LightWare DCX-3x1-HC20 Video Switcher with HDMI 2.0 and USB-C connectivity - 91310104

Product Overview

The Lightware DCX-3x1-HC20 is a three-input presentation switcher that accepts two HDMI 2.0 sources and one USB-C source, making it purpose-built for modern conference rooms and training facilities where both fixed HDMI devices and BYOD USB-C laptops need to connect to a single display. The unit switches the selected source to an HDMI 2.0 output with USB host routing and power delivery for the connected USB-C device. It is compact enough for under-table installation and managed via Lightware's LW3 protocol for integration with room control systems.

Product Description

The DCX-3x1-HC20 addresses the most common input combination in today's meeting rooms: two permanent HDMI sources (room PC, video conferencing codec, or cable TV) and one variable USB-C laptop connection. Rather than requiring a format converter or adapter chain, the DCX-3x1-HC20 accepts all three natively and presents a single HDMI 2.0 output to the display or AV system. The HDMI 2.0 standard on all ports supports 4K@60Hz signals for high-resolution collaboration content.

USB host ports allow the selected laptop to access room USB peripherals — cameras, speakerphones, and interactive display touch-back — without requiring separate USB cables at the table. Power delivery over the USB-C port charges the laptop during the meeting. Auto-switching detects a newly connected USB-C device and routes it to the output automatically, reducing the steps required for a presenter to share content. Full control is available via RS-232 and the LW3 Ethernet protocol for integration with Crestron, AMX, and Extron.

Available from Creation Networks, an authorized Lightware dealer serving commercial AV integrators in North America.

Key Features

• Three inputs: 2x HDMI 2.0 + 1x USB-C — covers both fixed room sources and BYOD laptop connections in a single chassis
• HDMI 2.0 output — supports 4K@60Hz for high-resolution display workflows
• USB-C with Power Delivery — charges the connected laptop during the meeting over the same USB-C cable
• USB host routing — routes room USB peripherals (camera, speakerphone) to the active laptop source
• Auto-switching — detects new USB-C connections and routes automatically, minimizing presenter steps
• RS-232 and LAN control — integrates with Crestron, AMX, Extron, and other control platforms
• LW3 protocol — Lightware's open API for configuration, monitoring, and control
• Compact form factor — under-table or AV furniture installation with minimal footprint

Typical Applications

• Conference rooms with a fixed room PC (HDMI) and BYOD laptop (USB-C) presenting to a single display
• Boardrooms integrating a video conferencing codec (HDMI) with visiting presenter laptops (USB-C)
• Training rooms with instructor PC and guest presenter connections over a single switcher
• Huddle rooms requiring simple three-source switching without a full matrix system
• Collaboration spaces with touch-interactive displays using USB touch-back routing

Technical Specifications

Competitor Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the USB-C input support any laptop?

The USB-C input requires the laptop to support DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C. Most current business laptops from Dell, HP, Lenovo, Apple, and Microsoft support this standard. Laptops with USB-C ports limited to charging or USB data only will not output video through this port.

Which USB peripherals can be connected through the USB host ports?

USB host ports support HID devices (keyboards, mice), USB audio devices, UVC webcams, and other standard USB peripherals. The active source laptop sees these devices as locally connected USB hardware.

Can the switcher handle a 4K source over all inputs?

Yes. Both HDMI inputs and the USB-C input support up to 4K@60Hz. Output is also HDMI 2.0 at 4K@60Hz, assuming the display supports this resolution.

Does auto-switching work when a USB-C laptop is connected?

Yes. When a USB-C device is connected and enumerated, the DCX-3x1-HC20 can be configured to automatically switch the output to that input, facilitating a plug-and-present experience.

How is the switcher managed in a control system integration?

The DCX-3x1-HC20 supports Lightware's LW3 protocol over TCP/IP and RS-232 serial. Drivers are available for Crestron, AMX, Extron, and other platforms. The open LW3 API allows custom integrations without proprietary licensing.

What is the difference between the DCX-3x1-HC20 and the DCX-2x1-HC10?

The DCX-3x1-HC20 has three inputs (2x HDMI + 1x USB-C), while the DCX-2x1-HC10 has two inputs (1x HDMI + 1x USB-C). Choose the HC20 when two fixed HDMI sources plus a BYOD connection are required.

Where can I buy the DCX-3x1-HC20?

Available from Creation Networks, an authorized Lightware dealer serving commercial AV integrators throughout North America.