News & Press

IHSE’s Draco vario KVM/SDI converters advance the capabilities of SDI-to-computer video by automatically detecting the input video format and instantly changing between SDI broadcast formats to high-definition DVI, HDMI or DisplayPort computer video formats. Traditionally KVM and broadcast systems have been considered isolated architectures, but now with IHSE’s new 486 Series, these different architectures can be shared and configured under a single matrix system. The Draco vario KVM/SDI extenders are used in TV studio, postproduction, digital cinema or audio-visual applications in which users need to show digital video from an HDMI source on a professional SDI monitor, or input an SDI source for preview and monitoring purposes through a KVM switch connected to a computer display.

KVM has become much more important for broadcast-related system design because of the increased adoption of digital video servers and computers throughout the broadcast ecosystem. As system designers continue to integrate server-based architectures for editing and playback options, they must configure systems using traditional human interface devices, such as a keyboard and mouse from each workstation. However, KVM is usually considered part of the backroom network services, so many of the latest features of a professional KVM system are missed during the original design phase.

A key benefit of the Draco vario KVM/SDI extender is its ability to connect directly to a KVM matrix switch. Previously, creating an SDI-to-HDMI conversion required a secondary converter box connected to the KVM extender. In this scenario, each display or source connection required additional cabling, power and a converter unit, thus doubling the unit cost and maintenance concerns. With the Draco vario KVM/SDI, the conversion to and from the extenders happens inside the same module, thereby reducing power consumption and cabling and eliminating the need for extra power outlets or module placement.

Video scaling and deinterlacing is included in the SDI extender, enabling conversion as required between 720p50/60 or 1080i50/60 SDI video streams and digital formats including 1080p, 1600 x 900 and 1920 x 1200. This capability ensures that the appropriate video resolution is available to suit the connected monitor. SFP modules are available to suit dual-input and dual-output configurations. In addition, the extender supports a loopback option, enabling an SDI signal to be passed on to additional SDI devices while being input into the extender for KVM distribution.

There are two models available: the L486 model that converts SDI input signals to IHSE’s flex-port technology for integration to a KVM matrix switch, and the R486 model that converts flex-port technology to SDI for connecting broadcast-style monitors. Each model offers optional redundant flex-port connections that can be used for critical-path applications where a backup system is desired or where a source needs to be shared between two separate switch systems. This capability enables an uninterrupted connection during maintenance, a backup system in fully redundant or missional-critical environments, or the ability to share CPU sources between multiple KVM systems.

Both the L486 and R486 models support optical fiber connections between the extenders and KVM matrix, and can extend video, keyboard and mouse up to distances of 10 kilometers on each side of the matrix. Often it is necessary to run a second cable to a different matrix in case the main input is lost. With an optional extender that adds dual-port links for redundancy, these converters can automatically switch over to the second input­­––a great option for operations that cannot afford to lose a signal or go off air.