Multi-input display processors combine multiple signals from real-time video and computer inputs on a single high-resolution monitor projection. Video inputs, video outputs, other specifications and features are all important to consider when searching for multi-input display processors.

Video input specifications to consider when searching for multi-input display processors include number of inputs, standards, formats, and horizontal scan rate.  The number of inputs specifies the maximum number of simultaneous video signal inputs from cameras, recorders, etc.  Video input standards choices include NTSC< 3.58/4.43 NTSC, PAL, SECAM, RS170, RS330, HDTV, and CCIR.  Input formats for multi-input display processors include RGB, Y P_bP_r, Y/C (S-Video), composite, DVI, and SDI.  Horizontal scan rate is the length of time an electron gun takes to move across one line (horizontal) of the screen. It is measured as the frequency at which horizontal sync pulses start the horizontal retrace for each line. A high frequency is needed for a non-interlaced scan. The horizontal sync frequency for NTSC is 15.75 KHz.

Video output specifications to consider when selecting multi-input display processors include number of outputs, standards, formats, resolutions, and multiple display options.  The number of output channels specifies the maximum number of video signal outputs to monitors, recorders, etc.  Video output standards choices include NTSC< 3.58/4.43 NTSC, PAL, SECAM, RS170, RS330, HDTV, and CCIR.  Output formats for multi-input display processors include RGB, Y P_bP_r, Y/C (S-Video), composite, DVI, and SDI.  Choices for output resolutions include 640 x 480 (VGA), 800 x 600 (SVGA), 1024 x 768 (XGA), 1280 x 1024 (SXGA), and 1600 x 1200 (UXGA).  Multiple display options include picture-in-picture (PIP), quad, nine, and sixteen.

Other specifications to consider when searching for multi-input display processors include power, mounting, and image controls.  Choices for power are 115 VAC, 230 VAC, and DC.  Mounting options include desktop or stand-alone, panel or chassis mount, rack mount, and DIN rail.  Image controls include scaling, positioning, overlay, genlock, zoom, saturation, contrast, brightness, and freeze.  Common features for multi-display inputs include time or date stamping, front control panel, multilingual programming, and remote control support.