Videowall Systems

Design Guide
For Professional AV Systems
 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
With the ability to display a multitude of sources across a tiled array of displays, videowalls produce some of
the biggest images in the AV industry. First appearing in the late 1980s, videowalls found a home in public
spaces such as retail environments and museums. Throughout the following decades, their function shifted
from entertainment and advertising to powerful centerpieces in work environments, where high definition visual
content could be shared for critical analysis and decision-making.

Extron offers multiple videowall processing solutions including the WindoWall System, a robust solution for
managing multiple video and graphic sources on display systems with two or more screens, and the industry-
leading Quantum Series videowall processors, which provide scalable solutions for installations ranging from
small retail displays up to large, mission-critical command and control facilities, and anything in between.
Quantum videowall processors offer HDCP-compliant HDMI input and output options, ensuring compatibility
with the growing number of source devices that incorporate digital content encryption.

While videowalls continue to grow in popularity, many AV integrators can find themselves new to the task of
designing and integrating these unique display systems. By understanding each element of a videowall system,
as well as the physical aspects of the environments in which videowalls are used, you can avoid common pitfalls
in videowall design.

This Guide will be an invaluable reference to AV professionals who specify videowalls, whether frequently or
infrequently. Basic videowall concepts such as operating environments, processor features, and system control
are discussed, as well as more complex topics such as room design, font scaling and readability, and production
tips for unique videowall applications. Experienced designers will find useful technical references and visual
illustrations that will aid in communicating or comprehending technical topics that can be unique to videowall
systems. Several real-world designs provide examples of how the sources, videowall processor, displays, and
control system all come together to create a powerful visual tool for boardrooms, simulation environments, traffic
management centers, and more.

Over the past three decades, videowalls have evolved from a new technology into an essential component for
a growing number of AV environments. In the years to come, Extron will continue to deliver superior videowall
processing products that fulfill the unique requirements of videowall applications, while providing the most
comprehensive education, service, and support the industry has to offer.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Videowall Systems Design for Professional AV Systems

Introduction to Videowalls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Where are Videowalls Used? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Why a Videowall? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Reasons to Learn More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Needs Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Choosing the Right Videowall Shape and Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Choosing the Right Display Size and Resolution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Font Size and Legibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Display Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Videowall Maintenance and Cost of Ownership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Input Sources for Videowalls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Videowall Processor Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Videowall Processor Hardware Platforms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Videowall Processor Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Portrait & Landscape Orientation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Videowall System Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Additional Videowall System Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Videowall System Designs

Executive Conference Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Utility Operations Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Corporate Lobby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Corporate Presentation Auditorium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Command Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Traffic Management Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Simulation Debriefing Theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Extron Videowall Product Solutions

Small Videowall Processors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Mid-Sized Videowall Processors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Large, Scalable Videowall Processors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Glossary

AV Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Introduction to Videowalls
Videowalls are What is a Videowall?
ideal for displaying A videowall is a display and processing system
comprising an array of projectors or monitors that
large images, and
function together as a single, cohesive unit. When
simultaneously compared to a single display, a videowall typically
presenting multiple provides a much larger picture size with far
computer or video greater pixel resolution, since multiple screens are
combined to form an image. Videowalls are ideal
sources.
for displaying large images and simultaneously
presenting multiple computer or video sources.
As its name may imply, a videowall usually
dominates a significant portion of a wall.
Videowalls can be built with the same aspect
ratio of a standard display. They can be of just
about any desired shape, orientation, or form
factor. A videowall can comprise two, four, or nine
screens, or as many as 100.
How are Videowalls Used?
Videowalls are frequently used to provide
numerous sources of visual information that can
easily be viewable 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
Videowalls are used to provide attention through large images in corporate
numerous sources of information
that can be viewable by everyone
lobbies, train stations, retail locations, or other
in the room. public environments.
Los Angeles Reqional Traffic Management
Center CalTrans District 7
2 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
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 flat-panel displays and projectors,
have resulted in more videowalls being integrated
into a wider variety of installations.
What are the Essential Components of a
Videowall?
Videowall displays. Projection cubes,
projectors, LED, and LCD flat-panel displays are
used in videowalls. Projection cubes have been
the most popular choice, due to the fact that
they are modular and purpose-built for assembly
into a videowall structure, and they feature very
narrow bezels to minimize disruption of the
image. Also available are compact rear projectors
specifically for use in videowalls, designed to be
mounted in frame assemblies. Flat-panel displays
have quickly grown in popularity for videowall
installations, many with very narrow bezels
comparable to projection cubes. LED displays
deliver very high brightness and are ideal for
outdoor signage and sports environments.
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 flat-panel 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 videowalls small or large.
Videowall processors have the capacity and
bandwidth to process a large number of input
sources simultaneously, and optimize them
for presentation on the videowall 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 by placing and sizing windows
anywhere on the videowall, and then assign
input sources to them. These layouts can be
conveniently saved as presets, which the user
can recall later from the processors control
software or an AV control system.
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,
and 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 including A videowall processor
text and graphics. A videowall processor also is absolutely essential
needs to promptly respond to user commands
for any application that
without delay, even while handling a full load of
input and output signals. requires the flexibility to
window many images
Reliability. A videowall must deliver robust, on multiple screens.
continuous reliability around the clock when
installed in mission-critical environments. Any
maintenance, including parts replacement, is best
performed without disabling the entire system.
User accessibility. Videowalls are among
the most complex types of AV systems to set
up and configure. The end user likely will be a
system operator without detailed knowledge
of the videowall configuration or functions. An
intuitive user interface should be provided, such
A videowall processor provides
as a touchpanel with a simple button layout that the flexibility to customize
allows the user to easily select presets for window window layouts for displaying
several visual sources on the
layouts, or switch input sources. videowall.
UK Highways Agency Godstone
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Where are Videowalls Used?
The size, features, Videowalls were first developed in the mid-1980s,
and performance of a and found an early home in entertainment and
retail environments, where the appearance of a
videowall are dictated
big stack of TVs producing a single, cohesive
by the environment, video image on CRT screens was a guaranteed
application, and the showstopper. During the 1990s, CRT-based
intended viewing displays were joined by new imaging technologies
and the emergence of videowall processors
experience for the
with the capacity to process a variety of input
audience. and output signal formats. Together, they were
ideal for presenting the high resolution computer
55 CRT Monitor Pyramid graphic formats that were quickly becoming
Videowall
commonplace, as well as high definition video as
it emerged throughout the 1990s.
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
standard definition video, high definition video,
computer graphic sources, and IP streamed
content, producing extremely flexible information
850 CRT Monitor Videowall
display systems.
Videowalls are now used in many different
ways in public and work spaces. For each of
these spaces, there are many different types
of environments, each with unique application
Videowalls are a standard fixture in command and control rooms.
Northern Command
Command and Control Center
4 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
needs. The size, features, and performance of
a videowall are dictated by the environment,
application, and the intended viewing experience
for the audience.
Working 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 visual information. Videowalls
in these environments typically present a wide
variety of classified and unclassified sources
to aid in information monitoring and decision-
making. Standard definition camera feeds, high
definition satellite news broadcasts, legacy
analog computer-video, digital video, map files,
and other sources are typically displayed on a
12 to 18-screen videowall, managed by a shift
supervisor.
Projection cubes have historically been the
display device of choice in command and
control rooms, providing large screen sizes with
very narrow bezels, but LCD flat-panel displays
have quickly become very popular. Command
and control rooms are among the most
demanding environments for videowall displays
and processors, necessitating very high quality
upscaling and downscaling of mission-critical,
high resolution source content, and continuous
24/7 reliability.
Situation Rooms
Situation rooms serve functions similar to
command and control rooms, though on a smaller
scale. A small videowall, usually comprising six
to eight cubes or LCD panels, displays updates
on emerging situations, sourced from satellite
news, 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 definition video or full-
motion computer graphics sourced from real-
time image generators, these videowalls
simultaneously display views from each vehicle
in an exercise, creating a cohesive overview of
participant interaction in the simulation.
camera feeds. Attention can be drawn to a Command and control
critical event by magnifying an individual feed as rooms are among
a large, centrally located image on the videowall,
the most demanding
surrounded by supporting information. The ability
to simultaneously present large numbers of video environments for
sources is a crucial feature for these systems. videowall displays
and processors,
Emergency Operations Centers
necessitating very high
Emergency operations centers - EOCs are
facilities run by national or regional governments quality upscaling and
and public safety organizations. Videowalls in downscaling of mission-
EOCs allow staff to monitor critical situations by critical, high resolution
displaying news broadcasts, graphical maps, and
source content, and
computer sources, which provide the location
and status of real-time regional or international continuous 24/7
events. Videowall processors in EOCs must be reliability.
capable of simultaneously presenting a variety
of source formats, such as standard video, high
A videowall is effective in providing an overview of all the
visual elements in a simulation event.
Thales Catalyst Center
Simulation

Projectors with edge blending, 4K projectors,

and projection cubes are the typical display Videowalls are commonly used in surveillance and traffic management centers to present
camera feeds, maps, and other information.
devices of choice, since 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 corporate or university campuses, or
public safety or government agencies. Videowalls
in these environments display maps, data
London Metropolitan Police Service
screens, and large numbers of video or IP camera Security and Traffic Management
feeds. Routine activity includes monitoring
www.extron.com 5
Where are Videowalls Used?
A corporate lobby of a definition video, computer graphics, and locally
technology-based firm stored images such as maps.
is a popular location
Utility and Network Operations Centers
for a videowall, where Utilities and network operations centers - NOCs
a stylish video display monitor and manage large complex operations
becomes a reflection of for private or public utilities, refineries, or
telecommunication and network providers. NOC
both the creativity and
videowalls typically display specialized software
innovation that exists applications for supervisory control and data
beyond the waiting acquisition - SCADA systems, presenting data
area. as well as charts, plots, and other graphical
information. Software client or screen capture
applications may also be used to present
information on the videowall. Projection cubes
or display systems with thin seams or no seams
are frequently used in NOCs, so that the detailed
graphical system data will be presented clearly as
it spans several displays.
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 PC and video sources. Rear-projection
systems are often used, sometimes configured
A corporate lobby is a popular
location for a videowall as
with two to four projected images edge-blended
a stylish video display for into a seamless display.
welcoming visitors and delivering
impact.
Emerson
Corporate Lobby
6 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Public Spaces
Corporate Lobbies
The corporate lobby of a technology-based firm
is a popular location for a videowall, where a
stylish video display becomes a reflection of both
the creativity and innovation that exists beyond
the waiting area. Corporate videos highlighting
an organizations products or services, news,
and personalized 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.
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 digital signage, such as
videowalls, will be 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. Projection cubes or 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 displays will be more of
a continuous projection display than a tiled
system. During services, videowalls typically
present camera feeds, video or graphic content
supporting the days teachings, hymn music
and lyrics, video of recent events, or content
streamed from remote worship facilities. The
services are similar to other large-scale live
events, in that production teams manage audio
and video engineering tasks, including videowall
control. Videowalls in houses of worship typically
employ small numbers of front projectors to
achieve sufficient image magnification. Videowall
processors in these applications must retain high
quality when image sources are scaled for large
screen sizes.
Sports Arenas
Videowalls are used in sports arenas in many
different ways in 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 facilitys
production booth. Today, they are increasingly
used for digital signage and have become an
integral part of the facility experience. Projection
cubes and LCD panels are used for indoor
displays, while LED systems are a popular
choice for outdoor venues due to their very high
brightness. The videowall processor must be
capable of delivering high quality video images,
A videowall in a restaurant or bar provides a convenient, single large display for simultaneous access to several
channels of TV programming to customers.
Big Als
Entertainment Center
and also respond quickly to user control to keep Videowall processors
up with the fast-changing pace of the event. used in house of
worship applications
Bars and Restaurants
In bars and restaurants, videowalls are often must retain high quality
used to display multiple high definition video when image sources
sources. Large numbers of satellite or cable are scaled for large
television signals are used as source inputs to
screen sizes.
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 small touchpanel.
Flat-panel LCD displays or projection cubes
are frequently used for their ability to display
bright images with high contrast. The videowall
processor must be cost-effective, but also
maintain real-time performance while displaying
multiple high definition video sources.
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Why a Videowall?

Videowalls have A videowall typically requires a significant
several distinct investment, and is often the most expensive line
item in a facilitys capital outlay for an AV project.
attributes and
While the videowall functions as a single display,
advantages, with it is always important to remember that it is a
image display system.
capability and flexibility
Videowall processors are a significant component
that simply cannot be
of the videowall in terms of cost. They provide
achieved otherwise. features common to conventional scalers or
video processors, but have greater input, output,
and processing capability. The increased number
of inputs and outputs creates requirements for
many more dimensions of 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. Such means 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
1920
Figure 1-1. Videowall
images of identical size,
produced by a single 640x360 640x360 640x360
projector and a 3x3 array
of flat-panel displays
1080
1920 x 720
Single Projector, 156 in x 102 in (4 m x 2.5 m)
5760 (1920x3)
have several distinct attributes and advantages,
with image display capability and flexibility that
simply cannot be achieved otherwise.
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.
However, for a videowall, pixel density is constant
regardless of the array size, because it is based
on the individual display unit. 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 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 from a
single 1080p 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.
However, the videowall can present the sources
with nine times 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 HD video
sources at full resolution, compared to just
640x360 per image for the single display.

1920x1080 1920x1080 1920x1080 Creativity with Display Shapes and Sizes

A videowall is created by tiling multiple display

3240
devices together. By tiling displays, videowalls of
(1080x3)
any size and aspect ratio can be constructed,
5760x2160
often in very creative ways. A videowall display
layout never has to be limited to the standard
16:9, 16:10, or 4:3 aspect ratios of single
3 x 3 Videowall, 156 in x 102 in (4 m x 2.5 m) displays. Additionally, displays in a videowall can
8 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
be oriented horizontally or vertically, or even a
combination of both, further enhancing 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 requirements may limit the number
of allowable participants in the room without
blocking the projected image, even when special
wide angle lenses are used. Videowalls comprised
of flat panels or projection cubes occupy a
compact footprint, due to each displays fixed
depth. This depth remains constant, regardless of
how large the videowall may be. See Figure 1-2.
A display array 20 units wide and 10 units high
shares the same depth of a single display device.
Consistent Brightness
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
will be clear and easy to decipher.
Videowalls present viewers with consistently
bright, inviting images, regardless of size. While
a single projector loses brightness as image size
Figure 1-2. Flat-panel
displays produce
a videowall with a
minimal footprint.
increases, there is no reduction in brightness A bright, clear image
as more displays are added to a videowall. A is crucial for a video
videowall with 40 screens is just as bright as a
display. Videowalls
videowall with four screens.
present viewers with
Show More Images on Fewer Displays consistently bright,
Most flat panels and projection cubes have inviting images,
internal scalers that allow a single image to
regardless of size.
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 will frequently be
limited by the number of displays in the videowall.
For example, a 2x2 videowall with a matrix
switcher will allow for simultaneous display of four
image sources.
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 standard definition
video, computer graphics, and high definition
video, so they can be simultaneously displayed
together. Each source can be displayed on any
www.extron.com 9
Why a Videowall?
The ability to mix and part of a videowall, and many different source
match signal formats types can be displayed within a single screen.
See Figure 1-3. The ability to mix and match
for simultaneous
signal formats for simultaneous viewing can be a
viewing can be a crucial factor for workflows that rely on a variety
crucial factor for of visual data sources, as well as the flexibility
workflows that rely on to determine how they should be positioned or
grouped together.
a variety of visual data
sources, as well as the Simplified Display Setup
flexibility to determine Videowall processors supply a consistent output
how they should be signal format, eliminating the need to save
unique input adjustments such as size, position,
positioned or grouped
or phase for different signal types on each
together. display. Managing multiple input formats across
a common output format simplifies integration,
since the displays need only be configured for one
resolution and refresh rate. Driving the display at
its native resolution will maintain the best quality
image, avoiding inefficient or unnecessary scaling
within the display.
High Quality Image Processing
Videowall processors typically provide better
image scaling quality over the internal scaling
for the displays. 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 for applications
Figure 1-3. Sources of various formats and resolutions can be combined on a videowall.
10 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
in which critical details 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, and 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 window. 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. Videowall processors let the
user precisely define the look and style of the
presentation, and also allow window layouts to
be created, saved, and then recalled.
Aircraft images from Analytical Graphics, Inc. - www.stk.com
Reasons to Learn More
Videowalls are ideal for applications requiring
presentation of large images and multiple image
sources, because 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 displays, and then consider
other system components as supporting
elements. However, 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.
Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
This guide is a comprehensive resource for
evaluating, planning, and successfully executing
videowall system designs. The sections that
follow will cover a broad range of considerations,
all of which are important to videowalls:
Needs assessment. Any videowall design
requires clear knowledge of the applications
intended purpose. Selecting the right products
requires an understanding of exactly how the
videowall will be used.
Environmental factors and ergonomics.
Videowall designs should include considerations
for human interaction. Lighting conditions,
seating positions, physical obstructions, and
other factors are important to ensure comfortable
viewing and legibility of content.
Determining videowall shape and size,
and pixel density. The application, layout of the
room, and the type and arrangement of content
on the videowall will influence its general size and
shape. How close viewers will be to the screens
will dictate how dense pixels should be.
Videowall display selection. With knowledge
of the videowall size, shape, and pixel density,
you can select the display model and technology, A common approach
finalizing the videowall configuration. to videowall system
design is to first specify
Videowall processing. Videowall processors
are equally as important as the displays. However, the displays, and then
they vary greatly in features, capabilities, and consider other system
price. This guide provides detailed information on components as
videowall processors to help guide your selection.
supporting elements.
Videowall processor architecture. Videowall However, this
processing is available as a single, centralized approach can overlook
unit, or distributed among modular units many critical aspects
connected to sources and displays.
of a successful
Videowall processor platforms. Some videowall design.
processors are based on PC technologies,
while others are standalone video processing
appliances. Others are a combination of the two.
Videowall processing features. Scaling
performance, window customization options,
mullion compensation, and edge blending for
projectors are among the many features available.
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 A successful videowall design
accounts for environmental
extension over fiber and twisted pair, streaming
and human factors as well as
content over IP, and more. products and technologies.
UK Highways Agency
South Mimms
www.extron.com 11
Needs Assessment
The capital investment Significant Investments
for AV systems Videowall systems are a significant investment;
the cost adds up quickly with displays, videowall
nearly always faces
processing, control, distribution equipment, and
heavy scrutiny, so sources. Videowall requirements should be given
it is important to serious consideration, particularly the processing
system which can apply unique, sophisticated
identify and validate
technology to enable custom multi-window
the videowall system
presentations.
requirements for every
project. For many individuals, videowalls are unfamiliar
technology, and it can be very easy to become
preoccupied with new technology and flashy
capabilities, or to 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:
Its unwise to pay too much, but its 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 cant 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 will help clarify
core requirements, and identify inadequate or
non-essential technology. It will help avoid paying
too little and ending up with a system that is not
as effective as intended.
12 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Start with the Basics
When establishing requirements for a videowall
with an end user, begin with the basic 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?
As mentioned earlier, different applications and
environments will 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 will help 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 established 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 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, 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,
projection cubes, LCD panels, or another
technology? The selection of display technology will
 often be driven by the physical space available, the If the installation is in a government agency or a The selection of
type of information to be displayed, and the sizes at company contracted with the government, will
which images must be presented. there be secure content to be presented on the display technology
How much space is available in front, or at the rear videowall? will often be driven by
of the display, for access and maintenance? Will copyrighted material be presented in a public
the physical space
Will the sources be local to the videowall processor, area?
or situated throughout the site? Are there any
available, the type
sources to be integrated from outside the facility? Answers to these questions will help you of information to be
Is there an equipment closet or designated location determine most basic system requirements.
displayed, and the
for the videowall processor, sources, and other However, there are many more environmental
AV equipment? Are there any anticipated space and operational considerations that can affect sizes at which images
limitations for installing them? the selection of technologies for a videowall. must be presented.
What type of user control interface will be required
for operating the videowall? Is the operator going to
be a trained AV technician or staff members?

The quantity and layout of source windows will vary depending on the application and environment.

www.extron.com 13
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors
An effectively designed The ability to present clear, high quality imagery
videowall system, with from multiple sources and at large sizes makes
videowalls valuable for maintaining situational
proper consideration
awareness, as mission-critical information is
for environmental presented in a working environment such as a
and human factors, control center. In public spaces, videowalls can
ensures viewing deliver visual impact and effective messaging in
entertainment and promotional applications. An
comfort and optimal
effective videowall will be properly integrated into
accessibility for its physical environment, and be engineered for
everyone in the room. efficient, ergonomic use.
This in turn helps to
When designing a videowall system, individuals
maximize the value and
frequently begin by focusing on the most visible
effectiveness of the element, the displays. However, to properly
videowall in conveying determine which display technology and
visual information. 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 projects life cycle to prevent all
possible shortcomings regarding these important
details. Preparation of two-dimensional plans and
Figure 2-2. Adding curvature to the videowall can help optimize viewing angles.
Videowall Videowall
Viewer Viewer
Wide viewing angles result in lower display Curving displays improves the viewing
brightness. angle and brightness.
14 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Figure 2-1. A 3D perspective rendering can be
valuable when considering environmental and human
factors for a videowall.
section drawings are essential to reviewing the
physical considerations for the environment. 3D
visualizations, 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 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 International Standards
Organization - ISO has published standard
11064-1:2000 for ergonomic design of control
centers, and the US military has established
standards for human engineering that address
use of visual displays.
The human factors and environmental
considerations presented here are specific
to videowalls for control room environments.
The same concepts can be applied to other
applications where videowalls may be used.
Viewing Locations
It is essential that all the intended users can easily
view the videowall. When evaluating horizontal
and vertical viewing angles, the following
questions should be answered:
 it im
it R
Lim igh
u al tE
Vis ye
Bin
62 o c ular Vis ion 62

S y m bol
R e c o g n itio n

5 - 30 5 - 30
0

Where are the primary viewers situated relative to Standard

Figure 2-3. Field of vision and recommended head tilt and eye rotation
Line ofangles
Sight
the videowall?
Are there any secondary viewing locations for 50

individuals not directly engaged with the display?

Up
pe
ld
Examples of secondary viewing locations include

rV
Fie

is u
al
viewing galleries or management offices.

su

al F
25

Vi
of
um n

ield
Vis
Are there any physical barriers that could obstruct ye ua xim tio

it
E Ma Rota
eft

Lim
lL
it L im e
it R Ey
the videowall for some users? lL
im igh

R o t a ti o n
a tE
isu

O p ti m u m
V ye Standard 0
Bin Line of Sight
ion 62
In large rooms, such as a control center, viewing 62 o c ular Vis Norm

Eye
a
of Sig l Line
ht Sit
locations will vary greatly. It is important to S y m bol
M
Ey axim
ting 15
e R um

Lim
R e c o g n itio n
evaluate viewing angles in both the vertical and ota
tio

it of
5 - 30 5 - 30 n
0 30
horizontal planes. If physical barriers are identified,

ld
Visu

Fie
al F
additional displays may be required to expand

al
Standard

su
Line of Sight

ield

Vi
the videowall, or extra localized displays may

er
w
Lo
50
be necessary. Some environments may require 70

Up
that the videowall be split into smaller systems

pe
ld

rV
Fie
to sufficiently cover all viewing areas. In other

is u
al
su

al F
25
Vi

cases, adding curvature to the videowall layout Figure 2-4. Eye and head tilt from
m workstation to display
of

ield
mu on xi ti
it

Ma Rota
Lim

will improve viewing coverage, as illustrated in Eye Maximum 8H

R o t a ti o n

Figure 2-2.
O p ti m u m

Standard Preferred
0
Line of Sight Minimum 2.5H
Norm
Eye

of Sig al Line Absolute

Eye and Head Tilt Ma ht Sit
ting 15 Minimum 2H
Ey xim
e R um
Lim

In control rooms, operators typically manage ota

tio
it of

n
tasks using one or more local flat-panel displays 30
ld
Visu

Fie

Obstruction Line
while monitoring content on a videowall
al F

al

1H
su

Optimum Maximum
ield

Vi

positioned beyond their workstation. Eye and Eye Rotation 25 Eye Rotation
er
w

Lo
head tilt between workstation displays and 70
0
the videowall should be compared against 55
Normal Line
15
recommended human engineering standards of Sight Sitting

30 Maximum Eye
for visual field of view, eye rotation, and head Rotation

tilt. Proper consideration for eye and head tilt

ensures comfortable viewing for users as they
alternate between their workstation displays and
the videowall. This analysis should always be
performed for control rooms, whether information
is to be presented on a videowall, individual wall-
mounted displays, or a large screen. See Figures
2-3 and 2-4.
A similar field of vision, eye rotation, and head tilt
analysis should be applied when a videowall is
designed into a public or entertainment venue.
Personal displays may not need to be considered,
but the design must offer comfortable viewing
from seated or standing positions.
Display Size and Legibility
Minimum requirements for display dimensions
or the size of individual image windows will
be driven by viewing distances. The viewing
distance will also be critical when considering the
display resolution and pixel density of information
presented on the displays, as well as the sizes
of characters and symbols. Display size and
legibility of content will be examined further in
later sections of this guide.

www.extron.com 15
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors
Advancements in The Physiology of Color Vision
lamps and LED When preparing content to be presented on
a videowall, it is important to have a basic
illumination sources
understanding of human vision and the
have made LCD physiology of color. Proper use of color can
panels, projection enhance a viewers ability to interpret data, while
cubes, and high improper use of color can result in eye strain.
Text, data, or visual symbols should be presented
brightness projectors
applying a background using a complementary
suitable for use in color. See Figure 2-5.
bright ambient light
environments. 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.
Figure 2-6. Illuminance and luminance
Luminous Flux
Figure 2-5. The human physiology of color vision requires careful
selection of color combinations presented on displays.
Color Wheel Complementary Colors
Light per unit area emitted in a specific direction
Complementary
Colors
Relaxed Strained
16 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Display technologies continue to evolve,
offering improvements in brightness, resolution,
contrast, form factor, power consumption, or
cost efficiency. Whatever display technology
is being considered, it is always important to
use professional methods for defining display
brightness requirements that include 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 facilitys lighting design
specifications, or visiting the site and 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 projectors ANSI lumens
Illuminance
Light Power Light incident on a surface area
Lumens (lm) Lux (lx) = lm/m2
Front
Projection
Luminance
Nits - Cd/m2
Flat Panel or
Rear Projection
output by the screens surface area, in square
meters. The result can then be compared with
the ambient light levels in the room. A projectors
light output in ANSI lumens is usually listed under
Brightness in projector specifications.
Flat-panel displays 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 2.
Luminance describes the amount of light leaving
a surface in a specific direction. See Figure
2-6. In terms of measurement, one cd/m2 is
the equivalent of 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.
Projection cubes and flat panels with luminance
values between 300 and 1,000 nits provide
adequate brightness in control room as well
as office environments. 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.
proper specifications for projector ANSI lumens, In addition to
screen size, and screen gain to ensure sufficient brightness, videowall
luminance within the ambient lighting conditions
displays must offer
of the environment.
sufficient contrast,
Some display manufacturers continue to list so viewers can easily
illuminance and luminance specifications or distinguish text, data,
calculations based on English standard units
symbols, and visual
using square feet rather than square meters.
Conversion factors from lux and nits to foot- details in video or
candles and foot-lamberts are listed in Table 2-3. graphic images.
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 displays 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
Table 2-1. Typical illuminance levels Table 2-2. Typical luminance ranges for
in various environments various display types

For a projection cube, on-axis luminance is TYPICAL TYPICAL

ENVIRONMENT ILLUMINANCE DISPLAY LUMINANCE
determined by measuring or calculating the
Bright sunlight 110,000 lux LED displays 2000 - 14,000 nits
illuminance projector ANSI lumens divided by Shaded area on a 25,000 lux Rear projection 300 - 1,000 nits
screen area, and then multiplying this result by bright day cubes

the gain of the projection screen. Rear projection Task lighting 1,500 lux LCD screen 450 - 700 nits

screens with high gain typically yield lower Office lighting 500 - 750 lux Laptop screen 150 - 250 nits
Control room 300 - 750 lux Cinema screen 40 - 60 nits
luminance values at off-axis viewing angles. This
Theaters 150 lux
reduction in brightness helps to illustrate the
Parking lot lighting 10 lux
significance of the direction of light for luminance.
Moonlight 0.1 lux
Projection cube specifications usually identify the
horizontal and vertical viewing angles at which the
Table 2-3. Conversion factors for brightness values derived from metric and English
luminance will be one-half, or a lower percentage standard measurements
relative to the on-axis value. METRIC ENGLISH STANDARD METRIC TO ENGLISH TO
MEASUREMENT MEASUREMENT MEASUREMENT ENGLISH METRIC
Illuminance Lux Foot-candle (ft-c) Lux x 10.764 ft-c / 10.764
Luminance is also important for large-screen rear
Luminance Nit or candela/m2 Foot-lambert (ft-L) Nit x 3.426 ft-l / 3.426
projection systems. System designs must include
www.extron.com 17
Environmental Considerations & Human Factors
Brightness and requires even greater attention to reducing dark
contrast can be values. For product specifications, contrast ratio
is based on measurements taken in a completely
objectively determined
dark room. Unless the display is to be used in
with light meters, but a similarly darkened environment, contrast ratio
in the end, customer product specifications should not be factored too
satisfaction can be heavily when comparing products. The standard
method for determining contrast ratio is illustrated
purely subjective.
in Figure 2-7.
Many direct-view flat panels include high
contrast surfaces to disperse incident light and
reduce reflections on the screen. 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. For
direct-view panels, 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.
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.
Figure 2-7. Contrast Ratio
Display Measured luminance ratio of full white vs. black
contrast ratio Contrast Ratio = Bright - Dark (Nits)
Dark (Nits)
Display
Contrast Ratio
Example: 100:1
18 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
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.
There is no substitute for visually evaluating a
displays brightness and contrast in the actual
facility it was designed for, or under comparable
environmental conditions, using visual content
representative of the intended application.
Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting conditions will impact the
resulting contrast, or how images appear under
actual lighting conditions. Excessive lighting in
a room will conflict with the displays, reducing
contrast and making the image appear washed
out and difficult to view.
The following are best practices for improving
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.
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 latitude locations, there have
been instances of poor planning for ambient lighting
conditions. Specifically, these have been for corporate
lobby videowall installations that face windows with a
southerly exposure. During afternoon hours in winter
months, light from the sun can fall directly onto the
displays, significantly reducing their 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, and be void of windows and
other reflective surfaces, which can result in light
falling onto the videowall screens. Wherever
windows cannot be avoided, shades and
tinting can be used to reduce the impact of
exterior light. Acoustic treatments may also be
required to control sonic reflections and ensure
a quiet acoustical environment where normal
conversations can be conducted.
Clocks and Status Indicators
Control rooms, sales or trading areas, and other
working environments with videowalls often
use world time-zone 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.
presentation room may double as a viewing The earlier an AV
gallery, with motorized shades or controllable designer participates in
privacy glass to expose an adjoining control room.
the facility design, the
Control rooms used for customer demonstrations
or promotional applications may incorporate a greater the likelihood
special entryway that includes lighting and AV human factors
effects to help shape the visitors state-of-mind and environmental
before they enter the space. This approach is
considerations will
similar to the use of pre-shows in theme park
attractions. be successfully
addressed.
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 will be successfully addressed.
Figure 2-8. Walls surrounding a videowall should not distract viewers from the display
system, clocks, or other status indicators.

Furniture and Personal Environment

Management
Furniture and consoles used in command and
Figure 2-9. Furniture and consoles may be customized for specific team workflow or
control centers are available in standard designs operational requirements.
supporting many different workflows. Custom
consoles can be designed to support specific
working conditions and environments. See Figure
2-9. They 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
www.extron.com 19
Choosing the Right Videowall Shape and Size
Deciding how large a Deciding how large a videowall should be is more
videowall should be is than a matter of determining how many display
devices are required to fill a space on a wall. The
more than a matter of
manner in which the videowall will be used, the
determining how many types and quantity of information to be presented,
display devices are and the size and shape of the room should be
required to fill a space considered before selecting the quantity and
type of display. A videowall in a public setting
on a wall.
for digital signage will have 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 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, which is defined by the layout of
the screens as well as the aspect ratio of the
individual display devices, which could be 4:3,
Figure 2-10. Videowall images may be distorted if content is not presented in their native
aspect ratios.
Original source aspect ratios maintained
Original source aspect ratios not maintained results in image distortion
20 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
5:4, 16:9, or 16:10. Videowalls 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 will be driven
by the layout of the room. A shallow, wide room
with a low ceiling will likely necessitate 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
will also influence its shape and design.
A good first step is to determine the types and
resolutions of input sources to the videowall, and
how many of them must be displayed together.
Discussing this with the end user, and deciding
how source windows should be arranged on the
videowall, will help determine the best overall
screen arrangement.
It will also be beneficial to sketch three or four
storyboards with various window layouts. Be
sure to maintain each sources original aspect
ratio when designing these layouts. While many
videowall processors will 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 their native aspect
ratios. See Figure 2-10.
When creating sample window layouts, it is also
important to consider which sources should be
shown at native resolution, those which may be
downscaled or reduced in size, and content that
should be upscaled or enlarged. Having an idea
of scaling requirements for the source content
will help you determine relative sizes for the
source windows on the videowall. The nature of
the source content will be a determinant of how
legible it may 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 area. Pixel density is determined by the individual Viewers tend to
while being adequately discernible, and then display unit, in terms of its native resolution as perceive images with
upscaled or enlarged upon user control for closer well as screen dimensions. Pixel density remains
good resolution as
examination. constant, regardless of the size or layout of the
videowall. sharp, detailed, and
While videowall processors allow images or above all, free of visible
graphics to be reduced in size, text or symbols The ideal pixel density for a videowall can be pixel structure.
may not remain legible if downscaled, or even determined based on the distance for viewers
when shown at native resolution. In this case, closest to the screens, so they do not see visible
upscaling may be necessary, possibly leading pixel structure. A unit of angular measurement,
to use of larger window sizes that may require known as an arc minute, is used to describe
enlarging the videowall. Properly sizing fonts for how much of a viewers vision is occupied by
videowalls will be discussed later in detail. an object. An arc minute is equal to 1/60th of a
degree, with 360 comprising a complete circle.
Once you are confident that your sample The theoretical limit of human visual acuity, or
window layouts meet end user expectations, you the ability to discriminate an individual object or
can be sure that you have a good idea of the between objects in space, is approximately one
overall shape for the videowall, determined by arc minute or 0.0167. For video, this means that
the layout of the room and the source content below this limit, a person should not be able to
to be presented. You should also estimate the resolve individual pixels. See Figure 2-11.
physical and pixel dimensions for the videowall.
Additional considerations, including pixel density
and individual display or projected image size,
will help you finalize the actual dimensions and
configuration of the videowall.
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 persons viewing field.
Pixel Density
A videowall should be capable of delivering the
highest quality images possible to all viewers in
1 arc minute
the environment. In addition to brightness and
contrast, pixel resolution is another contributing
factor to image quality. Viewers tend to perceive
Pixel Pitch
images with good resolution as sharp, detailed,
and above all, free of visible pixel structure. The
Individual
ability to see pixels on-screen is dependent on Pixels
Visible
the viewing distance from the display, the native
resolution of the display, and the content being
1 arc minute
presented, among other factors. Pixel structure is
more likely to be noticeable in content with text,
Pixel Pitch
shapes, lines, and fine graphic details, than in full-
motion video.
No Pixels
Visible
The resolution of a videowall can be defined by
the total number of horizontal and vertical pixels
in the display array. It can also be described by
the pixel density, or the number of pixels per unit

www.extron.com 21
Choosing the Right Videowall Shape and Size

LCD panels generally The sidebar provides detailed information on Summary

deliver more than calculating pixel density. At a close viewing
distance of 10 feet (3 m), the pixel density
sufficient pixel density
would need to be at least 28 PPI, or pixels per
for close viewing inch, to avoid visible pixel structure. As points
distances, including of comparison, a 50 inch (107 cm) 1080p LCD
the largest models. panel has a pixel density of 44 PPI, while a 70 inch
(178 cm) WXGA projection cube has a pixel
Pixel density will
density of 22 PPI. If the end user demands that
likely be an important multiple high resolution sources be displayed
consideration when pixel-for-pixel, then it may be necessary to
projecting large increase the pixel density beyond the minimum.
LCD panels generally deliver more than sufficient
images.
pixel density for close viewing distances,
including the largest models at 70 inches. Pixel
density will likely be an important consideration
when projecting large images. Table 2-4 lists
some recommended minimum pixel densities at
various viewing distances.
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
space available on the wall.
Drafting window layouts will help you better define
the shape and dimensions of the videowall. Be sure
to account for:
- The types of input sources
- T
 he aspect ratios and native resolutions of the
sources
- L
 egibility of content, particularly text, and the
possible need to enlarge them
- T
 he maximum number of sources to be displayed
simultaneously
Ensure the display you select for the videowall has
sufficiently high pixel density, so the closest viewer
will not see pixel structure.

How to Calculate Pixel Density

Together with these suggested guidelines, be sure
Calculating Pixel Density Based on Viewing Distance
that the final videowall design and configuration
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 satisfies eye and head tilt considerations, as
measure and a scientific calculator, or a mobile device running a scientific calculator discussed previously on page 15.
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 Table 2-4. Recommended display pixel density based
calculate pixel pitch, or the physical separation between two pixels. on the closest viewing distance

Pixel Pitch = Viewing Distance x tan (1 arc minute / 60 arc minutes per degree) VIEWING DISTANCE MINIMUM PIXEL DENSITY
= Viewing Distance x tan (0.0167) = Viewing Distance x 0.000291 5 ft (1.5 m) 57 PPI - pixels per inch
where the viewing distance and pixel pitch are specified in inches. Pixel density, in PPI 10 ft (3 m) 28 PPI
or pixels per inch, is then simply the inverse of pixel pitch:
15 ft (4.5 m) 19 PPI
Pixel Density (PPI) = 1 / Pixel Pitch (in) 20 ft (6 m) 14 PPI
Example: For a viewing distance of 10 feet (3 m), or 120 inches,
Pixel Pitch = 120 in x tan (0.0167) = 120 in x 0.000291 = 0.035 in (0.9 mm)
Pixel Density = 1 / 0.035 in = 28 PPI

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

22 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

Choosing the Right Display Size and Resolution

The ideal dimensions and resolution of an Figure 2-12 illustrates two videowalls of The ideal dimensions
individual display unit will depend on the required comparable size. System A comprises three and resolution of an
pixel density, the desired shape and size of the 80 inch (203 cm) SXGA+ projection cubes, and
individual display unit
videowall, and budget. The choice of display System B is an array of eight 50 inch (127 cm)
technology will dictate the specific screen SXGA+ cubes. While the resulting videowalls will depend on the
dimensions and resolutions available from which are close in physical size, there are considerable required pixel density,
to choose. Display technologies for videowalls will differences between the two. System A will the desired shape and
be discussed later in further detail. likely be less expensive than System B, despite
size of the videowall,
the larger, more expensive 80 inch displays,
For a given display technology, larger displays are as System A requires only three displays while and budget.
typically more expensive than smaller models. System B requires eight. In addition, the videowall
But it may actually cost less to fulfill a desired processor for System A will only require three
videowall size with fewer large, more expensive outputs, while System B will require a larger
displays, than a greater quantity of small, less videowall processor with at least eight outputs.
expensive displays. Fewer displays translate
to less expensive videowall processing, since While System A is more cost effective than
fewer outputs will be required. However, smaller System B, the overall pixel density of System
displays often deliver higher pixel density for the B is greater than that of System A. System A
videowall. Therefore, a videowall design focusing comprises 4200x1050 pixels with a pixel density
solely on the economics of displays may ignore of 22 PPI, while System B comprises 5600x2100
pixel density considerations. This is particularly pixels and 35 PPI pixel density. Therefore,
the case for videowalls comprising projection System B will be able to display a higher number
cubes or front projectors, but also applies to LCD of sources at native resolution. Depending on
panels if there is a need to present many high the required pixel density, the desired window
resolution image sources. layouts, and the resolutions of the input sources,
System B may be a more suitable solution than
System A, despite the higher price.

Figure 2-12. A videowall with fewer screens may be more cost-effective, but may not
deliver sufficient pixel density for the needs of the application.

System A
16 ft (4.9 m) - 4200 pixels (1400x3)
4 ft (1.2 m) - 1050 pixels

80 inch diagonal 80 inch diagonal 80 inch diagonal

System B
13 ft 4 in (4 m) - 5600 pixels (1400x4)
5 ft (1.5 m) - 2100 pixels

50 inch 50 inch 50 inch 50 inch

diagonal diagonal diagonal diagonal
(1050x2)

50 inch 50 inch 50 inch 50 inch

diagonal diagonal diagonal diagonal

www.extron.com 23
Font Size and Legibility

Viewers should be able Legibility is very important for any videowall
to easily read text at application with sources that include
alphanumeric text. Viewers should be able to
all intended viewing
easily read text at all intended viewing distances
distances without without eyestrain. Delivering adequately sized text
eyestrain. can be accomplished by scaling up or enlarging
the source to make fonts legible, or by rendering
content 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, and use this 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 rows or columns of
screens.
At a minimum, text on a videowall should occupy
* From Simpson, Robert S. (1996). 10 vertical arc minutes of the viewers vision to be
Videowalls: The Book of the Big legible. However, this size may still appear to be
Electronic Image, Oxford, United
Kingdom: Focal Press. 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 viewers vision.*
The example in Figure 2-13 illustrates an
environment where the nearest viewer is 15
feet (4.5 m) from a videowall, and the furthest
viewer is 30 feet (9 m) from the screens. The
text is 1 inch (25 mm) high, which occupies 19
arc minutes of the nearest viewers vision. While
this is acceptable, text read by a viewer 30 feet
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.

Figure 2-13. Font size vs. viewing distance

Viewing Distance 30 ft (9 m) How to Calculate Arc Minutes

15 ft (4.5 m)
10 arc minutes It is easy to calculate the number of arc minutes that text and
characters occupy within a persons viewing field. All you need
is a tape measure and a scientific calculator. Scientific calculator
Text height apps are available for mobile devices. Make sure the calculator is
1 in (25 mm)
set to degrees, not radians.
19 arc minutes
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
Font size is acceptable for nearest viewer, but too small for
extended viewing by furthest viewer formula can be used to calculate arc minutes:

Arc Minutes = 60 x arctan (Text Height / Viewing Distance)

Viewing Distance 30 ft (9 m)
15 ft (4.5 m) where arctan is the arctangent, or inverse tangent, and 60
19 arc minutes 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,
Text height
2 in (50 mm)
Arc Minutes = 60 x arctan (1 in/180 in) = 60 x arctan (0.0056)
38 arc minutes = 60 x 0.3183 = 19

If your calculator does not have an arctangent button, press the

Font size acceptable for nearest viewer and furthest viewer inverse button and then tangent.

24 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

From this illustration, it can be generalized that
providing a text height of 1 inch (25 mm) for
every 15 feet (4.5 m) of the maximum viewing
distance will ensure legibility for the viewer. This
is a good rule of thumb to follow when designing
videowalls, especially in environments where
critical information is displayed.
Pixel Density and Font Size
The pixel density of a display device is another
factor that will impact font size. Text rendered
at a specific font size will appear 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 42 inch (107 cm) LCD panels,
one at 1920x1080 and the other at 1366x768.
It is also important to note that when referring
to font size, or point size, a point is not equal to
a pixel. In other words, 12 point font is not 12
pixels high, but rather is approximately 16 pixels
high. The exact relationship between points and
pixels varies by font. As a general rule of thumb,
the pixel height of a font will be 30 to 35 percent
larger than its point size.
Example: A videowall array comprised of 42 inch
(107 cm) 1366x768 LCD panels is installed in a
control room where the distance to the farthest
density of 37 PPI. For a 30 foot viewing distance, As a general rule of
text on the screen should be at least 2 inches or thumb, the pixel height
74 pixels high. Therefore, when creating content
of a font will be 30 to
in Microsoft PowerPoint or any other application,
a font size of about 58 points should be applied. 35 percent larger than
its point size.
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.
Summary
To ensure that alphanumeric text presented
on a videowall is legible for all viewers, use the
following suggested rules of thumb:
Apply a minimum text height of 1 inch (25 mm)
on the screen for every 15 feet (4.5 m) of distance
between the videowall and the furthest viewing
position in the room.
When rendering content for a videowall, the pixel
height of a font is 30 to 35 percent larger than its
point size. 1920 pixels
36.6 in (93 cm)
20.6 in (52.3 cm)
1080 pixels

viewer is 30 feet (9 m). The videowall has a pixel

42 in (107 cm)

Letter 100 pixels tall

1.92 in (49 mm)

Pixel Density:
52 pixels per inch

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

1920 pixels 1366 pixels

36.6 in (93 cm) 36.6 in (93 cm)
20.6 in (52.3 cm)

20.6 in (52.3 cm)

1080 pixels

768 pixels

42 in (107 cm) 42 in (107 cm)

Letter 100 pixels tall Letter 100 pixels tall

1.92 in (49 mm) 2.70 in (69 mm)

Pixel Density: Pixel Density:

52 pixels per inch 37 pixels per inch

www.extron.com 25

1366 pixels
Display Devices
Several display With the size and shape of the videowall in
technologies are mind, as well as a minimum pixel density to
ensure high quality images for everyone in the
available when
room, the system designer can now consider
specifying a videowall the technology and model of the displays for
design, each with its the videowall. Several display technologies are
distinct benefits and available when specifying a videowall design,
each with its distinct benefits and drawbacks.
drawbacks. The ideal
The ideal choice will be based on several factors,
choice will be based including the following:
on several factors.
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
each other over time.
Footprint. Front and rear projection systems
require the greatest consideration for space,
while LCD 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.
Budget. Display technologies vary in terms of
the costs upfront for the displays and installation,
plus ongoing maintenance needs such as lamp
replacement. Videowall maintenance will be
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.
26 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Projection Cubes
Projection cubes have long been the display
technology of choice for many 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 inch (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 have been engineered
for long life, while maintaining tight tolerances for
brightness and color temperature. First-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.
Projection cubes are available in sizes from 50 to
80 inches (127 to 203 cm) in aspect ratios of 4:3,
16:9, or 16:10. They generally require a footprint
from 1.5 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. Manufacturers are now
marketing projection cubes with designs that
are said to have eliminated the appearance of a
mullion between screens.
Projection Cube
Photo Courtesy of Mitsubishi
Flat-Panel Displays
Flat-panel LCD displays have quickly become
popular for videowall applications. They range
in size from 40 to 108 inches (102 to 274 cm),
with a depth of four inches (10 cm) or less, and
are ideal for facilities with limited physical space
or budgets. LCD panels designed for videowalls
are typically available with a 16:9 aspect ratio at
resolutions such as 1366x768 or 1920x1080. Flat
panels with a 16:10 aspect ratio and 1920x1200
resolution are also available, though these are
desktop monitors.
The first flat-panel displays used in professional
video applications were based on plasma
technology, and were susceptible to image
burn-in. They were not suited for continuous-
use applications with presentation of static
content. Early flat-panel videowalls were used in
applications that emphasized the artistic value of
the bezel, small footprint, and budget, rather than
thin mullions, which were not possible with the
early flat panels.
32 in (81 cm) LCD Display with
Standard Bezel
60 in (152 cm) LCD Display with Ultra-Slim Bezel
Photos Courtesy of Sharp
More recently, the availability of ultra-thin bezel The availability of ultra-
models less than 10 mm and a minimal footprint thin bezel models less
has made LCD flat panels very popular in a
than 10 mm and a
broad range of videowall applications.
minimal footprint has
Projection made LCD flat panels
Multiple projectors may be used in videowall very popular in a broad
systems instead of flat panels or projection
range of videowall
cubes. They produce large images and offer the
opportunity to present source information across applications.
fewer displays, resulting in fewer visible mullions.
Front or rear projection can be used. See
Figure 2-15. Projector selection will be based on
a variety of factors relevant to the application,
including resolution, brightness, contrast ratio,
lens options, lamp life, picture adjustments, and
the ability to maintain color consistency over time.
Projectors are available in various aspect ratios
and native resolutions ranging from 1024x768 to
1920x1200. Projectors are also available at higher
resolutions including 2560x1600 and 4K. The
best choice between front or rear projection for a
42 in (107 cm) LCD Display with Thin Bezel
www.extron.com 27
 Display Devices

Videowall applications videowall is determined by the physical attributes
that incorporate of the viewing room and available space.
projector arrays
Front Projection
employ either edge Front projection videowalls require the use of
blending or edge ceiling-mount systems, floor-level projection
butting. The design cabinets, or isolated projection rooms. Ambient
lighting conditions and screen technology must
objective is to create
be factored carefully into display brightness
a single, large display and contrast requirements. Fan noise requires
delivering a continuous consideration if projectors are to be situated
projected image. within the working environment. Installing front
projection may also result in restricted usage of
floor space, to prevent staff from accidentally
walking into the projection paths and casting
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.
Figure 2-15. Front projection vs. rear projection, and edge blending vs. edge butting
Front Projection Rear Projection
Mirror
Screen
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.
Edge-Blended Projection
Videowall applications that incorporate projector
arrays employ either edge blending or edge
butting techniques. See Figure 2-15. The design
objective is to create a single, large display
delivering a continuous projected image.
Edge blending is achieved by aligning the images
from adjacent projectors so that the images
overlap with each other, typically by 20%. Video
content projected in the overlap region must be
identical between projectors. This requires special
image processing, which is not a standard feature
in videowall processors.
Special adjustments for brightness, contrast,
and gamma are also required to match the
projected illumination between overlapped and
non-overlapped regions. Contrast must be

Mirror
attenuated in the overlapped regions to reduce
the level of bright content, and the black level
must be notched up to adjust dark content
in the projected areas with no overlap. These
image adjustments must be made, either within
the projector or by an external image processor.
Edge blending is ideal for applications that require
a large, continuous, display area with very high
resolution.

Edge Blending Edge Butting Windowing various input sources is common on

projection videowalls with edge blending. While
edge blending produces impressive displays,
they are custom by nature, and the increased
complexity of picture adjustments requires that
the owner be prepared to accept higher service
and maintenance costs than more conventional
Overlap Area Visible Seam/Join
display systems.

28 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

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. Edge-butted displays
are simpler to setup, align, and manage. 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.
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 colored LEDs. A single pixel
is represented by a discrete set of red, green, and
blue LEDs, or a single surface-mount module
incorporating all three colors.
An LED panel may have a resolution from 36x36
to 100x100 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 will have a tighter pixel pitch,
from 4 mm to 10 mm. Table 2-5 lists minimum
preferred and optimum viewing distances for
three popular LED pixel spacings.
Table 2-5. Minimum and optimum viewing distance for three
common pixel spacings
PIXEL MINIMUM PREFERRED OPTIMUM VIEWING
PITCH VIEWING DISTANCE 1
20 mm 39 ft (12 m)
10 mm 20 ft (6 m)
5 mm 10 ft (3 m)
1
600 x pixel pitch
2
1000 x pixel pitch
Viewing distance calculations from Simpson, Robert S. (1996).
Videowalls: The Book of the Big Electronic Image, Oxford, United
Kingdom: Focal Press.
Video inputs are distributed to LED panels through LED displays produce
proprietary signal processors. These processors very high brightness
are typically limited to the magnification of a single
and are frequently
image across the entire panel array. Videowall
processors can serve as an input to the LED used outdoors or in
signal processors, providing advanced scaling, environments with
cropping, and multi-source windowing features high ambient light
for the entire LED display.
conditions.
Figure 2-16 illustrates an LED videowall 21
feet (6.4 m) wide and 14 feet (4.3 m) tall with a
total resolution of 1600x900 pixels. This display
comprises 144 individual panels, each 16 inches
(40 cm) high by 16 inches wide. The modular
form factor of the panels provides a great deal of
creative latitude when designing the shape and
size of an LED display. Very large LED displays
may have resolutions that only require a single
or just a few outputs from a videowall processor,
due to the low pixel density of LED displays.
Figure 2-16. A large LED display comprised of 144 individual panels
Individual Panel Dimensions:
16 in x 16 in (41 cm x 41 cm) 100 pixels x 100 pixels
21 ft 4 in (6.5 m) 1600 pixels
12 ft (3.7 m) 900 pixels
DISTANCE 2
66 ft (20 m)
33 ft (10 m)
16 ft (5 m)
LED Tile Array
16 Tiles x 9 Tiles
www.extron.com 29
Display Devices
A single 4K display Modular Displays
can be managed from An emerging class of display products feature
a compact, modular display size comparable to
a videowall processor
LED panels, as well as thin mullions. They are
as though it is a 2x2 new display technologies for creating videowalls
array of 1080p or 2K with many different shapes and configurations.
resolution displays, Similar to LED systems, these displays are not
limited to standard aspect ratios and can be a
with the benefit of no
rectangle, square, or some other abstract shape.
mullions for a perfectly
seamless image. Among these modular displays are Christie
MicroTiles . An individual MicroTile is a very
compact projection cube with a screen size of
16 x 12 inches (40 x 30 cm) and a depth of 10
inches (25 cm). It houses an LED-illuminated DLP
projector with a resolution of 720x540. Signals
are distributed to the displays by one or more
proprietary signal processing units. As with LED
displays, these processing units are used to
magnify 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.
A 4K projected image can serve as a perfectly seamless videowall for presenting multiple
high resolution image sources.
30 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
High Resolution 4K Displays
High resolution 4K displays were introduced
beginning in 2005 for digital cinema, simulation,
defense, medical, entertainment, and other
applications. Since then, many manufacturers
have introduced 4K projectors and direct-view
LCD flat panels supporting resolutions including
40962160, and 3840x2160, also known as
QFHD or Quad Full High Definition.
A single 4K display can be managed from a
videowall processor as though it is a 2x2 array
of 1080p or 2K resolution displays, with the
benefit of no mullions for a perfectly seamless
image. A large image from a 4K projector can
deliver dramatic visual impact, without the need
to precisely align four individual projectors or
apply edge blending. As 4K displays grow in
popularity, they will be combined more frequently
with videowall processors.
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 will ensure end users remain within their
operating budgets. This includes a sufficient
stock of consumables and replacement items,
and scheduling periodic, essential service
visits to maximize uptime and image quality.
These measures will help preserve value in the
investment.
Videowall Processors
The videowall processor selected should be
capable of delivering failsafe reliability, and be
fully supported by a manufacturers warranty
policy. All Extron videowall processors, for
example, 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 redundant power
supplies, and hot-swap capability for parts
such as fans and power supplies. In secure
environments with restricted access, a spare
parts kit can be considered that may include
system controller parts and input and output
cards, in addition to hot-swappable fans and
power supplies.
All Extron videowall processors are fully supported
by a three-year parts and labor warranty.
Videowall Displays Videowall systems are
Display selection can have a significant impact on high value investments
the total cost of ownership. Operating costs for
that require periodic
display systems include consumable items such
as air filters and lamps for projectors or projection maintenance. They
cubes, plus regularly scheduled cleaning. have very high duty
cycles, and downtime
The brightness and color composition of
is unacceptable,
projection lamps and LED light sources can drift
over time, requiring periodic recalibration and especially in mission-
balancing across displays. Color balancing of critical applications.
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 between display technology options.
Flat-Panel Displays
Flat-panel LCD and plasma displays for
videowalls have not been designed with the
intention of replacing consumable parts. LED
backlighting for LCD flat panels offer practical
lifespans of 50,000 hours or more. 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 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 flat panels, the end user should
consider having a spare unit on hand to avoid
delays in receiving a replacement from the
manufacturer.
Presentation of static content for long periods
of time is known to result in image retention or
burn-in on plasma displays. Manufacturers of
LCD flat-panel displays offer varying degrees of
advice, warranties, or guarantees concerning
www.extron.com 31
Videowall Maintenance and Cost of Ownership
Projection cubes are image retention for their displays. Replacement
available in models of flat panels can be inconvenient and a surprise
expense, so it is advisable to thoroughly examine
offering either rear
a manufacturers specifications and policies
or front access, the regarding image retention on LCD flat panels.
choice of which
can impact the cost Projection Cubes and Projectors
Projection cube designs typically feature an
and convenience of
enclosure and removable screen, projection
maintenance. module, lamp, fan, and filter assemblies that
make them very serviceable. Projection cubes
are available in models offering either rear or
front access, the choice of 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.
LED-illuminated projection cubes and projectors
have lifespans between 50,000 and 80,000
hours, and offer greater stability for brightness
Location and access to the videowall can influence maintenance cost.
32 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
and color over time than conventional Ultra High
Performance - UHP lamps. This will result in lower
operating costs, effectively eliminating the cost
associated with light source replacement.
UHP lamps have lifespans between 6,000 and
10,000 hours. Projection cubes and projectors
with UHP lamps installed in 24/7, mission-critical
operations will 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 will require
a lamp replacement every one to 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.
Table 2-6. Typical operating schedules for videowalls and the resulting lamp usage
Preventive
HOURS PER DAY DAYS PER WEEK LAMP HOURS PER YEAR maintenance
8 5 2,080 agreements help keep
8 7 2,920
videowalls looking
12 5 3,120
12 7 4,380
and performing their
24 7 8,760 best, and can prevent
problems before they
Projection cubes with self-calibration features or regularly scheduled maintenance. Furthermore, occur.
integrated lamp replacement systems will require consistently maintaining normal operating
less time and effort required for system repair and temperatures helps maximize product lifespan.
realignment.
Preventive Maintenance Agreements
Cleaning Preventive maintenance agreements help keep
Displays with intake filters, as well as videowall videowalls looking and performing their best, and
processors, should be kept clean and free of can prevent problems before they occur. They
dust and dirt. Clogged filters and excessive can be billed at a flat quarterly or yearly rate, or
dust accumulation inside the equipment may at a fixed rate per visit. These service contracts
cause it to overheat, and in some cases, may include the cost of spares, lamps, and
shut down until temperatures drop to normal quarterly or twice yearly visits for cleaning, color
operating levels. Projection brightness is reduced adjustments, and lamp replacements, or they
when dust builds up on lenses. Unplanned may be based on time and materials needed. A
outages and sub-optimal display quality can be number of emergency on-site visits for repairs
prevented by including cleaning as part of the 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.
www.extron.com 33
Input Sources for Videowalls
A videowall offers In addition to presenting large images or many
unique value in its images, a videowall offers unique value in its
ability to display a variety of signals, presented in
ability to display a
layouts and formats that help the user interpret
variety of signals, a complex system. Videowalls accept various
presented in layouts digital and analog video formats. Some will also
and formats that help decode networked video streams. The specific
signals a videowall processor supports will vary
the user interpret a
from manufacturer to manufacturer, and from
complex system. model to model.
Videowall processors are often targeted towards
specific applications. This will impact the types
of input signals accepted, and may also impact
performance for those signals. For example,
processors used in traffic management or
security applications typically support large
numbers of composite or S-video signals, and IP
camera feeds. Command and control systems
must support computer-video signals that may
be analog, digital, streamed, or delivered using
software client applications. In order to select the
right videowall processor for your application, you
will need to identify the primary signal types that
will be used.
Standard Definition Video
Standard definition video sources are defined
as full motion video with resolutions of 704480
or less, with frame rates of either 30 frames per
second progressive or 60 fields per second
interlaced. Standard definition video signals will
require less bandwidth and processing resources
on a videowall processor, than high definition
and computer graphic signals, because they are
lower resolution and contain less information.
More real-time standard definition video sources
can be displayed simultaneously on a videowall
than high resolution sources.
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.
34 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Computer Graphics
Computer graphics refers to imagery produced
on computers that will typically, but not always, be
at high resolutions. Computer-video resolutions
frequently range from 1024x768 to 1920x1200,
but can also be as low as 640x480 and as high
as 3840x2160. Computer graphic signals carry
information for an RGB color space. A computer-
video signal with a 1920x1200 resolution uses
over ten times the bandwidth required for a
standard definition signal.
Analog Signal Formats
Support for analog video and computer-video
signals is a continuing requirement for videowall
systems. Today, end users may select digital
source devices for new projects, but analog
sources are still prevalent at legacy sites.
Videowall processors must support analog
signals when expanding existing display systems,
and also when allowing connections from guest
laptops. Table 3-1 lists common analog signal
formats for standard definition, high definition,
and computer-video. Analog computer-video
signals on 15-pin VGA connectors support
Extended Display Identification Data - EDID, used
to communicate video display information back
to the source to ensure optimal image quality and
compatibility.
Digital Signal Formats
Offering superior image quality and resolution,
as well as support for ancillary audio and control
data, digital signal interfaces continue to appear
on consumer and professional video sources and
computers. Digital signals such as HDMI offer
advanced signal management features for EDID
and High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection
- HDCP. DVI and SDI digital formats have been
popular in commercial and broadcast applications
for over a decade. However, HDMI has quickly
become the most popular digital signal format for
AV systems. HDMI signal support is required in
todays videowall system designs.
Table 3-1. Analog video signal formats

Format Connection Maximum Supported Format Typical Source Devices

Composite Video 525 or 625 line interlaced video, Consumer VCRs, commercial
25 Hz - 30 Hz surveillance cameras
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 PCs, video processors, scalers

or

3 - 5 BNC VGA

Table 3-2. Digital video signal formats

Format Connection Maximum Resolution HDCP Support Typical Source Devices

Single-Link DVI 1920x1200 @ 60 Hz, Yes (Optional) PCs, 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 2560x1600 @ 60 Hz, Yes Blu-ray players, cable and satellite

4096x2160 @ 24 Hz set-top boxes, video games, PCs

HDMI

DisplayPort 3840x2160 @ 60 Hz Yes Graphics cards, laptop PCs

DisplayPort

SDI Standard definition interlaced No Traditional broadcast signal

video processing and management

BNC

HD-SDI HDTV 720p or 1080i @ 60 Hz, No Modern broadcast signal processing

HDTV 1080p @ 30 Hz and management

BNC

3G-SDI HDTV 1080p @ 60 Hz No Emerging broadcast signal

processing and management

BNC

www.extron.com 35
Input Sources for Videowalls
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.
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.
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.
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 incorporate 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.
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 PCs,
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
utilities and network operations centers.
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, but can be easily overloaded at
the client or server end if the content contains
full-motion video or 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 PC 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 to be presented on a videowall.
Scalability and performance requirements for a
videowall may influence the decision to use the
decoding built into the videowall processor,
or external hardware for decoding streamed
sources.
Image compression is generally a necessity for
streaming, in order to meet bandwidth limits.
The methods employed to compress imagery
for streaming include reducing the resolution,
identifying and eliminating redundant spatial
detail, and dropping frames.
The compression, encoding, and decoding
processes can require significant processing
time. Whenever streaming sources are used on
a videowall, the quality expectations for sources
presented at small and large sizes should be
considered, as well as the impact streaming
latency may have for users.Frame dropping can
make presentation of animations, visualizations,
or full-motion video objectionable to the viewer,
and will also introduce a perceived delay equal
to the time span that passes between dropped
frames.
For more information on video streaming
t e c h n o l o g y, re f e r t o t h e E x t ro n AV
Streaming Design Guide, available at
www.extron.com/streamingguide.
Videowall Processor Architecture

The most effective videowall designs apply equal
importance to video signal processing and the
display technology. For applications that only
require a single image to be magnified across the
videowall, 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 will need to be in the system. It is
therefore critical that the end users intended
application for the videowall be clearly identified
during needs assessment.
The traditional videowall processor architecture
is a unit with inputs, outputs, and specialized
processing inside. 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. Videowall processing is also available as
a system of modules, in which signal processing
is distributed or shared between them. Other
videowall processing solutions combine elements
of these two architectures.
all of which arise from a detailed assessment of Whenever there is
the end users requirements: a need to present
The quantity of input sources.
multiple images in
Locations of the input sources, whether local to windows on the
the videowall processor, dispersed throughout the screens, dedicated
facility, or both.
videowall processing
The number of displays in the videowall.
The possible need for the videowall to be scalable, will need to be in the
so it can be expanded over time with new sources system.
or additional displays without replacing the
processor.
The amount of space available 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. 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.

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,
Some processors feature a fixed input and output
configuration in a 2U or 3U chassis. With certain
models, interchangeable input cards are available
for different signal formats.

Figure 3-1. Videowall systems with a centralized videowall processor

CENTRALIZED VIDEOWALL PROCESSING

Auxiliary Display Videowall Auxiliary Display Auxiliary Display Videowall Auxiliary Display

Desktop PC Desktop PC

Desktop PC Desktop PC

Videowall Processor Desktop PC Videowall Desktop PC

Processor

Desktop PC Desktop PC Desktop PC Desktop PC Desktop PC Blu-ray Player Desktop PC

Desktop PC Matrix Switcher Desktop PC

LOCAL INPUTS SWITCHED AND LOCAL INPUTS

www.extron.com 37
Videowall Processor Architecture

An advantage of a Other processors are card-cage designs,
centralized videowall populated with different types of input and output
cards that vary depending on the source and
processor is that it can
display types used. These systems are typically
be installed, configured, customized and configured at the factory on a
and serviced in a single built-to-order basis, and typically have from eight
location as a single unit. to 16 card slots or more. Depending on the
model, card-cage videowall processors usually
range from 4U to 8U high.
Card-cage processors provide scalability,
especially when configured with vacant card
slots. This allows more input or output cards to
be added over time. Cards can also be swapped
out for system upgrades or maintenance. The
addition of a matrix switcher also adds input
scalability to a videowall system, as shown in
Figure 3-1.
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 with multiple units.
Distributed Videowall Processing
In a distributed videowall processing architecture,
input and output connections as well as signal
processing are distributed among several
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 PC
or control system over Ethernet.

An advantage of a centralized videowall For the second system in Figure 3-2, sources
processor is that it can be installed, configured, are connected into input modules that convert
signals for distribution over a network. The
streams are received by output processing
The Extron WindoWall Pro modules connected directly to the videowall
employs a distributed
videowall processing displays. Again, a PC or control system is used
architecture with a to manage the modules as a system.
dedicated module for
each display.

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

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

Desktop PC Desktop PC Input Module Input Module

Desktop PC Desktop PC
Input Module Distribution Input Module
Matrix Switcher
Desktop PC Desktop PC Network

Desktop PC Input Module Input Module Desktop PC

MATRIX SWITCHER DISTRIBUTION NETWORK DISTRIBUTION

38 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

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 videowalls in which the
capabilities of videowall processing modules
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.
Figure 3-3. Videowall system with centralized videowall processing plus
distributed modules at the input sources.
HYBRID VIDEOWALL PROCESSING
Auxiliary Display Videowall
Desktop PC Desktop PC
Videowall
Processor
Desktop PC Input Module Blu-ray Player Input Module
Desktop PC Input Module Distribution Input Module
Network
Desktop PC Input Module Input Module
NETWORK DISTRIBUTION
Hybrid Videowall Processing Distributed videowall
Some videowall processing systems combine processing can reduce
centralized and distributed processing
the need for AV rack
architectures. One example is shown in Figure
3-3, in which the input sources are connected space when the
to modules that stream their content over the modules are localized to
network to a centralized videowall processor. the sources or displays.
This system is ideal for installations with some
sources remotely located throughout the facility,
and others local to the videowall processor.
Centralized videowall processors can be
expanded by connecting to external modules with
additional inputs and outputs, or by cascading
additional processors that work together as
a single processor. This solution is somewhat
similar to a distributed videowall processing
system, in that signal and processing loads are
shared among the units.
The Extron Quantum Elite is a centralized videowall processor
that accepts remote input sources streamed over an IP network
using Extron QGE 100 IP encoders.
Auxiliary Display
QGE 100 DVI/RGB Computer Screen
Capture IP Encoder
Desktop PC
Desktop PC
Desktop PC
www.extron.com 39
Videowall Processor Hardware Platforms
The best videowall Centralized videowall processors are based on
one of two basic hardware platforms. Some are
processor satisfies
purpose-designed, real-time video processing
end user input and appliances, similar to traditional AV scalers
output interfacing and multi-window processors. Others apply a
requirements, and also computing architecture as the foundation. Some
processors incorporate a combination of these
fulfills general reliability
platforms.
and performance
expectations for Each platform has distinct advantages that
presenting input are valuable in meeting specific application
requirements. Ultimately, the best videowall
sources with high
processor satisfies end user input and output
image quality. interfacing requirements, and also fulfills general
reliability and performance expectations for
presenting few or many input sources with high
image quality. Ideally, all image sources should
be properly displayed in their windows on the
videowall, at their original frame rates, free of any
stuttering, image tearing, or other visible artifacts
resulting from signal or processing overload.
Furthermore, videowall processors should
respond to user or control system commands in
real-time. Any noticeable latency is an indication
that the systems processing capability has been
exceeded. In 24/7, mission critical applications,
the processor also must deliver continuous,
failsafe reliability.
History
Introduced in the mid-1980s, the first videowall
Figure 3-4. Historical videowall processing architecture
Inputs Input cards The Extron WindoWall Pro processor delivers the same high
performance and dependability as all other Extron scaling
and video processing devices.
Outputs Card frame
Bus
Output cards
Data flow on bus
40 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
processing platforms were based on a card
frame with a control processor and a data bus
for transporting video from input cards to output
cards. See Figure 3-4. This design was based
on a combination of 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 inputs and outputs.
Over time, manufacturers have pursued a variety
of design platforms, capitalizing on advancements
in high speed data bus technology, commercially
available off-the-shelf PCBs or PC components,
and network transport methods. These
technologies have been applied in the pursuit of
various design goals, including high 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 proprietary controller, high speed video
bus, and a customized operating system. These
appliance-type processors are specifically
designed to provide predictable, real-time
video processing and device control in a stable
operating environment.
Appliance designs can have a fixed configuration
of inputs and outputs, or be a card-cage chassis.
Fixed I/O processors have a defined number of
inputs and outputs, with the video signal formats
predetermined. Card-cage processors provide
the flexibility to configure systems to support
specific input and output requirements based on
different project requirements.
Appliance-type processors typically have fast
boot times of less than one minute, due to the
custom operating system. They are generally
purpose-built to handle all of the videowall
processing capabilities available to a user,
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 applications
requiring continuous 24/7 operation.
The Extron WindoWall Pro multi-window
processor is an example of an appliance-based
videowall processor. It features real-time video
processing for a fixed configuration of inputs and
outputs.
PC-Based Videowall Processors
PC-based videowall processing designs integrate
components, technologies, and architectures
developed for use in standard PCs and
computing devices, including 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, as
technology supporting development of graphics
cards with multiple outputs became available,
enabling PC desktops to span multiple screens.
It was now possible to produce inexpensive
videowall processors based on technology
developed for PCs. Today, input capture cards
and output cards developed for use in videowall
applications are available, which can be installed
in off-the-shelf industrial PC frames.
PC-based videowall processors are capable of
displaying a large extended computer desktop on
the videowall, as well as multiple source windows.
As a result, they offer capabilities common to PC
functions, such as running software applications, Appliance-based
while presenting external input sources, as would videowall processors
an appliance-based videowall processor.
are generally purpose-
Some PC-based processors incorporate built to handle all of the
proprietary input and output cards into purpose videowall processing
designed card frames. These designs offer capabilities available
superior performance compared to off-the-shelf
to a user, delivering
PCs used for videowall processing. However, the
technologies applied in any PC-based videowall reliable, high quality
processor have been developed for use in images to the displays.
computing systems. There are disadvantages
when implementing such technologies in real-
time video processing applications.
In particular, the PCIe data bus frequently applied
in these processors must perform double duty,
managing 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 the non-deterministic PCIe
bus makes real-time video performance difficult
to predict. Real-time performance also degrades
significantly as video source loading increases on
the bus.
Videowall processors based on PC technology
may provide performance that is good enough
for simple presentation of standard definition video
and static graphical data. However, when applied
to continuous use, mission-critical environments
requiring real-time device control and presenting
high definition video and motion graphic sources,
performance may not be satisfactory. Additionally,
extended shutdown and boot times comparable
to desktop PCs are typical.
Combined PC and Appliance Platforms
As the videowall market has matured, newer
products have emerged that incorporate both
hardware appliance and PC-based platforms.
These system designs capitalize on the benefits
of each platform, including the operational
familiarity of a PC-based processor, and the
high performance and reliability of a hardware
appliance processor. Compared to PC-
www.extron.com 41
Videowall Processor Hardware Platforms
System performance, based processors, they offer the stability and
dependability, and performance of a standard AV appliance.
budget are some of
The Extron Quantum Elite and Quantum Connect
the important factors are videowall processors combining PC and
in selecting a videowall appliance platforms. They use a customized,
processor. However, embedded operating system, based on a
pruned down variation of a standard Windows
there are many more
operating system. Since the operating system is
considerations related considerably simplified, fewer system resources
to specific features for and processes are required, which dramatically
image processing and reduces boot time and improves system stability.
The Quantum Elite is available with a removable
other functions.
flash drive, which further optimizes boot time and
system reliability.
The Quantum Connect and Quantum Elite
feature proprietary input and output cards, with
on-board, high performance video processing
and scaling. They also feature a high speed,
high capacity data bus dedicated to transporting
real-time video from input to output cards,
which is physically separate from inter-system
communication on the PCI bus.
Figure 3-5. Shared bus vs. dedicated video and data buses
Multi-function Bus Specific Purposed Bus
One bus used for all data Video bus independent from system data bus
External Video Data Outputs External
Inputs
Inputs
Intra-system Data
Bi-directional PCI or PCI Express Bus
The Extron Quantum Series videowall processors combine PC and appliance platforms, and feature a
dedicated high speed video bus optimized for real-time performance.
42 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
See Figure 3-5. The input cards, output cards,
and bus are engineered to operate as a system,
much like a hardware appliance, requiring
just 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,
without the latency associated with heavy signal
processing tasks.
Summary
The ideal videowall processor fully satisfies the
requirements of the application, as well as general
end user expectations for reliable operation and
very high quality images on the displays. System
performance, dependability, the ability to run
PC applications on the videowall, and budget
are some of the important factors in selecting a
videowall processor. However, there are many
more considerations related to specific features
for image processing and other functions. These
will be explored further in the next section.
Video Data Outputs
Unidirectional High-speed Video Bus
Intra-system Data
Bi-directional 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 can help streamline system
design and integration needs targeted at specific
vertical market applications. Support for these
features will vary by manufacturer and model.
Most of the features and capabilities discussed
here are relevant to common videowall system
designs. 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 will
help identify the most critical features a videowall
processor must support. When comparing
between processors, be aware that manufacturer
claims of capabilities or performance are often
represented by inaccurate or misleading
specifications in brochures 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,
providing more reliable, stutter-free video
playback, and ensuring 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, and cannot
be changed after leaving the factory. Other
videowall processors are upgradeable, but may
require on-site support from their manufacturers
to make hardware configuration changes. For
a distributed videowall processing system, or
a centralized videowall processor that accepts
sources streamed over a network, potentially up Many videowall
to hundreds of input sources may be supported. processor features
relate to system
Redundancy & Accessibility Features
For videowall processors used in mission- performance, image
critical or 24/7 environments, redundant and quality, and reliability,
hot-swappable components are essential. while others can help
Redundant, hot-swappable power supplies keep
streamline system
processors running during a failure, and facilitate
replacement without powering down the unit. design and integration
Hot-swappable fans can quickly and easily be needs targeted at
replaced if necessary. The ability to replace these specific vertical market
components, without removing the videowall
applications.
processor from the rack, will minimize downtime.
Data Storage
Hard drives are one of the first points of failure for
a PC. Videowall processors with hard drives can
become inoperable if failure occurs. To reduce
this risk, some videowall processors use RAID or
removable solid state storage for their operating
systems, rather than a single hard drive.
Removable solid state storage virtually eliminates
the possibility of hard drive failure, while adding
the benefit of reduced boot time.
Upscaling and Downscaling Quality
Maintaining image quality is crucial for videowall
processors, which often display large images
at high resolution, or downsize images into
smaller windows or thumbnails. Depending
on the quality of the image processing, scaling
sources up or down from native resolution can
compromise image integrity. Poor scaling can
produce artifacts, which can make imagery
ineffective for applications requiring critical
analysis of images.
Figure 3-6 on the next page 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, or in
a demonstration where the system is displaying
content similar to what will be presented in the
intended application.
www.extron.com 43
Videowall Processor Features
Incoming source Full Color Depth Processing
signals can vary Full color depth processing is required to preserve
the quality of 24-bit video or complex graphics
widely in signal
without introducing color banding. Some
format and resolution. videowall processors reduce the color depth of
Quick, accurate incoming source signals to reduce bandwidth
input detection and on its video bus. While this helps preserve real-
time performance, color reproduction will be
configuration of input
compromised. Figure 3-7 illustrates the color
sources is ideal. 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-definition video 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 when switching between window
layouts or input sources. Inaccurate input signal
detection can result in images shifted horizontally
or vertically, displayed at the wrong aspect
ratio, or presented with other visual distortions
and artifacts. Manual programming to correct
these issues for each input can add weeks of
programming that could have otherwise been
Figure 3-6. High quality scaling maintains critical image details when Figure 3-7. Full color depth processing avoids color banding artifacts
content is downscaled. associated with a reduction in color resolution.
Scaling Artifacts
No Scaling Artifacts
44 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
avoided if quick and accurate input detection was
supported. This capability also makes integration
of new sources, or temporary sources such as
guest laptops, simple and easy.
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, such as sync polarity and line timing,
and perform a source capture based on VESA
standard CVT - Coordinated Video Timing or GVT
- Generalized Timing Formula calculations for the
signal parameters.
Complications can arise if there are non-standard
signal formats, or if the sources are altered by
upstream signal processing or signal extenders.
Both situations can prevent accurate detection
of incoming signals. To correct this problem, a
videowall processor should allow customization
of input signal parameters. This will permit 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
Bit-reduced Color
No Bit-reduction
custom profile to be created just once and then Figure 3-8. With mullion compensation, images appear more natural
on a videowall.
shared across inputs, reducing integration time
and complexity.

Custom Output Modes

Some videowall processors allow for customizing
the resolution of the outputs. This is useful if the
systems display devices are of a non-standard
resolution, or when the display devices resolution
No mullion
is not included in the processors default output compensation

mode table.

Mullion Compensation
When projectors and projection cubes are
stacked next to each other, there is no
appreciable image-to-image gap between the
displays. However, flat-panel displays typically
have a wide physical bezel around the active Mullion
compensation applied
picture area. The active picture area stops at the
inner edge of the bezel. Therefore, when flat-
How to Calculate Mullion Compensation
panel displays are stacked together to form a
tiled display, there can be significant screen-to- Determining the number of pixels a mullion occupies is a simple task. Applying this
calculation can save time that will otherwise be wasted by guessing or eyeballing the
screen gaps across panels. adjustment.

If a video processor does not account for the
gap between displays, the result looks unnatural,
as objects that span screens appear to jump
between them. 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 compensation.
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:

Left Mullion Compensation = 1 in x 44.26 PPI = 44.26 pixels

HDCP Support
Repeat the calculation for the right mullion:
High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection, or
Right Mullion Compensation = 1 in x 44.26 PPI = 44.26 pixels
HDCP, is an encryption system widely used for
Add the two values to arrive at the total horizontal mullion compensation:
content delivered by Blu-ray Disc players, satellite
and cable TV receivers, and PCs. To properly Total Horizontal Mullion Compensation = 44.26 + 44.26 = 88.52 or 89 pixels

display digital encrypted content, all devices in
the signal chain must be HDCP-compliant. The
increasing use of digital video sources has made
HDCP compliance a growing requirement for
videowall processors.
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

The greater the Edge Blending Support
source placement and Some videowall displays comprise multiple
projectors that overlap with each other to create
windowing capabilities
one large, seamless image on a front or rear
of the processor, the projection screen. In these systems, imagery must
more flexibility there be duplicated between displays in the overlapped
will be to create the region. Also, brightness, contrast, and special
color adjustments must be available in zones to
window layouts that
balance brightness and color across the blended
satisfy application and unblended regions.
requirements.
Duplicating the imagery required for edge
blending is a feature that may not be available on
every processor. Some processors may support
zoned brightness and color adjustments, but
this capability can also be supported by many
projector models. Dedicated video processors
are also available that support zoned brightness
and color adjustments. Careful evaluation of
projector adjustment and videowall processor
capabilities are required when designing edge-
blended systems.
Flexible Source Placement
A videowall processors ability 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 processors allow dozens of
windows to be presented per screen. The ability
to display the same source in multiple windows or
multiple outputs at different sizes can be beneficial
for very wide videowalls servicing segmented
Figure 3-9. Videowall presentations can be enhanced with
window borders and titles, as well as clocks.
workgroups in a large room. This capability may
not appear to be an obvious requirement when
first specifying the processor.
The greater the source placement and windowing
capabilities of the processor, the more flexibility
there will be to create the window layouts that
satisfy application requirements.
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 1366x768 flat panels as auxiliary displays.
However, 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 processors ability to add colored
borders and text to source windows can be a
powerful feature in many applications. Colored
borders can denote the status of the content in
a command and control room, such as green for
unclassified data and orange for top secret data.
In a traffic monitoring environment, a red border
can help highlight an accident, or colors can be
used to indicate traffic levels. Overlay text can be
used to provide information about the source,
such as the location of a reporter, and the local
time. Clocks displaying the time for different
regions or time zones can be generated by many
processors, allowing an integrator to streamline
system designs by avoiding the need for external
clocks or status displays.

Remote Control Protocol

New York
11:16:32
Wednesday, March 21st 2012
46 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Some applications may require a touchpanel
London
controller, or use of a customized application for
15:16:32 videowall control. In these systems, the videowall
Wednesday, March 21st 2012
processor must support Ethernet or RS-232
remote control. The range of control options will
vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so it is
important to make certain that all required control
capabilities are supported. Videowall control will
be discussed further in a later section.
Application Control
Videowalls in data-driven environments such
as utilities and network centers often require
the ability 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 PC. Other solutions
integrate hardware or networked software
switching systems to manage keyboard and
mouse control directly on the source machines.
Software solutions require compliance with
operating systems and network security
requirements, while hardware solutions require
more cabling and control integration.
3D Support
Visualization or simulation applications may
require presentation of 3D content. Few videowall
processors currently support this feature, since
3D imaging is a specialty application. Additionally,
the systems source devices and displays must
be compatible with 3D content and signals.
When discussing requirements for 3D with an
end user, be sure to point out that there are two
different types of 3D presentations, passive and
active. Passive 3D requires polarized glasses
for viewing. Active 3D requires electronically
shuttered glasses that receive timing information
from a transmitted synchronization signal.
Preview Output
Some organizations require that a smaller
presentation of the videowall be viewed
elsewhere in a facility, on one or two screens,
or be streamed to another location. This allows
other staff to see an overview of the videowall,
without requiring use of a large number of
display devices. Some processors provide a
preview output of the videowall within the control
software, or automatically generate an output that
can be connected to a display. Other processors
allow preview layouts to be programmed and
presented on additional outputs. This method When designing a
requires that the videowall processor supports system, focus on
presentation of a single input on different
fulfilling the most
displays and different window sizes, a feature not
supported by all processors. critical features needed
for the application.
Low Throughput Latency Ensure the videowall
All video processors will introduce a degree of
processor you
throughput latency, resulting in the processed
output being slightly delayed when compared select will satisfy
to the original input source. The amount of the applications
latency will vary from a few milliseconds to requirements.
several hundred milliseconds, depending on the
amount of processing being performed, and how
efficiently the processor is executing its tasks.
A delay of a few hundred milliseconds may
have a negligible impact on presentation
for most videowall applications. However, it
can be a concern for installations where the
videowall is displaying camera feeds for a live
event. A throughput delay greater than 40 to
75 milliseconds will introduce a noticeable loss
of synchronization between live or house audio
and the camera feeds on the videowall. Delays
greater than 100 to 200 milliseconds will be
unacceptable for operators 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 most
critical features needed for the application. Ensure
the videowall processor you select will satisfy the
applications requirements. Where specifications
and marketing information are not obvious,
insist that the manufacturers support staff be
able to clearly verify that your requirements will
be 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
Portrait and Landscape Orientation
A system designer
may favor displays
in portrait orientation
to meet creative or
technical objectives for
a project.
Figure 3-10. Orienting
displays in portrait mode
may allow for a more
compelling presentation.
48 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
Display devices in a videowall are usually
arranged in landscape orientation. However,
a system designer may favor displays in
portrait orientation 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.
Rotating Source Content for Portrait
Displays
Source content must be rotated 90 degrees for a
videowall with portrait-oriented displays, so that it
appears upright and not on its side. Content can
be rotated at the source, the videowall processor,
the displays, or using an external device.
The source. If the source is a PC, content
can be rotated and then output to the videowall.
When the desktop orientation is switched from
landscape to portrait within the operating system,
content is automatically rotated. Note that the
output signal format from the PC remains the
same, even when the desktop orientation is
changed. If the source is a DVD or media player,
content must be rotated during video production
and editing, if the player itself cannot perform the
rotation.
The videowall processor. A few videowall
processors can rotate their outputs to
accommodate portrait displays. This avoids the
need to rotate content at the source device.
However, image rotation is not a common feature
of videowall processors.
The displays. A growing number of flat-
panel displays support use of either landscape
or portrait orientation. However, this feature is
designed for single displays in retail or digital
signage applications, and assumes the content
has been formatted properly.
An external device. For applications where
content cannot be rotated at the source,
videowall processor, or displays, specialized
devices are available for rotating images.
An Effective Strategy for Portrait
Displays
Figure 3-11 illustrates a method for preparing and
processing images for portrait displays. Original
1920x1080 content is rotated during video
production. Once rotated, the image partially fills
the video frame. To ensure that the content is
delivered to the videowall with as many pixels as
possible, it is adjusted to fill the video frame. This
results in some distortion to the image, but can
easily be corrected by the videowall processor.
The content is then exported and loaded onto
a media player, which then supplies a signal to
a videowall processor. The processor scales,
formats, and compensates for the image
adjustment during production. The result
is presentation of the original content in its
proper proportions, on a videowall with portrait
displays.
 Original 1920x1080 Content

Figure 3-11. A strategy for producing and presenting content on a videowall with portrait displays

Content Management for Portrait Videowalls

Original 1920x1080 Content Content rotated during video production

1 Original 1920x1080 content 2 Content rotated during video production 3 Content adjusted during video production
to fill video frame

Original 1920x1080 Content Content rotated during video production Content adjusted during video production
to fill video frame

4 Content processed by videowall processor to fill displays 5 Displays are physically rotated to achieve portrait effect

Content rotated during video production Content adjusted during video production
VIDEO DISK DRIVE LAN
JMP 9600
JPEG 2000 MEDIA PLAYER
to fill video frame
1 2 3 4 1 2
PREV

ENTER

Extron JMP 9600 2K

DATA
Displays are physically rotated to achieve portrait effect

QUANTUM ELITE 408

Extron Quantum Elite

Videowall Processor

Content adjusted during video production

to fill video frame

Content processed by videowall processor

to fill displays

www.extron.com 49
Videowall System Control

Working with a Videowalls are among the most complex types
videowall processor of AV systems to set up and configure. Most of
the operational complexity is within the videowall
will be greatly simplified
processor and its many functions, features, and
if an intuitive, user- capabilities. Working with a videowall processor
friendly interface is will be greatly simplified if an intuitive, user-friendly
available for system interface is available for system configuration and
creating window layouts. The more intuitive the
configuration and
interface, the more streamlined the setup and
creating window configuration process will be.
layouts.
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 users 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 pages,
accessed by a client Web browser over the
network or the Internet.
Control Application Software
Most videowall processors require use of
specialized application software for setup and
configuration. For a PC-based processor, the
application can usually be run on the unit itself,
while for other processors, a PC runs the software
and connects to it as a client. See Figure 3-12.
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

Figure 3-12. Control application software can run on the videowall processor, or a PC connected
as a client.

On-board Control
Monitor

Client Application
Control Application Server Application
DVI

Ethernet
Mouse OR

Videowall Processor Videowall Processor

Keyboard Desktop PC

Videowall Processor Videowall Processor

Running Control Application Locally Serving Control Application to PC Client

Figure 3-13. Extron Quantum Series videowall processors have a dedicated PC connected at all times
to initiate control commands. This isolates control functions from on-board processing resources,
optimizing system performance.

External Control
Control Application

Ethernet

Videowall Processor

Desktop PC

Videowall Processor
Running Control Application on Dedicated PC

50 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

 Figure 3-14. A user can access select videowall controls through a touchpanel for a control system, Rather than making the
or an application GUI on a PC.
application software
Videowall Processor Touchpanel
Controller
Touchpanel available to end users,
it is usually preferred
Ethernet
Ethernet
to create a simplified
Control VLAN

control interface with

Remote Control with Videowall Processor
Running Control Application Locally a series of button
selections, so a user
Videowall Processor
Control Application
Touchpanel Touchpanel
only needs to control
Controller
the most common or
essential functions on
a videowall.
Desktop PC

Ethernet
Ethernet
Control VLAN
Ethernet

Remote Control with Videowall Processor

Running Control Application on Dedicated PC

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.
Dedicated PC for Setup and Control
For most videowall processors, the software is no
longer required once configuration is complete.
However, some videowall processors, notably
the Extron Quantum Elite and Quantum Connect
require that a PC be connected at all times with
the application running. See Figure 3-13. The
PC is not just an interface for a user, but also
initiates control commands to the processor.
Compared to PC-based videowall processors
that run the control application internally, the use
of an external PC isolates control functions from
on-board processing resources. This eliminates
operational load on the CPU, optimizing response
time and speed when recalling window presets
or performing other operations, especially with
large systems.
Remote System Control
Videowall processors can be controlled using
the application software, or a control system
through the RS-232 or Ethernet control ports.
For the Quantum Elite and Quantum Connect
processors, the PC running the application
software serves as the interface to the control
system.
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, often without
detailed knowledge of working with 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 3-14.
Large Facility Control
Many large facilities, such as command and
control rooms require that management of
www.extron.com 51
Videowall System Control
For most videowalls all communications including AV be centrally
applied in working integrated into a single control system. This allows
multiple room operations to be performed from a
environments such as
common GUI. The system can be programmed
presentation rooms, to incorporate videowall window layout and input
control rooms, and source selection, with buttons provided in the
retail or signage user interface alongside other communications
functions. Videowall-specific controls may also
displays, simple user
be provided separately on a touchpanel for an AV
controls will suffice control system.
for staff or a system
operator to manage On-Demand vs. Show Control
For most videowalls in working environments
the display.
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.
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
The control application software for the Extron Quantum Elite features a virtual canvas for
designing videowall display layouts.
52 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
source window content are the most frequent
actions performed on the videowall.
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,
plus the ability to change source window inputs,
provides sufficient flexibility. Other potentially
desirable tools may include source identification
or labeling, window borders, image zooming, and
other functions. These are best programmed and
made available as button presets.
Show Control
Videowalls used in retail stores, museums,
or other public spaces often include specially
created productions that include 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 PC 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 PC,
triggered by the incoming timecode signal.
Extron TouchLink touchpanels can be used to
provide a simple user interface to manage selection
of videowall display layouts and sources.
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, signal extenders, audio, and more all
play an important role in managing signals and
sources so that 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
all be accessible from an intuitive interface that
makes controlling the system as easy, if not
easier, than turning on a TV and watching a DVD
at home.
Designing such a system can be as much art
as science. In addition to technical elements,
including managing device drivers, data strings,
and conditional logic to connect and manipulate
devices, there are visual and operational elements,
such as the look and feel of the interface. While
the system may be complex, the user interface
should make it seem simple to operate by having
logical workflow, easy-to-identify icons and
indicators, quick response to button presses, and
positive feedback indicating when requests have
been initiated and performed.
Extron XTP CrossPoint 1600
SYSTEM CONTROL
Extron TLP 1000TV
Touchpanel
Switching A well-designed
Switching systems deliver source signals to control system allows
videowall processor inputs, scalers and video
a user to effortlessly
processors, standalone displays, streaming
encoders, or other system devices. Matrix manage each element
switchers can simultaneously send a single input of an AV system.
to multiple destinations, and can perform video
routing for multi-room facilities, allowing any input
to be sent to any room. 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 number of videowall processor input channels
required.
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 will require signal extenders to
ensure reliability. Installation of a transmitter at
the source device and a receiver at the far end
device, connected by twisted pair or fiber optic
cable, will allow for very long video, audio, and
control signal runs. A twisted pair extender can
provide signal extension up to 330 ft (100 m) for
digital video and up to 1,500 ft (450 m) for analog
SWITCHING
Matrix Switcher
SIGNAL EXTENSION
Extron DTP DVI 301
Twisted Pair Transmitter and Receiver
www.extron.com 53
Additional Videowall System Elements
The ability to transport
audio, video, and
graphics streams
across a data network
has revolutionized
many signal distribution
applications.
The Extron Fiber Optic Design
Guide provides tutorials on fiber
optic technology and cabling,
and provides practical examples
of fiber system designs.
FIBER INTERFACING
Extron FOXBOX Tx HDMI
Fiber Optic Transmitter
54 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
signals, while fiber optic extenders can extend
signals up to 2 km (6,560 ft) with multimode fiber,
or up to 30 km (18.75 mi) 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, due to
the absence of electrical emissions, making fiber
the preferred choice for government, military, and
medical applications.
Fiber technology is becoming more and more
common, and is the new standard for AV system
designers and integrators creating future-proof
AV systems. There has been a longstanding
perception that fiber is difficult to work with, but
new, affordable, easy-to-use termination systems
now 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 at www.extron.com/fiberguide.
Audio
While a videowall may support a rooms viewing
requirements, additional signal management may
AUDIO
Extron XPA 2002
Audio Amplifier
be required for program audio. A videowall can
display many video signals, but program audio
typically originates from only one of the displayed
sources. The systems control interface should
allow for the selection of audio sources. Matrix
switchers for routing 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 such as volume, equalization,
and mixing program audio with a microphone
or other audio source. Once a program audio
source is selected and processed, the signal will
need to be amplified and sent to speakers. The
size of the amplifiers and the type and number of
speakers required will depend on the application,
the size of the room, and required sound level.
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, PCs,
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 AND RECORDING
Extron VN-Matrix 225
Streaming Codec
Streaming encoders can be used as a source for
videowall processors. Encoders on the outputs
of a videowall processor can be used to stream
videowall imagery to a recorder, or to remote
locations for collaboration between different
functional groups or agencies.
Networks
Once used exclusively for computers, data
networks are now used for other functions such
as streaming audio, video, 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 organizations infrastructure. Isolated
networks can often be installed and managed
entirely by integrators. Collaboration with IT
departments is important when incorporating
AV data into a house network. AV network
topology will vary depending on the application
and complexity of the system. An unmanaged,
eight-port switch may be 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.
NETWORKS
Network Switch
Keyboard and Mouse Extension and Networks for AV can
Switching be standalone entities,
When an operator must have control over several
isolated from a larger
remote workstations, or needs keyboard and
mouse control of a PC from a great distance, house network, or
USB switchers and extenders provide the integrated within
solution. Extron offers a comprehensive family an organizations
of USB extension and distribution products.
infrastructure.
USB switchers allow an operator to use a single
keyboard, mouse, or other USB peripheral device
to control multiple PCs. More complex control
can be realized with USB matrix switchers,
which allow the operator to assign multiple USB
peripheral devices to PCs.
Extron USB extenders allow remote operation of
USB peripherals at distances much greater than
the 15 feet (4.5 meters) provided by the USB
specification. Twisted pair USB extenders enable
remote operation of USB peripheral devices at
distances of up to 450 feet (135 m), while fiber
optic USB extenders allow for distances of up to
10 km (6.25 mi).
KEYBOARD / MOUSE
EXTENSION AND SWITCHING
Extron SW4 USB Plus
USB Switcher
www.extron.com 55
Notes

56 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

 Videowall System Designs
While videowalls are best known for their ability to create big The following videowall designs highlight the diverse applications
pictures, their uses and applications vary widely. Public spaces for videowalls, from a small conference room system used for
and work spaces benefit from the flexibility videowall processors presentations, to large videowalls supporting command and control
provide with their ability to upscale, downscale, and tile images. room and traffic management facilities. The System Overview and
Room Needs Assessment sections establish how these videowalls
Systems incorporating videowall processors include a variety are used. Detailed application drawings clearly depict signal flow
of source devices, including cameras, workstation PCs, Blu-ray and the types of sources and displays utilized.
players, and even streamed content delivered over an IP network.
Display devices may include projection cubes, flat-panel displays,
LED arrays, or newer technology such as MicroTiles or 4K
projectors.

Executive Conference Room Command Center

Traffic Management
Utility Operations Center Center

Simulation Debriefing
Corporate Lobby Theater

Corporate Presentation
Auditorium
Executive Conference Room
Overview
Conference rooms are places where people meet and share information,
either in person, or via teleconference. Their AV systems frequently include
videowalls to display a variety of video sources simultaneously at high
resolution. Meeting participants often bring mobile devices to connect and
display on the system. They expect plug and play with high image quality.
HDCP capability will be needed to support the latest digital video sources.
Different window layouts should be available to accommodate various meeting
requirements. The touchpanel control system should be intuitive and simple
enough for use by non-technical users.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing Operator technical expertise will be unpredictable,
as meeting participants will vary and can include
outside vendors. Additionally, operators will have
little to no time to become familiar with the control
system, requiring that it be very simple and
intuitive to use.
Display An edge blended videowall, occupying an area
Requirements roughly 10 ft x 3.5 ft (3 m x 1 m), able to display
at least eight sources at various sizes and
locations on the screen.
Source Types Permanently installed sources include a
videoconference codec, document camera, PC,
satellite receiver, and a media player. The system
must have provision for connecting a variety of
mobile sources. All connections to the switcher
are HDMI.
System Control A simple touchpanel interface is needed for
selecting window layout presets and sources, as
well as videoconference control.
Special End user is in the media business. Full-motion
Requirements video quality is a high priority.
58 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
Extron WindoWall 102 Pro DI with two HDCP-compliant
processors drives two edge-blended projectors, and can present up
to eight input sources simultaneously. WindoWall distributed video
processing ensures full frame rate for all windows at all times.
Source Connectivity
All sources connect to an XTP CrossPoint 1600 matrix switcher.
The document camera, desktop PC, digital media player, satellite
receiver, and videoconference camera are permanent sources, while
the system accommodates a mobile device and a laptop PC for
meeting participants. An RGB-HDMI 300 A analog-to-HDMI scaler is
deployed ahead of the matrix switcher for compatibility with sources
that require RGB or component connections.
Display Systems
Two WUXGA, HDCP-compliant projectors arranged in a 1x2 edge-
blended configuration provide an overall display resolution of 3456
pixels by 1200 pixels. The 3456 horizontal pixels reflect a 10 percent
overlap for edge blending. The WindoWall processors provide the 384
overlapped pixels required in the blended zone, while the projectors
perform the brightness and gamma correction.
Switching and Signal Management
One XTP CrossPoint 1600 matrix switcher connects to the four inputs
of each WindoWall processor, as well as the videoconference codec.
The fully non-blocking topology allows any combination of sources
to appear at any of up to eight windows on the videowall. The
XTPCrossPoint 1600 and the WindoWall 102 Pro DI feature Extron
EDIDMinder to ensure that sources power up properly and reliably
output content for display, while Key Minder maintains continuous
HDCP authentication between sources and displays for quick and
reliable switching.
Network
The network includes a Layer 2 switch for the WindoWall processors,
XTP matrix switcher, and control system.
System Control
An Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch (25 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and
an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet control processor are used to control the
WindoWall processors and XTP CrossPoint 1600 matrix switcher. The
touchpanel provides a selection of preset window configurations, with
live source selection within each preset. The touchpanel is also used
to control videoconference calling.
 HDCP-Compliant HDCP-Compliant
Edge-Blending Edge-Blending
Projector Projector

Extron Extron
WindoWall 102 Pro DI HDMI WindoWall 102 Pro DI HDMI
Multi-Window Processing System Multi-Window Processing System
MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES
REMOTE LAN REMOTE LAN

INPUTS VIRTUAL INPUTS RESET INPUTS VIRTUAL INPUTS RESET

1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17 1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422 RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18 6 9 12 15 18

G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/ G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX 100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 7 10 13 16 19

B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V
B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV

HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI

50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI 50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI

Extron
TLP 1000TV
10" TouchLink
Tabletop
Touchpanel

HDMI
COM1 COM 2 IR RELAY
TX RX RTS CTS TX RX 1 2 1 2

Document Camera HDMI HDMI

Extron
S G S G
POWER
LAN
12V
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4

HDMI XTP CrossPoint 1600 S G S G

Modular Digital Matrix Switcher Ethernet

Extron
1 2 3 4
WiFi

IN AUDIO XTP CP 4i HDMI IPL 250

Desktop PC
L R L R L R L R
IP Link
IN

14

IN AUDIO XTP CP 4i HDMI

Control
Ethernet Processor
L R L R L R L R
IN

58
HDMI
INPUTS

Ethernet
Digital Media Player
912

TCP/IP
1316

REMOTE
RS-232/RS-422
LAN
Network Ethernet
iPad iPhone RESET

or Ethernet
ACT LINK

OUT AUDIO XTP CP 4o HDMI

OUT

L R L R L R L R
14

OUT XTP CP 4o HDMI

HDMI Adapter
AUDIO
OUT

L R L R L R L R
58
OUTPUTS

OUT AUDIO XTP CP 4o HDMI

Ethernet
OUT

L R L R L R L R
912

OUT

Extron 1316

RGB-HDMI 300 HDMI

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

RGB to HDMI Scaler

POWER INPUT
12V
1.0A MAX RS-232

RGB/R-Y,Y,B-Y AUDIO
RGB - HDMI 300 A HDMI OUTPUT Tx Rx
Videoconferencing Camera

VGA Audio

Videoconferencing Codec

Laptop
DVI
PUSH PUSH
DVI to HDMI Adapter
POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT
DIRECTV

DVI to HDMI Adapter

Satellite Receiver

www.extron.com 59
Utility Operations Center
Overview
This control room tracks operations monitored through 16 personal
computers. Four workstations with designated areas of responsibility are
each equipped with four displays, with the control room supervisor able to
determine what is monitored at each station. A central 2x2 videowall in the
main control room provides the status of all critical processes being tracked.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing Four technicians, one for each of the four
workstations, analyze data on the four local
displays at each workstation. The control
room supervisor selects the data sources to be
displayed on the videowall, and also designates
the processes to be monitored at each
workstation.
Display A central videowall consists of four 60 inch (152
Requirements cm) WUXGA flat-panel displays arranged in
a 2x2 configuration. Additionally, each of four
workstations is equipped with four flat-panel
displays.
Source Types Sixteen PCs with DVI 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.
60 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
Two WindoWall 102 Pro DI systems featuring four separate
processors each drive one display panel of the 2x2 videowall.
The system provides the ability to display up to 16 input sources
simultaneously on the videowall.
Source Connectivity
The 16 PCs connect to an XTP CrossPoint 3200 modular HDMI
matrix switcher, configured with 16 inputs and 32 outputs.
A PC with a multi-head graphics card drives the background input
to each of the four WindoWall processors. Together with the 16
available windows, this provides redundancy for monitoring data, and
allows display of applications running at very high resolution, up to
3840x2400.
Display Systems
Four 60 inch (152 cm) WUXGA LCD flat panels provide an overall
display resolution of 3840x2400 for the 2x2 videowall. Each individual
workstation has 4 WUXGA LCD displays.
Switching and Signal Management
The XTP CrossPoint 3200 outputs feed the WindoWall processor
inputs and the workstation displays. Full matrix switching capability
enables any window on the videowall, and any workstation monitor to
display any data source. EDID Minder ensures that sources power
up properly and reliably output content for display. The system is
expandable to accommodate up to 16 additional data sources.
Network
The network includes a Layer 2 Ethernet switch for the WindoWall
and XTP matrix switcher, TouchLink Panel, and IP link processor.
System Control
An Extron TLP 700TV 7 inch (18 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and
an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet control processor are used to control
the WindoWall processors and the XTP CrossPoint 3200 matrix
switcher. The touchpanel provides a selection of preset videowall
configurations, and the ability to designate any data source to be
monitored at any workstation display.
 Extron
TLP 700TV Extron
7" TouchLink IPL 250
Tabletop IP Link Control
Touchpanel Processor
COM1 COM 2 IR RELAY
TX RX RTS CTS TX RX 1 2 1 2

S G S G
POWER
LAN
12V
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4

S G S G

Ethernet Ethernet

TCP/IP
Network
Ethernet Ethernet

Extron Flat Panel Displays

WindoWall 102 Pro DI HDMI Ethernet HDMI
Multi-Window Processing System
MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES
REMOTE LAN REMOTE LAN

INPUTS VIRTUAL INPUTS RESET INPUTS VIRTUAL INPUTS RESET

1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17 1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422 RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18 6 9 12 15 18

G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/ G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX 100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 7 10 13 16 19

B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V
B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV

HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI

Ethernet
50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI 50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI

HDMI HDMI

Extron
WindoWall 102 Pro DI
Multi-Window Processing System
MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES
REMOTE LAN REMOTE LAN

INPUTS VIRTUAL INPUTS RESET INPUTS VIRTUAL INPUTS RESET

1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17 1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422 RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18 6 9 12 15 18

G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/ G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX 100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 7 10 13 16 19

B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V
B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV

HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI

50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI 50/60 Hz HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI

PC with 4-Head Video Out

HDMI
HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI
1 2 3 4
WiFi

HDMI

Workstation PCs (Typical 4 places) Workstation Displays (Typical 4 places)

1 2 3 4
WiFi

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

RESET

CATx Cable
Extron
HDMI LOOP-THRU OFF XTP T HDMI XTP OUT

XTP SR HDMI
+ + ACT LINK
Tx Rx Tx Rx
LAN

Extron POWER
12V
SIG LINK
OVER XTP HDMI AUDIO
OUTPUTS
AUDIO
S/PDIF
RELAYS
XTP SR HDMI
REMOTE
Flat Panel Display
XTP T HDMI
RS-232 IR ON 1 2 RS-232
--A MAX L R
RESET

CATx Cable XTP IN ACT

LAN
LINK Tx Rx Tx Rx
OFF HDMI + + Tx Rx

XTP Transmitter for HDMI

1 2 3 4
WiFi

HDMI Equipped PC
HDMI HDMI
POWER
12V
INPUTS
HDMI AUDIO
ON
AUDIO OVER XTP
SIG LINK
Extron
CATx Cable XTP SR HDMI
--A MAX L R RS-232 IR RESET

HDMI LOOP-THRU OFF + + XTP T HDMI Tx Rx Tx Rx XTP OUT ACT

LAN
LINK

Extron
INPUTS
POWER
12V
SIG LINK
OVER XTP

RS-232 IR
HDMI AUDIO
ON
OUTPUTS
AUDIO
S/PDIF
RELAYS
1 2
XTP SR HDMI
REMOTE
RS-232
Flat Panel Display
2 3 4 5
L R

1
--A MAX

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
RESET

XTP T HDMI CATx Cable XTP IN ACT

LAN
LINK Tx Rx Tx Rx
OFF HDMI + + Tx Rx

XTP Transmitter for HDMI 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

CONTROL I/O
1 2 3 4

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
WiFi

ENTER PRESET VIEW ESC VIDEO AUDIO

CONFIG

HDMI Equipped PC 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32
1 3

HDMI
HDMI 2 4

POWER
INPUTS SIG LINK
OUTPUTS
POWER
Extron
XTP SR HDMI
12V
HDMI AUDIO AUDIO OVER XTP
ON

CATx Cable
--A MAX L R RS-232 IR RESET

Flat Panel Display

HDMI LOOP-THRU OFF + + XTP T HDMI Tx Rx Tx Rx XTP OUT ACT
LAN
LINK

Extron
SIG LINK OUTPUTS XTP SR HDMI
POWER OVER XTP HDMI AUDIO S/PDIF
12V AUDIO RELAYS REMOTE
RS-232 IR ON 1 2 RS-232
--A MAX L R
RESET

CATx Cable
XTP T HDMI
XTP IN ACT LINK Tx Rx Tx Rx
OFF HDMI + +
LAN Tx Rx

XTP Transmitter for HDMI

1 2 3 4
WiFi

HDMI Equipped PC HDMI

HDMI Extron
XTP SR HDMI
POWER
INPUTS SIG LINK

12V
HDMI AUDIO AUDIO OVER XTP
ON

CATx Cable
--A MAX L R RS-232 IR RESET

HDMI LOOP-THRU OFF XTP T HDMI XTP OUT

Flat Panel Display

+ + ACT LINK
Tx Rx Tx Rx
LAN

Extron
SIG LINK OUTPUTS XTP SR HDMI
POWER OVER XTP HDMI AUDIO S/PDIF
12V AUDIO RELAYS REMOTE
RS-232 IR ON 1 2 RS-232
--A MAX L R
RESET

CATx Cable XTP IN ACT LINK Tx Rx Tx Rx

OFF HDMI + + Tx Rx

XTP T HDMI
LAN

XTP CROSSPOINT 3200

XTP SERIES DIGITAL MATRIX SWITCHER

XTP Transmitter for HDMI

Extron
XTP CrossPoint 3200
Modular Digital Matrix Switcher

www.extron.com 61
Corporate Lobby
Overview
As a physical entry point into a company, corporate lobbies are spaces in
which lasting first impressions are made through presentations of corporate
culture and mission, done with dramatic visual impact. For technology-
oriented companies, lobbies should reflect both the creativity and innovation
that exist beyond the waiting area. A quality videowall display can present
compelling corporate content and showcase the latest company products
and services. Content can be customized to welcome key clients, providing a
personal touch in a business environment.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing A single receptionist to operate the system on a
daily basis. AV staff members to configure content
and presentation of the system for special events.
Display A bright, attractive display 6 feet high by
Requirements 10 feet wide (1.8 m by 3 m), with the ability to
simultaneously display up to four sources.
Source Types Two PCs providing high resolution corporate
content, a satellite receiver providing high
definition broadcast programming, and a Blu-ray
player providing high definition video playback.
System Control A simple touchpanel interface for selection of
window layout presets and source selection within
each preset.
Special Ease of use is a primary concern, as the
Requirements system will often be controlled by non-technical
personnel.
62 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
An Extron Quantum Connect videowall processor with 12 outputs
drives a Christie MicroTiles modular display system at high resolution.
The Quantum Connect processes four high resolution sources
simultaneously, in any window configuration.
Source Connectivity
Corporate promotional videos and still images are supplied by two
PCs connected to the Quantum Connect through two DVI inputs. A
high definition satellite receiver provides broadcast programming to
the Quantum Connect through an HDMI input. A Blu-ray player is also
connected to an HDMI input.
Display Systems
Forty-eight MicroTiles provide an overall display resolution of
5760x3240 in a space 128 inches wide by 72 inches tall (3.25 m by
1.8 m). The MicroTiles are driven by 12 dedicated ECU processors,
which receive signals from the Quantum Connect.
Switching and Signal Management
All source switching is managed internally by the Quantum Connect
videowall processor.
Network
The network includes a Layer 3 Ethernet switch, configured with a
dedicated VLAN for the Quantum Connect and its control PC, and
another VLAN for the control system components.
System Control
System control is facilitated by an Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch
(25 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet control
processor, which interfaces via RS-232 with the control PC running
the Quantum Connect control software. The touchpanel provides
a simple, easy-to-navigate interface, which allows a non-technical
operator to easily select from six preset window configurations, and
select sources within each preset.
 MicroTile Displays

MicroTile ECU
(12 places)
COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT
HDCP

HDCP

HDCP

HDCP

HDCP

HDCP

HDCP
CONTROL

WARNING
SEE USER GUIDE BEFORE
USING THIS EQUIPMENT
DO NOT REMOVE THIS PANEL
NO USER-SERVICEABLE

Extron
PARTS INSIDE
REFER ALL SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL

IN IN OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT

THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE

Quantum Connect
GROUNDED/EARTHED
DO NOT OBSTRUCT
VENTILATION GRILLES
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT

Videowall Processor
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

System

DVI
Ethernet
Quantum Connect
Control Software
DVI

Ethernet
Control
VLAN

PC PC
HDMI Blu-ray Player
RS-232

HDMI
DSS Receiver

COM1
TX RX RTS CTS
COM 2
TX RX 1
IR
2
RELAY
1 2
Extron Extron
Ethernet POWER
12V
LAN
S G S G

IPL 250 TLP 1000TV

10" Tabletop TouchLink
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY

IP Link Control
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4

S G S G

Processor Touchpanel
Ethernet

www.extron.com 63
Corporate Presentation Auditorium
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 high by
Requirements 14 feet wide, with the ability to simultaneously
display from one to nine sources.
Source Types A PC providing high resolution corporate content,
an Extron JMP 9600 2K 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
JMP96002K video player.
Special Ease of use is a primary concern, as the
Requirements system will often be controlled by non-technical
personnel.
64 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
A Quantum Connect Videowall Processing System with four
HDMI outputs delivers signals to the systems HDCP-compliant 4K
projector, and displays any or all nine input sources simultaneously.
Input Source Connectivity
Corporate promotional content is supplied by a desktop PC and an
Extron JMP 9600 2K video player, utilizing Quantum Elite HDMI and
3G-SDI input cards. For live presentations, a Quantum Elite 3G-SDI
input card accepts signals from a video camera while two HDMI input
cards accept signals from a laptop, a mobile device, a Blu-ray player,
and a satellite receiver. A dual-input DVI card provides additional
connectivity for a document camera.
Display Systems
A single 4K projector configured for rear projection provides an overall
display resolution of 3840 pixels by 2160 pixels on a 14-foot wide by
eight-foot tall screen.
Switching and Signal Management
All source switching is managed internally by the Quantum Connect
Videowall Processing System.
Network
The network includes a Layer 3 Ethernet switch configured with
separate VLANs for the Quantum Connect/Control PC and the
TouchLink touchpanel and IP Link processor.
System Control
An Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch TouchLink touchpanel and an Extron
IPL 250 control processor send RS-232 control messages to the
Quantum Connect Control Software and IP control messages to the
Extron JMP 9600 HD video player. The touchpanel provides a simple,
easy-to-navigate interface, which allows even non-technical operators
to easily select from ten videowall preset window configurations, and
designate any data source selection within several presets.
 16x9 Screen

HDCP-Compliant
4K Projector

Control
VLAN
Ethernet HDMI HDMI

Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet Extron

Quantum Connect
DATA

HDCP-Compliant Videowall
Processing System
Ethernet

Extron
TLP 1000TV
10" Tabletop
TouchLink
Touchpanel

Quantum Elite
QUANTUM CONNECT 408
VIDEO WALL PROCESSOR

Control Software

Extron
JMP 9600 2K HD-SDI HD-SDI HDMI 3G-SDI HDMI HDMI HDMI HDMI DVI
HD Video Player
JMP 9600
JPEG 2000 MEDIA PLAYER

VIDEO DISK DRIVE LAN

1 2 3 4 1 2
PREV

ENTER

RS-232
COM1 COM 2 IR RELAY
Document Camera
TX RX RTS CTS TX RX 1 2 1 2

Desktop PC
S G S G
POWER
LAN
12V
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4

S G S G

Extron WiFi 1 2 3 4

IPL 250
IP Link Control Processor

Laptop

Blu-ray Player

PUSH PUSH

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

Satellite Receiver

or
Camera

iPhone

HDMI Adapter
iPad

www.extron.com 65
Command Center
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, 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 is
also present to periodically change information as
needed on the large centralized display.
Display A multi-screen videowall, occupying an area
Requirements roughly 5 feet high by 26 feet wide (1.5 m by
7.9 m), able to present at least 12 HD 1080p
sources at native resolution.
Source Types Twelve PCs displaying map and data sources with
low motion, four PCs displaying visualizations with
moderate to high motion, three standard definition
security cameras, three HD satellite feeds, and
one Blu-ray player.
System Control A simple touchpanel interface for selecting
window layout presets, as well as source
selection for each preset.
Special The shift manager needs to be able to view map
Requirements and data sources on a separate viewing station.
66 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
An Extron Quantum Elite videowall processor is configured with six
Quantum Elite dual HDMI output cards for a total of 12 HDMI outputs.
It delivers signals to the 12 display devices in the videowall. The
Quantum Elite provides the ability to display any or all 23 of the input
sources simultaneously on the videowall.
Source Connectivity
The 12 PCs displaying low-motion content are connected to 12
Extron QGE 100 IP encoders and streamed over the network to
the Quantum Elite. The four PCs displaying high-motion content are
connected directly to the videowall processor, two to a Quantum
Elite dual DVI input card, and two to a Quantum Elite dual RGB input
card. The satellite receivers and Blu-ray player are connected to two
Quantum Elite dual HDMI input cards, and the three facility security
camera feeds are connected to a Quantum Elite 12 video input card.
Display Systems
Twelve HDCP-compliant 1080p flat-panel displays provide an overall
display resolution of 23040x2160, in a space 312 inches wide by
60 inches tall (7.9 m by 1.5 m).
Switching and Signal Management
All source switching is managed internally by the Quantum Elite
videowall processor.
Network
A dedicated media network for the QGE 100 encoders includes
a Layer 3 Ethernet switch configured to support multicast traffic
and IGMP snooping to ensure efficient performance. A VLAN is
provided for the QGE 100 encoders, together with the Quantum Elite
processor and the PC running QGE 100 viewer software.
A dedicated control network includes the same Layer 3 switch,
configured with a separate VLAN for the Quantum Elite and its control
PC, and another VLAN for the control system components.
System Control
System control is facilitated by an Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch
(25 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet
control processor, which interfaces via RS-232 with the control PC
running the Quantum Elite control software. The touchpanel provides
a selection of ten or more preset window configurations, and allows
source selection within each preset, providing a highly flexible and
simple interface.
 HDCP-Compliant Displays

HDMI HDMI
Ethernet Ethernet
Control
VLAN
Extron
Quantum Elite
Scalable Multi-Graphic
Videowall Processor

MEDIA I MEDIA II
Ethernet Ethernet System
Extron
TLP 1000TV

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT
HDCP

HDCP

HDCP

HDCP

HDCP

HDCP

HDCP

HDCP
10" Tabletop TouchLink
Touchpanel
CONTROL

Quantum Elite
Control Software IN IN IN IN IN OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

ATTENTION
OBSERVE PRECAUTIONS
FOR HANDLING
ELECTROSTATIC
SENSITIVE
DEVICES

Extron
RS-232
IPL 250
IP Link Control
Processor
WARNING
COM1 COM 2 IR RELAY
TX RX RTS CTS TX RX 1 2 1 2 SEE USER GUIDE BEFORE
USING THIS EQUIPMENT
DO NOT REMOVE THIS PANEL
S G S G
POWER
LAN
NO USER-SERVICEABLE
12V PARTS INSIDE
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY
MAX 3 4 3 4 REFER ALL SERVICING TO
1 2 3 4 TX RX
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE
S G S G GROUNDED/EARTHED
DO NOT OBSTRUCT
VENTILATION GRILLES
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE

Composite or S-video

HDMI
Blu-ray Player
CCTV
Cameras
STANDBY/ON
PQLS HDMI OPEN/CLOSE FL OFF

USB

DSS Receiver
RGB HDMI

RGB DSS Receiver

HDMI

PC QGE 100 Viewer

DSS Receiver Software
HDMI
PC DVI

Ethernet
DVI

PC Ethernet
Extron
QGE 100 PC Extron
Encoder Ethernet QGE Ethernet QGE 100
Video Encoder
Network
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
Extron VLAN Extron
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2

12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN
QGE 100 Ethernet Ethernet QGE 100
12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN

Encoder
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel

Encoder
RGB PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2

12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN 12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN
DVI
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel

Extron
QGE 100 DVI Extron
Encoder Ethernet Ethernet RGB QGE 100
Encoder
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2

Extron PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2

12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN

QGE 100 Extron 12V DC

REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN

Ethernet Ethernet QGE 100

Refer all servicing to

Encoder
DVI-I DVI-I Refer all servicing to
qualified service personnel DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel

RGB
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC
EncoderCOM 1 COM 2

12V DC
REG
OUT IN 12V DC
REG
OUT IN
DVI
1.5A MAX 1.5A MAX
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel

Extron
QGE 100
DVI Extron
Encoder Ethernet Ethernet RGB QGE 100
Encoder
Extron
Extron
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2

12V DC OUT IN
QGE 100 12V DC OUT IN

QGE 100
REG REG

Encoder Ethernet Ethernet

1.5A MAX 1.5A MAX
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel

Encoder
RGB
DVI
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2

12V DC OUT IN OUT IN

12V DC
REG REG
1.5A MAX 1.5A MAX
Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I Refer all servicing to
qualified service personnel DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel

DVI
RGB

www.extron.com 67
Traffic Management Center
Overview
Traffic Management Centers centralize information from traffic cameras and
specialized applications for monitoring and managing traffic flow. Operators
use local monitors to view maps and traffic status. A large display presents
video from any of the regions traffic cameras, to be viewed as either a
thumbnail or large image, while simultaneously displaying specialized high
resolution graphics sources.
Room Needs Assessment
Staffing Numerous operators monitor and manage
traffic data on local displays. A shift manager is
also present to select which maps, traffic data,
and camera feeds are highlighted on the large
centralized display.
Display A multi-screen videowall, occupying an area
Requirements roughly 7.5 feet high by 32 feet wide (2.3 m by
9.75 m), able to present 70 to 80 traffic camera
feeds and graphical maps.
Source Types Eighty standard definition signals displaying traffic
camera feeds, four standard definition signals
displaying satellite television sources, and two
PCs displaying high resolution graphical map and
traffic data.
System Control A simple touchpanel interface that facilitates
window layout preset selection, and source
selection within each preset.
Special The system must include the capability to stream
Requirements a smaller representation of the videowall to a
cooperative agency. The shift manager needs
to be able to highlight camera feeds by applying
colored borders and titles to source windows.
68 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
System Design Solution
Videowall Processing
An Extron Quantum Elite videowall processor is configured with
seven Quantum Elite dual DVI output cards for a total of 14 DVI
outputs. It delivers signals to the 12 display devices in the videowall.
The two additional outputs provide a two-screen representation of the
videowall to two Extron VN-Matrix 225 IP encoders, which stream
the signals across a WAN - wide area network to two VN-Matrix 225
IP decoders, located at a cooperative agency. The Quantum Elite
provides the ability to display up to 84 standard definition sources,
plus two PC sources simultaneously on the videowall. Colored
borders and text titling can be applied to any displayed window.
Source Connectivity
The 80 available traffic camera feeds and four satellite receivers are
connected to the videowall processor through seven Quantum Elite
12 video input cards for composite or S-video. The two PC sources
are connected to a Quantum Elite dual RGB input card.
Display Systems
Twelve 80 inch (203 cm) SXGA+ rear projection cubes provide an
overall display resolution of 8400x2100, in a space 384 inches wide
by 96 inches tall (9.75 m by 2.4 m).
Switching and Signal Management
All source switching is managed internally by the Quantum Elite
videowall processor.
Network
A dedicated media network for the VN-Matrix streaming system
utilizes the organizations existing Layer 3 LAN and WAN, configured
to support multicast traffic and IGMP snooping to ensure efficient
performance.
A dedicated control network includes a Layer 3 Ethernet switch,
configured with a VLAN for the Quantum Elite and its control PC, and
a separate VLAN for the control system components.
System Control
System control is facilitated by an Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch
(25 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet
control processor, which interfaces via RS-232 with the control PC
running the Quantum Elite control software. The shift manager uses
the touchpanels intuitive user interface to select from several window
layout presets, and assigns any source to larger windows on the
videowall. Colored borders can also be placed around windows to
call attention to sources.
 Local Videowall

Incident
Incident

Clearing Cleared

DVI DVI
Ethernet
Control
VLAN
Extron
VNE 225 DVI
Ethernet VN-Matrix Encoder
IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232

IN
POWER OVER LAN

OUT/
LOOP

Ethernet Ethernet 12V DC AUDIO

1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN

MEDIA I MEDIA II
5A MAX SPDIF

DVI
CONTROL

Extron DVI
TLP 1000TV
IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232

IN
POWER OVER LAN

10" Tabletop IN IN IN IN IN IN IN IN OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT OUT

12V DC AUDIO
OUT/
LOOP

1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN

TouchLink
5A MAX SPDIF

Touchpanel 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Extron
Ethernet
VNE 225 DVI
VN-Matrix Encoder
Quantum Elite ATTENTION

Control Software
OBSERVE PRECAUTIONS
FOR HANDLING
ELECTROSTATIC
SENSITIVE
DEVICES

LAN
Ethernet
WARNING
SEE USER GUIDE BEFORE
USING THIS EQUIPMENT
DO NOT REMOVE THIS PANEL
NO USER-SERVICEABLE
PARTS INSIDE
REFER ALL SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE
GROUNDED/EARTHED
DO NOT OBSTRUCT
VENTILATION GRILLES
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE

Extron WAN
RS-232
Quantum Elite
Scalable Multi-Graphic
COM1 COM 2 IR RELAY
TX RX RTS CTS TX RX 1 2 1 2

Videowall Processor System

S G S G
POWER
LAN
12V
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY

RGB
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4

S G S G

Extron RGB
IPL 250 Composite Composite Ethernet
IP Link Control Processor

1-12 13-24 25-36 37-48 49-60 61-72 73-84

House Video Distribution System

Composite Composite Composite Composite PC PC

IP Decoder IP Decoder
Box Box
DVI OUT PoE DVI OUT PoE
POWER POWER

- + - +

DSS Receivers
(4 places) Composite IP Video IP Video
Stream Stream

Composite
Traffic Cameras IP Video Cameras
(100+ Locations) (50+ Locations)

Cooperative Agency

DVI DVI LAN

Incident
Incident

Extron Extron
VND 225 DVI VND 225 DVI
VN-Matrix Decoder VN-Matrix Decoder
REMOTE RS-232 IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232
IN TO PC
Clearing Cleared IN
IN
POWER POWER OVER LAN
OVER LAN

OUT/ OUT/
LOOP LOOP

12V DC 12V DC AUDIO

AUDIO OUT/LOOP 1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP
5A MAX 1 LAN 2 5A MAX SPDIF
SPDIF

Flat Panel Display Flat Panel Display

Ethernet

www.extron.com 69
Simulation Debriefing Theater

System Design Solution

Videowall Processing
An Extron Quantum Elite videowall processor, configured with two
Quantum Elite dual DVI output cards, drives the three display devices
in the videowall. It provides the ability to display any or all input
sources simultaneously.

Overview
Simulation systems provide land, sea, and air environments for virtual missions
for the training of military personnel. Team members interact with one another
during training 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 pre-
recorded simulation sessions, enabling side-by-side comparisons of each
participants 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.
Source Connectivity
The out-the-window view from three simulation systems connect via
DVI to three Extron VN-Matrix 225 IP codecs. These codecs provide
input loop-throughs that go to the videowall processor through
Quantum Elite dual DVI input cards. Three image generators for each
simulation system are connected to an Extron MGP 464 Multi-
Graphic Processor via RGB, in which the three feeds are windowed
into a single DVI output. The DVI outputs from the three MGP 464
units connect to three additional VN-Matrix 225 codecs. The input
loop-throughs of these codecs connect to the videowall processor
through Quantum Elite dual DVI input cards.
The six VNC 225 codecs, two Extron VNM Recorders, and an Extron
VNM Enterprise Controller connect to a media network. The
VNM Recorders are used to archive sessions and can replay content
on the videowall. The VNM Enterprise Controller is used to control
and manage the VNM Recorders and VN-Matrix 225 codecs.

Room Needs Assessment Display Systems

Staffing A session manager to run simulations and
Three WUXGA rear projectors arranged in a 1x3 edge-blended
personnel to be trained during simulated
missions. configuration provide an overall display resolution of 4992 pixels by
Display An edge-blended videowall, occupying an
1200 pixels in a space 25 feet wide by 6 feet tall (7.6 m by 1.8 m).
Requirements approximate area 6 feet high by 25 feet wide The 4992 horizontal pixels reflect two areas of 20 percent overlap
(1.8 m by 7.6 m). Must be capable of displaying between images for edge blending.
at least 12 sources at various sizes and locations.
Source Types Three simulation systems with four image Switching and Signal Management
generators, each providing one high resolution
All source switching is managed internally by a Quantum Elite
out-the-window - OTW view, and three medium
resolution instrument panels. videowall processor.

System Control A simple touchpanel interface for selecting

window layout presets and sources for each
preset. The touchpanel will also be used for
starting, stopping, and replaying missions
recorded by the archiving system.
Special Shift managers need to be able to identify the
Requirements source of each window by applying colored
borders.
Network
A dedicated media network for the VN-Matrix archiving system
includes a Layer 3 Ethernet switch, configured to support multicast
traffic and IGMP snooping to ensure efficient performance. A VLAN
is provided for the VN-Matrix 225 codecs, VNM Enterprise Controller,
and VNM Recorders.

A dedicated control network includes the same Layer 3 switch,

configured with a separate VLAN for the Quantum Elite and its control
PC, and another VLAN for the control system components.

System Control
System control is facilitated by an Extron TLP 1000TV 10 inch
(25 cm) TouchLink touchpanel and an Extron IPL 250 Ethernet control
processor, which interfaces via RS-232 with the control PC running
the Quantum Elite control software. The IPL 250 also interfaces with
the VNM Enterprise Controller via RS-232. The touchpanel provides
six window layout presets, and source selection within each preset.
The touchpanel can also be used to start or stop archiving, and replay
70 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
saved missions on the videowall.
 Edge-Blending Edge-Blending Edge-Blending
Projector Projector Projector
DVI DVI DVI
Ethernet
Control
VLAN
Extron
Ethernet Quantum Elite
Videowall Processing
System
Ethernet Ethernet

MEDIA II
CONTROL

Extron

MEDIA I
WARNING

TLP 1000TV
SEE USER GUIDE BEFORE
USING THIS EQUIPMENT
DO NOT REMOVE THIS PANEL
NO USER-SERVICEABLE

10" Tabletop PARTS INSIDE

REFER ALL SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL

TouchLink THIS EQUIPMENT MUST BE

GROUNDED/EARTHED
IN IN OUT IN IN IN OUT OUT
Touchpanel
DO NOT OBSTRUCT
VENTILATION GRILLES
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS EQUIPMENT
TO RAIN OR MOISTURE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Quantum Elite
Control Software

Ethernet

Ethernet
Extron
VNM Enterprise Controller
VN-Matrix Enterprise Controller Ethernet

RS-232

RS-232 Layer 3
COM1
TX RX RTS CTS
COM 2
TX RX 1
IR
2
RELAY
1 2
Network
Switch
S G S G
POWER
LAN
12V
500mA INPUT COM 3 IR RELAY
MAX 1 2 3 4 TX RX 3 4 3 4

S G S G

Extron
IPL 250
IP Link Control
Processor
Extron Extron
VNM Recorder VNM Recorder
VN-Matrix Recorder VN-Matrix Recorder

0
10
20 30 40 50
60
70
320
310
300
290
280
270
340
330

260
250
0
350

240230
10 20
30 40 50

220 210200 190

180
60

170
70
80

150
160
90
100
110
120
130
140

DVI
8090
340350
330 100
320 110

Extron
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190
20 30 40 50
10 60
0 70
8090
340350
330 100
320 110
310 120

Extron
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190

RGB
VNC 225 DVI
IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232

MGP 464 Pro

IN
POWER OVER LAN

RGB OUT/
LOOP
VN-Matrix Codec
Multi-Graphic Processor
12V DC AUDIO
1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN

RGB
5A MAX SPDIF

MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES

REMOTE LAN
DVI
INPUTS VIRTUAL INPUTS RESET

1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18

Extron Ethernet
G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232
B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V

VNC 225 DVI

B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV
IN
HDMI HDMI
POWER OVER LAN

OUT/
LOOP

Simulation System VN-Matrix Codec

50/60 Hz
12V DC AUDIO
5A MAX 1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN
SPDIF

HDMI to DVI
310
300
290
280
270
340
330
320

260
250
0
350

240230
10 20
30 40 50

220 210200 190

180
60

170
70

160
80
90
100

140
150
110
120
130

DVI DVI
20 30 40 50
10 60
0 70
8090
340350
330 100

Extron
320 110
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190
20 30 40 50
10 60
0 70
8090
340350
330 100
320 110
310 120

Extron
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190

RGB
VNC 225 DVI
IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232

MGP 464 Pro

IN
POWER OVER LAN

RGB OUT/
LOOP
VN-Matrix Codec
Multi-Graphic Processor
12V DC AUDIO
1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN

RGB
5A MAX SPDIF

MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES

REMOTE LAN
DVI
INPUTS VIRTUAL INPUTS RESET

1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18

Extron Ethernet
G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 REMOTE RS-232
IN TO PC
B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V

VNC 225 DVI

B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV
IN
HDMI HDMI
POWER OVER LAN

OUT/
LOOP

Simulation System VN-Matrix Codec

50/60 Hz
12V DC AUDIO
5A MAX 1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN
SPDIF

HDMI to DVI DVI

320
310
300
290
280
270
340
330

260
250
0
350

240230
10 20
30 40 50

220 210200 190

180
60

170
70

160
80
90
100

140
150
110
120
130

DVI
20 30 40 50
10 60
0 70
8090
340350
330 100
320 110

Extron
310 120
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190
20 30 40 50
10 60
0 70
8090
340350
330 100
320 110
310 120

Extron
300 130
290 140
280 150
270 160
260 170
250 180
240
230 220 210 200 190

RGB
VNC 225 DVI
IN TO PC REMOTE RS-232

MGP 464 Pro

IN
POWER OVER LAN

RGB OUT/
LOOP
VN-Matrix Codec
Multi-Graphic Processor
12V DC AUDIO
1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN

RGB
5A MAX SPDIF

MGP/WINDOWALL PRO SERIES

REMOTE LAN
DVI
INPUTS VIRTUAL INPUTS RESET

1 2 3 4 5 8 11 14 17
RS-232/422
R R R R VID VID VID VID VID
R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y Y Y Y Y Y
BACKGROUND OUTPUTS
6 9 12 15 18

Extron
G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV G/Y H/HV VID VID VID VID VID R/ G/Y B/

Ethernet
VID VID VID VID B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y B-Y
C C C C C
100- 240V -A MAX
7 10 13 16 19 REMOTE RS-232
IN TO PC
B/C V B/C V B/C V B/C V VID VID VID VID VID H/ V

VNC 225 DVI

B-Y B-Y B-Y B-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y R-Y HV
IN
HDMI HDMI
POWER OVER LAN

OUT/
LOOP

Simulation System VN-Matrix Codec

50/60 Hz
12V DC AUDIO
5A MAX 1 LAN 2 OUT/LOOP DVI-I IN
SPDIF

HDMI to DVI DVI

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. A simple user
interface is available for the system operator that allows for quick
recall of system presets with predefined window layouts.
Extron videowall processors are used in a variety of large screen
or multiple 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.

Small Videowall Processors

Extron videowall processors for small videowalls typically support array sizes
with 9 or fewer displays. The Extron WindoWall Pro features a modular,
scalable architecture for systems that are integrated with matrix switchers.

Mid-Sized Videowall Processors

Extron videowall processors used in mid-sized videowalls accommodate up
to 14 displays. The Extron Quantum Connect is an HDCP-compliant, card
frame-based videowall processor with eight slots for input and output cards,
preinstalled at the factory into fixed configurations.

Large, Scalable Videowall Processors

Extron offers videowall processing systems for large videowalls with up to 28
displays or more. The Extron Quantum Elite is an HDCP-compliant, highly
scalable, expandable videowall processing system available in 8 or 15 slot
card frames.
Small Videowall Processors

WindoWall Pro
Multi-Window HDCP-Compliant
Videowall Processing System
The Extron WindoWallProSystem is a
powerful and versatile, yet user-friendly
approach for multi-display videowall systems.
It features a highly scalable architecture that
delivers optimum performance and reliability.
Full HDCP compliance at all HDMI inputs
and outputs assures worry-free presentation
of protected content. WindoWallConsole
software is the user interface to the system,
facilitating intuitive, straightforward control
and configuration of videowall systems, and
the creation of presentations with multiple,
independent windows for displaying graphics,
HDTV, and video. WindoWallPro is typically
used to manage images on two to six screens.
The WindoWallProSystem is an ideal choice
WindoWall Pro Processor
for applications that require highly reliable,
multi-window videowall systems.

FEATURES:
Scalable videowall systems from 1x2 up to 2x3
and larger
Inputs - per WindoWallPro processor: Four
universal analog video inputs on BNCs for
RGBHV up to 1920x1200 and 2K, component
video up to 1080p/60 HDTV, S-video, or
composite video; live background input on
HDMI; and four optional HDMI inputs
Output - per WindoWallPro processor: Scaled
picture-in-picture output on HDMI and BNCs as
RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB, or HD component video
Dedicated high performance video and graphics
processing for each display or video cube
Four independent windows per display of video,
HDTV, and high resolution computer-video
Wizard-based graphical user interface for
videowall system setup
RGB, HDTV component video, and HDCP-
compliant HDMI output
HDCP Visual Confirmation provides a green
signal when encrypted content is sent to a non- WindoWall Console Software
compliant display EDID Emulation provides selectable resolutions
KeyMinder continuously verifies HDCP and refresh rates to ensure reliable operation
compliance for quick, reliable switching Text overlay for window caption labeling
Virtual canvas for on-screen videowall 100 memory presets for videowall layout
visualization and dynamic window placement configurations
and sizing 3:2NTSC and 2:2PAL pulldown detection
Optional HDMI inputs Aspect ratio control
Selectable output rates from 640x480 to Internal test patterns for calibration and setup
1920x1200, including HDTV1080p/60 and 2K Ethernet monitoring and control
Adjustments for window positioning, sizing, RS-232 and RS-422 control port
zoom, and priority; background and window Rack-mountable 2U, full rack width metal
border color selection enclosure with included brackets
GraphicStillStore enables use of uploaded Includes LockIt HDMI cable lacing brackets
graphics as background images
Internal universal power supply
Live video background from a dedicated HDMI
Product Commissioning Services available
source
MODEL VERSION PART#
WindoWall 102 Pro Two Processors for 1x2 Walls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-177-02
WindoWall 102 Pro DI Two Processors with HDMI for 1x2 Walls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-177-12
WindoWall 103 Pro Three Processors for 1x3 Walls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-177-03
WindoWall 103 Pro DI Three Processors with HDMI for 1x3 Walls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-177-13

74 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

Mid-Sized Videowall Processors

Quantum Connect
HDCP-Compliant Videowall Processing System
The Extron Quantum Connect is an
HDCP-compliant videowall processor that
delivers the same high quality video scaling,
windowing capability, and reliable, real-time
performance as Extrons flagship Quantum
Elite. QuantumConnect is ideal for small
to medium-sized videowalls with two to 14
screens in installations with permanent AV
system configurations. It supports a wide
variety of input, output, and windowing
capabilities in a small form factor, and features
high performance video scaling technology
capable of producing superior quality images.
The Quantum Connect is a non-expandable
card-cage design that is populated at the
factory with user-selected combinations of
input and output cards for 3G-SDI, HDMI, DVI,
RGB, HDTV or video sources. Each HDMI or
DVI-I dual output card supports up to 128
video/graphic source windows.

FEATURES:
Videowall processing for mid-sized videowalls
with up to 14 displays
Card frame videowall processing system
available with eight slots
Supports 3G-SDI, HDMI, DVI, RGB analog, HD
component, and standard video input signals
Two input 3G-SDI card accepts SDI, HD-SDI,
and 3G-SDI signals from 270Mbps up to
2.97Gbps
HDMI, DVI, and RGB analog output options
support many display types
HDCP-compliant input/output options
HDCP Visual Confirmation provides a green
signal when encrypted content is sent to a non-
compliant display
Key Minder continuously verifies HDCP Quantum Connect Control Software
compliance for quick, reliable switching
High speed, dedicated video/graphic bus
delivers real-time performance
Dual HDMI/DVI output card supports resolutions
Dual input card for DVI signals
up to 1920x1200 and HDTV1080p/60Hz
12-channel video input card supports any mix of
HDCP encryption status LEDs on HDMI inputs
composite or S-video signals
and outputs
Dual input card for analog RGB or HD
Dual DVI/RGB output card supports resolutions
component video signals
up to 1920x1200 and HDTV1080p/60Hz
High quality image upscaling and downscaling
Up to 128 video/graphic windows per dual
output card Supports digital and analog input signals up to
1920x1200
Bezel Compensation for Flat-Panel Displays
Easy-to-use configuration and control software
Dual input card for HDMI or DVI graphics and
video Optimal reliability for critical environments

MODEL
Call Extron for part numbers and prices

Note: Part numbers and pricing for complete system configurations are available. Please contact your
Extron customer support representative for more information. The Quantum Connect is factory-configured
with the I/O configuration specified at time of ordering. It is not field-expandable. For applications requiring
future expansion in the field, see the Quantum Elite.

www.extron.com 75
Large, Scalable Videowall Processors

Quantum Elite
HDCP-Compliant Scalable Videowall Processing System
The Extron QuantumElite is an HDCP-
compliant, scalable, expandable videowall
processor configurable to support a variety
of input, output, and windowing capabilities.
It features high performance video scaling
capable of producing very high quality images.
The QuantumElite offers two card cages that
support various combinations of input and
output cards for 3G-SDI, HDMI, DVI, RGB,
HDTV or video sources. Hundreds of additional
DVI or RGB sources can be streamed over
an IP network to the QuantumElite using the Quantum Elite 615
Extron QGE 100 graphics capture encoder.
Each HDMI or DVI-I dual output card supports
up to 128 video/graphic source windows, and
multiple QuantumElite card cages can be
cascaded to create very large display arrays.
A dedicated, high-speed video/graphic bus
maintains real-time performance even under
heavy loading of inputs.

FEATURES:
Scalable videowall processing for large
videowalls with up to 28 displays or more
Card frame videowall processing system
available with 8 or 15 slots
Scalable, field-expandable systems: Extron field
staff can add cards or cascade card frames to
add more inputs and outputs
Supports 3G-SDI, HDMI, DVI, RGB analog, HD
component, and standard video input signals
Two input 3G-SDI card accepts SDI, HD-SDI,
and 3G-SDI signals from 270Mbps up to
2.97Gbps
HDMI, DVI, and RGB analog output options
support many display types
HDCP-compliant input/output options
HDCP Visual Confirmation provides a green
signal when encrypted content is sent to a non-
compliant display
Key Minder continuously verifies HDCP
compliance for quick, reliable switching
High speed, dedicated video/graphic bus
delivers real-time performance
Dual HDMI/DVI output card supports resolutions
up to 1920x1200 and HDTV1080p/60Hz
HDCP encryption status LEDs on HDMI inputs
and outputs
Dual DVI/RGB output card supports resolutions
up to 1920x1200 and HDTV1080p/60Hz
Up to 128 video/graphic windows per dual
output card
Output Overlap for Edge-blended Applications
Bezel Compensation for Flat-Panel Displays
Quantum Elite Control Software
Dual input card for HDMI or DVI graphics and
video
Dual input card for DVI signals
Dual input card for analog RGB or HD
component video signals
12-channel video input card supports any mix of
composite or S-video signals
IP streaming enables interfacing of hundreds of
RGB/DVI input signals with QGE100 Quantum
Graphics Encoders
Background keying for stored image files
High quality image upscaling and downscaling
Supports digital and analog input signals up to
1920x1200
Easy-to-use configuration and control software
Solid state flash storage in 15-slot frame
eliminates risk of virus retention and allows
simple removal of system data
Ruggedized real-time operating system and
power redundancy features support 24/7
operation

MODEL VERSION
Quantum Elite 408 4U/8 Slot Card Frame
Quantum Elite 615 6U/15 Slot Card Frame

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

76 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

Large, Scalable Videowall Processors

QEC I2SDI
Quantum Elite 3G-SDI Input Card
FEATURES:
Accepts two SDI, HD-SDI, or 3G-SDI signals
on two HD-BNC connectors - standard BNC
adapters included
Accepts data rates from 270 Mbps to 2.97 Gbps
Compatible with SDI, HD-SDI, and 3G-SDI
signals from standard definition 480i and 576i to
HDTV 1080p/60 Hz
Auto input source detection simplifies system
programming to streamline integration of new
sources into the Quantum Elite
Motion adaptive deinterlacing delivers optimized
image quality through advanced motion
compensation
Film mode cadence detection and processing
ensures optimum image quality is retained for
sources originating from film
Automatic input cable equalization maintains
signal integrity when long cable runs are required

MODEL VERSION
QEC I2SDI Two Input 3G-SDI Card

QEC I2HDMI
Quantum Elite HDMI Input Card
FEATURES:
Accepts two HDMI or DVI-D signals
Compatible with resolutions up to 1920x1200
and HDTV 1080p/60
HDCP-compliant when used with Quantum
Elite HDMI output cards and HDCP-compliant
displays
Auto input source detection simplifies system
programming to streamline integration of new
sources into the Quantum Elite
Native 4:4:4 color quantization
High performance scaling technology optimizes
real-time image processing capacity for the
dedicated video/graphic bus

MODEL VERSION
QEC I2HDMI Two Input HDMI Card

QEC I2DVI
Quantum Elite DVI Input Card
FEATURES:
Accepts two DVI-D input signals  Native 4:4:4 color quantization
 Compatible with resolutions up to 1920x1200  High performance scaling technology optimizes
and HDTV 1080p/60 real-time image processing capacity for the
 Auto input source detection simplifies system dedicated video/graphic bus
programming to streamline integration of new
sources into the Quantum Elite

MODEL VERSION
QEC I2DVI Two Input DVI Card

QEC I2RGB
Quantum Elite RGB/HD Component Video Input Card
FEATURES:
Accepts two RGBHV, RGsB, and YPbPr input Native 4:4:4 RGB and 4:2:2 HD color
signals quantization
 Compatible with resolutions up to 1920x1200 High quality motion adaptive 1080i deinterlacing
and HDTV 1080p/60, and supports custom High performance scaling technology optimizes
resolutions real-time image processing capacity for the
 Auto input source detection simplifies system dedicated video/graphic bus
programming to streamline integration of new
sources into the Quantum Elite

MODEL VERSION
QEC I2RGB Two Input Analog RGB/YUV Card

www.extron.com 77
Large, Scalable Videowall Processors

QEC I12VID
Quantum Elite Video Input Card
FEATURES:
High density input configuration allows for up to
12 composite or S-video source connections
 Accepts NTSC, PAL, and SECAM standard
definition video in any combination
Accommodates any mix of composite or S-video
sources
 Auto input source detection simplifies system
programming to streamline integration of new
sources into the Quantum Elite
 High performance scaling technology optimizes
real-time image processing capacity for the
dedicated video/graphic bus
 Native 4:2:2 color quantization
High quality de-interlacing
High quality composite video decoding
Time base stabilization and automatic gain
control for adaptability to poor quality video
sources

MODEL VERSION
QEC I12VID 12 Input Video/S-Video Card

QEC O2HDMI
Quantum Elite HDMI Output Card
FEATURES:
Two HDMI outputs deliver HDMI or DVI signals to Display up to 128 windows per output card
drive two videowall displays Customize windows with captions, borders, and
HDCP-compliant when used with Quantum Elite titles
HDMI input cards and HDCP-compliant displays Output resolutions up to 1920x1200 and HDTV
High performance scaling technology with 1080p/60
dedicated image processing for
low and high resolution video optimizes images
for the videowall displays

MODEL VERSION
QEC O2HDMI Two Output HDMI Card

QEC O2
Quantum Elite DVI-I Output Card
FEATURES: 
Two DVI-I outputs deliver DVI or analog RGB Display up to 128 windows per output card
signals to drive two videowall displays  Customize windows with captions, borders, and
High performance scaling technology with titles
dedicated image processing for low and high Output resolutions up to 1920x1200 and HDTV
resolution video optimizes images for the 1080p/60
videowall displays
 Delivers consistent, high quality image
performance regardless of input load

MODEL VERSION
QEC O2 Two Output DVI/RGBHV Card

78 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

Large, Scalable Videowall Processors

QGE 100
DVI/RGB Computer Screen Capture IP Encoder
The Extron QGE 100 Quantum Graphics Allows simple connection of a DVI or RGB
Encoder is used to stream RGB or DVI screen source to an IP network
captures from PCs or other graphic sources Streams standard, routable IP packets on an
to QuantumElite videowall processors. It existing network or a dedicated media network
provides high scalability, allowing hundreds Lossless compression with 4:4:4, 24-bit color
of sources such as maps, data screens, and source reproduction maintains image fidelity
other low-motion graphic input signals to be while minimizing network bandwidth
interfaced to QuantumElite over an IP network. Compatible with DVI input resolutions up to
The QGE100 applies high performance, 1920x1200 and analog RGB input resolutions up
lossless compression with 4:4:4, 24-bit color to 1600x1200
source reproduction while using low bandwidth Operates independently of source machine
streaming into a QuantumElite processor or operating system and hardware
QGE100 Viewer software. Imposes no additional load on the source
machine CPU performance
Image compression and user-defined bit rate
FEATURES:
settings limit network traffic
Stream RGB or DVI computer-video screen
Interface hundreds of DVI or RGB inputs into the
captures to the QuantumElite over an IP
QuantumElite
network

MODEL VERSION PART#

QGE 100 Quantum Graphics Encoder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-1113-01
QGE 100 RMK QGE 100 Rack Mount Kit - Front Plate. . . . . . . . . . . . 70-755-01
QGE 100 PS QGE 100 Replacement Power Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . 70-754-01

HDCP-Compliant Displays
PCs
DVI
DVI

HDMI

CCTV Cameras
POWER DATA

Composite or S-video
HDMI
DSS Receivers HDMI QUANTUM ELITE

Extron
Quantum Elite QGE 100
Scalable Multi-Graphic Videowall Processor System Viewer software

Quantum Elite
Control Software
Control
Extron VLAN
Extron
QGE 100 QGE
QGE 100
Encoder Video
Encoder
Network
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2

Extron VLAN PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2

12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN

QGE 100 Extron 12V DC

REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN

Encoder QGE 100

Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel

RGB Encoder
DVI
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2

12V DC OUT IN 12V DC OUT IN

REG REG
1.5A MAX 1.5A MAX
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel

Extron
DVI Extron
QGE 100 RGB
Encoder QGE 100
Encoder
PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2
Extron PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2

12V DC
REG
OUT IN

QGE 100 Extron 12V DC

REG
OUT IN

QGE 100
1.5A MAX 1.5A MAX

Encoder
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel

RGB PERIPH PC COM 1 COM 2 PERIPH PC

Encoder
COM 1 COM 2

12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN 12V DC
REG
1.5A MAX
OUT IN DVI
Refer all servicing to Refer all servicing to
DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I DVI-I
qualified service personnel qualified service personnel

DVI
RGB

QGE 100 with Direct Quantum Elite Inputs

Display streamed QGE 100 sources alongside direct video and
graphic inputs using the Quantum Elite videowall processor

www.extron.com 79
Large, Scalable Videowall Processors

S3 Videowall Commissioning
Product Commissioning Service for
Extron Videowall Processors
Extron Videowall Commissioning is a proactive,
on-site service that ensures your Quantum
Elite, Quantum Connect, or WindoWall Pro
processing system meets your customers
specifications for performance. An Extron
Systems Design Engineer - SDE will provide
personalized assistance, from conception to
completion, to help you deliver a system that
fully meets the expectations of your customer.

FEATURES:
Extron on-site support services for Quantum
and WindoWall Pro videowall processors
Ensures videowall system designs meet
performance requirements
Pre-installation design review and assistance
On-site support with an Extron Systems
Design Engineer
Videowall product performance optimization
and configuration
Videowall system operator training

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 will review your final
system design diagram, prior to commissioning, to verify that it will
provide optimal videowall performance.
Window layout optimization Using your wiring schematic and
window layout drawings, we will create a project file that includes all
aspects of the system including videowall parameters, I/O routing, and
window layout presets. Once on-site, the Extron SDE will verify the
presets, configure source parameters, and deliver to you a completed
project file.
On-site processor and source optimization When on-site, the
Extron SDE will optimize all Quantum or WindoWall Pro 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 will verify that window layout
presets are being recalled correctly, and that the processor is correctly
responding to any commands it receives from an external control
system, if present.
Basic Quantum or WindoWall control software training for the
system operator After correct processor control is verified, the
Extron SDE will provide training on the control softwares user interface,
as well as how to perform system adjustments and design window
layouts.
A site preparedness form will be provided to you before the arrival of an
Extron SDE, to guide you through the pre-commissioning requirements.
Upon completion of the commissioning, you will be issued a
site acceptance form to facilitate signoff of the Extron Videowall
Commissioning service.
Developing a Commissioning Plan
Extron will assist you in developing a commissioning plan for the
installation. Please contact your local Extron sales representative or
sales office to discuss:
The job site location
The system application, such as a network operations center,
command and control center, corporate lobby, or retail center
How the customer will use the system, and if known, the layouts for
the video window presets
The current system design, including switcher size, sources, display
type, resolution, and cable distance estimates
The primary method of user control, be it Quantum or WindoWall
control software, or an external control system and touchpanel
interface
Site considerations, such as general site availability, or access
restrictions for individuals or equipment
Contact details for the primary AV designer
Anticipated dates for equipment delivery, installation, commissioning,
and project completion

MODEL VERSION PART#

S3 Videowall Commissioning Product Commissioning Services.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 03-001-01

80 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
viewers vision is occupied by an object. An arc minute is equal to
1/60 of a degree, with 360 degrees comprising a complete circle.

External Video Data Outputs

Inputs

Unidirectional High-speed Video Bus

Intra-system Data

Bi-directional 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
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. The 3G
stands for three gigabits per second which is twice the bit rate of the
1.485 Gbps HD-SDI signal.
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 moir 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.
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
viewers 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
82 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
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.
B
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
AV Glossary
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
had three guns one for each red, green and blue color.
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.
Color depth
Describes the number of bits used to represent the color of a single
pixel in a bitmapped image or video frame buffer. A common bit depth
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.
Component digital
Digital video using separate color components, such as Y, Cb,
Cr. Digital recording formats such as D1 (Sony, BTS/Philips) and
D5 (Panasonic) utilize component digital recording technology.
Component digital is the digital representation of the component
analog signal set, Y, B-Y, R-Y; it is often represented as 4:2:2. The
encoding parameters are specified by ITU-R BT.601-2 (formerly
known as CCIR 601).
Component video
Color television systems start with three channels of information: red,
green, and blue (RGB). In the process of translating these channels
to a single composite video signal, they are often first converted
to Y, R-Y, and B-Y. Both three-channel systems, RGB and Y, R-Y,
B-Y, are component video signals. They are the components that
eventually make up the composite video signal. Higher quality
program production is possible if the elements are assembled in the
component domain.
Composite video
An all-in-one video signal comprised of the luma (black and white),
chroma (color), blanking pulses, sync pulses, and color burst.
Compression
The art and science of reducing the amount of data required to
represent a picture or a stream of pictures and sound before sending
or storing it. Compression systems are designed to eliminate
redundant or visually imperceptible information to the desired data
level while allowing the original information to be reproduced at the
desired quality.
Contrast
The range of light and dark values in a picture, or the ratio between
the maximum and the minimum brightness values. It is also the name
of a TV monitor adjustment, which increases or decreases the level of
contrast of a displayed picture. Also called white level.
Contrast ratio
The ratio of a displays highest light output level divided by its lowest
light output level.
Crosshatch
A test pattern consisting of vertical and horizontal lines used for
converging a color display device.
CRT
See cathode ray tube.
CVT
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.
D
Digital
A system of data or image values in the form of discrete, non-
continuous codes, such as binary. When data is in a digital format,
it can be processed, stored (recorded), and reproduced easily while
maintaining its original integrity.
DisplayPort
A digital audio/video interconnect standard designed primarily for use
between a computer and display device. DisplayPort supports data
rates up to 10.8 Gbps at a distance of two meters over standard
copper cable. DisplayPort is not directly compatible with DVI or HDMI,
but a DisplayPort connector can pass these signals, and the standard
does provide an emulation mode for ease of integration with DVI or
HDMI equipped products.
Distribution amplifier
A device that distributes multiple outputs from a single source
input. Distribution Amplifiers (DAs) not only split signals, but provide
amplification and enhancement features to maintain signal integrity.
DLP
Digital Light Processing. An imaging technology for video projection
developed by Texas Instruments, based on the modulation of light
reflected from mirror elements known as Micromirrors. Each pixel
is represented by its own Micromirror, which mechanically tilts in
accordance to the extent of light reflected toward or away from
the screen. A matrix of Micromirrors comprising the video image is
situated on a microchip, or DMD (Digital Micromirror Device). DLP
is implemented as a three-chip configuration (one DMD for each of
the RGB colors), or as a one-chip configuration (R, G, and B are
sequentially processed by a single DMD via a color wheel).
DMT
Display Monitor Timing. A VESA standard defining signal timing
information for computer-video signals. DMT was superseded by the
GTF standard.
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AV Glossary

Dual-link DVI EOC

Dual-link DVI supports 2 x 165 MHz (2048x1536 at 60 Hz, Emergency Operations Center. A facility run by national or regional
1920x1080 at 85 Hz). A dual-link implementation utilizes all 24 of governments and public safety organizations. EOCs are used to
the available pins. A dual-link DVI output has two TMDS links and monitor critical situations.
twice the bandwidth of single-link DVI, and can therefore support
much higher resolutions. With two TMDS links, the number of data Ethernet
channels is doubled, although there is still only one clock signal, so A Local Area Network (LAN) standard officially known as IEEE 802.3.
both links are clocked identically. Apples 30 inch Cinema Display, with Ethernet and other LAN technologies are used for interconnecting
a native resolution of 2560x1600, is an example of a display requiring computers, printers, workstations, terminals, servers, etc. within
dual-link DVI. the same building or campus. Ethernet operates over twisted pair
and over coaxial cable at speeds starting at 10 Mbps. For LAN
DVD interconnectivity, Ethernet is a physical link and data link protocol
Digital Versatile Disc. An optical disc similar in physical size to a reflecting the two lowest layers of the OSI Reference Model.
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.
F
Foot candle
DVI
A unit of illumination from one candle at a distance of one foot. Equal
Digital Visual Interface. The digital video connectivity standard that
to one lumen incident to one square foot.
was developed by DDWG (Digital Display Working Group). This
connection standard offers two different connectors: one with 24 pins
Frame
that handles digital video signals only, and one with 29 pins that
In interlaced video, a frame is one complete picture. A video frame is
handles both digital and analog video. This standard uses TDMS
made up of two fields, or two sets of interlaced lines. In film, a frame
(Transition-Minimized Differential Signaling) from Silicon Image and
is one still picture of a series that makes up a motion picture.
DDC (Display Data Channel) from VESA (Video Electronics Standards
Association).
Fresnel lens
A thin, flat lens made by cutting concentric circular grooves into
DVI-D
its surface. The grooves act like prisms to bend and focus light.
DVI connector that supports digital signals only.
The Fresnel lens is often used for the condenser lens in overhead
projectors and in studio spotlights.
DVI-I
DVI connector that supports both digital and analog signals.
Front projection screen
A light-reflecting screen used when the image is projected from a
E source in front of the screen. Also see Rear projection screen.
Front screen projection - To project an image from the audiences side
EBU of a light-reflecting screen.
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
G
provided by the EBU are the exchange of audiovisual content for
news production and co-production, and transmission services for
Gamma
The light output of a CRT is not linear with respect to voltage input.
sports, music, and other live events.
The difference between what you should have and what is actually
output is known as gamma.
Edge blended projection
An approach to delivering a seamless image from multiple projectors.
This is achieved by aligning the images from adjacent projectors so
Gamma correction
Before being displayed, the linear RGB data must be processed
the images overlap each other, typically by 20%. The overlapped
(gamma corrected) to compensate for the gamma of the display.
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. GTF
Generalized Timing Formula. A VESA standard defining signal timing
information for computer-video signals. Signal parameters are
EDID
determined using a formula based on horizontal and vertical blanking
Extended Display Identification Data. EDID is a data structure used
intervals, horizontal frequency, vertical frequency, and horizontal and
to communicate video display information, including native resolution
vertical sync polarity. GFT was superseded by the CVT standard.
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
GUI
Graphical User Interface. The visual element of an operating system
quality. This communication takes place over the DDC Display Data
or device that serves as the user interface. GUIs are seen in computer
Channel.
applications, Web sites, and touchpanel interfaces.

84 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide

AV Glossary
H HDMI 1.4 Adds HDMI Ethernet Channel, Audio Return Channel,
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
High-Definition Multimedia Interface. An interface used primarily in
consumer electronics for the transmission of uncompressed high
definition video, up to eight channels of audio, and control signals,
over a single cable. HDMI is the de facto standard for HDTV displays,
Blu-ray Disc players, and other HDTV electronics. Introduced in 2003,
the HDMI specification has gone through several revisions:
HDMI 1.0
Defined a maximum single-link bandwidth of 165 MHz, supporting
resolutions up to 1920x1080 @ 60 Hz; color depth of 24 bits; and up
to eight channels of 24-bit audio. HDCP content protection and
CEC - Consumer Electronics Control were optional.
HDMI 1.1
Added support for DVD-Audio.
HDMI 1.2 Added support for SACD Super Audio CD quality audio.
A later revision also added specification for the CEC command set.
HDMI 1.3 Increased single-link bandwidth to 340 MHz for signal
resolutions beyond 1080p/60. Added support for Deep Color,
automatic lip sync correction, and Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master
audio.
supports higher maximum resolutions, adds 3D support up to 1080p,
and creates a new HDMI Micro Connector.
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 1280720 pixels (720p) or 19201080 pixels (1080i/1080p).
I
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.
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AV Glossary
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.
L The luma signal represents brightness in a video picture. Luma is any
Landscape
Orientation of a display device so that it is wider than it is tall. This is
the common orientation for a display.
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 2nd 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 3rd 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.
86 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
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.
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 devices
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.
AV Glossary
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.
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 Rear projection screen
Overscan
The result when active picture area extends past the boundaries of
the display screen.
P
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.
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.
R
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
processing latency, or frames are dropped.
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.
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AV Glossary

RGBS 10 bit depth and 4:2:2 color quantization. Ancillary data is included
The Red, Green, and Blue chroma information in a video signal, with and typically is comprised of audio or other metadata. Up to sixteen
a separate channel for the combined horizontal and vertical sync audio channels can be transmitted. Audio is organized into blocks of
signals. four stereo pairs.

RGsB Server
Red, Green, Blue, and Sync on Green. A three-wire signal with A PC whose primary function is to provide data, images, or
separate red, green, and blue video signals with the sync (horizontal applications to a host or client PC.
and vertical) travelling on the same wire as the green signal.
Single-link DVI
The electrical signaling used to transmit data over DVI is known as
S Transition Minimized Differential Signaling, or TMDS. A single TMDS
link carries three data channels and one clock signal, with a maximum
Scaler video frequency of 165 MHz, capable of standard resolutions up to
A device that takes a standard video signal, decodes it, and uses 1920x1200 pixels. See also Dual-link DVI.
advanced digital signal processing technology to scale the image
to the optimal or native resolution of a display device. (Usually at a
SMPTE
higher rate).
Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers. A global
organization, based in the United States, that sets standards for
Scaling baseband visual communications. This includes film as well as video
Scaling is changing the size of an image to fit the native rate (or pixel and television standards.
size) of a display device, without changing its shape. For example,
to fit a 720x480 resolution TV image on a 1024x768 XGA resolution
Software
display, the TV image has to be scaled up; pixels need to be
The programs used to instruct a processor and its peripheral
created in order for the original image to fill the screen. Alternately, to
equipment to perform prescribed operations.
fit a 1280x1024 SXGA resolution image on an XGA resolution screen,
the image will need to be scaled down; pixels need to be removed
SOC
from the original image in order for it to fit on the screen. There are
Security Operations Center. A location within a building where staff
many different methods for image scaling, and some produce better
monitors and manages security-related tasks for an organization. This
results than others.
may include monitoring live camera feeds, reviewing security camera
recordings, electronically monitoring building access, and controlling
SCADA
lighting, alarms, and vehicle barriers.
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. Generally refers to industrial
control systems used to monitor and manage industrial infrastructure,
SOG
or facility-based processes used in manufacturing, production,
Sync On Green. The combined horizontal and vertical sync signals
power generation, fabrication, and refining processes. Facility-
integrated with the green video signal.
based processes may be applied to public or private organizations,
including oil and gas pipelines, electrical power transmission and
SVGA
distribution, water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection
Super VGA. A screen resolution of 800x600 pixels and above.
and treatment, wind farms, or large communication systems.
S-video
Scan
A composite video signal separated into the luma (Y is for luma, or
(1) In video, to move an electron beam across the raster in a camera
black and white information; brightness) and the chroma (C is an
or monitor. (2) To feed visual information into a computer by means of
abbreviation for chroma, or color information).
an optical device called a scanner.
Switch
SCIF
A device that cross-connects network devices. Today, switches are
Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility. An enclosed room or
broadly deployed on modern industrial and consumer networks.
area that is used to process Sensitive Compartmented Information
Switching is a Layer 2 function. Ethernet frames are delivered
- SCI level classified information. The classified information may
between MAC addresses connected to network switches.
be contributed from various intelligence sources or methods, and
must be handled in a defined method. All activity and conversation
Switched fabric
occurring inside an SCIF is restricted from public disclosure.
A network topology where network nodes connect with each other
via one or more network switches (particularly via crossbar switches,
SD
hence the name). The term is in contrast to a broadcast medium,
Standard Definition.
such as early forms of Ethernet.
SDI
SXGA
Serial Digital Interface. Standard definition video is carried on this
Super Extended Graphics Array. A graphics standard with a resolution
270 Mbps data transfer rate. Video pixels are characterized with a
of 1280x1024 (1,310,720 pixels), with an aspect ratio of 5:4. This
exceeds XGA (1024 x 768, at 786,432 pixels).
88 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide
AV Glossary
SXGA+
Super Extended Graphics Array Plus. Commonly used on 14 inch or
15 inch laptop LCD screens with a resolution of 1400 1050 pixels.
T organization dedicated to facilitating and promoting personal
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 The display array is typically driven by a video processor that provides
UHP
Ultra High Performance. A mercury arc lamp technology developed
by Philips in 1995 for use in commercial and consumer projectors.
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.
UXGA
Ultra Extended Graphic 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
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
may be connected to the same physical system.
Videowall
A grouping of display devices to produce a single image across the
array, or visually subdivided to show multiple images simultaneously.
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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90 Extron Videowall Systems Design Guide


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