Access IS extenders cut cost and complexity in high-resolution video and audio distribution in retail environments
Reading, UK, July, 2009 – Access IS has introduced a family of video and audio extenders that can be used to link multimedia output from a single personal computer (PC) to remote displays over low-cost CAT5, 5e, 6 or 7 data network cables. High-resolution video and CD-quality audio can be transmitted over distances up to 300 metres. The devices ideal for use in ships and shopping malls but can be used anywhere where there is a need to show VGA video content simultaneously around a building complex. Other applications include gymnasia and fitness centres, industrial premises, offices, dealing rooms, and public transport terminals such as airports and rail and bus stations.
The basic EXT Series plug-and-play system comprises a transmitter and receiver but the range includes transmitters with up to 8 ports so simultaneous, no-latency video and audio distribution to multiple monitors from one PC is simple to achieve. A point-to-point data cable forms the link between the transmitter and receiver. The signals do not route through an Ethernet network and so there is no need to install any further hardware.
Each receiver in the system can drive up to two displays – a cost-effective system where screens are positioned back-to-back, and additional transmitter-receiver combinations can be cascaded to extend the network. RS-232 support on some EXT models means that display panels can be controlled remotely allowing, for example, screens to be turned on and off in line to suit office hours. Remote interrogation allows the monitoring of screens for faults. The serial link can also be used as a touch screen input, which allows for remote positioning of a kiosk terminal, for example.
The plug and play flexibility of the EXT range allow installations of many different distribution configurations and the modularity of the products leaves options to extend the AV distribution easily. Where appropriate, the system uses existing cables but even when new cabling is needed it can eliminate the need for expensive fibre optic networking.
The EXT system delivers 1600 x 1200 pixel resolution video over distances up to 200 metres and 1280 x 1024 at up to 300 metres. In both cases video compensation and brightness correction ensure crisp, clear and bright images. Image quality is also assured through 300MHz bandwidth skew correction, which automatically compensates for the mismatch that is sometimes caused by conductor cable length differences in the twisted construction of the data cable.
Transmitters can have up to 8 ports and cascade options and each 2-output receiver can be specified with or without the cascade option.
Case sizes are 98 x 95 x 25mm or 185 x 95 x 51mm, depending on model, and indicators display the presence of power and video. Each unit is supplied with a 100-240VAC universal power adapter.
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