Glossary A–ZLetter M
Matrix switch
A matrix switch is a device that distributes several video sources to several screens in any combination, so that each source can be shown on each output.
A simple switch, by contrast, only selects one source for one output. Its size is given as the number of inputs and outputs, for example 8 × 8.
Matrix switches are used where changing sources need to go to different screens: in sports bars with several TV channels, in control rooms, conference rooms, lecture halls or on trade fair stands. A media player, a TV receiver and a laptop can thus be switched to individual screens or to all of them at once, depending on the occasion. They are controlled with buttons, a web interface or commands over RS-232.
The switch is an additional source of faults in the signal path. It must support the resolution, refresh rate and copy protection of all sources; the handling of the screen identification data determines whether sources deliver the right format. Longer runs to the screens often use dedicated transmission links. Before buying, operators should list all sources and screens and test the combination with the actual devices.