DM NVX® technology transports ultra high‑definition 4K60 4:4:4 video over standard Gigabit Ethernet with no perceptible latency or loss of quality. Using standard network switches and CAT5e UTP wiring, a DM NVX system delivers a high‑performance virtual matrix routing solution that is economically advantageous and infinitely scalable for any enterprise or campus‑wide 4K content distribution application. Professional onboard scaling, High Dynamic Range support (HDR10), and HDCP 2.2 compliance ensure the ultimate in picture quality and compatibility for all of today’s varied media sources.1, 2
The DM‑NVX‑351C is an AV over IP encoder/decoder card that occupies one slot of a DMF‑CI‑8 card chassis. The card is designed to function as either a transmitter or receiver in a high‑density rack‑mount installation. Capable of handling a network AV installation of any size, the DM‑NVX‑351C includes features such as secure web‑based control and management, auto‑switching HDMI® inputs, a scaling HDMI output, video wall processing, an analog audio input or output, surround sound to stereo downmixing, native AES67 transmit and receive capability, USB 2.0 and KVM integration, and support for copper and fiber Ethernet connectivity.2,3
Real‑Time 4K60 Video Distribution
Engineered for demanding conference room and classroom applications, DM NVX technology ensures real‑time, full‑motion 4K60 video performance for the presentation of multimedia, videoconferencing, and live camera images. Interactive functions such as gameplay and the use of a mouse are fluid and natural.
A DM NVX system is engineered for stability and reliability. Line‑synchronized outputs ensure perfect synchronization of content across multiple displays for applications such as digital signage and video walls. Variable Multicast TTL (Time To Live) enables traversing multiple network routers for optimal flexibility.
Pixel Perfect Processing Technology
A DM NVX system incorporates Pixel Perfect Processing technology, which provides flawless video transport in all applications. Depending on the operating mode, the DM‑NVX‑351C can encode or decode a video signal to achieve imperceptible end-to-end latency of less than 1 frame. The image quality of the source is maintained across a 1-Gigabit network at any resolution up to 4K60 4:4:4.
Enterprise‑Grade Security
Using advanced security features and protocols such as 802.1X authentication, Active Directory® credential management, AES-128 content encryption, PKI authentication, TLS, SSH, and HTTPS, a DM NVX system delivers a true enterprise‑grade network AV solution engineered to fulfill demanding IT policies.
Encoder or Decoder Functionality
The DM‑NVX‑351C is configurable to operate as either a network AV encoder or decoder:
- As an encoder, the DM‑NVX‑351C allows the HDMI signal of the output of a switcher, computer, AirMedia® gateway, or other media source to be transmitted over the network to one or many decoders.1
- As a decoder, the DM‑NVX‑351C receives the signal from a DM NVX encoder and feeds it to the input of a switcher or display device via the HDMI output. The decoder can quickly and easily switch between multiple encoders on the network alongside locally connected HDMI sources.1
The DM‑NVX‑351C provides a versatile, cost‑effective solution for applications that require encoder and decoder operating modes in a single card. The operating mode can be reconfigured dynamically in less than 1 minute via a control system or web browser or via the DMF‑CI‑8 front panel.
Auto-Switching HDMI® Inputs
The DM‑NVX‑351C includes two HDMI inputs. Switching between the two inputs can be performed automatically using auto‑switching mode, programmatically via a control system, manually via the DMF‑CI‑8 front panel, or through a computer using a web browser.1
HDMI Output with 4K60 4:4:4 Scaler
When the DM‑NVX‑351C is configured as a decoder, the HDMI output feeds the decoded signal to the HDMI input of a local display device, switcher, or other equipment. The built‑in scaler ensures an optimal image, scaling the encoded source resolution up or down to match the native resolution of the display device. When the DM‑NVX‑351C is configured as an encoder, the HDMI output can be used to feed a local display, confidence monitor, or audio system.1, 4
Video Wall Processing
A video wall composed of up to 64 individual displays can be configured using multiple DM NVX endpoints. Each endpoint provides fully adjustable zoom capability and bezel compensation to accommodate a range of video wall configurations and display types. One DM NVX endpoint is required per display, supporting configurations of up to eight wide by eight high.
Dynamic Text Overlay
The DM-NVX-351C enables the display of dynamic text, providing a means to label the video source or to display special instructions, schedules, announcements, alerts, and other messaging.
Image Preview
Image preview provides still images (thumbnails) that show the current video being received by an input of a DM NVX encoder or displayed by an output of a DM NVX decoder. Still images are shown at 1 frame per second. Image preview supports the maximum resolution of the source and scales the image while maintaining the aspect ratio. Images can be previewed in the DM NVX web interface and accessed remotely using a web browser. The images can also be previewed on a Crestron touch screen or third-party interface.
Background Image for On-Screen Display
When the DM-NVX-351C is configured as a decoder, an image can be uploaded to the device for use as a background image on a display whenever active video content is not being displayed. Supported image file types are .jpeg, .jpg, and .png. The supported maximum resolution of an image is 3840x2160 pixels. Up to 20 image files can be uploaded for a total storage capacity of up to 100 MB.
Test Pattern Generator
When the DM-NVX-351C is configured as an encoder, the built-in test pattern generator can be used during setup to ensure that video streaming is functional. The test pattern generator can also be used as a tool for the adjustment, calibration, and alignment of displays, projectors, and video walls. The DM NVX encoder can send the test pattern to any routed DM NVX decoder.
Fixed, Adaptive, or Variable Bit Rate
In DM NVX encoder mode, the bit rate of a stream can be set to fixed, adaptive, or variable:
- A fixed bit rate, also referred to as Constant Bit Rate (CBR), is user specified and can be set to a value ranging from 200 Mbps to 950 Mbps.5
- Adaptive bit rate (ABR) enables the encoder to automatically set a fixed bit rate based on the input resolution of the stream. For example, the adaptive bit rate for a common resolution such as 1920x1080p@60Hz (1080p60) would automatically be set to 400 Mbps. Adaptive bit rate makes better use of the available bandwidth than a user-specified fixed bit rate.
- Variable bit rate (VBR) enables the encoder to automatically vary the bit rate based on the content and input resolution of the stream. The bit rate can vary from less than 150 Mbps to a maximum of 750 Mbps. A variable bit rate results in the use of less bandwidth to produce the same image quality as a user-specified fixed bit rate or an adaptive bit rate.
The web interface or a control system can be used to set a fixed bit rate or to enable adaptive or variable bit rate functionality.
Analog Audio Embedding or De‑embedding
A balanced stereo analog audio port is included, which can be configured as either an input or output. As an input, the port allows a stereo audio source to be connected and combined with the video signal from either HDMI input or the incoming network video stream. As an output, the port can provide a stereo line‑level signal to feed a local sound system or analog audio switcher. The output volume is adjustable via a control system or web browser.6
7.1 Surround Sound Audio with Downmixing
DM NVX technology supports the lossless transport of 7.1 surround sound audio signals, including Dolby® TrueHD, Dolby Atmos®, DTS HD®, DTS:X®, and uncompressed linear PCM. The DM‑NVX‑351C can decode the incoming multichannel surround sound signal, whether from the network or an HDMI input, and downmix that signal to stereo. The stereo downmix signal is automatically routed to the onboard analog output5, while the HDMI output can be configured to output either stereo or multichannel signals. As an encoder, the DM‑NVX‑351C distributes both stereo and multichannel signals simultaneously over the network, allowing either signal to be selected at any decoder on the network.
AES67 Audio Embedding and De-embedding
AES67 support enables the selected audio source to be transmitted as a 2-channel AES67 audio stream while another 2-channel AES67 audio stream is received from a Crestron DSP or other third-party device and combined with the video signal.
In DM NVX encoder mode, the received AES67 audio stream can be output via the local HDMI output, primary AV stream, and analog audio output. In DM NVX decoder mode, the received AES67 audio stream can be combined with the video and then output via the HDMI output and analog audio output.
NOTE: An AES67 audio stream that is received by a DM NVX endpoint cannot be transmitted from that endpoint.
Breakaway Audio
A DM NVX decoder can select and combine separate video and audio signals from two different inputs—even two different encoders.7
Copper and Fiber Ethernet Connectivity
The DM‑NVX‑351C includes two RJ-45 1000BASE-T LAN ports (Ethernet ports 1 and 2) and one SFP port (Ethernet port 3). The SFP port enables connection to a fiber-optic network with the use of the appropriate Crestron SFP‑1G Series transceiver module (sold separately). A selection of modules is offered to accommodate various multimode and single-mode fiber types.3
Ethernet port 1, 2, or 3 can be used to transport video over a Gigabit Ethernet network. Ports 1 and 2 can also be used to provide network connections for an AirMedia gateway, display device, or other local device. In addition, the ports can be used to daisy-chain multiple endpoints feeding a single-source video wall or individual displays that show the same video image.2
A DM NVX system can be deployed on an existing corporate or campus network or on a dedicated network. For information about network requirements and guidelines, refer to the DM NVX AV-over-IP System Design Guide, Doc. 7977.
Network Port Selection
Network port selection enables network traffic to be managed and segregated based on traffic type. Internal VLANs are used to route different traffic types to specific external Ethernet ports, which can be assigned to the various traffic types. AES67 audio can be separated from the primary video and control network resulting in a dedicated audio network.
Automatic Point-to-Point Connectivity
Point-to-point connectivity enables a DM NVX 4K60 4:4:4 encoder to be connected directly to a DM NVX 4K60 4:4:4 decoder to stream video, audio, and USB signals. Rather than being connected to a Gigabit Ethernet network, a 1000BASE-T Ethernet port of an encoder is connected directly to a 1000BASE-T port of a decoder. By default, point-to-point mode is enabled and can be disabled if desired.
When point-to-point mode is enabled and a direct connection between an encoder and decoder is automatically detected, no additional configuration is required for the encoder or decoder to operate in point-to-point mode; however, the operating mode of a DM-NVX-351C card must be configured correctly. If the card is to function as an encoder, the operating mode of the card must be configured as an encoder. If the card is to function as a decoder, the operating mode must be configured as a decoder. In addition, a control system is required for CEC (CEC Consumer Control).
USB 2.0 and KVM Integration
DM NVX technology supports the extension of USB signals, which can be switched and routed alongside the AV signal or separately via a control system. USB 2.0 HOST and DEVICE ports are provided on the DM‑NVX‑351C, allowing a USB mouse, keyboard, or other peripheral device to be connected to a remote endpoint and routed to a computer or other host at the local endpoint. In addition to KVM switch functionality, various types of USB peripherals are supported, including whiteboards, touch screens, game controllers, cameras, mobile devices, headsets, and flash drives.8
USB 2.0 data transport can be configured for Layer 2 or Layer 3. Layer 2 supports USB signal extension in point-to-point and multipoint applications. USB signals can be routed from the HOST port of up to seven remote DM NVX endpoints to the DEVICE port of a single local DM NVX endpoint. Layer 2 also supports Crestron USB over Ethernet Extender Modules (USB-NX2-LOCAL-1G, USB-NX2-REMOTE-1G, USB‑EXT‑DM‑LOCAL or USB‑EXT‑DM‑REMOTE). The USB extenders can be used in locations that do not include DM NVX endpoints. USB signals can be routed between DM NVX endpoints and USB extenders under the management of a control system.9
USB 2.0 Layer 3 data transport supports USB signal extension in DM NVX point-to-point applications across VLANs. USB-NX2 and USB-EXT-DM devices do not support Layer 3.
CEC Device Control
The DM‑NVX‑351C provides a gateway for controlling devices via CEC over the HDMI connections. Under the management of a control system, the DM‑NVX‑351C can control display devices and other equipment via CEC, potentially eliminating the need for any dedicated serial cables or IR emitters.
CEC over the HDMI output can also enable the display device to be turned on or off automatically without the use of a control system.
Web‑Based Setup
Setup of the DM‑NVX‑351C is accomplished by using a web browser. Full control and monitoring of the card is enabled through integration with a control system or with a DM NVX Director® virtual switching appliance.
Streamlined Management Using DM NVX Director Virtual Switching Appliances
For applications that are small to moderate in size, a network of DM NVX endpoints can be configured and controlled with the use of a control system. For larger enterprise and campus‑wide signal routing applications, adding a DM NVX Director virtual switching appliance (DM-NVX-DIR-80, DM-NVX-DIR-160, or DM-NVX-DIR-ENT) enhances and streamlines the entire configuration and control process. A DM NVX Director appliance provides a central point of management and enables the creation of multiple virtual matrix switchers through one easy‑to‑use web‑based portal.
XiO Cloud® Service Support
The DM‑NVX‑351C is compatible with the XiO Cloud service, which is a platform for remotely provisioning, monitoring, and managing Crestron devices across an enterprise or an entire client base. The service enables installers and IT managers to deploy and manage thousands of devices in the amount of time it previously took to manage a single device. For more information, visit www.crestron.com/xiocloud.
High‑Density, Card‑Based Solution
The DM‑NVX‑351C is designed for installation into a DMF‑CI‑8 card chassis, providing a scalable high‑density solution for applications requiring multiple encoders and decoders in one equipment rack.
For additional design tools and reference documents, refer to the DM NVX web page at https://www.crestron.com/nvx.