Matrox Monarch EDGE 4K/Multi-HD Remote Production (REMI) Decoder

Simultaneously decode, send talkback, and record low-latency video using SDI and IP sources and destinations with the Monarch EDGE 4K/Multi-HD Remote Production (REMI) Decoder from Matrox. The Monarch EDGE decoder receives data from an IP stream or via the EDGE encoder and outputs the stream to IP or SDI to a switcher or for ISO recordings. It also features a USB output that can be used for recording to a USB drive. This functionality makes it suitable for broadcast and other professional workflows that require streaming and recording of content, such as houses of worship and universities. The 1 RU, half-rack design helps it easily fit into your broadcast truck or studio.

Enhanced Productions, Small Footprint

Easily produce multi-angle live events by extending the production studio to any remote location with a network connection. Monarch EDGE can decode up to four camera feeds from IP to HD or 3G-SDI sources. When an in-studio 4K production requires a remote feed, Monarch EDGE can accept either 4K signals over IP to output via 12G-SDI, or deliver via quad 3G-SDI for a full-4K output. All of the supported SDI resolutions will be available on the upcoming ST 2110 networked I/O ports using SFP28 connectivity. For events that require more cameras, its compact footprint ensures that two units will fit into a single 1 RU rack space.

Built for High-Quality 10-Bit H.264 Decoding

The optimized H.264 engine powering Monarch EDGE keeps data rates exceptionally low without sacrificing quality. If quality is of the highest importance, streams up to 120 Mb/s can be decoded. Four outputs support resolutions up to 1080p60, or one output at 2160p60 using the High 4:2:2 H.264 decoding profile. Multiple processes can be performed on each input and output by powerful scaling and de-interlacing engines. This enables each input stream to output at multiple resolutions and bitrates simultaneously, which is useful for remote monitoring.

Low Latency

In live environments, high signal transport latencies are detrimental to remote production (REMI) quality. Audio and video sync may be hard to maintain, and return channels to the field are often too far behind the live-action, hindering seamless staff interaction. With “glass-to-glass” latencies as low as 100ms between video input at encoder and video output at the decoder, Monarch EDGE achieves some of the lowest latencies on the market while using standard 1 Gb Ethernet networks.

Flexible Protocols

There are a variety of streaming protocols available to Monarch EDGE users for use during remote productions (REMI). On closed networks, MPEG-2 TS or RTSP streams can be selected for delivery. For cloud-based destinations, or when the network is congested, SRT may be more appropriate. SRT is a new open-source format that provides the reliability of RTMP, while reducing latency, for use on open networks. SRT streams can also be encrypted if security is a concern. The Monarch EDGE decoder supports the processing of MPEG-2 TS, RTSP, and SRT protocols.

Versatile Recording

Monarch EDGE offers the ability to record SDI inputs—at the user’s quality of choice—while simultaneously streaming using the user’s preferred transport protocol. Recordings can be saved to USB 3.0 attached storage or to local networks. Monarch EDGE makes sharing post-event recordings easier than ever with the ability to record to the popular H.264 codec with MOV and MP4 wrapper options. This Monarch EDGE feature allows for ISO recordings of SDI inputs, which can be used for post-event editing or serve as backup recordings.

Easy-to-Use Tally and Talkback

The Monarch EDGE remote production (REMI) encoder and decoder pair provides the transfer of tally signals and talkback channels to facilitate bidirectional communication between on-site camera operators and in-studio personnel. Eight tally signals can be sent from the production switcher to the decoder, which transfers these signals to the encoder for output to the cameras. Two balanced analog inputs and two balanced analog outputs are found on both the encoder and decoder for interfacing with local intercom systems.

Comprehensive Connectivity

Both the Monarch EDGE encoder and decoder devices offer flexible, future-proof video connectivity with 3G, 12G SDI, and ST 2110 over 25 Gb Ethernet network connections. Each of the Monarch EDGE encoder’s SDI inputs supports 16 channels of embedded audio. Eight of these channels can be included in each stream using MPEG-2 or SRT protocols. Delivering multi-lingual or multi-channel productions is easy with Monarch EDGE.

Robust and Practical Design

Both the Monarch EDGE encoder and decoder were built with reliability in mind. An LCD screen on the front of the appliance allows the user to quickly access its status and configuration settings. A locking power connector safeguards against connection loss during production. Redundant Ethernet (1 Gb Ethernet) ports allow users to control the device from one port while sending video from a second port. Users can opt to send the same streams from each port while taking completely separate network paths. Finally, Monarch EDGE’s compact design ensures it can be installed in a fly-pack or with a second Monarch EDGE unit in a 1 RU rack space.