The SmartNet-V family of switches are high-quality switching matrix for composite video signals. This basic signal format is widely used by many video products. Standard RCA connectors are used for the input as well as the output video signal. All that is required is a standard RCA video cable to connect to the signal source.
Each video switch contains a high bandwidth routing matrix for the Red, Green and Blue video channels and separate switching layers for Horizontal and Vertical Syncs. The color signals are balanced internally and combined with the syncs. This combined signal is then driven out through standard RJ45s on the front panel.
Standard SmartAVI VGA receiver units are used at the end of each CAT 5 cable to recover the signals. High quality receiver circuits incorporating cable loss compensation provide excellent results up to resolutions of 1600 x 1200 @85Hz. Compatible with all types of UTP and STP cable, the receivers can have optional internal skew compensation fitted, which solves the problem of delay errors found in the higher specification structured cabling.
IR Control
The SmartNet-V video switches allow the extension of infrared control signals via a single category 5 twisted pair cable. Using a unique method of transparent data transfer, the system allows a device (e.g. set-top box) to be situated up to 1000ft (300m) from the controller (e.g. television).
Fully compliant with standard modulated IR and the latest IRDA, the extender will provide a transparent path for all protocols and data transfers.
Matrix
The units contain a high quality routing matrix for composite video and stereo audio. Gold RCA jacks sockets on the rear of the unit connect the input signals to the matrix. Color coded jacks are used for ease of identification. Both audio and video inputs are high impedance to allow for looping inputs. This enables multiple units to be cascaded together increasing the number of users to the system. Each model in the series has looping inputs giving a convenient method of upgrading the system on site. An integral on screen display (OSD) for each output keeps the user informed of channel identification and system configuration.
Signal Distribution
All signals are distributed balanced and driven differentially, this method provides for the best immunity to external noise and interference. Sending signals balanced also minimizes emissions, as any interference transmissions from the cable are cancelled out. Pairs 1,2 and 3 of the CAT5 cable are used for video and stereo audio respectively. The 4th pair is used for the return Infrared signals from the user, which is combined with the power from the chassis and sent as a common mode signal.
Receiver unit
Each user requires a receiver unit complete with IR 'eye'and handset. There are currently 3 receiver models:
- Scart receiver and separate 'eye'
- Integral receiver
- Bulkhead mounted receiver
The Scart receiver consists of a small box with integral Scart plug, which connects directly to the television. The flying 'eye'is then placed on top of or to the side of the television so that it can pick up the IR commands from the handset when directed at the TV. Other receivers have the same specification but allow for differing installation requirements.
All that is required to view the channels is to connect a CAT5 cable to the receiver unit, the other end of which connects to an output on the chassis. No adjustments are necessary to receive the video and stereo audio as the unit provides an automatic compensation for any losses for up to 300m of cable. Power is provided through the cable eliminating the need for bulky plug-top supplies.
Handset On-Screen Menu
For ease of installation and monitoring the chassis provides an on-screen menu for each user. This feature is used to allocate names to each AV source and allow programming of all system options.
The SmartNet-V handset enables the user to switch between the various external sources. The system uses a unique IR protocol so conflicts with other devices should not occur. The handset has a multifunction feature allowing it to be programmed with other protocols. This allows the same handset to be used for multi-devices e.g. TV, VCR and STB etc.
Expansion
Multiple units can be cascaded together to form larger matrices. Looping inputs allow both the video and audio signals to be bussed to other units expanding the number of available users. The infrared control can also be cascaded by connecting the input and outputs between racks, thereby allowing all users to remotely control the source devices.
