DVI/RGB Input Card for DigitalMedia Switchers

The DMC-DVI is an input card for a Crestron® DigitalMedia™ Switcher, providing one DVI digital video input or analog RGB/Component input[1], plus stereo analog audio. The DMC-DVI handles computer resolutions up to WUXGA 1920 x 1200, as well as HDTV up to 1080p60. Professional balanced/unbalanced audio inputs are included to accept a stereo line level audio signal, which is converted to digital and embed along with the digital video to create a new HDMI™ stream for distribution via DigitalMedia.

Additional connections on the card include an HDMI output and a USB HID device port. The HDMI output simply passes the audio and video input signals through to feed a local device, or to feed a second DM switcher for output expansion purposes. The USB HID port connects to the source device (i.e. computer or media server) at the central equipment rack, allowing it to be controlled by a mouse or keyboard located in another room, or at a presentation lectern, conference table, or some other remote location.

The DMC-DVI may also be used with the DMCI DigitalMedia Card Interface to create a very handy problem-solving tool with many useful functions. For instance, it can be used to merge DVI digital video and analog stereo audio into a single HDMI output. As part of a complete Crestron control system, it can be used to detect and manage EDID and input source format information, to assess a device's HDCP capabilities, and to extend a USB HID mouse/keyboard signal over Ethernet.

Whether installed in a DM switcher or DMCI, the DMC-DVI card affords a perfect digital upgrade for analog-based systems like Crestron MPS, QuickMedia®, and the CEN-RGBHV Series. A simple HD15 VGA cable and balanced stereo audio cable connected between the output of an MPS system and the input of the DMC-DVI allows every RGB, component, S-Video, composite video, and audio input on the MPS to be converted to DigitalMedia[3].