Key Digital HDMI distribution system for digital signage

Featuring two HDMI inputs to four-or-eight respective HDBaseT outputs, the KD-DA2x4G and KD-DA2x8G allows signage players, computers, DVD players, or specialised content from two HDMI sources to be distributed to all four-or-eight connected displays. Displays only require a single CAT5e/6 cable to each display from the distribution amplifier, and the included receiver is connected to the HDMI input of the monitor/display.

Jonathon Ferry, National Training Manger for Key Digital, said: “HDBaseT technology is the go-to for reliable HDMI content extension without utilising a network, and Key Digital leverages the power and reliability of HDBaseT to deliver it in a package designed with digital signage applications in mind on these splitter models. As opposed to signage systems that require a player or computer located at each and every display, we achieve cost-effective and uniform content distribution with exceptional distance performance using KD-DA2x4G and KD-DA2x8G.

“Key Digital makes the purchasing of this system as easy as could be by including all four or eight receivers right in the box on just one SKU, whereas our competitors have designed their products to require many additional purchases. With a user-friendly focus, these products are KD-App ready, so the facilities manager can easily switch from content A to B from their iPhone or iPad using Key Digital’s free switching app.

“Our installers love the two input ports on these distribution amplifiers which allow their customers to easily toggle from the signage, advertising, or corporate messaging to something like regional news or sports broadcast.”

Content is supported up to Ultra HD/4K resolution at 4096x2160 or 3840x2160 24/25/30/60hz at 4:4:4 (signals up to 18 Gbps bandwidth). Long range signal extension of 4K/UHD signals achieves up to 76m using CAT5e/CAT6, and 1080p content is extended up to 100m.

Key Digital uniquely offers a front-end switching selection on the KD-DA2x4G and KD-DA2x8G, which easily enables the distribution of identical content to all four-or-eight respective screens. All monitors connect via the included receive units. The receivers are powered by the KD-DA2x4G and KD-DA2x8G, and that power is carried over the HDBaseT run, a popular feature for AV integrators that sometimes do not have power outlets available behind displays.

Emphasised within the KD-DA2x4G and KD-DA2x8G are several ingenious tools sure to please any integrator and enhance the end-user experience. Auto switching automatically switches to or from a newly detected or disconnected source when enabled. Audio de-embedding enables the audio of the video content to also be fed into connected audio systems. Control pass-through enables IR or RS-232 signals from a professional control system to control connected monitors or be collected from the receiver unit and sent to the main equipment rack location for control of a selected source.

These products join a suite of Key Digital IP enabled products that are now app ready. Using the KD-App downloadable from the App Store, installers and users have a free and simple way to switch inputs of the video distribution system using any iOS device. The KD-DA2x4G and KD-DA2x8G also support the Key Digital Management Pro Software (KDMS Pro), is Compass Control Pro ready, and is fully controllable by all IR, RS-232, and TCP/IP supported control systems via open API.

The KD-DA2x4G and KD-DA2x8G feature EDID Control with a built-in internal library of 15 EDID handshakes in addition to the ability to copy the EDID data from the display connected to output/display one. The Full Buffer System manages TMDS re-clocking / signal re-generation, HDCP source & display authentication, Hot Plug Management and EDID Control handshake. Supported lossless compressed digital audio formats include Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby Atmos.