Matrox Monarch EDGE S1

The Monarch EDGE S1 is a simultaneous encode/decode appliance, that allows users to provide return feeds to multi-camera production crews in the field. The Monarch EDGE S1 offers one 3G-SDI input, allowing program feeds coming from studio to be encoded for secure transport over private or public internet connections. At remote sites, Monarch EDGE S1 can decode one HD feed and output via a 3G-SDI connection for distribution of the program feed. As both encode and decode operations can occur simultaneously, a single camera contributor in the field can use this device to both send a high-quality feed to studio and receive the program feed being produced by the studio.

Big productions, small footprint

Bringing remote guests and talent together from separate locations for live productions has never been easier. Monarch EDGE S1’s ability to simultaneously encode and decode HD feeds provides remote participants with a single encoding channel while decoding a return channel. This Monarch EDGE S1 feature – coupled with the device’s ability to provide some of the lowest latencies on the market while using public internet – allows participants to interact with the live show and panel in near real-time.

Built for high quality 10-bit H.264 encoding

The optimized H.264 engine powering Monarch EDGE S1 keeps data rates exceptionally low without sacrificing quality. If quality is of the highest importance, streams can be encoded at 50 Mbps or higher. The input can be streamed at resolutions up to 1080p60 using the High 4:2:2 H.264 encoding profile. Furthermore, multiple processes can be performed on the input via a powerful scaling and de-interlacing engine. This enables the input to be streamed at multiple resolutions and bitrates simultaneously, which is useful for remote monitoring.

Exceptionally low latency

Low signal transport latencies are necessary for facilitating seamless interaction between staff in the production studio and on-site personnel at the event venue. With glass-to-glass latencies as low as 100 ms between Monarch EDGE S1 devices, staff at the production venue can benefit from viewing return feeds of the live broadcast in near-real time. Furthermore, when a live production has remote guest requirements, these ultra-low latencies can facilitate near-real time interactions between speakers.

Flexible protocols, secure streaming

There are a variety of streaming protocols available to Monarch EDGE S1 users for use during remote productions (REMI). On closed networks, MPEG-2 TS or RTSP streams can be selected for delivery. For cloud-based destinations, or when the network is congested, SRT may be more appropriate. SRT is an open-source format that provides the reliability of RTMP, while reducing latency, for use on open networks. SRT streams can also be encrypted if security is a concern. Monarch EDGE S1 supports the processing of MPEG-2 TS, RTSP, and SRT protocols for encode and decode operations.

Keep it in-sync

When multiple Monarch EDGE encoders are at a remote location, they can share a single clock to ensure they are encoded in-sync. For the very best results, the cameras feeding the encoders should be genlocked together to ensure each frame is captured in phase. The Monarch EDGE S1 also has a genlock input so that an SDI output feed will be in-sync with the other SDI signals originating from the studio.

Simple, easy-to-use tally and talkback

Monarch EDGE S1 offers the transfer of tally* signals and independent talkback channels to facilitate easy communication between on-site camera operators and in-studio personnel.
*These features must be supported at the decode end of the production chain with the help of custom integration by the user or vision mixer provider.

Convenient, centralized control

The Monarch EDGE Control Hub is a powerful application that provides management and configuration remotely over all Monarch EDGE units on the network. This convenient software provides authorized users with high-level views of all devices on the network, and enables full access and control from a single, easy-to-use interface.

Localised preview

Monarch EDGE S1 users can preview the input, output, or both simultaneously on a desktop monitor. Monarch EDGE Control Hub allows users to configure how they would like to preview an audio input source. From the DisplayPort and line out, users can choose to monitor or mute the audio input.