American Dynamics Bi-Level Matrix Bay

The American Dynamics Matrix AM2020 Bi-Level Bay for the MegaPower 3200 Switcher/Controller System efficiently links multiple audio/video inputs to multiple outputs. Thus, video inputs from many cameras can be simultaneously transmitted to numerous video output devices such as VCRs, DVRs, and monitors. The Matrix Bi-Level Switcher Bay can accommodate up to 16 video input modules (VIM), each VIM supporting up to 16 video inputs. With each video output module (VOM) supporting 4 video output devices, the switcher bay accommodates 16 VOMs. The Matrix Switcher Bay can support multiple camera groups, each group having 256 video inputs. The camera group which is at the top of the hierarchy is recognized by the bay in which the VOM exists, while the other camera groups are accessed from other bays through VOM cords.

The VIM circuit board has the facility to set the video input and output range through factory-set jumpers. The video inputs are recognized with a camera logo. When a video signal is to be sent to a VOM in another bay, the signal needs to be amplified. This amplification task is carried out by the data buffer module that is inserted into the slot next to the power supply. The data buffer module also performs the filtering task of lowering the total number of data line switching packets, thereby increasing switching speed.

The VOM circuit board also has jumpers to recognize video input and output ranges. The VOM may even double as a secondary switch to decide which of the 4 video outputs links to the input from the VIM of a particular camera group.

The Matrix Bi-Level Bay minimizes loss of synchronization between bays which could result in a vertical roll or 'black bar' between video switches. This inter-bay synchronization is carried out using vertical phase adjustment in 3 ways - a line-locked AC line, a generator-locked external vertical drive, and a composite video.

The front panel has an LED that lights up if video transmission has been broken or if there is an issue with sync of the video input signal. This warning light remains on till the video input is rectified and sync is achieved.

This Bi-Level Bay connects to a 120VAC power source with an integrated 3-wire cable. The power supply front panel has a Set up/Normal Switch, Sync Loss LED, Sync Reference Selection Switch, Sync Phase Adjustment, and the Power On/Off switch. Fitting into a standard 19-inch rack, this bay can be installed with other bays too, provided there is adequate ventilation between bays. Other than the power supply, each module that can be plugged in has a BNC panel which can be connected to the back of the bay.

The Matrix Bi-Level Bay has been certified as a Class A digital device by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission). This compliance implies that the device has been tested for ensuring that the radio waves emitted do not cause undue interference with the other equipment in the vicinity. This makes the device safe for use in industrial and commercial environments.