Featuring HDBaseT technology — consumer electronics connectivity technology optimised for whole-home and commercial multimedia distribution — the switchers extend HDMI sources, including full uncompressed HD video and audio, up to 330 feet at 1080p resolution over a single, cost-effective Cat 5/6/7 cable. Extension to 450 feet at 1080p is also available with updated firmware. By supporting HDBaseT technology, the switchers also provide bidirectional RS-232 and zone-specific bidirectional IR pass-through up to 60KHz and extensive Extended Display Identification Data (EDID) management, which allows installers to make any source or display function properly.

A solution for remotely located HD sources such as Blu-ray players, Sony PlayStations, set-top boxes, satellite receivers or any other HDMI device, the AT-PRO2HD88M and AT-PRO2HD1616M are true 8×8 and 16×16 high-speed HDMI matrix switchers. The units feature eight (8×8) or sixteen (16×16) inputs with the same number of independently switchable twisted pair outputs to route to Atlona’s AT-PRO2HDREC and AT-PRO21616M-RX receiver modules (sold separately).

Atlona’s receiver modules are both equipped with bidirectional IR and RS-232, and locking power connectors, and extend HDMI sources up to 450 feet at 1080p resolution that supports all 3D formats. In addition, the AT-PRO21616-RX features built-in audio de-embedding. The AT-PRO2HD88M and AT-PRO2HD1616M have the ability to equalise, amplify, and reclock the signal to ensure HDMI-accurate signal transmission through long cables without quality loss.

The matrix switchers feature stereo pass-through to allow the routing of local source audio from the matrix head-end to zone receiver units. Supporting bidirectional RS-232 and IR makes the units ideal for control and automation solutions such as Control4, RTI, and all other control systems. In addition, the matrix switchers provide support for Deep Color, HDCP, as well as full 3D support for all formats, while preserving 7.1-channel digital audio, including DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD. For portability and rack-mount installations, the AT-PRO2HD88M and AT-PRO2HD1616M are available with four convenient U rack ears attached.

“The next-generation AT-PRO2HD88M and AT-PRO2HD1616M are the most advanced and industrious matrix switchers on the market today. Bolstered with HDBaseT technology, the units greatly simplify installations, saving time and money for integrators without compromising on quality for their clients,” says Atlona vice president of product development and co-founder Michael Khain.

“Atlona is an influential player in the professional AV industry and a key supporter of HDBaseT technology,” says Micha Risling, vice president of marketing and business development for Valens Semiconductor and member of the HDBaseT Alliance board.

“The HDBaseT Alliance relies on the innovations of its member companies like Atlona to drive HDBaseT technology forward and, as a fellow member of the Alliance, we appreciate Atlona’s dedication to furthering the impact of HDBaseT technology in the marketplace.”

The AT-PRO2HD88M is available now and the AT-PRO2HD1616M will be available Oct. 15, 2011.