A virtual matrix (also referred to as digital matrix and virtual / digital crossbar) is the basis for professional surveillance solutions in security technology. A virtual matrix is an intelligent bundle of software and hardware for the administration of different signal sources with one or more consumers. It is used, for example, to activate video and or audio signals on certain receiving units.

With a virtual matrix the digital camera signals are already compressed at the camera (MPEG-2, MPEG-4, H.264) and fed in the network as a stream. The output of the stream is carried out via a DVI or HDMI output. The cameras thus act as senders of a video signal. This signal can now be received by one or more users as Unicast or Multicast. For each camera signal there is a separate recording device and any number of receivers in the form of workstations and monitors.

Owing to the network the cameras can be activated at the monitors as desired. With a live display the monitors obtain the signal directly from the cameras as Multicast; in the case of displaying recorded image material the signal is obtained as Unicast from the storage medium.

Thanks to the flexible system architecture of the virtual matrix the recording (one-channel or multi-channel devices) can be carried out decentralised for different locations or control rooms. In short, the recording is made where the signal originates. This also increases the failure safety of the system, because the recording is network-independent an continues uninterrupted even in the event of a complete network failure.

As opposed to a an analogue crossbar, the virtual matrix offers a considerably higher flexibility and scalability. The cascading potential of the system is unlimited, which means that the system can also be expanded or connected to other systems at will at a later point in time. Expansion stages of 10,000 channels or more are possible.

Furthermore, the virtual matrix serves as an open platform for the integration of third-party systems. Through appropriate interfaces numerous other systems can be integrated into the surveillance system. Examples are access controls, fire detection systems or burglar alarms, POS systems, cash registers, or gambling card readers. (more about interfaces and integration...)

Technology
The virtual matrix supports all network technologies including Class B or Layer 3. Also Layer 3 allows for pure Multicasting for a transmission of the signals with low network loads.

Configuration, maintenance and function tests of the complete system can be carried out conveniently via the network. Therefore, several locations can be administered from one control room, and even large and complex and systems can be controlled easily and efficiently.

The virtual matrix supports a random breakdown of the network into different VLANs. Only one cable is required for the different systems, the network load is optimised, and potential trouble shooting is simplified.

An efficient video compression makes for a low data volume and thus achieves low storage costs and lesser bandwidth requirements.

Due to its high performance capability the virtual matrix is specifically designed for new technologies such as High Definition. Thanks to the open system architecture the system remains open for expansions or further developments without the need to replace the entire system. The virtual matrix thus offers long-term investment protection. (more about the long-term investment protection...)

Application areas
The virtual matrix is the ideal solution for the surveillance of critical areas for which high image quality and real-time transmission are required. Typical areas of application include casinos, banks, airports, metros, city surveillance, manufacturing facilities, industrial plants or transport and medical institutions.

Using the virtual matrix it is possible to link any number of recorders in a network. The virtual matrix is designed so that a cascading of the system is possible without limitations. It is also easily possible to operate across various locations so that the existing systems can subsequently be linked and controlled from one joint control room.

The currently largest virtual matrix in the world was realised by Dallmeier and is installed at the City of Dreams, a giant casino and entertainment complex on the Cotai Strip in Macau (more about the casino surveillance system at City of Dreams...).

The modular structure of the system, the HotPlug functionality of the individual blades and the reserve power supply units installed in the component rack, ensures a high availability of the complete Dallmeier solution – in fact 99.99994%. That is more than the famous “Five Nines” which are regarded as the benchmark for high availability in the IT world. (more about the high-availability of Dallmeier CCTV/IP systems...)

The blade technology is not only extremely reliable but also highly service- and maintenance-friendly. In the case of faults, the defective components can be exchanged per channel. The HotPlug functionality of the blades enables the exchange during operation, thus reducing the downtime to a minimum.  

The system’s modular design keeps it open to new technologies and possibilities, therefore expansions and adjustments are no problem. The blade technology offers users long-term investment protection.