VIDEOWALL SYSTEMS

DESIGN GUIDE
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 visual content could be shared for critical
analysis and decision-making.

Extron offers multiple videowall processing solutions with the industry-leading Quantum® Series of processors. They
provide scalable solutions for installations ranging from small conference rooms or retail displays up to large, mission-
critical command and control facilities, and anything in between. Quantum Ultra II, featuring support for single-path
4K/60 signals, Vector 4K scaling, and the future-ready 500 Gbps HyperLane video bus, is the latest addition to the
Quantum product line.

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. 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, command and control rooms, and more.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

VIDEOWALL SYSTEMS DESIGN FOR PROFESSIONAL AV SYSTEMS

Introduction to Videowalls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Where are Videowalls Used?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Why a Videowall?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Reasons to Learn More. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Needs Assessment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Choosing the Right Videowall Shape and Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Choosing the Right Display Size and Resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Font Size and Legibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Display Devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Videowall Maintenance and Cost of Ownership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Input Sources for Videowalls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Videowall Processor Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Videowall Processor Hardware Platforms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Videowall Processor Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Videowall System Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Additional Videowall System Elements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

VIDEOWALL SYSTEM DESIGNS

Utility Operations Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Corporate Presentation Auditorium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Command Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Museum Exhibit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Simulation Debriefing Theater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Traffic Management Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
University Student Center Atrium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Corporate Lobby and Collaborative Theater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Educational Medical Facility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

EXTRON VIDEOWALL PRODUCT SOLUTIONS

Scalable Mid-Sized and Large Videowall Processors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Small Videowall Processors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
WindoWall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Everlast Power Supplies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Vector 4K Scaling Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Videowall System Commissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

GLOSSARY

AV Glossary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Introduction to Videowalls
Videowalls are used to provide numerous sources of information viewable by everyone in the room.
What is a Videowall?
A videowall is a display and processing system comprising
an array of displays that function together as a single,
cohesive unit. When compared to a single display, a
videowall typically provides a much larger picture size with far
greater pixel resolution since multiple screens are combined
to form an image. Videowalls are ideal for displaying large
images and simultaneously presenting multiple computer or
video sources.
As its name implies, a videowall usually dominates a
significant portion of a wall. Videowalls can be built with the
same aspect ratio as a standard display. They can also be
just about any desired shape, orientation, or form factor and
comprised of as few as two screens or as many as 100.
How are Videowalls Used?
Videowalls are frequently used to provide numerous sources
of visual information for easy viewing by everyone in a
room, such as a network operations center or command
and control room. They are also commonly used for digital
signage to create impact and attract attention through large
images in corporate lobbies, transportation hubs, retail
locations, and other public environments.
­2 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Los Angeles Regional Traffic Management
Center – CalTrans District 7
Videowalls have traditionally been implemented by large
enterprises with the financial means to justify the substantial
integration cost. Advancements in display and video
processing technologies, together with the increasing
affordability of displays and projectors, have resulted in more
videowalls in a wider variety of environments.
What are the Essential Components of a Videowall?
Videowall displays: Videowalls can be comprised of LCD
flat panels, projectors, direct-view LED panels, or projection
cubes. For many years, projection cubes were the most
popular choice for videowalls due to their thin screen bezel that
minimized disruption of the image. LCD displays have since
become the device of choice thanks to their small physical
footprint and technological advances that have greatly reduced
screen bezel size to be comparable with projection cubes.
Architectural displays are similar to LCD displays or projection
cubes. Typically, they are available in compact sizes that lend
themselves to creating unique shapes and arrangements.
Projectors can be used in front projection, or more commonly,
rear projection configurations, often employing edge blending
to eliminate image-to-image gap. Direct-view LED displays
deliver very high brightness and are ideal for both indoor and
outdoor applications.

Videowalls can make a powerful visual statement in a corporate showroom
Videowall processing: Videowall displays sometimes
incorporate built-in video processing, with scaling for each
individual display unit to create an image across the array. The
processing in LCD displays may also include compensation
for the bezels, or mullions to make moving images appear
more natural.
An outboard, dedicated videowall processor or controller
provides greater flexibility for integration than the scalers built
into the displays. They can be used to connect many different
input sources and signal formats, often from a matrix switcher,
and can drive small or large videowalls. These processors have
the capacity and bandwidth to process a large number of input
sources simultaneously. They also optimize presentation in
individual windows. In fact, a videowall processor is absolutely
essential for any application that requires the flexibility to
window many images on multiple screens.
Videowall processors usually include control software that
allows a user to create custom window layouts. It enables
placing and sizing windows anywhere on the videowall and
then assigning input sources to them. These layouts can be
conveniently saved as presets, which the user can recall later
from the processor’s control software or an AV control system.
GE Global Innovation Center
What are the Essential Requirements of a Videowall?
Performance and image quality: Because videowalls
usually are large and highly visible, their images should
always appear bright and sharp. Content must be clear and
easy to decipher. The videowall processing must deliver
consistent performance regardless of signal load, maintain
the original frame rate of high-motion content, and preserve
essential image details. This includes text and graphics.
A videowall processor also needs to respond to user
commands without delay, even while handling a full load of
input and output signals.
Reliability: A videowall must deliver robust, continuous
reliability around the clock when installed in mission-critical
environments. Any maintenance, including parts replacement,
should not require disabling the entire system.
User accessibility: Videowalls are among the most complex
types of AV systems to set up and configure. The end user
will likely be a system operator without detailed knowledge
of the videowall configuration or functions. An intuitive user
interface should be provided, UK
such as a touchpanel
Highways with a
Agency – Godstone
simple button design that allows the user to easily select
presets for window layouts and switch input sources. ■
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Where are Videowalls Used?
Northern Command
Command and Control Center
Videowalls are a standard fixture in command and control rooms.
Videowalls were first developed in the mid-1980s and found
an early home in entertainment and retail environments.
The appearance of “a big stack of TVs” producing a single,
cohesive video image on CRT screens was a guaranteed
showstopper. During the 1990s, CRT-based displays were
joined by new imaging technologies. Videowall processors with
the capacity to process a variety of input and output signal
formats emerged. Together, they were ideal for presenting the
high-resolution computer graphic formats that were quickly
becoming commonplace, as well as high definition video as it
developed throughout the 1990s.
850 CRT Monitor Videowall – Seville EXPO, 1992
By then, videowalls were no longer used exclusively for “eye
candy.” They found their way into work environments, where
large, centrally located videowalls allowed an entire room of
personnel to share highly visual information. Today, videowalls
can simultaneously present 1080p and 4K video, computer
­4 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
graphic sources and IP streamed content, producing extremely
flexible information display systems.
Videowalls are now used in many different ways in public
and private sectors. For each of these spaces, there are a
vast array of environments, each with unique application
needs. The size, features, and performance of a videowall are
dictated by the environment, application, and intended viewing
experience for the audience.
Work Spaces
Command and Control
Videowalls have become a standard fixture in command and
control rooms on military bases and in government facilities
run by public safety and intelligence agencies. They are
used to provide a large, centralized display, allowing room
occupants to share content. These videowalls typically present
a wide variety of classified and unclassified sources to aid in
information monitoring and decision-making. Camera feeds,
satellite news broadcasts, PC signals, digital video, static
map files, and other sources are usually displayed on a 12- to
18-screen videowall, managed by a shift supervisor.
LCD flat-panel displays are the display device of choice in
command and control rooms, providing large screen sizes with
very narrow bezels. Command and control rooms are among
the most demanding environments for videowall displays and
processors, necessitating the highest quality upscaling and
downscaling of mission-critical, high-resolution source content
and continuous 24/7 reliability.
 Thales Catalyst Center
Simulation
A videowall is effective in providing an overview of all the visual elements
in a simulation event.
Situation Rooms
Situation rooms serve functions similar to command and
control rooms, though on a smaller scale. A small videowall,
six to eight displays, presents updates on emerging situations
sourced from satellite feeds, maps, and intelligence data. High-
ranking corporate management or government officials meet
with staff to monitor and manage a crisis. As with command
and control room applications, continuous 24/7 operation is a
critical feature for the videowall displays and processor.
Simulation
Government contractors that develop simulation systems
utilize videowalls in their facilities to show live or pre‑recorded
training sessions to an audience, which includes pilots and
other participants. With high-resolution video or full-motion
computer graphics sourced from real-time “image generators,”
these videowalls simultaneously display views from each
vehicle in an exercise. The videowall provides a cohesive
overview of participant interaction in the simulation.
Projectors with edge blending and 4K projectors are the typical
display devices of choice. They can present large images
with minimal or no seams. Videowall processors in these
applications must be capable of maintaining real-time motion
for all image sources and provide very high scaling quality to
ensure the videowall accurately portrays the visual information
from the session.
Security and Traffic Management
Security and traffic management centers may be found in
London Metropolitan Police Service
Security and Traffic Management
Videowalls are commonly used in surveillance and traffic management
centers to present camera feeds, maps, and other information.
corporate or university campuses, public safety venues, and
government agencies. Videowalls in these environments
display maps, data screens, and large numbers of video or
IP camera feeds. Attention can be drawn to a critical event
by magnifying an individual feed as a large, centrally located
image on the videowall. Supporting information can surround
it. The capability to simultaneously present large quantities of
video sources is a crucial feature for these systems.
Emergency Operations Centers
An emergency operations center - EOC is a facility often run
by a national or regional government, as well as public safety
organizations. Videowalls in an EOC allow staff to monitor
critical situations by displaying news broadcasts, graphical
maps, and computer sources that provide the location and
status of real-time regional or international events. Videowall
United Launch Alliance
Launch Operations Center
Videowalls deliver high-quality, mission-critical content to a team of
engineers relying on unwavering accuracy to make critical decisions
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Where are Videowalls Used?

CAT Telecom
Network Operations Center

Videowalls in Network Operation Centers provide a shared display for monitoring, control, and management of complex networking environments

processors used in EOCs must be capable of simultaneously

presenting a variety of source formats. These can include
standard video, high-resolution video, computer-generated
graphics, animation based on probable outcomes, and locally
stored images such as maps and building blueprints.

Network Operations Centers

Network operations centers - NOCs perform monitoring,
control, and management of complex networking
environments for telecommunication companies, business
organizations, and government agencies. NOC personnel are
responsible for monitoring one to many networks for certain
conditions that may require special attention to avoid service
degradation. NOC videowalls typically show details of alarms,
ongoing incidents, and general performance of the network.
They frequently include display systems with thin to no seams,
so that the detailed graphical system data is presented clearly
as it spans several displays.
Energy Exploration, Production, and Distribution
Private and public utility providers, refineries, and energy
exploration organizations employ videowalls for collaborative
­6 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Suzlon Energy Ltd.
Energy Exploration, Production, and Distribution
Videowalls aid in collaborative analysis of system data
analysis of system data by team members. Operators rely
on the videowall display for timely, accurate information
to manage, troubleshoot, and track facility, system, and
component performance. The videowalls typically display
specialized software applications for supervisory control and
data acquisition - SCADA systems, presenting data as well as
charts, plots, and other graphical information. For example,
a solar utility company can use the videowall to compare
sites for a new wind farm or discover turbine and windmill
 Trend Micro
Executive Briefing Center

Videowalls in corporate conference rooms enhance presentations that incorporate a mix of diverse sources.

placement to take best advantage of the topography and

prevailing breeze.

Corporate Conference Rooms

Videowalls are used in corporate conference rooms to
simultaneously display multiple sources of various formats on
a small number of displays. They support presentations and
training sessions that utilize computer and video sources.
Rear-projection systems are sometimes used, configured
with two to four projected images and edge-blended into a
seamless display.
Public Spaces
Educational Institutions
The collaborative, information-sharing nature of videowalls
make them a natural fit in educational institutions. Videowalls
can be found in classrooms and labs, allowing teachers
to display lesson materials that can include computer,
broadcast, and camera feeds on a common visual
workspace. Even outside the classroom, schools and
universities incorporate videowalls in cafeterias and student
union for entertainment and promoting campus activities
Bellevue University
Educational Institutions
The flexibility to display lesson materials and live content in any window
arrangement aids instruction and keeps students engaged
and events. They can also present news, weather, and other
information relevant to the area.
Corporate Lobbies
The corporate lobby of a technology-based firm is a popular
location for a videowall. The stylish video display becomes
a reflection of both the creativity and innovation that exists
beyond the waiting area. Corporate videos highlighting an
organization’s products or services, news, and personalized
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Where are Videowalls Used?
Emerson
Corporate Lobby
A corporate lobby is a popular location for a videowall as a stylish video display for welcoming visitors and delivering impact.
images welcoming specific customers are commonly seen on
the videowall. Flat-panel LCDs or compact modular tile arrays
are popular choices for videowall systems due to their bright
images and modern styling. Short viewing distances dictate
that the videowall processing delivers very high-quality images,
even when the source content is scaled above or below its
original resolution.
Cinema and Television
For decades, videowalls have been a mainstay in the television
and film industries. This includes their prominent use as local
and cable news set pieces that enable news anchors to
interact with field reporters or present informational graphics or
pre-recorded content. In films, a videowall can fulfill the needs
for a vast array of realistic to surreal situations. They can be in
the background of a scene or the central focus. For example,
a videowall can be behind dancers in a nightclub to add
atmosphere or it can be the key element in a command center
used by the military to decide how to combat a rampaging
monster or an alien attack. More recently, videowalls have
replaced physical sets. They provide a full-motion backdrop
rendered by powerful real-time graphic engines that eliminate
­8 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
the need for green screen effects. The videowall enables the
actors to see and realistically interact with their environment
and on-screen objects. They also streamline production and
post-production, facilitating more efficient and cost-effective
shooting and editing schedules.
Public Signage and Retail
Video-based public signage is used in retail environments
and other public venues, including train and subway stations,
airports, and other locations where content is visible to large
numbers of people. Content is often sourced from solid-state
video players, periodically updated across a media network,
or from devices that receive IP video streams. Flat-panel
LCD displays are popular for these videowalls. 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
 Big Al’s
Entertainment Center
A videowall in a restaurant or bar provides a convenient, single large display for simultaneous access to several channels of TV programming for
customers.
displays is more of a continuous projection display than a
tiled system. During services, videowalls typically present
camera feeds, video or graphic content supporting
the day’s teachings, hymn music and lyrics, video of
recent events or content streamed from remote worship
facilities. The services are similar to other large-scale
live events, in that production teams manage audio and
video engineering tasks. This includes videowall control.
Videowalls in houses of worship usually employ small
numbers of front projectors to achieve sufficient image
magnification. Videowall processors in these applications
must maintain high image quality when sources are scaled
for large screen sizes.
Sports Arenas
Videowalls are used in sports arenas in many different
ways throughout concourses and public areas. Historically,
they have been used in scoreboards to display large video
instant replay, as well as computer-generated animations
from the facility’s production booth. They are increasingly
used for digital signage and have become an integral
part of the facility experience. LCD panels are often used
for indoor displays, while direct-view LED systems are a
popular choice for outdoor venues due to their very high
brightness. The videowall processor must be capable of
delivering high integrity video images, and also respond
quickly to user control to keep up with the fast-changing
pace of the event.
Bars and Restaurants
In bars and restaurants, videowalls are often used to
display multiple high definition video sources. Large
numbers of satellite or cable television signals are used
as source inputs to the videowall. They are commonly
presented in a window layout with a single, large window
for the most prominent broadcast and several smaller
windows displaying other events. The bartender or
manager has the ability to switch the TV channel for any
window or recall a different window layout, often using a
touchpanel. Flat-panel LCD displays are frequently selected
for their capability to display bright images with high
contrast. The videowall processor must be cost-effective,
but also maintain real-time performance while displaying
multiple high-resolution video sources. ■
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Why a Videowall?
A videowall typically requires a significant investment and is
often the most expensive line item in a facility’s capital outlay
for an AV project. While the videowall functions as a single
display, it is always important to remember that it is a system.
Videowall processors are a significant component of the
videowall in terms of cost. They provide features common
to conventional scalers or video signal processors but have
greater input, output, and processing capability. The increased
number of inputs and outputs creates diverse requirements for
processing and image enhancements, providing greater value.
Because of the investment necessary to acquire and install a
videowall, an inexperienced designer may be tempted to seek
an alternative means of presenting large images or multiple
sources simultaneously. This could include increasing picture
size from a single projector, using conventional signal switching
and distribution in place of a videowall processor or installing
independent LCD panels on a wall instead of an integrated
videowall array. However, videowalls have several distinct
attributes and advantages. The image display capability and
flexibility of a videowall simply cannot be duplicated.
3840
1280 × 720 1280 × 720 1280 × 720
2160
3840 × 1440
Single Projector, 156 in × 102 in (4 m x 2.5 m)
5760 (1920x3)
1920 × 1080 1920 × 1080 1920 × 1080
3240
(1080 x 3)
5760 x 2160
3 x 3 Videowall, 156 in × 102 in (4 m x 2.5 m)
Figure 1-1. Videowall images of identical size, produced by a single
projector and a 3x3 array of flat-panel displays
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High Pixel Density
Pixel density is the number of pixels per unit area and is
determined by the resolution and screen size of a display.
When a single projected image is enlarged, pixel density
decreases. With a videowall, pixel density is constant
regardless of the array size because it is based on the
individual display device. Enlarging the array increases the
overall resolution of the videowall. A videowall usually delivers
much higher pixel density than a projected image of the
same size. An image can be upscaled for enlargement on a
videowall so that it fills up the array without compromising
picture quality. In contrast, significantly enlarging an image
from a projector reduces apparent brightness, resolution and
image quality.
Images that occupy large viewing areas need sufficient
resolution or pixel density in order to present clear and
legible content. Figure 1-1 illustrates two images of equal
size. One is from a single 4K projector fed by a multi-window
processor and the other a 3x3 videowall with 1080p panels
via a videowall processor. Both are presenting the same
content and layout for displaying multiple high-definition input
sources. The videowall presents the sources with twice as
many pixels when compared to the single projected image.
This increased resolution, resulting from a higher pixel density,
enables presentation of a row of three 1080p video sources
at full resolution, compared to just 1280x720 per image for
the single display.
Creativity with Display Shapes and Sizes
A videowall is created by “tiling” multiple display devices
together. By tiling displays, videowalls of any size and aspect
ratio can be constructed in very creative ways. Its canvas
layout never has to be limited to the standard aspect ratios
of single displays. Displays in a videowall can be oriented
horizontally, vertically, or even a combination of both, further
enhancing the creative possibilities.
Small Footprint
A front projector usually requires significant throw distance to
produce an image that fills up a substantial portion of a wall.
Practical throw distance may limit the number of allowable
participants in the room without blocking the projected image.
This is true even when special wide-angle lenses are used.
Videowalls comprised of flat panels, LED panels, or projection
cubes occupy a compact footprint due to each display’s fixed
depth. This depth remains constant no matter how large the
videowall canvas may be. A display array of any size shares
the same depth of a single display device. See Figure 1-2.
Consistent Brightness and Contrast
A bright, clear image is crucial for a video display. Whether
being viewed by a workforce interpreting on-screen information
or by customers casually glancing at digital signage in a retail
environment, images must be sufficiently bright so that content
is clear and easy to decipher.
Videowalls present viewers with consistently bright, inviting
images, regardless of size. While a single projector loses
brightness and contrast as image size increases, there is no
reduction in either as more displays are added to a videowall.
A videowall with 40 screens is just as bright as a videowall with
four screens, with consistent contrast delivering deep, rich
blacks even in the highest ambient light environments.
Figure 1-2. Flat-panel displays
produce a videowall with a
minimal footprint.
Show More Images on Fewer Displays
Most flat panels have internal scalers that allow a single
image to be stretched across a tiled array. This may be
suitable for applications that only use videowalls for displaying
a single, large image. For applications requiring simultaneous
presentation of multiple image sources, a simple solution is
to feed sources directly to individual displays in the videowall.
A switcher, distribution amplifier, or matrix switcher can
be used to provide some flexibility in distributing signals to
the displays.
However, with this solution, the number of sources that
can be presented is limited by the number of displays in
the videowall. For example, a 2x2 videowall with a matrix
switcher allows for simultaneous display of only four
image sources.
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Why a Videowall?
Figure 1-3. Sources of various formats and resolutions can be combined on a videowall.
A videowall processor is a far more versatile and powerful
solution. It provides the flexibility to present multiple sources
on fewer screens by allowing a user to display multiple source
windows on each display. Windows can always be sized and
positioned as necessary to accommodate the number of
images to be presented.
Mixed Source Resolutions and Formats
A videowall processor accepts and processes multiple signal
formats, such as computer graphics and high-resolution
video, so they can be displayed simultaneously. Each source
can be displayed on any part of the overall canvas, and many
different source types can be displayed within a single screen.
See Figure 1-3. The ability to “mix and match” signal formats
for simultaneous viewing can be a crucial factor for workflows
that rely on a variety of visual data sources. Also, a processor
provides the flexibility to determine how they should be
positioned or grouped together.
Simplified Display Setup
Videowall processors deliver a consistent output signal
format, eliminating the need to save unique input adjustments
such as size, position, or phase for different signal types
on each display. Managing multiple input formats across a
common output format simplifies integration. The displays
need only be configured for one resolution and refresh rate.
Driving the display at its native resolution maintains the best
­12 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Aircraft images from Analytical Graphics, Inc. - www.stk.com
quality image, avoiding inefficient or unnecessary scaling within
the display.
High-Quality Image Processing
Videowall processors typically provide better image scaling
quality than a display’s internal scaler. This can be clearly
visible when magnifying images for arrays larger than 2x2
or when high resolution images are downscaled. The latter
is particularly important when single-pixel details and lines
in graphs, data screens, and camera feeds need to be
discernible, despite the smaller image sizes.
Flexibility in Customizing Presentations
A videowall processor provides full flexibility to customize
presentations by adding, sizing, and placing windows. It also
facilitates assigning input sources to them. Any window can
be as small as desired or as large as the entire videowall.
Additionally, windows can be layered over each other.
Videowall processing automatically optimizes the input source
to the size of the selected window or windows. Many more
enhancements are available, including window borders and
captions, live backgrounds from a source input, and maps,
logos, or other graphics stored on the processor for use
as static backgrounds. A videowall processor lets the user
precisely define the look and style of the presentation and
allows window layouts to be created, saved, and recalled. ■
Reasons to Learn More

A videowall is ideal for applications requiring presentation
of a large image as well as multiple images from multiple
sources. They provide flexible image layout options while
maintaining the best possible picture quality. However,
engineering a videowall can be challenging. A wide range
of design factors must be carefully considered, many of
which are specific to videowall applications.
Videowalls – More than Just Displays
A common approach to videowall system design is to first
specify the display devices and then consider other system
components as supporting elements. Unfortunately,
this approach can overlook many critical aspects of a
successful videowall design. While display devices are
important, they only represent a single component of
the system.
• Videowall processing: Videowall processors are equally
as important as the displays. However, they vary greatly
in features, capabilities, and price. This guide’s detailed
information helps you decide on the best solution.
• Videowall processor architecture: Videowall processing is
available as a single, centralized unit or distributed among
modular units connected to sources and displays.
• Videowall processor platforms: Processors can be based
on computer technologies, standalone video processing
appliances, or a combination of the two.
• Videowall processing features: Scaling performance, window
customization options, output rotation, and edge blending
for projectors are among the many available features.

Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
This guide is a comprehensive resource for evaluating,
planning, and successfully deploying videowall system
designs. The sections that follow cover a broad range of
considerations, all of which are important to videowalls:
• Needs assessment: Any videowall design requires
clear knowledge of the application’s intended purpose.
Selecting the right products requires an understanding of
exactly how the videowall will be used.
• System control: The system must be easy to operate and
respond quickly to user commands without being slowed by
image processing tasks.
• Supporting system elements: Videowall systems may
include matrix switching, signal extension over fiber and
twisted pair, streaming content over IP, and more. ■

• Environmental factors and ergonomics: Videowall

designs should include considerations for human
interaction. It is important to account for lighting
conditions, seating positions, physical obstructions, and
other factors to ensure comfortable viewing and legibility
of content.

• Determining videowall shape, size, and pixel density:

The application, layout of the room, and the type and
arrangement of content on the videowall influences its
general size and shape. How close viewers will be to the
screens dictates pixel density.

• Videowall display selection: With knowledge of

the videowall size, shape, and pixel density, you can
select the display model and technology, finalizing the UK Highways Agency –
South Mimms
videowall configuration.
A successful videowall design accounts for environmental and human
factors as well as products and technologies.

www.extron.com 13
Needs Assessment
Significant Investments
Videowall systems are a significant investment; the cost
adds up quickly with displays, videowall processing, control,
distribution equipment, and sources. Requirements should
be given serious consideration. This is particularly true of the
processing system, which can apply unique, sophisticated
technology to enable custom multi-window presentations.
For many individuals, videowalls are unfamiliar technology
and it can be very easy to become preoccupied with new
technology and flashy capabilities. They may dismiss
videowalls altogether and focus on simpler, less expensive
system designs. The capital investment for AV systems nearly
always faces heavy scrutiny, so it is important to identify and
validate the videowall system requirements for every project.
The Common Law of Business, credited to the Victorian
era poet, art, and social critic John Ruskin, highlights an
important point to remember when selecting videowall
system elements. It underscores the value of conducting a
thorough needs assessment when evaluating any significant
technology investment:
“It’s unwise to pay too much, but it’s worse to pay too little. When
you pay too much, you lose a little money — that is all. When you
pay too little, you sometimes lose everything because the thing
you bought was incapable of doing the thing it was bought to do.
The common law of business balance prohibits paying a little
and getting a lot — it can’t be done. If you deal with the lowest
bidder, it is well to add something for the risk you run, and if
you do that, you will have enough to pay for something better.”
A thorough needs assessment helps clarify core requirements
and identifies inadequate or non-essential technology. It can
help you avoid paying too little and ending up with a system
that is not as effective as intended.
Start with the Basics
When establishing requirements for a videowall with an end
user, begin with the fundamental questions:
• What is the name and location of the site?
• What type of environment is this site?
• What is the overall purpose of the videowall?
• What are the intended applications for the videowall within
this environment?
­14 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
As mentioned earlier, different applications and
environments have different requirements for videowall
capabilities and performance.
Duty Cycle
Inquire about the intended operational schedule for the
videowall system. Will it be used for short duration events
and periodic presentations, a 40-hour weekly schedule, or a
24/7 operating cycle? This helps define the requirements for
system reliability and maintenance.
Scale and Scope
Once the intended use and operating schedule have
been established, more technical requirements can be
determined by asking the following questions:
• What type of visual information will be presented on the
displays? Video productions, live news broadcasts, data
screens, complex data visualizations, videoconferencing,
security camera feeds, or collaboration data from other
enterprise operations or agencies?
• How much information will be presented? Are
there tens or hundreds of video, data, and graphic
information sources?
• Will there be HD, 4K, or even higher resolution source
devices with HDCP-encrypted outputs, such as Blu-ray
Disc players and digital cable or satellite receivers?
• How should the information be presented? Will only one
or a few images be presented at a time, or must the
system be capable of presenting many sources at the
same time and in a variety of combinations?
• How much display area is available or envisioned to be
used for the videowall?
• What type of display technology may be used in this
application – front projection, rear projection, LCD panels,
LED, or another technology? The selection of display
technology can be driven by the physical space available,
the type of information to be displayed, and the sizes at
which images must be presented.
• How much space is available in front or at the rear of the
display for access and maintenance?
• Will the sources be local to the videowall processor, in a
centralized rack, or situated throughout the site? Are there
any sources to be integrated from outside the facility?
• Is there an equipment closet or designated location for the
videowall processor, sources, and other AV equipment, and
what are the anticipated space limitations for installing them?
• What type of user control interface will be required for
operating the videowall? Is the operator going to be a trained
AV technician or general staff member?
The quantity and layout of source windows will vary depending on the application and environment.
• If the installation is in a government agency or a company
contracted with the government, will secure content be
presented on the videowall?
• Will copyrighted material be presented in a public area?
Answers to these questions help you determine the most basic
system requirements. However, many more environmental
and operational considerations can affect the selection of
technologies for a videowall. ■
www.extron.com 15
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors

The ability to present clear, high-quality imagery from multiple

sources and at large sizes makes videowalls valuable for
maintaining situational awareness. Videowalls enable mission-
critical information to be presented in working environments,
such as a control center. In public spaces, videowalls can
deliver visual impact and effective messaging for entertainment
and promotional purposes. A videowall should be properly
integrated into its physical environment and be engineered for
efficient, ergonomic use.

To properly determine which display technology and
specifications are best for a given installation, physical and
operational dynamics must be considered as part of a
complete AV system design. Ignoring the environmental and
operational requirements can lead to less-than-optimal results
for a high-value videowall, in what could otherwise be an
outstanding system design.
Many environmental and human factors, as well as ergonomic
engineering essentials, seem obvious when considered after
the fact. Unfortunately, AV designers are often not involved
early enough in a project’s life cycle to prevent all possible
shortcomings regarding these important details. Preparation
of two-dimensional plans and section drawings are essential.
They allow review of the physical considerations for the
environment. Visualizations in 3D, such as in Figure 2-1, can
also be valuable for pointing out environmental concerns to
end users and project stakeholders with limited experience in
videowall applications.
An effectively designed videowall system, with proper
consideration for environmental and human factors, ensures
viewing comfort and optimal accessibility for everyone in
Videowall Videowall
Figure 2-1. A 3D perspective rendering can be valuable when considering
environmental and human factors for a videowall.
the room. This, in turn, helps to maximize the value and
effectiveness of the videowall in conveying visual information.
A great deal of government, academic, and commercial
research has been conducted in the area of human factors
and ergonomic design for control centers. The ISO has
published standard 11064-1:2000 for the ergonomic design of
control centers, and the US military has established standards
for human engineering that address the use of visual displays.
The human factors and environmental considerations
presented here are specific to videowalls for control rooms.
However, the same concepts can be applied to a wide variety
of other environments.
Viewing Locations
It is essential that all the intended users can easily view the
videowall. When evaluating horizontal and vertical viewing
angles, ask the following questions:
• Where are the primary viewers situated relative to the
videowall?

• Are there any secondary viewing locations for individuals not

directly engaged with the display? Examples of secondary
Viewer Viewer
viewing locations include viewing galleries or management
offices.

• Are there any physical barriers that could obstruct the

videowall for some users?

Wide viewing angles result in lower Curving displays improves the

display brightness. viewing angle and brightness. In large rooms, such as a control center, viewing locations vary
greatly. It is important to evaluate viewing angles in both the
Figure 2-2. Adding curvature to the videowall can help optimize viewing
angles. vertical and horizontal planes. If physical barriers are identified,
­16 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
 S y m bol
R e c o g n itio n

5º - 30º 5º - 30º
0º

Standard
Line of Sight

50º

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pe
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Figure 2-3. Field of vision and recommended head tilt and eye rotation angles
Up
pe
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rV
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is u
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additional displays may be required to expand the25º

videowall.
Vi

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of

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on
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axi be
it

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Minimum 2H
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other cases, adding curvature to the Line
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viewing coverage, as illustrated in Figure 1H
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Ma ht Sit
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Ey xim
Eye and Head Tilt e R um 0º
Lim

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In control rooms, operators typically managetio tasks using one of Sight Sitting
it of

n 30º Maximum Eye

or more local displays while monitoring content 30º
ld

on a videowall Rotation
Visu

Fie

positioned beyond their workstation. Eye and head tilt between

al F

al
su

Figure 2-4. Eye and head tilt from workstation to display

the workstation and the videowall should be compared against
ield

Vi
er

recommended human engineering standards for

o visual field
w

L
of view, eye rotation, and head
70ºtilt. Proper consideration for
eye and head tilt ensures comfortable viewing for users as consideration in this situation, but the design must offer
they alternate between their workstation displays and the comfortable viewing from seated or standing positions.
videowall. This analysis should always be performed for control
rooms, whether information is to be presented on a videowall, Display Size and Legibility
individual wall-mounted displays, or a large screen. See Viewing distance drives the minimum requirements for display
Figures 2-3 and 2-4. dimensions and the size of individual image windows. It is
also critical when considering the display resolution and pixel
A similar field of vision, eye rotation, and head tilt analysis density of information presented on the displays, as well as the
should be applied when a videowall is designed into a public sizes of characters and symbols. Display size and legibility of
or entertainment venue. Use of personal displays is not a content are examined further in later sections of this guide.
www.extron.com 17
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors
The Physiology of Color Vision
When preparing content to be presented on a videowall, it is
important to have a basic understanding of human vision and
the physiology of color. Proper use of color can enhance a
viewer’s ability to interpret data, while improper use of color
can result in eye strain. Text, data, or visual symbols should
appear over a background using a complementary color. See
Figure 2-5.
Display Brightness
Images produced by videowalls must be sufficiently bright
so that they can be clearly visible. Today, many work areas
with videowalls employ lighting designs that produce an
abundance of ambient light and may include outdoor windows
that contribute natural light. Fortunately, advancements in
lamps and LED illumination sources have made LCD panels,
projection cubes, and high brightness projectors suitable for
use in bright ambient-light environments. Direct-view LED
panels are also capable of displaying extremely bright images,
easily visible in brightly-lit environments, including outdoors.
Display technologies continue to evolve, offering improvements
in brightness, resolution, contrast, form factor, power
Color Wheel Complementary Colors
Complementary
Colors
Relaxed Strained
Figure 2-5. The human physiology of color vision requires careful
selection of color combinations presented on displays.
­18 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
consumption, and cost efficiency. Whatever display
technology is under consideration, it is always important to
use professional methods for defining display brightness
requirements, including under ambient light conditions.
Ambient lighting conditions are determined in terms of
illuminance, which is a measurement of all light sources
illuminating a point on a surface. Illuminance is measured
in lux - lx, equivalent to lumens per square meter - lm/m2.
Wherever possible, determine the ambient lighting for a
site by referring to the facility’s lighting design specifications
or personally taking measurements once the lighting has
been integrated. Table 2-1 lists typical illuminances for
various environments.
Illuminance calculations are regularly prepared when
planning front projection systems. The illuminance
produced by a projector can be calculated by dividing the
projector’s ANSI lumens output by the screen’s surface
area in square meters. The result can then be compared
with the ambient light levels in the room. A projector’s light
output in ANSI lumens is usually listed under “Brightness” in
projector specifications.
Luminous Flux Illuminance
Light Power Light incident on a surface area
Lumens (lm) Lux (lx) = lm/m2
Front
Projection
Luminance
Light per unit area emitted in a specific direction
Nits - Cd/m2
Flat Panel or
Rear Projection
Figure 2-6. Illuminance and luminance
Flat panels, LED panels, and projection cubes also identify
luminance values as “Brightness” in their specifications.
However, they are quantified as nits or candelas per square
meter - cd/m . Luminance describes the amount of light
2
specifications usually identify the horizontal and vertical viewing
angles at which the luminance will be one half or a lower
percentage relative to the on-axis value.

leaving a surface in a specific direction. See Figure 2-6.
In terms of measurement, one cd/m is the equivalent of
2
one lux at a defined direction. Specifications of brightness
or luminance for flat panels or projection cubes identify
values that are on-axis or directly perpendicular to the
screen. Luminance values between 300 and 1,000 nits
provide adequate brightness in control room as well as
office environments.
Rear projection screens with high gain typically yield lower
luminance values at off-axis viewing angles. This reduction in
brightness helps to illustrate the significance of the direction
of light for luminance. For large-screen rear projection, system
designs must include proper specifications for projector
ANSI lumens, screen size, and screen gain to ensure
sufficient luminance within the ambient lighting conditions of
the environment.

Projection cubes that have been designed with diagonal
screen sizes beyond 80 inches (200 cm), or those that
have been engineered to offer extended lamp life may have
specified luminance values below 300 nits. Use of these
displays requires greater attention to ambient light conditions
and lighting designs. Table 2-2 lists typical luminance ranges
for various display types. On-axis luminance is determined
by measuring or calculating the illuminance – projector ANSI
lumens divided by screen area, and then multiplying this
result by the gain of the projection screen. Projection cube
Some display manufacturers continue to list illuminance and
luminance specifications or calculations based on English
standard units using square feet rather than square meters.
Conversion factors from lux and nits to foot-candles and foot-
lamberts are listed in Table 2-3.
Display Contrast
In addition to brightness, videowall displays must offer
sufficient contrast, so viewers can easily distinguish text, data,
symbols, and visual details in video or graphic images. A

ENVIRONMENT TYPICAL ILLUMINANCE DISPLAY TYPICAL LUMINANCE

Bright sunlight 110,000 lux

LED displays 2000 - 14,000 nits
Shaded area on a bright day 25,000 lux

Task lighting 1,500 lux Rear projection cubes 300 - 1,000 nits

Office lighting 500 - 750 lux

LCD screen 450 - 700 nits
Control room 300 - 750 lux

Theaters 150 lux Laptop screen 150 - 250 nits

Parking lot lighting 10 lux

Cinema screen 40 - 60 nits
Moonlight 0.1 lux

Table 2-1. Typical illuminance levels in various environments Table 2-2. Typical luminance ranges for various display types

MEASUREMENT METRIC MEASUREMENT ENGLISH STANDARD MEASUREMENT METRIC TO ENGLISH ENGLISH TO METRIC
Illuminance Lux Foot-candle (ft-c) Lux x 10.764 ft-c / 10.764

Luminance Nit or candela/m2 Foot-lambert (ft-L) Nit x 3.426 ft-l / 3.426

Table 2-3. Conversion factors for brightness values derived from metric and English standard measurements

www.extron.com 19
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors
display’s contrast ratio describes the dynamic range it offers
for presenting imagery, from deep blacks to peak whites.
Contrast ratio is a measure of the ratio between the brightest
and the darkest luminance values produced by the display.
Higher contrast ratios are commonly associated with greater
subjective picture quality.
High brightness contributes to a higher contrast ratio by
increasing the white measurement. However, producing very
high contrast ratios requires even greater attention to reducing
dark values. For product specifications, contrast ratio is based
on measurements taken in a completely dark room. Unless
the display is to be used in a similarly darkened environment,
contrast ratio product specifications should not be factored
too heavily when comparing products. The standard method
for determining contrast ratio is illustrated in Figure 2-7.
Many direct-view flat panels include high contrast surfaces to
disperse incident light and reduce reflections on the screen.
Content frequently appears better when formatted with bright
or white backgrounds and dark characters or symbols. Both
types of formatting work well for projection cubes.
Front and rear-projection screens include various coatings or
tinting to diffuse incident light and improve contrast. In control
rooms with projection systems, contrast is frequently optimized
by formatting data and graphic content with dark backgrounds
and bright characters or symbols and maintaining low ambient
light conditions.
Contrast Ratio
Measured luminance ratio of full white vs. black
Contrast Ratio = Bright - Dark (Nits)
Dark (Nits)
Display
Contrast Ratio
Example: 100:1
Figure 2-7. Display contrast ratio
­20 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
In 2011, InfoComm International published the ANSI/
INFOCOMM 3M-2011 Projected Image System
Contrast Ratio standard for contrast ratios of projected
images for different viewing applications. The following
recommendations were established: a minimum contrast
ratio of 7:1 for images produced purely for informational
purposes, at least 15:1 for basic decision-making, 50:1
for critical decision-making, and 80:1 for presentation of
full-motion video content.
The introduction of the 15:1 ratio for basic decision-
making resulted in notable industry feedback, considering
that a contrast ratio of 10:1 had been applied as a rule
of thumb by industry professionals for many years.
Nevertheless, the economic and environmental factors
encountered on every project produces challenges that
may or may not support attaining these standards.
Brightness and contrast can be objectively determined
with light meters, but in the end, customer satisfaction
can be purely subjective. A best practice for visually
evaluating a display’s brightness and contrast is to go
to the actual facility and view content similar to the type
and quality to be shown. If this is not possible, view the
content under comparable environmental conditions.
Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting conditions impact the resulting contrast
or how images appear under actual lighting conditions.
Excessive lighting in a room conflicts with the displays,
reducing contrast and making the image appear “washed
out” and difficult to view.
The following best practices address the impact of lighting
on AV systems in control centers:
• Control ambient brightness throughout the room,
minimizing it wherever not essential to human activity.
• Use directional overhead spotlights where possible to
keep lighting away from the videowall.
• Incorporate individualized task lighting for workstations,
rather than relying on lighting fixtures which apply broad
coverage throughout a room.
Figure 2-8. Walls surrounding a videowall should not distract viewers
from the display system, clocks, or other status indicators.
The following should be avoided:
• Placement of ceiling lights in close proximity to displays; light
may spill onto the screen surfaces.
• Untreated windows directly facing a videowall display,
particularly those with a southerly exposure.
Note: In northern latitudes, there have been instances of poor
planning for ambient lighting conditions. Specifically, these
have been for corporate lobby videowall installations that
face banks of windows with a southerly exposure. During
afternoon hours in winter months, light from the sun can fall
directly onto the videowall displays, significantly reducing the
effective contrast.
Wall and Room Treatments
Walls surrounding a videowall should be visually neutral
to avoid distracting from the information presented on the
displays. See Figure 2-8 as an example. Wall surfaces should
have matte finishes and be pattern-free, without windows,
open doorways, and other visual distractions whenever
possible. Similarly, ceilings, floors, and facing walls should
have matte or non-reflective finishes. Walls should be void
of windows and other reflective surfaces, which can result in
light falling onto the videowall displays. Wherever windows
cannot be avoided, shades and tinting can be used to
reduce the impact of natural light. Acoustic treatments may
also be required to control sonic reflections, ensuring a quiet
environment for subdued conversations.
Clocks and Status Indicators
Control rooms, sales or trading floors, and other working
environments with videowalls often use world time-zone
Figure 2-9. Furniture and consoles may be customized for specific team
workflow or operational requirements.
clocks or system status indicators, such as those which
display security conditions. See Figure 2-8. This information
may be presented on the videowall, specialized fixtures, or
auxiliary displays.
Furniture and Personal Environment Management
Furniture and consoles used in command and control
centers are available in standard designs that support many
different workflows. They can be customized, facilitating
specific working conditions and environments. See Figure
2-9. Their design may include motorized height settings,
highly adjustable seats, task lighting, localized white noise,
or local airflow and temperature control for users working in
24/7 operations.
Entry Management and Security
Control rooms and facilities with high-impact displays may
have controlled visibility or access for security reasons or to
enhance the visitor experience. For example, an executive
presentation room may double as a viewing gallery, with
motorized shades or controllable privacy glass to expose
an adjoining control room. When used for customer
demonstrations or promotional applications, a control room
may incorporate a special entryway that includes lighting and
AV effects to help shape the visitors’ state-of-mind before
they enter the space. This approach is similar to the use of
pre-shows in theme park attractions.
Planning Ahead for Effective Videowalls
All of these human factors and environmental considerations
can have a significant impact on the effectiveness of
a videowall display system. The earlier an AV designer
participates in the facility design, the greater the likelihood
these elements are successfully addressed. ■
www.extron.com 21
Choosing the Right Videowall Shape and Size
Deciding how large a videowall should be is more than a
matter of determining how many display devices are required
to fill the designated space. The manner in which the videowall
will be used, the types and quantity of information to be
presented, and the size and shape of the room should be
considered before selecting the display type and quantity. A
videowall in a public setting for digital signage has far different
physical requirements than a videowall in a command and
control center.
Determining the Shape or Aspect Ratio
When specifying a videowall system, a design engineer has the
flexibility to define a specific layout for the displays. Videowalls
of two screens high by four screens wide, three screens high
by four screens wide, or four screens high by four screens
wide are common. However, each of these arrangements
results in a different overall aspect ratio. The videowall is
Original source aspect ratios maintained
Original source aspect ratios not maintained – results in image distortion
Figure 2-10. Videowall images may be distorted if content is not presented in its native aspect ratio.
­22 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
defined by the layout of the screens as well as the aspect ratio
of the individual display devices. They may also have creative
shapes with no defined aspect ratio.
What is the “best” shape or aspect ratio for a videowall? If the
objective is to make the videowall as large as possible, then
its shape is driven by the layout of the room. A shallow, wide
room with a low ceiling necessitates a short, wide videowall.
Other room characteristics may result in a videowall shape
closer to a square. But room layout is not the only important
factor when determining the height and width of a videowall.
The size and aspect ratio of the source content and their
intended arrangements on the videowall also influence its
shape and design.
A good first step is to determine the types and resolutions of
the input sources to the videowall, and how many of them
must be displayed together. Discussing this with the end user
and deciding together the number of source windows and
how they should appear on the videowall helps determine the
best overall screen arrangement.
It is beneficial to sketch three or four storyboards with various
window layouts. Be sure to maintain each source’s original
aspect ratio when designing these layouts. While many
videowall processors allow images to be stretched, zoomed,
or cropped to fill a window of any shape, the end user may
find it distracting if content is not represented in its native
aspect ratio. See Figure 2-10.
When creating sample window layouts, it is important to
consider which sources should be shown at native resolution,
which may be downscaled or reduced in size, and what
content needs to be upscaled or enlarged. Having an idea
of scaling requirements for the source content helps you
determine relative sizes for the source windows on the
videowall. The nature of the source content dictates how
legible it will be when scaled. High-resolution imagery may
be reasonably legible when downscaled. Content can often
be displayed in small windows as “thumbnails” to save
space while being adequately discernible. These can then be
upscaled or enlarged upon user control for closer examination.
While videowall processors allow images or graphics to be
reduced in size, text or symbols may not remain legible if
downscaled or even when shown at native resolution. In this
case, upscaling may be necessary. This may require the use of
larger window sizes that may require enlarging the videowall.
Properly sizing fonts for videowalls is discussed later in detail.
Once you are confident that your sample window layouts
meet end user expectations, you can be sure that you have
a good idea of the overall shape for the videowall. This is also
determined by the layout of the room and the source content
to be presented. You should estimate the physical and pixel
dimensions for the videowall. Additional considerations,
including pixel density and individual display or projected
image size, help you finalize the actual dimensions and
configuration of the videowall.
Pixel Density
In addition to brightness and contrast, pixel resolution is an
important contributing factor to image quality. Viewers tend to
perceive images with good resolution as sharp, detailed, and
above all, free of visible artifacts. The ability to see pixels on-
screen is dependent on the viewing distance from the display,
the native resolution of the display, and the content being
presented, among other factors. Pixel structure is more likely
to be noticeable in content with text, shapes, lines, and fine
graphic details than in full-motion video.
The resolution of a videowall can be defined by the total
number of horizontal and vertical pixels in the display array or
canvas. It can also be described by the pixel density, or the
number of pixels per unit area. Pixel density is determined by
the individual display unit, in terms of its native resolution as
well as screen dimensions. Pixel density remains constant,
regardless of the size or layout of the videowall.
The ideal pixel density for a videowall is based on the distance
for viewers closest to the screens, so they do not see visible
pixel structure. A unit of angular measurement, known as
an “arc minute,” is used to describe how much of a viewer’s
vision is occupied by an object. An arc minute is equal to
1/60th of a degree, with 360° comprising a complete circle.
The theoretical limit of human visual acuity, or the ability to
discriminate an individual object or between objects in space,
is approximately one arc minute or 0.0167°. For video, this
means that below this limit, a person should not be able to
resolve individual pixels. See Figure 2-11.
1 arc minute
Pixel Pitch
Individual
Pixels
Visible
1 arc minute
Pixel Pitch
No Pixels
Visible
Figure 2-11. Pixel structure will not be noticed if the pixel pitch, or
spacing between pixels, forms an angle less than one arc minute in a
person’s viewing field.
www.extron.com 23
Choosing the Right Videowall Shape and Size
How to Calculate Pixel Density
Calculating Pixel Density Based on Viewing Distance
The minimum pixel density for a videowall, based on the viewing
distance and the visual acuity limit of 1 arc minute, can easily be
calculated. All that is needed is a tape measure and a scientific
calculator, or a mobile device running a scientific calculator app.
Ensure the calculator is set to degrees, rather than radians.
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 calculate pixel pitch, or the physical
separation between two pixels.
Pixel Pitch = Viewing Distance x tan (1 arc minute /
60 arc minutes per degree)
= Viewing Distance x tan (0.0167°) =
Viewing Distance x 0.000291
where the viewing distance and pixel pitch are specified in inches.
Pixel density, in PPI or pixels per inch, is then simply the inverse of
pixel pitch:
The sidebar shown above provides detailed information on
calculating pixel density. At a close viewing distance of 10 feet
(3 m), the pixel density would need to be at least 28 PPI, or
pixels per inch, to avoid visible pixel structure. As points of
comparison, a 50" (107-cm) UHD LCD display has a pixel
density of 88 PPI, while a 60" (152-cm) WXGA LCD display
has a pixel density of 26 PPI. If the end user demands that
multiple high-resolution sources be displayed pixel-for-pixel,
then it may be necessary to increase the pixel density beyond
the minimum. Pixel density is an important consideration when
projecting large images. Table 2-4 lists some recommended
minimum pixel densities at various viewing distances.
VIEWING DISTANCE MINIMUM PIXEL DENSITY
5 ft (1.5 m) 57 PPI - pixels per inch
10 ft (3 m) 28 PPI
15 ft (4.5 m) 19 PPI
20 ft (6 m) 14 PPI
Table 2-4. Recommended display pixel density based on the closest
viewing distance
­24 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Pixel Density (PPI) = 1 / Pixel Pitch (in)
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
Calculating Pixel Density for a Display
Pixel density can also easily be calculated for a display, using the
equation for the Pythagorean theorem:
Diagonal Pixels = √Horizontal Pixels2 + Vertical Pixels2
Then, dividing the diagonal pixel resolution by the diagonal screen
dimension gives you pixel density.
Pixel Density (PPI) = Diagonal Pixels / Diagonal Screen Dimension (in)
Example: For a 52 inch (132 cm) diagonal 1080p LCD panel,
Diagonal Pixels = √19202 + 10802 = √4,852,800 = 2203
Pixel Density = 2203 / 52 inches = 42 PPI
Summary
To help determine the best physical shape and size for a
videowall, keep the following points in mind:
• The general shape and size of a videowall is frequently
determined by the layout of the room and available wall
space.
• Drafting window layouts helps both you and the end user
better define the shape and dimensions of the videowall. Be
sure to account for the following:
- Types of input sources
- Aspect ratios and native resolutions of the sources
- Legibility of content, particularly text and symbols, and the
possible need to enlarge them
- Maximum number of sources to be displayed
simultaneously
• Ensure the display devices you select for the videowall have
sufficiently high pixel density, so the closest viewer does not
see pixel structure.
Together with these suggested guidelines, you ensure that the
final videowall design and configuration satisfies eye and head
tilt considerations, as discussed previously in this guide. ■
Choosing the Right Display Size and Resolution

The ideal dimensions and resolution of an individual display and System B is an array of eight 46" (117 cm) 1080p LCD
unit depend on the required pixel density, the desired displays. While the resulting videowalls are close in physical
shape and size of the videowall, and budget. The choice size, there are considerable differences between the two.
of display technology dictates the available options for System A can be less expensive than System B, despite the
screen dimensions and resolutions. Display technologies for larger, more expensive 70” displays. System A requires only
videowalls are discussed later in further detail. three displays, while System B requires eight. In addition, the
videowall processor for System A only requires three outputs,
For a given display technology, larger displays are typically and System B requires a larger videowall processor with at
more expensive than smaller models. However, it may actually least eight outputs.
cost less to fulfill a desired videowall size with fewer large,
more expensive displays than a greater quantity of small, less While System A is more cost-effective than System B, the
expensive displays. Fewer displays translate to less expensive overall pixel density of System B is greater than that of
videowall processing since they require fewer outputs. On System A. System A comprises 5760x1080 pixels with a pixel
the other hand, smaller displays may deliver higher pixel density of 31 PPI. System B comprises 7680x2160 pixels
density for the videowall. Therefore, a videowall design and 48 PPI pixel density. Therefore, System B is capable of
focusing solely on the economics of displays may ignore pixel displaying a higher number of sources at native resolution.
density considerations. Depending on the required pixel density, the desired window
layouts, and the resolutions of the input sources, System B
Figure 2-12 illustrates two videowalls of comparable size. may be a more suitable solution than System A despite the
System A comprises three 70" (178 cm) 1080p LCD displays higher price. ■

System A
2 ft 10 in (.87 m) - 1080 pixels

15 ft 3 in (4.7 m) - 5760 pixels (1920×3)

70 inch diagonal 70 inch diagonal 70 inch diagonal

System B
13 ft 5 in (4.1 m) - 7680 pixels (1920×4)
3 ft 10 in (1.2 m) - 2160 pixels

46 inch 46 inch 46 inch 46 inch

diagonal diagonal diagonal diagonal
(1080×2)

46 inch 46 inch 46 inch 46 inch

diagonal diagonal diagonal diagonal

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.

www.extron.com 25
Font Size and Legibility
Legibility is very important for any videowall application with
sources that include alphanumeric text. Viewers should be
able to easily read text at all intended viewing distances
without eyestrain. Delivering adequately sized text can be
accomplished by scaling up or enlarging the source to make
fonts legible. Alternatively, content can be rendered with text at
appropriate font sizes.
When considering legibility, it is important to take into account
the distance between the farthest viewer and the videowall.
Use the “worst case” scenario to determine how large source
windows should be or what font size should be specified when
creating content. Additional display area may be required
to provide adequate space for enlarged windows, which
translates to larger displays or extra screens for more rows
or columns.
At a minimum, text on a videowall should occupy 10 vertical
arc minutes of the viewer’s vision to be legible. However, this
size may still appear to be too small for many viewers, and
eyestrain is likely over long periods of time. A safer rule of
thumb is for any displayed text to occupy at least 15 to 20 arc
minutes of the furthest viewer’s vision.
Viewing Distance 30 ft (9 m)
15 ft (4.5 m)
10 arc minutes
Text height
1 in (25 mm)
19 arc minutes
Font size is acceptable for nearest viewer, but too small for
extended viewing by furthest viewer
Viewing Distance 30 ft (9 m)
15 ft (4.5 m)
19 arc minutes
Text height
2 in (50 mm)
38 arc minutes
Font size acceptable for nearest viewer and furthest viewer
Figure 2-13. Font size vs. viewing distance
­26 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
The example in Figure 2-13 illustrates an environment where
the nearest viewer is 15' (4.5 m) from a videowall, and the
furthest viewer is 30' (9 m) from the screens. The text is 1"
(25 mm) high, which occupies 19 arc minutes of the nearest
viewer’s vision. While this is acceptable, text read by a viewer
30' from the videowall only occupies 10 arc minutes, which
is not acceptable for extended viewing. The sidebar provides
more details on calculating arc minutes based on the text size
and viewing distance.
To improve legibility for the furthest viewer, text should be
rendered at a larger size or source window sizes should
be expanded. Figure 2-13 demonstrates that doubling
the text height from 1 to 2 inches (25 to 50 mm) improves
legibility, since the text now occupies 19 arc minutes for the
furthest viewer.
From this illustration, it can be generalized that providing
a text height of 1" (25 mm) for every 15' (4.5 m) of the
maximum viewing distance ensures legibility for the viewer.
This is a good rule of thumb to follow when designing
videowalls, especially in environments where critical
information is displayed.
How to Calculate Arc Minutes
It is easy to calculate the number of arc minutes that text and
characters occupy within a person’s viewing field. All you need
is a tape measure and a scientific calculator. Scientific calculator
apps are available for mobile devices. Make sure the calculator is
set to degrees, not radians.
Begin by measuring, or estimating, the distance from the
videowall to the furthest viewing location in the room, as well as
the height of the text on-screen. Then, this basic trigonometric
formula can be used to calculate arc minutes:
Arc Minutes = 60 x arctan (Text Height / Viewing Distance)
where arctan is the arctangent, or inverse tangent, and 60
denotes the number of arc minutes per degree.
Example: For text 1 inch (25 mm) tall, viewed from 15 feet (4.5 m)
or 180 inches,
Arc Minutes = 60 x arctan (1 in/180 in) = 60 x arctan (0.0056)
= 60 x 0.3183 = 19
If your calculator does not have an arctangent button, press the
“inverse” button and then “tangent.”
Pixel Density and Font Size
The pixel density of a display device is another factor that
impacts font size. Text rendered at a specific font size
appears smaller on a high-resolution display than on a lower
resolution display of the same size. This is illustrated in Figure
2-14 for two 55” (140 cm) LCD panels, one at 3840x2160
and the other at 1920x1080.
It should be noted that if a source is intended to be
magnified across multiple videowall screens, then the font
size can be reduced accordingly. For an image spread over
a 2x2 array of four screens, for example, the font selected
can be one-fourth the size appropriate for viewing on a
single screen. This can similarly be applied when a source
window is to be enlarged.

It is also important to note that when referring to font size, Summary

or point size, a point is not equal to a pixel. In other words, To ensure that alphanumeric text presented on a videowall
12-point font is not 12 pixels high, but rather is approximately is legible for all viewers, use the following suggested rules
16 pixels high. The exact relationship between points and of thumb:
pixels varies by font. As a general rule of thumb, the pixel
height of a font is 30% to 35% larger than its point size. • Apply a minimum text height of 1 inch (25 mm) on the
screen for every 15 feet (4.5 m) of distance between the
Example: A videowall array comprised of 55" (140 cm) videowall and the furthest viewing position in the room.
1920x1080 LCD panels is installed in a control room where
the distance to the farthest viewer is 30' (9 m). The videowall • When rendering content for a videowall, the pixel height of
has a pixel density of 40 PPI. For a 30' viewing distance, a font is 30 to 35 percent larger than its point size. ■
text on the screen should be at least 2" or 80 pixels high.
Therefore, when creating content in Microsoft PowerPoint®
or any other application, a font size of about 56 points should
be applied.

3840 pixels 1920 pixels

48 in (121.9 cm) 48 in (121.9 cm)
27 in (68.6 cm)

27 in (68.6 cm)
2160 pixels

1080 pixels

55 in (139.7 cm) 55 in (139.7 cm)

Letter 100 pixels tall Letter 100 pixels tall

1.25 in (32 mm) 2.5 in (65 mm)

Pixel Density: Pixel Density:

80 pixels per inch 40 pixels per inch

Figure 2-14. Text at a specific font size will appear smaller on a higher resolution display.

www.extron.com 27
Display Devices
With the size, shape, and minimum pixel density of the
videowall in mind, the system designer can now consider
the necessary display technology and model for the
videowall. Several display technologies are available when
specifying a videowall design, each with its distinct benefits
and drawbacks. The ideal choice is based on several
factors, including the following:
• Specific display technology - The end user may already
have a particular display type in mind for the videowall,
such as LCD flat panels.
• Screen size, shape, and resolution - Specific screen
dimensions and resolutions vary according to the
display technology. Considerably large screen sizes may
necessitate the use of front or rear projectors.
• Picture adjustments - Displays for videowalls feature a
range of brightness and color adjustments, controls, and
illumination systems that allow the displays to maintain
alignment with one another over time.
32 in (81 cm) LCD Display with
Standard Bezel
60 in (152 cm) LCD Display with Ultra-Slim Bezel
­28 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
• Footprint - Front and rear projection systems require the
greatest consideration for space, while LCD displays and
direct-view LED panels consume a minimal footprint in
a room.
• Environmental factors - Significant ambient light in the
room and limited tolerance for mechanical noise may
preclude the use of front projectors. Outdoor applications
may necessitate a direct view LED display.
• Budget - Display technologies vary in terms of the upfront
costs for the displays and installation versus ongoing
maintenance needs such as lamp replacement. Videowall
maintenance is covered in the next section.
Display technologies continue to advance at a rapid pace. This
section provides summary technical information and practical
considerations relevant to multi-screen videowall applications.
Flat-Panel Displays
LCD displays are currently the most popular choice for
videowall applications. They range in size from 40" to 108"
42 in (107 cm) LCD Display with Thin Bezel
Photos Courtesy of Sharp
(102 cm to 274 cm), with a depth of 4" (10 cm) or less. They
are ideal for facilities with limited physical space or budgets. Individual Panel Dimensions:
15.8 in × 11.8 in (40 cm × 30 cm) – 240 pixels × 180 pixels
LCD panels designed for videowalls are typically available
with a 16:9 aspect ratio at resolutions such as 1366x768,
1920x1080, and 3840x2160. LCDs with a 16:10 aspect ratio
and 1920x1200 resolution are also available, though these are
desktop monitors.

The first displays used in professional video applications were

based on plasma technology, which is susceptible to image
burn-in. They were not suited for continuous-use applications
with the presentation of static content. Early flat-panel
videowalls were used in applications that emphasized the 21 ft (6.4 m) – 3840 pixels

8 ft 10 in (2.7 m) – 1620 pixels

artistic value of the bezel, small footprint, and budget, rather
than thin mullions. Thin bezels or mullions were not possible
with the early flat panels.

The availability of ultra-thin bezel models – less than

10 mm and a minimal footprint – has contributed to LED Tile Array
16 Tiles × 9 Tiles
LCD displays becoming very popular in a wide variety of
videowall applications.
Figure 2-15. A large LED display comprised of 144 individual panels

LED Displays
LED displays produce very high brightness and are frequently
used outdoors or in environments with high ambient light
conditions. LED display systems comprise several individual
panels, each containing an array of LEDs. A single pixel is
represented by a discrete surface-mount module incorporating
red, green, and blue elements.
An LED panel may have a resolution from 64x64 to 960x540
pixels, depending on the pitch, or spacing of the pixels, and
the size of the panel. Selection of the LED pixel pitch is based
on the intended use, viewing distance, and budget. LED
panels for outdoor use are intended for viewing from great
distances, and typically have a pixel pitch of 10 mm to 20 mm.
LED panels for indoor applications are viewed from closer
distances and frequently have a tighter pixel pitch, from 1
mm or less to 10 mm. Table 2-5 lists minimum preferred and
optimum viewing distances for five popular LED pixel spacings.
Video inputs are distributed to LED panels through one or
more signal processors. These processors are typically limited
to the magnification of a single image across the canvas.
Videowall processors can serve as an input to the LED signal
processors, providing advanced scaling, cropping, and
multisource windowing features for the entire LED display.
Figure 2-15 illustrates an LED videowall 21 feet (6.4 m) wide
and 8 feet 10 inches (2.7 m) tall with a total resolution of

PIXEL PITCH MINIMUM RECOMMENDED VIEWING DISTANCE OPTIMUM VIEWING DISTANCE

10 mm 112.7 ft (34.4 m) 187.8 ft (57.2 m)

5 mm 56.4 ft ( 17.2 m) 94.0 ft (28.7 m)

2.5 mm 28.2 ft ( 8.6 m) 47.0 ft ( 14.3 m)

1.5 mm 16.9 ft ( 5.1 m) 28.2 ft (8.6 m)

0.9 mm 10.1 ft (3.1 m) 16.8 ft (5.1 m)

0.6 mm 6.8 ft (2.1 m) 11.3 ft (3.4 m)

Table 2-5. Minimum and optimum viewing distance for common pixel spacings

www.extron.com 29
Display Devices
3840x1620 pixels. This display comprises 144 individual
panels, each 16" (40 cm) wide by 12" (30 cm) high. The
modular form factor of the panels provides a great deal of
creative latitude when designing the shape and size of an LED
display. Because of the low pixel density of LED displays, very
large LED displays may have resolutions that only require one
or just a few outputs from a videowall processor.
Projection
Multiple projectors may be used in videowall systems instead
of self-contained displays. They produce large images. They
also offer the opportunity to present source information across
fewer displays, resulting in fewer visible mullions.
Front or rear projection can be used. See Figure 2-16.
Projector selection is based on a variety of factors relevant to
the application. These include resolution, brightness, contrast
ratio, lens options, lamp life, picture adjustments, and the
capability to maintain color consistency over time. Projectors
are available with Ultra-High Performance — UHP lamp, LED,
or lasers as the illumination source. Also, they can have various
aspect ratios and native resolutions that range from 1280x800
to 1920x1200. Projectors are also available at higher
resolutions, including UHD (3840x2160) and 4K (4096x2160).
The best choice between front or rear projection for a videowall
is determined by the physical attributes of the viewing room
and available space.
Front Projection
Front projection videowalls require the use of ceiling-mount
systems, floor-level projection cabinets, or isolated projection
rooms. Ambient lighting conditions and screen technology
must be factored carefully into display brightness and contrast
requirements. If projectors are to be situated within the working
environment, other considerations are fan noise and floor
Mirror
Screen
Mirror
Figure 2-16. Front projection vs. rear projection, and edge blending vs. edge butting
­30 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
space. Installing front projection may restrict the usable floor
space. The design needs to ensure staff members do not
accidentally walk into the projection paths and cast shadows
on the screens.
Rear Projection
Rear projection systems place the projector in an enclosure
or projection room, isolating it from viewers. To minimize
the depth of the projection room, first-surface mirrors are
employed to “fold” the projection path.
Rear projection systems eliminate the long-throw distance,
ambient light spill, room obstructions, and fan noise that
can plague front projection systems. However, they require
dedicated space behind the display, and mounting systems
with projection mirrors that require greater complexity for setup
and maintenance than front projectors.
Videowall applications that incorporate projector arrays employ
either edge blending or edge butting techniques. See Figure
2-16. The design objective is to create a single, large display
delivering a continuous projected image.
Edge-Blended Projection
Edge blending is ideal for applications that require a large,
continuous display area with very high resolution. It is achieved
by overlapping the images of adjacent projectors, typically
by 20%. Video content projected in the overlap region
must be identical between projectors. This requires special
image processing that is not a standard feature in some
videowall processors.
To match the projected illumination between overlapped and
non-overlapped regions, special adjustments for brightness,
contrast, and gamma are required. Contrast must be
Edge Blending Edge Butting
Front Projection Rear Projection
Overlap Area Visible Seam/Join
attenuated in the overlapped regions to reduce the level of
bright content. Also, 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.
Windowing various input sources is common on projection
videowalls with edge blending. While edge blending produces
impressive displays, they are custom by nature. Also, the
increased complexity of picture adjustments requires that the
owner be prepared to accept higher service and maintenance
costs than more conventional display systems.
Edge-Butted Projection
Edge-butted projection displays do not apply an overlap
region. Picture adjustments and processing requirements are
far simpler than edge-blended displays. With edge-butted
displays, set up, alignment, and management are more
streamlined. A thin seam may be visible between images, but
a virtually seamless appearance is possible with precise image
alignment. However, maintaining this appearance over time
may require continual adjustments to image positioning.
Projection Cubes
For many years, projection cubes were the display technology
of choice for videowall installations. The first projection cubes
for videowalls featured CRT projectors housed in enclosures
that were four to five feet (1.2 to 1.5 m) deep with 40" (102 cm)
diagonal Fresnel and lenticular screens. CRT technology was
eventually replaced with LCD, DLP™, and LCoS projection
modules with lamp or LED-based illumination systems. They
Projection Cube
Photo Courtesy of Mitsubishi
A 4K projected image can serve as a perfectly seamless videowall for
presenting multiple high-resolution image sources.
have been engineered for long life, while maintaining tight
tolerances for brightness and color temperature. First, or
front,-surface mirrors have been incorporated to reduce the
projection path and enclosure footprint.
Current projection cube designs feature DLP projectors, with
native resolutions ranging from 1024x768 to 1920x1200.
They include LED illumination sources with lifetimes specified
between 50,000 and 80,000 hours. Laser illumination sources
have lifetimes specified between 60,000 and 100,000 hours.
Projection cubes are available in sizes from 50" to 80" (127 cm
to 203 cm) in aspect ratios of 4:3, 5:4, 16:9, or 16:10. They
generally require a footprint from 2 feet to 3 feet (0.5 to 1 m).
Projection cubes have very thin screen bezels that minimize
the appearance of “mullions” in the videowall, making them
popular in control room environments where detailed data and
graphics may be presented across multiple screens.
Modular Displays
Another class of display products feature a compact, modular
display size comparable to LCD and LED panels, with little
to no mullions. They are display technologies for creating
videowalls with many different shapes and configurations.
These displays are not limited to standard aspect ratios and
can be a square, a polygon, or some other abstract shape.
Signals are distributed to the displays by one or more
proprietary signal processing units. As with LED displays,
these units map an image onto an array of modules. A
videowall processor can be used to scale, crop, and manage
multiple source inputs into this creative display technology. ■
www.extron.com 31
Videowall Maintenance and Cost of Ownership
Videowall systems are high-value investments that require
periodic maintenance. They have very high duty cycles,
and downtime is unacceptable, especially in mission-
critical applications. It is essential that provisions for service,
maintenance, and total cost of ownership be considered
during the system design phase.
Planning for maintenance as well as operating costs ensures
end users remain within their operating budgets. This includes
a sufficient stock of consumables and replacement items.
Also, scheduling periodic, essential service visits maximizes
uptime and image quality. These measures help preserve value
in the investment.
Videowall Processors
The selected videowall processor should be capable of
delivering failsafe reliability and be fully supported by a
manufacturer’s warranty policy. For example, Extron videowall
processors include a three-year parts and labor warranty.
For applications in which the videowall must absolutely remain
operational at all times, the processor should include one or
more redundant, hot-swappable power supplies, depending
on the size of the installation. In secure environments with
restricted access, a spare parts kit might include system
controller parts and input and output cards in addition to fans
and power supplies.
Videowall Displays
Display selection can have a significant impact on the total
cost of ownership. Operating costs for display systems include
consumable items, such as air filters and lamps for projectors
or projection cubes, plus regularly scheduled cleaning. The
Extron Quantum Ultra videowall processors feature
a three-year parts and labor product warranty. The
Everlast power supply carries a seven-year warranty
for parts and labor.
­32 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
brightness and color composition of projection lamps and LED
light sources can drift over time, requiring periodic recalibration
and balancing across displays. Color balancing of displays
is a task best performed by an integrator with experienced,
certified technicians. Some projection cube models include
automatic color calibration systems that simplify maintenance
by minimizing the time required for color balancing.
Operating costs associated with supplying power and HVAC
can vary between different types of displays. They should be
considered when comparing display technology options.
Flat-Panel Displays
Flat-panel LCD and OLED displays for videowalls are not
intended to be repaired at the component level or with
consumable parts. The entire panel is generally replaced
when a serious failure occurs or when image brightness
becomes unacceptable. LED backlighting for LCD flat
panels offers practical lifespans of 50,000 hours or more.
OLED technology is self-emissive, meaning no light source is
required, with lifespan reported to be anywhere from 50,000
to 100,000 hours.
Flat panels require little or no maintenance. However, when
physical access to the displays is required, the location of
the videowall and design of the installation and mounting
system can impact labor cost by making service access easy
or difficult.
Professional flat-panel displays are usually covered by multi-
year manufacturer warranties. For mission-critical installations
with large numbers of displays, the end user should consider
having a spare unit on hand to avoid delays in receiving a
replacement from the manufacturer.
Some newer flat panel designs have external, rack-mountable
power and video processing modules, simplifying repair. These
features also eliminate the need to replace the physical panel
in case of a failure.
Manufacturers of flat-panel displays offer varying degrees of
advice, warranties, or guarantees concerning image retention
for their products. This is a concern with OLED displays more
than LCD. Replacement of flat panels can be inconvenient and
a surprise expense, so it is advisable to thoroughly examine
a manufacturer’s specifications and policies regarding image
retention on flat panels.
Location and access to the videowall can influence maintenance cost.
Projection Cubes and Projectors
Projection cube designs typically feature an enclosure with
a removable screen, a projection module, a light source, a
fan, and filter assemblies that make them very serviceable.
Projection cubes are available in models offering either rear
or front access, which can impact the cost and convenience
of maintenance. Where required, the end user should have
a stock of spare lamps, screens, and projection modules to
minimize downtime in the event of a projector malfunction or
accidental screen damage.
Projection cubes initially incorporated UHP lamps as a light
source. They have a lifespan of between 6,000 and 10,000
hours. UHP lamps have largely been replaced by LED
illumination in projection cubes but are still used in some front
and rear projectors. Projectors with UHP lamps installed in
24/7, mission-critical operations reach the 6,000- to 10,000-
hour mark much more quickly than systems that are used
only during eight-hour work days. Table 2-6 lists annual lamp
replacement requirements based on the operating schedule.
In general, videowalls with UHP lamps require annual lamp
replacement or at most every two years.
Lamp replacement should be performed by trained
technicians. When a new lamp is installed in a projector cube
or projector, color balancing is necessary. Therefore, the
maintenance budget should include color calibration as part of
the labor costs associated with lamp replacement. Projection
cubes with self-calibration features or integrated lamp
replacement systems require less time and effort for system
repair and realignment.
LED-illuminated projection cubes and projectors have lifespans
between 50,000 and 80,000 hours. They offer greater stability
for brightness and color over time than the once-standard
UHP lamps. Lasers are becoming increasingly popular as
a light source for projectors and projection cubes and can
provide 60,000 to 100,000 hours of use before replacement.
These technologies result in lower operating costs, effectively
eliminating the cost associated with light source replacement.
www.extron.com 33
Videowall Maintenance and Cost of Ownership

Cleaning LAMP HOURS

Displays with intake filters, as well as videowall processors, HOURS PER DAY DAYS PER WEEK PER YEAR
8 5 2,080
should be kept clean and free of dust and dirt. Clogged filters
8 7 2,920
and excessive dust accumulation inside the equipment may
12 5 3,120
cause it to overheat, and in some cases, shut down until
12 7 4,380
temperatures drop to normal operating levels. Projection
24 7 8,760
brightness is reduced when dust builds up on lenses.
Unplanned outages and sub-optimal display quality can Table 2-6. Typical operating schedules for videowalls and the resulting
UHP lamp usage
be prevented by including cleaning as part of the regularly
scheduled maintenance. Furthermore, consistently
maintaining normal operating temperatures helps maximize
product lifespan. or yearly rate or at a fixed rate per visit. These service
contracts may include the cost of spares, lamps, and quarterly
Preventive Maintenance Agreements or bi-annual visits for cleaning, color adjustments, and lamp
Preventive maintenance agreements help keep videowalls replacements. Alternatively, they may be based on time and
looking and performing their best and can prevent problems materials needed. A number of emergency on-site visits for
before they occur. Agreements can be billed at a flat quarterly repairs may also be included in a service contract. ■

Mounting systems that provide easy access

to all displays minimize the time and
costs associated with servicing flat-panel
videowalls.

­34 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

Input Sources for Videowalls
In addition to presenting large, windowed images, a
videowall offers unique value in its capability to display a
variety of digital and analog video formats and signals.
Some also decode networked video streams. The
specific signals a videowall processor supports vary from
manufacturer to manufacturer, and from model to model.
Videowall processors are often targeted towards specific
applications. For example, a processor used in traffic
management or security applications typically supports a
large number of IP camera feeds. Command and control
systems must support computer-video signals that may be
digital, streamed, or in some cases, legacy analog signals
and even combinations of these types of sources. In order
to select the right videowall processor for your application,
you need to identify the primary signal types to be used.
Standard Definition Video
Standard definition video sources are defined as full motion
video with resolutions of 720×480 or less, with frame rates
of either 30 frames per second progressive or 60 fields per
second interlaced. Standard definition video signals require
less bandwidth and processing resources on a videowall
processor than high definition, 4K and computer graphic
signals, because they are lower resolution and contain less
information. However, standard definition video is becoming
a far less common requirement for videowalls.
High Definition Video
High definition video signals carry full-motion imagery, with
parameters defined by the Advanced Television Systems
Committee - ATSC standard at 1280x720 or 1920x1080
resolutions. The bandwidth of a high definition signal is at
least five times that of standard definition video.
UHD and 4K Video
UHD (3840x2160) and 4K (4096x2160) signals are gaining
popularity, while continuing along an evolving path. New
features such as expanded color gamut and high dynamic
range further increase the realism of 4K video presentations.
But, it places increased demands on the bandwidth required
by videowall processors to manage these signals. For more
information on UHD and 4K signals, refer to the Extron
white paper “Hitting the Moving Target of 4K”, available at
www.extron.com/4kpaper.
Computer Graphics
Computer graphics refers to imagery produced on
computers that typically, but not always, are at high
resolutions. Computer-video resolutions frequently range
from 1024x768 to 1920x1200. It can also be as low as
640x480 and as high as 3840x2160 and beyond. Computer
graphic signals carry information for a 4:4:4, RGB color
space. A computer-video signal with a 1920x1200 resolution
uses over ten times the bandwidth required for a standard
definition signal. A 3840x2160 signal uses almost four times
the bandwidth of a 1920x1200 signal.
Analog Signal Formats
Analog video and computer-video signals are a diminishing
entity. Today, end users select digital source devices for
new projects, but analog sources may still be encountered
at some sites. Videowall processors must support analog
signals or incorporate external signal convertors when
expanding existing display systems. Table 3-1 lists common
analog signal formats for standard-definition, high-definition,
and computer video.
Digital Signal Formats
Offering superior image quality and resolution, as well
as support for ancillary audio and control data, current
consumer and professional video sources and computers
incorporate digital signal interfaces. Digital signals such as
HDMI and DisplayPort offer advanced signal management
features for EDID and High-bandwidth Digital Content
Protection - HDCP.
DVI and SDI digital formats were popular in commercial and
broadcast applications for over a decade. However, HDMI is
now the most popular digital signal format for AV systems,
including videowall systems.
Videowalls are often installed in environments where
considerable distances can separate the video sources,
displays, or processing equipment. For spans longer than
35 feet (11 m), copper digital video cables are often unable
to transmit signals reliably, especially higher resolutions
such as 4K. Videowall processors are incorporating digital
technology that delivers and receives video signals across
long distances using CATx twisted pair cable terminated with
RJ-45 connectors. This facilitates easy integration of long
signal runs across low cost, industry-standard cables.
www.extron.com 35
Input Sources for Videowalls

Format Connection Maximum Supported Format Typical Source Devices

Composite Video 525 or 625 line interlaced video, Consumer video products
25 Hz - 30 Hz
or

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

Component / YPbPr HDTV 720p or 1080i @ 60 Hz Cable or satellite set-top boxes, DVD players
or

3 RCA 3 BNC

RGB 1920x1200 @ 60 Hz Computers, video processors, scalers

or

3 - 5 BNC VGA

Table 3-1. Analog video signal formats

Format Connection Maximum Resolution HDCP Support Typical Source Devices

Single-Link DVI 1920x1200 @ 60 Hz, Yes (Optional) Computers, video processors, scalers
2048x1080 @ 60 Hz

DVI

Dual-Link DVI 2560x1600 @ 60 Hz Yes (Optional) Application-specific computers for

medical, production, and design

DVI

HDMI 4096x2160 @ 60 Hz Yes Blu-ray players, cable and satellite set-top

boxes, video games, computers

HDMI

DisplayPort 3840x2160 @ 60 Hz Yes Graphics cards, laptops

DisplayPort

IP Network Streaming Hardware dependent Hardware dependent Hardware encoders

PCs (software encoders)

RJ-45

IP Network Streaming Fiber Hardware dependent Hardware dependent Hardware encoders

(Various) PCs (software encoders)

Extron DTP 4096x2160 @ 60 Hz Yes External transmitter required to convert

Extron XTP each source to appropriate twisted pair
HDBaseT format
(Twisted Pair)
RJ-45

SDI SDI: Standard definition No Broadcast Signal Processing and

HD-SDI interlaced Video Management
3G-SDI HD-SDI: HDTV 720p or
1080i @ 60 Hz,
BNC
HDTV 1080p @ 30 Hz
3G-SDI: HDTV 1080p @ 60 Hz
12G-SDI: 2160p @ 60 Hz

Table 3-2. Digital video signal formats

­36 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

Table 3-2 summarizes the common digital signal formats.
Specifications for digital signals will continue to advance
with the need to accommodate higher resolutions and more
capabilities for professional and consumer applications.
HDCP Compliance
HDMI signals can include HDCP, a digital rights management
scheme to prevent unauthorized copying of digital content.
Some DVI connections also support HDCP. Proper display
of HDCP-encrypted content by a videowall processor
requires that it support HDCP at both the input and output
connections, and that HDCP-compliant display devices are
used. Note that HD and 4K content incorporate different
versions of HDCP. For compatibility with UHD/4K signals, a
minimum of HDCP version 2.1 is required for all devices in the
signal chain.
For more information on digital video, consult the Extron Digital
Design Guide, available at www.extron.com/ddg.
Local and Client Applications
Some videowall processors operate like computers, with
the videowall displaying a large, active desktop. This offers
the flexibility to install and operate software applications or
software clients directly on the videowall system. Many of
these applications produce ultra-high resolution material
presented natively across multiple screens. This capability
is frequently required for videowalls in utility and network
operations centers.
The Extron Digital Design Guide
provides a reference for AV
system designers seeking to
understand emerging digital
technologies, with a practical
approach to integrating these
technologies in new and legacy
presentation systems.
Software applications such as Virtual Network Computing
- VNC may be used to share imagery from a computer
desktop with a videowall processor. This method of delivering
a computer image is effective for presenting static or
low‑motion imagery. However, it can be overloaded at the
client or server end if the content contains full-motion video,
high-motion visualizations, or animations. The result can be
imagery that does not update at speeds expected by the
user or undesired processing loads for the source computer
or videowall processor.
Streamed Content
There is a growing need for videowall processors to decode
video sources that have been streamed over networks.
Sources may be streamed over a local area network -
LAN, which provides a cost-effective, scalable delivery
infrastructure. Video may also be delivered from distant
locations across a wide area network - WAN.
A variety of methods are available for decoding streamed
content. Scalability and performance requirements for a
videowall may influence the decision to use the decoder
built into the videowall processor or external hardware for
decoding streamed sources.
For more information on video streaming technology, refer
to the Extron AV Streaming Design Guide, available at
https://www.extron.com/article/avstreamingdgad. ■
The Extron AV Streaming Design
Guide provides reference
data, information on important
technical topics, and real-
world application examples
demonstrating practical uses of
Extron streaming technologies.
www.extron.com 37
Videowall Processor Architecture
The most effective videowall designs apply equal importance
to video signal processing and display technology. For
applications that only require one large image, displays
with built-in processing can scale the image across the
array. But whenever there is a need to present multiple
images in windows on the screens, dedicated videowall
processing is a must. It is critical that the end user’s intended
application for the videowall be clearly identified during the
needs assessment.
The traditional videowall processor architecture is a unit with
inputs, outputs, and specialized built-in processing. This was
originally based on a card-cage platform with input and output
cards and an internal bus to handle signal transfer within the
unit. Processing is also available as a system of modules, with
signal processing distributed or shared between them. Other
videowall processing solutions combine elements of these
two architectures.
The first important design consideration for videowall
processing is to determine the appropriate architecture, or
hardware form factor, for the application and environment.
There are several important aspects to take into account, all
of which arise from a detailed assessment of the end user’s
desired outcome. Requirements include:
• Quantity of input sources
• Locations of the input sources, whether local to the videowall
processor, dispersed throughout the facility, or both
CENTRALIZED VIDEOWALL PROCESSING
Auxiliary Display Videowall Auxiliary Display
Desktop PC
Videowall Processor
Desktop PC Desktop PC Desktop PC Desktop PC
LOCAL INPUTS
Figure 3-1. Videowall systems with a centralized videowall processor
­38 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
• Number of displays in the videowall
• Possible need for the videowall to be scalable, so it can be
expanded over time with new sources or additional displays
without replacing the processor
• Available space and locations for AV equipment, including
videowall processing
Centralized Videowall Processing
Centralized videowall processing, with input and output
signals handled within a single unit, is ideal for applications
in which the sources and displays are local to the processor.
See Figure 3-1. If long signal runs are required for source or
display connectivity, twisted pair or fiber optic signal extension
solutions are available, either externally or partially integrated
into the cards. Centralized video processors are available in a
large variety of sizes and formats, from just a few inputs and
outputs, to dozens of device connections.
Some processors feature a fixed input and output
configuration in a 2U or 3U chassis. Other processors are
card-cage designs, populated with different types of input and
output cards that vary depending on the source and display
types used. These systems are typically customized and
configured at the factory on a built-to-order basis, and typically
have from eight to 16 card slots or more. Most offer the
ability to display multiple sources per screen, and some offer
advanced features such as internally generate clocks that can
be display in multiple time zones, window borders, window
titles, and dynamic text windows.
Auxiliary Display Videowall Auxiliary Display
Desktop PC
Desktop PC Desktop PC
Desktop PC Videowall Desktop PC
Processor
Desktop PC Blu-ray Player Desktop PC
Desktop PC Matrix Switcher Desktop PC
SWITCHED AND LOCAL INPUTS
Card-cage processors provide scalability, especially when
configured with vacant card slots. This allows the addition
of more input or output cards over time. Cards can also be
swapped out for system upgrades or maintenance. Including
a matrix switcher also adds input scalability to a videowall
system, as shown in Figure 3-1.
An advantage of a centralized videowall processor is that it
can be installed, configured, and serviced in a single location
as a single unit. This makes a centralized processor potentially
simpler to configure and manage than videowall processing
architectures comprised of many separate devices.
Distributed Videowall Processing
In a distributed videowall processing architecture, input and
output connections as well as signal processing are distributed
among modules. Two common forms of distributed videowall
processing are illustrated in Figure 3-2. For the system on
the left, each display in the videowall is fed by a videowall
processing module. A matrix switcher is used to distribute
signals from the input sources into the modules. The matrix
switcher and modules function together as a single processing
system, controlled by a computer or control system
over Ethernet.
For the second system in Figure 3-2, sources are connected
into input modules that convert signals for distribution over
a network. The streams are received by output processing
modules connected directly to the videowall displays. Again, a
computer or control system is used to manage the modules as
a system.
A distributed videowall processing architecture has some
potential advantages, including system scalability. The
videowall can be easily expanded with additional displays or
new sources by adding modules to the system. A distributed
videowall processing system with network-based modules is
ideal for installations where input sources are not central to
an AV equipment rack, but rather are located throughout a
room or facility. Additionally, distributed videowall processing
can reduce the need for AV rack space when the modules are
localized to the sources or displays.
There are some installations in which videowall processing
capabilities are incorporated within the displays themselves,
either as a built-in feature or processing cards. They may
receive source signals distributed over a network from input
modules local to the sources or directly from a matrix switcher
with the sources connected to the inputs.
Hybrid Videowall Processing
Some videowall processing systems combine centralized
and distributed processing architectures. One example is
shown in Figure 3-3, in which the input sources are connected
to modules that stream their content over the network to
a centralized videowall processor. This system is ideal for
installations with some sources remotely located throughout
the facility and others local to the videowall processor.

DISTRIBUTED VIDEOWALL PROCESSING

Auxiliary Display Videowall Auxiliary Display Auxiliary Display Videowall Auxiliary Display

Output Module Output Module

Output Module Output Module

Output Output Output Output Output Output

Desktop PC Desktop PC Module Module Module Module Module Module
Output Output Output Output Output Output
Module Module Module Module Module Module
Desktop PC Desktop PC

Desktop PC Desktop PC Input Module Input Module

Desktop PC Desktop PC
Input Module IP Network Input Module
Matrix Switcher
Desktop PC Desktop PC

Desktop PC Input Module Input Module Desktop PC

MATRIX SWITCHER DISTRIBUTION IP NETWORK DISTRIBUTION

Figure 3-2. Videowall systems with distributed videowall processing modules

www.extron.com 39
Videowall Processor Architecture

Centralized videowall processors can be expanded by HYBRID VIDEOWALL PROCESSING

connecting to external modules with additional inputs and
Auxiliary Display Videowall Auxiliary Display
outputs or by cascading additional processors that work
together as a single processor. This solution is somewhat
similar to a distributed videowall processing system where
signal and processing loads are shared among the units. ■

Desktop PC Desktop PC

Videowall
Processor

Desktop PC Input Module Blu-ray Player Input Module Desktop PC

Desktop PC Input Module Distribution Input Module Desktop PC

Network

Desktop PC Input Module Input Module

Desktop PC

NETWORK DISTRIBUTION

Figure 3-3. Videowall system with centralized videowall processing plus

distributed modules at the input sources.

Extron NAV provides a pro AV over IP solution for networked switching and display of signals with distributed Videowall processing capabilities.

­40 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

Videowall Processor Hardware Platforms
Centralized videowall processors are based on one of
two hardware platforms. Purpose-designed, real-time
video processors, similar to basic AV scalers and multi-
window processors. Others apply PC architecture as the
foundation. Some processors incorporate a combination of
these platforms.
Each platform has distinct advantages for meeting-specific
applications. The best videowall processor satisfies end user
input and output interfacing needs and fulfills reliability and
performance expectations for presenting sources with high
image quality. Ideally, all images should display at their original
frame rates and be free of any stuttering, image tearing, and
other visible artifacts caused by signal or processing overload.
Furthermore, the videowall processor should respond to user
or control system commands in real-time. Any noticeable
latency is an indication that the system’s processing capability
has been exceeded. In 24/7, mission-critical applications, the
processor must also deliver continuous, failsafe reliability.
History
Introduced in the mid-1980s, videowall processing platforms
were based on a card frame. A control processor and a data
bus transported video from input cards to output cards. See
Figure 3-4. They provided advanced video memory and high-
speed bus technologies that made high-speed, high-volume
calculations possible for real-time video image scaling and
enabled fast delivery of video between the cards.
Manufacturers have pursued a variety of evolving design
platforms. They capitalized on advancements in high-speed
data bus technology, commercially available off-the-shelf PCBs
Inputs Input cards
Card frame
Outputs
Bus
Output cards
Data flow on bus
Figure 3-4. Historical videowall processing architecture
or computer components, and network transport methods.
These technologies have resulted in higher image quality,
real-time performance, scalability, or cost targets.
Appliance-Based Videowall Processors
Appliance-based videowall processors are built on a
proprietary hardware platform, designed with a custom
controller, high-speed video bus, and a tailored operating
system. These processors are designed to provide
predictable, real-time video processing and device control in
a stable operating environment.
Appliance designs can have a fixed input/output configuration
or a card frame architecture. Fixed I/O processors have a
defined number of inputs and outputs, with the video signal
formats predetermined. Card frame processors are flexible,
supporting specified input and output requirements.
Appliance-type processors typically have a custom operating
system and fast boot times of less than one minute. They
are generally purpose-built to handle all of the videowall
processing requirements, delivering reliable, high-quality
images to the displays. The stability and robustness of the
operating system and video-specific hardware make these
devices ideal for continuous 24/7 environments.
Computer-Based Videowall Processors
Computer-based videowall processing designs integrate
components, technologies, and architectures. These include
a motherboard or single-board computer, power supply,
PCIe - PCI Express bus, and hard drives running a Microsoft
Windows or Linux operating system.
This platform emerged in the 1990s to support new graphics
cards with multiple outputs. They enable computers to span
multiple screens. Today, input capture cards and output cards
developed for use in videowall applications can be installed in
off-the-shelf industrial computer frames.
Computer-based videowall processors are capable of
displaying a large extended computer desktop on the
videowall, as well as multi-source windows. They offer
capabilities common to computer functions, such as running
software applications while presenting external input sources.
Some computer-based processors incorporate proprietary
input and output cards into purpose designed card frames.
www.extron.com 41
Videowall Processor Hardware Platforms
Although they offer superior processing performance when
compared to off-the-shelf computers, there are disadvantages
when implementing such technologies in real-time
videowall production.
In particular, the PCIe data bus frequently applied in these
processors must perform double duty. They have to manage
interrupts from system resources such as the CPU, storage,
or network port, while transporting video from input cards to
output cards. Mixing inter-system communications and video
transport on this PCIe bus makes the video performance
difficult to predict. Real-time performance also degrades
significantly as video-source loading increases on the bus.
Videowall processors based on computer technology may
provide performance that is “good enough” for simple video
and static graphical data. It may not be satisfactory when
applied to continuous use, mission-critical environments that
require real-time device control and presenting many video
and motion graphic sources. Additionally, they can experience
extended shutdown and boot times.
Combined PC and Appliance Platforms
As the videowall market has matured, products have emerged
that incorporate both hardware appliance and computer-
based technology. These system designs capitalize on the
benefits of each platform. These include the operational
familiarity of a computer-based processor and the high
performance and reliability of a hardware appliance processor.
Compared to computer-based processors, they offer the
stability and performance of a standard AV appliance.
Quantum Ultra Connect, Quantum Ultra, and Quantum Ultra
II are Extron videowall processors that combine computer
Multi-function Bus
One bus used for all data
External Video Data
Inputs
Intra-system Data
Bidirectional PCI or PCI Express Bus
Figure 3-5. Shared bus vs. dedicated video and data buses
­42 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
and appliance platforms. They use a customized operating
system based on a “pruned down” variation of a standard
Windows operating system. This solution requires fewer
system resources, dramatically reducing boot time and
improving system stability. All processors in the Quantum
Ultra family have solid-state storage drives, which further
optimizes boot time and system reliability.
Quantum Ultra processors feature proprietary input and
output cards, with on-board, high performance video
processing and scaling. They also incorporate a high-
speed, high-capacity data bus dedicated to transporting
real-time video from input to output cards. It is physically
separate from inter-system communication on the PCI bus.
See Figure 3-5. The input cards, output cards, and bus are
engineered to operate as a system, much like a hardware
appliance, and requires minimal loads on the CPU. This
ensures predictable, real-time performance with high-quality
images delivered to the videowall. Additionally, with minimal
loading on system resources, these processors respond to
user or control system commands in real-time and without
the latency associated with heavy signal processing tasks.
Summary
The ideal videowall processor fully satisfies the installation
requirements, as well as general end user expectations
for reliable operation and very high-quality images on the
canvas. System performance, dependability, the capability
to run computer applications on the videowall, and budget
are some of the important factors in selecting a videowall
processor. Additional considerations include image
processing and other functions. These are explored further
in the next section. ■
Specific Purposed Bus
Video bus independent from system data bus
Outputs External
Video Data Outputs
Inputs
Unidirectional High-speed Video Bus
Intra-system Data
Bidirectional PCI or PCI Express Bus
Videowall Processor Features
Videowall processors are available with a wide range of
features and capabilities. Many of them relate to system
performance, image quality, and reliability, while others help
streamline system design and meet integration needs. These
are targeted at specific vertical markets and applications and
vary by manufacturer and model.
When selecting a videowall processor, it is important to
understand more than just which source formats and
how many input and output channels must be supported.
Assessing the environment and application for the videowall
helps identify the most critical features the processor must
support. When comparing processors, be aware that
manufacturer claims of capabilities or performance may
be generalized or represented by inaccurate or misleading
specifications in the brochure and on web pages.
Dedicated Video Bus
Centralized videowall processors use a data bus to transport
video from their inputs to their outputs. Some systems
incorporate a dedicated bus for this purpose, while other
systems use a common bus for transferring video as well as
other inter-system communication. Use of a dedicated video
bus ensures that the transfer of video data is not impeded
by other activity. It provides more reliable, stutter-free video
playback and ensures the processor responds to user
commands in real-time.
Scalability
Some end users will want to add more input or output
channels over time. This may be part of a phased installation
or an unforeseen upgrade. While some processors are easily
expandable, some have a “fixed configuration” that cannot be
changed after leaving the factory. Other videowall processors
are upgradeable but may require on-site support from the
manufacturer to change the hardware configuration.
Redundancy & Accessibility Features
For videowall processors used in mission-critical or 24/7
environments, redundant and hot-swappable components
are essential. Redundant, hot-swappable power supplies
keep processors running during a failure of the facility’s power
grid and facilitate replacement without powering down the
unit. Hot-swappable fans can also be quickly and easily
be replaced if necessary. The capability to replace these
components without removing the videowall processor from
the rack minimizes downtime.
Data Storage
Hard drives are one of the first points of failure for a computer.
Videowall processors with hard drives can become inoperable
if a failure occurs. To reduce this risk, some videowall
processors use RAID or removable solid-state storage for
their operating systems. Solid-state storage virtually eliminates
the possibility of hard drive failure while adding the benefit of
reduced boot time.
4K Support
Support for 4K/60 signals is an important feature for videowall
processors. Many processors support multipath 4K/60,
accepting or outputting two or four signals that are stitched
together to form a cohesive single image. This method also
requires source equipment or displays that can process 4K
as four separate signals. Supporting 4K/60 signals on a single
connection is more efficient, but this feature is currently only
available on a few processors.
4K sources place a heavy load on a videowall processor’s
video bus. This is because of the format’s high pixel count. As
a result, some processors may be limited in the number of full-
resolution 4K sources that can be displayed at any one time.
Bus capacity and bus management capabilities are important
when the system includes a large number of connected
4K sources.
Upscaling and Downscaling Quality
Maintaining image quality is crucial for videowall processors,
which often display large images at high resolution, or
downsized images as smaller windows. Poor scaling can
produce artifacts, rendering imagery ineffective for applications
requiring critical analysis of content.
Figure 3-6 shows how visual information is preserved or lost
when high- or low-quality downscaling is applied. Since image
quality frequently must be judged subjectively, the best way to
assess scaling performance is to see a videowall processor in
operation at a site. Another option is to view a demonstration
where the system is displaying content similar to what will be
presented in the intended application.
Full Color-Depth Processing
Full color-depth processing is required to preserve the quality
of 24-bit or 30-bit video and graphics without introducing color
banding. Some videowall processors reduce the color depth
of incoming source signals to reduce bandwidth on their video
www.extron.com 43
bus. While this helps preserve real-time performance, color
reproduction can be compromised. Figure 3-7 illustrates the
color banding artifact. This bit reduction may not be noticeable
on simple content, such as computer desktops or data
screens, but may be noticeable with high-resolution video,
animation, and rendered graphic visualizations.
Accurate Input Detection
Incoming source signals can vary widely in signal format and
resolution. Quick, accurate input detection and configuration of
input sources is ideal. Slow auto-detection can produce blank
windows that are presented for an undesirable length of time.
Inaccurate input signal detection can result in image distortion
or no image being displayed.
Proper detection of legacy analog sources can be especially
challenging. Manual programming to correct these issues
for each input can add weeks of programming that can
be avoided with the support of quick and accurate input
detection. This capability also simplifies the integration of new
sources and temporary sources, such as guest laptops.
Custom Input Management
When a videowall processor detects an analog input signal,
it typically compares it to a list of known formats and selects
the closest match to determine the signal parameters. Another
technique is to examine certain elements of the signal. These
can include sync polarity and line timing. The processor then
Scaling Artifacts
No Scaling Artifacts
Figure 3-6. High quality scaling maintains critical image details when
content is downscaled.
­44 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
performs a source capture based on VESA standard CVT
- Coordinated Video Timing or GTF - Generalized Timing
Formula calculations for the signal parameters.
Incorrect format detection can occur if there are non-standard
signal formats or if the sources are altered by upstream
signal processing or signal extenders. To correct this issue, a
videowall processor should allow customization of input signal
parameters. This permits manual adjustment of input source
sampling to ensure proper source display. Some processors
allow custom source profiles to be created for each input,
while others allow the custom profile to be created just once
and then shared across inputs. Profile proliferation reduces
integration time and complexity.
Custom signals from digital sources are more easily
accommodated since information about the signal, such as
the resolution and timing, is embedded within the data stream.
This simplifies the processor’s task of properly decoding
and displaying the image. Check the detection speed and
supported formats, which vary from processor to processor.
Custom Output Modes
Some videowall processors allow customization of the output
resolutions. This is useful if the system’s display devices are
of a non-standard resolution, or when the display device’s
resolution is not included in the processor’s default output
mode table.
Bit-reduced Color
No Bit-reduction
Figure 3-7. Full color depth processing avoids color banding artifacts
associated with a reduction in color resolution.
Videowall Processor Features
Mullion/Bezel 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 have a
physical bezel around the active picture area. The active
picture area stops at the inner edge of the bezel. Therefore,
when they are stacked together to form a tiled display, there
can be screen-to-screen gaps across panels.
If a videowall processor does not account for the gap
between displays, the result looks unnatural. A processor
can compensate for this effect by clipping away a small
percentage of the image which should physically be
positioned behind the bezel. See Figure 3-8. The sidebar
details the calculations to determine the horizontal
and vertical mullion pixel sizes necessary for proper
mullion/bezel compensation.
HDCP Support
High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection, or HDCP, is
an encryption system widely used for content delivered by
Blu-ray Disc players, satellite and cable TV receivers, and
computers. To properly display encrypted content, all devices
in the signal chain must be HDCP-compliant. The use of digital
video sources has made HDCP compliance a requirement
for videowall processors. Updates to HDCP standards have
included accommodations for high-value 4K content. HDCP
versions 1.x provide support for standard-definition and high-
definition content, while HDCP 2.1 or higher is required for
support of encrypted content at 4K and above.
How to Calculate Mullion Compensation
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 adjustment.
The following example calculation is based on a 52 inch (132 cm) 1080p
LCD panel 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 1 inch (25 mm).
Determine the horizontal pixels per inch - PPI by dividing the number of
active horizontal pixels by the width of the active display area:
1920/45.375 in = 44.26 Horizontal PPI
Determine the vertical PPI by dividing the number of active vertical pixels
by the height of the active picture area:
1080/25.5 in = 42.35 Vertical PPI
Calculate the necessary mullion compensation for the left mullion by
multiplying the width of the left mullion by the horizontal PPI:
No mullion
compensation
Mullion
compensation applied
Figure 3-8. With mullion compensation, images appear more natural on
a videowall.
Edge Blending Support
Some videowall displays comprise multiple projectors that
overlap with each other to create one large, seamless
image on a front or rear projection screen. In these systems,
the canvas has to be duplicated between outputs in the
overlapped region. Also, brightness, contrast, and special color
adjustments must be available in zones to balance brightness
and color across the blended and unblended regions.
Duplicating the imagery required for edge blending is a
feature that may not be available on every processor. Some
videowall processors may support zoned brightness and
Left Mullion Compensation = 1 in x 44.26 PPI = 44.26 pixels
Repeat the calculation for the right mullion:
Right Mullion Compensation = 1 in x 44.26 PPI = 44.26 pixels
Add the two values to arrive at the total horizontal mullion compensation:
Total Horizontal Mullion Compensation = 44.26 + 44.26 = 88.52 or
89 pixels
Calculate the vertical mullion compensation using the same approach:
Top Mullion Compensation = 0.83 in x 42.35 PPI = 35.15 pixels
Bottom Mullion Compensation = 0.83 in x 42.35 PPI = 35.15 pixels
Total Vertical Mullion Compensation = 35.15 + 35.15 = 70.3 or 70 pixels
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

unclassified data and orange for top-secret data. In a traffic

monitoring environment, a red border can help highlight an
accident. Overlay text can be used to provide information
about the source, such as the location of a reporter. Clocks
displaying the time for different regions or time zones can
be generated by many processors, allowing an integrator to
New York London streamline system designs by avoiding the need for external
clocks or status displays.
11:16:32 15:16:32
Wednesday, March 21st 2012 Wednesday, March 21st 2012
Remote Control Protocol
Figure 3-9. Videowall presentations can be enhanced with window Some applications may require a touch panel, controller,
borders and titles, as well as clocks. or use of a customized application for videowall control.
In these systems, the videowall processor must support
color adjustments, but this capability can also be supported Ethernet or RS-232 remote control. Control options vary from
by many projector models. When designing an edge-blended manufacturer to manufacturer, so it is important to make
system, carefully evaluate the projector adjustment and certain that all required control capabilities are supported.
videowall processor capabilities. Videowall control is discussed further in a later section.

Flexible Source Placement Portrait Output Orientation

A videowall processor’s capability to display source windows
varies greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some
processors allow up to four source windows to be displayed
on a single screen, while other models enable dozens of
windows to be presented per screen. Displaying the same
source in multiple windows or multiple outputs at different
sizes can be beneficial for very wide videowalls servicing
segmented workgroups in a large room. The greater the
source placement and windowing capabilities of the processor,
the more flexibility there is to create the window layouts that
satisfy application requirements.
Display devices in a videowall are usually arranged in
landscape orientation. However, a system designer may favor
displays in portrait orientation or an asymmetrical layout to
meet creative or technical objectives for a project. Figure 3-10
illustrates a comparison between videowalls with landscape
and portrait-oriented panels. It shows that the use of vertical
displays may produce a more compelling presentation of
images and objects.

Multiple Output Resolutions

Some videowall processors can output multiple signal formats
simultaneously. This is useful for systems that incorporate
displays of various resolutions, such as a videowall comprised
of large 1920x1080 projection cubes flanked by 3840x2160
flat panels as auxiliary displays. Processors limited to one
output format should feed a signal at the native resolution of
the videowall displays. For auxiliary displays, signals from the
processor may be upscaled or downscaled to match their
native resolutions.

Window Borders, Titles, and Clocks

A videowall processor’s capability to add colored borders and
text to source windows can be a powerful feature in many
environments. Colored borders can denote the status of the
Figure 3-10. Orienting displays in portrait mode may allow for
content in a command and control room, such as green for a more compelling presentation.
­46 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
A videowall processor that has the capability to rotate its
outputs can easily accommodate portrait displays. However,
this is not a common feature and is only supported by a few
models. Make sure the processor selected for the system can
handle this requirement if it is crucial to the project’s success.
IP Decoding
The security and traffic management industries have migrated
from analog, standard-definition video cameras to IP-based
cameras which produce high-resolution H.264, MJPEG, or
other digital video streams. These streams can be decoded
by a computer or outboard processor and delivered to a
videowall processor as HDMI/DVI, SDI, or another format.
Some videowall processors have the capability to directly
accept an IP stream and decode it internally, eliminating the
need for external decoding. Overlaying embedded Metadata
on the video signal is a popular feature that aids the system
operator in identifying the images they are seeing.
Virtual Network Computing – VNC is a desktop-sharing
system that consists of a server application running on a
computer that is sharing its desktop and a client application
that decodes the stream. Some videowall processors have
an integrated VNC client application that allows one or
more shared desktops to be displayed. Because the image
generally refreshes only a few times per second, VNC works
best for desktop sources with minimal motion, such as
data screens.
Application Control
Videowalls in data-driven environments such as utilities
and network centers often require the capability to manage
applications presented on the videowall using a keyboard
and mouse. This can be accommodated by installing and
operating applications directly on some videowall processors,
much like a computer. Other solutions integrate hardware or
networked software switching systems to manage keyboard
and mouse control on the source machines. Software
solutions mandate compliance with operating systems and
network security requirements, while hardware solutions
require additional cabling and control integration.
3D Support
Visualization or simulation applications may necessitate
presentation of 3D content. Few videowall processors
currently support this feature since 3D imaging is a specialty
application. Additionally, the system’s source devices and
displays must be compatible with 3D content and signals.
Note that there are two different types of 3D presentation,
passive and active. Viewing passive 3D entails wearing
polarized glasses. Active 3D requires electronically shuttered
glasses that receive timing information from a transmitted
synchronization signal.
Preview Output
Some organizations want a smaller representation of the
videowall available for viewing elsewhere in a facility, on
one or two screens, or streamed to another location. This
allows other staff to see an overview of the videowall, without
requiring the use of a large number of display devices. Some
processors provide a preview output of the videowall within the
control software or one that can be sent to an output. Other
processors allow preview layouts to be programmed and
presented on additional outputs.
Low Throughput Latency
Video processors introduce a degree of throughput latency,
resulting in the processed output being slightly delayed when
compared to the original input source. The amount of latency
varies from a few milliseconds to several hundred milliseconds.
This delay also depends on the amount of processing being
performed and how efficiently the processor is executing
its tasks.
Throughput delay may have a negligible impact for most
videowall applications. However, it can be a concern when the
videowall is displaying camera feeds for a live event, or when
an operator using a mouse to work with a computer source
presented on the videowall. When calculating throughput
latency, one must include any other devices in the signal chain
that could introduce delay, such as signal extenders, additional
scalers or video processors, and displays.
Conclusion
No single videowall processor offers every feature and
capability presented in this guide. When designing a system,
focus on fulfilling the installation’s most critical features
and functions. Ensure the videowall processor you select
satisfies the application requirements. Where specifications
and marketing information are not obvious, insist that the
manufacturer’s support staff be able to clearly verify that your
requirements are supported. A videowall processor that was
extremely successful on one project may not be the best
choice for the next project. ■
www.extron.com 47
Videowall System Control
Videowalls are among the most complex types of AV systems
to set up and configure. Most of the operational complexity
is within the videowall processor and its many functions,
features, and capabilities. Working with a videowall processor
will be greatly simplified if an intuitive, user-friendly interface
is available for system configuration and creating window
layouts. The more intuitive the interface, the more streamlined
the setup and configuration process will be.
Videowall system designs should include consideration for
the end user interface, in terms of how staff will operate
the videowall. Videowall control should streamline the
user’s workflow. This may be accomplished by providing a
touchpanel with simple button selections for window presets
or input sources, or by tying these functions into control room
system management software.
Basic Control
Small, simple videowall processors can be configured and
operated from a front-panel interface that provides access to
all of its setup and control functions. Some processors can
also be configured through their internal Web server, accessed
by a client Web browser over the network or the Internet.
Control Application Software
Most videowall processors require the use of specialized
application software for setup and configuration. For a
computer-based processor, the application can usually be run
on the unit itself, while for other processors, a computer runs
the software and connects to the processor as a client. See
Figure 3-11.
On-board Control
Monitor
Control Application
DVI
Mouse
Videowall Processor
Keyboard
Videowall Processor
Running Control Application Locally
Figure 3-11. Control application software can run on the videowall processor, or a computer connected as a client.
­48 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
The application software aids in navigating through the many
functions and features for videowall processing. It includes a
GUI and usually groups controls and functions into a logical
organization of essential tasks, such as configuring the inputs
for incoming source signal formats, defining the videowall
configuration and setting up the displays, and creating and
saving window layouts. The application software includes
a virtual canvas that lets you visualize the window layout as
it is being created and drag-and-drop windows onto or off
the canvas.
Remote System Control
Videowall processors can be controlled using the application
software, or a control system through the RS-232 or Ethernet
control ports.
While the application software can be used for system
control, the user interface usually includes far more functions
and options than necessary for a staff member or system
operator, who often lacks detailed technical knowledge of
the system. Rather than making the application software
available to end users, it is usually preferred to create a
simplified control interface with a series of button selections,
so a user only needs to control the most common or
essential functions on a videowall – selecting an input source
or a pre-programmed window preset. This can be provided
through a custom GUI from a touchpanel or custom software
interface created by the application software or other third-
party software managing control over other processes. See
Figure 3-12.
Client Application
Server Application
Ethernet
OR
Videowall Processor
Desktop PC
Videowall Processor
Controlled from Client Application Running on a PC
 Videowall Processor Touchpanel Touchpanel
Controller

Ethernet
Control VLAN Ethernet

Remote Control with Videowall Processor

Running Control Application Locally

Figure 3-12. A user can access select videowall controls through a touchpanel for a control system, or an application GUI on a
computer.

Videowall Processor
Large Facility Control
Many large facilities, such as command and control rooms
require that management of all communications including AV
be centrally integrated into a single control system. This allows
multiple room operations to be performed from a common
Desktop PCproduce a clean execution of these layout changes.
GUI. The system can be programmed to incorporate videowall
window layout and input source selection, with buttons
Control VLAN
provided in the user interface alongside other communications
functions. Videowall-specific controls may also be provided
Remote Control with Videowall
separately on a touchpanel for an AV control system.
Running Control Application on Dedicated PC
On-Demand vs. Show Control
For most videowalls in working environments such as
presentation rooms and control rooms, simple user controls
will suffice for staff or a system operator to manage the
display. However, entertainment-oriented applications call for
elaborately timed, dynamic presentations, which may require
a system operator to be trained in the use of show control
software that provides access to a wide, free-flowing set of
time-based effects. The ideal control method will depend on
the environment and application requirements defined by the
end user.
Control Application
Touchpanel Touchpanel
Live entertainment Controller
applications may require more flexible on-
demand control, such as changing source window size and
position. A control system that allows multiple actions to be
stored and released as a single event may be necessary to
Ethernet Show Control
Ethernet
Videowalls used in retail stores, museums, or other public
Ethernet
spaces often include specially created productions that
include theProcessor
presentation of looped video content, with creative
visual effects timed to video edit points or events in the
content. To coordinate videowall actions with the content,
an audible SMPTE or EBU timecode signal is recorded onto
one of the audio tracks for the content. This is supplied to a
computer running a show control application to provide the
time reference for initiating commands, as well as a reference
for actions on other show control devices. The show control
computer releases control commands to the videowall
processor or its control computer, triggered by the incoming
timecode signal. ■

On-Demand Control
In work environments or live entertainment applications,
changes to the videowall typically are triggered “on-the-fly”
by an operator or end user. Recalling window presets and
changing source window content are the most frequent
actions performed on the videowall for work environments.
End users may state they want the ability to place any image
anywhere, and control “everything,” but are often unaware of
exactly how complex this can make system management.
In most cases, five to ten pre-defined window layouts,
Extron TouchLink® Pro touchpanels can be used to
plus the ability to change source window inputs, provides provide a simple user interface to manage selection
of videowall display layouts and sources.
sufficient flexibility.
www.extron.com 49
Additional Videowall System Elements
Due to their large size, videowalls may be the focal point of a
room, but they are often just one element of a larger system.
System control, signal distribution and extension, audio,
and more all play an important role in managing signals and
sources. When dovetailed, content can be controlled, seen,
and heard.
System Control
A well-designed control system allows a user to effortlessly
manage each element of an AV system. Switcher control,
videowall window layout and source selection, tuner channel
selection, audio control, and room lighting should be
accessible from an intuitive interface that makes controlling
the system as easy, if not easier, than turning on a TV and
watching a movie at home.
SYSTEM CONTROL
Extron TLP Pro 1525TG
Touchpanel
Designing such a system can be as much art as science.
In addition to technical elements that can include managing
device drivers, data strings, and conditional logic to connect
and manipulate devices, there are visual and operational
SWITCHING
Extron XTP II CrossPoint® 1600
Matrix Switcher
­50 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
elements, such as the look and feel of the interface. While the
system may be complex, the user interface should make it
easy to operate. The way to accomplish this is with a logical
workflow, easy-to-identify icons and indicators, quick response
to button presses, and positive feedback indicating when
requests have been initiated and performed.
Switching
Switching systems deliver source signals to videowall
processor inputs, scalers and video processors, standalone
displays, streaming encoders, or other system devices. Matrix
switchers can simultaneously send a single input to multiple
destinations and perform video routing for multi-room facilities.
This allows any input to be sent to any destination. Some
matrix switchers route audio and multiple video signal formats,
providing complete signal management.
A matrix switcher can be a cost-effective videowall source
management solution. It can be used to dynamically route
only the sources to be displayed in the current window
preset, reducing the required number of videowall processor
input channels.
Signal Extension
Very long signal runs are often necessary when equipment
rooms are located at considerable distances from source
devices or display systems. Conventional coaxial or digital
video cable may be sufficient up to about 75 feet (23 m),
but longer runs require signal extenders to ensure signal
integrity. Installation of a transmitter at the source device and
a receiver at the far end device, connected by twisted pair
or fiber optic cable, facilitates very long video, audio, and
control signal runs. A twisted pair extender can provide signal
SIGNAL EXTENSION
Extron DTP3 T 202 & DTP3 R 201
Twisted Pair Transmitter and Receiver
extension up to 330 feet (100 meters) for digital video, while
fiber optic extenders can send signals up to 2 km (6,560
feet) over multimode fiber or up to 30 km (18.75 miles) with
singlemode fiber.

Fiber Interfacing
Fiber optic cabling can be used to transmit video, audio, and
data over extreme distances with zero signal degradation and
complete immunity from outside electrical interference. Signals
sent through fiber are also inherently secure. This is due to
the absence of electrical emissions, making fiber the preferred
choice for government, military, and medical applications.
Fiber technology has become more and more common; it is
the new standard for AV system designers and integrators
creating future-proof AV systems. A longstanding perception
is that fiber is difficult to work with. However, new, affordable,
easy-to-use termination systems make terminating fiber cable
assemblies as easy as crimping a BNC.
Extron offers a wide variety of switching, distribution, and
signal extension products with direct fiber connections. They
are available to designers specifying the most secure, highest
quality signal delivery devices in their systems.
For more information on fiber optic technology, consult the
Extron Fiber Optic Design Guide, available for free download at
www.extron.com/fiberguide.
Audio
While a videowall may support a room’s viewing requirements,
additional signal management may be required to support
audio. A videowall can display many video signals, but
The Extron Fiber Optic Design
Guide provides tutorials on fiber
optic technology and cabling,
and provides practical examples
of fiber system designs.
program audio typically originates from only one of the
displayed sources. The system’s control interface should
allow for the selection of one or more audio sources. Many
matrix switchers that route video can also manage audio
distribution, as can standalone audio switchers.
An audio signal processor with DSP and matrix mixing can
be used for routing and supplemental audio processing.
Functions can include volume, equalization, and mixing
program audio with one or more microphones or other
audio sources. Once a program audio source is selected
and processed, the signal needs to be amplified and sent to
speakers. The size of the amplifiers and the type and number
of speakers needed depend on the application, the size of the
room, and the required sound level.

AUDIO
FIBER INTERFACING
Extron XPA U 1004
Extron FOX3 T 201 & FOX3 SR 201 Audio Amplifier
Fiber Optic Transmitter and Receiver

www.extron.com 51
Additional Videowall System Elements
STREAMING AND RECORDING
Extron SMP 352
Streaming Media Processor
Streaming and Recording
The ability to transport audio, video, and graphics streams
across a data network has revolutionized many signal
distribution applications. Live and pre-recorded content can
now be delivered across greater distances to larger audiences
more efficiently than ever before. By utilizing the infrastructure
provided by LANs, WANs, and public networks, audio, video,
and graphics can be delivered anywhere in the world. These
multimedia streams can be decoded by hardware devices,
videowall processors, computers, and smartphones or tablets.
They can also be captured and stored with recording devices,
allowing for future playback of recorded content for training or
debriefing purposes.
Streaming decoders can be used as a source for videowall
processors. At the outputs of a videowall processor, streaming
encoders can send videowall imagery to a recorder or remote
locations for collaboration among different functional groups
or agencies.
Networks
Once used exclusively for computers, data networks are
now used for other functions such as streaming audio, video,
NETWORKS
Network Switch
­52 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
and control signals for videowalls or other devices in an
AV system. Networks for AV can be standalone entities,
isolated from a larger house network, or integrated within
an organization’s infrastructure. Isolated networks can often
be installed and managed entirely by integrators or third-
party service providers. Collaboration with IT departments is
important when incorporating AV data into a house network.
AV network topology vary, depending on the application
and complexity of the system. For example, an unmanaged,
eight-port switch is sufficient for a simple one-room control
system, while building-wide distribution of multicast video
streams may require several linked, programmable switches
to manage data flow.
Keyboard and Mouse Extension and Switching
When an operator must have control over several remote
workstations, or needs keyboard and mouse control of
a computer from a great distance, USB switchers and
extenders provide the solution. Extron offers an expansive
family of USB extension and distribution products. USB
switchers allow an operator to use a single keyboard, mouse,
or other USB peripheral device to control multiple computers.
More complex control can be realized with USB matrix
switchers, which allow the operator to assign multiple USB
peripheral devices to a selection of computers.
Extron USB extenders enable remote operation of USB
peripherals at distances much greater than the 15 feet
(4.5 meters) designated by the USB specification. Twisted
pair USB extenders enable remote operation of USB
peripheral devices at distances of up to 450 feet (135
meters), while fiber optic USB extenders support distances
up to 10 km (6.25 miles). ■
KEYBOARD / MOUSE
EXTENSION AND SWITCHING
Extron SW4 USB Plus
USB Switcher
 Videowall System Designs
While videowalls are best known for their ability to create “big
pictures,” their uses and applications vary widely. Public spaces
and workspaces benefit from the flexibility videowall processors
provide with their ability to upscale, downscale, and tile images.
Systems incorporating videowall processors include a variety of
source devices, including cameras, workstation computers, and
even streamed content delivered over an IP network. Display
devices may include projection cubes, flat-panel displays, LED
arrays, or 4K projectors.
The following videowall designs highlight the diverse applications
for videowalls, from a small videowall in a utility operations center,
to a medium-sized videowall as the centerpiece of a museum
exhibit, to a large videowall supporting a traffic management
center. The System Overview and Room Needs Assessment
sections establish how these videowalls are used. Detailed
application drawings clearly depict signal flow and the types of
sources and displays utilized.

Utility Operations Center Corporate Presentation Auditorium Command Center

Museum Exhibit Simulation Debriefing Theater Traffic Management Center

University Student Center Atrium Corporate Lobby and Collaborative Theater Educational Medical Facility
Utility Operations Center

System Design Solution

Videowall Processing
A Quantum Ultra Connect 128 videowall processor drives the eight
screens of the 2x4 videowall. It enables the display of up to eight
sources simultaneously, in any configuration.

Source Connectivity
The 16 computers are connected to an XTP II CrossPoint 3200
modular HDMI matrix switcher, configured with 16 inputs and
32 outputs.

Display Systems
Eight 60" (152 cm) 1080p LCD flat panels provide an overall display
resolution of 7680x2160 for the 2x4 videowall. Each individual
workstation has four 1080p LCD displays.

Switching and Signal Management

The XTP II CrossPoint 3200 outputs feed the Quantum Ultra Connect
Overview 128 inputs and the workstation displays. Full matrix switching
This utility control room tracks operations monitored through 16 capability enables any window on the videowall and any workstation
personal computers. Each of the four workstations with designated monitor to display any data source. EDID Minder® ensures that
areas of responsibility are equipped with four displays, with the sources power up properly and reliably output content for display.
control room supervisor able to determine what is monitored at each The system is expandable to accommodate up to 16 additional
station. A central 2x4 videowall in the main control room provides the data sources.
status of all critical processes being tracked. A touchpanel allows the
supervisor to choose the content displayed on the videowall and what Network
each operator views. The network includes a Layer 2 Ethernet switch for the Quantum Ultra
Connect 128 videowall processor, XTP II CrossPoint matrix switcher,
Room Needs Assessment TouchLink Pro touchpanel, and IP Link Pro control processor.
Staffing Four technicians, one for each of the four
workstations, analyze data on the four local
System Control
displays at each workstation. The control room An Extron TLP Pro 1025T 10" (25‑cm) TouchLink Pro touchpanel
supervisor selects the data sources to be and an Extron IPCP Pro 250 IP Link Pro control processor are used
displayed on the videowall, and also designates to control the Quantum Ultra Connect 128 processor and the XTP II
the processes to be monitored at each CrossPoint 3200 matrix switcher. The touchpanel provides a selection
workstation. of preset videowall configurations. It also can be used to designate
Display A central videowall consists of eight 60" any data source to be monitored at any workstation display.
Requirements (152 cm) 1920x1080 flat-panel displays
arranged in a 2x4 configuration. Additionally,
each workstation is equipped with four
monitors.
Source Types Sixteen computers with HDMI outputs track
and control the processes monitored in the
control room.
System Control One touchpanel interface for selection of
window layout presets, source selection for
each preset, and designating data to be
tracked at each workstation.
Special The system must be expandable to allow
Requirements additional inputs to accommodate anticipated
future growth.

­54 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

 COM 1 COM 2 DIGITAL I/O
IPCP PRO 250

Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G

POWER VOL RELAYS eBUS IR/S

12V
--A MAX V C G 1 2 C +V +S -S G

PWR OUT = 6W S G LAN

Extron
IPCP Pro 250
IP Link Pro
Control Processor

Ethernet

Ethernet
Extron
TLP Pro 1025T Flat Panel Displays
10" Tabletop HDMI HDMI
TouchLink Pro
Touchpanel
QUANTUM ULTRA CONNECT INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI Extron
TCP/IP Quantum Ultra Connect 128

SLOT 1
Network
4K Videowall Processor
INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI

SLOT 2
INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI

SLOT 3
OUTPUTS QUANTUM OUT4HDMI
100-240V ~ --A MAX 50-60 Hz

SLOT 4
POWER SYSTEM REMOTE LAN

1
A B
2
RS-232 OUTPUTS QUANTUM OUT4HDMI
CONFIG

SLOT 5
3

HDMI OUT USB Tx Rx G

Ethernet DISCONNECT POWER

CORD BEFORE
SERVICING

Ethernet

Workstation PCs (Typical 4 places) HDMI HDMI

Workstation Displays (Typical 4 places)

HDMI Equipped
PC
1 2 3 4
WiFi

CATx Cable
CATx Cable HDMI
HDMI
SIG LINK
POWER INPUTS
AUDIO OVER XTP

Flat Panel Display

12V AUDIO
0.7A MAX ON L R RS-232 IR RESET

XTP T HD 4K OFF
HDMI LOOP THRU + − + − Tx Rx G Tx Rx XTP OUT SIG LINK
LAN POWER OVER XTP OUTPUTS RELAYS REMOTE
12V AUDIO AUDIO
--A MAX RS-232 IR ON L R 1 2 RS-232
RESET

Extron
OFF
XTP IN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI S/PDIF Tx Rx G
LAN

XTP T HD 4K Extron
4K HDMI Transmitter XTP SR HD 4K
4K HDMI Scaling
HDMI Equipped Receiver
PC
1 2 3 4
WiFi

CATx Cable CATx Cable HDMI

HDMI
POWER
12V
0.7A MAX
INPUTS
AUDIO
ON
AUDIO
L R
OVER XTP
RS-232 IR
SIG LINK

RESET INPUTS
POWER
12V
--A MAX
SIG LINK
OVER XTP
RS-232 IR
AUDIO
ON L
AUDIO
R
OUTPUTS RELAYS
1 2
REMOTE
RS-232
RESET
Flat Panel Display
2 3 4 5
OFF

1 6 7
XTP T HD 4K

8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
HDMI LOOP THRU + − + − Tx Rx G Tx Rx XTP OUT OFF
LAN XTP IN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI S/PDIF Tx Rx G
LAN

Extron Extron
XTP T HD 4K 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 XTP SR HD 4K
4K HDMI Transmitter 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
4K HDMI Scaling
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 CONTROL I/O

ENTER PRESET VIEW ESC VIDEO AUDIO

Receiver
HDMI Equipped 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 CONFIG

PC
1 3
1 2 3 4

OUTPUTS 2 4
WiFi

POWER

CATx Cable CATx Cable HDMI

HDMI
POWER
12V
0.7A MAX
INPUTS
AUDIO
ON
AUDIO
L R
OVER XTP
RS-232 IR
SIG LINK

RESET
POWER
12V
SIG LINK
OVER XTP
RS-232 IR
AUDIO AUDIO
OUTPUTS RELAYS REMOTE
Flat Panel Display
--A MAX ON L R 1 2 RS-232
RESET

XTP T HD 4K OFF
HDMI LOOP THRU + − + − Tx Rx G Tx Rx XTP OUT OFF
LAN XTP IN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI S/PDIF Tx Rx G
LAN

Extron Extron
XTP T HD 4K XTP SR HD 4K
4K HDMI Transmitter 4K HDMI Scaling
Receiver
HDMI Equipped
PC
1 2 3 4
WiFi

CATx Cable XTP CrossPoint 3200 CATx Cable HDMI

HDMI XTP SERIES DIGITAL MATRIX SWITCHER

POWER
12V
INPUTS
AUDIO AUDIO OVER XTP
SIG LINK
POWER
SIG LINK
OVER XTP OUTPUTS RELAYS REMOTE Flat Panel Display
Extron
RS-232 IR 12V AUDIO AUDIO
0.7A MAX ON L R RESET
--A MAX RS-232 IR 1 2 RS-232
ON L R
RESET

XTP T HD 4K OFF
HDMI LOOP THRU + − + − Tx Rx G Tx Rx XTP OUT OFF
LAN XTP IN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI S/PDIF Tx Rx G
LAN

Extron XTP II CrossPoint 3200 Extron

XTP T HD 4K Modular Digital Matrix Switcher XTP SR HD 4K
4K HDMI Transmitter 4K HDMI Scaling
Receiver

www.extron.com 55
Corporate Presentation Auditorium
Overview
A corporate auditorium provides a venue for large companies to hold
employee gatherings or shareholder meetings. With an advanced
video display system, media-rich presentations can convey corporate
information, product introductions, and data for employee meetings.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing A single operator at a podium to deliver
presentations. AV staff members to configure
and load system content for special events.
Display An attractive, seamless display eight feet
Requirements high by 25 feet wide, with the ability to
simultaneously display from one to eight
sources.
Source Types A computer providing high resolution 4K
corporate content, a 4K media player
providing pre-produced corporate and
product information, a Blu-ray player providing
high-definition corporate videos, a satellite
receiver providing high-definition broadcast
programming, a document camera for
presenting hard-copy information, a high-
definition video camera for presenting live
content, and connections for a laptop and a
mobile device.
System Control A simple touchpanel controller for selection of
window layout presets and source selection
within each preset, as well as control of the
media player.
Special Ease of use is a primary concern, as the
Requirements system will often be controlled by non-technical
personnel.
­56 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
A Quantum Ultra 305 Videowall Processor delivers a 4K HDMI
signal to each of the auditorium’s projectors. The outputs provide
redundant pixels for the overlapped region required by the projectors
to facilitate edge-blending. All 4K and high definition sources can be
displayed simultaneously, at any size and at any position, across the
seamless display.
Source Connectivity
A Quantum Ultra HDMI input card accepts a 4K signal from a desktop
computer and a media player. A document camera, Blu-ray player,
satellite receiver, and camera provide HD video content, connecting
to a second HDMI input card. A third HDMI input card accepts signals
from a laptop and a mobile device.
Display Systems
A pair of 4K projectors configured for rear projection provide an overall
display resolution of 6912 pixels by 2160 pixels on a 25-foot wide by
eight-foot tall screen.
Switching and Signal Management
All source switching is managed internally by the Quantum Ultra
videowall processor.
Network
The network includes a simple Layer 2 Ethernet switch for
communication between the Quantum Ultra videowall processor,
the 4K media player, and the TouchLink Pro touchpanel and
IP Link Pro processor.
System Control
An Extron TLP Pro 1025T 10‑inch (25 cm) TouchLink Pro touchpanel
and an Extron IPCP Pro 250 control processor send Ethernet control
messages to the Quantum Ultra videowall processor and the 4K
media player. The touchpanel provides a simple, easy-to-navigate
interface, allowing operators to easily select any of ten videowall
presets, as well as assign sources to windows.
 Spinel

RUBY Sapphire Andesine Emerald

RUBY RUBY Sapphire Sapphire Andesine Andesine Emerald Emerald

Control HDCP-Complaint HDCP-Complaint

VLAN 4K Projector 4K Projector

HDMI HDMI
Ethernet
Ethernet
Extron Laptop

TLP Pro 1025T QUANTUM ULTRA 305

INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI

SLOT 1
10" Tabletop INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI

SLOT 2
TouchLink Pro
SLOT 2
Touchpanel
INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI
SLOT 3
100-240V ~ --A MAX 50-60 Hz

OUTPUTS QUANTUM OUT4HDMI

SLOT 4

POWER SYSTEM REMOTE LAN

A B

RS-232
CONFIG
SLOT 5

Tx Rx G

DISCONNECT
POWER
CORD BEFORE
SERVICING

Extron
Quantum Ultra 305
Ultra-high Bandwidth
4K Videowall Processor

HDMI HDMI
1

Extron COM 1 COM 2 DIGITAL I/O

IPCP PRO 250 4K Media Player
IPCP Pro 250
Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G

POWER VOL RELAYS eBUS IR/S

12V
--A MAX V C G 1 2 C +V +S -S G

IP Link Pro
PWR OUT = 6W S G LAN

Control Processor
WiFi 1 2 3 4

Document Camera

Blu-ray Player
4K Desktop PC
Satellite Receiver
PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV

or iPhone
Laptop
Camera
HDMI Adapter
iPad

www.extron.com 57
Command Center
Overview
Command centers aggregate a wide variety of video and data for
monitoring and analysis. In order to efficiently make critical decisions,
staff members need to analyze various sources in close proximity to
each other and in a variety of layouts. The solution requires that any
of the video and data sources be presented on a large display, in a
variety of easily selectable window layouts.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing Numerous information specialists monitor one
or more video or data sources. A shift manager
periodically changes information as needed on
the large, centralized display.
Display A multi-screen videowall, occupying an area
Requirements roughly 4.5 feet high by 16 feet wide (1.4 m
by 4.9 m), presents at least two 4K sources
at native resolution plus additional overlayed
computer and video sources.
Source Types Sources include four remote computers
displaying low-motion map and data content,
eight computers displaying visualizations with
moderate to high motion, and two 4K/60
workstations displaying animated map content.
Three satellite receivers provide news content,
and a media player is used for internally
developed media.
System Control A simple touchpanel interface enables selection
of window layout presets and source selection
for each preset.
Special Ease of use and quick response to layout and
Requirements source changes is mandatory for this mission-
critical environment.
­58 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
An Extron Quantum Ultra II 610 Videowall Processor is configured
with two Quantum OUT4HDMI 4K PLUS output cards for a total
of eight 1080p HDMI outputs. It delivers signals to the eight
display devices in the videowall. The processor enables display of
any combination or all 18 physical and networked input sources
simultaneously on the videowall.
Source Connectivity
The Quantum Ultra II utilizes four Quantum IN4HDMI input cards and
one Quantum IN4HDMI 4K PLUS input card to receive 14 physical
HDMI inputs. Three satellite receivers and a media player connect to
the first Quantum IN4HDMI input card. Eight workstation computers
connected to the input cards in slots 2 and 3 display high-motion
content. Two workstation computers feed animated map content up
to 4K/60 resolutions to the Quantum IN4HDMI 4K PLUS input card
in slot 4. Four computers displaying low-motion content utilize VNC
servers to stream their desktops onto the network and are decoded
by the videowall processor’s internal VNC client.
Display Systems
Eight HDCP-compliant 1080p displays provide an overall resolution of
7680x2160, in a space 192" wide by 54" tall (4.9 m by 1.4 m).
Switching and Signal Management
All source switching is managed internally by the Quantum Ultra II
videowall processor. Quantum OUT4HDMI 4K PLUS cards provide an
upgrade path if 4K display devices are required at a future date.
Network
A dedicated VLAN on a Layer 3 Ethernet switch supports the
four remote VNC workstations. A separate VLAN is used for the
control network, containing the Quantum Ultra II and control
system components.
System Control
An Extron TLP Pro 1025T 10" (25 cm) TouchLink Pro Touchpanel
and an Extron IPCP Pro 250 control processor send Ethernet
control messages to the Quantum Ultra II videowall processor. The
user-friendly interface allows the shift manager to easily select the
content displayed on the videowall. Presentations vary from a few
map sources to more complex layouts containing all available map,
workstation, and news content.
 Extron
Quantum Ultra II 610 1080p HDMI 1080p HDMI
Ultra-high Bandwidth
4K/60 Videowall Processor
QUANTUM ULTRA II 610
INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI

SLOT 1
INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI

SLOT 2
INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI

SLOT 3

INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI 4K PLUS

1 2 3 4
SLOT 4

OUTPUTS QUANTUM OUT4HDMI 4K PLUS

1 2 3 4
SLOT 5

DISCONNECT POWER
CORD BEFORE
SERVICING OUTPUTS QUANTUM OUT4HDMI 4K PLUS
1 2 3 4
100-240V~16.0A MAX 50-60 Hz 100-240V~16.0A MAX 50-60 Hz

SLOT 6
PRIMARY POWER

SLOT 7
REDUNTANT POWER

SLOT 8
SLOT 9

POWER SYSTEM REMOTE LAN

1
A B
SLOT 10

2
RS-232
CONFIG
3

HDMI OUT USB Tx Rx G

Extron
TLP Pro 1025T
Ethernet 10" Tabletop
Ethernet TouchLink Pro
HDMI HDMI Control Touchpanel
LAN

Ethernet
COM 1 COM 2 DIGITAL I/O
IPCP PRO 250
Extron
IPCP Pro 250
Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G

POWER VOL RELAYS eBUS IR/S

12V

Ethernet
--A MAX V C G 1 2 C +V +S -S G

Media IP Link Pro Control Processor

PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD PWR OUT = 6W S G LAN
SELECT

VLAN
DIRECTV

Satellite Receiver
PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT

Ethernet Ethernet
DIRECTV

Satellite Receiver
WiFi 1 2 3 4 WiFi 1 2 3 4

PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV

Satellite Receiver

Remote Workstation PC Remote Workstation PC

1

Media Player with VNC with VNC

WiFi 1 2 3 4 WiFi 1 2 3 4

Remote Workstation PC Remote Workstation PC

with VNC with VNC

4K/60 Map Server WiFi 1 2 3 4 WiFi 1 2 3 4 WiFi 1 2 3 4 WiFi 1 2 3 4

Workstation PC Workstation PC Workstation PC Workstation PC

4K/60 Map Server WiFi 1 2 3 4 WiFi 1 2 3 4 WiFi 1 2 3 4 WiFi 1 2 3 4

Workstation PC Workstation PC Workstation PC Workstation PC

www.extron.com 59
Museum Exhibit
Overview
Museums provide an environment for exhibiting, preserving, and
storing objects of historical, scientific, artistic, or cultural interest to
the general public. In addition to static displays, modern museums
use dynamic multi-screen installations to bring stories to life and keep
guests actively engaged. A well-designed videowall system is ideal for
creating an interactive, operator-free exhibit that enhances the overall
visitor experience.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing Operation of the videowall is performed by the
patrons of the museum. Museum creative staff
updates content sourced from the 4K media
players, computers, and the still images stored
on the Quantum Ultra II for special events or
exhibit updates.
Display A large video display, with a look reminiscent of
Requirements a painting hung on a wall.
Source Types A pair of 4K media players provide animated
backgrounds for still artwork images with
themes such as music, landscapes, and
wildlife. Two 4K computers deliver additional
graphics and museum information.
System Control A simple touchpanel controller for selection of
the displayed exhibit theme.
Special Ease of use is a primary concern, as the
Requirements system is designed to be operated by museum
patrons. The equipment cabinet housing the
processing equipment is 200 feet (60 meters)
away from the displays, so care must be taken
to maintain signal integrity over this distance.
­60 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
A Quantum Ultra II 305 Videowall Processor outputs six 4K signals
to the displays. Artwork images stored within the processor are
framed with internally generated colored borders and drop-shadows.
The artwork is displayed on top of abstract, animated backgrounds
sourced from a pair of 4K media players.
Source Connectivity
A Quantum IN4HDMI 4K PLUS input card mounted in one of the
Quantum Ultra II frame’s five slots accepts 4K/60 signals from two
media players and a pair of workstation computers.
Display Systems
Six portrait-oriented displays comprise the four-foot high by 13.5 foot
wide videowall, with a total resolution of 12,960x3840.
Switching and Signal Management
All source switching is managed internally by the Quantum Ultra II
videowall processor.
Audio
Embedded audio from the media players is switched and routed to
the first HDMI output of the Quantum Ultra II. It is then extracted by
the HAE 100 4K PLUS and fed into the sound system. The HDMI
signal is then routed to the first video display.
Network
The network includes a simple Layer 2 Ethernet switch for
communication between the Quantum Ultra II videowall processor, the
source equipment, and the control system.
System Control
An Extron TLP Pro 1025T 10" (25 cm) TouchLink Pro Touchpanel
and an Extron IPCP Pro 250 Control Processor send Ethernet
control messages to the videowall processor, 4K media player, and 4K
computers. The touchpanel provides an easy-to-navigate interface,
allowing patrons to select from a variety of artwork themes.
 HDMI HDMI

INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI 4K PLUS

QUANTUM ULTRA II 305 4
1 2 3

SLOT 1
INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI 4K PLUS

SLOT 2
1 2 3 4

INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI 4K PLUS

SLOT 3
1 2 3 4
100-240V ~ 5.0A MAX 50-60 Hz

SLOT 4
POWER SYSTEM REMOTE LAN

1
A B
2
RS-232
CONFIG
SLOT 5

HDMI OUT USB Tx Rx G

DISCONNECT POWER
CORD BEFORE
SERVICING

Extron
Quantum Ultra II 305
Ultra-high Bandwidth
4K/60 Videowall Processor

Extron
SM 26
HDMI
Speakers
HDMI HDMI Extron Extron

Audio
POWER
12V
--A MAX
S/PDIF
L
ANALOG
R
Audio POWER AMPLIFIERS

OVER
TEMP 1 2
LIMITER/PROTECT
INPUT OUTPUT AUDIO OUTPUTS
SIGNAL
XPA U 1002 SERIES

Extron
HAE 100 4K Plus Extron
HDMI Audio XPA U 1002
De-Embedder Power Amplifier

Extron
TLP Pro 1025T
Ethernet Ethernet 10" Tabletop
TouchLink Pro
Control Touchpanel
4K Media Player LAN

Ethernet Ethernet
4K Media Player
Extron
COM 1 COM 2 DIGITAL I/O
IPCP PRO 250

Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G

IPCP Pro 250

POWER VOL RELAYS eBUS IR/S
12V
1A MAX V C G 1 2 C +V +S -S G

PWR OUT = 6W S G LAN

IP Link Control
MODEL 80

2
Processor

FLAT PANEL

4K PC
MODEL 80

FLAT PANEL

4K PC

www.extron.com 61
Simulation Debriefing Theater
Overview
Simulation systems provide land, sea, and air environments for virtual
training missions of military personnel. Team members interact with
one another during these missions run by a Presentation Manager.
The presentation manager controls the session, triggering the
engagements and challenges team members encounter. Large video
display systems present live or prerecorded simulation sessions that
enable side-by-side comparisons of each participant’s actions. This
allows for critical mission analysis, both in real-time by the session
manager and by the participants themselves when replayed from an
archiving system.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing A presentation manager to run simulations
and personnel to be trained during simulated
missions.
Display An edge-butted videowall, occupying an
Requirements approximate area of six feet high by 25 feet
wide (1.8 meters by 7.6 meters). It must be
capable of displaying at least 12 sources at
various sizes and locations.
Source Types Three simulation systems with four image
generators, each providing one high-resolution
out-of-the-window - OTW view and three
medium resolution instrument panels.
System Control A simple touchpanel interface for selecting
window layout presets. The touchpanel is
also used for starting, stopping, and replaying
missions recorded by the archiving system.
System control should be over Ethernet.
Special Shift managers need to be able to identify the
Requirements source of each window by applying colored
borders.
­62 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
Three MGP 641 multi-window processors drive the three displays in
the videowall. They provide the capability to display any or all input
sources simultaneously.
Source Connectivity
Three simulation systems drive similar signal processing paths for
each channel of the three-screen videowall. For each simulator, an
OTW view connects via HDMI to an Extron MGP 641. Three image
generators producing instrument data also connect to the MGP 641
over HDMI. The output of the MGP 641 connects to an Extron
VNE 250 IP encoder, which feeds one projector of the videowall via
the HDMI loop through. An Extron VND 250 IP decoder connects to
a secondary input on the projector.
The three VNC 250 encoders, three VND 250 decoders, Extron
VNM Recorder, and an Extron VNM EC 201 connect to the media
network. The VNM Recorder is used to archive sessions and can
replay content on the videowall. The VNM EC 201 is used to control
and manage the VNM Recorder and the VN-Matrix encoders
and decoders.
Display Systems
Three WUXGA rear projectors arranged in a 1x3 edge-butted
configuration provide an overall display resolution of 5760 pixels by
1200 pixels in a space 29 feet wide by six feet tall (8.8 meters by
1.8 meters).
Switching and Signal Management
All source switching and windowing is managed internally by the
MGP 641 processors.
Network
The network for the VN-Matrix archiving system includes a Layer 3
Ethernet switch. To ensure efficient performance, it is configured to
support multicast traffic and IGMP snooping. A VLAN supports the
VN Matrix 250 encoders and decoders, VNM Enterprise Controller,
and VNM Recorder. The same VLAN facilitates the control data
for the MGP 641 processors, projectors, and the streaming and
recording system.
System Control
For system control, an Extron TLP Pro 1220TG 12" (30 cm)
TouchLink Pro touchpanel and an Extron IPCP Pro 250 IP Link Pro
control processor interface via Ethernet with the MGP 641 processors
and the VNM EC 201. The touchpanel provides access to multiple
window layout presets and source selection within each preset. The
touchpanel can also be used to start or stop archiving and replay
saved missions on the videowall.
 Edge-Blending Edge-Blending Edge-Blending
Projector Projector Projector

HDMI

HDMI HDMI HDMI

LAN 1 RETURN AUDIO AUDIO LAN 1 RETURN AUDIO AUDIO LAN 1 RETURN AUDIO AUDIO
CONTROL

CONTROL

CONTROL
OUTPUT

OUTPUT

OUTPUT
INPUT

INPUT

INPUT
OUTPUT OUTPUT OUTPUT
L R L R L R L R L R L R
POWER POWER POWER
12V 1 12V 1 12V 1
STREAMING

STREAMING

STREAMING
USB

USB

USB
--A MAX Tx Rx G Tx Rx NO G IN G OUT --A MAX Tx Rx G Tx Rx NO G IN G OUT --A MAX Tx Rx G Tx Rx NO G IN G OUT
RESET RESET RESET
COMS

COMS

COMS
2 2 2
I/O

I/O

I/O
ACT/

ACT/

ACT/
LINK

LINK

LINK
LAN 2 HDMI PASS THRU CONTROL ALARM GENLOCK
LAN 2 HDMI PASS THRU CONTROL ALARM GENLOCK
LAN 2 HDMI PASS THRU CONTROL ALARM GENLOCK

Extron Extron Extron

VND 250 VND 250 VND 250
VN-Matrix RGB VN-Matrix RGB VN-Matrix RGB
/HDMI over IP /HDMI over IP /HDMI over IP

Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet

Layer 3 Network Switch

Ethernet

Ethernet Extron
VNM Recorder
VN-Matrix Recoder

Monday, December 16, 2013 7:04 AM

Contacts Sources 800.633.9876

Name + -
Andrew Key Menu Delete

Beth 1 2
ABC
3
DEF

Charlie Video Window

4
GHI
5 JKL MNO
6
David
Ervin
7
PQRS
8 TUV WXYZ
9
Frank 0
Greg End
Call
Call

Full
Harold Screen
Privacy

Ethernet Kevin
Mike
Andrew
(800) 633 - 9876
Enter Zoom
In

Zoom
Out
Near
End

Far
End
Camera Display
123

Presets

Extron
TLP Pro 1220TG
290
280
330
320
310
300

270
260
250
0
350
340

240
10 2030 4050607080

180
230220210200190
160
170
90
100
110
120
130
140
150

12" Tabletop TouchLink Pro

HDMI Touchpanel
30 40 50
10 20 60
0 7080
350
340 90
330 100
320 110
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160

HDMI
260 170
250 180
240230
220210200190
30 40 50
10 20 60
0 7080
350
340 90
330 100
320 110
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240230
220210200190

IPCP PRO 250

HDMI RTS
COM

eBUS IR/S I/O RELAYS

1000
CTS
S LIMIT 1 2 1
R IR LINK
Tx

Rx ACT
OVER 1 2 3 4 2

Extron
100-240V~ --A MAX BACKGROUND OUTPUTS (DTP2/XTP/HDBT) USB AUDIO OUT
INPUT LOOP
LAN 1 INPUT 2 AUDIO RETURN AUDIO
CONTROL

THRU
OUTPUT

1B
MGP 641
INPUTS

INPUT 1

IPCP Pro 250

DTP SIG LINK LAN L R
1 2 3 4 1A POWER OVER TP 1 RESET USB RGB L R L R
REMOTE POWER
12V
HDMI
STREAMING

DTP2 IR RS-232 --A MAX

RESET Tx Rx G Tx Rx NO G IN G OUT
COMS

2
I/O

DTP
ACT/
LINK

LAN 2 PC LOOP THRU LOOP THRU PASS THRU CONTROL ALARM TTL
HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI OUT Tx Rx G

IP Link Pro Control

Tx Rx G
50 – 60 Hz

Extron Processor
MGP 641 Extron
HDMI
4K/60 HDMI Multi-Window VNE 250
Processor VN-Matrix RGB CONFIG
PWR LAN A

/HDMI over IP
SSD LAN B
VNM EC 201
VNM Enterprise Controller

Extron
10 2030 4050607080
0
350
340 90
330 100
320 110
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230220210200190

HDMI
30 40 50
10 20 60
0 7080
350
340 90
330 100
320 110
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240230
220210200190
30 40 50
10 20 60
0 7080
350
340 90
330

VNM EC 201
100
320 110
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240230
220210200190

Enterprise Controller for

HDMI
VN-Matrix Systems

100-240V~ --A MAX BACKGROUND OUTPUTS (DTP2/XTP/HDBT) USB AUDIO OUT

INPUT INPUT 2 LOOP AUDIO RETURN AUDIO
LAN 1
OUTPUT

THRU
CONTROL

1B INPUT 1
MGP 641
INPUTS

DTP SIG LINK LAN L R L R L R

POWER RGB
1 2 3 4 1A OVER TP 1 RESET USB
REMOTE POWER
12V HDMI NO G IN G OUT
Tx Rx G Tx Rx
STREAMING

DTP2 IR RS-232 --A MAX RESET

COMS

I/O

2
DTP
ACT/
LINK

ALARM TTL
PC LOOP THRU LOOP THRU PASS THRU CONTROL

Tx Rx G LAN 2
HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI OUT Tx Rx G
50 – 60 Hz

Extron Extron
MGP 641 HDMI VNE 250
4K/60 HDMI Multi-Window VN-Matrix RGB
Processor /HDMI over IP
10 2030 4050607080
0
350
340 90
330 100
320 110
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230220210200190

HDMI
30 40 50
10 20 60
0 7080
350
340 90
330 100
320 110
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240230
220210200190
30 40 50
10 20 60
0 7080
350
340 90
330 100
320 110
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240230
220210200190

Extron
VNE 250
HDMI VN-Matrix RGB
/HDMI over IP
100-240V~ --A MAX BACKGROUND
INPUT
OUTPUTS (DTP2/XTP/HDBT) USB AUDIO OUT
LAN 1
INPUT 2 LOOP AUDIO RETURN AUDIO
HDMI
OUTPUT

THRU
CONTROL

INPUT 1
1B
MGP 641
INPUTS

DTP SIG LINK LAN L R L R L R

RGB
1 2 3 4 1A POWER OVER TP 1 RESET POWER USB
REMOTE 12V HDMI Tx Rx G Tx Rx NO G IN G OUT
STREAMING

--A MAX RESET

DTP2 IR RS-232
COMS

I/O

2
ACT/
LINK

DTP LOOP THRU PASS THRU CONTROL ALARM TTL

LAN 2 PC LOOP THRU
HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI OUT Tx Rx G Tx Rx G
50 – 60 Hz

Extron
MGP 641 HDMI
4K/60 HDMI Multi-Window
Processor

www.extron.com 63
Traffic Management Center
Overview
Traffic Management Centers consolidate information from traffic
cameras and graphic applications to monitor and manage traffic flow.
Operators use local monitors to view maps and traffic status. A large
display presents video from any of the region’s traffic cameras to be
viewed as either a thumbnail or large image, while simultaneously
displaying specialized high-resolution graphic sources.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing Numerous operators monitor and manage
traffic data on local displays. A shift manager
and operators select which maps, traffic data,
and camera feeds are highlighted on the large,
centralized display.
Display A multi-screen videowall, occupying an area
Requirements 240" (610 cm) wide by 70” (178 cm) high,
presents 50 to 60 traffic camera feeds and
graphical maps
Source Types Over 100 video streams from IP traffic cameras,
four 4K satellite receivers presenting televised
sources, and two computers displaying high-
resolution graphical map and traffic data
System Control Multiple touchpanel controllers allowing
simultaneous window layout preset selection
and source selection within each preset.
Special The ability for the operators to highlight camera
Requirements feeds by applying colored borders and titles to
source windows
­64 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
A pair of Quantum Ultra 610 Videowall Processors are linked with
Quantum Ultra Expansion IN and OUT cards, creating one cohesive
system. Eight HDMI outputs deliver signals to the display devices,
presenting 64 camera feeds, two computer sources, and four satellite
feeds in source windows on the videowall. Colored borders and text
titling can be applied to each displayed window.
Input Source Connectivity
The IP traffic camera feeds and Quantum IN SMD 100 cards connect
to a dedicated media LAN. Each input card can decode up to 16
video streams. The 4K satellite receivers connect to a pair of Quantum
IN4HDMI cards, and are used to present broadcast content. Two
workstation computers connected to a Quantum IN4HDMI input card
present map and traffic data.
Display Systems
Eight 70" (178 cm) 1920x1080 rear-projection displays provide an
overall resolution of 7680x2160 in a space that is 240" (610 cm) wide
by 70" (178 cm) tall. Switching and Signal Management All source
switching and IP stream management is performed internally by the
Quantum Ultra videowall processors.
Control Network
A dedicated VLAN on the house network switch is used for the control
network, containing the Quantum Ultra processors and control system
components.
System Control
An Extron TLP Pro 1025T 10" (25 cm) TouchLink Pro Touchpanel
and an Extron IPL Pro S1 control processor send Ethernet control
messages to the Quantum Ultra videowall processors. The shift
manager uses the touchpanel to select from several window presets
and assigns sources to windows on the videowall. Colored borders
and text data can also be applied to windows to call attention to traffic
events. Two wireless tablets running the EMS-Quantum Ultra app
provide similar functionality from any location within the room.
 4K HDMI 4K HDMI
Fiber Optic Link Cable 1 m/10 m

QUANTUM ULTRA 610 QUANTUM ULTRA 610

INPUTS LAN A LAN B QUANTUM IN SMD 100 INPUTS QUANTUM EXPANSION IN
A B C
SLOT 1

SLOT 1
INPUTS LAN A LAN B QUANTUM IN SMD 100 INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI
SLOT 2

SLOT 2
INPUTS LAN A LAN B QUANTUM IN SMD 100 INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI
SLOT 3

SLOT 3
INPUTS LAN A LAN B QUANTUM IN SMD 100 INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI
SLOT 4

SLOT 4
INPUTS LAN A LAN B QUANTUM IN SMD 100 OUTPUTS QUANTUM OUT4HDMI
SLOT 5

SLOT 5
INPUTS LAN A LAN B QUANTUM IN SMD 100 OUTPUTS QUANTUM OUT4HDMI
SLOT 6

SLOT 6
100-240V~ --A MAX 50-60 Hz

100-240V~ --A MAX 50-60 Hz

PRIMARY POWER

PRIMARY POWER
INPUTS LAN A LAN B QUANTUM IN SMD 100 OUTPUTS QUANTUM OUT4HDMI
SLOT 7

SLOT 7
INPUTS LAN A LAN B QUANTUM IN SMD 100 OUTPUTS QUANTUM OUT4HDMI
100-240V~ --A MAX 50-60 Hz

100-240V~ --A MAX 50-60 Hz

SLOT 8

SLOT 8
REDUNTANT POWER

REDUNTANT POWER
OUTPUTS QUANTUM EXPANSION OUT
SLOT 9

SLOT 9
A B C

POWER SYSTEM REMOTE LAN POWER SYSTEM REMOTE LAN

DISCONNECT POWER DISCONNECT POWER
CORD BEFORE 1 CORD BEFORE 1
SERVICING A B SERVICING A B
SLOT 10

SLOT 10
2 2
RS-232 RS-232
CONFIG CONFIG
3 3

HDMI OUT USB Tx Rx G HDMI OUT USB Tx Rx G

Extron Extron
Quantum Ultra 610 Quantum Ultra 610
Ultra-high Bandwidth Ultra-high Bandwidth
4K Videowall Processor 4K Videowall Processor
Ethernet 4K HDMI
PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV

Ethernet 4K Satellite Receiver

Ethernet
PUSH PUSH

Control
POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV

Ethernet LAN 4K Satellite Receiver

4K HDMI

PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV

EMS-Quantum Ultra EMS-Quantum Ultra

Media 4K Satellite Receiver

LAN PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV

4K Satellite Receiver
Ethernet
Ethernet
Ethernet 4K HDMI

Extron
TLP Pro 1025T
10" Tabletop
POWER
12V COM
IPL PRO S1 TouchLink Pro
0.2A MAX
Touchpanel
LAN / PoE
Tx Rx G RTS CTS

Extron PC
IPL Pro S1
Traffic Cameras IP Link Pro 4K HDMI
(100+ Locations) Control Processor

PC

www.extron.com 65
University Student Center Atrium
Overview
An open atrium in a university student center can provide a relaxed
space for private studies, working together on class projects, and
socializing among students, professors, and staff. The area offers
food and coffee stands that are accessible not only to students but
also campus visitors, widening the exposure to potential enrollees
and sources of university funding. A large video display is used to
promote the diverse campus activities and upcoming events to those
enjoying the atrium. The display also provides news, weather, and
other information.
Room Needs Assessment
Display A large, seamless video display covering an
Requirements area approximately 23 feet (7 meters) by 7
feet (2.1 meters). The space presents an air of
professionalism and quality, so image quality
and brightness is crucial to the experience.
Source Types Content for the video system is contributed by
the university schools and departments and
prepared and managed by the IT staff. Four 4K
media players and two HD media players are
available for playback of promotional content.
In addition, two 4K satellite receivers facilitate
presentation of broadcast weather, business,
local and world news, and other information.
System Control A control system allows simple scheduling
of media and videowall control. It supports
override of the system schedule for ad hoc
presentation of content.
Special Area of use is exposed to large amounts of
Requirements natural light, requiring the display to be of
sufficient brightness to accommodate this type
of environment.
­66 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
A Quantum Ultra II 305 4K Videowall Processor with eight
1920x1080p DTP outputs delivers signals across twisted pair cabling.
Eight DTP HDMI 4K 330 Rx receivers provide HDMI outputs to the
LED panels. The videowall processor enables presentation of 4K
and windowed sources anywhere on the display, as well as internally
generated clocks, logos, and dynamically updated text.
Input Source Connectivity
Two Quantum IN4HDMI 4K PLUS input cards receive signals from
four 4K media players and two satellite receivers outputting 4K/60
signals, and two media players outputting HD signals.
Display Systems
Seventy-two direct view 640x360 LED panels, arranged as twelve
panels wide by six panels tall, comprise the overall display. Grouped
as eight 3x3 arrays, each cluster has a resolution of 1920x1080.
The Quantum processor provides a 1080p signal to each group
that is looped between panels. The overall display has a resolution
of 7680x2160, and is 3.6 feet (7.2 meters) wide by 6.7 feet
(2.0 meters) high.
Switching and Signal Management
All source switching is performed internally by the Quantum Ultra II
videowall processor.
Control Network
A control LAN on a dedicated network switch accommodates the
Quantum Ultra II, control system components, and media players.
System Control
An Extron TLP Pro 1025T 10" (25 cm) TouchLink Pro Touchpanel
and an Extron IPCP Pro 250 control processor send Ethernet control
messages to the Quantum processor and the media players. The
system performs scheduled playback of content and videowall preset
selection, which can be overridden by the system administrator for
presenting televised broadcasts in the event of breaking news.
 RS-232 RS-232 RS-232 RS-232 RS-232 RS-232 RS-232 RS-232
1080p HDMI 1080p HDMI 1080p HDMI 1080p HDMI 1080p HDMI 1080p HDMI 1080p HDMI 1080p HDMI
SIG LINK OUTPUTS SIG LINK OUTPUTS SIG LINK OUTPUTS SIG LINK OUTPUTS SIG LINK OUTPUTS SIG LINK OUTPUTS SIG LINK OUTPUTS SIG LINK OUTPUTS
POWER POWER POWER POWER POWER POWER POWER POWER
12V AUDIO 12V AUDIO 12V AUDIO 12V AUDIO 12V AUDIO 12V AUDIO 12V AUDIO 12V AUDIO
0.7A MAX L R 0.7A MAX L R 0.7A MAX L R 0.7A MAX L R 0.7A MAX L R 0.7A MAX L R 0.7A MAX L R 0.7A MAX L R

DTP IN DTP IN DTP IN DTP IN DTP IN DTP IN DTP IN DTP IN

Extron
DTP HDMI
4K 330 Rx
Long Distance
DTP Receiver
for HDMI
CATx Cable
up to 330' CATx Cable
(100 m) up to 330'
HDMI (100 m)

Extron
4K Media Player Quantum Ultra II 305
Ultra-high Bandwidth
4K Videowall Processor
INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI 4K PLUS
QUANTUM ULTRA II 305 4
1 2 3
SLOT 1

INPUTS QUANTUM IN4HDMI 4K PLUS

SLOT 2

1 2 3 4

OUTPUTS QUANTUM OUT4DTP

4K Media Player
SIG LINK SIG LINK SIG LINK SIG LINK
DTP POWER
SLOT 3

OVER TP OVER TP OVER TP OVER TP

12V
4A MAX
HDBT

OUT 1LINK Tx Rx G Tx Rx OUT 2LINK Tx Rx G Tx Rx OUT 3LINK Tx Rx G Tx Rx OUT 4LINK Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP

OUTPUTS DTP POWER SIG SIG SIG SIG QUANTUM OUT4DTP
OVER TP OVER TP OVER TP OVER TP
100-240V ~ 5.0A MAX 50-60 Hz

12V
SLOT 4

POWER SYSTEM REMOTE LAN 4A MAX

HDBT

1
A B OUT 1 Tx Rx G Tx Rx OUT 2 Tx Rx G Tx Rx OUT 3 Tx Rx G Tx Rx OUT 4 Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP
2
RS-232
CONFIG
SLOT 5

HDMI OUT USB Tx Rx G

DISCONNECT POWER
CORD BEFORE
SERVICING

4K Media Player
Extron
PS 124
RED-OVERLOAD

PS 124
12 VDC 4A POWER SUPPLY

Ethernet Multiple Output

12 Volt DC Power Supply

4K Media Player Extron

PS 124
RED-OVERLOAD

PS 124
12 VDC 4A POWER SUPPLY

Ethernet Multiple Output

1 12 Volt DC Power Supply
Media Player Control
LAN
1

Media Player Ethernet Extron

TLP Pro 1025T
10" Tabletop
PUSH PUSH
Ethernet TouchLink Pro
DIRECTV HD

Touchpanel
POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p

SELECT
DIRECTV

4K Satellite Receiver Ethernet

Extron
COM 1 COM 2 DIGITAL I/O
IPCP PRO 250

Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G

POWER VOL RELAYS eBUS IR/S

IPCP Pro 250

12V
PUSH PUSH --A MAX V C G 1 2 C +V +S -S G

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
PWR OUT = 6W S G LAN
SELECT
DIRECTV

HDMI IP Link Pro

4K Satellite Receiver Control Processor

www.extron.com 67
Corporate Lobby and Collaborative Theater
Overview
Videowalls can serve many purposes in a wide variety of
environments, including corporate settings. From collaboration
between employees to showcasing the latest products and services
for guests, a videowall presents information on a grand scale.
Internally, it can enhance productivity. On the public-facing side, a
videowall in the lobby can reflect both the creativity and innovation
that exist beyond the waiting area.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing Engineers collaborate and share product
designs in a presentation theater, and front-
desk staff manage the lobby display system.
Display A presentation theater consisting of six 65"
Requirements (165 cm) displays are arranged in a 2x3
configuration. Also, a lobby videowall consisting
of four 55" (140 cm) 1080p displays are
arranged in a 2x2 configuration.
Source Types Sources include workstation PCs, media
players, satellite tuners, and BYOD-connected
devices.
System Control A touchpanel interface for display control and
selecting window layout presets and active
sources.
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
Both videowalls are driven by XTP scaling receivers. XTP SR HD 4k
receivers support the 2x3 system in the presentation theater over
shielded CATx cable, and the 2x2 videowall located in the lobby area
incorporates XTP SFR HD 4K MM receivers with OM4 multimode
fiber optic connectors. Fiber optics are required to span the 900
feet (274 meters) between the lobby and the equipment rack in the
control room.
­68 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Source Connectivity
All sources connect to an XTP II CrossPoint 3200 modular matrix
switcher rack-mounted in the control room at the core of the complex.
XTP CP HD 4i 4K PLUS input cards support the satellite receivers
and media players rack-mounted with the matrix switcher. They are
connected over HDMI. For the remote sources, such as workstation
PCs and BYOD devices connected to the system at Cable Cubby®
enclosures, XTP transmitters extend AV and control signals to
XTP CP 4i 4K input cards mounted in the XTP II CrossPoint matrix
switcher frame.
Display Systems
Six 65" 1080p displays comprise the presentation theater system.
They are arranged in a 2x3 configuration, providing an overall
display resolution of 5760 pixels by 2160 pixels in a space 169"
by 63.5" (429.2 cm by 161.29 cm). For the corporate lobby, four
55" 1080p displays arranged in a 2x2 configuration provide an
overall display resolution of 3840x2160 in a space 95.4" x 53.7"
(242.3 cm x 136.4 cm).
Switching and Signal Management
All source switching is managed by the XTP II CrossPoint 3200. The
XTP scaling receivers present either a single source or a portion of the
source. When content from one receiver is combined with material
from the adjacent receivers, the upscaled source image spans
multiple displays.
System Control
The control network includes a Layer 2 Ethernet switch for distributing
house-wide system control. An Extron TLP Pro 1225TG 12" (30 cm)
TouchLink Pro touchpanel and an Extron IPCP Pro 555Q xi control
processor interface via Ethernet with the XTP II CrossPoint 3200
matrix switcher, which provides centralized control for each transmitter
and receiver. Communication occurs over the same twister pair or
fiber AV cable used for video delivery, and also allows receivers to
transmit RS-232 control data to the displays.
 BYOD Laptop

Extron HDMI
CONTACT TALLY OUT RS-232 R

Extron

REMOTE
XTP T USW 103 4K

Cable Cubby 700

INPUTS 1 2 3 G 1 2 3 +V Tx Rx G
SIG LINK

XTP T USW 103 4K

POWER
12V
1 2 3
OVER XTP
--A MAX AUDIO

Extron
RS-232 IR

RGB HDMI DISPLAYPORT HDMI OUT XTP OUT LAN

Cable Access Enclosure

Tx Rx G Tx Rx

XTP Transmitter
XTP SR HD 4K
XTP Scaling Receivers
VGA
PRESS

PRESS

HDMI
125 VAC. 50-60 Hz 12A MAX
USB CHARGER
PRESS

PRESS

POWER SIG LINK OVER XTP RELAYS REMOTE POWER SIG LINK OVER XTP RELAYS REMOTE POWER SIG LINK OVER XTP RELAYS REMOTE
OUTPUTS OUTPUTS OUTPUTS
12V AUDIO AUDIO 12V AUDIO AUDIO 12V AUDIO AUDIO
1A MAX RS-232 IR ON L R 1 2 RS-232 1A MAX RS-232 IR ON L R 1 2 RS-232 1A MAX RS-232 IR ON L R 1 2 RS-232
RESET RESET RESET

OFF OFF OFF

XTP IN LAN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI + − + − S/PDIF Tx Rx G XTP IN LAN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI + − + − S/PDIF Tx Rx G XTP IN LAN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI + − + − S/PDIF Tx Rx G

DisplayPort

RS-232
HDMI RS-232 HDMI RS-232 HDMI

PC
Extron
XTP T HD 4K POWER
12V
INPUTS
AUDIO AUDIO OVER XTP
SIG LINK

CATx CATx
XTP Transmitter for HDMI
0.7A MAX ON L R RS-232 IR RESET

XTP T HD 4K OFF
HDMI LOOP THRU + − + − Tx Rx G Tx Rx XTP OUT LAN

CATx

RS-232
XTP CROSSPOINT 3200

PC 1-4 5-8 9-12 13-16

INPUTS
17-20 21-24 25-28 29-32 1-4 5-8 9-12
OUTPUTS
13-16 17-20 21-24 25-28 29-32 HDMI RS-232 HDMI RS-232 HDMI

CP 4o HD 8K
Extron

XTP CP 4i FIBER 4K

XTP CP 4i FIBER 4K
CP 4i HD 8K

CP 4i HD 8K

XTP CP 4i 4K PLUS

XTP CP 4i 4K PLUS

XTP CP 4o 4K PLUS

XTP CP 4o 4K PLUS

XTP CP 4o 4K PLUS

XTP
XTP

XTP

XTP T HD 4K
AT AT
REMOTE
2 (SEC)

2 (SEC)
RS-232/422

OVER FIBER

OVER FIBER
SIG LINK
POWER INPUTS
AUDIO AUDIO OVER XTP
OVER XTP

OVER XTP

OVER XTP

OVER XTP

OVER XTP
XTP Transmitter for HDMI
12V

AUDIO
POWER SIG LINK OVER XTP RELAYS REMOTE POWER SIG LINK OVER XTP RELAYS REMOTE POWER SIG LINK OVER XTP RELAYS REMOTE
RS-232 IR OUTPUTS OUTPUTS OUTPUTS
AUDIO

AUDIO

0.7A MAX ON L R RESET

12V AUDIO AUDIO 12V AUDIO AUDIO 12V AUDIO AUDIO
1A MAX RS-232 IR 1A MAX RS-232 IR 1A MAX RS-232 IR
1 (PRI)

1 (PRI)

ON L R 1 2 RS-232 ON L R 1 2 RS-232 ON L R 1 2 RS-232

RESET RESET RESET
XTP T HD 4K OFF
HDMI LOOP THRU + − + − Tx Rx G Tx Rx

CATx
XTP OUT LAN OFF OFF OFF
1 5 9 13 17 21 25 29
XTP IN LAN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI + − + − S/PDIF Tx Rx G XTP IN LAN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI + − + − S/PDIF Tx Rx G XTP IN LAN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI + − + − S/PDIF Tx Rx G
4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32

LAN
CP 4o HD AT 4K PLUS

CP 4o HD AT 4K PLUS

RESET

Extron
POWER

POWER

LAN

LAN

LAN

LAN

LAN
125 mA

125 mA
12V

12V

HDMI XTP SR HD 4K
XTP

XTP
LINK

LINK

LINK

LINK

LINK
XTP OUT

XTP OUT

XTP OUT
XTP IN

XTP IN

LAN

LAN
I O
SIG

SIG

U
SIG

SIG

SIG

N
T
PWR

PWR

PWR

PWR

PWR

XTP Scaling
U P

CATx CATx
T U
S T
S
POWER

POWER

LAN

LAN

LAN

LAN

LAN
125 mA

125 mA
12V

12V

4K Media Player Receivers

LINK

LINK

LINK

LINK

LINK
XTP OUT

XTP OUT

XTP OUT
XTP IN

XTP IN

LAN

LAN
SIG

SIG

SIG

SIG

SIG
PWR

PWR

PWR

PWR

PWR
POWER

POWER

LAN

LAN

LAN

LAN

LAN
125 mA

125 mA
12V

12V

LINK

LINK

LINK

LINK

LINK

1 5 9 13 17 21 25 29
XTP OUT

XTP OUT

XTP OUT
XTP IN

XTP IN

4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32
LAN

LAN
SIG

SIG

SIG

SIG

SIG
PWR

PWR

PWR

PWR

PWR
POWER

POWER

LAN

LAN

LAN

LAN

LAN
125 mA

125 mA
12V

12V

HDMI
LINK

LINK

LINK

LINK

LINK
XTP OUT

XTP OUT

XTP OUT
XTP IN

XTP IN
SIG

SIG

SIG

SIG

SIG

LAN

LAN
PWR

PWR

PWR

PWR

PWR

PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIREC
TV HD
OUTPUTS
OUTPUTS

OUTPUTS

OUTPUTS
OUTPUTS

OUTPUTS

Fiber
INPUTS

INPUTS

SELECT
INPUTS

INPUTS
INPUTS

INPUTS

DIRECTV
100-240V 12A MAX

Extron
50-60Hz

POWER XTP IN OVER XTP OUTPUTS RELAYS REMOTE POWER XTP IN OVER XTP OUTPUTS RELAYS REMOTE
12V AUDIO AUDIO 12V AUDIO AUDIO
--A MAX RS-232 IR ON L R 1 2 RS-232 RESET --A MAX RS-232 IR ON L R 1 2 RS-232 RESET

XTP SFR HD 4K
DISCONNECT POWER
CORD BEFORE
SERVICING
OFF OFF
SIG LINK LAN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI S/PDIF Tx Rx G SIG LINK LAN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI S/PDIF Tx Rx G

Extron XTP Scaling Fiber

Receivers RS-232 HDMI RS-232 HDMI
HDMI XTP II CrossPoint 3200
Modular Digital Matrix
PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIREC
TV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV

Switcher
CATx Ethernet

Fiber
HDMI
Control
PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIREC
TV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV

Satellite Receivers LAN

Ethernet

Extron RS-232 HDMI RS-232 HDMI

XTP SFR HD 4K
IPCP PRO 555Q xi
COM
SWITCHED IR/SERIAL RELAYS FLEX eBUS LAN AV
12 VDC RTS I/O LAN
CTS 1000
1 2 LIMIT 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 S LIMIT

XTP Scaling Fiber

R Tx Tx LINK
IR
Rx Rx ACT
3 4 OVER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 3 4 OVER

Extron
POWER XTP IN OVER XTP OUTPUTS RELAYS REMOTE POWER XTP IN OVER XTP OUTPUTS RELAYS REMOTE
12V AUDIO AUDIO 12V AUDIO AUDIO

Receivers
--A MAX RS-232 IR ON L R 1 2 RS-232 RESET --A MAX RS-232 IR ON L R 1 2 RS-232 RESET

Extron
OFF OFF
SIG LINK LAN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI S/PDIF Tx Rx G SIG LINK LAN Tx Rx G Tx Rx HDMI S/PDIF Tx Rx G

TLP Pro 1225TG

12" Tabletop TouchLink Pro IPCP Pro 555Q xi
Touchpanel IP Link Pro Control
Processor

www.extron.com 69
Educational Medical Facility
Overview
Videowalls and displays fill multiple roles in this medical environment.
In the operating room, stand-alone displays benefit surgeons by
providing larger-than life views of camera feeds and the patient’s
data readout status. A videowall in the observation room facilitates a
shared view of the operation. It presents live surgical camera and data
feeds in real-time and with high quality to medical professionals in a
learning environment.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing A learning coordinator leads surgery
observation on the videowall, while surgeons
control source selection in the OR.
Display A presentation theater consisting of six 65"
Requirements (165 cm) displays are arranged in a 2x3
configuration, and two stand-alone 65" 1080p
displays are in the OR.
Source Types Sources include cameras, medical equipment,
a PC, and a BYOD-connected device.
System Control A touchpanel interface enables selection of the
videowall window layout presets and active
sources. A tactile button panel provides source
selection for the operating room.
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
The six-display videowall is driven by six NAV SD 101 AV over IP
scaling decoders. These decoders support videowall applications
using Extron’s WindoWall® processing, enabling a mix of full screen
and image magnification across multiple displays. WindoWall
presets provide a quick and easy way to manipulate the videowall
canvas between different image arrangements. Two additional
NAV SD 101 IP decoders deliver content to the displays located
in the operating room.
­70 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Source Connectivity
All sources connect to the system via HDMI to NAV E 101 encoders.
These encoders stream ultra-low latency video over the 1 Gbps
Ethernet network. The Extron patented PURE3® codec delivers
groundbreaking performance with high-quality video at resolutions up
to 4K @ 60 Hz with 4:4:4 chroma sampling and ultra-low latency.
Display Systems
Six 65” 1080p displays comprise the videowall in the observation
room. They are arranged in a 2x3 configuration, providing an overall
display resolution of 5760 pixels by 2160 pixels in a space 169" by
63.5" (429.2 cm by 161.29 cm). Two 65" 1080p displays located in
the operating room deliver live camera content and patient data.
Network
AV over IP and system control is routed through a Layer-3
Network switch.
Switching and Signal Management
Switching and signal management is performed with Extron
NAVigator, which turns the collective encoders and decoders into
a powerful and flexible IP-based matrix solution. NAVigator also
facilitates easy setup, configuration, and quick switching, and includes
extensive features for monitoring, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
System Control
Videowall control is performed with an Extron TLP Pro 1225TG 12"
(30 cm) TouchLink Pro touchpanel, and an Extron IPCP Pro 255Q xi
control processor. They communicate with NAVigator, which provides
intuitive control for layout and source selection. For the displays in the
operating room, sources are selected with an NBP 200, providing a
simple interface with tactile buttons.
 Observation Room Operating Room

Extron
NBP 200
Network Button
Panel
PC LAPTOP
ON OFF

MEDIA
VIDEO
PLAYER

HDMI 1 HDMI 2

HDMI RS-232 HDMI RS-232 MUTE WIRELESS

Extron

HDMI RS-232

POWER OUTPUT CONTROL NAV SD 101

12V
AUDIO
- - A MAX
L R RS-232 IR RESET

LAN
PC HDMI Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

POWER INPUT CONTROL NAV E 101

12V
AUDIO
- - A MAX
L R CONT RS-232 IR RESET
LAN

HDMI LOOP THRU C T Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

HDMI Extron NAV POWER

12V
- - A MAX
OUTPUT
AUDIO
CONTROL NAV SD 101
RESET

NAV
L R RS-232 IR

NAV E 101

LAN
HDMI Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

Pro AVoIP Encoder - HDMI

POWER OUTPUT CONTROL NAV SD 101
12V
AUDIO
- - A MAX
L R RS-232 IR RESET

LAN
HDMI Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

PC
NAV
POWER INPUT CONTROL NAV E 101
12V
AUDIO
- - A MAX
L R CONT RS-232 IR RESET
LAN

POWER OUTPUT CONTROL NAV SD 101

HDMI LOOP THRU C T Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+ 12V
AUDIO
- - A MAX
L R RS-232 IR RESET

LAN
HDMI Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

HDMI Extron
NAV
NAV E 101
Pro AVoIP Encoder - HDMI POWER
12V
- - A MAX
OUTPUT
AUDIO
CONTROL NAV SD 101
RESET
L R RS-232 IR

LAN
HDMI Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

PC NAV
POWER OUTPUT CONTROL NAV SD 101
12V
POWER INPUT CONTROL NAV E 101 AUDIO
12V
- - A MAX
L R RS-232 IR RESET
AUDIO

LAN
- - A MAX
L R CONT RS-232 IR RESET
LAN

HDMI LOOP THRU C T Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+ HDMI Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

Extron
HDMI Extron NAV SD 101
NAV 1 Gbps Ethernet Switch
NAV E 101 Pro AVoIP Scaling Decoder – HDMI
Pro AVoIP Encoder - HDMI

NAV
POWER INPUT CONTROL NAV E 101 POWER OUTPUT CONTROL NAV SD 101
12V
AUDIO 12V
- - A MAX
L R CONT RS-232 IR RESET AUDIO
- - A MAX RESET
LAN

L R RS-232 IR
LAN

HDMI LOOP THRU C T Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

HDMI Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

HDMI Extron Extron

NAV E 101 NAV NAV SD 101
BYOD Laptop Pro AVoIP Scaling Decoder – HDMI
Pro AVoIP Encoder - HDMI
NAV
POWER OUTPUT CONTROL NAV SD 101
12V
AUDIO
- - A MAX
L R RS-232 IR RESET
LAN

HDMI Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

Extron
POWER INPUT CONTROL NAV E 101
12V
AUDIO
- - A MAX
L R CONT RS-232 IR RESET
LAN

NAV SD 101
HDMI LOOP THRU C T Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

Pro AVoIP Scaling Decoder – HDMI

Camera HDMI Extron NAV
NAV E 101
Pro AVoIP Encoder - HDMI Ethernet POWER
12V
- - A MAX
NAVigator
RESET
LAN

OOB NAV/PoE

Extron
NAVigator
Ethernet Pro AVoIP System Manager
POWER INPUT CONTROL NAV E 101
12V
AUDIO
- - A MAX
L R CONT RS-232 IR RESET
LAN

HDMI LOOP THRU C T Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

Camera HDMI Extron NAV NAV

NAV E 101
Pro AVoIP Encoder - HDMI
COM 1 COM 2 DIGITAL I/O

LAN
Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G

POWER VOL RELAYS eBUS IR/S

Ethernet
POWER OUTPUT CONTROL NAV SD 101 12V
12V
AUDIO 1.0A MAX V C G 1 2 C +V +S -S G AV
- - A MAX
L R RS-232 IR RESET
LAN

LAN

HDMI
PWR OUT = 6W S G
HDMI Tx Rx G S G NAV 1G/PoE+

Extron IPCP Pro 255Q xi

NAV SD 101 IPCP Pro xi Control
Pro AVoIP Scaling Decoder – HDMI Processor

Extron
TLP Pro 1225TG
12" Wall Mount
Touchlink Pro
Touchpanel

www.extron.com 71
Notes

­72 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

 Extron Videowall Product Solutions
Extron offers a variety of videowall products designed to meet the
performance and capacity requirements of large or small videowall
applications. Extron videowall processors provide source signal
optimization and multi-window processing for videowalls,
employing multi-input switching and distribution, advanced video
signal processing, and multiple outputs to accommodate all of the
displays in the videowall system.
Extron videowall processing systems offer comprehensive
flexibility in creating and customizing multi-window presentations
within an intuitive GUI that streamlines videowall system setup
and operation.
Extron videowall processors are used in a variety of large screen
or multi-display applications where there are many video and
computer-video sources to be presented at the same time.
They are commonly employed in large areas where numerous
images need to be viewable by everyone, such as in command
and control centers or a network operation center. Such images
often include high resolution computer graphics that need to be
presented with the best possible quality.

Scalable Mid-Sized and Large Videowall Processors

Extron offers processing systems for videowalls with up to 40 displays or more.
Extron Quantum Ultra and Quantum Ultra II are HDCP-compliant, scalable 4K
videowall processing systems that are ideal for mid- to large-sized systems.
They deliver unmatched real-time performance, even for applications requiring
large numbers of inputs and outputs.

Small Videowall Processors

Extron Quantum Ultra Connect processors are ideal for small videowalls with
six or fewer displays and support up to 12 HDMI inputs. The MGP 641 is a
cost-effective solution for applications that require viewing multiple sources
on a single screen.

WindoWall
XTP and NAV systems allow integration of videowalls as part of twisted
pair, fiber optic, or AVoIP distribution systems. They incorporate WindoWall
scaling technology, enabling a mix of full screen and image magnification
across multiple displays. Up to eight videowalls can be supported, and
multiple presets are available per wall for quick and easy viewing between
different image arrangements.
Scalable Mid-Sized and Large Videowall Processors

Quantum Ultra II
Next-Generation 4K/60 Videowall Processing with Audio Support
Quantum® Ultra II represents the next generation of Extron videowall
processors, providing advanced, future-ready connectivity and
throughput capabilities. The expanded HyperLane® video bus delivers
unmatched real-time performance with a throughput of up to 500 Gbps.
The 18 Gbps HDMI connectors on the 4K input and output cards
support resolutions up to 4K/60 at 4:4:4 with full HDCP 2.3 compliance.
Embedded HDMI audio from any source can be routed independently to
each active canvas. A single processor can support multiple videowalls
with mixed resolutions and screen orientations. Features such as portrait
and landscape output support, output overlap, bezel compensation, and
custom output resolutions ensure compatibility with nearly any display.
RS-232, USB, and Ethernet interfaces provide direct connections for
control systems.
FEATURES
• Scalable 4K/60 videowall processing for display systems of any size
• Modular architecture accommodates a variety of input and output
arrangements
• ∏ Future-ready 500 Gbps HyperLane® video bus delivers unparalleled
real-time performance for resolutions up to 8K
• ∏ HDMI 4K PLUS cards support 4K/60 on each connection
• ∏ HDMI embedded audio switching
• ∏ 8K-ready design ensures compatibility with existing as well as next
generation input and output cards
• ∏ HDCP 2.3 compliant
• Compatible with select Quantum Ultra input and output cards
• Manage multiple videowalls with varying resolutions and screen
arrangements from a single processor
• Designed for 24/7, mission-critical environments

Quantum IN4HDMI 4K PLUS

Quantum OUT4HDMI 4K PLUS

MODEL VERSION
Quantum Ultra II 305 3U, 5-slot Frame
Quantum Ultra II 610 6U, 10-slot Frame
Quantum IN4HDMI 4K PLUS Four-channel 4K/60 HDMI Input Card
Quantum OUT4HDMI 4K PLUS Four-channel 4K/60 HDMI Output Card

Note: Part numbers and pricing for complete system configurations are available. Please contact your Extron customer support representative for more information.

­74 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

HyperLane - Unparalleled Real-Time Performance
Quantum Ultra II features a high-speed video bus that incorporates
Extron HyperLane technology that delivers real-time performance
unattainable by other videowall processors. The future-ready HyperLane
video bus has a maximum throughput of 500 Gbps, providing full
compatibility with the highest video resolutions currently in use, such as
4K/60 with 4:4:4 chroma sampling. It has the capacity to simultaneously
carry more than twenty 4K/60 4:4:4 sources. The processor also
possesses the bandwidth required to support evolving signal formats
such as 8K, which can include high dynamic range - HDR, greater color
depth, and expanded color gamut.
HyperLane Video Bus
External
Video Data - Up to 500 Gbps
Inputs
Future-ready, 500 Gbps video bus has the capacity to carry
more than twenty 4K/60 sources, with support for 8K and
other evolving signal formats
Flexible, Modular Architecture
Quantum Ultra II utilizes a modular architecture consisting of a
card frame, input cards, and output cards to meet the needs of
any application. The Quantum Ultra II 610 is a 6U, 10-slot card
frame that supports any combination of input and output cards
for I/O sizes from 36x4 to 4x36. The Quantum Ultra II 305 is a
3U, 5-slot card frame for small to medium-sized videowalls. The
Quantum IN4HDMI 4K PLUS card supports HDMI resolutions up to
8K/60. It accepts four 4K/60 HDMI signals or a single quad-path
8K/60 signal. The Quantum OUT4HDMI 4K PLUS output card delivers
four HDMI signals up to 4K/60. Quantum UItra II is compatible with
Quantum Ultra input and output cards, including the Quantum IN4HDMI,
Quantum IN SMD 100, Quantum OUT4HDMI, and Quantum OUT4DTP.
Vector 4K Scaling
Quantum Ultra II incorporates the Extron-exclusive Vector™ 4K scaling
engine, developed in‑house and engineered to deliver best-in-class
image upscaling and downscaling. Vector 4K embodies several Extron-
patented scaling technologies, plus a new set of image processing
algorithms that provide uncompromising scaling performance. This
enables sharp, accurate 4:4:4 processing and scaling of video and
computer video signals up to 4K, as well as downscaling of 4K source
signals for display in small windows or on lower resolution displays
without losing critical image detail.
Flexible Configuration
The configurability of Quantum Ultra II makes it compatible with nearly
any display type. It accommodates a mixture of display devices with
varying resolutions. Output overlap facilitates integration with edge-
blended projection applications and simplifies integration with large
LED displays. When an image is magnified across multiple displays,
Portrait Videowall
adjustable mullion compensation ensures content appears natural.
Output rotation accommodates displays with portrait and landscape
orientation. Custom output resolutions provide compatibility with current
and future display devices, as well as custom LED walls. All of these
options are available simultaneously from within a single processor,
allowing multiple videowalls to be easily controlled from a single
Quantum Ultra II.
Advanced Features
Quantum Ultra II ensures your video display presents the information
you need, exactly how you want to see it. Sources can be windowed
and positioned anywhere on the canvas. Seamless switching between
presets enhances presentation capabilities. Additionally, static image
files can be stored locally on the Quantum Ultra II and displayed with
full keying and alpha channel support. Internally generated clocks
Outputs
can be presented in a variety of time formats, in multiple time zones.
For flexible presentation of unique and repeated live sources, stored
images, and clock windows, custom color borders can be applied to
any window. This capability includes support for rounded corners, drop
shadows, flashing, and transparency. Each output card can display up
to 64 windows.
Versatile Windowing Capabilities
Streamed Content
The Quantum Ultra II 305 and Quantum Ultra II 610 card frames
support direct decoding of VNC client sessions for presenting desktop
information from networked computers in source windows on the
videowall. For traffic management, security, or other applications
requiring full motion video, the IN SMD 100 input card decodes and
displays multiple simultaneous MPEG2, Motion JPEG, and H.264 video
streams at up to 60 frames per second. This eliminates the need for
external decoders and reduces system cost and complexity.
System Configuration and Control
Quantum Ultra II setup and preset configuration is performed using
Extron VCS - Videowall Configuration Software. It is run on a computer
connected to the rear panel USB or Ethernet port. This intuitive
application simplifies configuration of even the largest and most
complex systems. Settings and preset changes within the software
are automatically synchronized and stored on the videowall processor,
facilitating direct RS-232 or Ethernet connection of control systems.
Quantum VCS software provides intuitive system configuration and control
www.extron.com 75
Scalable Mid-Sized and Large Videowall Processors
Quantum Ultra II 610
6U, 10-slot Frame
The Quantum Ultra II 610 card frame is
the next generation of Extron videowall
processors, providing advanced, future-ready
connectivity and throughput capabilities. It
can be populated with any combination of
Quantum Ultra II and Quantum Ultra input and
output cards to match source and display
requirements. The frame holds up to ten input
and output cards cards. Multiple card frames
can be configured and operated as a single
system to accommodate any size videowall.
MODEL VERSION
Quantum Ultra II 610 6U, 10-slot Frame
Quantum Ultra II 305
3U, 5-slot Frame
The Quantum Ultra II 305 is the next
generation of Extron videowall processors,
providing advanced, future-ready connectivity
and throughput capabilities. It supports any
combination of up to five Quantum Ultra II and
Quantum Ultra input and output cards. A single
solid-state storage drive with an embedded,
write protected operating system ensures
fast boot times and reliable performance.
The Quantum Ultra II 305 is a powerful yet
cost-effective solution for small to medium
size videowalls.
MODEL VERSION
Quantum Ultra II 305 3U, 5-slot Frame
­76 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
FEATURES:
• Supports any combination of input and output
cards for I/O sizes from 36x4 to 4x36
• Future-ready 500 Gbps HyperLane® video bus
delivers unparalleled real-time performance for
resolutions up to 8K
• RS-232 and Ethernet interfaces provide direct
connections for SIS control
• Dual-redundant, hot swappable Extron-
engineered Everlast™ power supplies for 24/7
mission-critical environments
• HDMI 4K PLUS cards support 4K/60 on each
connection
• HDMI embedded audio switching
• HDCP 2.3 compliant
• Solid-state, write-protected operating system
drive
• Secondary solid-state drive for image storage
• Simultaneous management of multiple output
resolutions and screen arrangements from a
single processor
FEATURES:
• Supports any combination of input and output
cards for I/O sizes from 16x4 to 4x16
• Future-ready 500 Gbps HyperLane® video bus
delivers unparalleled real-time performance for
resolutions up to 8K
• HDMI 4K PLUS cards support 4K/60 on each
connection
• HDMI embedded audio switching
• HDCP 2.3 compliant
• Single solid‑state storage drive with write-
protected operating system
Quantum IN4HDMI 4K PLUS
Four-channel 4K/60 HDMI Input Card
The Quantum IN4HDMI 4K PLUS input card
features 18 Gbps HDMI connectors and
supports source resolutions up to 4K/60
with 4:4:4 color sampling and full HDCP 2.3
compliance. It quickly and precisely acquires
standard source formats, as well as unique
signal types common in military or medical
environments.

FEATURES:
• Supports up to four simultaneous 4K/60 HDMI
sources
• Supports sources from 480i to 4K/60
• HDCP 2.3 compliant
• 4:4:4 signal processing
• Source rotation
• Aspect ratio control

MODEL VERSION
Quantum IN4HDMI 4K PLUS Four-channel 4K/60 HDMI Input Card

Quantum OUT4HDMI 4K PLUS

Four-channel 4K/60 HDMI Output Card
The Quantum OUT4HDMI 4K PLUS output
card features 18 Gbps HDMI connectors
and supports output resolutions up to 4K/60
with 4:4:4 color sampling and full HDCP 2.3
compliance. Embedded HDMI audio from any
IN4HDMI 4K PLUS source can be routed to
each active canvas.

FEATURES:
• Supports up to four 4K/60 HDMI displays
simultaneously
• Supports signals from 1024x768 to 4K/60
• 4:4:4 signal processing
• Output rotation
• Custom output resolutions support evolving
display technology

MODEL VERSION
Quantum OUT4HDMI 4K PLUS Four-channel 4K/60 HDMI Output Card

www.extron.com 77
Scalable Mid-Sized and Large Videowall Processors
Quantum Ultra 610
6U, 10-slot Frame
The Quantum Ultra 610 card frame can be
populated with any combination of up to
ten Quantum Ultra input and output cards
to match source and display requirements.
Multiple card frames can be configured and
operated as a single system to accommodate
any size videowall.
MODEL VERSION
Quantum Ultra 610 6U, 10-slot Frame
Quantum Ultra 305
3U, 5-slot Frame
The Quantum Ultra 305 supports any
combination of up to five Quantum Ultra input
and output cards. It features a single solid-
state storage drive with an embedded, write
protected operating system for fast boot times
and reliable performance. The Quantum Ultra
305 is a powerful yet cost-effective solution for
small to medium size videowalls.
MODEL VERSION
Quantum Ultra 305 3U, 5-slot Frame
­78 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
FEATURES:
• Supports any combination of input and output
cards for I/O sizes from 36x4 to 4x36
• RS-232 and Ethernet interfaces provide direct
connections for SIS control
• Future-ready 400 Gbps HyperLane® video bus
delivers unparalleled real-time performance
• Dual-redundant, hot swappable Extron-
engineered Everlast power supplies for 24/7
mission-critical environments
• Two AC power inputs
• Solid-state, write-protected operating system
drive
• Secondary solid-state drive for image storage
• Simultaneous management of multiple output
resolutions and screen arrangements from a
single processor
FEATURES:
• Supports any combination of input and output
cards for I/O sizes from 16x4 to 4x16
• Future-ready 400 Gbps HyperLane® dedicated
video bus
• Single solid‑state storage drive with write-
protected operating system
• Internal Extron Everlast power supply
• RS-232 and Ethernet interfaces provide direct
connections for SIS control
• Simultaneous management of multiple display
resolutions and screen arrangements from a
single processor
Quantum IN4HDMI
Quantum Ultra HDMI Input Card
The Quantum IN4HDMI input card supports
up to four 2K inputs, two 4K/30 inputs, or a
single 4K/60 input. It quickly and precisely
acquires standard source formats, as well
as unique signal types common in military or
medical environments.

FEATURES:
• Compatible with Quantum Ultra and
Quantum Ultra II videowall systems
• Up to four simultaneous HDMI inputs
• Supports signals from 480i to 4K/60
• Supports 4K/30 signals on a single connection
• Supports 4K/60 signals on two or four
connections
• 4:4:4 signal processing
• Source rotation
• Aspect ratio control

MODEL VERSION
Quantum IN4HDMI Four-channel HDMI Input Card

Quantum IN SMD 100

Streaming Decoder Card
The Quantum IN SMD 100 streaming decoder
card is compatible with MPEG‑2, Motion
JPEG, and H.264 streams at bitrates up to
40 Mbps. Each card is capable of decoding
up to four 1080p/60, eight 1080p/30, or
16 SD streams. It supports the video sections
of ONVIF Profile S, making it compatible
with a wide variety of H.264 encoders and
IP cameras.

FEATURES:
• Compatible with Quantum Ultra and
Quantum Ultra II videowall systems
• Hardware decoding of H.264, MPEG-2, and
MJPEG streams at bit rates up to 40 Mbps
• Adherence to ONVIF Profile-S video specification
• Decodes from four 1080p/60 streams up to 16
standard-definition video streams
• Supports a wide range of streaming transport
protocols
• Two independently-configurable network
connections

MODEL VERSION
Quantum IN SMD 100 Streaming Decoder Card

www.extron.com 79
Scalable Mid-Sized and Large Videowall Processors

Quantum Ultra Expansion Cards

Link Multiple Processor Frames to Create Large Videowall Systems
Quantum Expansion In and Quantum
Expansion Out cards link multiple
Quantum Ultra videowall processors together,
simplifying the design, integration, and
operation of large videowalls. Three fiber optic Quantum Expansion IN
cables link each pair of expansion cards,
which extends the high-speed HyperLane® bus
between the processors to create a common,
shared bus. This makes all input sources
available to all video outputs. Once configured, Quantum Expansion OUT
the processors operate as a single system
without the need for front‑end switching or
distribution amplifiers. Up to five processors
can be linked using four pairs of expansion
cards. Quantum Ultra outputs are genlocked LOCK

across all processors, maintaining image

OPEN

synchronization and eliminating video tearing.

Expansion OUT Card
STATUS
PRIMARY POWER

REDUNDANT POWER

FRONT FANS

FEATURES
REAR FANS

QUANTUM ULTRA 610

VIDEO WALL PROCESSOR

• Links multiple Quantum Ultra processors

together to create a single large system
LOCK

OPEN

• Create videowalls with up to five processors and

Expansion IN Card
168 total inputs/outputs
Expansion OUT Card
• Three fiber optic cables extend the high-speed STATUS
PRIMARY POWER

REDUNDANT POWER

HyperLane bus between each expansion

FRONT FANS

REAR FANS

QUANTUM ULTRA 610

VIDEO WALL PROCESSOR

card pair
• Uncompressed data link between expansion
LOCK

OPEN

cards retains critical image quality

• Eliminates the need for front‑end switching Expansion IN Card
/ distribution of sources across multiple STATUS

processors
PRIMARY POWER

REDUNDANT POWER

FRONT FANS

REAR FANS

QUANTUM ULTRA 610

VIDEO WALL PROCESSOR

• Outputs are genlocked across each

Quantum Ultra processor
• Multiple processors operate as single,
Up to 5 Processors
cohesive system

MODEL VERSION
Quantum Expansion IN Expansion Input Card
Quantum Expansion OUT Expansion Output Card
MPO MM 1m Expansion Link Cable 1m
MPO MM 10m Expansion Link Cable 10m
MPO MM 100m Expansion Link Cable 100m

­80 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

Quantum OUT4HDMI
Quantum Ultra HDMI Output Card
The Quantum OUT4HDMI has four HDMI
outputs and supports resolutions from
1024x768 to 4K/60. Output rotation, output
overlap, mullion compensation, and custom
output resolutions provide compatibility with
nearly any display device.

FEATURES:
• Compatible with Quantum Ultra and
Quantum Ultra II videowall systems
• Up to four simultaneous HDMI outputs
• Supports signals from 1024x768 to 4K/60
• Delivers 4K/30 signals on a single connection
• Delivers 4K/60 signals on two or four
connections
• 4:4:4 signal processing
• Output rotation
• Custom output resolutions support evolving
display technology

MODEL VERSION
Quantum OUT4HDMI Four-channel HDMI Output Card

Quantum OUT4DTP
Quantum Ultra DTP Output Card
The Quantum OUT4DTP shares the same
features as the OUT4HDMI, and offers
four DTP outputs that can send signals
up to 330 feet (100 meters) over shielded
CATx cable.

FEATURES:
• Compatible with Quantum Ultra and
Quantum Ultra II videowall systems
• Up to four simultaneous twisted pair outputs
• Supports signals from 1024x768 to 4K/30 on
a single connection
• Delivers 4K/60 signals on two or four
connections
• Supports transmission distances up to 330’
(100 m)
• Selectable DTP, XTP, and HDBaseT twisted pair
output modes
• Power insertion enables remote powering
of DTP receivers
• Bidirectional RS-232 and IR insertion for
AV device control
• RS-232 insertion from the Ethernet control port

MODEL VERSION
Quantum OUT4DTP Four-channel DTP Output Card

www.extron.com 81
Scalable Mid-Sized and Large Videowall Processors
VCS
Videowall Configuration Software
Extron VCS – Videowall Configuration Software is a universal application
for configuring Extron Quantum Ultra 4K videowall processors. With this
intuitive, time-saving software, Extron videowall products are configured
using a common interface. System configuration is broken down into
logical tasks, such as wall configuration, source setup, preset design,
and EDID management for simplified integration. Online and offline editing
allows creation and configuration of systems with or without an attached
processor. Familiar editing controls streamline layering, aligning, and
sizing of source windows. Live and Preview modes provide the option for
immediate or controlled wall response to edits. With an intuitive workflow
and familiar interface, VCS provides efficient configuration of any Extron
4K videowall processor.
VCS is a computer-based software application supporting Ethernet and
USB communication. Settings and preset changes within the software
are automatically synchronized and stored on the videowall processor,
allowing direct connection and control of the hardware using SIS
commands. System maintenance is simplified with integrated connection
status indicators and firmware update controls.
Powerful Editing Features
VCS features advanced editing controls that accelerate the configuration
process. Window presets are created by dragging and dropping sources
onto a virtual representation of the videowall. Multi-level Undo and Redo
facilitates fast preset editing by allowing you to quickly revert changes
to a previous layout arrangement, and back again. Offline configuration
allows commissioning to begin before arriving on site, or when the
processor is temporarily unavailable due to limited facility access or other
restrictions. Preview mode supports “ad hoc” edits during live events,
leaving the videowall unaffected by preset edits until a “Take” action is
performed.
­82 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
The intuitive interface, task-oriented workflow, and advanced
configuration features give VCS the power and flexibility you require to
get your videowall up and running fast, without sacrificing ease-of-use.
Whether managing a few windows on one or two displays, or hundreds
of windows across a multitude of displays, VCS provides an efficient
solution for your videowall commissioning needs.
• Provides a common user interface for configuring Extron 4K
videowall processors
• Task-oriented workflow
• Configure systems while online or offline
• Live and Preview editing modes
• Undo/Redo edits to wall presets
• Familiar tools and icons for window management
• Supports devices with Ethernet or USB connectivity
• Stores all configuration and preset parameters locally on the
videowall processor
• Status indicators give users visual confirmation of processor connection
• Update device firmware directly from the Device Settings task
• Efficient configuration for videowalls of any size and complexity
Compatible with:
• Quantum Ultra II
• Quantum Ultra
• Quantum Ultra Connect
• MGP 641
EMS Express Mobile Software - Quantum Ultra
Multi-platform Control Application for Videowall Processors
EMS Express Mobile Software - Quantum Ultra is an application designed
to provide intuitive user control of Quantum Ultra videowall processors.
It is compatible with Apple® iOS® and Google® Android™ tablets and
Microsoft® Surface and Windows 10 PCs. The software combines
the freedom of wireless control with an easy to use tablet application
operated with familiar finger gestures. These include drag and drop,
swipe, and tap. It facilitates preset selection, window size and position,
source selection, and other common operational tasks, and can work
in tandem with VCS and a control system. Up to 10 users can control
one or more videowalls. Separate User, Designer, and Administrator
credentials define operational roles. EMS-Quantum Ultra is ideal for use
with systems requiring one or more points of control through a user-
friendly interface.
EMS-Quantum Ultra can be used in any application that requires mobile,
wireless or wired control of a videowall for operational use. This includes
corporate conference rooms, command and control centers, network
operations hubs, or other applications that would benefit from intuitive
control, either single-point or multi-point. A LinkLicense® upgrade for the
Quantum Ultra, LinkLicense for EMS-Quantum Ultra, is required to enable
communication between EMS and the processor.
Familiar finger gestures facilitate easy and intuitive control of videowalls.
Drag and drop enables quick changes between presets and source
selection within windows. Effortlessly resize windows using standard two-
finger pinch and stretch actions. To access each videowall in the system,
swipe to switch between canvases.
Multi-platform Compatibility
EMS-Quantum Ultra is fully compatible with tablets running iOS, Android,
and Windows operating systems, easily adapting to the chosen platform
of an organization’s infrastructure.
The software works with the following operating systems:
- iOS 10 or above
- Android 6.0 or above
- Windows 10 or above, including Surface and PCs
In addition to the functionality you would expect from an easy-to-use
videowall control application, EMS-Quantum Ultra provides access to a
MODEL VERSION
EMS Express Mobile Software - Quantum Ultra iOS App for Quantum Ultra Control
EMS Express Mobile Software - Quantum Ultra Android App for Quantum Ultra Control
EMS Express Mobile Software - Quantum Ultra Windows App for Quantum Ultra Control
wide variety of features that enhance operation, content presentation,
and management.
Separate User, Designer, and Administrator Credentials
Three permission levels define operational roles. Users can recall and
switch between presets and temporarily edit presets. Designers and
Administrators have the added ability to create and save edited presets.
EMS-Quantum Ultra can be used in a variety of control scenarios. It can
act as a single, exclusive point of control for one or more videowalls. As a
multi-point control solution, up to 10 devices can operate the videowalls.
It can also be a supplemental point of control used in conjunction with
Videowall Configuration Software - VCS and a control system.
Streamlined Setup
Initial Quantum Ultra setup is performed using VCS. This includes:
- Establishing system communication
- Creating the screen layout
- Setting output resolutions and refresh rates
- Assigning overlap or bezel compensation, if required
- Configuring sources and EDID
- Creating window presets
Once initial configuration is complete, EMS-Quantum Ultra can run from
one or more locations. This allows easy system control from up to 10
devices. The application can be used by itself or in conjunction with VCS
and a control system, such as an Extron Pro Series control processor
and a TouchLink Pro touchpanel.
Features
• Compatible with Apple® iOS®, Google® Android™, and Microsoft® Surface
tablets
• Simplifies common operational tasks, such as preset selection, window
management, and source switching
• Supports familiar operational gestures, including drag and drop, swipe, and
tap
• Control videowalls from up to 10 devices simultaneously
• Requires videowall processor with LinkLicense® for EMS‑Quantum Ultra
www.extron.com 83
Small Videowall Processors

Quantum Ultra Connect

4K Videowall Processing for Small to Mid-Sized Applications
Extron Quantum® Ultra Connect 84 and
Quantum Ultra Connect 128 are eight and twelve
HDMI input videowall processors for systems with
up to four or eight displays. They deliver the same
high-quality scaling and real-time performance
as Extron's Quantum Ultra processors, featuring
the Vector™ 4K scaling engine and HyperLane®
high-speed video bus technology. Custom output
resolutions, input and output image rotation, and
bezel compensation provide compatibility with
a wide variety of display technologies. Flexible
window placement allows side-by-side, overlap, Quantum Ultra Connect 84
and picture in picture image positioning. For HDCP-
encrypted content, Key Minder® and SpeedSwitch®
Technology deliver virtually instantaneous switching.
RS-232, USB, and Ethernet interfaces provide
control system connection, eliminating the need for
a dedicated control computer.

FEATURES:
• Cost effective 4K/60 HDMI videowall processors for
videowalls with up to eight screens
• Supports 4K on one, two, or four connections
• Extron Vector™ 4K scaling engine
• 400 Gbps HyperLane® video bus delivers
unparalleled real-time performance
• Direct control via RS-232, USB, and Ethernet Quantum Ultra Connect 128
• Designed for 24/7, mission-critical environments
• Integrates easily into a diverse array of 4K
environments such as lobbies, auditoriums, and
simulation environments
• Seamless transitions
• 3U, 5-slot card frame
• Solid-state storage
• Write-protected operating system

MODEL VERSION
Quantum Ultra Connect 84 8 Inputs, 4 Outputs
Quantum Ultra Connect 128 12 Inputs, 8 Outputs

­84 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

MGP 641
4K/60 HDMI Multi-Window Processor with DTP2 Extension
The Extron MGP 641 is a multi-window processor that scales and presents up to four 4K/60 source signals on a single screen. It features advanced
Extron Vector™ 4K scaling technology for unequaled image quality. The HDCP 2.3-compliant processor includes four HDMI 2.0 inputs and an
additional HDMI background input. HDMI and DTP2 4K/60 outputs deliver duplicate signals to local and remote displays. Audio de-embedding
simplifies integration. These features and capabilities enable the MGP 641 processor to deliver professional presentations that are ideal for high-end
environments and live events.

Flexible Source Windowing Source and Output Rotation

The MGP 641 offers extensive windowing options, enabling side-by-side, Content received on Inputs 2 and 4 can be rotated 90 degrees. The
overlap, and picture in picture positioning of live sources. duplicate HDMI and DTP2 output signals can also be rotated 90 degrees
to accommodate displays arranged in portrait or landscape orientations.

4K/60 HDMI Background Input

The HDMI background input supports animated backgrounds, tickers,
or other live content. It can also accommodate additional MGP 641
processors to present up to 16 fully customizable windows.

Restriction-free window placement

Window Presets and Transitions

128 window presets allow for quick saving and recall of size, positioning
and priority for each window. Transitions between presets can be
set to Cut or Animated. The Animated effect dynamically resizes and
repositions the windows to the selected preset’s locations. Live video or scrolling text Cascade up to four MGP 641 processors

MODEL VERSION
MGP 641 4 HDMI Inputs

www.extron.com 85
WindoWall

AV over IP Distribution
with Flexible Videowall Features
NAV® is the only no-compromise Pro AV over IP solution for distribution and switching of ultra-low latency, high quality video and audio signals
over an Ethernet network at low bitrates. NAV WindoWall® mode utilizes NAV scaling decoders with Extron Vector 4K scaling technology to enable
videowall support within the NAV system. This further expands capabilities and enables broader use in installations, such as command and control
and emergency operations centers. The NAVigator system manager simplifies configuration of powerful WindoWall features.

FEATURES
• Enables a mix of full screen and image magnification
across multiple displays
• Browser-based NAVigator setup simplifies the
configuration process
• Up to eight videowalls per system
• Supports display arrays up to 8x8
• Up to eight assignable presets are available per wall
• Provides mullion compensation for displays

Canvas setup using NAVigator browser interface

­86 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

 XTP Systems Deliver Powerful Capabilities
for Videowall Applications
We are pleased to introduce XTP WindoWall®, an exciting enhancement that brings videowall capabilities to XTP Systems®. Utilizing XTP® scaling
receivers, XTP WindoWall enables a mix of full screen and image magnification across multiple displays. Up to eight videowalls can be supported
within an XTP system, and up to eight assignable presets are available per wall for quick and easy viewing between different image arrangements.
Convenient software features such as drag and size layout configuration, mullion compensation, and the ability to create multiple presets expedite
the setup process.

FEATURES
• Expands XTP Systems applications to include videowall
environments
• Supports any aspect ratio configuration up to 8x8
• Enables a mix of full screen and image magnification
across multiple displays
• XTP System Configuration Software streamlines
videowall set up, saving time and money
• Presets offer quick and easy selection between layouts
• Mullion compensation for flat panel displays

MODEL VERSION
XTP SR HD 4K HDMI Scaling Receiver
XTP SFR HD 4K MM HDMI Scaling Receiver - Multimode
XTP SFR HD 4K SM HDMI Scaling Receiver - Singlemode XTP System Configuration Software Offers Quick and Easy Setup

www.extron.com 87
Everlast Power Supplies
Energy Efficient Power Supplies
Engineered for Ultimate Reliability
The Power to Perform
Power supply failures in mission-critical AV products can cause
significant disruption to signal distribution and facility operations, creating
serious challenges for system integrators, end users, and manufacturers
alike. Extron has answered this challenge with the Everlast™ Series
of high-performance, “no compromise” internal and external power
supplies, setting a new standard for reliability and efficiency in the
professional AV industry.
Designed from the ground up by our Extron engineering team, Everlast
Power Supplies use state-of-the-art technology and the highest-quality
components to ensure the reliability of our products. Like all of Extron’s
products, our design philosophy and manufacturing process for the
Everlast Power Supplies are driven by safety, performance, reliability, and
efficiency…not merely by cost.
Everlast power supplies are integrated into a wide range of Extron products
and are also available as external PS Series power supplies.
­88 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Aren’t All Power Supplies the Same?
Definitely not. Our AV industry competitors typically use generic off-the-
shelf power supplies from 3rd party vendors. These mass-produced
power supplies are frequently designed to meet a low price point,
employing the least expensive components meeting the minimum
manufacturing spec. Using a cheap diode vs. a efficient transistor, or a
10 cent capacitor instead of a 20 cent version might save some pennies
in manufacturing costs, but those savings can turn into expensive
liabilities when the product fails to power up.
The Extron Everlast Difference
Our Everlast Power Supplies are designed and manufactured in-house,
employing premium-quality components and highly efficient, modern
topologies for thermal management, transistor switching, energy
dissipation, and virtually every other critical aspect of the power system.
Each Everlast Power Supply is built with the same care and meticulous
attention to detail as our award-winning high-end video products.
 The Anatomy of an Everlast Power Supply
High temperature rated,
electrolytic capacitors

Precision-wound
transformers

Reliable heat
dissipation

Engineered to last:
components arranged
for maximum efficiency,
airflow and cooling

Metal fan assembly

with high quality
bearings and longest
available lifetime rating

Demonstrated Reliability. Proven Performance. 7-Year Warranty

Typical AV power supplies have an average MTBF, Mean Time Between
Failure, rating of around 30,000 hours, calculated by using the stated
specifications of the individual components.
To ensure that our Everlast power supplies meet Extron standards of
performance and quality, we subjected each model of our PS Desktop
Series to actual, not calculated, accelerated operational life testing,
using a heat chamber at an ambient temperature of 85° C. Based on
this life testing, we achieved MTBF benchmarks of 280,000 hours up
to an incredible 1,000,000 hours, or the equivalent of over 114 years,
depending on the model. We know of no other company that has gone
to such lengths to guarantee power supply reliability.
Typical AV
Power Supplies
30,000 Hrs. 280,000 Hrs. 1,000,000 Hrs.
Lean, Mean, and Green
The energy efficient designs of our Everlast Power Supplies help to
meet green building requirements by lowering power consumption and
reducing overall operating costs.
• Our Everlast PS Series of Desktop Power Supplies are Level VI rated
and consume just 0.075 watts or less at idle when no load is present
on the output.
• Our superior heat dissipation and thermal management engineering
enables Everlast-powered installations to run cooler, which in turn
lightens the demand on the local HVAC system.
Extron is pleased to announce that we are extending the Warranty
period to 7 years for all of our Everlast desktop power supplies and
Everlast internal and integrated power supplies. Product performance
and reliability have always been important guiding principles for
Extron. Quality and reliability are two of the most important design
criteria for every Extron product. The confidence we have achieved
has enabled us to enhance our support program. Providing this
World Class Warranty is another example of Extron's commitment to
stand behind our products and our customers.
Power Supply Trade-up Program
Extron has a Power Supply Trade-up Program for
Extron Customers. For any combination of fifteen
qualifying 12 Volt PS Series power supplies returned
to us on an authorized RMA, we will ship to the
customer a new PS 124 Multiple Output 12 Volt DC
Power Supply. The PS 124 features eight 12 volt DC
outputs, providing a total of 4 amps across all outputs with no per-
port current limitations. This power supply is designed to take the
place of several individual PS Series desktop power supplies, which
frees up space in the equipment rack. Additionally, the PS 124 is UL
2043 rated when used with the optional Flexible Conduit Adapter Kit
for installation into a ceiling space.
Extron provides 12 volt power supplies with many products, but
when power supplies are shared, the unused power supplies are
tossed aside and could end up in a landfill. Extron customers have
asked for a way to trade in these brand new power supplies and
our Power Supply Trade-up Program is an excellent way to avoid
unnecessary waste.
To learn more about Everlast power supplies, visit
www.extron.com/everlast

www.extron.com 89
Vector 4K

Extron Vector 4K Scaling Technology 4:4:4 Chroma Sampling

For over 20 years, Extron has been engineering scaling and signal Vector 4K processing is always performed in the RGB domain
processing solutions that deliver uncompromised image quality and with full 4:4:4 color bandwidth, which is critical for processing fine
performance. As a result, we have become an industry leader in scaling image details. Competing 4K scalers commonly process in the
technology, designing best-in-class products renowned for their quality, component domain, employing 4:2:2 or 4:2:0 chroma subsampling.
reliability, and ease of use. We have continually refined our technology to This decreases the bandwidth required to process the signal, at
keep pace with evolving video formats – from standard definition to high the expense of reduced color detail. Chroma subsampling may be
definition signals, and now, 4K. acceptable when processing full-motion video content, but with
PC-generated content, subsampled color negatively impacts the
Engineered by Extron from clarity of the image. Vector 4K 4:4:4 color processing retains the fine
the Ground Up color details present in the original source.
Vector 4K was developed
internally by Extron’s expert
team of signal processing
engineers. Extron engineers
have crafted patented image
processing technologies that
set the industry benchmark for
visual performance. Features
such as 4:4:4 chroma sampling
and bicubic scaling ensure very high image quality and preserve detail
present in the original source material. 4:4:4 Chroma Sampling
Patented Scaling Technology
for the Most Demanding 4K
Applications
By developing our own scaling technology,
we can design to our own exacting
specifications and have absolute control
over the end product. Our many years of
signal processing achievements have resulted in 24 worldwide patents
4:2:2 Chroma Subsampling
for our scaling engines and video processing algorithms. These patented
technologies are part of what makes Extron Vector 4K scaling the new
benchmark for 4K video processing.

­90 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

Bicubic Interpolation
The Vector 4K scaling engine incorporates Extron-patented, multi-tap,
bicubic interpolation, which creates a new pixel by averaging adjacent
pixels above, below, to the sides, and diagonally of the new pixel. This
produces sharp, accurate output, preserving single-pixel detail that other
scaling methods lack. Vector 4K algorithms continually and dynamically
adapt, ensuring optimal processing for upscaling, downscaling, or 1:1
pass-through applications.
Bicubic Interpolation
Dynamic Digital Input Detection and Auto-Image
Today’s computer video standards allow for signal customization to
suit the needs of a particular application or display. Such sources can
present a challenge for signal processors that rely solely on fixed lookup
tables of common resolutions, which are typically incomplete and quickly
become obsolete. Vector 4K goes beyond conventional lookup tables,
incorporating dynamic input detection which analyzes incoming digital
video signals and accurately identifies the signal parameters before
processing them for precise conversion and scaling.
Laptop
3200x1800
Workstation
2048x 2048
Digital Signage
Media Player
1920x545
Screen 1.5.1 Screen 1.5.2
Screen 1.5.3 Screen 1.5.4
Dynamic Internal Test Patterns
Extron Vector 4K scalers and signal processors are equipped with a
set of dynamic, mathematically generated, vector-based video test
patterns. They aid in configuring displays, and provide test signals to
facilitate troubleshooting and expedite system recovery. These patterns
are precisely generated based on the scaler’s output resolution, and
are automatically redrawn if the resolution is changed. This ensures that
test patterns exactly match the signal resolution, producing sharp, crisp
images, which in turn facilitate precise setup and configuration of display
devices. Patterns specific to videowall applications are included, such as
Diagonal Crosshatch, Edge Blend Alignment, and Display ID.
EDID Management
Vector 4K encompasses a range of advanced
signal management technologies common
across many of Extron’s digital video product solutions, simplifying
integration of digital video sources and displays, and ensuring optimal
system performance and dependability. EDID Minder® manages EDID
communication between devices so that preferred video formats are
always correctly and reliably output from the source to the receiving
device. Custom EDID can also be captured or uploaded to Extron
products for special applications.
Integration Features
Vector 4K technology also provides features that aid in system
integration, such as aspect ratio control, auto-memory and user presets,
advanced HDCP management, and more.
Learn More
To learn more about Vector 4K scaling, visit www.extron.com/vector4k,
where you can see interactive demonstrations of Vector 4K technology,
view an informational video highlighting key features, and download the
Vector 4K brochure.
www.extron.com/vector4k
www.extron.com 91
Videowall System Commissioning

Videowall Commissioning
Product Commissioning Service for
Extron Videowall Processors
Extron Videowall Commissioning is a proactive
service that ensures your Quantum Ultra,
Quantum Ultra II, or Quantum Ultra Connect
processing system matches the specified
performance requirements. An Extron Systems
Design Engineer - SDE provides personalized
assistance, from concept to completion, to
help you deliver a system that meets your
customer’s expectations.

FEATURES:
• Extron support services for Quantum®
videowall processors
• Ensures videowall system designs meet
performance requirements
• Pre-installation design review and assistance
• On-site or remote support with an Extron SDE
• Videowall product performance optimization
and configuration
• Videowall system operator training

Extron Videowall Commissioning Includes: Pre and Post-Commissioning Checklists

Pre-installation design review services – Extron SDEs are available to
assist you throughout the design process. We review your final system
design diagram, prior to commissioning, to verify that it provides optimal
videowall performance.
Window layout optimization – Using your wiring schematic and
window layout drawings, we create a VCS project file that includes all
aspects of the system. It includes videowall parameters, I/O routing,
and window layout presets. Once on-site, the Extron SDE verifies the
presets, configures source parameters, and delivers to you a completed
project file.
Processor and source optimization –The Extron SDE optimizes
all Quantum processors, including signal timing, clock and phase
settings, size and position adjustments, video adjustments such as
color, tint, contrast, and brightness settings, as well as other general
image parameters.
Validation of processor control – After processor and source
optimization is complete, the Extron SDE verifies that window layout
presets are being recalled accurately, and that the processor is correctly
responding to commands it receives from an external control system, if
present.
Basic VCS and EMS software training for the system operator
– After correct processor control is verified, the Extron SDE provides
training on the VCS software’s user interface, as well as how to perform
system adjustments and design window layouts. EMS software,
if utilized, will also be reviewed.
A site preparedness form to guide you through the pre-commissioning
requirements is provided to you before commissioning is performed.
Upon completion of the commissioning, you are issued a site
acceptance form to facilitate signoff of the Extron Videowall
Commissioning service.
Developing a Commissioning Plan
Extron can assist you in developing a commissioning plan for the
installation. Please contact your local Extron sales representative or
sales office to discuss:
• Job site location
• System application, such as a network operations center, command
and control center, corporate lobby, or retail center
• How the system will be use, and if known, the layouts for the video
window presets
• Current system design, including switcher size, sources, display type,
resolution, and cable distance estimates
• Primary method of user control, be it VCS, EMS, or an external
control system and touchpanel interface
• Site considerations, such as general site availability and access
restrictions for individuals or equipment
• Contact details for the primary AV system designer
• Anticipated dates for equipment delivery, installation, commissioning,
and project completion for commissioning
• Whether on-site or remote commission is preferred

MODEL VERSION
Remote Commissioning Videowalls Remote Commissioning for Videowalls
Onsite Commissioning - Videowalls Onsite Commissioning for Videowalls

­92 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

 AV Glossary
In use throughout this guide is the language of videowalls. The lexicon of words, phrases,
acronyms, and abbreviations appropriate to videowalls, video signals, sources, displays,
control, and the products designed for use in videowall systems is defined in the following
glossary of terms.

10 arc minutes

19 arc minutes

Arc Minutes
A unit of angular measurement used to describe how much of a
viewer’s vision is occupied by an object. An arc minute is equal to
1/60 of a degree, with 360 degrees comprising a complete circle.

External Video Data Outputs

Inputs

Unidirectional High-speed Video Bus

Intra-system Data

Bidirectional PCI or PCI Express Bus

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
1080i
Interlaced HDTV transmission standard. Refers to an active pixel rate
of 1920x1080 with a vertical refresh rate of up to 60 fields (30 frames)
per second for NTSC countries or 50 fields (25 frames) per second for
PAL/SECAM countries.
1080p
Progressive-scan HDTV standard. Refers to an active pixel rate
of 1920x1080 with a vertical refresh rate of up to 60 frames per
second for NTSC countries or 50 frames per second for PAL/
SECAM countries. 1080p is often stated with an associated frames
per second rate, such as: 1080p24 (24 fps, progressive), 1080p30
(30 fps, progressive) and 1080p60 (60 fps, progressive). 1080p is
extremely rare in broadcasting; for example, the ATSC standard
provides bandwidth sufficient only for 1080p24 and 1080p30. Blu‑ray
and other pre-recorded high definition schemes can support full
1080p60 content playback.
2:2 Film Detection
The ability to determine whether PAL video has been converted from
film using 2:2 pulldown. Film material with 2:2 pulldown may result in
artifacts and jaggies when the video signal is deinterlaced. By using
2:2 film detection to determine if the material originated from film and
was converted to PAL, the video processing algorithm can be used
to optimize any video for deinterlacing so that the images are free
of artifacts.
2:2 Pulldown
See “2:2 film detection.”
3:2 Pulldown
The process of matching the frame rate of film (24 frames per second)
to the frame rate of NTSC video (30 frames per second). In 3:2
pulldown, one frame of film is converted to three fields (1 ½ frames)
of video, and the next frame of film is converted to two fields (1 frame)
of video. This cadence is repeated (3 fields, 2 fields, 3 fields, 2 fields.)
until the film is fully converted to a video of approximately the
same duration.
3:2 Pulldown Detection
A sophisticated technology in Extron scalers used to detect the
presence of a 3:2 pulldown that helps maximize image detail and
sharpness. When film-originated material is detected, this technology
applies video processing algorithms that optimize image reproduction
and avoids causing jaggies.
3G-SDI
A signal standard for serial digital, high definition video with
1920x1080 resolution and a 50 Hz or 60 Hz progressive frame
rate. Up to 32 audio channels can be carried as ancillary data. 3G
stands for three gigabits per second, which is twice the bit rate of the
1.485 Gbps HD-SDI signal.
4:1:1 Color Space
Chroma, or color information is sampled at one-fourth the horizontal
resolution of the luminance, or black and white information.
4:2:0 Color Space
Chroma, or color information is sampled at half the vertical and
half the horizontal resolution of the luminance, or black and
white information.
­94 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
4:2:2 Color Space
Color information is sampled at half the horizontal resolution of the
luminance, black and white information. 4:2:2 color sampling is
popular in high-quality broadcast video systems.
4:4:4 Color Space
Color information is sampled at the same rate as the luminance,
black and white information. Video systems designed for capturing
real images typically quantize color information at one-fourth to
one‑half the detail of luminance information. This is acceptable for real
images, where sharp, on-off transitions between colors do not occur.
Computer graphic pictures contain sharp, pixel transitions and require
maintenance of 4:4:4 color space. Otherwise, information is lost.
4K
Digital cinema resolution at 4096x2160 pixels. Frame rates can range
from 24 to 120 fps. 4K is often mentioned along with Ultra HD, which
has a video resolution of 3840x2160.
720p
Progressive-scan HDTV transmission standard. Refers to an active
pixel rate of 1280x720 with a vertical refresh rate of 60 frames per
second for NTSC countries or 50 frames per second for PAL/SECAM
countries. The 720p standard also allows refresh rates of 24, 25, and
30 frames per second.
8K
An image or display resolution of 7680x4320. This is the highest
resolution defined in the Rec. 2020 standard, which defines various
aspects of ultra-high-definition television.
A
Aliasing
(1) Aliasing occurs when smooth curves and lines become rough or
jagged because of a lower resolution device, or by an event.
(2) In analog video, aliasing is typically caused by interference
between the luma and chroma frequencies or between the chroma
and field scanning frequencies. It appears as a moiré or herringbone
pattern, straight lines that become wavy, or rainbow colors.
(3) In digital video, insufficient sampling or poor filtering of the signal
causes aliasing. Defects typically appear as jagged edges on diagonal
lines and twinkling or brightening in picture detail.
Analog
A continuously varying action or movement that takes time to change
from one position to another. An analog signal has an infinite number
of levels between its highest and lowest value (unlike digital, in which
changes are in discrete steps).
ANSI lumen
The common unit of measurement for the light output of a projector,
as measured by ANSI, the American National Standards Institute. The
higher the ANSI lumen rating, the brighter the projector. In general,
there needs to be about a 30% differential in the ANSI lumen rating
before the human eye can really notice an appreciable difference in
brightness when two projectors are shown side by side. Determining
the lumen output for a given application depends on five factors, (1)
the level of ambient room light, (2) the size of the audience, (3) the size
of the projected image, (4) the quality of the projection screen, and (5)
the amount of detail in the presentation material. Also see “Lumen.”
AV Glossary
Antialiasing
A technique in computer graphics for smoothing jagged edges
by blending shades of color or gray along the edges. Some
video devices, such as character generators, have an antialiasing
feature to minimize aliasing through filtering and other techniques.
Also see “Aliasing.”
Arc minutes
A unit of angular measurement used to describe how much of a
viewer’s vision is occupied by an object. An arc minute is equal to
1/60th of a degree, with 360 degrees comprising a complete circle.
Aspect ratio
The relationship of the horizontal dimension to the vertical dimension
of an image. In viewing screens, standard TV is 4:3, or 1.33:1; HDTV
is 16:9, or 1.78:1. Sometimes the “:1” is implicit, making TV = 1.33
and HDTV = 1.78.
ATMS
Advanced Traffic Management Systems. Specialized systems that
integrate technology to improve the safety and flow of traffic on
public roadways. Such systems serve to reduce fuel consumption
and environmental cost, while increasing economic efficiency for a
transportation infrastructure or geographic region. Real-time traffic
data from cameras, speed sensors, etc. are typically integrated into
a TMC - Traffic Management Center for the purposes of incident
detection. TMC staff will dispatch public safety or maintenance
services, manage traffic routing or messaging, or undertake other
actions to improve the flow of traffic.
AVoIP (Audio Video over Internet Protocol)
Audio Video over Internet Protocol – AVoIP – AV over IP – is a
method of transmitting digital audio and video over standard network
switching and routing equipment. The digital audio and video are
broken into segments and encapsulated in standard internet protocol
packet headers. These Internet Protocol or IP packets can then be
carried from a transmitter to a receiver over standard networking
equipment across a local network or over the Internet. Modern AVoIP
systems typically include the exchange of additional data such as
USB, RS-232, IR, and control signals along with the audio and video.
These systems commonly incorporate encoders and decoders to
compress and decompress the audio, video, and data to improve
network efficiency.
B had three guns – one for each red, green and blue color.
Bandwidth
Capacity or available bandwidth in bit/s, which typically means the net
bit rate, channel capacity, or the maximum throughput of a logical or
physical communication path in a digital communication system.
Black level
More commonly referred to as “brightness,” the black level is the
level of light produced on a video screen. The level of a picture signal
corresponding to the maximum limit of black peaks. The bottom
portion of the video wave form, which contains the sync, blanking,
and control signals. The black level is set by the brightness control.
Blu-ray Disc
An optical disc storage medium developed by Sony as an alternative
to DVDs. Blu-ray is capable of storing high definition video, audio,
and data with a capacity up to 50 GB per disc. Blu-ray players are
backward-compatible, supporting playback of standard DVDs and
audio CDs.
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.
C
C2
Command and Control. An organization of personnel, equipment,
communications, facilities, and procedures managed by a command
structure for planning, directing, coordinating, and controlling forces
and operations in the accomplishment of a mission. There are
variants of the C2 acronym which incorporate subordinate activities,
including: C2I - Command, Control and Intelligence; C2ISR -
Command, Control, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance;
C3I - Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence; and C4I
- Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence.
CAT 5
Category 5. Describes the network cabling standard that consists
of four unshielded twisted pairs of copper wire terminated by
RJ-45 connectors. CAT 5 cabling supports data rates up to
100 Mbps. CAT 5 is based on the EIA/TIA 568 Commercial Building
Telecommunications Wiring Standard.
Cathode ray tube
A vacuum tube that produces light when energized by the electron
beam generated inside the tube. A CRT has a heated cathode
and grids in the neck of the tube, making up the “gun”. Electrons
are accelerated from the gun toward the front surface of the tube
(screen), producing a beam. The surface on the back of the screen
is coated with phosphors that light up when struck by the electron
beam. The CRT in a TV is known as the picture tube. CRT projectors
Chrominance (chroma or C for short)
The signal used in video systems to convey color information
separately from the accompanying luma signal (or Y for short).
Chrominance may be represented as either a single signal or
as two signals. S-video comprises one chrominance signal and
one luminance signal, while component video comprises two
chrominance signals and one luminance signal.
Client
A computer or network device that uses information supplied by
a server.
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AV Glossary

Color depth CVT

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
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 power, results in a resolution of over 16 million colors.
Coordinated Video Timings. A VESA standard defining signal timing
information for computer-video signals. Signal parameters are
determined using a formula based on horizontal and vertical blanking
intervals, horizontal frequency, vertical frequency, and horizontal and
vertical sync polarity. CVT superseded the GTF standard.

Component digital
Digital video using separate color components, such as Y, Cb,
D
Cr. Digital recording formats such as D1 (Sony, BTS/Philips) and
Digital
D5 (Panasonic) utilize component digital recording technology.
A system of data or image values in the form of discrete, non-
Component digital is the digital representation of the component
continuous codes, such as binary. When data is in a digital format,
analog signal set, Y, B-Y, R-Y; it is often represented as 4:2:2. The
it can be processed, stored (recorded), and reproduced easily while
encoding parameters are specified by ITU-R BT.601-2 (formerly
maintaining its original integrity.
known as CCIR 601).
DisplayPort
Component video
A digital audio/video interconnect standard designed primarily for use
Color television systems start with three channels of information: red,
between a computer and display device. DisplayPort supports data
green, and blue (RGB). In the process of translating these channels
rates up to 10.8 Gbps at a distance of two meters over standard
to a single composite video signal, they are often first converted
copper cable. DisplayPort is not directly compatible with DVI or HDMI,
to Y, R-Y, and B-Y. Both three-channel systems, RGB and Y, R-Y,
but a DisplayPort connector can pass these signals, and the standard
B-Y, are component video signals. They are the components that
does provide an emulation mode for ease of integration with DVI or
eventually make up the composite video signal. Higher quality
HDMI equipped products.
program production is possible if the elements are assembled in the
component domain.
Distribution amplifier
A device that distributes multiple outputs from a single source
Composite video
input. Distribution Amplifiers (DAs) not only split signals, but provide
An all-in-one video signal comprised of the luma (black and white),
amplification and enhancement features to maintain signal integrity.
chroma (color), blanking pulses, sync pulses, and color burst.
DLP®
Compression
Digital Light Processing. An imaging technology for video projection
The art and science of reducing the amount of data required to
developed by Texas Instruments, based on the modulation of light
represent a picture or a stream of pictures and sound before sending
reflected from mirror elements known as Micromirrors™. Each pixel
or storing it. Compression systems are designed to eliminate
is represented by its own Micromirror, which mechanically tilts in
redundant or visually imperceptible information to the desired data
accordance to the extent of light reflected toward or away from
level while allowing the original information to be reproduced at the
the screen. A matrix of Micromirrors comprising the video image is
desired quality.
situated on a microchip, or DMD™ (Digital Micromirror Device). DLP
is implemented as a three-chip configuration (one DMD for each of
Contrast
the RGB colors), or as a one-chip configuration (R, G, and B are
The range of light and dark values in a picture, or the ratio between
sequentially processed by a single DMD via a color wheel).
the maximum and the minimum brightness values. It is also the name
of a TV monitor adjustment, which increases or decreases the level of
DMT
contrast of a displayed picture. Also called “white level.”
Display Monitor Timing. A VESA standard defining signal timing
information for computer-video signals. DMT was superseded by the
Contrast ratio
GTF standard.
The ratio of a display’s highest light output level divided by its lowest
light output level.
Dual-link DVI
Dual-link DVI supports 2 x 165 MHz (2048x1536 at 60 Hz,
Crosshatch
1920x1080 at 85 Hz). A dual-link implementation utilizes all 24 of
A test pattern consisting of vertical and horizontal lines used for
the available pins. A dual-link DVI output has two TMDS links and
converging a color display device.
twice the bandwidth of single-link DVI, and can therefore support
much higher resolutions. With two TMDS links, the number of
CRT
data channels is doubled, although there is still only one clock
See “cathode ray tube”.
signal, so both links are clocked identically. Apple’s 30 inch Cinema
Display, with a native resolution of 2560x1600, is an example of a
display requiring dual-link DVI.

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DVD
Digital Versatile Disc. An optical disc similar in physical size to a
CD-ROM, but capable of storing an entire movie. The technology
uses MPEG-2 compression. Typical capacity for these discs is
4.5 GB, or about 133 minutes of digital video.
DVI
Digital Visual Interface. The digital video connectivity standard that
was developed by DDWG (Digital Display Working Group). This
connection standard offers two different connectors: one with
24 pins that handles digital video signals only, and one with 29
pins that handles both digital and analog video. This standard uses
TDMS (Transition-Minimized Differential Signaling) from Silicon Image
and DDC (Display Data Channel) from VESA (Video Electronics
Standards Association).
DVI-D
DVI connector that supports digital signals only.
DVI-I
DVI connector that supports both digital and analog signals.
E its surface. The grooves act like prisms to bend and focus light.
EBU
European Broadcast Union. A confederation of radio and television
stations from over 50 European, Middle Eastern, African, and Asian
countries, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Among the services
provided by the EBU are the exchange of audiovisual content for
news production and co-production, and transmission services for
sports, music, and other live events.
Edge blended projection
An approach to delivering a seamless image from multiple projectors.
This is achieved by aligning the images from adjacent projectors so
the images overlap each other, typically by 20%. The overlapped
region is then adjusted for color and brightness to match the non-
overlapped areas, with the goal of creating the appearance of a
single, continuous image.
EDID
Extended Display Identification Data. EDID is a data structure used
to communicate video display information, including native resolution
and vertical interval refresh rate requirements, to a source device.
The source device will then output the optimal video format for the
display based on the provided EDID data, ensuring proper video
image quality. This communication takes place over the DDC –
Display Data Channel.
EOC
Emergency Operations Center. A facility run by national or regional
governments and public safety organizations. EOCs are used to
monitor critical situations.
Ethernet
A Local Area Network (LAN) standard officially known as IEEE 802.3.
Ethernet and other LAN technologies are used for interconnecting
computers, printers, workstations, terminals, servers, etc. within
the same building or campus. Ethernet operates over twisted pair
and over coaxial cable at speeds starting at 10 Mbps. For LAN
interconnectivity, Ethernet is a physical link and data link protocol
reflecting the two lowest layers of the OSI Reference Model.
F
Foot candle
A unit of illumination from one candle at a distance of one foot. Equal
to one lumen incident to one square foot.
Frame
In interlaced video, a frame is one complete picture. A video frame is
made up of two fields, or two sets of interlaced lines. In film, a frame
is one still picture of a series that makes up a motion picture.
Fresnel lens
A thin, flat lens made by cutting concentric circular grooves into
The Fresnel lens is often used for the condenser lens in overhead
projectors and in studio spotlights.
Front projection screen
A light-reflecting screen used when the image is projected from a
source in front of the screen. Also see “Rear projection screen.”
Front screen projection - To project an image from the audience’s side
of a light-reflecting screen.
G
Gamma
The light output of a CRT is not linear with respect to voltage input.
The difference between what you should have and what is actually
output is known as gamma.
Gamma correction
Before being displayed, the linear RGB data must be processed
(gamma corrected) to compensate for the gamma of the display.
GTF
Generalized Timing Formula. A VESA standard defining signal timing
information for computer-video signals. Signal parameters are
determined using a formula based on horizontal and vertical blanking
intervals, horizontal frequency, vertical frequency, and horizontal and
vertical sync polarity. GTF was superseded by the CVT standard.
GUI
Graphical User Interface. The visual element of an operating system
or device that serves as the user interface. GUIs are seen in computer
applications, web sites, and touchpanel interfaces.
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H I
H.264 encoding
A standard for video compression equivalent to MPEG-4 Part 10
or MPEG-4 AVC - Advanced Video Coding. H.264 was created to
provide video quality suitable for high definition applications at bit
rates lower than that utilized in MPEG-2, the compression standard
used in DVD authoring.
HD
High Definition.
HDCP
High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection. A digital rights
management scheme developed by Intel to prevent the copying
of digital video and audio content. HDCP is mandatory for the
HDMI interface, optional for DVI. HDCP defines three basic system
components: source, sink, and repeater.
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.
Sinks decrypt the content so it can be viewed. Sink is typically used
to describe a flat panel display, television, or projector. Sinks can have
one or more HDCP receivers.
Repeaters sit between Sources and Sinks. They accept content,
decrypt it, then re-encrypt and transmit. Internally, a Repeater may
provide signal processing, such as scaling, splitting out audio for use
in an analog audio playback system, or splitting the input data stream
for simultaneous viewing on multiple displays. Switchers, matrix
switchers, and distribution amplifiers are all examples of Repeaters.
HDMI
An interface for the digital transmission of high-resolution video, multi-
channel audio, and control signals, over a single cable. HDMI is the
de facto standard for consumer level video sources and displays.
HD-SDI
The high-definition version of SDI specified in SMPTE-292M. This
signal standard transmits audio and video with 10 bit depth and
4:2:2 color quantization over a single coaxial cable with a data rate
of 1.485 Gbps. Multiple video resolutions exist including progressive
1280x720 and interlaced 1920x1080 resolution. Up to 32 audio
signals are carried in the ancillary data.
HDTV
High Definition Television. HDTV refers to a complete product/system
with the following minimum performance attributes: a receiver that
receives ATSC terrestrial digital transmissions and decodes all ATSC
Table 3 video formats; a display scanning format with active vertical
scanning lines of 720 progressive (720p), 1080 interlaced (1080i), or
higher; aspect ratio capabilities for displaying a 16:9 image; receives
and reproduces, and/or outputs Dolby Digital audio.
High definition video
Refers to any video system of higher resolution than standard
definition (SD) video, and most commonly involves display resolutions
of 1280×720 pixels (720p) or 1920×1080 pixels (1080i/1080p).
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Illuminance
The light density (the luminous flux divided by area) shining onto a
surface. This is the specification that measures how bright a screen is
lit by a projector or ambient light. The unit is lux. 1 lux = 1 lumen/m2.
Interlacing
Interlacing is the process of scanning the picture onto a video screen
whereby the lines of one scanned field fall evenly between the lines of
the preceding field.
IP
Internet Protocol. The protocol or standard used to send information
from one computer to another on the Internet.
IP address
A numerical label that is assigned to devices in a network that use
Internet Protocol. The IP address for the source and destination are
included in an IP datagram.
ISO OSI Model
The ISO open systems interconnection model represents the
functions of a communication system as seven layers. Each layer
interacts only with the layer directly above or below itself. The seven
layers are 1) physical, 2) data link, 3) network, 4) transport, 5) session,
6) presentation, and 7) application.
ISR
Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance. Activities relevant to
information gathering methods applied in the observation of a criminal
or enemy area of operations, in support of current and future military
or law enforcement operations.
ITS
Intelligent Transportation Systems. Specialized systems that apply
technology and intelligence to enable improved services in various
modes of transportation and traffic management. Such systems
make better information available, resulting in safer, more efficient use
of transportation systems.
ITU-R Recommendation BT.2020
Defines parameters of ultra-high-definition television (UHDTV)
including picture resolutions, frame rates with progressive scan, bit
depths, color primaries, RGB and luma-chroma color representations,
chroma subsamplings, and an opto-electronic transfer function.
Commonly referred to as Rec. 2020 or BT.2020. The first version of
Rec. 2020 was posted on the International Telecommunication Union
(ITU) website on August 23, 2012.
L
Landscape
Orientation of a display device so that it is wider than it is tall. This is
the common orientation for a display.
AV Glossary
Latency
A measure of time delay experienced in a system, the precise
definition of which depends on the system and the time being
measured. In video processing or encoding products, it is a measure
of the amount of time used to process an input signal. In a packet
switched network it is measured either one-way (the time from the
source sending a packet to the destination receiving it), or round-trip
(the one-way latency from source to destination plus the one-way
latency from the destination back to the source).
Layer 2 switch
Layer 2 switches support functions of the second layer of the ISO
OSI Model. Layer 2 switches provide hardware switching and switch
packets between connected devices. A table is built into each switch
based on the physical MAC address of connected devices. A Layer 2
switch does not examine IP packets.
Layer 3 switch
Layer 3 network switches support functions of the third layer of the
ISO model. They examine network packets and make switching and
routing decisions based on information in the Ethernet packets. They
are used in networked audio and video network delivery systems
and large or complex internetworks, such as the Internet. Layer 3
switches support packet routing, VLANs and IGMP-snooping, and
multicast data stream delivery.
LCD
Liquid Crystal Display. A panel that utilizes two transparent sheets
of polarizing material with a liquid containing rod-shaped crystals
between them. When a current is applied to specific pixel-like areas,
those crystals align to create dark images. The dark areas are
combined with light areas to create text and images on the panel.
LCD panels do not emit light but are often back-lit or side-lit for
better viewing.
LCD projector
Utilizing LCD panel technology, these projectors separate the red,
green, and blue information to three different LCD panels. Since
LCD panels do not produce color, the appropriate colored light is
then passed through each panel and combined to exit through the
projector lens and onto a viewing screen.
LED
Light Emitting Diode. A semiconductor device that emits incoherent,
narrow-spectrum light within the p-n junction.
Lenticular screen
A screen designed to reflect maximum light over wide horizontal and
narrow vertical angles. It must be held very flat to avoid hot spots.
A large series of parallel lenticulations cut vertically into the screen
surface improve horizontal dispersion.
Luma
Also called Luminance. The photometric radiance of a light source.
The luma signal represents brightness in a video picture. Luma
is any value between black and white and is abbreviated as “Y.”
Also see “Chroma.”
Lumen
The unit of measure for luminous flux, or light emitted from a
source, such as a projector. Projector light output is commonly
specified in ANSI lumens, which is the average of several light level
measurements at various locations on the screen.
Luminance
The light density coming out of a surface. This is the specification for
measuring the brightness of a projection screen or a display device’s
surface. The SI unit is “cd/m2” (candles per square meter), also called
a “nit.” Luminance is notated as “foot-lambert” when using English
standard measurements, where One foot-lambert = 3.426 cd/m2.
Lux
The unit of measure for light incident on a surface area, also known as
illuminance. One Lux - lx equals 1 lumen per square meter - lm/m2.
M
Matrix switcher
A switcher with multiple inputs and multiple outputs. A matrix switcher
allows an input source to be connected to one or more outputs.
M-JPEG
Motion JPEG or M-JPEG is a method of video compression
that applies the discrete cosine transform to each video frame
independently. No temporal compression is applied and no frame
interdependence exists as with MPEG compression. Each video
frame is encoded as though it is an MPEG I-frame. Editing and
random access are easily facilitated in product designs applying
M-JPEG.
MPEG-2
The second generation standard for compression of audio and video
applying the discrete cosine transform. The standard includes a
combination of lossy video and audio compression methods which
permit storage and transmission of movies using currently available
storage media and transmission bandwidth. Commonly used for
digital television transmission, DVD, and other similar equipment.
MPEG-4
Similar to MPEG-2, but with a much greater ability to scale to
different compression rates and resolutions. MPEG-4 is suitable for
applications ranging from low bit-rate streaming video applications for
videoconferencing and cell phone video delivery, to high bit-rate high
definition television production systems.
Mullion
The physical bezel surrounding the screen of a display device.
Stacking display devices to form a videowall creates a criss-
cross pattern of space between the active screen areas, with the
appearance of mullions in a window pane.
Multicast
Multicast addressing is a network technology for one-to-many
communication over an IP infrastructure in a network. Multicast uses
network infrastructure efficiently as the source sends packets only
once, regardless of the number of receivers. Network nodes replicate
packets to reach multiple receivers, minimizing network traffic.
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AV Glossary
N Portrait
Native resolution
Refers to the single fixed resolution of an LCD, plasma, or other fixed
matrix display. An image said to match the native resolution of a
display is one where pixels between the image source and display are
perfectly aligned and require no scaling or other signal processing.
Nit
A unit of measurement of luminance, or the amount of light leaving
a surface in a specific direction. One nit is equal to one candela per
square meter - cd/m2. Nits are commonly used when specifying the
brightness of flat-panel displays and videowall projection cubes.
NOC
Network Operations Center. A facility used to monitor and manage
system operations for telecommunications and network providers.
Noise
Any unwanted signal that adversely affects the quality of the picture
or sound.
NTSC
National Television System Committee. The analog television system
used in most of North America, South America, Japan, South Korea,
Taiwan, Burma, and some Pacific island nations and territories.
O R
Overscan
The result when active picture area extends past the boundaries of
the display screen.
P processing latency, or frames are dropped.
PAL
Phase Alternating Line. An analog television encoding system used
in broadcast television systems primarily in Europe, Asia, Africa, and
Australia.
PC
Personal Computer.
PCB
Printed Circuit Board.
Pixel
Picture Element. The smallest unit or area of a video screen image
that can be turned on or off, or varied in intensity.
Pixel density
The number of pixels per unit area on a screen. Pixel density is
commonly expressed as pixels per inch - PPI.
Pixel resolution
In computer graphics and video images, the number of pixels in the
display. For example, a picture with 1024x768 pixels is much sharper,
or has higher resolution, than a picture with 640x480 pixels. The total
number of pixels is the product of these two numbers.
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Orientation of a display device so that it is taller than it is wide.
PPI
Pixels per Inch. PPI is a common unit of measurement for
pixel density.
Progressive scan
A method by which all video scan lines within a frame are presented
on the screen in one pass instead of two. Typically denoted by the
letter “p”, as in “480p,” which indicates a signal with 480 active lines
running at 60 frames per second.
Protocol
A set of agreed-upon standards that define the format, order, timing,
handshaking, and error checking method for data transfer between
two pieces of equipment.
PURE3 Codec
A codec which is capable of encoding and streaming both video and
computer graphic inputs and a wide variety of resolutions, preserving
equal quality for both signal formats. It preserves a balance between
three performance factors low latency, low bandwidth and high
image quality. The PURE3 Codec has been optimized for use on IP
networks which are acknowledged to be lossy. The codec includes
an error concealment system which is highly resistant to network
errors without using forward error correction.
Real-time
A video system is said to be real-time if it outputs motion content that
is synchronized with the input signal, and at the original refresh rate.
Systems are generally not considered to be real-time if there is some
Rear projection screen
A translucent screen with a special coating that allows an image to be
projected through the screen from the rear, instead of from the front.
Redundancy
Repeated data or equipment which provides a backup if the primary
data or equipment fails.
RGB
Red, Green, and Blue. The chroma information in a video signal. The
basic components of the color television system. They are also the
primary colors of light in the additive color process.
RGBHV
Red, Green, Blue, Horizontal and Vertical Sync. A five-wire signal
where the red, green, and blue video signals, as well as the horizontal
and vertical sync signals each travel over its own conductor.
RGBS
The Red, Green, and Blue chroma information in a video signal, with
a separate channel for the combined horizontal and vertical sync
signals.
AV Glossary

RGsB Server
Red, Green, Blue, and Sync on Green. A three-wire signal with A computer 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 computer.
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 higher
SMPTE
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 created
The programs used to instruct a processor and its peripheral
in order for the original image to fill the screen. Alternately, to fit a
equipment to perform prescribed operations.
1280x1024 SXGA resolution image on an XGA resolution screen, the
image will need to be scaled “down;” pixels need to be removed from
SOC
the original image in order for it to fit on the screen. There are many
Security Operations Center. A location within a building where staff
different methods for image scaling, and some produce better results
monitors and manages security-related tasks for an organization. This
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
occurring inside an SCIF is restricted from public disclosure.
Switched fabric
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
10 bit depth and 4:2:2 color quantization. Ancillary data is included
exceeds XGA (1024x768, at 786,432 pixels).
and typically is comprised of audio or other metadata. Up to sixteen
audio channels can be transmitted. Audio is organized into blocks of
four stereo pairs.

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SXGA+
Super Extended Graphics Array Plus. Commonly used on 14 inch or
15 inch laptop LCD screens with a resolution of 1400×1050 pixels.
T
Thumbnail
A small representation of a larger image.
Time code
A digital or binary code used to label each frame of a video signal,
notated by hours, minutes, seconds, and frames. Used extensively
for synchronization, and for logging, identifying, and editing
recorded media.
TMC
Transportation Management Centers. Facilities where real-time traffic
data from cameras, speed sensors, and other data are integrated
for the purposes of incident detection and the management of
regional traffic. TMC staff is responsible for identifying incidents and
dispatching public safety or maintenance services, messaging, or
other actions to improve the flow of traffic.
Touchpanel
A control panel with a flat surface (usually with graphic divisions
or buttons) that functions as a switch or control. Also called
a “touchscreen.”
U may be connected to the same physical system.
UHD
See “Ultra HD.”
UHP
Ultra High Performance. A mercury arc lamp technology developed
by Philips in 1995 for use in commercial and consumer projectors.
Ultra HD
Video resolution at 3840x2160 pixels, with frame rates from 24 to
60 fps. Ultra HD is often mentioned along with 4K.
Underscan
A decreasing of the raster size (H and V) so that all four edges of the
picture are visible on the screen. Underscanning allows viewing of
skew and tracking that would not be visible in normal (overscanned)
mode. It is also helpful when aligning test charts to be certain they
touch all four corners of the raster. Likewise, when checking the
alignment of multiplexer images from a film chain, underscan allows
proper framing of projected images going into the video camera.
Unicast
The sending of messages to a single network destination host on
a packet switching network. Sending a separate copy of the media
stream from the server to each recipient.
USB
Universal Serial Bus. Up to 127 external computer devices may
be added through a USB hub. USB devices can be attached or
detached without removing computer power.
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UXGA
Ultra Extended Graphics Array. 1600x1200. A UXGA display has
1600 horizontal pixels and 1200 vertical pixels giving a total display
resolution of 1,920,000 individual pixels.
V
VESA
Video Electronics Standards Association. A nonprofit member
organization dedicated to facilitating and promoting personal
computer graphics through improved standards for the benefit of the
end-user.
VGA
Video Graphics Array. A widely used analog interface between a
computer and monitor that uses a 15-pin plug and socket. The
original VGA resolution was 640x480 pixels.
Video
A format for transmitting and storing moving pictures. Video is
transmitted and stored in various analog and digital physical formats.
VLAN
Virtual LAN. A group of devices on a network with a common set of
requirements that communicate as if they were attached to the same
broadcast domain, regardless of their physical location. A VLAN
is a Layer 3 network function. A group of network devices can be
grouped together into a functionally separate logical network. VLAN
and their network traffic will be segmented from other devices that
Videowall
A grouping of display devices to produce a single image across the
array, or visually subdivided to show multiple images simultaneously.
The display array is typically driven by a video processor that provides
a separate output to each display.
W
WXGA
“Wide-XGA” defines a class of XGA displays with a width resolution
sufficient to create an aspect ratio of 16:9. Resolution is defined as
the number of individual dots that a display uses to create an image.
These dots are called pixels. A WXGA display has 1366 to 1280
horizontal pixels and 768 to 720 vertical pixels respectively that are
used to compose the image delivered by the projector.
X
XGA
Extended Graphics Array. A screen resolution of 1024x768 pixels.
Y
YUV
Defines color space in terms of Y – luminance or brightness, and two
color-difference components, U - red minus luminance and V - blue
minus luminance. YUV is interchangeable with “Y Cb Cr” for digital
component video and “Y Pb Pr” for analog component video.
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