To achieve the best performance using AVPro Edge’s USBC Wall Plate, a USB C cable capable of 10Gbps must be used (USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 is currently unsupported).
When looking for a proper cable, make sure it is labeled accordingly. A good cable should feature labels containing:

• USB 3.1 Gen 2
• SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps
• 10 Gbps

Finding cables with these labels helps prevent buying power only cables (unable to transmit video) or cables unable to transmit above 5Gbps.

The ideal audio/video distribution system for classrooms and conference rooms needs to be able to host presentations from a variety of sources - whether it’s a laptop, tablet, or phone. The connection needs to be quick and easy. With an ever-expanding bounty of operating systems, all processing differently, that task is a daunting one. ConferX offers a solution to this equation.

ConferX allows you to connect most sources through HDMI, USB-C, VGA and DisplayPort input ports. Once connected, the user can share their screen to any of the connected displays. Depending on your audio needs, you can also distribute and amplify the audio signal with independent audio control for each of the rooms. Audio auto-ducking features allow interoperability with pre-existing intercom systems alongside the newest 4K and multi-channel signals available.

To easily piece together your next ConferX System, we have built this step by step guide for selecting the correct products to meet your needs and AVPro standards.

Step 1: Gather the Needs of the Installation
This is the universal step for just about any project but one that can’t be overlooked. In order to put together a successful installation, the integrator needs to understand the needs and wants of the end user. This is where you will determine how many independent zones are needed, how many displays and speakers are in each zone, as well as where presenters will need to get connected.

​Step 2 - Choose The Transmitter
Luckily, ConferX offers many choices for getting sources connected to the system. We have under the table connection solutions for discrete permanent sources, as well as sleek, low profile wall plates that fit into any standard mud-ring.

• Under the Table Input HDBaseT Transmitter - AC-CXTT-AUHD-T
• In-Wall HDMI HDBaseT 4K Transmitter - AC-CXWP-HDMO-T
• In-Wall USB-C & HDMI HDBaseT 4K Transmitter - AC-CXWP-USBC-T
• In-Wall Mini DisplayPort & HDMI HDBaseT 4K Transmitter - AC-CXWP-MDP-T
• In-Wall VGA & HDMI HDBaseT 4K Transmitter - AC-CXWP-VGA-T

Step 3 - Select the Backbone (Switcher)
The backbone of every conference room needs to able to take in 4K video and multi-channel audio and direct them to the correct displays and audio systems completely independent of each other. To do this, ConferX has developed a wide range of choices for your next installation, each of which is able to handle the newest resolutions and audio codec’s being output from the latest computers and phones available.

• Two Input HDMI/HDBaseT Switch and Amplifier - AC-CX100-RAMP
• Four Input HDMI/HDBaseT Matrix Switch - AC-CX42-AUHD
• Six Input HDMI/HDBaseT Matrix Switch - AC-CX62-AUHD
• Eight Input HDMI/HDBaseT Matrix Switch - AC-CX84-AUHD

Step 4 - Choose the Receivers
Your receiver choices depend on how far you need to separate your backbone from the display, for short distances the 40 meter receiver will distribute your 4K signal just fine, but for ultra long runs you may need to go with the 100 meter option. Installing speakers in the room? Go with the AC-CX100-RAMP, even though it can be used as the backbone for a conference room, at it’s low price point you are able to use it as your receiver. This will allow you to connect speakers directly to the AC-CX100-RAMP and distribute amplified audio.​

• 70 Meter HDBaseT 4K Receiver
• 100 Meter HDBaseT 4K Receiver
• 100 Meter HDBaseT 4K Receiver and Audio Amplifier

Single Zone Perfect Package
Still not sure what to get? Don’t worry, this package will ensure you will be set up for an excellent, easy to use conference room or classroom.

• (X1)AC-CXWP-USBC-T
• (X1) AC-CXWP-MDP-T
• (X1) AC-CX62-AUHD
• (X2) AC-CX100-RAMP

This ConferX solution allows for you to connect four amplified speakers and up to four displays in each zone, then connect almost every modern laptop, phone and tablet. We want to help you plan your next installation, give us a call today to discuss all the possibilities!

​Our December Webinar was a discussion with Jason Dustal and AVPro CTO Matt Murray. They discussed everything from 2019 accomplishments and new products to what's ahead for 2020 and beyond!

EDID Management for the AVPro Edge Matrix Switcher AC-MX88-AUHD

The AC-MX44/MX88-AUHD has 29 factory defined EDID settings as well as 3 user memories. You can also choose to read the EDID from any OUTPUT. By default, the Matrix Switch is set to a 1080p EDID for maximum plug and play capability. If you are using 4k/UHD sources you will need to define a 4k/UHD EDID on each input (unless you capture the EDID from the display).

To change EDID settings:

1. Press and hold (3 seconds) the button for the INPUT that you would like to change
2. The UP and DOWN buttons will illuminate. Use these to toggle between the different EDID options. These will be shown on the switch’s LCD display.
3. Once you find the EDID that you need, press the INPUT button of the source that you would like to apply the EDID to

*NOTE - You may also copy the EDID from any OUTPUT and apply it to any INPUT by selecting “Copy EDID from Output x”. This will copy the EDID from the attached display, store it in “USER EDID 1”, and apply it to the INPUT that you have selected.

These are the pre-defined EDID settings that you can toggle through:
0:  1080P_2CH(PCM)
1:  1080P_6CH
2:  1080P_8CH
3:  1080P_3D_2CH(PCM)             
4:  1080P_3D_6CH             
5:  1080P_3D_8CH             
6:  4K30Hz_3D_2CH(PCM)           
7:  4K30HZ_3D_6CH           
8:  4K30HZ_3D_8CH            
9:  4K60Hz(Y420)_3D_2CH(PCM)   
10:  4K60Hz(Y420)_3D_6CH
11:  4K60Hz(Y420)_3D_8CH     
12:  4K60HZ_3D_2CH          
13:  4K60HZ_3D_6CH         
14:  4K60HZ_3D_8CH           
15:  1080P_2CH(PCM)_HDR      
16:  1080P_6CH_HDR
17:  1080P_8CH_HDR           
18:  1080P_3D_2CH(PCM)_HDR
19:  1080P_3D_6CH_HDR     
20:  1080P_3D_8CH_HDR        
21:  4K30Hz_3D_2CH(PCM)_HDR
22:  4K30Hz_3D_6CH_HDR      
23:  4K30Hz_3D_8CH_HDR       
24:  4K60Hz(Y420)_3D_2CH(PCM)_HDR
25:  4K60Hz(Y420)_3D_6CH_HDR
26:  4K60Hz(Y420)_3D_8CH_HDR
27:  4K60Hz_3D_2CH(PCM)_HDR      
28:  4K60Hz_3D_6CH_HDR       
29:  4K60Hz_3D_8CH_HDR       
30:  USER_EDID_ 1
31:  USER_EDID_2
32:  USER_EDID_3


If you still need help, no problem, just give us a call and we can help.

Mira Connect from AVEO Systems Joins Partners with AVPro to Bring More Control Options to Integrators. ​

Mira Connect, the easy-to-configure and easy-to-use AV control system, now supports AVPro Edge video switchers. Mira Connect makes it easy for users to select video inputs and change sources to one or more displays or other devices, as well as control other conferencing equipment in the room, including Zoom Rooms video conferencing equipment, DSP audio systems, displays, and more.

With Mira Connect’s remote management capability, you’ll be able to control your AVPro Edge video switcher and the rest of the equipment in your room from your browser or mobile device.

To use outputs from an AVPro video switcher, add a display and enable an input on the display (HDMI 1 on an LG display, in this example).
Select ‘Use Sources Connected to Other Equipment…’. Select the AVPro Edge video switcher and then choose the desired output (Out 1 in this example) from the AVPro Edge video switcher that is connected to the display’s input.

Once the selections are made within Mira Portal, the display menus are immediately created on the associated Mira Connect panel. Users can readily and easily select which video input on the AVPro Edge video switcher to view on their display.
Below is an example of the Mira Connect user interface using two displays, each one using a different output from the AVPro Edge video switcher.

For more detailed instructions on controlling your AVPro video switcher with Mira Connect, see Aveo Systems’ AVPro Edge integration guide.

For information about Mira Connect, see the website and resource page. Mira Connect training videos show how to add different types of equipment, configure advanced settings, and customize the branding with a background image, colors, and logo.

This originally was written for the AveoSystems.com webpage: 
https://aveosystems.com/mira-connect-supports-avpro-edge-video-switchers/

HDBaseT: The Worldwide One-cable Standard

HDBaseT is the global standard for the transmission of ultra-high-definition video & audio, Ethernet, controls, USB and up to 100W of power over a single, long-distance, cable. For audiovisual, consumer electronics, and even industrial PCs, this can be a simple category cable (Cat6 or above), for up to 100m/328ft. 

Since its introduction in 2010, HDBaseT has revolutionized the video distribution sector.  It brings a rich feature set, increased reach, and better performance than existing solutions.  The cornerstone of the technology is 5Play, the converged and simultaneous delivery of uncompressed ultra-high-definition digital video and audio, Ethernet, USB, control signals and power over a single cable.

AVPro Edge works alongside HDBaseT incorporating this technology into our HDMI Extenders, HDMI Matrix Switchers, and HDMI Distribution Amplifiers. We work together in pushing technology to the next level, and give audio video integrators unique solutions for audio video distribution.

Extenders:
https://www.avproedge.com/extenderfamily.html

Classroom/Conference Solutions:
https://www.avproedge.com/conferx.html

Distribution Amplifier:
https://www.avproedge.com/ac-da210-hdbt.html

Matrix Switchers:
https://www.avproedge.com/cloud9.html
https://www.avproedge.com/ac-mx44-auhd-hdbt.html
https://www.avproedge.com/ac-mx88-hdbt-auhd-plus.html
https://www.avproedge.com/ac-mx88-auhd-hdbt-avdm.html
https://www.avproedge.com/ac-mx1616-auhd-hdbt.html
https://www.avproedge.com/ac-mx1616-auhd-hdbt-avdm.html

You can find more about HDBaseT through their website and social media:
https://hdbaset.org/
https://www.facebook.com/HDBaseTAlliance
https://twitter.com/HDBaseT
https://www.youtube.com/user/HDBaseTAlliance

A relatively unknown tool on the AVPro Edge website is the “Index”. The index has a link to every single item you would you would need when working with AVPro Edge products. You can get to the Index by going to www.avproedge.com, clicking on the RESOURCES tab at the top, and then selecting INDEX.

​The AC-CX100-RAMP is a unique tool that allows an integrator to deliver a professional audio solution in a low cost, easy to manage solution. This Universal Amplifier from ConferX is an HDBaseT receiver and Audio Amplifier in one. It’s able to run as a single-room solution or work alongside a multi-zone setup.

We are going to cover just a few of the ways you can utilize ConferX’s Universal Amplifier below.

​In this application, the presenter can connect their laptop to a ConferX wall plate. This will distribute the audio and video from the laptop into the Universal Amplifier and on to the display or projector. The audio is routed to the in-wall speakers in the room, plus you can utilize the additional audio inputs for an intercom or music system. The microphone input is used to mic the presenter if necessary. With auto-ducking technology, when the microphone input picks up sound it will automatically override other audio inputs so you can hear the presenter loud and clear.

​With the Universal Amplifier, you can put together a full 18Gbps home theater system with amplified audio, 4K audio, and even ARC & eARC (audio return channel) amplified to the connected speakers. This means you can switch between any of the connected sources and the native smart TV apps, and still get sound routed and amplified through the AC-CX100-RAMP and into your speakers.

​The Universal Amplifier, when paired with an AVPro Edge splitter and HDBaseT transmitter, gives you a professional installation perfect for a condo or apartment. The satellite or cable box can be tucked away in a closet; then, the video can be routed through a 4K splitter into a local bedroom/patio/kitchen display. Output two on the splitter will go into an HDBaseT transmitter, sending the signal up to 100 meters via category cable. Send this signal into the main TV room, where you can have speakers being amplified from the AC-CX100-RAMP. Its ARC and eARC functionality allows you to amplify audio from the satellite/cable box or the native streaming apps in the display.

​Because the Universal Amplifier has an HDBaseT input, you can pair it alongside AVPro Edge’s HDBaseT Matrix Switchers. This allows you to deliver amplified audio in each zone and provides the ability to plug-in an audio or video source locally using the in-ceiling/wall speakers you professionally installed.

In the diagram below, you can see how each zone is connected to each source at the bottom, but they also have their own local source that can get amplified audio using ARC or eARC. This allows end-users to plug-in video devices like gaming consoles or computers, or even audio-only sources like a smartphone for Spotify.

​The Universal Amplifier is entirely controllable through buttons on the front or a full web GUI system. This allows you too easily set it up to work perfectly for your next installation. More importantly, it has drivers to work alongside Control 4, Crestron, and other major control systems.

​In our November Webinar we took a look at 8k and what it means for installers. More than just a change in resolution, 8k comes with an all-new HDMI standard and a different way the signals flow throughout the HDMI pipe. We covered what makes 8k relevant and what to expect from this next step in technology. Check out how you can stay ahead of the curve -- and the competition.

Calling all Control4 installers using AVPro Edge matrix switchers. Here we are going to breakdown how to go about setting up your system so you never have any audio routing problems. 

There is a specific way to set the audio bindings inside the Control4 Composer Software and when done correctly, the audio will route exactly as it needs to.​

Step 1. Make Connections
Make all of your physical connections. Take extra care ensuring each connection is going from the matrix switchers extracted audio ports directly to the Control4 audio matrix. The way the physical connections are set will be completely different than how we set it up in the Composer software. 

Step 2. Adjust "Audio Switching" Inside Composer Pro
Open up your Control4 Composer Pro software, navigate to the "A/V Switch" and click the properties tab. In this section you will find the "Audio Switching" section. Select "Bind to Input", this will make sure the audio outputs are tied to the sources being inputted. 

Step 3. Set Audio from Source to Audio Matrix
To ensure your audio will route correctly, inside composer we need to set the audio for each source to be directed to the audio matix. So click on your source, and set the "Output Main" for Audio to the Audio Matrix. You may have the urge to choose audio outputs from our switch, but do not do this, it will cause your audio to be routed incorrectly. 

NOTE! Your source’s driver in Composer Pro will have extra audio ports, even if they don’t physically have them. If for some reason they do not show up in the software, you can place an extractor piece in line with the source (even though it really isn’t there physically) and make the connections accordingly in the software.

Now you know how to correctly install an AVPro Edge matrix switcher along side Control4 and an audio matrix. Keep checking out our blog and youtube channel for new tips and tricks every month!