Every AV enthusiast can benefit from a matrix switcher in their presentation setup. These useful bits of kit are the secret brain to any engaging presentation, generating effects and ensuring that all content across relevant technologies.
But what is a matrix switcher and how do we make sure we select the right one for our AV system? Well, that’s where we come in. At DEXON, we pride ourselves in supplying a high-quality AV kit that is suited to your needs, so we know how important it is that you’re fully clued up on what a matrix switcher is. That’s why we’re going to take you through a comprehensive guide to all things matrix switching.
In this article, we discuss what a matrix switcher is, where they’re most useful, their benefits, how they operate and how to select the perfect one for your AV system.
So, whether you’re a total tech know-it-all, or you’re so new you didn’t even know there were such things as video walls, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s go!
What is a matrix switcher?
Before we get too excited, let’s get the facts straight. What is a matrix switcher? Well, a matrix switcher is essentially the central nervous system of a sophisticated AV project. Matrix switchers process all the necessary information like video and audio and distribute them to your chosen display technology. For example, if you’re using your matrix switcher with a video wall and a controller, your seamless matrix switcher is the final step before displaying the content on the screen.
Some matrix switcher brands also generate some pretty cool effects like scaling up and down, fading in and out and seamless switching. If you want to add a little sparkle to your AV project, then you know what you need to do!
Where do we use a matrix switcher?
In simple terms, anywhere that could benefit from interactive presentation technology or just a bit more clarity on the information could use a matrix switcher. Matrix switchers are super useful in some pretty surprising settings, you may have even come across a few yourself. Here’s a list of settings where a matrix switcher could be useful:
Transport
Transport settings are just too confusing, aren’t they? Well, confusing settings are where matrix switchers come into their own. With a matrix switcher, a control room operator can seamlessly stream content onto a video wall for example and isolate different bits of information to display all the necessary information from one place. This helps to limit confusion and centralize the flow of information.
Entertainment
Those big screens streaming the big game in a sports stadium don’t just happen by accident. Sophisticated tech like matrix switches helps to ensure that everyone can have a front-row seat with a video wall. Matrix switchers ensure that live content is streamed seamlessly across devices like video walls without interruption or delay, with high-speed information distribution ensuring that users benefit from a high-quality experience.
Business
Struggling with misinformation or breakdowns of communication in the workplace? Don’t worry, this is a common problem in most working environments and is typically down to poor lines of communication and reliance on word of mouth. You could carry on relying on emails and hearing updates through the grapevine, or you could streamline your flow of information from one hub by using matrixes and video walls.
With a video wall and matrix, you can stream live updates, make announcements or distribute critical information from one point. Gone are the days of asking your colleagues what was said in the big meeting.
Surveillance
Want to live in a spy film? Well, you might just be in luck. With a matrix system, you can transform your basic surveillance system into your personal mission control room! We’re not joking with you, matrixes can connect to your surveillance cameras via a controller and remote network and stream live video to your chosen display technology. With this, you can have eyes on all the vulnerable parts of your home or business, so you’re always one step ahead of trouble.
What are the benefits of a matrix switcher?
There are so many benefits to using a matrix switcher, we honestly don’t have the space to go on about all of them. But, that doesn’t mean we won’t do our very best anyway. We’ve compiled a list of the top reasons why you might want to incorporate a matrix switcher into your AV set-up:
Optimized running
Matrix switchers substantially speed up your general operation. This means that you can benefit from a better quality experience, especially when streaming live content. This is because matrix switchers can handle large quantities of data at once without experiencing issues, significantly reducing lag and optimizing your operation. Got a time-critical task? Then you need not fear with a matrix switcher!
All-in-one operation
Does the sight of multiple devices and endless miles of cables wake you up at night in a cold sweat? Don’t worry, because with a matrix switcher, all you need is in one handy device. There’s a misconception that particularly demanding projects require extensive amounts of devices to handle large quantities of data, but this isn’t the case. A matrix switcher can process all the necessary information while distributing information and generating any desired effects, so you only need to get your hands on the essentials to create a cool AV presentation!
Sophisticated projects
Speaking of sophisticated and demanding AV projects, those of us generating projects to be seen by the masses may benefit from a matrix switcher. Demanding projects tend to require a lot of processing demand, so a matrix switcher can greatly improve your experience with speedy processing and fast distribution to the display technology of your choice.
How do they work?
Matrix switchers work with some other vital kits to generate engaging and cool projects. Typically, matrix switchers process the signals and distribute them across to the relevant display technology. This can be done in conjunction with video controllers and processors to ensure that the user processes the desired information and can optimize their AV experience. For example, a surveillance system may process the footage through a video controller before processing it through the matrix and then onto the display.
Don’t worry, it's a lot less complicated than it sounds. If you think of a display like a sequence, the image or information is captured via technology like a camera or computer, passed through a controller, onto a matrix switcher and then travels through to the video wall. In short, a matrix switcher is part of an AV project assembly line.
How to select the right one for your AV system?
The best part of most AV technologies is that you have the power to tailor your AV experience. What do we mean by that? Well, this means that you have the opportunity to select your system based on your project’s needs, not peer pressure.
In other words, you don’t need to buy expensive systems if your project doesn’t necessitate it.
This can help keep your AV set up super simple and substantially improve your user experience.
Additionally, you should also consider your own capabilities. For example, if you’re a total AV novice, you may wish to start off simple to avoid overcomplicating your setup and damaging your experience. If you’re a tech wizard who is wanting to set up their own mission control center, feel free to invest in some spy-level equipment.
And there you have it, your comprehensive guide to matrix switching.