Ultra-High Bandwidth 4K Videowall Processor with HyperLane Bus

Extron VideoWall Processor 

OVERVIEW

Key Features
* Scalable 4K/60 videowall processing for display systems of any size
* Modular architecture accommodates a variety of input and output arrangements
* Future-ready 400 Gbps HyperLane™ video bus delivers unparalleled real-time performance
* Supports 4K on one, two, or four connections
* Manage multiple videowalls with varying resolutions and screen arrangements from a single processor
* Direct control via RS-232 and Ethernet

DESCRIPTION

Quantum Ultra is a modular 4K videowall processor with high-performance scaling and windowing technology which accommodates a wide range of applications. It features the Extron Vector™ 4K scaling engine and HyperLane™ video bus capable of carrying a multitude of high-resolution sources for unmatched real‑time performance. A single processor can support multiple videowalls with mixed resolutions and screen orientations, providing flexible system design with minimal complexity and cost. Portrait and landscape output support, output overlap, and mullion compensation provide compatibility with nearly any display technology. RS‑232 and Ethernet interfaces provide direct connections for control systems. Quantum Ultra’s configurability, features, and performance make it a future-ready solution for any videowall application.

Unparalleled Real-Time Performance
Quantum Ultra features a high-speed video bus that incorporates Extron HyperLane technology, which delivers real-time performance unattainable by other videowall processors.

The future-ready HyperLane video bus has a maximum throughput of 400 Gbps, providing full compatibility with the highest video resolutions currently in use, such as 4K/60 with 4:4:4 color sampling. It has the capacity to simultaneously carry more than twenty 4K/60 4:4:4 sources. It also possesses the bandwidth required to support evolving signal formats, such as 8K, as well as the higher resolutions, high dynamic range - HDR, greater color depth, and expanded color gamut these signals will provide. The HyperLane bus serves one purpose: transporting video data between input and output cards. The dedicated nature of the bus means performance is completely consistent, predictable, and unaffected by any other element of the system. This provides smooth presentation of sources, with no variance in the frame rate of the displayed source layout.

Vector 4K Scaling
Quantum Ultra incorporates the Extron-exclusive Vector 4K scaling engine, developed in‑house and engineered to deliver best-in-class image upscaling and downscaling. Vector 4K embodies several Extron-patented scaling technologies, plus a new set of image processing algorithms that deliver uncompromising scaling performance. This enables sharp, accurate 4:4:4 processing and scaling of video and computer video signals up to 4K, as well as downscaling of 4K source signals for display in small windows or on lower resolution displays without losing critical image detail. It also delivers seamless transitions between presets, with selectable cut or fade through black options.

Flexible, Modular Architecture
Quantum Ultra utilizes a modular architecture to meet the needs of any application. A centralized card-frame is populated with input and output cards selected to match source and display requirements. Multiple card frames can be configured and operated as a single system to accommodate any size videowall.

The Quantum Ultra 610 is a 6U, 10-slot card frame that supports any combination of input and output cards. A robust, solid-state operating system and redundant, hot-swappable power supplies provide reliable operation and maximum up-time.

The IN4HDMI input card accepts four HDMI signals up to 2K, two HDMI signals up to 4K/30, or one signal up to 4K/60. Integrator-friendly features such as EDID Minder and HDCP authorization simplify source integration. Auto-image quickly and precisely acquires standard source formats as well as unique signal types common in military, medical, or other specialized environments.

The OUT4HDMI and OUT4DTP output cards deliver from one to four outputs at resolutions from 1024x768 to 4K/60. Custom output resolutions maximize compatibility with evolving display technology and custom LED wall applications. HDCP Visual Confirmation provides immediate visual confirmation that protected content cannot be viewed on the displays.

The OUT4DTP provides selectable DTP, XTP, and HDBaseT twisted pair output modes. When paired with the appropriate receiver, it supports distances up to 330 feet (100 meters). Power insertion on the OUT4DTP enables remote powering of DTP receivers. Bidirectional RS-232 and IR pass-through provides control of AV devices by transmitting data alongside the video signal. RS-232 can also be inserted from the Quantum Ultra Ethernet control port, allowing control of devices without the need for RS-232 ports on the control processor.

Supports Multiple Simultaneous Videowalls and Display Types
Quantum Ultra’s configurability make it compatible with nearly any display type, for any application. It accommodates a mixture of display devices with varying resolutions. Output overlap facilitates integration with edge-blended projection applications, and simplifies operation with large LED displays. Adjustable mullion compensation ensures content appears natural when magnified across flat-panel displays. Output rotation accommodates displays with portrait and landscape orientation. Custom output resolutions provide compatibility with current and future display devices, as well as custom LED walls. All of these options are available simultaneously from within a single processor, allowing multiple videowalls to be easily controlled from a single Quantum Ultra.

Advanced Features
From entertainment applications to collaborative data sharing, Quantum Ultra’s presentation features ensure your video display presents the information you need, exactly how you want to see it. Sources can be windowed and positioned anywhere on the video display, from 1/100 or less of the native source resolution to 1000 times the output resolution. Zoom capabilities allow an area within a video source to be expanded for critical viewing. Input sources and stored images can be rotated in 90-degree increments. SpeedSwitch® and Key Minder® technologies deliver virtually instantaneous switching speeds for HDCP-encrypted content. Seamless cut and fade through black transition effects are available when switching between presets, delivering fast, glitch-free, and professional-looking presentations for any application. Multiple VNC client sessions can be displayed in source windows for presenting desktop information from networked PCs. Static image files can be stored locally on the Quantum Ultra, and displayed with full keying and alpha channel support. Internally generated clocks can be presented in a variety of time formats, in multiple time zones. Up to 64 windows can be displayed per output card, allowing flexible presentation of unique and repeated live sources, stored images, and clock windows. Custom color borders can be applied to any window, with support for rounded corners, drop shadows, flashing, and transparency. Dynamically controlled border titles and overlay text can identify source names or classification levels for enhanced control room operation. Dynamic, internal test patterns simplify system configuration and display setup.

Reliable, Redundant Power
Quantum Ultra was engineered for continuous operation in mission-critical environments. Redundant, hot swappable EverLast power supplies are a standard feature, and were designed and engineered by Extron for continuous, dependable operation. Two AC power inputs, each dedicated to a single power supply, facilitate operation across separate circuits for increased redundancy. A universal operating range from 100 – 240 VAC simplifies integration anywhere in the world.

Mission-Critical, Secure Operation
A write-protected, solid-state drive provides security and stability for Quantum Ultra’s operating system. SSL communication protocol provides an encrypted connection between the Videowall Configuration Software and Quantum Ultra for system configuration, and for the digitally-signed firmware upgrades. The physical RS-232, USB, and Ethernet ports—as well as the FTP, HTTP, and other IP ports—can be enabled and disabled independently. A system event log is maintained as a locally-stored file with a user-definable maximum size, and can be downloaded directly from the processor. Access to the Quantum Ultra operating system is protected with a user-definable password, and unsolicited remote messages notify system administrators in the event of a of critical component failure.

System Configuration and Control
Quantum Ultra setup and preset configuration is performed using Extron Videowall Configuration Software - VCS, running on a PC connected to the Ethernet port. VCS simplifies configuration of even the largest and most complex systems. Settings and preset changes within the software are automatically synchronized and stored on the videowall processor, facilitating direct RS-232 or Ethernet connection of remote control systems. A full-featured control protocol allows access to preset selection, window source selection, window size, position, and visibility, window border appearance, window labeling, and many more presentation options.

Features
* Scalable 4K/60 videowall processing for display systems of any size — Quantum Ultra supports videowalls up to 36 screens in size from a single processor. Additional processors can be configured and operated as a single system to accommodate larger videowalls.
* Modular architecture accommodates a variety of input and output arrangements — The Quantum Ultra card frame can be populated with input and output cards selected to match source and display requirements for efficient system design.
* Future-ready 400 Gbps HyperLane™ video bus delivers unparalleled real-time performance — The Extron HyperLane video bus has a total throughput of 400 Gbps, easily accommodating the high-bandwidth demands of large videowalls displaying many simultaneous HD and 4K sources.
* Supports 4K on one, two, or four connections — Quantum Ultra offers the convenience of managing 4K video as a single, dual, or quad-path signal, for flexibility when working with 4K sources, peripherals, and displays.
* Manage multiple videowalls with varying resolutions and screen arrangements from a single processor — Videowalls of varying output resolutions and orientation can all be supported with a single chassis.
* Designed for 24/7, mission-critical environments — Quantum Ultra provides a high performance, high reliability display processing solution for monitoring valuable infrastructure and assets with maximum uptime.
* Integrates easily into a diverse array of 4K environments such as lobbies, auditoriums, and simulation — Quantum Ultra is optimized for use with 4K displays, windowing large numbers of high-resolution sources across multiple displays with resolutions up to 3840x2160 or greater.
* Extron Vector™ 4K scaling engine — The Vector 4K scaling engine is specifically designed for critical-quality 4K imagery, with best-in-class image upscaling and downscaling.
* Advanced 4:4:4 signal processing — 4:4:4 signal processing maintains color accuracy and fine picture detail.
* Seamless transitions — Seamless cut and fade through black transition effects are available when switching between presets, delivering fast, glitch-free, and professional-looking presentations for any application.
* Display locally stored images — Image file types, including JPEG, PNG, and bitmaps can be uploaded to the Quantum Ultra for use as backgrounds or displayed as source windows.
* Keying and Alpha channel support for image files — User-definable level or color keying for image files allows transparent backgrounds for pictures, logos, and messages. Alpha channel and transparency are also supported.
* 6U, 10-slot Card Frame — The 6U, 10-slot Quantum Ultra 610 card frame supports any combination of input and output cards for I/O sizes from 36x4 to 4x36, or anything in-between.
* Removable storage drives — The operating system and data storage drives are easily removable to accommodate security management procedures.
* Solid-state, write-protected operating system drive — The operating system runs from a solid-state, write-protected drive for reliable, long-term operation.
* Hot-swappable, dual-redundant Extron EverLast power supplies — Hot swappable dual-redundant power supplies with two AC power inputs provide reliable operation and maximum up-time.
* Front panel LEDs indicate fan and power supply status
* HDMI input card supports signals up to 4K/60 — The IN4HDMI four-channel input card accepts signals from 1024x768 to 2048x1080 and 1920x1200 at 60 Hz. Dual-channel mode supports two single path 4K/30 signals, while single-channel mode supports one dual-path or quad path 4K/60 signal. When used with HDCP-compliant displays and the HDMI output card, HDCP 1.4-encrypted sources can be displayed on the videowall.
* Auto-Image™ setup — Automatically optimizes the image by analyzing and adjusting to the video input signal. This can save time and effort in setting up a newly connected source, particularly in presentation environments where different guest presenter laptops with various output resolutions will be connected.
* Auto Input Memory — When activated, the unit automatically stores size, position, and picture settings based on the incoming signal. When the same signal is detected again, these image settings are automatically recalled from memory.
* HDMI and DTP output cards support signals up to 4K/60 — The OUT4HDMI and OUT4DTP four-channel output cards deliver signals from 1024x768 to 2048x1080 and 1920x1200 at 60 Hz. Dual-channel mode supports two single path 4K/30 signals, while single-channel mode supports one dual-path or quad path 4K/60 signal.
* Decode and display multiple VNC sources — Quantum Ultra can display streamed content sourced from PCs running a Virtual Network Computing – VNC server application. Multiple VNC streams can be presented simultaneously on the videowall for collaborative desktop sharing from local or remote PCs.
* Selectable HDMI to DVI Interface Format Correction — Enables or disables InfoFrames, and sets the correct color space for proper connection to HDMI and DVI displays.
* Up to 64 video/graphic windows per output card — Quantum Ultra offers extensive windowing capabilities, with the ability to display up to 64 video, image, and clock windows from each output card.
* Powerful window management and source scaling capabilities — Sources can windowed, layered, and positioned anywhere on the video display, from 1/100 of the native source resolution to 1000 times the output resolution.
* User-definable window borders and text labels enhance presentation and simplify source identification — Custom color borders with rounded corners, drop shadows, and transparency can be applied to any window type. A border can be set to flash to draw attention to the source window. Border titles and overlay text can be applied to a window and dynamically updated from the control system to indicate a change in the source’s name, type, status, or classification level.
* Source rotation — Sources can be rotated in 90-degree increments, providing flexible and creative presentation options for live content as well as internally stored images.
* Supports portrait and landscape screen orientation — Videowalls with a mixture of portrait and landscape displays can be simultaneously managed from a single processor.
* Output overlap for edge-blended applications — Output overlap feature supports edge-blended applications by providing redundant image data for the projection system’s blended regions.
* Mullion compensation for flat-panel displays — Adjustable compensation extends the displayed image "behind" screen bezels, accurately presenting sources which span multiple displays.
* HDCP compliant — Ensures display of content-protected media and interoperability with other HDCP-compliant devices.
* Key Minder® continuously verifies HDCP compliance for quick, reliable switching — Key Minder authenticates and maintains continuous HDCP encryption between input and output devices to ensure quick and reliable switching in professional AV environments, while enabling simultaneous distribution of a single source signal to one or more displays.
* SpeedSwitch® Technology delivers virtually instantaneous switching speeds for HDCP-encrypted content
* User-selectable HDCP authorization — Allows individual inputs to appear HDCP compliant or non-HDCP compliant to the connected source, which is beneficial if the source automatically encrypts all content when connected to an HDCP-compliant device. Protected material is not passed in non-HDCP mode.
* HDCP Visual Confirmation provides a green signal when encrypted content is sent to a non‑compliant display — A green window with an alert message is displayed when HDCP-encrypted content is transmitted to a non-HDCP compliant display, providing immediate visual confirmation that protected content cannot be viewed on the display.
* Picture controls for brightness, contrast, and detail, as well as horizontal and vertical sizing, positioning, zoom, and overscan
* Internal video test patterns for calibration and setup — Quantum Ultra offers several dynamically-generated video test patterns to facilitate proper system setup and calibration of display devices.
* Transmits up to four outputs at distances up to 330 feet (100 meters) over a shielded CATx cable (OUT4DTP) — Reduces system complexity when output extension is required for driving videowall displays up to 330’ (100m) away from the Quantum Ultra processor
* Selectable DTP, XTP, and HDBaseT output modes (OUT4DTP) — Allows selection of the type of twisted pair technology best suited for the application
* Power insertion enables remote powering of DTP receivers (OUT4DTP) — 12V DC insertion at the OUT4DTP card enables the DTP receivers to be powered over the twisted pair connections, eliminating the need for separate power supplies at the remote units. Requires one PS 124 per OUT4DTP card.
* Bidirectional RS-232 and IR insertion for AV device control (OUT4DTP) — Bidirectional RS 232 control and IR signals can be transmitted alongside the video signal over DTP connections, allowing the remote device to be controlled without the need for additional cabling. Bidirectional control insertion eliminates the need for control system wiring to remote devices.
* RS 232 insertion from the Ethernet control port (OUT4DTP) — System level device control to all remote locations via the Quantum Ultra control port, providing comprehensive control of endpoints and attached devices without needing additional equipment.
* Encrypted data connection between Quantum Ultra and configuration PC — SSL encryption provides a secure connection between Quantum Ultra and the PC running the Extron Videowall Configuration Software.
* Digitally-signed, secure firmware upgrades — Firmware updates are digitally signed and transferred across an encrypted connection for secure system upgrades.
* Physical and IP port management — The physical USB, RS-232, and Ethernet ports can be disabled independently, as can FTP, HTTP, and other IP ports.
* Event logging — A system event log is maintained as a locally stored file with a user-definable maximum size, and can be downloaded directly from the processor.
* Password protected operating system — Access to the Quantum Ultra operating system is protected with a user-definable password.
* Service maintenance alerts — System administrators can be notified of fan or power supply failure, or when recommended operating temperature is exceeded
* Power Save Mode — The unit can be placed in a low power standby state to conserve energy when not in use.
* Easy-to-use configuration and control software — The easy-to-use Videowall Configuration Software - VCS reduces configuration and preset programming time with a task-oriented, intuitive interface.
* Direct control via RS-232 and Ethernet — Locally-stored configuration file allows direct connection between the control system and Quantum Ultra.
* Full-featured control protocol — Allows access to preset selection, window source selection, window size, position, and visibility, window border appearance, window labeling, and many more presentation options.
* Reliable connectivity for HDMI cables — Extron LockIt® cable lacing brackets provide secure, reliable cable connections for Quantum HDMI inputs and outputs.

SPECIFICATIONS