Glossary

Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) — A standardized compression and encoding scheme for lossy (low quality) digital audio. Higher bit rates provide higher quality. Part of the MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 specifications. The SMD 101 supports AAC-LC (MPEG-2 part 7, MPEG-4 part 3, sub-part 4 and part 14, MP4 audio).

Advanced Video Coding (AVC) — Video compression format, H.264/MPEG-4 part 10. See the H.264 (MPEG-4 AVC) definition.

Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) — A protocol for assigning an IP address to a device based on the device MAC (Media Access Control) address or physical machine address, that maintains a table showing the correlation between the two.

B-frames— Bi-predictive frames (B-frames) reference video frames before and after the current frame. They offer significantly better compression than I or P frames, but are not available in Baseline profile.

Bandwidth — A measure of available (or used) data communication resources. The total range of frequencies or bit rate required to pass a specific signal without significant distortion or loss of data. The maximum bit rate at a specified error rate, expressed in bits per second (bps). The device bandwidth should be wider than the highest possible bandwidth of the signals it could be required to process.

Bit rate — The number of bits that are conveyed or processed per unit of time. Bit rate is quantified using the bits per second (bit / s) unit, often in conjunction with an SI prefix such as kilo- (kbit / s or kbps), mega- (Mbit / s or Mbps), or giga- (Gbit / s or Gbps).

Codec — A hardware device or software program used to encode or decode a digital data stream or signal. Loosely, a combination of coder-decoder or compressor-decompressor.

Compression — Reducing the amount of data required to represent a picture (or a stream of pictures) and sound before sending or storing it.

Constant Bit Rate (CBR) — This scheme adjusts the output bit rate so that it stays very close to the specified target bit rate.

Constrained Variable Bit Rate (CVBR) — This scheme is similar to Variable Bit Rate (VBR), but sets a maximum allowed bit rate that the encoder cannot exceed.

Data bits — The number of bits used to represent one character of data. Data bits can be 7, 8, or 16, but most serial devices use 8 bits for ASCII characters.

DDC — Display Data Channel (DDC) is a bi-directional communications standard developed by VESA ( Video Electronics Standards Association) that defines a universal data transmission standard for the connectivity between display devices and computers.

Decoder — A hardware device or software program used to decompress (decode) or change a signal from one format to another or convert a digital signal into analog. The SMD 101 is a decoder that converts compatible digital AV streams into a video and audio HDMI signal or to HDMI AV plus analog audio.

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) — A network protocol that enables a server to automatically assign unique network addresses (IP address, subnet mask, gateway) to a device using a defined range of numbers configured for the network.

Domain Name System (DNS) — A database system that translates domain names (such as www.extron.com) into IP addresses.

Dynamic IP address — An IP address that is automatically assigned to a client device in a TCP/IP network, typically by a DHCP server. Network devices that serve multiple user, such as servers and printers, are usually assigned a static (unchanging) IP address.

SMD 101 • Reference Information

SMD 101 specifications

Extron Electronics has long been a prominent name in the realm of audio-visual solutions, and the SMD 101 is a prime example of its innovation in display management technology. The SMD 101 is a compact and versatile AV signal processor and distribution device designed to optimize the performance of modern AV systems.

One of the standout features of the SMD 101 is its ability to handle multiple video resolutions and formats, making it compatible with a wide range of sources and displays. This flexibility ensures that users can connect various components seamlessly, irrespective of their video standards. The SMD 101 supports HDMI signals, including embedded audio, while also offering the capability to manage audio signals separately, providing a comprehensive solution for users who demand high-quality sound alongside their visual content.

Another significant characteristic of the SMD 101 is its powerful scaling technology. With advanced scaling algorithms, it ensures that all video signals are converted to optimal resolutions without sacrificing image quality. This feature is particularly beneficial in environments where content from different sources is displayed simultaneously, maintaining consistent clarity and detail across diverse display types.

Moreover, the SMD 101 integrates Extron's advanced EDID management to streamline the communication between source devices and displays. This technology helps to minimize configuration issues and ensures that the best possible video output is achieved. The device also includes sophisticated audio features, such as audio de-embedding and mixing, enabling users to tailor the audio output to fit their specific requirements.

In terms of connectivity, the SMD 101 provides multiple input and output options, allowing for extensive system integration. The device interfaces easily with various control systems, giving users the ability to automate and manage their AV environments efficiently. It also supports Extron's control system protocols, enhancing its adaptability within existing setups.

Built to last, the SMD 101 features a robust design that ensures reliability in demanding environments. Its compact form factor allows for easy installation in racks, under tables, or in other tight spaces.

Overall, the Extron SMD 101 stands out as a comprehensive solution for AV signal processing and distribution, combining sophisticated features with user-friendly operation. Its cutting-edge technologies make it a powerful tool for any modern AV application, from corporate settings to educational institutions.