Magewell launches Modator, a new family of modular IP conversion solutions

The new Modator family of Magewell seeks to bridge traditional and IP-based workflows by bringing the low-latency performance of the company's encoders and decoders to a high-density modular rack-mountable form factor.

Visitors to NAB 2024 you will be able to discover the first modules Modator mounted on the new chassis Modator 2U from the company, designed to fit standard rack deployments with slots for up to 10 modules. Modator modules each offer their own network connectivity and can operate independently to convert between baseband video/audio signals and IP streams. Each module features a web-based management interface, while the Modator 2U rack and each installed module can also be centrally configured, controlled and monitored via Magewell's optional Control Hub management software.

The family Modator will grow as the months go by, although in its initial deployment it will have four models with video connectivity IS: Pro Convert HDMI Plus Module, designed to encode HDMI input signals into high-definition IP streams in the NDI High Bandwidth format; Módulo Pro Convert HDMI 4K Plus, which encodes HDMI input signals into NDI High Bandwidth with up to 4K (4096x2160) resolution at 60 frames per second; Módulo Pro Convert for NDI to HDMI, ready to decode IP streams up to 2560x1440 in a wide range of formats (including NDI High Bandwidth, NDI HX2, NDI HX3, TVU ISSP, and H.264 or H.265 sent over RTMP, RTSP, HLS, MPEG-TS, and more) for HDMI output, and Pro Convert Module for NDI to AIO, featuring the same decoding features as the Pro Convert module for NDI to HDMI, but with simultaneous HDMI and SDI outputs up to 1080p60.

Users can configure the settings of rack network and monitor the status of the chassis and the modules installed in the Modator 2 through the screen touch LED integrated 4.8-inch screen or a browser-based web interface. The chassis features dual power supplies and optimized thermal dissipation, enabling “24/7” operation.

James Liu, VP of Engineering at Magewell, explains the philosophy behind launching the series Modator, whose first units will begin shipping in the next 60 days: "As IP-based production and distribution deployments continue to grow in scale, customers often want a higher density form factor for greater space efficiency. The new Modator series offers our signature reliability and low latency performance in a scalable solution that addresses this need."