Lightware MX-FR17 17x17 Digital Crosspoint Router Frame - 91110002

Product Overview

The Lightware MX-FR17 is a 17x17 crosspoint modular digital router frame for professional AV installations requiring a high-capacity, field-configurable signal routing backbone. Part of Lightware's MX series — the industry's most comprehensive modular matrix platform — the MX-FR17 accommodates any combination of MX series I/O boards spanning DVI, HDMI 1.4, TPS/HDBaseT, fiber optic, 3G-SDI, and analog audio signal types. Unlike the MX-FR17R, this model uses a standard single PSU configuration appropriate for installations where power redundancy is managed externally or is not required. AV integrators specifying a 17x17 modular HDMI DVI matrix frame or a scalable AV router for broadcast and corporate spaces will find the MX-FR17 a cost-effective entry into the full MX platform capability.

Product Description

The MX-FR17 shares the full hardware and software capability of the MX-FR17R frame — including Advanced EDID Management, Frame Detector signal analysis, front panel LCD control, and the complete MX board ecosystem — differentiated only by its standard single-PSU configuration. The frame supports 17x17 non-blocking crosspoint switching at the rated I/O bandwidth of the installed boards, with I/O slots accepting hot-swappable boards for field reconfiguration.

The built-in web server provides browser-based access to the crosspoint matrix and configuration parameters. RS-232/422 serial control supports baud rates from 9600 to 115200 for integration with third-party control systems. EDID memory holds 100 factory and 50 user-programmable profiles; emulation operates at 256-byte Extended EDID v1.3. Maximum power draw is 210W and the frame meets EN 55022 Class B EMI/EMC requirements with full RoHS compliance.

Key Features

• 17x17 Non-Blocking Crosspoint — Full any-input-to-any-output routing without bandwidth contention.
• Broad I/O Board Compatibility — Accepts all MX series boards: HDMI 1.4, DVI-D, dual-link DVI, TPS/HDBaseT, fiber (LC/SC/NT), 3G-SDI, and analog audio.
• Hot-Swappable I/O Boards — Boards can be changed in the field without powering down the frame.
• Advanced EDID Management — 100 factory + 50 user-programmable EDID presets with extended emulation support.
• Front Panel LCD and Switching Keys — 4x20 character LCD with direct crosspoint control buttons for standalone operation.
• Built-in Web Server — Browser-based matrix control and configuration without additional software installation.
• RS-232/422 and Ethernet Control — Open API compatible with all major control platforms at selectable baud rates.
• Frame Detector — Real-time display of signal timing, pixel clock, scan mode, HDCP status, and color space per input.
• Pixel Accurate Reclocking — Supported on compatible output boards to ensure clean signal delivery at the destination.
• EN 55022 Class B EMI Compliance — Suitable for installation in occupied commercial and government facilities.
• 3-Year Warranty — Covered under Lightware's standard product warranty.

Typical Applications

• Broadcast studio
• Conference room
• Training room
• Auditorium
• Government space
• All-hands room

Technical Specifications

Competitor Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the MX-FR17 and MX-FR17R?

The MX-FR17R adds redundant power supply (dual PSU) capability. The MX-FR17 uses a standard single PSU configuration. Both frames are otherwise identical in crosspoint size, I/O board compatibility, and feature set.

Can MX series I/O boards be mixed in a single frame?

Yes. The MX-FR17 accepts any combination of MX series input and output boards. An installer can mix HDMI input boards with TPS output boards, fiber output boards, and analog audio boards within the same frame simultaneously.

What is the maximum number of I/O ports in a 17x17 frame?

In a 17x17 configuration, the frame supports up to 17 input channels and 17 output channels, distributed across the installed I/O boards. Board capacity per slot depends on the specific board model (most boards provide 8 channels per slot).

Does the MX-FR17 include a built-in control system?

The frame includes a built-in web server accessible via any browser over Ethernet, front panel LCD with switching keys, and RS-232/422 serial control. Event Manager functionality is available on the frame for basic automated switching triggered by signal detection.

Is third-party control system integration supported?

Yes. Lightware publishes an open RS-232 and TCP/IP protocol for the MX series, with drivers available for Crestron, AMX, Extron Control, and other platforms.

Where can I buy the MX-FR17 and get integration support?

The Lightware MX-FR17 is available through Creation Networks at creationnetworks.net. We provide pre-sale system design assistance and post-sale technical support.