This article was originally published at www.display-central.com
Barco, a global leader in image processing technology, introduces its groundbreaking E2 image processor – featuring native 4K inputs and outputs and supporting 4K content at professional frame rates (up to 60p 4:4:4). Raising the bar for live screen management, this brand-new presentation system provides superior image quality, exceptional input and output density, great expandability, and durability. A truly versatile system, it offers eight mixable PGM outputs and four scaled Aux outputs for full show control with a single box. The E2 will be showcased from 18 – 20 June at the Barco booth at InfoComm in Las Vegas.
“We are proud to be breaking ground in superior image processing technology with the launch of our revolutionary E2 image processor,” says Bill Morris, Vice President Venues & Hospitality at Barco. “Supporting native 4K input and output, it is the first and only screen management system on the market that can manage a 4K projector blend with refresh rates up to 60 Hz. As the E2 excels in versatility, 90% of the world’s shows and events can now be managed with a single box. What’s more, if rental companies add additional chassis, they can cover 100%.”
Native 4K input and output
With native 4K input and output, the E2 provides impressive pixel processing power. Whether native or scaled inputs, two connectors or four, this HDCP-compliant system manages it all. With 28 inputs and 14 outputs (eight PGM, two Multi-viewer and four scaled Aux outputs), the E2 system offers full show control in one box, including eight independent PIP mixers and a dedicated Multiviewer. Moreover, it is the only system on the market that can easily expand beyond these eight outputs without the need for additional external processing and routing.
Extreme expandability
The versatile E2 is not only built to expand outputs but its inputs and layers can also be extended – the system is even capable of managing a blend of up to 32 4K projectors. With a linkable chassis, the E2 can expand its capabilities without requiring external routers to distribute the signals.
Simple servicing and upgrading
Thanks to its modular design, users can simply add a new input or output card to support future signal interfaces, making it a long-term solution. This modularity also offers great serviceability, as users can easily swap a specific input or output card in the case of damage or failures, without needing to ship or replace the entire box.
Easy control
The E2 comes with a cross-platform user interface that provides touchscreen ergonomics and ease-of-use. As the presets are stored on the chassis – fully independent of the GUI – the E2 enables easy control via third-party systems. Multiple users can control the system simultaneously, and the API allows third-party developers to create custom control programs and interfaces.
Designed for life on the road
Designed for the live event industry, the rugged E2 features a steel chassis that’s able to withstand continuous shipping and the other challenging conditions of life on the road. What’s more, it offers the most extensive show control in a compact form factor of only four rack units, which makes it easy to handle and ship. And thanks to its modular cards and dual redundant Power Supply Unit (PSU) for greater reliability, the E2 is easy to service in the field.