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Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
With the ability to display a multitude of sources across a tiled array of displays, videowalls produce some of
the biggest images in the AV industry. First appearing in the late 1980s, videowalls found a home in public
spaces such as retail environments and museums. Throughout the following decades, their function shifted
from entertainment and advertising to powerful centerpieces in work environments, where high definition visual
content could be shared for critical analysis and decision-making.
Extron offers multiple videowall processing solutions including the WindoWall System, a robust solution for
managing multiple video and graphic sources on display systems with two or more screens, and the industry-
leading Quantum Series videowall processors, which provide scalable solutions for installations ranging from
small retail displays up to large, mission-critical command and control facilities, and anything in between.
Quantum videowall processors offer HDCP-compliant HDMI input and output options, ensuring compatibility
with the growing number of source devices that incorporate digital content encryption.
While videowalls continue to grow in popularity, many AV integrators can find themselves new to the task of
designing and integrating these unique display systems. By understanding each element of a videowall system,
as well as the physical aspects of the environments in which videowalls are used, you can avoid common pitfalls
in videowall design.
This Guide will be an invaluable reference to AV professionals who specify videowalls, whether frequently or
infrequently. Basic videowall concepts such as operating environments, processor features, and system control
are discussed, as well as more complex topics such as room design, font scaling and readability, and production
tips for unique videowall applications. Experienced designers will find useful technical references and visual
illustrations that will aid in communicating or comprehending technical topics that can be unique to videowall
systems. Several real-world designs provide examples of how the sources, videowall processor, displays, and
control system all come together to create a powerful visual tool for boardrooms, simulation environments, traffic
management centers, and more.
Over the past three decades, videowalls have evolved from a new technology into an essential component for
a growing number of AV environments. In the years to come, Extron will continue to deliver superior videowall
processing products that fulfill the unique requirements of videowall applications, while providing the most
comprehensive education, service, and support the industry has to offer.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction to Videowalls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Where are Videowalls Used? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Why a Videowall? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Reasons to Learn More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Needs Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Choosing the Right Videowall Shape and Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Choosing the Right Display Size and Resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Font Size and Legibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Display Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Videowall Maintenance and Cost of Ownership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Input Sources for Videowalls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Videowall Processor Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Videowall Processor Hardware Platforms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Videowall Processor Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Portrait & Landscape Orientation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Videowall System Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Additional Videowall System Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Glossary
AV Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Introduction to Videowalls
What are the Essential Requirements of User accessibility. Videowalls are among
a Videowall? the most complex types of AV systems to set
Performance and image quality. Because up and configure. The end user likely will be a
videowalls usually are large and highly visible, their system operator without detailed knowledge
images should always appear bright and sharp, of the videowall configuration or functions. An
and content must be clear and easy to decipher. intuitive user interface should be provided, such
A videowall processor provides
The videowall processing must deliver consistent as a touchpanel with a simple button layout that the flexibility to customize
performance regardless of signal load, maintain allows the user to easily select presets for window window layouts for displaying
several visual sources on the
the original frame rate of high-motion content, layouts, or switch input sources. videowall.
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Where are Videowalls Used?
The size, features, Videowalls were first developed in the mid-1980s, needs. The size, features, and performance of
and performance of a and found an early home in entertainment and a videowall are dictated by the environment,
retail environments, where the appearance of a application, and the intended viewing experience
videowall are dictated
big stack of TVs producing a single, cohesive for the audience.
by the environment, video image on CRT screens was a guaranteed
application, and the showstopper. During the 1990s, CRT-based Working Spaces
intended viewing displays were joined by new imaging technologies Command and Control
and the emergence of videowall processors Videowalls have become a standard fixture in
experience for the
with the capacity to process a variety of input command and control rooms on military bases
audience. and output signal formats. Together, they were and in government facilities run by public safety
ideal for presenting the high resolution computer and intelligence agencies. They are used to
55 CRT Monitor Pyramid graphic formats that were quickly becoming provide a large, centralized display, allowing room
Videowall
commonplace, as well as high definition video as occupants to share visual information. Videowalls
it emerged throughout the 1990s. in these environments typically present a wide
variety of classified and unclassified sources
By then, videowalls were no longer used to aid in information monitoring and decision-
exclusively for eye candy. They found their way making. Standard definition camera feeds, high
into work environments, where large, centrally definition satellite news broadcasts, legacy
located videowalls allowed an entire room of analog computer-video, digital video, map files,
personnel to share highly visual information. and other sources are typically displayed on a
Today, videowalls can simultaneously present 12 to 18-screen videowall, managed by a shift
standard definition video, high definition video, supervisor.
computer graphic sources, and IP streamed
content, producing extremely flexible information Projection cubes have historically been the
850 CRT Monitor Videowall
display systems. display device of choice in command and
control rooms, providing large screen sizes with
Videowalls are now used in many different very narrow bezels, but LCD flat-panel displays
ways in public and work spaces. For each of have quickly become very popular. Command
these spaces, there are many different types and control rooms are among the most
of environments, each with unique application demanding environments for videowall displays
Northern Command
Command and Control Center
A corporate lobby of a definition video, computer graphics, and locally Public Spaces
technology-based firm stored images such as maps. Corporate Lobbies
The corporate lobby of a technology-based firm
is a popular location
Utility and Network Operations Centers is a popular location for a videowall, where a
for a videowall, where Utilities and network operations centers - NOCs stylish video display becomes a reflection of both
a stylish video display monitor and manage large complex operations the creativity and innovation that exists beyond
becomes a reflection of for private or public utilities, refineries, or the waiting area. Corporate videos highlighting
telecommunication and network providers. NOC an organizations products or services, news,
both the creativity and
videowalls typically display specialized software and personalized images welcoming specific
innovation that exists applications for supervisory control and data customers are commonly seen on the videowall.
beyond the waiting acquisition - SCADA systems, presenting data Flat-panel LCDs or compact modular tile arrays
area. as well as charts, plots, and other graphical are popular choices for videowall systems, due
information. Software client or screen capture to their bright images and modern styling. Short
applications may also be used to present viewing distances dictate that the videowall
information on the videowall. Projection cubes processing delivers very high quality images,
or display systems with thin seams or no seams even when the source content is scaled above or
are frequently used in NOCs, so that the detailed below its original resolution.
graphical system data will be presented clearly as
it spans several displays. Public Signage and Retail
Video-based public signage is used in retail
Corporate Conference Rooms environments and other public venues including
Videowalls are used in corporate conference train and subway stations, airports, and other
rooms to simultaneously display multiple sources locations where digital signage, such as
of various formats on a small number of displays. videowalls, will be visible to large numbers of
They support presentations and training sessions people. Content is often sourced from solid-
that utilize PC and video sources. Rear-projection state video players, periodically updated across
systems are often used, sometimes configured a media network, or from devices that receive
A corporate lobby is a popular
location for a videowall as
with two to four projected images edge-blended IP video streams. Projection cubes or flat-panel
a stylish video display for into a seamless display. LCD displays are popular for these videowalls.
welcoming visitors and delivering
impact. The ability to produce a high quality image is
important for videowall processing in public
signage applications, as images are magnified
to large sizes. Cost efficiency is critical for public
signage systems.
Houses of Worship
Videowalls are used by large houses of worship
to present media to their congregations. The
appearance of these displays will be more of
a continuous projection display than a tiled
system. During services, videowalls typically
present camera feeds, video or graphic content
supporting the days teachings, hymn music
and lyrics, video of recent events, or content
streamed from remote worship facilities. The
Emerson
Corporate Lobby services are similar to other large-scale live
events, in that production teams manage audio
6 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
and video engineering tasks, including videowall and also respond quickly to user control to keep Videowall processors
control. Videowalls in houses of worship typically up with the fast-changing pace of the event. used in house of
employ small numbers of front projectors to
worship applications
achieve sufficient image magnification. Videowall Bars and Restaurants
processors in these applications must retain high In bars and restaurants, videowalls are often must retain high quality
quality when image sources are scaled for large used to display multiple high definition video when image sources
screen sizes. sources. Large numbers of satellite or cable are scaled for large
television signals are used as source inputs to
screen sizes.
Sports Arenas the videowall. They are commonly presented
Videowalls are used in sports arenas in many in a window layout with a single, large window
different ways in concourses and public areas. for the most prominent broadcast, and several
Historically, they have been used in scoreboards smaller windows displaying other events. The
to display large video instant replay, as well as bartender or manager has the ability to switch the
computer-generated animations from the facilitys TV channel for any window, or recall a different
production booth. Today, they are increasingly window layout, often using a small touchpanel.
used for digital signage and have become an Flat-panel LCD displays or projection cubes
integral part of the facility experience. Projection are frequently used for their ability to display
cubes and LCD panels are used for indoor bright images with high contrast. The videowall
displays, while LED systems are a popular processor must be cost-effective, but also
choice for outdoor venues due to their very high maintain real-time performance while displaying
brightness. The videowall processor must be multiple high definition video sources.
capable of delivering high quality video images,
A videowall in a restaurant or bar provides a convenient, single large display for simultaneous access to several
channels of TV programming to customers.
Big Als
Entertainment Center
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Why a Videowall?
Videowalls have A videowall typically requires a significant have several distinct attributes and advantages,
several distinct investment, and is often the most expensive line with image display capability and flexibility that
item in a facilitys capital outlay for an AV project. simply cannot be achieved otherwise.
attributes and
While the videowall functions as a single display,
advantages, with it is always important to remember that it is a High Pixel Density
image display system. Pixel density is the number of pixels per unit
capability and flexibility area, and is determined by the resolution and
Videowall processors are a significant component screen size of a display. When a single projected
that simply cannot be
of the videowall in terms of cost. They provide image is enlarged, pixel density decreases.
achieved otherwise. features common to conventional scalers or However, for a videowall, pixel density is constant
video processors, but have greater input, output, regardless of the array size, because it is based
and processing capability. The increased number on the individual display unit. Enlarging the array
of inputs and outputs creates requirements for increases the overall resolution of the videowall.
many more dimensions of processing and image
enhancements, providing greater value. A videowall usually delivers much higher pixel
density than a projected image of the same size.
Because of the investment necessary to acquire An image can be upscaled for enlargement on
and install a videowall, an inexperienced designer a videowall, so that it fills up the array without
may be tempted to seek an alternative means compromising picture quality. In contrast,
of presenting large images or multiple sources significantly enlarging an image from a projector
simultaneously. Such means could include reduces apparent resolution and image quality.
increasing picture size from a single projector, using
conventional signal switching and distribution Images that occupy large viewing areas need
in place of a videowall processor, or installing sufficient resolution or pixel density in order to
independent LCD panels on a wall instead of an present clear and legible content. Figure 1-1
integrated videowall array. However, videowalls illustrates two images of equal size, one from a
single 1080p projector fed by a multi-window
1920
processor, and the other a 3x3 videowall with
Figure 1-1. Videowall
images of identical size, 1080p panels via a videowall processor. Both
produced by a single 640x360 640x360 640x360
projector and a 3x3 array are presenting the same content and layout for
of flat-panel displays displaying multiple high definition input sources.
1080 However, the videowall can present the sources
with nine times as many pixels when compared
1920 x 720
to the single projected image. This increased
resolution, resulting from a higher pixel density,
enables presentation of a row of three HD video
Single Projector, 156 in x 102 in (4 m x 2.5 m)
sources at full resolution, compared to just
640x360 per image for the single display.
5760 (1920x3)
3240
devices together. By tiling displays, videowalls of
(1080x3)
any size and aspect ratio can be constructed,
5760x2160
often in very creative ways. A videowall display
layout never has to be limited to the standard
16:9, 16:10, or 4:3 aspect ratios of single
3 x 3 Videowall, 156 in x 102 in (4 m x 2.5 m) displays. Additionally, displays in a videowall can
8 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
be oriented horizontally or vertically, or even a increases, there is no reduction in brightness A bright, clear image
combination of both, further enhancing creative as more displays are added to a videowall. A is crucial for a video
possibilities. videowall with 40 screens is just as bright as a
display. Videowalls
videowall with four screens.
Small Footprint present viewers with
A front projector usually requires significant Show More Images on Fewer Displays consistently bright,
throw distance to produce an image that fills up Most flat panels and projection cubes have inviting images,
a substantial portion of a wall. Practical throw internal scalers that allow a single image to
regardless of size.
distance requirements may limit the number be stretched across a tiled array. This may be
of allowable participants in the room without suitable for applications that only use videowalls
blocking the projected image, even when special for displaying a single, large image. For
wide angle lenses are used. Videowalls comprised applications requiring simultaneous presentation
of flat panels or projection cubes occupy a of multiple image sources, a simple solution is
compact footprint, due to each displays fixed to feed sources directly to individual displays in
depth. This depth remains constant, regardless of the videowall. A switcher, distribution amplifier,
how large the videowall may be. See Figure 1-2. or matrix switcher can be used to provide some
A display array 20 units wide and 10 units high flexibility in distributing signals to the displays.
shares the same depth of a single display device.
However, with this solution, the number of
Consistent Brightness sources that can be presented will frequently be
A bright, clear image is crucial for a video display. limited by the number of displays in the videowall.
Whether being viewed by a workforce interpreting For example, a 2x2 videowall with a matrix
on-screen information, or by customers casually switcher will allow for simultaneous display of four
glancing at digital signage in a retail environment, image sources.
images must be sufficiently bright so that content
will be clear and easy to decipher. A videowall processor is a far more versatile
and powerful solution. It provides the flexibility
Videowalls present viewers with consistently to present multiple sources on fewer screens by
bright, inviting images, regardless of size. While allowing a user to display multiple source windows
a single projector loses brightness as image size on each display. Windows can always be sized
and positioned as necessary to accommodate
the number of images to be presented.
Figure 1-2. Flat-panel
displays produce
a videowall with a Mixed Source Resolutions and Formats
minimal footprint.
A videowall processor accepts and processes
multiple signal formats such as standard definition
video, computer graphics, and high definition
video, so they can be simultaneously displayed
together. Each source can be displayed on any
www.extron.com 9
Why a Videowall?
The ability to mix and part of a videowall, and many different source in which critical details in graphs, data screens,
match signal formats types can be displayed within a single screen. and camera feeds need to be discernible, despite
See Figure 1-3. The ability to mix and match the smaller image sizes.
for simultaneous
signal formats for simultaneous viewing can be a
viewing can be a crucial factor for workflows that rely on a variety Flexibility in Customizing Presentations
crucial factor for of visual data sources, as well as the flexibility A videowall processor provides full flexibility to
workflows that rely on to determine how they should be positioned or customize presentations by adding, sizing, and
grouped together. placing windows, and assigning input sources to
a variety of visual data
them. Any window can be as small as desired,
sources, as well as the Simplified Display Setup or as large as the entire videowall. Additionally,
flexibility to determine Videowall processors supply a consistent output windows can be layered over each other.
how they should be signal format, eliminating the need to save Videowall processing automatically optimizes
unique input adjustments such as size, position, the input source to the size of the window. Many
positioned or grouped
or phase for different signal types on each more enhancements are available, including
together. display. Managing multiple input formats across window borders and captions, live backgrounds
a common output format simplifies integration, from a source input, and maps, logos, or other
since the displays need only be configured for one graphics stored on the processor for use as
resolution and refresh rate. Driving the display at static backgrounds. Videowall processors let the
its native resolution will maintain the best quality user precisely define the look and style of the
image, avoiding inefficient or unnecessary scaling presentation, and also allow window layouts to
within the display. be created, saved, and then recalled.
Figure 1-3. Sources of various formats and resolutions can be combined on a videowall.
Videowalls are ideal for applications requiring you can select the display model and technology, A common approach
presentation of large images and multiple image finalizing the videowall configuration. to videowall system
sources, because they provide flexible image
design is to first specify
layout options while maintaining the best possible Videowall processing. Videowall processors
picture quality. However, engineering a videowall are equally as important as the displays. However, the displays, and then
can be challenging. A wide range of design they vary greatly in features, capabilities, and consider other system
factors must be carefully considered, many of price. This guide provides detailed information on components as
which are specific to videowall applications. videowall processors to help guide your selection.
supporting elements.
Videowalls More than Just Displays Videowall processor architecture. Videowall However, this
A common approach to videowall system design processing is available as a single, centralized approach can overlook
is to first specify the displays, and then consider unit, or distributed among modular units many critical aspects
other system components as supporting connected to sources and displays.
of a successful
elements. However, this approach can overlook
many critical aspects of a successful videowall Videowall processor platforms. Some videowall design.
design. While display devices are important, they processors are based on PC technologies,
only represent a single component of the system. while others are standalone video processing
appliances. Others are a combination of the two.
Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
This guide is a comprehensive resource for Videowall processing features. Scaling
evaluating, planning, and successfully executing performance, window customization options,
videowall system designs. The sections that mullion compensation, and edge blending for
follow will cover a broad range of considerations, projectors are among the many features available.
all of which are important to videowalls:
System control. The system must be easy to
Needs assessment. Any videowall design operate, and respond quickly to user commands
requires clear knowledge of the applications without being slowed by image processing tasks.
intended purpose. Selecting the right products
requires an understanding of exactly how the Supporting system elements. Videowall
videowall will be used. systems may include matrix switching, signal A successful videowall design
accounts for environmental
extension over fiber and twisted pair, streaming
and human factors as well as
Environmental factors and ergonomics. content over IP, and more. products and technologies.
Videowall designs should include considerations
for human interaction. Lighting conditions,
seating positions, physical obstructions, and
other factors are important to ensure comfortable
viewing and legibility of content.
UK Highways Agency
Videowall display selection. With knowledge South Mimms
of the videowall size, shape, and pixel density,
www.extron.com 11
Needs Assessment
it cant be done. If you deal with the lowest Will there be source devices with HDCP-encrypted
outputs, such as Blu-ray Disc players and digital
bidder, it is well to add something for the risk you
cable or satellite receivers?
run, and if you do that you will have enough to
How should the information be presented? Will
pay for something better.
only one or a few images be presented at a time,
or must the system be capable of presenting
A thorough needs assessment will help clarify many sources at the same time, in a variety of
core requirements, and identify inadequate or combinations?
non-essential technology. It will help avoid paying How much display area is available, or envisioned to
too little and ending up with a system that is not be used for the videowall?
The quantity and layout of source windows will vary depending on the application and environment.
www.extron.com 13
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors
An effectively designed The ability to present clear, high quality imagery Figure 2-1. A 3D perspective rendering can be
valuable when considering environmental and human
videowall system, with from multiple sources and at large sizes makes factors for a videowall.
videowalls valuable for maintaining situational
proper consideration
awareness, as mission-critical information is
for environmental presented in a working environment such as a
and human factors, control center. In public spaces, videowalls can
ensures viewing deliver visual impact and effective messaging in
entertainment and promotional applications. An
comfort and optimal
effective videowall will be properly integrated into
accessibility for its physical environment, and be engineered for
everyone in the room. efficient, ergonomic use.
This in turn helps to
When designing a videowall system, individuals section drawings are essential to reviewing the
maximize the value and
frequently begin by focusing on the most visible physical considerations for the environment. 3D
effectiveness of the element, the displays. However, to properly visualizations, such as in Figure 2-1, can also be
videowall in conveying determine which display technology and valuable for pointing out environmental concerns
visual information. specifications are best for a given installation, to end users and project stakeholders with limited
physical and operational dynamics must be experience in videowall applications.
considered as part of a complete AV system
design. Ignoring the environmental and operational An effectively designed videowall system, with
requirements can lead to less-than-optimal results proper consideration for environmental and human
for a high value videowall, in what could otherwise factors, ensures viewing comfort and optimal
be an outstanding system design. accessibility for everyone in the room. This in turn
helps to maximize the value and effectiveness of
Many environmental and human factors, as the videowall in conveying visual information.
well as ergonomic engineering essentials,
seem obvious when considered after the fact. A great deal of government, academic, and
Unfortunately, AV designers are often not involved commercial research has been conducted in the
early enough in a projects life cycle to prevent all area of human factors and ergonomic design
possible shortcomings regarding these important for control centers. The International Standards
details. Preparation of two-dimensional plans and Organization - ISO has published standard
11064-1:2000 for ergonomic design of control
centers, and the US military has established
Figure 2-2. Adding curvature to the videowall can help optimize viewing angles.
standards for human engineering that address
use of visual displays.
Videowall Videowall
Viewing Locations
It is essential that all the intended users can easily
view the videowall. When evaluating horizontal
Wide viewing angles result in lower display Curving displays improves the viewing and vertical viewing angles, the following
brightness. angle and brightness.
questions should be answered:
14 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
it im
it R
Lim igh
u al tE
Vis ye
Bin
62 o c ular Vis ion 62
S y m bol
R e c o g n itio n
5 - 30 5 - 30
0
Up
pe
ld
Examples of secondary viewing locations include
rV
Fie
is u
al
viewing galleries or management offices.
su
al F
25
Vi
of
um n
ield
Vis
Are there any physical barriers that could obstruct ye ua xim tio
it
E Ma Rota
eft
Lim
lL
it L im e
it R Ey
the videowall for some users? lL
im igh
R o t a ti o n
a tE
isu
O p ti m u m
V ye Standard 0
Bin Line of Sight
ion 62
In large rooms, such as a control center, viewing 62 o c ular Vis Norm
Eye
a
of Sig l Line
ht Sit
locations will vary greatly. It is important to S y m bol
M
Ey axim
ting 15
e R um
Lim
R e c o g n itio n
evaluate viewing angles in both the vertical and ota
tio
it of
5 - 30 5 - 30 n
0 30
horizontal planes. If physical barriers are identified,
ld
Visu
Fie
al F
additional displays may be required to expand
al
Standard
su
Line of Sight
ield
Vi
the videowall, or extra localized displays may
er
w
Lo
50
be necessary. Some environments may require 70
Up
that the videowall be split into smaller systems
pe
ld
rV
Fie
to sufficiently cover all viewing areas. In other
is u
al
su
al F
25
Vi
cases, adding curvature to the videowall layout Figure 2-4. Eye and head tilt from
m workstation to display
of
ield
mu on xi ti
it
Ma Rota
Lim
Figure 2-2.
O p ti m u m
Standard Preferred
0
Line of Sight Minimum 2.5H
Norm
Eye
n
tasks using one or more local flat-panel displays 30
ld
Visu
Fie
Obstruction Line
while monitoring content on a videowall
al F
al
1H
su
Optimum Maximum
ield
Vi
positioned beyond their workstation. Eye and Eye Rotation 25 Eye Rotation
er
w
Lo
head tilt between workstation displays and 70
0
the videowall should be compared against 55
Normal Line
15
recommended human engineering standards of Sight Sitting
30 Maximum Eye
for visual field of view, eye rotation, and head Rotation
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Environmental Considerations & Human Factors
Front
Projection
Luminance
Light per unit area emitted in a specific direction
Nits - Cd/m2
Complementary
Colors
Flat Panel or
Rear Projection
Relaxed Strained
the gain of the projection screen. Rear projection Task lighting 1,500 lux LCD screen 450 - 700 nits
screens with high gain typically yield lower Office lighting 500 - 750 lux Laptop screen 150 - 250 nits
Control room 300 - 750 lux Cinema screen 40 - 60 nits
luminance values at off-axis viewing angles. This
Theaters 150 lux
reduction in brightness helps to illustrate the
Parking lot lighting 10 lux
significance of the direction of light for luminance.
Moonlight 0.1 lux
Projection cube specifications usually identify the
horizontal and vertical viewing angles at which the
Table 2-3. Conversion factors for brightness values derived from metric and English
luminance will be one-half, or a lower percentage standard measurements
relative to the on-axis value. METRIC ENGLISH STANDARD METRIC TO ENGLISH TO
MEASUREMENT MEASUREMENT MEASUREMENT ENGLISH METRIC
Illuminance Lux Foot-candle (ft-c) Lux x 10.764 ft-c / 10.764
Luminance is also important for large-screen rear
Luminance Nit or candela/m2 Foot-lambert (ft-L) Nit x 3.426 ft-l / 3.426
projection systems. System designs must include
www.extron.com 17
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors
Brightness and requires even greater attention to reducing dark Introduction of the 15:1 ratio for basic decision-
contrast can be values. For product specifications, contrast ratio making resulted in notable industry feedback,
is based on measurements taken in a completely considering that a contrast ratio of 10:1 had
objectively determined
dark room. Unless the display is to be used in been applied as a rule of thumb by industry
with light meters, but a similarly darkened environment, contrast ratio professionals for many years. Nevertheless, the
in the end, customer product specifications should not be factored too economic and environmental factors encountered
satisfaction can be heavily when comparing products. The standard on every project produces challenges that may or
method for determining contrast ratio is illustrated may not support attaining these standards.
purely subjective.
in Figure 2-7.
Brightness and contrast can be objectively
Many direct-view flat panels include high determined with light meters, but in the end,
contrast surfaces to disperse incident light and customer satisfaction can be purely subjective.
reduce reflections on the screen. Front and There is no substitute for visually evaluating a
rear-projection screens include various coatings displays brightness and contrast in the actual
or tinting to diffuse incident light and improve facility it was designed for, or under comparable
contrast. In control rooms with projection environmental conditions, using visual content
systems, contrast is frequently optimized by representative of the intended application.
formatting data and graphic content with dark
backgrounds and bright characters or symbols, Ambient Lighting
and maintaining low ambient light conditions. For Ambient lighting conditions will impact the
direct-view panels, content frequently appears resulting contrast, or how images appear under
better when formatted with bright or white actual lighting conditions. Excessive lighting in
backgrounds and dark characters or symbols. a room will conflict with the displays, reducing
Both types of formatting work well for projection contrast and making the image appear washed
cubes. out and difficult to view.
In 2011, InfoComm International published the The following are best practices for improving
ANSI/INFOCOMM 3M-2011 Projected Image the impact of lighting on AV systems in control
System Contrast Ratio standard for contrast centers:
ratios of projected images for different viewing Control ambient brightness throughout the room,
applications. The following recommendations minimizing it wherever not essential to human
were established: a minimum contrast ratio of activity.
7:1 for images produced purely for informational Use directional overhead spotlights where possible
to keep lighting away from the videowall.
purposes, at least 15:1 for basic decision-
making, 50:1 for critical decision-making, and Incorporate individualized task lighting for
workstations, rather than relying on lighting fixtures
80:1 for presentation of full-motion video content.
which apply broad coverage throughout a room.
Figure 2-7. Contrast Ratio
Display Measured luminance ratio of full white vs. black The following should be avoided:
contrast ratio Contrast Ratio = Bright - Dark (Nits)
Placement of ceiling lights in close proximity to
Dark (Nits)
displays; light may spill onto the screen surfaces.
Untreated windows directly facing a videowall
display, particularly those with a southerly exposure.
Note: In northern latitude locations, there have
been instances of poor planning for ambient lighting
Display conditions. Specifically, these have been for corporate
lobby videowall installations that face windows with a
Contrast Ratio
Example: 100:1 southerly exposure. During afternoon hours in winter
Deciding how large a Deciding how large a videowall should be is more 5:4, 16:9, or 16:10. Videowalls may also have
videowall should be is than a matter of determining how many display creative shapes with no defined aspect ratio.
devices are required to fill a space on a wall. The
more than a matter of
manner in which the videowall will be used, the What is the best shape or aspect ratio for a
determining how many types and quantity of information to be presented, videowall? If the objective is to make the videowall
display devices are and the size and shape of the room should be as large as possible, then its shape will be driven
required to fill a space considered before selecting the quantity and by the layout of the room. A shallow, wide room
type of display. A videowall in a public setting with a low ceiling will likely necessitate a short,
on a wall.
for digital signage will have far different physical wide videowall. Other room characteristics may
requirements than a videowall in a command and result in a videowall shape closer to a square. But
control center. room layout is not the only important factor when
determining the height and width of a videowall.
Determining the Shape or Aspect Ratio The size and aspect ratio of the source content
When specifying a videowall system, a design and their intended arrangements on the videowall
engineer has the flexibility to define a specific will also influence its shape and design.
layout for the displays. Videowalls two screens
high by four screens wide, three screens high by A good first step is to determine the types and
four screens wide, or four screens high by four resolutions of input sources to the videowall, and
screens wide are common. However, each of how many of them must be displayed together.
these arrangements results in a different overall Discussing this with the end user, and deciding
aspect ratio, which is defined by the layout of how source windows should be arranged on the
the screens as well as the aspect ratio of the videowall, will help determine the best overall
individual display devices, which could be 4:3, screen arrangement.
www.extron.com 21
Choosing the Right Videowall Shape and Size
Begin by measuring, or estimating the distance from the videowall to the viewing
position closest to the wall. Then, this basic trigonometric formula can be used to Table 2-4. Recommended display pixel density based
calculate pixel pitch, or the physical separation between two pixels. on the closest viewing distance
Pixel Pitch = Viewing Distance x tan (1 arc minute / 60 arc minutes per degree) VIEWING DISTANCE MINIMUM PIXEL DENSITY
= Viewing Distance x tan (0.0167) = Viewing Distance x 0.000291 5 ft (1.5 m) 57 PPI - pixels per inch
where the viewing distance and pixel pitch are specified in inches. Pixel density, in PPI 10 ft (3 m) 28 PPI
or pixels per inch, is then simply the inverse of pixel pitch:
15 ft (4.5 m) 19 PPI
Pixel Density (PPI) = 1 / Pixel Pitch (in) 20 ft (6 m) 14 PPI
Example: For a viewing distance of 10 feet (3 m), or 120 inches,
Pixel Pitch = 120 in x tan (0.0167) = 120 in x 0.000291 = 0.035 in (0.9 mm)
Pixel Density = 1 / 0.035 in = 28 PPI
Then, dividing the diagonal pixel resolution by the diagonal screen dimension gives
you pixel density.
The ideal dimensions and resolution of an Figure 2-12 illustrates two videowalls of The ideal dimensions
individual display unit will depend on the required comparable size. System A comprises three and resolution of an
pixel density, the desired shape and size of the 80 inch (203 cm) SXGA+ projection cubes, and
individual display unit
videowall, and budget. The choice of display System B is an array of eight 50 inch (127 cm)
technology will dictate the specific screen SXGA+ cubes. While the resulting videowalls will depend on the
dimensions and resolutions available from which are close in physical size, there are considerable required pixel density,
to choose. Display technologies for videowalls will differences between the two. System A will the desired shape and
be discussed later in further detail. likely be less expensive than System B, despite
size of the videowall,
the larger, more expensive 80 inch displays,
For a given display technology, larger displays are as System A requires only three displays while and budget.
typically more expensive than smaller models. System B requires eight. In addition, the videowall
But it may actually cost less to fulfill a desired processor for System A will only require three
videowall size with fewer large, more expensive outputs, while System B will require a larger
displays, than a greater quantity of small, less videowall processor with at least eight outputs.
expensive displays. Fewer displays translate
to less expensive videowall processing, since While System A is more cost effective than
fewer outputs will be required. However, smaller System B, the overall pixel density of System
displays often deliver higher pixel density for the B is greater than that of System A. System A
videowall. Therefore, a videowall design focusing comprises 4200x1050 pixels with a pixel density
solely on the economics of displays may ignore of 22 PPI, while System B comprises 5600x2100
pixel density considerations. This is particularly pixels and 35 PPI pixel density. Therefore,
the case for videowalls comprising projection System B will be able to display a higher number
cubes or front projectors, but also applies to LCD of sources at native resolution. Depending on
panels if there is a need to present many high the required pixel density, the desired window
resolution image sources. layouts, and the resolutions of the input sources,
System B may be a more suitable solution than
System A, despite the higher price.
Figure 2-12. A videowall with fewer screens may be more cost-effective, but may not
deliver sufficient pixel density for the needs of the application.
System A
16 ft (4.9 m) - 4200 pixels (1400x3)
4 ft (1.2 m) - 1050 pixels
System B
13 ft 4 in (4 m) - 5600 pixels (1400x4)
5 ft (1.5 m) - 2100 pixels
www.extron.com 23
Font Size and Legibility
Viewers should be able Legibility is very important for any videowall over long periods of time. A safer rule of thumb is
to easily read text at application with sources that include for any displayed text to occupy at least 15 to 20
alphanumeric text. Viewers should be able to arc minutes of the furthest viewers vision.*
all intended viewing
easily read text at all intended viewing distances
distances without without eyestrain. Delivering adequately sized text The example in Figure 2-13 illustrates an
eyestrain. can be accomplished by scaling up or enlarging environment where the nearest viewer is 15
the source to make fonts legible, or by rendering feet (4.5 m) from a videowall, and the furthest
content with text at appropriate font sizes. viewer is 30 feet (9 m) from the screens. The
text is 1 inch (25 mm) high, which occupies 19
When considering legibility, it is important to take arc minutes of the nearest viewers vision. While
into account the distance between the farthest this is acceptable, text read by a viewer 30 feet
viewer and the videowall, and use this worst from the videowall only occupies 10 arc minutes,
case scenario to determine how large source which is not acceptable for extended viewing.
windows should be, or what font size should The sidebar provides more details on calculating
be specified when creating content. Additional arc minutes based on the text size and viewing
display area may be required to provide adequate distance.
space for enlarged windows, which translates
to larger displays, or extra rows or columns of To improve legibility for the furthest viewer, text
screens. should be rendered at a larger size, or source
window sizes should be expanded. Figure 2-13
At a minimum, text on a videowall should occupy demonstrates that doubling the text height from
* From Simpson, Robert S. (1996). 10 vertical arc minutes of the viewers vision to be 1 to 2 inches (25 to 50 mm) improves legibility,
Videowalls: The Book of the Big legible. However, this size may still appear to be since the text now occupies 19 arc minutes for
Electronic Image, Oxford, United
Kingdom: Focal Press. too small for many viewers, and eyestrain is likely the furthest viewer.
Example: For text 1 inch (25 mm) tall, viewed from 15 feet (4.5 m)
or 180 inches,
Text height
2 in (50 mm)
Arc Minutes = 60 x arctan (1 in/180 in) = 60 x arctan (0.0056)
38 arc minutes = 60 x 0.3183 = 19
Pixel Density:
52 pixels per inch
Figure 2-14. Text at a specific font size will appear smaller on a higher resolution display.
768 pixels
www.extron.com 25
1366 pixels
Display Devices
Several display With the size and shape of the videowall in Projection Cubes
technologies are mind, as well as a minimum pixel density to Projection cubes have long been the display
ensure high quality images for everyone in the technology of choice for many videowall
available when
room, the system designer can now consider installations. The first projection cubes for
specifying a videowall the technology and model of the displays for videowalls featured CRT projectors housed in
design, each with its the videowall. Several display technologies are enclosures that were four to five feet (1.2 to 1.5
distinct benefits and available when specifying a videowall design, m) deep with 40 inch (102 cm) diagonal Fresnel
each with its distinct benefits and drawbacks. and lenticular screens. CRT technology was
drawbacks. The ideal
The ideal choice will be based on several factors, eventually replaced with LCD, DLP, and LCoS
choice will be based including the following: projection modules with lamp or LED-based
on several factors. illumination systems. They have been engineered
Specific display technology. The end user for long life, while maintaining tight tolerances for
may already have a particular display type in mind brightness and color temperature. First-surface
for the videowall, such as LCD flat panels. mirrors have been incorporated to reduce the
projection path and enclosure footprint.
Screen size, shape, and resolution. Specific
screen dimensions and resolutions vary according Current projection cube designs feature DLP
to the display technology. Considerably large projectors, with native resolutions ranging from
screen sizes may necessitate the use of front or 1024x768 to 1920x1200. They include LED
rear projectors. illumination sources with lifetimes specified
between 50,000 and 80,000 hours.
Picture adjustments. Displays for videowalls
feature a range of brightness and color Projection cubes are available in sizes from 50 to
adjustments, controls, and illumination systems 80 inches (127 to 203 cm) in aspect ratios of 4:3,
that allow the displays to maintain alignment with 16:9, or 16:10. They generally require a footprint
each other over time. from 1.5 to 3 feet (0.5 to 1 m). Projection cubes
have very thin screen bezels that minimize the
Footprint. Front and rear projection systems appearance of mullions in the videowall, making
require the greatest consideration for space, them popular in control room environments where
while LCD panels consume a minimal footprint detailed data and graphics may be presented
in a room. across multiple screens. Manufacturers are now
marketing projection cubes with designs that
Environmental factors. Significant ambient are said to have eliminated the appearance of a
light in the room, and limited tolerance for mullion between screens.
mechanical noise may preclude the use of front
projectors.
www.extron.com 27
Display Devices
Videowall applications videowall is determined by the physical attributes Rear projection systems eliminate the long-throw
that incorporate of the viewing room and available space. distance, ambient light spill, room obstructions,
and fan noise that can plague front projection
projector arrays
Front Projection systems. However, they require dedicated space
employ either edge Front projection videowalls require the use of behind the display, and mounting systems with
blending or edge ceiling-mount systems, floor-level projection projection mirrors that require greater complexity
butting. The design cabinets, or isolated projection rooms. Ambient for setup and maintenance than front projectors.
lighting conditions and screen technology must
objective is to create
be factored carefully into display brightness Edge-Blended Projection
a single, large display and contrast requirements. Fan noise requires Videowall applications that incorporate projector
delivering a continuous consideration if projectors are to be situated arrays employ either edge blending or edge
projected image. within the working environment. Installing front butting techniques. See Figure 2-15. The design
projection may also result in restricted usage of objective is to create a single, large display
floor space, to prevent staff from accidentally delivering a continuous projected image.
walking into the projection paths and casting
shadows on the screens. Edge blending is achieved by aligning the images
from adjacent projectors so that the images
Rear Projection overlap with each other, typically by 20%. Video
Rear projection systems place the projector in content projected in the overlap region must be
an enclosure or projection room, isolating it from identical between projectors. This requires special
viewers. To minimize the depth of the projection image processing, which is not a standard feature
room, first-surface mirrors are employed to fold in videowall processors.
the projection path.
Special adjustments for brightness, contrast,
Figure 2-15. Front projection vs. rear projection, and edge blending vs. edge butting and gamma are also required to match the
Front Projection Rear Projection projected illumination between overlapped and
non-overlapped regions. Contrast must be
Mirror
Screen
Mirror
attenuated in the overlapped regions to reduce
the level of bright content, and the black level
must be notched up to adjust dark content
in the projected areas with no overlap. These
image adjustments must be made, either within
the projector or by an external image processor.
Edge blending is ideal for applications that require
a large, continuous, display area with very high
resolution.
Table 2-5. Minimum and optimum viewing distance for three 21 ft 4 in (6.5 m) 1600 pixels
common pixel spacings
1
600 x pixel pitch
2
1000 x pixel pitch
Viewing distance calculations from Simpson, Robert S. (1996). LED Tile Array
16 Tiles x 9 Tiles
Videowalls: The Book of the Big Electronic Image, Oxford, United
Kingdom: Focal Press.
www.extron.com 29
Display Devices
A 4K projected image can serve as a perfectly seamless videowall for presenting multiple
high resolution image sources.
Videowall systems are high value investments Videowall Displays Videowall systems are
that require periodic maintenance. They have very Display selection can have a significant impact on high value investments
high duty cycles, and downtime is unacceptable, the total cost of ownership. Operating costs for
that require periodic
especially in mission-critical applications. It is display systems include consumable items such
essential that provisions for service, maintenance, as air filters and lamps for projectors or projection maintenance. They
and total cost of ownership be considered during cubes, plus regularly scheduled cleaning. have very high duty
the system design phase. cycles, and downtime
The brightness and color composition of
is unacceptable,
Planning for maintenance as well as operating projection lamps and LED light sources can drift
costs will ensure end users remain within their over time, requiring periodic recalibration and especially in mission-
operating budgets. This includes a sufficient balancing across displays. Color balancing of critical applications.
stock of consumables and replacement items, displays is a task best performed by an integrator
and scheduling periodic, essential service with experienced, certified technicians. Some
visits to maximize uptime and image quality. projection cube models include automatic color
These measures will help preserve value in the calibration systems that simplify maintenance by
investment. minimizing the time required for color balancing.
All Extron videowall processors are fully supported Professional flat-panel displays are usually
by a three-year parts and labor warranty.
covered by multi-year manufacturer warranties.
For mission-critical installations with large
numbers of flat panels, the end user should
consider having a spare unit on hand to avoid
delays in receiving a replacement from the
manufacturer.
Projection cubes are image retention for their displays. Replacement and color over time than conventional Ultra High
available in models of flat panels can be inconvenient and a surprise Performance - UHP lamps. This will result in lower
expense, so it is advisable to thoroughly examine operating costs, effectively eliminating the cost
offering either rear
a manufacturers specifications and policies associated with light source replacement.
or front access, the regarding image retention on LCD flat panels.
choice of which UHP lamps have lifespans between 6,000 and
can impact the cost Projection Cubes and Projectors 10,000 hours. Projection cubes and projectors
Projection cube designs typically feature an with UHP lamps installed in 24/7, mission-critical
and convenience of
enclosure and removable screen, projection operations will reach the 6,000 to 10,000-hour
maintenance. module, lamp, fan, and filter assemblies that mark much more quickly than systems that
make them very serviceable. Projection cubes are used only during eight-hour work days.
are available in models offering either rear or Table 2-6 lists annual lamp replacement
front access, the choice of which can impact the requirements based on the operating schedule.
cost and convenience of maintenance. Where In general, videowalls with UHP lamps will require
required, the end user should have a stock of a lamp replacement every one to two years.
spare lamps, screens, and projection modules
to minimize downtime in the event of a projector Lamp replacement should be performed by
malfunction, or accidental screen damage. trained technicians. When a new lamp is installed
in a projector cube or projector, color balancing
LED-illuminated projection cubes and projectors is necessary. Therefore, the maintenance budget
have lifespans between 50,000 and 80,000 should include color calibration as part of the
hours, and offer greater stability for brightness labor costs associated with lamp replacement.
RCA BNC
S-Video / Y/C 525 or 625 line interlaced video, High-end consumer video products,
25 Hz - 30 Hz prosumer video editing systems
or
2 BNC S-Video
3 RCA 3 BNC
3 - 5 BNC VGA
DVI
DVI
HDMI
DisplayPort
BNC
BNC
BNC
www.extron.com 35
Input Sources for Videowalls
Proper display of Table 3-2 summarizes the common digital Streamed Content
HDCP-encrypted signal formats. Specifications for digital signals There is a growing need for videowall processors
will continue to advance with the need to to decode video sources that have been streamed
content by a videowall
accommodate higher resolutions and more over networks. Sources may be streamed over a
processor requires capabilities for professional and consumer local area network - LAN, which provides a cost-
that it support HDCP applications. effective, scalable delivery infrastructure. Video
at both the input and may also be delivered from distant locations
HDCP Compliance across a wide area network - WAN.
output connections,
HDMI signals incorporate HDCP, a digital rights
and that HDCP- management scheme to prevent unauthorized A variety of methods are available for decoding
compliant display copying of digital content. Some DVI connections streamed content to be presented on a videowall.
devices are used. also support HDCP. Proper display of HDCP- Scalability and performance requirements for a
encrypted content by a videowall processor videowall may influence the decision to use the
requires that it support HDCP at both the input decoding built into the videowall processor,
and output connections, and that HDCP- or external hardware for decoding streamed
compliant display devices are used. sources.
For more information on digital video, consult Image compression is generally a necessity for
the Extron Digital Design Guide, available at streaming, in order to meet bandwidth limits.
www.extron.com/ddg. The methods employed to compress imagery
for streaming include reducing the resolution,
Local and Client Applications identifying and eliminating redundant spatial
Some videowall processors operate like PCs, detail, and dropping frames.
with the videowall displaying a large, active
desktop. This offers the flexibility to install and The compression, encoding, and decoding
The Extron Digital Design Guide
provides a reference for AV operate software applications or software clients processes can require significant processing
system designers seeking to
understand emerging digital
directly on the videowall system. Many of these time. Whenever streaming sources are used on
technologies, with a practical applications produce ultra-high resolution material a videowall, the quality expectations for sources
approach to integrating these
technologies in new and legacy presented natively across multiple screens. This presented at small and large sizes should be
presentation systems. capability is frequently required for videowalls in considered, as well as the impact streaming
utilities and network operations centers. latency may have for users.Frame dropping can
make presentation of animations, visualizations,
Software applications such as Virtual Network or full-motion video objectionable to the viewer,
Computing - VNC may be used to share imagery and will also introduce a perceived delay equal
from a computer desktop with a videowall to the time span that passes between dropped
processor. This method of delivering a computer frames.
image is effective for presenting static or low
motion imagery, but can be easily overloaded at For more information on video streaming
the client or server end if the content contains t e c h n o l o g y, re f e r t o t h e E x t ro n AV
full-motion video or high-motion visualizations or Streaming Design Guide, available at
animations. The result can be imagery that does www.extron.com/streamingguide.
not update at speeds expected by the user, or
The Extron AV Streaming Design
Guide provides reference
undesired processing loads for the source PC or
data, information on important videowall processor.
technical topics, and real-
world application examples
demonstrating practical uses of
Extron streaming technologies.
The most effective videowall designs apply equal all of which arise from a detailed assessment of Whenever there is
importance to video signal processing and the the end users requirements: a need to present
display technology. For applications that only
The quantity of input sources.
multiple images in
require a single image to be magnified across the
videowall, displays with built-in processing can Locations of the input sources, whether local to windows on the
scale the image across the array. But whenever the videowall processor, dispersed throughout the screens, dedicated
facility, or both.
there is a need to present multiple images in videowall processing
The number of displays in the videowall.
windows on the screens, dedicated videowall
The possible need for the videowall to be scalable, will need to be in the
processing will need to be in the system. It is
therefore critical that the end users intended
so it can be expanded over time with new sources system.
or additional displays without replacing the
application for the videowall be clearly identified processor.
during needs assessment. The amount of space available and locations for AV
equipment, including videowall processing.
The traditional videowall processor architecture
is a unit with inputs, outputs, and specialized Centralized Videowall Processing
processing inside. This was originally based on a Centralized videowall processing, with input and
card-cage platform with input and output cards output signals handled within a single unit, is
and an internal bus to handle signal transfer within ideal for applications in which the sources and
the unit. Videowall processing is also available as displays are local to the processor. See Figure
a system of modules, in which signal processing 3-1. Centralized video processors are available
is distributed or shared between them. Other in a large variety of sizes and formats, from just
videowall processing solutions combine elements a few inputs and outputs, to dozens of device
of these two architectures. connections.
The first important design consideration for Some processors feature a fixed input and output
videowall processing is to determine the configuration in a 2U or 3U chassis. With certain
appropriate architecture, or hardware form factor, models, interchangeable input cards are available
for the application and environment. There are for different signal formats.
several important aspects to take into account,
Auxiliary Display Videowall Auxiliary Display Auxiliary Display Videowall Auxiliary Display
Desktop PC Desktop PC
Desktop PC Desktop PC
www.extron.com 37
Videowall Processor Architecture
An advantage of a Other processors are card-cage designs, and serviced in a single location as a single unit.
centralized videowall populated with different types of input and output This makes a centralized processor potentially
cards that vary depending on the source and simpler to configure and manage than videowall
processor is that it can
display types used. These systems are typically processing architectures with multiple units.
be installed, configured, customized and configured at the factory on a
and serviced in a single built-to-order basis, and typically have from eight Distributed Videowall Processing
location as a single unit. to 16 card slots or more. Depending on the In a distributed videowall processing architecture,
model, card-cage videowall processors usually input and output connections as well as signal
range from 4U to 8U high. processing are distributed among several
modules. Two common forms of distributed
Card-cage processors provide scalability, videowall processing are illustrated in Figure 3-2.
especially when configured with vacant card For the system on the left, each display in the
slots. This allows more input or output cards to videowall is fed by a videowall processing module.
be added over time. Cards can also be swapped A matrix switcher is used to distribute signals
out for system upgrades or maintenance. The from the input sources into the modules. The
addition of a matrix switcher also adds input matrix switcher and modules function together
scalability to a videowall system, as shown in as a single processing system, controlled by a PC
Figure 3-1. or control system over Ethernet.
An advantage of a centralized videowall For the second system in Figure 3-2, sources
processor is that it can be installed, configured, are connected into input modules that convert
signals for distribution over a network. The
streams are received by output processing
The Extron WindoWall Pro modules connected directly to the videowall
employs a distributed
videowall processing displays. Again, a PC or control system is used
architecture with a to manage the modules as a system.
dedicated module for
each display.
Desktop PC Desktop PC
Input Module Distribution Input Module
Matrix Switcher
Desktop PC Desktop PC Network
NETWORK DISTRIBUTION
www.extron.com 39
Videowall Processor Hardware Platforms
The best videowall Centralized videowall processors are based on processing platforms were based on a card
one of two basic hardware platforms. Some are frame with a control processor and a data bus
processor satisfies
purpose-designed, real-time video processing for transporting video from input cards to output
end user input and appliances, similar to traditional AV scalers cards. See Figure 3-4. This design was based
output interfacing and multi-window processors. Others apply a on a combination of advanced video memory
requirements, and also computing architecture as the foundation. Some and high speed bus technologies that made
processors incorporate a combination of these high speed, high volume calculations possible for
fulfills general reliability
platforms. real-time video image scaling, and enabled fast
and performance delivery of video between inputs and outputs.
expectations for Each platform has distinct advantages that
presenting input are valuable in meeting specific application Over time, manufacturers have pursued a variety
requirements. Ultimately, the best videowall of design platforms, capitalizing on advancements
sources with high
processor satisfies end user input and output in high speed data bus technology, commercially
image quality. interfacing requirements, and also fulfills general available off-the-shelf PCBs or PC components,
reliability and performance expectations for and network transport methods. These
presenting few or many input sources with high technologies have been applied in the pursuit of
image quality. Ideally, all image sources should various design goals, including high image quality,
be properly displayed in their windows on the real-time performance, scalability, or cost targets.
videowall, at their original frame rates, free of any
stuttering, image tearing, or other visible artifacts Appliance-Based Videowall Processors
resulting from signal or processing overload. Appliance-based videowall processors are built
on a proprietary hardware platform, designed
Furthermore, videowall processors should with a proprietary controller, high speed video
respond to user or control system commands in bus, and a customized operating system. These
real-time. Any noticeable latency is an indication appliance-type processors are specifically
that the systems processing capability has been designed to provide predictable, real-time
exceeded. In 24/7, mission critical applications, video processing and device control in a stable
the processor also must deliver continuous, operating environment.
failsafe reliability.
Appliance designs can have a fixed configuration
History of inputs and outputs, or be a card-cage chassis.
Introduced in the mid-1980s, the first videowall Fixed I/O processors have a defined number of
Inputs Input cards The Extron WindoWall Pro processor delivers the same high
performance and dependability as all other Extron scaling
and video processing devices.
Outputs Card frame
Bus
Output cards
System performance, based processors, they offer the stability and See Figure 3-5. The input cards, output cards,
dependability, and performance of a standard AV appliance. and bus are engineered to operate as a system,
much like a hardware appliance, requiring
budget are some of
The Extron Quantum Elite and Quantum Connect just minimal loads on the CPU. This ensures
the important factors are videowall processors combining PC and predictable, real-time performance with high
in selecting a videowall appliance platforms. They use a customized, quality images delivered to the videowall.
processor. However, embedded operating system, based on a Additionally, with minimal loading on system
pruned down variation of a standard Windows resources, these processors respond to user
there are many more
operating system. Since the operating system is or control system commands in real-time,
considerations related considerably simplified, fewer system resources without the latency associated with heavy signal
to specific features for and processes are required, which dramatically processing tasks.
image processing and reduces boot time and improves system stability.
The Quantum Elite is available with a removable Summary
other functions.
flash drive, which further optimizes boot time and The ideal videowall processor fully satisfies the
system reliability. requirements of the application, as well as general
end user expectations for reliable operation and
The Quantum Connect and Quantum Elite very high quality images on the displays. System
feature proprietary input and output cards, with performance, dependability, the ability to run
on-board, high performance video processing PC applications on the videowall, and budget
and scaling. They also feature a high speed, are some of the important factors in selecting a
high capacity data bus dedicated to transporting videowall processor. However, there are many
real-time video from input to output cards, more considerations related to specific features
which is physically separate from inter-system for image processing and other functions. These
communication on the PCI bus. will be explored further in the next section.
Figure 3-5. Shared bus vs. dedicated video and data buses
The Extron Quantum Series videowall processors combine PC and appliance platforms, and feature a
dedicated high speed video bus optimized for real-time performance.
Videowall processors are available with a wide sources streamed over a network, potentially up Many videowall
range of features and capabilities. Many of them to hundreds of input sources may be supported. processor features
relate to system performance, image quality, and
relate to system
reliability, while others can help streamline system Redundancy & Accessibility Features
design and integration needs targeted at specific For videowall processors used in mission- performance, image
vertical market applications. Support for these critical or 24/7 environments, redundant and quality, and reliability,
features will vary by manufacturer and model. hot-swappable components are essential. while others can help
Redundant, hot-swappable power supplies keep
streamline system
Most of the features and capabilities discussed processors running during a failure, and facilitate
here are relevant to common videowall system replacement without powering down the unit. design and integration
designs. When selecting a videowall processor, it Hot-swappable fans can quickly and easily be needs targeted at
is important to understand more than just which replaced if necessary. The ability to replace these specific vertical market
source formats, and how many input and output components, without removing the videowall
applications.
channels must be supported. Assessing the processor from the rack, will minimize downtime.
environment and application for the videowall will
help identify the most critical features a videowall Data Storage
processor must support. When comparing Hard drives are one of the first points of failure for
between processors, be aware that manufacturer a PC. Videowall processors with hard drives can
claims of capabilities or performance are often become inoperable if failure occurs. To reduce
represented by inaccurate or misleading this risk, some videowall processors use RAID or
specifications in brochures and on Web pages. removable solid state storage for their operating
systems, rather than a single hard drive.
Dedicated Video Bus Removable solid state storage virtually eliminates
Centralized videowall processors use a data the possibility of hard drive failure, while adding
bus to transport video from their inputs to their the benefit of reduced boot time.
outputs. Some systems incorporate a dedicated
bus for this purpose, while other systems use Upscaling and Downscaling Quality
a common bus for transferring video as well Maintaining image quality is crucial for videowall
as other inter-system communication. Use of a processors, which often display large images
dedicated video bus ensures that the transfer at high resolution, or downsize images into
of video data is not impeded by other activity, smaller windows or thumbnails. Depending
providing more reliable, stutter-free video on the quality of the image processing, scaling
playback, and ensuring the processor responds sources up or down from native resolution can
to user commands in real-time. compromise image integrity. Poor scaling can
produce artifacts, which can make imagery
Scalability ineffective for applications requiring critical
Some end users will want to add more input or analysis of images.
output channels over time. This may be part of a
phased installation, or an unforeseen upgrade. Figure 3-6 on the next page shows how visual
While some processors are easily expandable, information is preserved or lost when high or
some have a fixed configuration, and cannot low quality downscaling is applied. Since image
be changed after leaving the factory. Other quality frequently must be judged subjectively, the
videowall processors are upgradeable, but may best way to assess scaling performance is to see
require on-site support from their manufacturers a videowall processor in operation at a site, or in
to make hardware configuration changes. For a demonstration where the system is displaying
a distributed videowall processing system, or content similar to what will be presented in the
a centralized videowall processor that accepts intended application.
www.extron.com 43
Videowall Processor Features
Incoming source Full Color Depth Processing avoided if quick and accurate input detection was
signals can vary Full color depth processing is required to preserve supported. This capability also makes integration
the quality of 24-bit video or complex graphics of new sources, or temporary sources such as
widely in signal
without introducing color banding. Some guest laptops, simple and easy.
format and resolution. videowall processors reduce the color depth of
Quick, accurate incoming source signals to reduce bandwidth Custom Input Management
input detection and on its video bus. While this helps preserve real- When a videowall processor detects an analog
time performance, color reproduction will be input signal, it typically compares it to a list of
configuration of input
compromised. Figure 3-7 illustrates the color known formats, and selects the closest match
sources is ideal. banding artifact. This bit reduction may not be to determine the signal parameters. Another
noticeable on simple content such as computer technique is to examine certain elements of the
desktops or data screens, but may be noticeable signal, such as sync polarity and line timing,
with high-definition video and rendered graphic and perform a source capture based on VESA
visualizations. standard CVT - Coordinated Video Timing or GVT
- Generalized Timing Formula calculations for the
Accurate Input Detection signal parameters.
Incoming source signals can vary widely in signal
format and resolution. Quick, accurate input Complications can arise if there are non-standard
detection and configuration of input sources is signal formats, or if the sources are altered by
ideal. Slow auto-detection can produce blank upstream signal processing or signal extenders.
windows that are presented for an undesirable Both situations can prevent accurate detection
length of time when switching between window of incoming signals. To correct this problem, a
layouts or input sources. Inaccurate input signal videowall processor should allow customization
detection can result in images shifted horizontally of input signal parameters. This will permit manual
or vertically, displayed at the wrong aspect adjustment of input source sampling to ensure
ratio, or presented with other visual distortions proper source display.
and artifacts. Manual programming to correct
these issues for each input can add weeks of Some processors allow custom source profiles to
programming that could have otherwise been be created for each input, while others allow the
Figure 3-6. High quality scaling maintains critical image details when Figure 3-7. Full color depth processing avoids color banding artifacts
content is downscaled. associated with a reduction in color resolution.
mode table.
Mullion Compensation
When projectors and projection cubes are
stacked next to each other, there is no
appreciable image-to-image gap between the
displays. However, flat-panel displays typically
have a wide physical bezel around the active Mullion
compensation applied
picture area. The active picture area stops at the
inner edge of the bezel. Therefore, when flat-
How to Calculate Mullion Compensation
panel displays are stacked together to form a
tiled display, there can be significant screen-to- Determining the number of pixels a mullion occupies is a simple task. Applying this
calculation can save time that will otherwise be wasted by guessing or eyeballing the
screen gaps across panels. adjustment.
The following example calculation is based on a 52 inch (132 cm) 1080p LCD panel
If a video processor does not account for the with an active viewing area of 45.375 x 25.5 inches (115 x 65 cm). The top and bottom
mullions each measure 0.83 inch (21 mm), and the left and right mullions each measure
gap between displays, the result looks unnatural, 1 inch (25 mm).
as objects that span screens appear to jump
Determine the horizontal pixels per inch - PPI by dividing the number of active horizontal
between them. A processor can compensate for pixels by the width of the active display area:
this effect by clipping away a small percentage of 1920/45.375 in = 44.26 Horizontal PPI
the image which should physically be positioned
Determine the vertical PPI by dividing the number of active vertical pixels by the height of
behind the bezel. See Figure 3-8. The sidebar the active picture area:
details the calculations to determine the horizontal 1080/25.5 in = 42.35 Vertical PPI
and vertical mullion pixel sizes necessary for
Calculate the necessary mullion compensation for the left mullion by multiplying the
proper mullion compensation. width of the left mullion by the horizontal PPI:
display digital encrypted content, all devices in Calculate the vertical mullion compensation using the same approach:
the signal chain must be HDCP-compliant. The Top Mullion Compensation = 0.83 in x 42.35 PPI = 35.15 pixels
increasing use of digital video sources has made
Bottom Mullion Compensation = 0.83 in x 42.35 PPI = 35.15 pixels
HDCP compliance a growing requirement for
Total Vertical Mullion Compensation = 35.15 + 35.15 = 70.3 or 70 pixels
videowall processors.
In the videowall configuration utility, enter a value of 89 pixels for the horizontal mullion
compensation, and 70 pixels for the vertical mullion compensation.
www.extron.com 45
Videowall Processor Features
The greater the Edge Blending Support workgroups in a large room. This capability may
source placement and Some videowall displays comprise multiple not appear to be an obvious requirement when
projectors that overlap with each other to create first specifying the processor.
windowing capabilities
one large, seamless image on a front or rear
of the processor, the projection screen. In these systems, imagery must The greater the source placement and windowing
more flexibility there be duplicated between displays in the overlapped capabilities of the processor, the more flexibility
will be to create the region. Also, brightness, contrast, and special there will be to create the window layouts that
color adjustments must be available in zones to satisfy application requirements.
window layouts that
balance brightness and color across the blended
satisfy application and unblended regions. Multiple Output Resolutions
requirements. Some videowall processors can output multiple
Duplicating the imagery required for edge signal formats simultaneously. This is useful for
blending is a feature that may not be available on systems that incorporate displays of various
every processor. Some processors may support resolutions, such as a videowall comprised
zoned brightness and color adjustments, but of large 1920x1080 projection cubes flanked
this capability can also be supported by many by 1366x768 flat panels as auxiliary displays.
projector models. Dedicated video processors However, processors limited to one output format
are also available that support zoned brightness should feed a signal at the native resolution of
and color adjustments. Careful evaluation of the videowall displays. For auxiliary displays,
projector adjustment and videowall processor signals from the processor may be upscaled or
capabilities are required when designing edge- downscaled to match their native resolutions.
blended systems.
Window Borders, Titles, and Clocks
Flexible Source Placement A videowall processors ability to add colored
A videowall processors ability to display source borders and text to source windows can be a
windows varies greatly from manufacturer to powerful feature in many applications. Colored
manufacturer. Some processors allow up to borders can denote the status of the content in
four source windows to be displayed on a single a command and control room, such as green for
screen, while other processors allow dozens of unclassified data and orange for top secret data.
windows to be presented per screen. The ability In a traffic monitoring environment, a red border
to display the same source in multiple windows or can help highlight an accident, or colors can be
multiple outputs at different sizes can be beneficial used to indicate traffic levels. Overlay text can be
for very wide videowalls servicing segmented used to provide information about the source,
such as the location of a reporter, and the local
time. Clocks displaying the time for different
Figure 3-9. Videowall presentations can be enhanced with
window borders and titles, as well as clocks.
regions or time zones can be generated by many
processors, allowing an integrator to streamline
system designs by avoiding the need for external
clocks or status displays.
A system designer Display devices in a videowall are usually same, even when the desktop orientation is
may favor displays arranged in landscape orientation. However, changed. If the source is a DVD or media player,
a system designer may favor displays in content must be rotated during video production
in portrait orientation
portrait orientation to meet creative or technical and editing, if the player itself cannot perform the
to meet creative or objectives for a project. Figure 3-10 illustrates a rotation.
technical objectives for comparison between videowalls with landscape
a project. and portrait-oriented panels. It shows that the The videowall processor. A few videowall
use of vertical displays may produce a more processors can rotate their outputs to
compelling presentation of images and objects. accommodate portrait displays. This avoids the
need to rotate content at the source device.
Rotating Source Content for Portrait However, image rotation is not a common feature
Displays of videowall processors.
Source content must be rotated 90 degrees for a
videowall with portrait-oriented displays, so that it The displays. A growing number of flat-
appears upright and not on its side. Content can panel displays support use of either landscape
be rotated at the source, the videowall processor, or portrait orientation. However, this feature is
the displays, or using an external device. designed for single displays in retail or digital
signage applications, and assumes the content
The source. If the source is a PC, content has been formatted properly.
can be rotated and then output to the videowall.
When the desktop orientation is switched from An external device. For applications where
landscape to portrait within the operating system, content cannot be rotated at the source,
content is automatically rotated. Note that the videowall processor, or displays, specialized
output signal format from the PC remains the devices are available for rotating images.
Figure 3-11. A strategy for producing and presenting content on a videowall with portrait displays
Original 1920x1080 Content Content rotated during video production Content adjusted during video production
to fill video frame
4 Content processed by videowall processor to fill displays 5 Displays are physically rotated to achieve portrait effect
Content rotated during video production Content adjusted during video production
VIDEO DISK DRIVE LAN
JMP 9600
JPEG 2000 MEDIA PLAYER
to fill video frame
1 2 3 4 1 2
PREV
ENTER
DATA
Displays are physically rotated to achieve portrait effect
www.extron.com 49
Videowall System Control
Working with a Videowalls are among the most complex types interface that provides access to all of its setup
videowall processor of AV systems to set up and configure. Most of and control functions. Some processors can also
the operational complexity is within the videowall be configured through their internal Web pages,
will be greatly simplified
processor and its many functions, features, and accessed by a client Web browser over the
if an intuitive, user- capabilities. Working with a videowall processor network or the Internet.
friendly interface is will be greatly simplified if an intuitive, user-friendly
available for system interface is available for system configuration and Control Application Software
creating window layouts. The more intuitive the Most videowall processors require use of
configuration and
interface, the more streamlined the setup and specialized application software for setup and
creating window configuration process will be. configuration. For a PC-based processor, the
layouts. application can usually be run on the unit itself,
Videowall system designs should include while for other processors, a PC runs the software
consideration for the end user interface, in terms and connects to it as a client. See Figure 3-12.
of how staff will operate the videowall. Videowall
control should streamline the users workflow. This The application software aids in navigating
may be accomplished by providing a touchpanel through the many functions and features for
with simple button selections for window presets videowall processing. It includes a GUI and
or input sources, or by tying these functions into usually groups controls and functions into a
control room system management software. logical organization of essential tasks, such as
configuring the inputs for incoming source signal
Basic Control formats, defining the videowall configuration
Small, simple videowall processors can be and setting up the displays, and creating and
configured and operated from a front-panel saving window layouts. The application software
Figure 3-12. Control application software can run on the videowall processor, or a PC connected
as a client.
On-board Control
Monitor
Client Application
Control Application Server Application
DVI
Ethernet
Mouse OR
Figure 3-13. Extron Quantum Series videowall processors have a dedicated PC connected at all times
to initiate control commands. This isolates control functions from on-board processing resources,
optimizing system performance.
External Control
Control Application
Ethernet
Videowall Processor
Desktop PC
Videowall Processor
Running Control Application on Dedicated PC
Ethernet
Ethernet
Control VLAN
Ethernet
includes a virtual canvas that lets you visualize the For the Quantum Elite and Quantum Connect
window layout as it is being created and drag- processors, the PC running the application
and-drop windows onto or off the canvas. software serves as the interface to the control
system.
Dedicated PC for Setup and Control
For most videowall processors, the software is no While the application software can be used for
longer required once configuration is complete. system control, the user interface usually includes
However, some videowall processors, notably far more functions and options than necessary for
the Extron Quantum Elite and Quantum Connect a staff member or system operator, often without
require that a PC be connected at all times with detailed knowledge of working with the system.
the application running. See Figure 3-13. The Rather than making the application software
PC is not just an interface for a user, but also available to end users, it is usually preferred to
initiates control commands to the processor. create a simplified control interface with a series
Compared to PC-based videowall processors of button selections, so a user only needs to
that run the control application internally, the use control the most common or essential functions
of an external PC isolates control functions from on a videowall selecting an input source or
on-board processing resources. This eliminates a pre-programmed window preset. This can
operational load on the CPU, optimizing response be provided through a custom GUI from a
time and speed when recalling window presets touchpanel, or custom software interface created
or performing other operations, especially with by the application software or other third-party
large systems. software managing control over other processes.
See Figure 3-14.
Remote System Control
Videowall processors can be controlled using Large Facility Control
the application software, or a control system Many large facilities, such as command and
through the RS-232 or Ethernet control ports. control rooms require that management of
www.extron.com 51
Videowall System Control
For most videowalls all communications including AV be centrally source window content are the most frequent
applied in working integrated into a single control system. This allows actions performed on the videowall.
multiple room operations to be performed from a
environments such as
common GUI. The system can be programmed End users may state they want the ability to place
presentation rooms, to incorporate videowall window layout and input any image anywhere, and control everything,
control rooms, and source selection, with buttons provided in the but are often unaware of exactly how complex
retail or signage user interface alongside other communications this can make system management. In most
functions. Videowall-specific controls may also cases, five to ten pre-defined window layouts,
displays, simple user
be provided separately on a touchpanel for an AV plus the ability to change source window inputs,
controls will suffice control system. provides sufficient flexibility. Other potentially
for staff or a system desirable tools may include source identification
operator to manage On-Demand vs. Show Control or labeling, window borders, image zooming, and
For most videowalls in working environments other functions. These are best programmed and
the display.
such as presentation rooms and control rooms, made available as button presets.
simple user controls will suffice for staff or a
system operator to manage the display. However, Show Control
entertainment-oriented applications call for Videowalls used in retail stores, museums,
elaborately timed, dynamic presentations, which or other public spaces often include specially
may require a system operator to be trained in created productions that include presentation of
the use of show control software that provides looped video content, with creative visual effects
access to a wide, free-flowing set of time-based timed to video edit points or events in the content.
effects. The ideal control method will depend on To coordinate videowall actions with the content,
the environment and application requirements an audible SMPTE or EBU timecode signal is
defined by the end user. recorded onto one of the audio tracks for the
content. This is supplied to a PC running a show
On-Demand Control control application to provide the time reference
In work environments or live entertainment for initiating commands, as well as a reference for
applications, changes to the videowall typically actions on other show control devices. The show
are triggered on-the-fly by an operator or end control computer releases control commands
user. Recalling window presets and changing to the videowall processor or its control PC,
triggered by the incoming timecode signal.
The control application software for the Extron Quantum Elite features a virtual canvas for
designing videowall display layouts.
SWITCHING
www.extron.com 53
Additional Videowall System Elements
The ability to transport signals, while fiber optic extenders can extend be required for program audio. A videowall can
audio, video, and signals up to 2 km (6,560 ft) with multimode fiber, display many video signals, but program audio
or up to 30 km (18.75 mi) with singlemode fiber. typically originates from only one of the displayed
graphics streams
sources. The systems control interface should
across a data network Fiber Interfacing allow for the selection of audio sources. Matrix
has revolutionized Fiber optic cabling can be used to transmit video, switchers for routing video can also manage
many signal distribution audio, and data over extreme distances with audio distribution, as can standalone audio
zero signal degradation and complete immunity switchers.
applications.
from outside electrical interference. Signals sent
through fiber are also inherently secure, due to An audio signal processor with DSP and matrix
the absence of electrical emissions, making fiber mixing can be used for routing and supplemental
the preferred choice for government, military, and audio processing such as volume, equalization,
medical applications. and mixing program audio with a microphone
or other audio source. Once a program audio
Fiber technology is becoming more and more source is selected and processed, the signal will
common, and is the new standard for AV system need to be amplified and sent to speakers. The
designers and integrators creating future-proof size of the amplifiers and the type and number of
AV systems. There has been a longstanding speakers required will depend on the application,
perception that fiber is difficult to work with, but the size of the room, and required sound level.
new, affordable, easy-to-use termination systems
now make terminating fiber cable assemblies as Streaming and Recording
easy as crimping a BNC. The ability to transport audio, video, and graphics
streams across a data network has revolutionized
Extron offers a wide variety of switching, many signal distribution applications. Live and
distribution, and signal extension products with pre-recorded content can now be delivered
direct fiber connections. They are available to across greater distances to larger audiences
designers specifying the most secure, highest more efficiently than ever before. By utilizing the
quality signal delivery devices in their systems. infrastructure provided by LANs, WANs, and
public networks, audio, video, and graphics
The Extron Fiber Optic Design
Guide provides tutorials on fiber For more information on fiber optic technology, can be delivered anywhere in the world. These
optic technology and cabling,
and provides practical examples
consult the Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide, multimedia streams can be decoded by
of fiber system designs. available at www.extron.com/fiberguide. hardware devices, videowall processors, PCs,
and smartphones or tablets. They can also be
Audio captured and stored with recording devices,
While a videowall may support a rooms viewing allowing for future playback of recorded content
requirements, additional signal management may for training or debriefing purposes.
KEYBOARD / MOUSE
EXTENSION AND SWITCHING
Network Switch
www.extron.com 55
Notes
Traffic Management
Utility Operations Center Center
Simulation Debriefing
Corporate Lobby Theater
Corporate Presentation
Auditorium
Executive Conference Room
Source Connectivity
All sources connect to an XTP CrossPoint 1600 matrix switcher.
The document camera, desktop PC, digital media player, satellite
receiver, and videoconference camera are permanent sources, while
the system accommodates a mobile device and a laptop PC for
meeting participants. An RGB-HDMI 300 A analog-to-HDMI scaler is
deployed ahead of the matrix switcher for compatibility with sources
Overview that require RGB or component connections.
Conference rooms are places where people meet and share information,
either in person, or via teleconference. Their AV systems frequently include Display Systems
videowalls to display a variety of video sources simultaneously at high Two WUXGA, HDCP-compliant projectors arranged in a 1x2 edge-
resolution. Meeting participants often bring mobile devices to connect and
display on the system. They expect plug and play with high image quality.
blended configuration provide an overall display resolution of 3456
HDCP capability will be needed to support the latest digital video sources. pixels by 1200 pixels. The 3456 horizontal pixels reflect a 10 percent
Different window layouts should be available to accommodate various meeting overlap for edge blending. The WindoWall processors provide the 384
requirements. The touchpanel control system should be intuitive and simple overlapped pixels required in the blended zone, while the projectors
enough for use by non-technical users. perform the brightness and gamma correction.
Room Needs Assessment Switching and Signal Management
Staffing Operator technical expertise will be unpredictable,
as meeting participants will vary and can include One XTP CrossPoint 1600 matrix switcher connects to the four inputs
outside vendors. Additionally, operators will have of each WindoWall processor, as well as the videoconference codec.
little to no time to become familiar with the control The fully non-blocking topology allows any combination of sources
system, requiring that it be very simple and to appear at any of up to eight windows on the videowall. The
intuitive to use.
XTPCrossPoint 1600 and the WindoWall 102 Pro DI feature Extron
Display An edge blended videowall, occupying an area EDIDMinder to ensure that sources power up properly and reliably
Requirements roughly 10 ft x 3.5 ft (3 m x 1 m), able to display
at least eight sources at various sizes and output content for display, while Key Minder maintains continuous
locations on the screen. HDCP authentication between sources and displays for quick and
Source Types Permanently installed sources include a reliable switching.
videoconference codec, document camera, PC,
satellite receiver, and a media player. The system Network
must have provision for connecting a variety of
mobile sources. All connections to the switcher The network includes a Layer 2 switch for the WindoWall processors,
are HDMI. XTP matrix switcher, and control system.
System Control A simple touchpanel interface is needed for
selecting window layout presets and sources, as System Control
well as videoconference control. An Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch (25 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and
Special End user is in the media business. Full-motion an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet control processor are used to control the
Requirements video quality is a high priority. WindoWall processors and XTP CrossPoint 1600 matrix switcher. The
touchpanel provides a selection of preset window configurations, with
live source selection within each preset. The touchpanel is also used
to control videoconference calling.
Extron Extron
WindoWall 102 Pro DI HDMI WindoWall 102 Pro DI HDMI
Multi-Window Processing System Multi-Window Processing System
MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES
REMOTE LAN REMOTE LAN
1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17 1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422 RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18 6 9 12 15 18
G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/ G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX 100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 7 10 13 16 19
B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V
B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV
50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI 50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI
Extron
TLP 1000TV
10" TouchLink
Tabletop
Touchpanel
HDMI
COM1 COM 2 IR RELAY
TX RX RTS CTS TX RX 1 2 1 2
14
58
HDMI
INPUTS
Ethernet
Digital Media Player
912
TCP/IP
1316
REMOTE
RS-232/RS-422
LAN
Network Ethernet
iPad iPhone RESET
or Ethernet
ACT LINK
L R L R L R L R
14
HDMI Adapter
AUDIO
OUT
L R L R L R L R
58
OUTPUTS
L R L R L R L R
912
OUT
Extron 1316
RGB/R-Y,Y,B-Y AUDIO
RGB - HDMI 300 A HDMI OUTPUT Tx Rx
Videoconferencing Camera
VGA Audio
Videoconferencing Codec
Laptop
DVI
PUSH PUSH
DVI to HDMI Adapter
POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV
www.extron.com 59
Utility Operations Center
Source Connectivity
The 16 PCs connect to an XTP CrossPoint 3200 modular HDMI
matrix switcher, configured with 16 inputs and 32 outputs.
S G S G
POWER
LAN
12V
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4
S G S G
Ethernet Ethernet
TCP/IP
Network
Ethernet Ethernet
1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17 1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422 RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18 6 9 12 15 18
G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/ G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX 100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 7 10 13 16 19
B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V
B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV
Ethernet
50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI 50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI
HDMI HDMI
Extron
WindoWall 102 Pro DI
Multi-Window Processing System
MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES
REMOTE LAN REMOTE LAN
1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17 1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422 RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18 6 9 12 15 18
G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/ G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX 100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 7 10 13 16 19
B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V
B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV
50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI 50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI
HDMI
HDMI Equipped PC
HDMI HDMI
POWER
12V
--A MAX
INPUTS
HDMI AUDIO
ON
AUDIO
L R
OVER XTP
RS-232 IR
SIG LINK
RESET
CATx Cable
Extron
HDMI LOOP-THRU OFF XTP T HDMI XTP OUT
XTP SR HDMI
+ + ACT LINK
Tx Rx Tx Rx
LAN
Extron POWER
12V
SIG LINK
OVER XTP HDMI AUDIO
OUTPUTS
AUDIO
S/PDIF
RELAYS
XTP SR HDMI
REMOTE
Flat Panel Display
XTP T HDMI
RS-232 IR ON 1 2 RS-232
--A MAX L R
RESET
HDMI Equipped PC
HDMI HDMI
POWER
12V
INPUTS
HDMI AUDIO
ON
AUDIO OVER XTP
SIG LINK
Extron
CATx Cable XTP SR HDMI
--A MAX L R RS-232 IR RESET
Extron
INPUTS
POWER
12V
SIG LINK
OVER XTP
RS-232 IR
HDMI AUDIO
ON
OUTPUTS
AUDIO
S/PDIF
RELAYS
1 2
XTP SR HDMI
REMOTE
RS-232
Flat Panel Display
2 3 4 5
L R
1
--A MAX
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
RESET
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
WiFi
HDMI Equipped PC 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
1 3
HDMI
HDMI 2 4
POWER
INPUTS SIG LINK
OUTPUTS
POWER
Extron
XTP SR HDMI
12V
HDMI AUDIO AUDIO OVER XTP
ON
CATx Cable
--A MAX L R RS-232 IR RESET
Extron
SIG LINK OUTPUTS XTP SR HDMI
POWER OVER XTP HDMI AUDIO S/PDIF
12V AUDIO RELAYS REMOTE
RS-232 IR ON 1 2 RS-232
--A MAX L R
RESET
CATx Cable
XTP T HDMI
XTP IN ACT LINK Tx Rx Tx Rx
OFF HDMI + +
LAN Tx Rx
12V
HDMI AUDIO AUDIO OVER XTP
ON
CATx Cable
--A MAX L R RS-232 IR RESET
Extron
SIG LINK OUTPUTS XTP SR HDMI
POWER OVER XTP HDMI AUDIO S/PDIF
12V AUDIO RELAYS REMOTE
RS-232 IR ON 1 2 RS-232
--A MAX L R
RESET
XTP T HDMI
LAN
www.extron.com 61
Corporate Lobby
Source Connectivity
Corporate promotional videos and still images are supplied by two
PCs connected to the Quantum Connect through two DVI inputs. A
high definition satellite receiver provides broadcast programming to
the Quantum Connect through an HDMI input. A Blu-ray player is also
connected to an HDMI input.
Display Systems
Overview
As a physical entry point into a company, corporate lobbies are spaces in Forty-eight MicroTiles provide an overall display resolution of
which lasting first impressions are made through presentations of corporate 5760x3240 in a space 128 inches wide by 72 inches tall (3.25 m by
culture and mission, done with dramatic visual impact. For technology- 1.8 m). The MicroTiles are driven by 12 dedicated ECU processors,
oriented companies, lobbies should reflect both the creativity and innovation
that exist beyond the waiting area. A quality videowall display can present
which receive signals from the Quantum Connect.
compelling corporate content and showcase the latest company products
and services. Content can be customized to welcome key clients, providing a Switching and Signal Management
personal touch in a business environment. All source switching is managed internally by the Quantum Connect
videowall processor.
Room Needs Assessment
Network
Staffing A single receptionist to operate the system on a
daily basis. AV staff members to configure content The network includes a Layer 3 Ethernet switch, configured with a
and presentation of the system for special events. dedicated VLAN for the Quantum Connect and its control PC, and
Display A bright, attractive display 6 feet high by another VLAN for the control system components.
Requirements 10 feet wide (1.8 m by 3 m), with the ability to
simultaneously display up to four sources. System Control
Source Types Two PCs providing high resolution corporate System control is facilitated by an Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch
content, a satellite receiver providing high
definition broadcast programming, and a Blu-ray (25 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet control
player providing high definition video playback. processor, which interfaces via RS-232 with the control PC running
System Control A simple touchpanel interface for selection of the Quantum Connect control software. The touchpanel provides
window layout presets and source selection within a simple, easy-to-navigate interface, which allows a non-technical
each preset. operator to easily select from six preset window configurations, and
Special Ease of use is a primary concern, as the select sources within each preset.
Requirements system will often be controlled by non-technical
personnel.
MicroTile ECU
(12 places)
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
CONTROL
WARNING
SEE USER GUIDE BEFORE
USING THIS EQUIPMENT
DO NOT REMOVE THIS PANEL
NO USER-SERVICEABLE
Extron
PARTS INSIDE
REFER ALL SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
Quantum Connect
GROUNDED/EARTHED
DO NOT OBSTRUCT
VENTILATION GRILLES
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT
Videowall Processor
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
System
DVI
Ethernet
Quantum Connect
Control Software
DVI
Ethernet
Control
VLAN
PC PC
HDMI Blu-ray Player
RS-232
HDMI
DSS Receiver
COM1
TX RX RTS CTS
COM 2
TX RX 1
IR
2
RELAY
1 2
Extron Extron
Ethernet POWER
12V
LAN
S G S G
IP Link Control
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4
S G S G
Processor Touchpanel
Ethernet
www.extron.com 63
Corporate Presentation Auditorium
HDCP-Compliant
4K Projector
Control
VLAN
Ethernet HDMI HDMI
HDCP-Compliant Videowall
Processing System
Ethernet
Extron
TLP 1000TV
10" Tabletop
TouchLink
Touchpanel
Quantum Elite
QUANTUM CONNECT 408
VIDEO WALL PROCESSOR
Control Software
Extron
JMP 9600 2K HD-SDI HD-SDI HDMI 3G-SDI HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI DVI
HD Video Player
JMP 9600
JPEG 2000 MEDIA PLAYER
1 2 3 4 1 2
PREV
ENTER
RS-232
COM1 COM 2 IR RELAY
Document Camera
TX RX RTS CTS TX RX 1 2 1 2
Desktop PC
S G S G
POWER
LAN
12V
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4
S G S G
Extron WiFi 1 2 3 4
IPL 250
IP Link Control Processor
Laptop
Blu-ray Player
PUSH PUSH
POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV
Satellite Receiver
or
Camera
iPhone
HDMI Adapter
iPad
www.extron.com 65
Command Center
Source Connectivity
The 12 PCs displaying low-motion content are connected to 12
Extron QGE 100 IP encoders and streamed over the network to
the Quantum Elite. The four PCs displaying high-motion content are
connected directly to the videowall processor, two to a Quantum
Elite dual DVI input card, and two to a Quantum Elite dual RGB input
Overview card. The satellite receivers and Blu-ray player are connected to two
Command centers aggregate a wide variety of video and data for monitoring Quantum Elite dual HDMI input cards, and the three facility security
and analysis. In order to efficiently make critical decisions, staff members camera feeds are connected to a Quantum Elite 12 video input card.
need to analyze various sources in close proximity to each other, in a variety
of layouts. The solution requires that any of the video and data sources be Display Systems
presented on a large display, in a variety of easily selectable window layouts.
Twelve HDCP-compliant 1080p flat-panel displays provide an overall
display resolution of 23040x2160, in a space 312 inches wide by
Room Needs Assessment 60 inches tall (7.9 m by 1.5 m).
Staffing Numerous information specialists monitor one or
more video or data sources. A shift manager is Switching and Signal Management
also present to periodically change information as
needed on the large centralized display. All source switching is managed internally by the Quantum Elite
videowall processor.
Display A multi-screen videowall, occupying an area
Requirements roughly 5 feet high by 26 feet wide (1.5 m by
7.9 m), able to present at least 12 HD 1080p Network
sources at native resolution. A dedicated media network for the QGE 100 encoders includes
Source Types Twelve PCs displaying map and data sources with a Layer 3 Ethernet switch configured to support multicast traffic
low motion, four PCs displaying visualizations with
and IGMP snooping to ensure efficient performance. A VLAN is
moderate to high motion, three standard definition
security cameras, three HD satellite feeds, and provided for the QGE 100 encoders, together with the Quantum Elite
one Blu-ray player. processor and the PC running QGE 100 viewer software.
System Control A simple touchpanel interface for selecting
window layout presets, as well as source A dedicated control network includes the same Layer 3 switch,
selection for each preset. configured with a separate VLAN for the Quantum Elite and its control
Special The shift manager needs to be able to view map PC, and another VLAN for the control system components.
Requirements and data sources on a separate viewing station.
System Control
System control is facilitated by an Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch
(25 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet
control processor, which interfaces via RS-232 with the control PC
running the Quantum Elite control software. The touchpanel provides
a selection of ten or more preset window configurations, and allows
source selection within each preset, providing a highly flexible and
simple interface.
HDMI HDMI
Ethernet Ethernet
Control
VLAN
Extron
Quantum Elite
Scalable Multi-Graphic
Videowall Processor
MEDIA I MEDIA II
Ethernet Ethernet System
Extron
TLP 1000TV
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
COMPLIANT
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
HDCP
10" Tabletop TouchLink
Touchpanel
CONTROL
Quantum Elite
Control Software IN IN IN IN IN OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
ATTENTION
OBSERVE PRECAUTIONS
FOR HANDLING
ELECTROSTATIC
SENSITIVE
DEVICES
Extron
RS-232
IPL 250
IP Link Control
Processor
WARNING
COM1 COM 2 IR RELAY
TX RX RTS CTS TX RX 1 2 1 2 SEE USER GUIDE BEFORE
USING THIS EQUIPMENT
DO NOT REMOVE THIS PANEL
S G S G
POWER
LAN
NO USER-SERVICEABLE
12V PARTS INSIDE
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY
MAX 3 4 3 4 REFER ALL SERVICING TO
1 2 3 4 TX RX
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE
S G S G GROUNDED/EARTHED
DO NOT OBSTRUCT
VENTILATION GRILLES
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE
Composite or S-video
HDMI
Blu-ray Player
CCTV
Cameras
STANDBY/ON
PQLS HDMI OPEN/CLOSE FL OFF
USB
DSS Receiver
RGB HDMI
Ethernet
DVI
PC Ethernet
Extron
QGE 100 PC Extron
Encoder Ethernet QGE Ethernet QGE 100
Video Encoder
Network
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
Extron VLAN Extron
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN
QGE 100 Ethernet Ethernet QGE 100
12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN
Encoder
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel
Encoder
RGB PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN 12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN
DVI
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel
Extron
QGE 100 DVI Extron
Encoder Ethernet Ethernet RGB QGE 100
Encoder
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN
Encoder
DVI-I DVI-I Refer all servicing to
qualified service personnel DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel
RGB
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC
EncoderCOM 1 COM 2
12V DC
REG
OUT IN 12V DC
REG
OUT IN
DVI
1.5A MAX 1.5A MAX
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel
Extron
QGE 100
DVI Extron
Encoder Ethernet Ethernet RGB QGE 100
Encoder
Extron
Extron
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
12V DC OUT IN
QGE 100 12V DC OUT IN
QGE 100
REG REG
Encoder
RGB
DVI
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
DVI
RGB
www.extron.com 67
Traffic Management Center
Source Connectivity
Overview The 80 available traffic camera feeds and four satellite receivers are
Traffic Management Centers centralize information from traffic cameras and connected to the videowall processor through seven Quantum Elite
specialized applications for monitoring and managing traffic flow. Operators 12 video input cards for composite or S-video. The two PC sources
use local monitors to view maps and traffic status. A large display presents are connected to a Quantum Elite dual RGB input card.
video from any of the regions traffic cameras, to be viewed as either a
thumbnail or large image, while simultaneously displaying specialized high
Display Systems
resolution graphics sources.
Twelve 80 inch (203 cm) SXGA+ rear projection cubes provide an
overall display resolution of 8400x2100, in a space 384 inches wide
Room Needs Assessment by 96 inches tall (9.75 m by 2.4 m).
Staffing Numerous operators monitor and manage
traffic data on local displays. A shift manager is Switching and Signal Management
also present to select which maps, traffic data,
and camera feeds are highlighted on the large All source switching is managed internally by the Quantum Elite
centralized display. videowall processor.
Display A multi-screen videowall, occupying an area
Requirements roughly 7.5 feet high by 32 feet wide (2.3 m by Network
9.75 m), able to present 70 to 80 traffic camera
feeds and graphical maps. A dedicated media network for the VN-Matrix streaming system
utilizes the organizations existing Layer 3 LAN and WAN, configured
Source Types Eighty standard definition signals displaying traffic
camera feeds, four standard definition signals to support multicast traffic and IGMP snooping to ensure efficient
displaying satellite television sources, and two performance.
PCs displaying high resolution graphical map and
traffic data. A dedicated control network includes a Layer 3 Ethernet switch,
System Control A simple touchpanel interface that facilitates configured with a VLAN for the Quantum Elite and its control PC, and
window layout preset selection, and source a separate VLAN for the control system components.
selection within each preset.
Special The system must include the capability to stream System Control
Requirements a smaller representation of the videowall to a
cooperative agency. The shift manager needs System control is facilitated by an Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch
to be able to highlight camera feeds by applying (25 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet
colored borders and titles to source windows. control processor, which interfaces via RS-232 with the control PC
running the Quantum Elite control software. The shift manager uses
the touchpanels intuitive user interface to select from several window
layout presets, and assigns any source to larger windows on the
videowall. Colored borders can also be placed around windows to
call attention to sources.
Incident
Incident
Clearing Cleared
DVI DVI
Ethernet
Control
VLAN
Extron
VNE 225 DVI
Ethernet VN-Matrix Encoder
IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232
IN
POWER OVER LAN
OUT/
LOOP
MEDIA I MEDIA II
5A MAX SPDIF
DVI
CONTROL
Extron DVI
TLP 1000TV
IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232
IN
POWER OVER LAN
TouchLink
5A MAX SPDIF
Touchpanel 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Extron
Ethernet
VNE 225 DVI
VN-Matrix Encoder
Quantum Elite ATTENTION
Control Software
OBSERVE PRECAUTIONS
FOR HANDLING
ELECTROSTATIC
SENSITIVE
DEVICES
LAN
Ethernet
WARNING
SEE USER GUIDE BEFORE
USING THIS EQUIPMENT
DO NOT REMOVE THIS PANEL
NO USER-SERVICEABLE
PARTS INSIDE
REFER ALL SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE
GROUNDED/EARTHED
DO NOT OBSTRUCT
VENTILATION GRILLES
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE
Extron WAN
RS-232
Quantum Elite
Scalable Multi-Graphic
COM1 COM 2 IR RELAY
TX RX RTS CTS TX RX 1 2 1 2
RGB
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4
S G S G
Extron RGB
IPL 250 Composite Composite Ethernet
IP Link Control Processor
IP Decoder IP Decoder
Box Box
DVI OUT PoE DVI OUT PoE
POWER POWER
- + - +
DSS Receivers
(4 places) Composite IP Video IP Video
Stream Stream
Composite
Traffic Cameras IP Video Cameras
(100+ Locations) (50+ Locations)
Cooperative Agency
Extron Extron
VND 225 DVI VND 225 DVI
VN-Matrix Decoder VN-Matrix Decoder
REMOTE RS-232 IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232
IN TO PC
Clearing Cleared IN
IN
POWER POWER OVER LAN
OVER LAN
OUT/ OUT/
LOOP LOOP
www.extron.com 69
Simulation Debriefing Theater
Source Connectivity
The out-the-window view from three simulation systems connect via
DVI to three Extron VN-Matrix 225 IP codecs. These codecs provide
input loop-throughs that go to the videowall processor through
Quantum Elite dual DVI input cards. Three image generators for each
simulation system are connected to an Extron MGP 464 Multi-
Graphic Processor via RGB, in which the three feeds are windowed
Overview into a single DVI output. The DVI outputs from the three MGP 464
Simulation systems provide land, sea, and air environments for virtual missions units connect to three additional VN-Matrix 225 codecs. The input
for the training of military personnel. Team members interact with one another loop-throughs of these codecs connect to the videowall processor
during training missions run by a presentation manager. The presentation through Quantum Elite dual DVI input cards.
manager controls the session, triggering the engagements and challenges
team members encounter. Large video display systems present live or pre- The six VNC 225 codecs, two Extron VNM Recorders, and an Extron
recorded simulation sessions, enabling side-by-side comparisons of each
VNM Enterprise Controller connect to a media network. The
participants actions. This allows for critical mission analysis, both in real-time
by the session manager, and by the participants themselves when replayed VNM Recorders are used to archive sessions and can replay content
from an archiving system. on the videowall. The VNM Enterprise Controller is used to control
and manage the VNM Recorders and VN-Matrix 225 codecs.
System Control
System control is facilitated by an Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch
(25 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet control
processor, which interfaces via RS-232 with the control PC running
the Quantum Elite control software. The IPL 250 also interfaces with
the VNM Enterprise Controller via RS-232. The touchpanel provides
six window layout presets, and source selection within each preset.
The touchpanel can also be used to start or stop archiving, and replay
70 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
saved missions on the videowall.
Edge-Blending Edge-Blending Edge-Blending
Projector Projector Projector
DVI DVI DVI
Ethernet
Control
VLAN
Extron
Ethernet Quantum Elite
Videowall Processing
System
Ethernet Ethernet
MEDIA II
CONTROL
Extron
MEDIA I
WARNING
TLP 1000TV
SEE USER GUIDE BEFORE
USING THIS EQUIPMENT
DO NOT REMOVE THIS PANEL
NO USER-SERVICEABLE
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Quantum Elite
Control Software
Ethernet
Ethernet
Extron
VNM Enterprise Controller
VN-Matrix Enterprise Controller Ethernet
RS-232
RS-232 Layer 3
COM1
TX RX RTS CTS
COM 2
TX RX 1
IR
2
RELAY
1 2
Network
Switch
S G S G
POWER
LAN
12V
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4
S G S G
Extron
IPL 250
IP Link Control
Processor
Extron Extron
VNM Recorder VNM Recorder
VN-Matrix Recorder VN-Matrix Recorder
0
10
20 30 40 50
60
70
320
310
300
290
280
270
340
330
260
250
0
350
240230
10 20
30 40 50
170
70
80
150
160
90
100
110
120
130
140
DVI
8090
340350
330 100
320 110
Extron
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190
20 30 40 50
10 60
0 70
8090
340350
330 100
320 110
310 120
Extron
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190
RGB
VNC 225 DVI
IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232
RGB OUT/
LOOP
VN-Matrix Codec
Multi-Graphic Processor
12V DC AUDIO
1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN
RGB
5A MAX SPDIF
1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18
Extron Ethernet
G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232
B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V
OUT/
LOOP
HDMI to DVI
310
300
290
280
270
340
330
320
260
250
0
350
240230
10 20
30 40 50
170
70
160
80
90
100
140
150
110
120
130
DVI DVI
20 30 40 50
10 60
0 70
8090
340350
330 100
Extron
320 110
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190
20 30 40 50
10 60
0 70
8090
340350
330 100
320 110
310 120
Extron
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190
RGB
VNC 225 DVI
IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232
RGB OUT/
LOOP
VN-Matrix Codec
Multi-Graphic Processor
12V DC AUDIO
1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN
RGB
5A MAX SPDIF
1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18
Extron Ethernet
G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 REMOTE RS-232
IN TO PC
B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V
OUT/
LOOP
260
250
0
350
240230
10 20
30 40 50
170
70
160
80
90
100
140
150
110
120
130
DVI
20 30 40 50
10 60
0 70
8090
340350
330 100
320 110
Extron
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190
20 30 40 50
10 60
0 70
8090
340350
330 100
320 110
310 120
Extron
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190
RGB
VNC 225 DVI
IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232
RGB OUT/
LOOP
VN-Matrix Codec
Multi-Graphic Processor
12V DC AUDIO
1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN
RGB
5A MAX SPDIF
1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18
Extron
G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
Ethernet
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 REMOTE RS-232
IN TO PC
B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V
OUT/
LOOP
www.extron.com 71
Notes
WindoWall Pro
Multi-Window HDCP-Compliant
Videowall Processing System
The Extron WindoWallProSystem is a
powerful and versatile, yet user-friendly
approach for multi-display videowall systems.
It features a highly scalable architecture that
delivers optimum performance and reliability.
Full HDCP compliance at all HDMI inputs
and outputs assures worry-free presentation
of protected content. WindoWallConsole
software is the user interface to the system,
facilitating intuitive, straightforward control
and configuration of videowall systems, and
the creation of presentations with multiple,
independent windows for displaying graphics,
HDTV, and video. WindoWallPro is typically
used to manage images on two to six screens.
The WindoWallProSystem is an ideal choice
WindoWall Pro Processor
for applications that require highly reliable,
multi-window videowall systems.
FEATURES:
Scalable videowall systems from 1x2 up to 2x3
and larger
Inputs - per WindoWallPro processor: Four
universal analog video inputs on BNCs for
RGBHV up to 1920x1200 and 2K, component
video up to 1080p/60 HDTV, S-video, or
composite video; live background input on
HDMI; and four optional HDMI inputs
Output - per WindoWallPro processor: Scaled
picture-in-picture output on HDMI and BNCs as
RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB, or HD component video
Dedicated high performance video and graphics
processing for each display or video cube
Four independent windows per display of video,
HDTV, and high resolution computer-video
Wizard-based graphical user interface for
videowall system setup
RGB, HDTV component video, and HDCP-
compliant HDMI output
HDCP Visual Confirmation provides a green
signal when encrypted content is sent to a non- WindoWall Console Software
compliant display EDID Emulation provides selectable resolutions
KeyMinder continuously verifies HDCP and refresh rates to ensure reliable operation
compliance for quick, reliable switching Text overlay for window caption labeling
Virtual canvas for on-screen videowall 100 memory presets for videowall layout
visualization and dynamic window placement configurations
and sizing 3:2NTSC and 2:2PAL pulldown detection
Optional HDMI inputs Aspect ratio control
Selectable output rates from 640x480 to Internal test patterns for calibration and setup
1920x1200, including HDTV1080p/60 and 2K Ethernet monitoring and control
Adjustments for window positioning, sizing, RS-232 and RS-422 control port
zoom, and priority; background and window Rack-mountable 2U, full rack width metal
border color selection enclosure with included brackets
GraphicStillStore enables use of uploaded Includes LockIt HDMI cable lacing brackets
graphics as background images
Internal universal power supply
Live video background from a dedicated HDMI
Product Commissioning Services available
source
MODEL VERSION PART#
WindoWall 102 Pro Two Processors for 1x2 Walls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-177-02
WindoWall 102 Pro DI Two Processors with HDMI for 1x2 Walls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-177-12
WindoWall 103 Pro Three Processors for 1x3 Walls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-177-03
WindoWall 103 Pro DI Three Processors with HDMI for 1x3 Walls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-177-13
Quantum Connect
HDCP-Compliant Videowall Processing System
The Extron Quantum Connect is an
HDCP-compliant videowall processor that
delivers the same high quality video scaling,
windowing capability, and reliable, real-time
performance as Extrons flagship Quantum
Elite. QuantumConnect is ideal for small
to medium-sized videowalls with two to 14
screens in installations with permanent AV
system configurations. It supports a wide
variety of input, output, and windowing
capabilities in a small form factor, and features
high performance video scaling technology
capable of producing superior quality images.
The Quantum Connect is a non-expandable
card-cage design that is populated at the
factory with user-selected combinations of
input and output cards for 3G-SDI, HDMI, DVI,
RGB, HDTV or video sources. Each HDMI or
DVI-I dual output card supports up to 128
video/graphic source windows.
FEATURES:
Videowall processing for mid-sized videowalls
with up to 14 displays
Card frame videowall processing system
available with eight slots
Supports 3G-SDI, HDMI, DVI, RGB analog, HD
component, and standard video input signals
Two input 3G-SDI card accepts SDI, HD-SDI,
and 3G-SDI signals from 270Mbps up to
2.97Gbps
HDMI, DVI, and RGB analog output options
support many display types
HDCP-compliant input/output options
HDCP Visual Confirmation provides a green
signal when encrypted content is sent to a non-
compliant display
Key Minder continuously verifies HDCP Quantum Connect Control Software
compliance for quick, reliable switching
High speed, dedicated video/graphic bus
delivers real-time performance
Dual HDMI/DVI output card supports resolutions
Dual input card for DVI signals
up to 1920x1200 and HDTV1080p/60Hz
12-channel video input card supports any mix of
HDCP encryption status LEDs on HDMI inputs
composite or S-video signals
and outputs
Dual input card for analog RGB or HD
Dual DVI/RGB output card supports resolutions
component video signals
up to 1920x1200 and HDTV1080p/60Hz
High quality image upscaling and downscaling
Up to 128 video/graphic windows per dual
output card Supports digital and analog input signals up to
1920x1200
Bezel Compensation for Flat-Panel Displays
Easy-to-use configuration and control software
Dual input card for HDMI or DVI graphics and
video Optimal reliability for critical environments
MODEL
Call Extron for part numbers and prices
Note: Part numbers and pricing for complete system configurations are available. Please contact your
Extron customer support representative for more information. The Quantum Connect is factory-configured
with the I/O configuration specified at time of ordering. It is not field-expandable. For applications requiring
future expansion in the field, see the Quantum Elite.
www.extron.com 75
Large, Scalable Videowall Processors
Quantum Elite
HDCP-Compliant Scalable Videowall Processing System
The Extron QuantumElite is an HDCP-
compliant, scalable, expandable videowall
processor configurable to support a variety
of input, output, and windowing capabilities.
It features high performance video scaling
capable of producing very high quality images.
The QuantumElite offers two card cages that
support various combinations of input and
output cards for 3G-SDI, HDMI, DVI, RGB,
HDTV or video sources. Hundreds of additional
DVI or RGB sources can be streamed over
an IP network to the QuantumElite using the Quantum Elite 615
Extron QGE 100 graphics capture encoder.
Each HDMI or DVI-I dual output card supports
up to 128 video/graphic source windows, and
multiple QuantumElite card cages can be
cascaded to create very large display arrays.
A dedicated, high-speed video/graphic bus
maintains real-time performance even under
heavy loading of inputs.
FEATURES:
Scalable videowall processing for large
videowalls with up to 28 displays or more
Card frame videowall processing system
available with 8 or 15 slots
Scalable, field-expandable systems: Extron field
staff can add cards or cascade card frames to
add more inputs and outputs
Supports 3G-SDI, HDMI, DVI, RGB analog, HD
component, and standard video input signals
Two input 3G-SDI card accepts SDI, HD-SDI,
Quantum Elite Control Software
and 3G-SDI signals from 270Mbps up to
2.97Gbps Dual input card for HDMI or DVI graphics and
HDMI, DVI, and RGB analog output options video
support many display types Dual input card for DVI signals
HDCP-compliant input/output options Dual input card for analog RGB or HD
HDCP Visual Confirmation provides a green component video signals
signal when encrypted content is sent to a non- 12-channel video input card supports any mix of
compliant display composite or S-video signals
Key Minder continuously verifies HDCP IP streaming enables interfacing of hundreds of
compliance for quick, reliable switching RGB/DVI input signals with QGE100 Quantum
High speed, dedicated video/graphic bus Graphics Encoders
delivers real-time performance Background keying for stored image files
Dual HDMI/DVI output card supports resolutions High quality image upscaling and downscaling
up to 1920x1200 and HDTV1080p/60Hz Supports digital and analog input signals up to
HDCP encryption status LEDs on HDMI inputs 1920x1200
and outputs Easy-to-use configuration and control software
Dual DVI/RGB output card supports resolutions Solid state flash storage in 15-slot frame
up to 1920x1200 and HDTV1080p/60Hz eliminates risk of virus retention and allows
Up to 128 video/graphic windows per dual simple removal of system data
output card Ruggedized real-time operating system and
Output Overlap for Edge-blended Applications power redundancy features support 24/7
Bezel Compensation for Flat-Panel Displays operation
MODEL VERSION
Quantum Elite 408 4U/8 Slot Card Frame
Quantum Elite 615 6U/15 Slot Card Frame
Note: Part numbers and pricing for complete system configurations are available. Please contact your
Extron customer support representative for more information.
QEC I2SDI
Quantum Elite 3G-SDI Input Card
FEATURES:
Accepts two SDI, HD-SDI, or 3G-SDI signals Motion adaptive deinterlacing delivers optimized
on two HD-BNC connectors - standard BNC image quality through advanced motion
adapters included compensation
Accepts data rates from 270 Mbps to 2.97 Gbps Film mode cadence detection and processing
Compatible with SDI, HD-SDI, and 3G-SDI ensures optimum image quality is retained for
signals from standard definition 480i and 576i to sources originating from film
HDTV 1080p/60 Hz Automatic input cable equalization maintains
Auto input source detection simplifies system signal integrity when long cable runs are required
programming to streamline integration of new
sources into the Quantum Elite
MODEL VERSION
QEC I2SDI Two Input 3G-SDI Card
QEC I2HDMI
Quantum Elite HDMI Input Card
FEATURES:
Accepts two HDMI or DVI-D signals Auto input source detection simplifies system
Compatible with resolutions up to 1920x1200 programming to streamline integration of new
and HDTV 1080p/60 sources into the Quantum Elite
HDCP-compliant when used with Quantum Native 4:4:4 color quantization
Elite HDMI output cards and HDCP-compliant High performance scaling technology optimizes
displays real-time image processing capacity for the
dedicated video/graphic bus
MODEL VERSION
QEC I2HDMI Two Input HDMI Card
QEC I2DVI
Quantum Elite DVI Input Card
FEATURES:
Accepts two DVI-D input signals Native 4:4:4 color quantization
Compatible with resolutions up to 1920x1200 High performance scaling technology optimizes
and HDTV 1080p/60 real-time image processing capacity for the
Auto input source detection simplifies system dedicated video/graphic bus
programming to streamline integration of new
sources into the Quantum Elite
MODEL VERSION
QEC I2DVI Two Input DVI Card
QEC I2RGB
Quantum Elite RGB/HD Component Video Input Card
FEATURES:
Accepts two RGBHV, RGsB, and YPbPr input Native 4:4:4 RGB and 4:2:2 HD color
signals quantization
Compatible with resolutions up to 1920x1200 High quality motion adaptive 1080i deinterlacing
and HDTV 1080p/60, and supports custom High performance scaling technology optimizes
resolutions real-time image processing capacity for the
Auto input source detection simplifies system dedicated video/graphic bus
programming to streamline integration of new
sources into the Quantum Elite
MODEL VERSION
QEC I2RGB Two Input Analog RGB/YUV Card
www.extron.com 77
Large, Scalable Videowall Processors
QEC I12VID
Quantum Elite Video Input Card
FEATURES:
High density input configuration allows for up to High performance scaling technology optimizes
12 composite or S-video source connections real-time image processing capacity for the
Accepts NTSC, PAL, and SECAM standard dedicated video/graphic bus
definition video in any combination Native 4:2:2 color quantization
Accommodates any mix of composite or S-video High quality de-interlacing
sources High quality composite video decoding
Auto input source detection simplifies system Time base stabilization and automatic gain
programming to streamline integration of new control for adaptability to poor quality video
sources into the Quantum Elite sources
MODEL VERSION
QEC I12VID 12 Input Video/S-Video Card
QEC O2HDMI
Quantum Elite HDMI Output Card
FEATURES:
Two HDMI outputs deliver HDMI or DVI signals to Display up to 128 windows per output card
drive two videowall displays Customize windows with captions, borders, and
HDCP-compliant when used with Quantum Elite titles
HDMI input cards and HDCP-compliant displays Output resolutions up to 1920x1200 and HDTV
High performance scaling technology with 1080p/60
dedicated image processing for
low and high resolution video optimizes images
for the videowall displays
MODEL VERSION
QEC O2HDMI Two Output HDMI Card
QEC O2
Quantum Elite DVI-I Output Card
FEATURES:
Two DVI-I outputs deliver DVI or analog RGB Display up to 128 windows per output card
signals to drive two videowall displays Customize windows with captions, borders, and
High performance scaling technology with titles
dedicated image processing for low and high Output resolutions up to 1920x1200 and HDTV
resolution video optimizes images for the 1080p/60
videowall displays
Delivers consistent, high quality image
performance regardless of input load
MODEL VERSION
QEC O2 Two Output DVI/RGBHV Card
QGE 100
DVI/RGB Computer Screen Capture IP Encoder
The Extron QGE 100 Quantum Graphics Allows simple connection of a DVI or RGB
Encoder is used to stream RGB or DVI screen source to an IP network
captures from PCs or other graphic sources Streams standard, routable IP packets on an
to QuantumElite videowall processors. It existing network or a dedicated media network
provides high scalability, allowing hundreds Lossless compression with 4:4:4, 24-bit color
of sources such as maps, data screens, and source reproduction maintains image fidelity
other low-motion graphic input signals to be while minimizing network bandwidth
interfaced to QuantumElite over an IP network. Compatible with DVI input resolutions up to
The QGE100 applies high performance, 1920x1200 and analog RGB input resolutions up
lossless compression with 4:4:4, 24-bit color to 1600x1200
source reproduction while using low bandwidth Operates independently of source machine
streaming into a QuantumElite processor or operating system and hardware
QGE100 Viewer software. Imposes no additional load on the source
machine CPU performance
Image compression and user-defined bit rate
FEATURES:
settings limit network traffic
Stream RGB or DVI computer-video screen
Interface hundreds of DVI or RGB inputs into the
captures to the QuantumElite over an IP
QuantumElite
network
HDCP-Compliant Displays
PCs
DVI
DVI
HDMI
CCTV Cameras
POWER DATA
Composite or S-video
HDMI
DSS Receivers HDMI QUANTUM ELITE
Extron
Quantum Elite QGE 100
Scalable Multi-Graphic Videowall Processor System Viewer software
Quantum Elite
Control Software
Control
Extron VLAN
Extron
QGE 100 QGE
QGE 100
Encoder Video
Encoder
Network
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN
RGB Encoder
DVI
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
Extron
DVI Extron
QGE 100 RGB
Encoder QGE 100
Encoder
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
Extron PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
12V DC
REG
OUT IN
QGE 100
1.5A MAX 1.5A MAX
Encoder
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel
12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN 12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN DVI
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel
DVI
RGB
www.extron.com 79
Large, Scalable Videowall Processors
S3 Videowall Commissioning
Product Commissioning Service for
Extron Videowall Processors
Extron Videowall Commissioning is a proactive,
on-site service that ensures your Quantum
Elite, Quantum Connect, or WindoWall Pro
processing system meets your customers
specifications for performance. An Extron
Systems Design Engineer - SDE will provide
personalized assistance, from conception to
completion, to help you deliver a system that
fully meets the expectations of your customer.
FEATURES:
Extron on-site support services for Quantum
and WindoWall Pro videowall processors
Ensures videowall system designs meet
performance requirements
Pre-installation design review and assistance
On-site support with an Extron Systems
Design Engineer
Videowall product performance optimization
and configuration
Videowall system operator training
10 arc minutes
19 arc minutes
Arc Minutes
A unit of angular measurement used to describe how much of a
viewers vision is occupied by an object. An arc minute is equal to
1/60 of a degree, with 360 degrees comprising a complete circle.
Intra-system Data
Bus
A path for transporting voltages, signals, or a ground between
the different sections of an electronic device, such as a data bus
between a CPU and memory or a peripheral device, or a video bus
between the inputs and outputs of a video processor. Its width is
determined by the number of lines (conductors) that make up the
bus, and its speed (data transfer rate) is determined by the circuits
that drive the lines.
AV Glossary
Antialiasing
A technique in computer graphics for smoothing jagged edges
C
by blending shades of color or gray along the edges. Some video
C2
devices, such as character generators, have an antialiasing feature
Command and Control. An organization of personnel, equipment,
to minimize aliasing through filtering and other techniques. Also see
communications, facilities, and procedures managed by a command
Aliasing.
structure for planning, directing, coordinating, and controlling forces
and operations in the accomplishment of a mission. There are
Arc minutes
variants of the C2 acronym which incorporate subordinate activities,
A unit of angular measurement used to describe how much of a
including: C2I - Command, Control and Intelligence; C2ISR -
viewers vision is occupied by an object. An arc minute is equal to
Command, Control, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance;
1/60th of a degree, with 360 degrees comprising a complete circle.
C3I - Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence; and C4I
- Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence.
Aspect ratio
The relationship of the horizontal dimension to the vertical dimension
CAT 5
of an image. In viewing screens, standard TV is 4:3, or 1.33:1; HDTV
Category 5. Describes the network cabling standard that consists
is 16:9, or 1.78:1. Sometimes the :1 is implicit, making TV = 1.33
of four unshielded twisted pairs of copper wire terminated by RJ-45
and HDTV = 1.78.
connectors. CAT 5 cabling supports data rates up to
100 Mbps. CAT 5 is based on the EIA/TIA 568 Commercial Building
ATMS
Telecommunications Wiring Standard.
Advanced Traffic Management Systems. Specialized systems that
integrate technology to improve the safety and flow of traffic on
Cathode ray tube
public roadways. Such systems serve to reduce fuel consumption
A vacuum tube that produces light when energized by the electron
82 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
AV Glossary
beam generated inside the tube. A CRT has a heated cathode of a TV monitor adjustment, which increases or decreases the level of
and grids in the neck of the tube, making up the gun. Electrons contrast of a displayed picture. Also called white level.
are accelerated from the gun toward the front surface of the tube
(screen), producing a beam. The surface on the back of the screen Contrast ratio
is coated with phosphors that light up when struck by the electron The ratio of a displays highest light output level divided by its lowest
beam. The CRT in a TV is known as the picture tube. CRT projectors light output level.
had three guns one for each red, green and blue color.
Crosshatch
Chrominance (chroma or C for short) A test pattern consisting of vertical and horizontal lines used for
The signal used in video systems to convey color information converging a color display device.
separately from the accompanying luma signal (or Y for short).
Chrominance may be represented as either a single signal or CRT
as two signals. S-video comprises one chrominance signal and See cathode ray tube.
one luminance signal, while component video comprises two
chrominance signals and one luminance signal. CVT
Coordinated Video Timings. A VESA standard defining signal timing
Client information for computer-video signals. Signal parameters are
A computer or network device that uses information supplied by a determined using a formula based on horizontal and vertical blanking
server. intervals, horizontal frequency, vertical frequency, and horizontal and
vertical sync polarity. CVT superseded the GTF standard.
Color depth
Describes the number of bits used to represent the color of a single
pixel in a bitmapped image or video frame buffer. A common bit depth
D
applied to computer graphic signals is 8-bits each for Red, Green and
Blue. An 8 bit depth will produce 256 levels and 256 raised to the 3rd Digital
power, results in a resolution of over 16 million colors. A system of data or image values in the form of discrete, non-
continuous codes, such as binary. When data is in a digital format,
Component digital it can be processed, stored (recorded), and reproduced easily while
Digital video using separate color components, such as Y, Cb, maintaining its original integrity.
Cr. Digital recording formats such as D1 (Sony, BTS/Philips) and
D5 (Panasonic) utilize component digital recording technology. DisplayPort
Component digital is the digital representation of the component A digital audio/video interconnect standard designed primarily for use
analog signal set, Y, B-Y, R-Y; it is often represented as 4:2:2. The between a computer and display device. DisplayPort supports data
encoding parameters are specified by ITU-R BT.601-2 (formerly rates up to 10.8 Gbps at a distance of two meters over standard
known as CCIR 601). copper cable. DisplayPort is not directly compatible with DVI or HDMI,
but a DisplayPort connector can pass these signals, and the standard
Component video does provide an emulation mode for ease of integration with DVI or
Color television systems start with three channels of information: red, HDMI equipped products.
green, and blue (RGB). In the process of translating these channels
to a single composite video signal, they are often first converted Distribution amplifier
to Y, R-Y, and B-Y. Both three-channel systems, RGB and Y, R-Y, A device that distributes multiple outputs from a single source
B-Y, are component video signals. They are the components that input. Distribution Amplifiers (DAs) not only split signals, but provide
eventually make up the composite video signal. Higher quality amplification and enhancement features to maintain signal integrity.
program production is possible if the elements are assembled in the
component domain. DLP
Digital Light Processing. An imaging technology for video projection
Composite video developed by Texas Instruments, based on the modulation of light
An all-in-one video signal comprised of the luma (black and white), reflected from mirror elements known as Micromirrors. Each pixel
chroma (color), blanking pulses, sync pulses, and color burst. is represented by its own Micromirror, which mechanically tilts in
accordance to the extent of light reflected toward or away from
Compression the screen. A matrix of Micromirrors comprising the video image is
The art and science of reducing the amount of data required to situated on a microchip, or DMD (Digital Micromirror Device). DLP
represent a picture or a stream of pictures and sound before sending is implemented as a three-chip configuration (one DMD for each of
or storing it. Compression systems are designed to eliminate the RGB colors), or as a one-chip configuration (R, G, and B are
redundant or visually imperceptible information to the desired data sequentially processed by a single DMD via a color wheel).
level while allowing the original information to be reproduced at the
desired quality. DMT
Display Monitor Timing. A VESA standard defining signal timing
Contrast information for computer-video signals. DMT was superseded by the
The range of light and dark values in a picture, or the ratio between GTF standard.
the maximum and the minimum brightness values. It is also the name
www.extron.com 83
AV Glossary
HDTV
HDCP
High Definition Television. HDTV refers to a complete product/system
High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection. A digital rights
with the following minimum performance attributes: a receiver that
management scheme developed by Intel to prevent the copying
receives ATSC terrestrial digital transmissions and decodes all ATSC
of digital video and audio content. HDCP is mandatory for the
Table 3 video formats; a display scanning format with active vertical
HDMI interface, optional for DVI. HDCP defines three basic system
scanning lines of 720 progressive (720p), 1080 interlaced (1080i), or
components: source, sink, and repeater.
higher; aspect ratio capabilities for displaying a 16:9 image; receives
and reproduces, and/or outputs Dolby Digital audio.
Sources send content to the display. Sources can be set-top boxes,
Blu-ray Disc players, computer-graphics cards, and so forth. A source
can have only one HDCP transmitter. High definition video
Refers to any video system of higher resolution than standard
Sinks decrypt the content so it can be viewed. Sink is typically used definition (SD) video, and most commonly involves display resolutions
to describe a flat panel display, television, or projector. Sinks can have of 1280720 pixels (720p) or 19201080 pixels (1080i/1080p).
one or more HDCP receivers.
I
Repeaters sit between Sources and Sinks. They accept content,
decrypt it, then re-encrypt and transmit. Internally, a Repeater may Illuminance
provide signal processing, such as scaling, splitting out audio for use The light density (the luminous flux divided by area) shining onto a
in an analog audio playback system, or splitting the input data stream surface. This is the specification that measures how bright a screen is
for simultaneous viewing on multiple displays. Switchers, matrix lit by a projector or ambient light. The unit is lux. 1 lux = 1 lumen/m2.
switchers, and distribution amplifiers are all examples of Repeaters.
Interlacing
HDMI Interlacing is the process of scanning the picture onto a video screen
High-Definition Multimedia Interface. An interface used primarily in whereby the lines of one scanned field fall evenly between the lines of
consumer electronics for the transmission of uncompressed high the preceding field.
definition video, up to eight channels of audio, and control signals,
over a single cable. HDMI is the de facto standard for HDTV displays, IP
Blu-ray Disc players, and other HDTV electronics. Introduced in 2003, Internet Protocol. The protocol or standard used to send information
the HDMI specification has gone through several revisions: from one computer to another on the Internet.
HDMI 1.3 Increased single-link bandwidth to 340 MHz for signal ISR
resolutions beyond 1080p/60. Added support for Deep Color, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance. Activities relevant to
automatic lip sync correction, and Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master information gathering methods applied in the observation of a criminal
audio. or enemy area of operations, in support of current and future military
or law enforcement operations.
www.extron.com 85
AV Glossary
Mullion Pixel
The physical bezel surrounding the screen of a display device. Picture Element. The smallest unit or area of a video screen image
Stacking display devices to form a videowall creates a criss- that can be turned on or off, or varied in intensity.
cross pattern of space between the active screen areas, with the
appearance of mullions in a window pane. Pixel density
The number of pixels per unit area on a screen. Pixel density is
Multicast commonly expressed as pixels per inch - PPI.
Multicast addressing is a network technology for one-to-many
communication over an IP infrastructure in a network. Multicast uses Pixel resolution
network infrastructure efficiently as the source sends packets only In computer graphics and video images, the number of pixels in the
once, regardless of the number of receivers. Network nodes replicate display. For example, a picture with 1024x768 pixels is much sharper,
packets to reach multiple receivers, minimizing network traffic. or has higher resolution, than a picture with 640x480 pixels. The total
number of pixels is the product of these two numbers.
N Portrait
Orientation of a display device so that it is taller than it is wide.
Native resolution
Refers to the single fixed resolution of an LCD, plasma, or other fixed
PPI
matrix display. An image said to match the native resolution of a
Pixels per Inch. PPI is a common unit of measurement for pixel
display is one where pixels between the image source and display are
density.
perfectly aligned and require no scaling or other signal processing.
Progressive scan
Nit
A method by which all video scan lines within a frame are presented
A unit of measurement of luminance, or the amount of light leaving
on the screen in one pass instead of two. Typically denoted by the
a surface in a specific direction. One nit is equal to one candela per
letter p, as in 480p, which indicates a signal with 480 active lines
square meter - cd/m2. Nits are commonly used when specifying the
running at 60 frames per second.
brightness of flat-panel displays and videowall projection cubes.
Protocol
NOC
A set of agreed-upon standards that define the format, order, timing,
Network Operations Center. A facility used to monitor and manage
handshaking, and error checking method for data transfer between
system operations for telecommunications and network providers.
two pieces of equipment.
Noise
Any unwanted signal that adversely affects the quality of the picture R
or sound.
Real-time
NTSC A video system is said to be real-time if it outputs motion content that
National Television System Committee. The analog television system is synchronized with the input signal, and at the original refresh rate.
used in most of North America, South America, Japan, South Korea, Systems are generally not considered to be real-time if there is some
Taiwan, Burma, and some Pacific island nations and territories. processing latency, or frames are dropped.
www.extron.com 87
AV Glossary
RGBS 10 bit depth and 4:2:2 color quantization. Ancillary data is included
The Red, Green, and Blue chroma information in a video signal, with and typically is comprised of audio or other metadata. Up to sixteen
a separate channel for the combined horizontal and vertical sync audio channels can be transmitted. Audio is organized into blocks of
signals. four stereo pairs.
RGsB Server
Red, Green, Blue, and Sync on Green. A three-wire signal with A PC whose primary function is to provide data, images, or
separate red, green, and blue video signals with the sync (horizontal applications to a host or client PC.
and vertical) travelling on the same wire as the green signal.
Single-link DVI
The electrical signaling used to transmit data over DVI is known as
S Transition Minimized Differential Signaling, or TMDS. A single TMDS
link carries three data channels and one clock signal, with a maximum
Scaler video frequency of 165 MHz, capable of standard resolutions up to
A device that takes a standard video signal, decodes it, and uses 1920x1200 pixels. See also Dual-link DVI.
advanced digital signal processing technology to scale the image
to the optimal or native resolution of a display device. (Usually at a
SMPTE
higher rate).
Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers. A global
organization, based in the United States, that sets standards for
Scaling baseband visual communications. This includes film as well as video
Scaling is changing the size of an image to fit the native rate (or pixel and television standards.
size) of a display device, without changing its shape. For example,
to fit a 720x480 resolution TV image on a 1024x768 XGA resolution
Software
display, the TV image has to be scaled up; pixels need to be
The programs used to instruct a processor and its peripheral
created in order for the original image to fill the screen. Alternately, to
equipment to perform prescribed operations.
fit a 1280x1024 SXGA resolution image on an XGA resolution screen,
the image will need to be scaled down; pixels need to be removed
SOC
from the original image in order for it to fit on the screen. There are
Security Operations Center. A location within a building where staff
many different methods for image scaling, and some produce better
monitors and manages security-related tasks for an organization. This
results than others.
may include monitoring live camera feeds, reviewing security camera
recordings, electronically monitoring building access, and controlling
SCADA
lighting, alarms, and vehicle barriers.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. Generally refers to industrial
control systems used to monitor and manage industrial infrastructure,
SOG
or facility-based processes used in manufacturing, production,
Sync On Green. The combined horizontal and vertical sync signals
power generation, fabrication, and refining processes. Facility-
integrated with the green video signal.
based processes may be applied to public or private organizations,
including oil and gas pipelines, electrical power transmission and
SVGA
distribution, water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection
Super VGA. A screen resolution of 800x600 pixels and above.
and treatment, wind farms, or large communication systems.
S-video
Scan
A composite video signal separated into the luma (Y is for luma, or
(1) In video, to move an electron beam across the raster in a camera
black and white information; brightness) and the chroma (C is an
or monitor. (2) To feed visual information into a computer by means of
abbreviation for chroma, or color information).
an optical device called a scanner.
Switch
SCIF
A device that cross-connects network devices. Today, switches are
Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility. An enclosed room or
broadly deployed on modern industrial and consumer networks.
area that is used to process Sensitive Compartmented Information
Switching is a Layer 2 function. Ethernet frames are delivered
- SCI level classified information. The classified information may
between MAC addresses connected to network switches.
be contributed from various intelligence sources or methods, and
must be handled in a defined method. All activity and conversation
Switched fabric
occurring inside an SCIF is restricted from public disclosure.
A network topology where network nodes connect with each other
via one or more network switches (particularly via crossbar switches,
SD
hence the name). The term is in contrast to a broadcast medium,
Standard Definition.
such as early forms of Ethernet.
SDI
SXGA
Serial Digital Interface. Standard definition video is carried on this
Super Extended Graphics Array. A graphics standard with a resolution
270 Mbps data transfer rate. Video pixels are characterized with a
of 1280x1024 (1,310,720 pixels), with an aspect ratio of 5:4. This
exceeds XGA (1024 x 768, at 786,432 pixels).
88 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
AV Glossary
SXGA+ V
Super Extended Graphics Array Plus. Commonly used on 14 inch or
15 inch laptop LCD screens with a resolution of 1400 1050 pixels. VESA
Video Electronics Standards Association. A nonprofit member
T organization dedicated to facilitating and promoting personal
computer graphics through improved standards for the benefit of the
Thumbnail end-user.
A small representation of a larger image.
VGA
Time code Video Graphics Array. A widely used analog interface between a
A digital or binary code used to label each frame of a video signal, computer and monitor that uses a 15-pin plug and socket. The
notated by hours, minutes, seconds, and frames. Used extensively original VGA resolution was 640x480 pixels.
for synchronization, and for logging, identifying, and editing recorded
media. Video
A format for transmitting and storing moving pictures. Video is
TMC transmitted and stored in various analog and digital physical formats.
Transportation Management Centers. Facilities where real-time traffic
data from cameras, speed sensors, and other data are integrated VLAN
for the purposes of incident detection and the management of Virtual LAN. A group of devices on a network with a common set of
regional traffic. TMC staff is responsible for identifying incidents and requirements that communicate as if they were attached to the same
dispatching public safety or maintenance services, messaging, or broadcast domain, regardless of their physical location. A VLAN
other actions to improve the flow of traffic. is a Layer 3 network function. A group of network devices can be
grouped together into a functionally separate logical network. VLAN
Touchpanel and their network traffic will be segmented from other devices that
A control panel with a flat surface (usually with graphic divisions may be connected to the same physical system.
or buttons) that functions as a switch or control. Also called a
touchscreen. Videowall
A grouping of display devices to produce a single image across the
array, or visually subdivided to show multiple images simultaneously.
U The display array is typically driven by a video processor that provides
a separate output to each display.
UHP
Ultra High Performance. A mercury arc lamp technology developed
by Philips in 1995 for use in commercial and consumer projectors. W
Underscan WXGA
A decreasing of the raster size (H and V) so that all four edges of the Wide-XGA defines a class of XGA displays with a width resolution
picture are visible on the screen. Underscanning allows viewing of sufficient to create an aspect ratio of 16:9. Resolution is defined as
skew and tracking that would not be visible in normal (overscanned) the number of individual dots that a display uses to create an image.
mode. It is also helpful when aligning test charts to be certain they These dots are called pixels. A WXGA display has 1366 to 1280
touch all four corners of the raster. Likewise, when checking the horizontal pixels and 768 to 720 vertical pixels respectively that are
alignment of multiplexer images from a film chain, underscan allows used to compose the image delivered by the projector.
proper framing of projected images going into the video camera.
X
Unicast
The sending of messages to a single network destination host on XGA
a packet switching network. Sending a separate copy of the media Extended Graphics Array. A screen resolution of 1024x768 pixels.
stream from the server to each recipient.
USB Y
Universal Serial Bus. Up to 127 external computer devices may
be added through a USB hub. USB devices can be attached or YUV
detached without removing computer power. Defines color space in terms of Y luminance or brightness, and two
color-difference components, U - red minus luminance and V - blue
UXGA minus luminance. YUV is interchangeable with Y Cb Cr for digital
Ultra Extended Graphic Array. 1600x1200. A UXGA display has component video and Y Pb Pr for analog component video.
1600 horizontal pixels and 1200 vertical pixels giving a total display
resolution of 1,920,000 individual pixels.
www.extron.com 89
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Powered Product Three years parts and labor. Touchscreen display and overlay components
Warranty carry a one year parts and labor warranty, while the electronic components
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