MVDS
Video Distribution System

The Multicast Video Distribution System (MVDS) from Silex allows High Definition (HD) video and stereo audio to be distributed and synchronized across wired or wireless networks. Designed for OEMs and System Integrators, MVDS provides a highly flexible way to handle digital signage applications in almost any kind of environment.

MVDS uses digital multicast technology with a highly efficient real-time compression algorithm, allowing unparalleled high quality video and audio signals to be simultaneously transmitted to up to one thousand digital signs.  The major advantage of this technology is the flexibility to connect digital signs using industry standard Ethernet cabling and hardware, or via 802.11a wireless networking.

Because MVDS is Ethernet-based, users can take advantage of their existing network infrastructure* and inexpensive off-the-shelf networking hardware.  As a result, digital signs can be quickly and easily installed throughout a building or campus environment without the need to buy expensive analog splitters and repeaters. Ethernet technology also enables superior distance capabilities, and unlike traditional VGA to Cat 5 analog video transmitters, the picture quality does not degrade over long distances.

The new MVDS Real-Time Content Selection capability allows a user to select video/audio content from multiple sources without the need for external switching hardware .   This allows, for example, a program to be interrupted with a public service announcement.  The switching process is instantaneous, and can be user-initiated or timer-based.

The MVDS wireless capabilities allow users to easily install digital signs in locations where running cables is difficult or where the digital signs must be moved around.  This makes it ideal for handling mobile or temporary displays, and for connecting digital signs in old buildings or across public thoroughfares.For maximum OEM configuration flexibility, the MVDS transmitters and receivers are available in either compact standalone metal enclosures or as board level products.

Applications

MVDS can be used in virtually any digital signage application, including airport arrival/departure displays, trade shows, retail advertising, public announcements, entertainment, classroom instruction, courtrooms, and much more.  Its wireless capabilities allow it to address many additional applications such as mobile classrooms, emergency information displays, and kiosks.

*Because MVDS generates a large volume of multicast traffic, it should be on its own isolated network segment. 

Features and Benefits

Distribution of live video and audio through a digital network
Allows long cable lengths and ensures that the picture quality will not deteriorate along the distribution path.

Silex multicast UDP/IP transmission
Efficiently distributes and synchronizes video and audio from a single source to up to 1000 displays (wired) or 32 displays (wireless). Wired and wireless receivers
Provides the flexibility to locate digital signs almost anywhere in a building or campus environment.

Real-Time Content Selection
Allows user to select video content from multiple video sources without the need for external switching hardware.

Uses standard Ethernet network infrastructure
Allows digital signs to be connected using network cabling and equipment that is already installed in a building.

Serial port control
The MVDS receivers have an RS-232 port for the control of the connected displays.

Easy to install
The MVDS transmitter and receivers automatically configure themselves to communicate with each other over the network.

Web browser configuration
Allows control and configuration of the transmitters or receivers from anywhere on the network with no additional software required.

Flexible antenna options
Includes external antenna connectors for flexible antenna options and placement (0dB antennas are included standard with all transmitter and receiver models).

Why is ad hoc mode the default?

Because most access points cannot handle the multicast traffic bandwidth required by MVDS.  This also saves the customer money by eliminating the need to purchase a high-end access point. 

Can MVDS be used outdoors?

It can be used outdoor in USA with 5.7-5.8GHz channels. Please contact Silex for information regarding other regions. 

How far can digital signs be located from the transmitter/ video source?

Wired: Virtually unlimited, up to limits of the network configuration.
Wireless: Up to 30ft with the included nondirectional low-gain antenna and up to 500ft with the optional directional high-gain antenna.

Will the MVDS wireless capabilities work through walls? 

It depends on the wall material.  It works well with most drywall and wood walls, but concrete and metal can be a problem.

Why does MVDS use 802.11a? 

802.11a is licensed for outdoor use in the U.S., and it less prone to interference than 802.11g. 

Can MVDS be configured for 802.11g? 

Yes, but we do not recommend it because of the interference issues.

Will MVDS support 802.11n? 

We plan to support 802.11n in a future release of MVDS.

What type of compression / codec is used? 

JPEG2000 for video, 16bit stereo PCM for audio.

What type of security is supported?

64bit WEP encryption for wireless (AdHoc mode). Optional infrastructure mode can support 128bit WPA encryption. Future updates will add transport layer encryption either on wired or wireless. 

What are some of the advantages of MVDS vs. the competition?

Compared to other digital-based video distribution systems, MVDS can have more receiver stations (32 wireless and/or 1000 wired), can support slightly larger resolution (1280x768), and has much quicker startup / recovery response. Compared to analog-based systems, MVDS supports wireless capabilities and larger distances, does not require fine tuning of the digital display based on cable length, and it can use low-cost Ethernet hardware.