14 DAY TRIAL // Looks like the AMD-Based adapters from MEN Micro aren't the only video wall controllers that enterprises can take a look at today, as Matrox also has something to offer.
Once, Matrox graphics cards were highly regarded, but we can only wonder what could have been if Matrox managed to excel in consumer and professional graphics instead of being reduced to a minor supplier of niche products.
Before we go on to talk about the Mura MPX Series, we'll have to point out that the previously mentioned AMD-based G214 is more than a means to show spreadsheets on video walls.
In other words, where the G214 is used for professional A/V, radar, video imaging and other industrial applications, Matrox' Mura MPX are intended for classrooms, auditoriums, conference rooms, control rooms, etc.
That said, the products are fanless video wall controllers compatible with the PCI Express x16 Gen 2 interface.
There are three of them: Mura MPX-4/0 (four outputs, zero inputs), Mura MPX-4/2 (four outputs, two inputs), Mura MPX-4/4 (four outputs, four inputs).
"With these fanless models, Mura further distinguishes itself as the market’s video wall controller board standard,” said Helgi Sigurdsson, product manager, Matrox Graphics Inc.
“Even greater product reliability complements the high degrees of performance, image quality, and scalability associated with Mura MPX Series.”
The newcomers support HD image quality and, due to the lack of moving parts, are quiet too.
One board can run a small video wall on its own, but multiple boards in a single system can easily scale, according to how much need and space is available.
Furthermore, Matrox tossed in support for HDCP capture and output, as well as three-year warranties. Finally, all the boards boast single-slot designs.
Sales should begin this very month (April 2012), for yet unspecified prices. Fan-using versions will be made available too, just in case.