PESA extends Cougar-3 router flexibility with optional Ethernet control panels

Sept. 11, 2010 - PRLog -- PESA, a leading provider of broadcast and Pro AV distribution and router transport solutions now offers a local control panel or the ability to include Ethernet control panels to its line of mid-sized 32X32 Cougar-3 routing switchers. PESA’s new line of Ethernet panels - expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2011- will include a 32X32, 16X16, or 16X4 button configuration housed in a 1U frame.  

PESA’s 1U Cougar-3 32X32 matrix switcher routes all SMPTE and ITU standard serial digital video signals; plus it supports embedded audio and other ancillary data required for HD-SDI and DVI/ASI broadcast sources. For Digital Cinema high definition video distribution requirements, the Cougar-3 can be configured to switch SMPTE 372M dual-link HD-SDI in configurations up to 16X16. All inputs are auto-equalized; and with standard SMPTE formatted outputs, each signal is auto-sensed and re-clocked to the appropriate transport stream. Signals can be re-clocked up to 80m for 1080p/60.  For non-standard formats, re-clocking circuitry can be set to by-pass mode. Two independent reference inputs allow easy selection of gen-lock from a black burst or tri-level sync source. The compact frame design features front load / hot swappable card sets and includes space for an optional redundant power supply and controller module.

The Ethernet control panels are network-enabled panels designed specifically to operate with PESA’s latest small scale system controller. Three versions are available - a 32X32, 16X16, or 16X4 with eight levels of control that can be fitted to the front of the router frame or added downstream as needed. Each pushbutton panel incorporates a clear lens cover over an LED back lighted button allowing users to custom legend for specific function requirements. Individual buttons are provided for source, destination, level or other control functions. The panels are designed to fit in standard 19” EIA equipment racks or can be attached directly to the front of the Cougar-3 chassis. Each panel is only 2” deep and can be connected with standard CAT 5e/6 network cable using a standard RJ45 jack. Two RJ45 network loop-through connectors allow multiple panels to be connected downstream.  

Cougar-3 provides control ports that allow configuring the frame for a variety of control interfaces including Ethernet control, PESA’s PERC2000, 3500Pro, or PESA’s Cattrax™ graphical user control interface. When the Cougar-3 is used with the PERC2000 or 3500Pro control systems users can take advantage of our full line of legacy RCP control panels.

PESA’s Cattrax™ management software is an intuitive, easy to use GUI control supporting the Cougar-3 as well as the full line of network ready PESA router frames. It is installed on a host PC running the Windows® operating system and communicates via an Ethernet port located on each router. For large, high-speed digital interface switching systems, the Cattrax™ full-feature Management software application supports comprehensive diagnostics and system monitoring.

“The Cougar-3 is one of the best deals for small sized 3G-SDI routing and our new Ethernet-based panel option continues to build on our ability to provide more features at competitive prices.” Stated Dan Holland, VP of Product Marketing for PESA. “These low cost control panels allow users to easily attach a pushbutton panel to the front of a Cougar-3 frame, or add several of them downstream using standard network cabling.”

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As a leading provider of audio/video connectivity, PESA offers a wide selection of routing switchers, matrix switchers, extenders, converters, media extenders, and signal processing gear to support government, military, industrial, commercial, broadcast and mobile truck applications. PESA offers one of the widest ranges of AV products – from large scale fiber optic routing to single-point CAT-5 DVI extenders – each with the integrity and innovative high performance technology expected from PESA. Our products are available around the world from a leading team of channel partners offering local support and installation and all of our products are supported by 24/7 technical support. To learn more about our technologies and services visit www.pesa.com. PESA is located in Huntsville, Alabama with regional offices throughout the United States.