Tracing the footprints of AVPro Edge’s AC-MXNET-1G-EV2 and continuing down the evolutionary path of the MXnet Platform, the AC-MXNET-1G-AVDM-EV2 draws upon an onboard proprietary audio decoder module designed to extract two-channel balanced analog audio from high bitrate, multi-channel audio codecs including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X IMAX Enhanced for integration with multi-zone stereo distribution systems. Downmixed signals are extracted and output in analog stereo via a balanced Phoenix-type terminal on the encoder chassis.
The AC-MXNET-1G-AVDM-EV2 functions otherwise as an Evolution II Encoding/Transmitting device, incorporating a newly designed AVPro Edge application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) that introduces an improved software-based video encoding/decoding engine into the IC for enhanced video processing. Refinements to the IC include native support for 4K/60fps 4:4:4 signals (RGB and YCbCr @10- and 12-bit). All MXnet first-generation encoder features are retained for use with the AC-MXNET-1G-AVDM-EV2.
As a member of the AVPro Edge family of AV over IP products, an AC-MXNET-1G-AVDM-EV2 is a gateway where a signal enters the MXnet Ecosystem, connected with category cable (AVPro Edge strongly encourages CAT-6a infrastructure for all MXnet system deployments however for MXnet 1G, Cat-5e will comfortably transport MXnet 1G data signals) or fiber optic cabling, to an MXnet switch or any compatible multicast-capable managed L3 network switch.
A connected HDMI source will have audio and video signals encoded into a multicast data format for routing to any AC-MXNET-1D-EV2 system endpoint connected to the same MXnet switch. Encoded HDMI source signals up to native 4K/60fps 4:4:4 with Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG are passed to EVO II downstream AC-MXNET-1G-DV2 decoders, with RS-232 serial pass-through, IR control or USB signals also transportable inside encoded data packets.
Encoding is executed using an optimized JPEG 2000 codec, which parses data at managed flexible rates to minimize bitrate errors (200Mbps for 1080p content, 300Mbps for 4K/30fps content, peaking at 850Mbps for 4K/60fps content). Frame-syncing Genlock is supported, with latency near zero and visually imperceptible. The AC-MXNET-1G-AVDM-EV2 runs quietly and remains cool during operation, utilizing a fan-less design featuring chip-top heatsinking to efficiently disperse heat while limiting power consumption at typically 7 watts or less for stability and device longevity.
PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING: MXNET-1G-AVDM EV2 and AC-MXNET-1G-DV2 devices may coexist alongside MXnet first-generation encoders and decoders within previously installed systems or pending system deployments; however, they are required to be used exclusively in EVO II transmitter-to-EVO II decoder(s) pairings only.
- Downmixing –
- Supports transmission of high bitrate multi-channel audio codecs through an MXnet system while allowing simultaneous extraction and division of digital and analog audio signals.
- Standard Dolby Audio & DTS-HD formats up to 7.1 may be downmixed and output as balanced analog stereo audio.
- Dolby Atmos 7.1 base channels and DTS:X IMAX Enhanced audio soundtracks may also be decoded then downmixed into analog stereo output for distribution through non-surround products.
- JPEG 2000 –
- JPEG 2000 encoding implemented by MXnet differs from MPEG and other discrete cosine transform-based codecs, as it optimizes compression efficiency for applications with limited bandwidth.
- JPEG 2000 is based on a wavelet transform algorithm, providing lossless or lossy compression and parseable code streams.
- Genlock is supported, syncing a video source by frame to Decoders comprising a video wall, for a simul-sync, tear-free appearance.
- JPEG 2000 is reliably used by Digital Cinema Initiatives for theatrical content, by television networks for HD broadcasting, and by DICOM® for critical, decision-making, medical imaging applications.
- Native 4K/60fps Support –
- First-generation MXnet Encoders and Decoders were unable to support 4K/60fps 4:4:4 RGB or YCbCr, 10- and 12-bit natively or with dynamic metadata.
- When not lossless, the advanced encoding / decoding engine resident on the new ASIC developed for EVO II Encoders and Decoders applies a limited, ultra-light compression, composing an artifact free image upon decoding,
- ...including Dolby Vision or HDR10+ content.
- Improved Preview Thumbnails -
- First generation MXnet supported static thumbnails with 960X540 pixel resolution, turning over every 10 seconds.
- EVO II supports third-party media sub-streaming through an HTTP address, at an improved pixel resolution of 1024x576.
- Data Status Window –
- A forward-facing, built-in mini OLED screen displays information critical to device set up, system troubleshooting, or standard operational status.
- Custom name an EVO II AC-MXNET-1G-AVDM-EV2 with up to twelve allotted character slots for easy identification or to match your system requirements.
- IP and MAC addresses are also displayed.
- Control Signal Routing –
- IR and RS-232 control signal routes that have been mapped with MXnet Mentor software direct commands to downstream EVO II decoders through the AC-MXNET-1G-AVDM -V2.
- Any EVO II decoder connected to an MXnet system switch may be eligible to receive routed signals.
- I-PASS and IR-EYE ports support IR signal throughput from third-party over-control systems to endpoint-related products.
- USB and KVM Support –
- A USB 2.0 Type-B female Host connection resides on every AC-MXNET-AVDM-1G-EV2.
- MXnet Mentor software enables easy routing configuration for bi-directional USB signals from a designated Host Encoder to a downstream decoder with a connected USB device.
- External Device Light Control –
- Light emission from an AC-MXNET-1G-AVDM-EV2 may be controlled via MXnet Mentor.
- Any status light, including network link LEDs and the OLED Data Window may be optionally disabled to prevent unwanted distraction, enabling discreet placement where desired.
- Device lights may also be continuously “flashed” for high visibility when troubleshooting.
- Netgear Support –
- MXnet’s engineers have worked together with Netgear to ensure their switches work with our line of encoders and decoders.
- To make installing MXnet with Netgear switches even easier, Netgear has developed an “AVPro Edge Profile.”
- Once this is loaded, your switch will work seamlessly with the AVPro Edge encoder and decoders.
