room Dual Display Room Multi-Image System

Single Display Room Video Conference Suite Video Conference Suite

capabilities. If any modification is required, also enable users to start from scratch systems. We offer a library of thousands GUI Configurator software’s user-friendly to create fully customized GUI layouts. of tested and documented device drivers drag-and-drop interface simplifies adding and extensive online and instructor-led or removing sources and other system The Extron Configurable Approach training. devices. The TLP 350CV is the latest offering in Extron’s TouchLink product line to ship. The Extron configuration approach Ready-To-Use Templates TouchLink was designed from the ground simplifies the development of powerful GUI Configurator includes ready-to- up to be the first fully configuration-based control systems, allowing them to be use templates created for popular touchpanel control system. deployed quickly and easily. In addition, A/V system applications. While the configured systems are easier to modify templates help speed up and simplify In addition to our hardware and software, for new system devices, lowering the total the implementation of a TouchLink we are also committed to providing cost of ownership. control system in the most common the highest level of support to help our applications, the powerful design resellers successfully design, integrate, capabilities of GUI Configurator software and configure Extron configurable control

GUI Configurator Global Configurator

6 ExtroNews 21.1 | Winter 2010 FEA TURED PRODUCT THE EXTRON HOTLINE

By Casey Hall, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for North America

Extron Insiders Enjoy Exclusive Membership Benefits

e are pleased to introduce our new Extron Insider web site. This new web site is an Wimprovement of the Reseller-, Consultant-, and Educator-Only Web sites. If you are an Extron reseller, consultant, or educator and you already have an Extron login, then you automatically qualify. Your current login will not change, and you can immediately start enjoying Extron Insider benefits. All Extron Insiders enjoy around-the-clock, full access to an exclusive area of our Web site containing a wealth of information, configuration software, drivers, and online tools. Extron Insider membership is free, but only Extron customers can join.

Different levels of Extron Insider access • Product pricing Information How do you join? exist according to your functional role and • Access to Extron Certification programs If you are an Extron customer, and your relationship with Extron. For example, • Product availability status do not currently have an Extron login, resellers are the only group allowed to • Access to download Global call your Extron S3 Customer Support view "reseller pricing," but share benefits Configurator, GUI Configurator, and Representative today at 800.633.9876. A such as order status, and configuration DSP Configurator customer representative will gladly answer software and driver downloads with other • Product configuration tools any questions you have, and provide you groups within the Program. We have • Specialized online training with a personalized Extron Insider login. taken extra care to provide all Extron • Product and training videos Insider members with precisely what they • Technical bulletins need for their jobs. • Advanced notification of special events and tradeshow activities We are continually adding to the list of • Quick, online repair status Extron Insider privileges which currently • Virtual tradeshow access include: • Special offers and promotions

INSIDER

24/7 Order Placement Exclusive Software Downloads

System Configurators www.extron.com 7 THE EXTRON HOTLINE UNIQUE TECHNIQUES

By Jeff Gibson, Vice President of International Sales and Marketing

Extron Mobile Enables Convenient Web Access

n our continuing effort to provide our customers with the information you need quickly and easily, Iwe recently created a mobile Web site for Web-enabled mobile devices. Extron Mobile is designed for small screens and loads information quickly for fast and easy viewing in the field. It provides essential Extron product information, including product pricing and availability, in a familiar, easy- to-read format. From the Extron Mobile home page, you can login and search for products by keyword or select from a dropdown product list. When using the search feature, a results page will automatically provide the most relevant links. The dropdown menu allows you to navigate directly to a product page that provides part numbers, key features, photos, and specifications. With a login, you also have access to pricing, user manuals, application diagrams, and panel drawings for nearly every product.

The Extron Mobile home page provides predecessor, offers the most important toll-free numbers for Extron U.S. and features of Extron's regular Web site. The international offices. On many devices, iPhone version is presented in a format you can click the phone number to initiate that has been optimized for browsing on a call. In addition, you can contact Extron the larger touchscreens of the iPhone and using the "Send an Email" feature, and an other smart phones. The familiar intuitive Extron representative will get back to you design makes it easy for users to find right away. what they are looking for.

New iPhone Optimized Web Site Other features of the iPhone optimized Our latest addition to Extron Mobile Web site: is an iPhone version, which, like its • An enhanced search feature provides suggestions and recalls your most-used searches • iPhones and other smart-phone devices We’ve also added an Extron Virtual will automatically be detected and Tradeshow of new products that can be redirected to the iPhone version of the accessed from Extron Mobile. site, with the option to visit our regular Extron Mobile features that will be added Web site. in the future include online videos and mobile versions of Extron's PoleVault System Configurator, Connectivity Configurator, and other popular Extron product configurators.

Visit mobile.extron.com or mobile.extron. com/iphone to see for yourself how easy it is to access the Extron Web site from your mobile device. In addition, we just completed two short videos that you can view on your PC. These videos also demonstrate just how easy it is to access Extron Mobile from your iPhone or Android-based mobile device.

8 ExtroNews 21.1 | Winter 2010 UNIQUE TECHNIQUES

Transit System Successfully Implements A/V Communication System Using Extron MAV Plus Matrix Switchers

s digital technology continues to find its way into more and more A/V systems, it’s interesting discoverto Aapplications where analog composite video is still the best choice for the job. One recent example of this involves a particularly challenging installation of audio and video surveillance systems on thirty-four light rail vehicles belonging to the GCRTA – Greater Cleveland Rapid Transit Authority. While there may be no such thing as a routine rail car install, the unique requirements and complex logistics for this particular project quickly narrowed the field of interested integrators. Among other requirements, the project called for each of 34 LRVs – Light Rail Vehicles to be equipped with wireless color video transmission and recording, wireless intercoms, and an automated switching and control infrastructure. The integrator, Doan Pyramid LLC, chose Extron to provide all of the matrix switching and audio amplification for this project.

LRVs - Light Rail Vehicles are assembled each The Operator's cabin features a touchscreen Passengers rely on wireless voice and video to morning into trains consisting of up to three LRVs quad-view display from which the Operator can communicate to the train Operator. depending on projected passenger volume. initiate two-way communication with passengers.

The Communication Challenge DVRs. Between the safety and security between vehicles traveling through all Each morning, rail yard workers assemble requests, the GCRTA posed several A/V types of transmission conditions and trains by linking up to three LRVs based challenges that Doan Pyramid LLC was capture all audio and video from up to 24 on the anticipated passenger volume eager to solve. cameras per train to an on-board security for a particular route. Unlike most rail system.” cars, LRVs are designed to work as The Solutions stand-alone trains or to work as part of Due to the trains’ modular design, there One of the first hurdles was planning for a modular train comprised of up to three was no way to route cable between the high-bandwidth video transmission. “We units. Because of this modular design, LRVs. Electrical connections resided chose MPEG2 compression because, the LRVs are not equipped with front within the train couplings, but there was even though it requires more bandwidth and rear inter-compartment doors, so no room to integrate A/V communications than some other CODECs, it has no there is no way to walk between them. into this system. At this point, with no latency,” Fortney says. Zero latency was There is also no built-in provision for cabling options, digital video transmission essential because this project required inter-compartment communication. A was ruled out. Douglas Fortney, Doan real-time communication via the cameras passenger isolated in LRV #2 or #3 had no Pyramid's Lead Designer on this project, and intercom stations. The only way to way of communicating with the operator was forced to think about what could be make this wireless network successful in LRV #1. done with analog composite video and was to manage bandwidth and control wireless A/V transmission. “We [Doan the number of signals sent at once. "We The Security Challenge Pyramid] love challenging wireless video had to do a lot of work to get the packet The GCRTA also requested that the new projects like this, but there was more to size correct so that the packets didn't A/V system integrate a security system in this than assembling a secure, wireless collapse the wireless network," Fortney which video feeds from all eight cameras video system," Fortney says. "We had says. "We finally dialed it all in and, boy, in each LRV are recorded onto dedicated to ensure uninterrupted communication was that a moment to celebrate."

continued on page 10

www.extron.com 9 UNIQUE TECHNIQUES UNIQUE TECHNIQUES

Transit System Successfully Implements A/V Communication System Using... — continued

Communication Flow Diagram Step by step example of how intercom audio and camera video travels from car to car in an event when the Call Box button is pressed by a passenger.

Passenger Wireless Wireless Wireless A/V A/V A/V Call Passenger Operator

Car 3 Car 2 Car 1

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 A passenger in The local MAV Plus The encoded A/V The MPEG2-encoded A/V Car 3 presses the matrix switcher in signal is routed to signal is received by Car 1. “Call” button. Car 3 routes video to Car 1 via wireless the local MPEG2 Ethernet. After the signal is decoded, encoder. video is routed by the local MAV Plus matrix switcher in Car 1 to the train operator's touchpanel. Audio is routed to the operator’s handset, allowing direct communication with the passenger.

Block Diagram of Equipment for Each Car

Cameras Call Passenger

Wireless A/V

MPEG 2 Decoder 1

MPEG 2 Decoder 2

INPUTS OUTPUTS 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 SYNC

LISTED 1T23 C U S I.T.E. 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 RESET LAN REMOTE RS232/RS422

MAV Plus 1616 V

Pnfjgkg Smknbkbxf SV R- 2000

MPEG 2 Encoder 8 Channel DVR

Passenger

Multi-Window PIP Operator Operator’s Operator’s Touchpanel 1 Touchpanel 2

10 ExtroNews 21.1 | Winter 2010 UNIQUE TECHNIQUES

The compact size of the MPA amps, their low power consumption, and minimal heat output made them perfect for this application."

There was also an issue of echoes generated between the speakers and the microphone. The outboard DSP handles this challenge. "The microphone signals from the call boxes are sent to the acoustic echo and noise cancellation unit, then on to the Extron MAV Plus 1616 V MPA amplifier, and that’s what’s driving the speakers at the volumes we need," Fortney Enter the MAV Plus says. “We used the MAV Plus to help control Fortney elaborates on the quad-display bandwidth requirements for A/V over the signal distribution: “In a typical three-LRV The camera mounted above the call box wireless network,” says Fortney. “That way, train configuration, we have all three 16x16 provides real-time video to the train operator we were able to transmit only the video MAV Plus units, one per LRV, managing who can quickly assess the situation based and audio signal we needed, and nothing the four pictures in the quad PIP processor on both audio and visual information within more.” When a passenger presses the which are routed to the operator’s the LRV. Once a passenger initiates a call, intercom button, the train’s control system touchpanel controller. The operator can the operator's quad view display converts identifies the camera tied to that call box, touch any one of those four pictures and to a single video display showing the and the MAV Plus routes the selected the view he touches will appear full- feed from the call box camera. During the video and audio directly to the operator screen. When this happens, the MAV Plus communication, a red light on the call box if the passenger is in the same train car switches from sending the PIP signal to lets the passenger know that video is being as the operator. If the passenger is in a just sending the full screen video of the sent to the operator. "This helps reassure different LRV, video and audio are routed to chosen view.” This all happens without passengers that the operator is fully aware of the local MPEG2 encoder, and transmitted interrupting the DVR, which is recording any situation within the LRV," Fortney says. wirelessly to the operator in Car #1. directly from the MAV Plus on eight dedicated outputs, one for each of the The Bottom Line The Quad Display LRV’s cameras. “This is a good example of When asked how the system works, and Because each LRV is equipped with why the MAV Plus is a crucial component if the GCRTA is happy with the results, eight separate cameras and space is within the system. We’re able to manage Fortney gives an unequivocal "Yes." He limited, Fortney designed the operator’s our wireless network bandwidth effectively, adds, "We are just finishing the last train touchpanel with a quad picture display. without compromising the security of the now, and the first one we finished has When the train is stopped and the doors passengers or the quality of the recorded been in service for about one year. It's open, the operator sees only the exterior video signal.” been performing very, very well, and the door cameras; once the train is in motion, GCRTA is quite pleased." the operator’s view switches to the Intercom Amplification interior cameras. Fortney and his team When it came to voice communication, designed the system so that the video Fortney's team knew that standard intercoms signals are first routed from the MAV Plus wouldn't suffice in this environment, so through the PIP processor, and then the they designed enhanced call boxes. These output of the processor is then routed call boxes house special microphones and back into the MAV Plus as a separate, dynamic, high-powered speakers designed combined input signal. “This allowed the to overcome the ambient noise aboard the PIP to ‘live’ within the MAV Plus,” Fortney trains. Extron MPA 181T power amplifiers says. “We send the output of the PIP provide intercom application. "We chose processor back into the matrix so that Extron amplifiers because we needed close The compact size and low heat output of the Extron MPA 181T mono power amplifiers made the PIP view could be sent where it’s to 95 dB SPL in order for the voices to be them a perfect choice for the small equipment needed.” heard over the custom call box speakers. enclosures on each LRV.

The MPA 181T has now been replaced by the MPA 401, a 40 watt ENERGY STAR® Qualified amplifier. www.extron.com 11 DIGIT AL CONNECTION

DRM for the A/V Professional

RM - Digital Rights Management is used by owners and holders of intellectual property to enforce restrictions on Dthe use of their copyrighted content. In the A/V industry, DRM is used to secure digital music and video content to prevent unauthorized playback or copying. For digital video content protection, the most prevalent DRM systems are HDCP - High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection, and AACS - Advanced Access Content System. HDCP is an encryption protocol applied to digital interfaces including HDMI, DVI, and DisplayPort. AACS is a standard for encrypting high definition optical discs that also works in conjunction with HDCP.

DRM exists to protect the rights of in public spaces. Therefore, users should known as the sink. The source uses the content creators and owners to receive be made aware of the potential issues that initial handshake protocol to determine compensation for their initial ideas and may arise from inadvertent public display of that these system size restrictions are not subsequently bringing them to market. private-use, content-protected materials. violated. HDCP version 1.3 is the currently Movies and music are the most recognized During system commissioning and training, implemented specification. As will soon be source content within the A/V industry the integrator should consider educating discussed, the latest version, HDCP 2.0, that is impacted by DRM enforcement. An system operators, and even include further restricts the allowable maximum individual who purchased a copy-protected discussion of DRM and content protection number of simultaneous devices and Blu-ray Disc, for example, is entitled to within system documentation. Of course, repeater levels. utilize that disc only within a personal-use this is not as much of an issue for residential environment, which extends to the home or installations, where the entire system is 2. Content Encryption: After the source other private viewing locale. For that movie generally intended for personal use. authenticates that all downstream devices to be played in a public space, additional are HDCP compliant and in good standing, licensing requirements must first be met. HDCP and AACS – Separate DRM and that no system size restrictions are If that licensing has not been obtained, Protocols That Work Together violated, the source sends encrypted video significant fines can be levied against the HDCP is designed to prevent unauthorized downstream. The source periodically revises offender. These fines may very well extend to access of protected video content and to the encryption key for the video as an the owner of the installed system. enforce restrictions on authorized playback. additional security measure. HDCP-enabled video sources, such as A/V systems in public spaces are the center Blu-ray Disc players, PCs, and other digital 3. Renewability: Since HDCP relies on of our industry, with installations taking place media devices, always undergo a three- digital encryption using secret keys, the on a daily basis. It is for this reason that step process to protect the video from system can be circumvented if the secret DRM considerations must be made and unauthorized access: keys residing in HDCP-licensed products addressed at the earliest point of system fall into the wrong hands. Therefore, a design. The time when needs are being 1. Authentication: The video source means has to be established to revoke assessed for an A/V integration project is determines that all devices connected to its any compromised keys. The HDCP also the time to determine the functional outputs are authorized and able to receive administration authority, Digital Content requirements of a given system. This is encrypted video. This is accomplished by Protection, LLP can add a list of public keys when the sales engineer should ask the means of an initial authorization handshake of compromised products to video content right questions and inform the prospective protocol, where cryptographic public keys, such as Blu-ray Disc. Video sources will read customer on the legalities involved with KSV - Key Selection Vector, and this data, store it in non-volatile memory, and personal-use devices and/or material being encrypted messages are exchanged compare the public keys of any downstream used in public and commercial spaces. The between the source and the downstream devices against this revocation list. If any key old, familiar adage of “Just because one can, devices connected to its outputs. The matches, no video will be transmitted. doesn’t mean one should” is fully appropriate HDCP 1.3 specification calls for a maximum in this case. HDCP-compliant systems are of 127 simultaneous devices connected Figures 1 and 2 on page 14 provide a step- increasingly being requested by customers downstream from the source, and up to by-step illustration of the communications and integrators alike. This type of system seven allowable levels of repeater devices that occur between source and sink devices could be used to show protected content between the source and the display - also within an HDCP-based system.

12 ExtroNews 21.1 | Winter 2010 DIGIT AL CONNECTION

DRM for the A/V Professional — continued

Blu-ray Discs HDCP 1.x HDCP 2.0 DVDs (CSS) (AACS) Authentication: Data security industry Data security industry Encryption Specialized 40-bit standard AES 128-bit standard RSA 1024 and Method stream cipher Specialized 56-bit 3072-bit asymmetric symmetric system Encryption symmetric system used system Player All players in a model Individual players can Method for both authentication Revocation range are revoked be revoked and video encryption Video encryption: Data security industry Hidden disc lead-in area Encrypted volume ID standard AES 128-bit Disc Copy prevents bit-for-bit disc prevents bit-for-bit disc symmetric system Prevention copy copy Applicable Any two-way digital DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort HDCP applied at digital Interfaces interface Output Signal Macrovision applied at outputs Maximum Scrambling analog outputs Macrovision applied at Downstream < 128 < 32 analog outputs Receivers for Each Transmitter Authorized copies are possible by connecting Managed No provisions to AACSLA server and Maximum Disc Copying Repeater obtaining permission < 7 < 4 Levels for Each (details to be finalized) Transmitter Players manufactured Yes, using specialized after 2010 may not Backward Yes, no electronic electronic HDCP-1.x- have high definition Compatibility components required to-2.0 and HDCP-2.0- analog outputs to-1.x converters Analog Sunset No provisions Players manufactured Explicitly specified with after 2013 may not Wireless Not specified new locality check have any analog Support requirement outputs

Table 1. Major changes in HDCP 2.0 Table 2. Differences between CSS and AACS encryption

The multi-step process of HDCP is in the types of physical A/V connections. repeaters is reduced to four. As a result of authentication can take several seconds HDCP version 1.0 applied to the DVI all these changes, HDCP 2.0 is not directly to complete. This is a primary reason for interface. Version 1.1 incorporated HDMI, backward compatible with HDCP 1.x. The the perceived sluggishness of some digital and support for DisplayPort was added new specification provides for converters video systems, especially during startup for version 1.3. With the release of version between HDCP 1.x and HDCP 2.0 devices and when video signals are switched or re- 2.0, HDCP became interface-independent, to support mixed A/V systems with devices routed, requiring HDCP re-authentication. and can be applied to any two-way that comply with both versions. An existing The best switching performance digital transmission between sources and A/V system incorporating HDCP 1.3 can be realized in HDCP-compatible displays, wired or wireless, compressed or will require converters if newly acquired video equipment built to minimize re- uncompressed. See Table 1. HDCP 2.0 devices are to be incorporated authentication through careful internal into the system. design and proper deployment of HDCP HDCP 2.0 calls for many other important processing components. changes. For wireless connections, AACS is the DRM standard adopted for HDCP 2.0 adds a locality check to the Blu-ray Disc. AACS is designed to protect The HDCP standard was greatly revised authentication protocol, to ensure that Blu-ray Disc content similar to the way in October 2008 with the release of HDCP only devices nearby will be able to receive that the CSS - Content Scramble System 2.0. Subsequently, in May 2009, HDMI protected content. Furthermore, HDCP 2.0 protects commercial DVDs, but with 1.4 was released, but did not call for replaces the specialized 56-bit HDCP 1.x additional features. Both AACS and CSS compatibility with HDCP 2.0. At this point, encryption scheme with two standard encrypt the video data on-disc, so that only the timing for products to adopt the HDCP algorithms from the data security industry: authorized players can read the content. 2.0 standard is uncertain. for authentication, an RSA system with See Table 2. Both AACS and CSS prevent 1024 and 3072-bit keys; and for content unauthorized copying of commercial Blu-ray Until the introduction of HDCP 2.0, the encryption, a 128-bit AES - Advanced Disc and DVD, and both systems have basic protocol of HDCP had not changed Encryption System. In addition, the mechanisms for revoking compromised substantially. The only major differences maximum number of connected devices is players. AACS offers greater protection than between HDCP versions 1.0 through 1.3 reduced to 32, and the maximum level of CSS in the following areas:

continued on page 14

www.extron.com 13 DIGIT AL CONNECTION

DRM for the A/V Professional — continued

Communication process that occurs between source and sink devices within an HDCP-based system. PhasePhase 1 1 PhasePhase 2 2

Initial KeyInitial Exchange Key Exchange Initial KeyInitial Exchange Key Exchange

You haveYou 100ms have 100ms Here’s myHere’s public my public REPEATER!? to get thru this key Bksv: REPEATER!? HDCP to get thru this key Bksv: You haveYou 5 seconds have 5 seconds Here’s my public HDCP Here’s my public key 001100...001100... to tell me who’s Here’s my public Tx Tx Here’s my public keyI’m NOT a repeater to tell me who’s key Bksvkey: Bksv: Aksv: 101101...Aksv: 101101... I’m NOT a repeater downstreamdownstream 001100... Remember this number Here’s myHere’s public my public 001100... • Remember this number key Aksv: I’m a REPEATERI’m a REPEATER • An: 010011...An: 010011... key Aksv: 101101...101101... • • HDCP HDCP• Rx Rx • • • Data Data Data • Data Transmitting • TransmittingTransmitting Transmitting HDCP HDCP Tx Tx CalculateCalculate Shared Shared Secret Secret Keys Keys RepeaterRepeater Performs Performs Initial AuthenticationInitial Authentication with Connected with Connected Devices Devices Your publicYour key public key - Downstream - Downstream Device Device Keys are Keys Collected are Collected checks out.checks Now out. I can Now I can computecompute the secret the secret key Km fromkey Kmour from our public keys*:public keys*: 1110100...1110100... HDCP HDCP Phase 1 Phase 1 Tx Tx Authentication Now I can Authentication Now I can ProcedureProcedure • computecompute the secret the secret (Described • key Km’ from our (Described Phase 1 key Km’ from our Before) Before) • • Phase 1 public keys*:public keys*: AuthenticationAuthentication HDCP HDCP Procedure • 1110100...1110100... Rx • • Procedure • Rx• (Described(Described • •Before) Before) • * Km and Km’* Km are and computed Km’ are computed using each using device’s each private device’s key private along keywith along the public with the keys public of both keys of both • devices. This devices. is a special This is calculationa special calculation that results that in matchingresults in matchingKm=Km’ IFKm=Km’ all the keys IF all are the valid. keys are valid. • • • Encrypt a Message Using Secret Key • • Encrypt a Message Using Secret Key HDCP HDCP Tx Tx

Now I canNow use I MYcan use MY secret keysecret Km to key Km to encrypt Anencrypt to form An a to form a message RO: message RO: RepeaterRepeater Reports Reports Key List Key and List Topology and Topology 0000110...0000110... Here are the keys of Now I canNow use I canMy use My Here are the keys of HDCP HDCP secret key Km’ to downstreamdownstream devices: devices: Tx secret key Km’ to 0010011... Tx encrypt Anencrypt to form An a to form a 0010011... message RO’: . . message RO’: . • • 0000110...0000110...... • 0001100... • 0001100... HDCP Data Data HDCP• Transmitting Rx • TransmittingHere is howHere they is how are they are Rx Receiver Demonstrates Secret Key Knowledge connected: • Receiver Demonstrates Secret Key Knowledge connected:Sink • Sink • Sink • Here is an encrypted Repeater Sink Here is an encrypted RepeaterSink Sink HDCP messagemessage RO’: RO’: HDCP Sink Tx 0000110...0000110... Sink Tx

TransmitterTransmitter Validates Validates Connections Connections

HDCP √ You were ready to give me HDCP √ You were ready to give me Tx Tx downstream info in less Data Data downstream info in less • TransmittingTransmitting than 5 seconds. than 5 seconds. • • √ The downstream√ The downstream device device • keys haven’t been revoked. HDCP HDCP keys haven’t been revoked. Rx • • Initial AuthenticationInitial Authentication Rx √ There√ are There less arethan less 128 than 128 • • total downstream total downstream devices. devices. • Your encrypted • Your encrypted √ There√ are There less arethan less 7 levels than 7 levels messagemessage matches matches HDCP mine, and you gave it of repeaters of repeaters connected connected HDCP mine, and you gave it Tx Tx to me in lessto me than in less than downstream. downstream. 100ms 100ms

RepeaterRepeater Authentication Authentication Complete Complete

OK, here OK,is your here is your encryptedencrypted video: video: 0110001100 OK, here OK,is your here is your HDCP 0110001100 encrypted video: HDCP00110111100011011110 encrypted video: Tx Tx1110000010 11111111001111111100 1110000010 0001101110...0001101110... Transmit Video 00110011010011001101 • • Transmit Video 10111000101011100010 1000000001...1000000001... • • Separately Encrypted OK, here is your encrypted video: HDCP HDCP• Separately Encrypted• • OK, here is your encrypted video: Rx • Data TransmittingData Transmitting 11111111001111111100 0011001101 0011001101 Rx • • 10111000101011100010 100000001 100000001 • • 00011110000001111000 000100000 000100000 • • 1111000100 0011000100 • • 1111000100 0011000100 OK, here is your 01111101100111110110 1011000010... 1011000010... OK, here is your • • HDCP HDCPencryptedencrypted video: video: Data Tx Tx11111111001111111100 Data 1011100010 TransmittingTransmitting 1011100010 00011110000001111000 1111000100...1111000100... Data Data TransmittingTransmitting

Figure 1 Figure 2

14 ExtroNews 21.1 | Winter 2010 DIGIT AL CONNECTION

• AACS employs AES 128-bit encryption, Computers a hard drive, or even a display with Internet while CSS implements 40-bit encryption There are numerous DRM schemes for access capability. The one constant among • AACS allows for the revocation of computers. The computer industry is a all these different options is the existence of individual Blu-ray Disc players, whereas major source of innovation for content DRM for protected content, which is used CSS can only revoke entire models of creation as well as for unauthorized to restrict the allowable viewing duration DVD players reproduction of that content. Computer of “rented” video content and the ability to • AACS encrypts the digital outputs of DRM methods have been devised to transfer the video to different computers. In Blu-ray Disc players with HDCP protect software, digital music, digital the case of protected HD video downloads, • AACS provides for the eventual video, digital books, games, etc. The HDCP support is required on any device elimination of analog video outputs on present discussion will be limited to video that is playing the video. Therefore, a Blu-ray Disc players content played on a computer and the display with digital video inputs must associated DRM schemes therein. These support HDCP, if a user expects to connect The final AACS specification will include a DRM schemes are mainly for preventing a computer to it and play downloaded provision for making authorized copies of unauthorized access to protected commercial HD content. Blu-ray Discs, whereby a recording device commercial video such as Blu-ray Disc or can connect to Internet servers at the downloaded content including movies or TV Conclusion AACS LA - AACS Licensing Administrator shows. But non-commercial video files can Any A/V system that is intended to support to obtain electronic permission to make a also be protected with DRM, if the content playback of protected video content, such legitimate copy of protected content. creator has access to DRM technology. as Blu-ray Disc and consumer-purchased The DVI, HDMI, and DisplayPort outputs of HD video downloads, must be compliant Analog Outputs computers should have no DRM restrictions with the associated DRM. Since DRM The HDCP licensing agreement does not when the content being played is not implementations such as HDCP and allow for analog video outputs on repeater protected. AACS are meant to restrict what the end or display devices, but does not restrict user can do with protected content, it analog outputs for sources. Nonetheless, As of the fourth quarter of 2009, for Blu-ray makes sense for the A/V professional to this does not preclude separate agreements Disc playback, only PCs running Windows® inform the end user of these restrictions that would prevent analog outputs on operating systems have software authorized at the outset. Such restrictions include source devices. Such agreements could to play Blu-ray Discs. The same AACS and limiting the number of simultaneous be negotiated on an ad hoc basis between HDCP restrictions apply for PC Blu-ray Disc displays for content-protected video content providers and hardware makers. playback as for standalone players. Thus, playback, disallowing recording or a PC must be equipped with a video card copying, and disabling analog outputs. However, the AACS licensing agreement that is capable of HDCP encryption. An For example, an A/V system may have is very specific about analog outputs and A/V device with digital video inputs must the capability to distribute HDMI video provides for several measures to control support HDCP, if a user expects to connect to 16 displays and provide analog video them. Blu-ray Disc titles that support AACS such a PC to it and play commercial recording. These functions will always be have usage rules data embedded in them Blu-ray Discs. available when a PC with HDMI output is that allow the content producer to limit the connected for PowerPoint presentations analog output resolution by invoking the ICT The market for authorized downloads of and other non-protected material. But - Image Constraint Token, or even to disable commercial video content is crowded with once a protected Blu-ray Disc is inserted the analog outputs entirely by invoking the companies and products, with frequent into the PC for playback, HDCP and AACS DOT - Digital Only Token. As of the fourth turnover of market entries and exits. Current restrictions may disable output to several quarter of 2009, no Blu-ray Disc titles have market players include Amazon, Apple displays and to the recorder. included these restriction tokens, but this iTunes, Blockbuster, Netflix, and Vudu, to may change with future releases. The AACS name just a few. These companies offer a Since many large-scale A/V systems can license agreement also provides for an plethora of options for the end user. Movies display unencrypted video on a large “analog sunset” for newly manufactured or TV shows can be rented or purchased, number of displays, freely distribute analog Blu-ray Disc players, such that models some in high definition, but most in signals, and provide video recording manufactured after 2010 can only include standard definition. The video may be either capabilities, end users of such systems standard definition analog outputs, and streamed or stored locally to a computer, must be made aware that some system after 2013, no Blu-ray Disc players may be a networked set-top receiver, Blu-ray Disc functions may not be available when manufactured with any analog outputs. player, a video game console equipped with playing DRM-protected content.

www.extron.com 15 TECH CORNER TECH CORNER

Using Extron EDID Manager to Identify and Troubleshoot Display Connectivity Problems

DID - Extended Display Identification Data exchange is a standardized means for a display to communicate its Ecapabilities, such as its native resolution, to the attached source device, which then generates the necessary video characteristics to match the needs of the display. When successful, EDID exchange maximizes functional compatibility between devices, helping to ensure optimal image quality as well as overall system reliability.

However, this data exchange often is not successful. The implementation Here are the EDID of EDID for display devices varies capabilities of the HDMI widely, and in some cases, displays connected display lack EDID information altogether. Such HDTV inconsistencies can cause operational issues ranging from overscan and DisplayPort resolution problems to the display Flat Panel Display device not displaying any image at all. Laptop Running EDID Manager DVI If you’re encountering such problems, Projector we’re pleased to offer a convenient software application, Extron EDID VGA Manager, which can be used to help determine whether EDID incompatibility may be the cause of an image CRT display issue. With this software, you can directly view the contents of the EDID file from a display device. EDID Manager is available as a free download from www.extron.com. EDID ManagerEDID Software Manager Reports software the reports EDID Information the EDID of Displays Connectedinformation via VGA,of displays DVI, HDMIconnected or DisplayPort via VGA, DVI, How to Use Extron EDID Manager HDMI, or DisplayPort. Download and install EDID Manager on a Windows® PC. If the PC isn't the source device, you’ll need to disconnect the source from the display Reading and Interpreting EDID Data By default, the software gives you the device, and connect the PC to it. EDID EDID is a data structure organized into option to view the data, block by block, in exchange applies to VGA, DVI, HDMI, several blocks of data, each revealing full detail. Select the “Full View” tab, and and DisplayPort, so it may be advisable pertinent information about the display you’ll see a complete report of what’s in that the same connection from the device and its operational characteristics. the EDID file. EDID Manager offers the source be applied from the PC as well. For computer-video applications, EDID option to save the report to a file. Once connected, the PC will attempt to is generally 128 bytes. For digital video capture EDID from the display. Before interfaces including DVI, HDMI, and Confirm that you're accessing the correct running EDID Manager on your PC, DisplayPort, EDID includes the CEA-861 EDID, by checking the manufacturer reboot the computer first, which will extension data with 128 additional bytes name and model of the display in bytes help ensure that the EDID captured of information relating to HDTV rates, 90-107. If you don't see the correct name was saved to the registry. audio formats and channels, and other and model, it’s possible that no EDID was video attributes. communicated to the PC. This could be

16 ExtroNews 21.1 | Winter 2010 TECH CORNER

a situation in which the display failed to For these situations, the solution would generate any EDID information at all, or for be to connect an EDID emulation device, some reason the PC could not read the such as the Extron EDID 101D or EDID information. EDID 101V, to the output of the source. This device communicates the EDID Scroll up to bytes 54-71, and you’ll find data the source needs to provide the what is perhaps the most important proper video output. Extron EDID 101 information about the display: the video devices feature EDID Minder™ which signal rate it prefers to receive from the provides constant and continuous EDID The source resolution matches that of the source. This preferred rate generally data management with the source. display, so that the image is displayed correctly. includes the native resolution of the The devices generate emulated EDID display. In applications where a PC is based on a user-selected resolution and connected to a monitor or projector, the a refresh rate, or EDID captured and resolution for the graphics card should stored from the display device. always be at this preferred rate to ensure optimal image quality. If you had been Using EDID Manager in A/V Systems seeing fuzzy, distorted images from the In addition to displays, other devices source PC, chances are that the graphics within an A/V system may communicate card had been set to a different output EDID, including switchers and video than what is preferred by the display. scalers. EDID Manager can be used to check for possible EDID discrepancies The source resolution does not match that of the If the source is DVI or HDMI-equipped, between the display and these mid- display, resulting in a fuzzy, distorted image. such as a Blu-ray Disc player, and the stream devices. display is an HDTV, try to find the CEA-861 extension data in bytes 128 The display's EDID can be used as a to 255. If no CEA-861 data is found, reference in setting up products that audio problems may also occur due to the display may be a legacy model with can generate emulated EDID, such as EDID issues between HDMI-connected limited HDTV compatibility. those from Extron featuring EDID Minder. devices. The CEA-861 extension These products can be particularly data lists audio formats supported Resolving EDID-Related Compatibility effective in A/V systems with a twisted by the device as well as the speaker Problems pair, fiber optic, or traditional RGBHV assignments for the audio channels. If the EDID file reveals a discrepancy infrastructure that do not convey EDID Ideally, the source should read the between the rates accepted by the from the display back to the source. display's EDID and then send its audio display and what’s coming out of the output in a format compatible with the source, there are several ways you can A Common EDID-Related Problem: display. try to resolve the issue. A first step could Audio Incompatibility be to attempt to set the output of the Although mostly associated with video, Unfortunately, this often is not the case. source to match the display’s preferred For example, a Blu-ray Disc player is rate, or one of the other rates it will sending content to a display. The picture accept. If the source is a PC, and the is fine, but there is no sound from the rate you want isn’t available as an option, speakers. The EDID indicates that the you can first try to update the driver for display only accepts two-channel audio. the graphics card. However, the Blu-ray Disc player is overriding or ignoring this information, These measures will fail to resolve the and instead is sending Dolby® Digital 5.1 problem if the PC overrides your settings multi-channel audio, which the display and forces its own default resolution, is unable to decode. To resolve this such as 640x480. In other cases, the issue, the Blu-ray Disc player should be PC or some other source simply won’t reconfigured so that it outputs two- output anything at all. Extron EDID 101D Emulator with EDID Minder™ channel audio to the display.

www.extron.com 17 NEW PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

Extron Matrix 1K Large-Scale Matrix Switcher Program

When it comes to large-scale matrix switching solutions for fiber optic, digital, or analog signal routing applications, 1000 or Larger Extron has you covered. Through the Matrix 1K Program, you can create custom, scalable matrix switchers in all 720 common signal types with I/O sizes up to 1000x1000 and beyond. Extron Matrix 1K switchers are designed and engineered to your specific project requirements. Matrix 1K 576 digital and fiber optic matrix switchers start at 320x320, INPUTS while Matrix 1K analog matrix switchers start at 128x128. 432 Regardless of the size you need, Extron Matrix 1K switchers work with the same ease of control and day in, day out

320 • • • • • • • • reliability you’ve come to expect from Extron. To begin • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • the process of configuring your Extron Matrix 1K switcher, • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • contact your local Extron Customer Support Representative. • • • • • • • • 320 432 576 720 1000 An Extron Applications Engineer will be assigned to your or Larger project and will work with you to ensure your complete OUTPUTS satisfaction. Extron Matrix 1K switchers offer very large scale routing capability to handle the largest, most complex venues. Matrix 1K Product Commissioning Extron provides proactive, on-site product commissioning with every Matrix 1K purchase. Matrix 1K commissioning provides you with an extra level of service, ensuring that the system you design and install meets your expectations and those of your client.

Extron Matrix 1K switchers can be custom designed in sizes from 128x128 up to 1000x1000 and beyond.

18 ExtroNews 21.1 | Winter 2010 NEW PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

FOX 4G Matrix 7200 Modular Fiber Optic Matrix Switcher from 8x8 to 72x72

The Extron FOX 4G Matrix 7200 is a high performance, modular fiber optic matrix switcher for complete, end-to-end digital A/V signal transmission and routing over fiber optic cable. The FOX 4G Matrix 7200 is expandable from 8x8 up to 72x72, and is fully compatible with the FOX Series of fiber optic transmitters and receivers. Supporting rates up to 4.25 Gbps, it accepts and routes standard definition video, high resolution computer-video, DVI-D, and multi-rate SDI. Equipped with the integration-friendly features common to Extron matrix switchers, together with hot-swappable I/O boards and fan, real-time system monitoring, and redundant, hot-swappable power supplies, the FOX 4G Matrix 7200 delivers highly reliable, enterprise-wide switching of fiber optic A/V and control signals for any mission-critical environment. Model Version Description Part Number MSRP FOX 4G Matrix 7200 FOX 4G Matrix 7200 Frame...... 60-1011-01 CALL FOX 4G I/O 88 MM 8x8 I/O Board - Multimode...... 70-791-01 CALL FOX 4G I/O 88 SM 8x8 I/O Board - Singlemode...... 70-791-02 CALL FOX 4G I/O 88 HD-SDI 8x8 I/O Board - Multi-Rate SDI...... 70-792-01 CALL FOX 4G Matrix Blank Plate Blank...... 70-651-21 CALL

MTP/HDMI U R Twisted Pair Receiver for HDMI, VGA, Video, Audio, and RS-232

The MTP/HDMI U R is a universal Twisted Pair Receiver that consolidates digital and analog video formats into a single product, delivering digital video, analog video, mono audio, and RS-232 signals from remote locations. It features an HDCP-compliant, HDMI/DVI 201 Series- compatible twisted pair input, plus a Universal MTP Twisted Pair input that accepts all common analog video formats from an MTP Series transmitter. Either input supports bidirectional RS-232 signals. The MTP/HDMI U R includes separate variable level and peaking controls and automatic signal format detection for incoming MTP signals.

Model Version Description Part Number MSRP MTP/HDMI U R HDMI/VGA/Video Twisted Pair Receiver...... 60-1048-01 $1,190

MTPX Plus 128 12x8 MTP Twisted Pair Matrix Switcher with IP Link for RGBHV, Video, Audio, and RS-232

The Extron MTPX Plus 128 Twisted Pair Matrix Switcher represents the next generation of twisted pair integration. Local video and audio inputs and outputs enable direct connection of equipment that is located within the same rack as the MTPX 128 matrix, greatly simplifying system complexity by eliminating additional MTP transmitters and receivers. The MTPX Plus 128 is a 1U high, full rack width MTP Twisted Pair Matrix Switcher with 12 inputs and 8 outputs, RS-232 insertion ports, and IP Link. In addition to offering all of the same features found in the MTPX Plus Series, the MTPX Plus 128 provides EDID Minder™ for local inputs and outputs, RS-232 insertion ports for all outputs, switchable video pre-peaking on all outputs, and a front panel mini USB port for configuration and setup.

Model Version Description Part Number MSRP MTPX Plus 128 12x8...... 60-1015-01 $8,590

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EXTRON INSTITUTE

LOCATION SCHOOL DATE LOCATION SCHOOL DATE The Netherlands Configurable Control Systems - English Jan. 18-19, 2010 San Jose, CA School of A/V Tech. for System Designers Feb. 1-2, 2010 Anaheim, CA Configurable Control Systems Jan. 27, 2010 San Jose, CA Configurable Control Systems Feb. 3, 2010 Singapore School of A/V Tech. for System Designers Jan. 27-28, 2010 Dubai, United Arab Configurable Control Systems Feb. 14-15, 2010 Emirates Singapore School of A/V Tech. for System Designers Jan. 27-28, 2010 Anaheim, CA Configurable Control Systems Mar. 3, 2010 Tokyo, Japan School of A/V Tech. for System Designers Jan. 27-28, 2010 Anaheim, CA Engineered System Technologies Mar. 4-5, 2010 Anaheim, CA Engineered System Technologies Jan. 28-29, 2010 Anaheim, CA School of AV Technologies for System Designers Mar. 4-5, 2010 Anaheim, CA School of A/V Tech. for System Designers Jan. 28-29, 2010 Philadelphia, PA School of AV Technologies for System Designers Mar. 22-23, 2010 Singapore Configurable Control Systems Jan. 29, 2010 Philadelphia, PA Configurable Control Systems Mar. 24, 2010

TRADESHOWS

SHOW BOOTH LOCATION DATE Integrated Systems Europe 2C24, 2C36, & 2E24 Amsterdam, The Netherlands Feb. 2-4, 2010