AVPro Edge x2 HDMI Inputs with MCS - 18Gbps 4K60 4:4:4 (2CH Audio Only)

Product Overview

The AVPro Edge AC-AXION-IN-MCS is a dual HDMI input card for the AC-AXION-X modular chassis, accepting two independent 18Gbps 4K60 4:4:4 HDMI sources and routing them into the AXION-X matrix with Mission Critical Scaling (MCS). Designed as the source-facing component of a modular AV distribution system, this input card allows integrators to bring high-bandwidth HDMI signals—from presentation systems, media servers, cameras, or AV processors—into the AXION-X chassis for flexible routing to any output destination in the matrix. The card supports 2-channel audio and is the appropriate choice for installations where 4K60 4:4:4 video fidelity is required and stereo audio is the expected audio format. As with all AXION-X cards, it occupies a single chassis slot, maximizing input density per rack unit.

Product Description

The AC-AXION-IN-MCS card provides two HDMI 2.0 input connections to the AC-AXION-X modular distribution chassis. Each input accepts signals at up to 18Gbps, supporting 4K UHD at 60Hz with full 4:4:4 chroma subsampling. The MCS function preserves continuous output signal integrity at downstream displays when a source connected to this input card undergoes a transition—such as a laptop connecting or disconnecting, or a source switcher changing input selection—preventing display blanking during those events.

The card is purpose-built for the AC-AXION-X chassis and is not compatible with other chassis platforms. Integrators building an AXION-X system should plan the ratio of input to output cards based on the number of sources and display destinations in their system design. The dual-input-per-slot format allows high input density without excessive chassis expansion, making it practical for large systems with many sources.

Key Features

• Dual HDMI 2.0 inputs per chassis slot — Two independent 18Gbps HDMI inputs in a single AC-AXION-X slot, providing high source density without consuming excessive chassis space.
• 4K60 4:4:4 at 18Gbps — Accepts full bandwidth HDMI 2.0 source signals with 4K resolution at 60Hz and 4:4:4 chroma for accurate color capture from source devices.
• Mission Critical Scaling (MCS) — Maintains stable HDMI output at downstream displays during source transitions, eliminating display blanking caused by HDCP renegotiation when sources connect or change.
• Modular chassis card format — Installs alongside output cards and other input card types in the AC-AXION-X chassis to create a custom-configured AV matrix distribution system.
• Independent per-input routing — Each HDMI input on the card is independently addressable within the AXION-X matrix and can be routed to any output destination simultaneously.
• 2-channel audio input — Accepts stereo PCM audio from source devices, appropriate for corporate presentation, digital signage, and data visualization applications.
• Compact single-slot card format — Efficient use of chassis slots allows the AXION-X system to accommodate a large number of sources within a standard rack footprint.

Typical Applications

• Corporate AV matrix input expansion — Add HDMI source inputs to an AC-AXION-X chassis for conference rooms, executive briefing centers, and boardroom AV systems requiring flexible source routing.
• Higher education AV distribution — Accept multiple HDMI sources—laptops, lecture capture systems, document cameras—into the AXION-X matrix for routing to classroom and auditorium displays.
• Control room source integration — Bring workstation outputs, video wall controllers, and external video sources into a centralized AXION-X distribution chassis for routing to control room monitors.
• Digital signage content source aggregation — Accept HDMI outputs from media players, content management appliances, and live video feeds into the AXION-X matrix for routing to signage displays throughout a venue.
• Broadcast facility signal routing — Integrate camera outputs, production switcher feeds, and playout server signals into the AXION-X chassis for routing to monitoring and recording destinations.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this input card accept signals from HDMI 1.4 sources such as older laptops or Blu-ray players?

Yes. The HDMI 2.0 inputs on this card are backward compatible with HDMI 1.4 and earlier sources. Older sources will operate at their native signal level; the card does not require all sources to be HDMI 2.0 or 4K-capable.

What is the audio limitation and when does it matter?

This card accepts only 2-channel PCM stereo audio. Sources carrying Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, or other multi-channel audio formats will have their audio downmixed or the multi-channel audio will not pass through. For installations where surround sound or immersive audio pass-through is required, specify an alternative AXION input card that supports multi-channel audio formats.

How does MCS benefit a source-switching scenario?

When a presenter connects a new laptop or when an AV system switches to a different source device, the standard HDMI handshake process causes a brief black screen on downstream displays while EDID and HDCP are renegotiated. MCS prevents this by maintaining a stable output signal at the display during the transition, which is particularly important in live presentation environments and control rooms where display continuity is operationally critical.

Is this card compatible with the AC-AXION chassis (non-X model)?

No. This card is designed exclusively for the AC-AXION-X chassis. Verify your chassis model before ordering. The AC-AXION and AC-AXION-X are distinct platforms with different card slot formats.

Can multiple input cards be installed in the same chassis alongside multiple output cards?

Yes. The AC-AXION-X chassis accepts any combination of input and output cards within its available slot count. A typical system design mixes input cards (such as the AC-AXION-IN-MCS) and output cards (such as the AC-AXION-OUT-MCS) in proportions that match the source and display count of the installation. Consult the AXION-X chassis documentation for maximum slot count and power budget per chassis configuration.