HydraConnect LLC has introduced iRule support software for its HSS family of HDMI matrix processors. Now, iRule users will be able to use a HydraConnect HSS matrix processor to simultaneously connect eight different program sources and eight different video displays under the remote control of iRule’s home automation system for tablets and smart phones.
The iRule system utilizes cloud-based design and mobile devices (iPad, iPhone, and Android devices) to create a powerful customized remote control for AV, lighting, shades, security, and other home automation devices. HydraConnect extends these capabilities by now making it possible to create more complex multi-source and multi-room environments.
iRule-enabled mobile devices, in conjunction with an HSS system, provide a complete AV distribution and control system without a traditional automation system. iRule site licenses are inexpensive (under $100), non-expiring and include updates and improvements. Additionally, an iRule-based automation system is a solution that both dealers and end-users can install.
HydraConnect LLC’s iRule software was developed to automatically and invisibly deal with the problems that arise in multi-source/multi-room environments in a custom installation (CI) environment where typically a collection of sources may be connected in any order and any combination to a varied collection of displays. Since the iRule control software executes within a mobile device, there is no inherent “centralized” intelligence to manage concurrent use of AV equipment. For example, when more than one room is viewing the same source and one of the rooms selects “power off”, the shared source device must be left in the powered on state until the other room has also selected “power off.” The HSS control software manages a centralized database of current connections that allows it to determine when it is safe to power off a source device.
Other features of the HSS iRule support include: automatic detection of volume ramping for highly efficient and responsive changes in volume; feedback notifications for connection changes, audio changes, and other device status changes that can be reflected in the iRule user interface for a richer experience; and straightforward iRule gateway setup utilizing a simple TCP/IP “port to device” map to ease installation.
The many unique features of HSS Matrix Processors are now available to iRule environments. These include whole house audio, video, and control distribution via 8×8 HDMI and independent 8×16 audio matrix switches. It provides auto-configuration of detected AV devices, automatic EDID and HDCP key management. CEC control of AV devices (including sources, AV receivers, and TVs) that eliminates the need for IR flashers and provides 2-way control and status, and on screen display (OSD) of source device sharing status changes. HydraConnect also provides automatic software updates for new features and software improvements, remote access without the need for security weakening port forwarding, and a web administration interface that is accessible locally and remotely using PCs, tablets, and other mobile devices
HydraConnect’s iRule support comes in the form of new software components that have been included in all new HSS matrix processors. This technology upgrade is also installed automatically on all fielded HSS-2 systems in use worldwide during Q4 without customer or dealer intervention.
