News

Smart-e launches Smartmix HDMI switching and distribution solution (1/5/2009)

Stand F5, CEDIA UK Expo 2009

CEDIA Expo 2009 will see AV switching and distribution company Smart-e Limited launch Smartmix, their new complete HDMI solution that mixes analogue and digital signals to provide HDMI signals, with a remote control facility through an IP address.

Smartmix is a high performance home entertainment solution that overcomes the technical challenges of HDMI. The multi-format solution receives and transmits a mix of analogue and digital signals via a single CAT 5* cable within one unit. Mixed analogue video formats together with HDMI signals can be switched and distributed to multiple displays up to 200m away.

Local and remote AV sources can be accommodated together with a Standard Definition (SD) facility to plug in legacy equipment such as VCR cameras, and direct control through an IP connection. An optional built-in web browser facility enables the management of content and broadcast from a remote location. For example, a company director could command the system from his/her laptop from anywhere in the world, or an engineer can tap into the system to undertake maintenance and repairs without the need for a site visit. A dedicated CPU on Linux Operating system limits impact on the matrix whilst maximising efficiency and speed, providing a stable and reliable platform.

As Smart-e managing director Jon Lane says "The Smartmix defaults to HDMI output and is compliant with High Definition Content Protection (HDCP). With the transmission of Freeview HD TV by the BBC from November of this year, we are already receiving calls on a daily basis for a HDCP compliant solution for home, leisure centre and pub entertainment systems. The Smartmix ticks all these boxes and is a very flexible and cost effective solution for custom installers."

The Smartmix can handle 16 source devices (8 local and 8 remote) and transmit to up to 8 displays. Analogue, VGA, HDMI and composite signals are all received and transmitted through CAT 5* cabling, whilst a single HDMI cable transmits the signal to the output screen. The system is easily scaleable, through networking several matrices together, giving the potential for providing infinite signals to displays. The solution transmits HD compatible signals (1080p + resolutions) digital/analogue audio, and features Auto Equalisation (EQ), IR and RS232 control passthrough, as well as inline power.

The first Smartmix matrices will be shipped by Smart-e in August 2009. Visit Smart-e at CEDIA Expo 2009 at stand no. F5.

www.smart-e.co.uk