A Video router' or Matrix are used for transporting video signals from sources or inputs to output destinations.
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The number of inputs and outputs varies dramatically. The way routers are described is normally number of inputs by number of outputs e.g. 2x1, 256x256.
The signal format that the router transports can be anything from analogue composite video using PAL and NTSC. Also Broadband routers can route more than one Digital video signal format, Serial Digital Interface (SDI), HD-SDI, component video. Some routers have the ability to internally convert digital to analog and analog to digital.
Because any of the source can be routed to any destination, the internal arrangement of the router is arranged as a number of crosspoints which can be activated to pass the corresponding source signal to the desired destination.
Many type of broadcast automation systems can be used to control a video router via IP, or serial communications such as the RS-422 9-Pin Protocol.