A/V Distribution Research
Using an HDMI matrix switch
An HDMI matrix switch will take video from 4 or 8 sources and distribute these sources using 4 or 8 HDMI video outputs. Any source can be routed to any output so that each TV can watch a different source simultaneously. To get started install all equipment in one central closet. Plug in all sources to the HDMI matrix switcher via HDMI connections. To send video to a room that just has a TV, run and HDMI cable from the HDMI matrix switch to the TV location or use an HDMI BalUn. A slightly different approach is needed for a room that has surround sound, such as a family room or home theater. A room with surround sound uses a surround sound receiver to switch video, decode audio and amplify the speakers. For this application, we need to get the HDMI from the HDMI matrix switch to the receiver, and then from the receiver to the TV. This will work if the receiver is in the same equipment closet as the HDMI matrix switch, or if it is in the room with surround sound. You have now distributed audio and video throughout your home.
If speakers are installed throughout the house and you would like audio from your sources to play through them instead of or in addition to your TV speakers, the following adjustment can be made. In addition to the HDMI matrix, an analog audio matrix or multi-room audio system needs to added into the system. Now analog audio should be connected between each source connected to the HDMI matrix and the analog audio matrix or multi-room audio system. Once this is done and the proper audio delays are set, you will have audio in each room that plays through the TV speakers or the stereo speakers.
The last component of this system is control. The easiest way to control this type of system is with a full control system from a home automation or universal remote manufacturer. The control system needs to have IR routing and be capable of radio frequency coverage that extends throughout the house so that each remote is able to communicate with the controller in the equipment closet. After proper programming, the remote will be able to select between and control any of the sources.
8x8 HDMI matrix switch connection diagram
Using IP HDMI Distribution
An IP HDMI system can take multiple systems and distribute them to multiple locations over a computer ethernet network. These systems work well for very large HDMI distribution systems, but not for most home systems at its current level of development. The reason we are not implementing HDMI over IP is the lack of surround sound transmission, amount of video compression and cost.
