Video multiplexers handle several video signals simultaneously for programmable event monitoring, display, and recording. Video multiplexers can split a monitor into various display areas, showing the input from a number of cameras at once. Video multiplexers are used in many closed circuit television (CCTV) and video surveillance applications. Multiplexers come in a variety of configurations, including monochromatic or color display, with a variety of features, including high resolution or real time refresh rates, lightweight, low power consumption, and low profile designs. Multiplexer suppliers conform to a variety of quality standards and are located across the United States and around the world.

Video multiplexers, also called muxes, can record data coming in from multiple cameras and may provide simultaneous display and playback features, allowing for the careful monitoring of secure areas. Multiplexers that use four camera connections per monitor, or a multiple of four, are called quadriplexers. Quadriplexers, or quads as they are sometimes called, can split the screen into a 2 x 2 configuration and display all four camera signals at once. A quad may also switch between the cameras automatically. A quadriplexer can be programmed with a specific dwell time, or a span of time that any one particular camera signal is displayed onscreen before switching to the next camera. Video multiplexers can record multiple video signals on one video cassette recorder (VCR) while providing playback and display capability. A multiplexer may also provide picture-in-picture display functionality.

Applications

Video multiplexers are used in a variety of media and broadcasting applications and include features such as automatic camera detection, programmable monitor display, remote control, configurable camera recording, text formatting for recording, and multi-lingual text support. A high speed video multiplexer incorporates the use of an amplifier to provide fast switching times and less video signal distortion and are used for professional videography, broadcasting, security systems, and high definition television (HDTV) applications.