Lightware Visual Engineering has launched Taurus UCX HC40, a transformative video switcher optimised for AV integrators. The innovative device simplifies 4K video, audio, and control signal transmission via a single USB-C connection.
It enhances AV setups with high-quality, ultra-low-latency video and audio, and reduces cable usage. The updated device features an improved USB Hub, more flash storage, and an efficient cooling design.
Moreover, it offers automated room control, analogue audio de-embedding, and multiple USB connectivity. A Dante version of the device, offering audio signal de-embedding, will be available in November 2023.
- Lightware Visual Engineering has launched the Taurus UCX HC40, a groundbreaking video switcher that harnesses the potential of USB-C connectivity for AV installations.
- The Taurus UCX HC40 simplifies 4K video, audio, and control signal transmission while reducing the use of cables and connectors.
- The device offers high-quality and ultralow-latency video and audio, an improved USB Hub, a front live LED for easy status monitoring, and other features for enhanced AV integration.
A New Dawn in AV Connectivity
In a world where digital communication is crucial, the need for efficient, high-quality connectivity solutions is paramount. Enter the Taurus UCX HC40, a groundbreaking video switcher that’s set to transform AV installations. With a focus on usability and performance, it brings a new level of sophistication to the integrated systems market.
Unleashing the Power of USB-C
Harnessing the potential of USB-C, the Taurus UCX HC40 simplifies 4K video, audio, and control signal transmission. This state-of-the-art device achieves high-quality and ultra-low-latency video and audio with data speeds of up to 5 Gbps, thanks to the USB 3.1 Gen1 technology.
The result? A cleaner, more efficient setup with reduced cable use and a single USB-C connection for power.
Enhanced Features for Seamless Integration
The Taurus UCX HC40 isn’t just about streamlining connections. It’s also packed with features designed for seamless integration and user-friendly operation. These include an improved USB Hub for faster connections, a front live LED for easy status monitoring, more flash storage space and a new vent hole design for efficient cooling.
Additionally, the device includes built-in room control through GPIO ports, analogue audio de-embedding and Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) for interconnected HDMI devices.
Power and Compatibility
Users can benefit from the device’s multiple USB 3.1 Gen 1 Connectivity that supports various USB devices. The second USB hosts a port to USB-C (data only) to support active USB extender cables, which simplifies setups and ensures seamless extension of AV systems.
The device also offers power charging up to 100W (120W total) for laptops or mobile devices, eliminating the need for an extra wall plug. Mac users can enjoy an updated USB-Ethernet gateway for MacBook M1/M2 compatibility.
Future Developments
In a nod to the future, Lightware has plans to launch a Dante version of the Taurus UCX 4×2 variant. Slated for November 2023, this version will support the Dante/AES67 network connection. This will allow immediate de-embedding of audio signals from the HDMI source to an external audio system that is Dante/AES67 compatible. An advanced version with a bidirectional Dante feature is set for release in early 2024.
“Our commitment to innovation is one of the characteristics of Lightware Visual Engineering and it’s embedded in each one of our products and solutions. With Taurus UCX HC40, we are moving a step forward, elevating installations with the latest in USB-C technology, and delivering superior experiences for AV integrators,” said Gergely Vida, CEO, Lightware Visual Engineering.
Final Thoughts
The Taurus UCX HC40 is a testament to Lightware’s dedication to innovation. It’s a game-changer in the world of AV integrations, harnessing the latest in USB-C technology for superior experiences. As we move towards an ever more digital age, this kind of forward-thinking technology will become not just a luxury, but a necessity.
FAQ
Q: What is the Taurus UCX HC40?
A: The Taurus UCX HC40 is a groundbreaking video switcher designed for AV integrators. It simplifies 4K video, audio, and control signal transmission while providing power over a single USB-C connection.
Q: How does the Taurus UCX HC40 improve AV setups?
A: The Taurus UCX HC40 reduces the use of cables and connectors, making AV setups cleaner and more efficient. It also ensures high-quality and ultralow-latency video and audio with data speeds of up to 5 Gbps.
Q: What are the new features of the Taurus UCX HC40?
A: The Taurus UCX HC40 includes an improved USB Hub for faster connections and enhanced compatibility with non-compliant USB devices and extenders. It also has a front live LED for easy status monitoring, more flash storage space, and a new vent hole design for efficient passive cooling.
Q: What are some important features of the Taurus UCX HC40?
A: The Taurus UCX HC40 offers automated room control through GPIO ports, RS-232 and occupancy sensor connectivity, analogue audio de-embedding, and Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) for seamless operation of interconnected HDMI devices. It also supports multiple USB 3.1 Gen 1 connectivity for various USB devices.
Q: Can the Taurus UCX HC40 charge laptops and mobile devices?
A: Yes, users can connect their laptops or other mobile devices via USB-C and charge them up to 100W (120W total) using the Taurus UCX HC40. This eliminates the need for a wall plug and avoids interruptions during meetings.
Q: Will there be a Dante version of the Taurus UCX HC40?
A: Yes, in November 2023, a Dante version of the Taurus UCX 4×2 variant, known as the UCX-4×2-HC40D, will be released. It will support Dante/AES67 network connection for immediate de-embedding of audio signals from HDMI sources.
Q: When will the bidirectional Dante feature be available?
A: The UCX-4×3-HC40BD product version, which will have the bidirectional Dante feature, will be available in early 2024.
