The MPS-250 is a complete presentation control and signal routing solution for boardrooms and classrooms. Integrating the control system, multimedia matrix switcher, mic mixer, audio processor, amplifier, and QuickMedia distribution center all into a single 2-space rackmount package, the MPS-250 affords considerable signal routing versatility and high-performance signal processing without the need for separate components.

System Switcher
Right out of the box, the MPS-250 provides high-performance switching of 2 video and 3 RGB computer sources to a single projector or flat-panel display. Composite, S-Video, component and RGBHV signals can be routed to the appropriate inputs on the display device, with control of the display provided via Ethernet, RS-232 or IR. Input signal sensing is provided on every video and RGB input to enable auto-switching functionality and provide device power status information to the control system. Selectable sync impedance on the RGB inputs helps accommodate cable runs of varying lengths.

Versatile matrix switching inside the MPS-250 actually affords some additional hidden signal routing flexibility, providing discrete switchable outputs for RGB, composite, S-Video, and component signals. For instance, Outputs 1 and 2 can function as separate composite and S-Video outputs, or as a single component output; Output 3 can be a single component, S-Video, or composite output; and Output 4 can be used for either RGB or component. Each output is fed by a separate matrix crosspoint, so they all can be active simultaneously and assigned any relevant input source.

NEW! RGB Pass-thru mode provides a quick path to integration with the groundbreaking Crestron DigitalMedia™ system. With just a single 15-pin VGA cable connected to a DM-MD6X1 DigitalMedia switcher, DMC-DVI input card, or any other DM product with an RGB input, the MPS-250 automatically routes whatever video signal is selected – whether RGB, component, S-Video, or composite – allowing seamless conversion to digital for distribution to HDTV displays and projectors throughout your facility.

Touchpanel Output
An additional discrete output is provided on the MPS-250 to feed a preview signal to the system touchpanel or other monitor. This output is controlled separately from the main display outputs, allowing a different source to be viewed on the touchpanel. The touchpanel connection is facilitated through a choice of QuickMedia® (QM) or Crestron Home® (CH) CAT5 Balanced Video outputs, simplifying wiring to a wide range of Crestron touchpanels. The QM output supports high-resolution RGB and HDTV plus audio, while the CH output is limited to standard video and HDTV only (dependent upon the capabilities of the touchpanel).

QuickMedia®
The QM Touchpanel output can also be used to feed signals straight to the primary display device, providing a very streamlined, low-cost, long-distance wiring solution. The Crestron exclusive QuickMedia transport transmits high-resolution RGB, HD video, stereo program and microphone audio signals up to 450 feet over a single inexpensive CAT5e type cable[1]. Just one CresCAT-QM cable and a QM receiver are all that is required for complete signal routing and device control, eliminating all the bulky, expensive cabling that would otherwise be needed.

A single QM input is also provided on the MPS-250, providing additional inputs for AV, computer, and microphone sources through the simple connection of a QM Wall Plate, FlipTop Box, or Distribution Center.

4-Channel Microphone Matrix Mixing
Two gated microphone/line inputs are included on the MPS-250 complete with software-switchable 48V phantom power and independently adjustable compression and limiting. Two additional microphone signals can be brought in through the QM input, with 4-band speech-optimized equalization provided on all 4 mic channels. Sophisticated matrix mixing allows for four completely different mixes of all 4 microphones—three mixes feeding local Program, Speech, and Record outputs, and one additional mix feeding the QM output.

Professional Audio Features
Five stereo audio inputs on the rear panel accept balanced or unbalanced line-level signals from computers and other program audio sources. Additional audio sources can be brought in through the QM input. To accommodate a wide range of signals, adjustable input compensation is employed to help maintain consistent volume levels when switching between sources. Versatile matrix mixing allows the selected program signal and the 4 microphone signals to be separated or mixed in any combination to feed 3 local audio outputs, each with its own unique mix.

Three “local” balanced line level outputs are provided on the MPS-250, each with independent adjustments for volume, bass, treble, and mute. The stereo PROGRAM and mono SPEECH outputs are normally intended for driving external amplification, with relay muting on each output to prevent "thumping" on power up. The RECORD output allows for separate stereo mix to feed a recording device or assistive listening system. Ten-band graphic equalization plus 2-band parametric equalization on each output eliminates the need for expensive outboard audio processors, and up to 40mS delay adjustment is available on the SPEECH output for proper loudspeaker alignment.

The QM Touchpanel output is controlled separately from the other audio outputs, allowing a different program source and microphone mix to be monitored on the touchpanel, or output to other audio equipment by way of an appropriate QM receiver or other QuickMedia device.

Built-in Amplifier
A 40-watt amplifier is built into the MPS-250, with three models available offering the choice of 8-ohm stereo, 70V mono, or 100V mono outputs. For large rooms requiring more power, the MPS-250 supports plug-and-play compatibility with Crestron QM-Series 3-channel amplifiers, providing a complete solution for driving a professional loudspeaker system with separate program and speech channels.

Front Panel Control
Out of the box, the MPS-250 front panel supports easy pushbutton routing of input sources to each of the outputs, and audio volume adjustment using the volume control knob. Dedicated buttons and indicators are also provided for separate control of system power and projector power. In addition, five preset buttons are included for custom functions such as lowering a projection screen, closing blinds, or selecting a lighting preset.

The front panel label strips are easily customized using Crestron Engraver software or standard 3/8" tape labels, allowing for the clear designation of each input, output, and preset button. When selected, these functions will also appear on the LCD display as generic names (Input 1, 2...), or as custom names (DVD, Podium PC, Screen Up, etc.).

Easy setup of the MPS-250 is facilitated through the LCD display without necessitating a computer. Together with 4 softkey buttons, 4 menu navigation buttons and the volume knob, the LCD enables configuration of IP network, audio, and other system settings. For security, the front panel controls can be password protected or locked out.

2-Series Control System
Integrated into the MPS-250 is a Crestron 2-Series Ethernet control system complete with e-Control®2 Web server and a host of RS-232, IR, digital input and relay control ports for integration with third-party equipment. Anything from a basic AV presentation room with a single projector, screen, and keypad controller, to a fully custom touchpanel based system with multiple controlled sources and display devices, can be programmed easily using Crestron SystemBuilder™ software. And, the MPS-250 works with Crestron RoomView® Help Desk software, the industry's most comprehensive facility-wide asset management solution.

Room Control Options
Without requiring any programming, the MPS-250 can be controlled simply using a Crestron APAD LCD Controller or a selection of keypads. With custom programming, our complete line of Isys™ touchpanels and MediaManager FlipTops is supported. Equipped with an optional CNXRMIRD IR receiver, the MPS-250 allows any Crestron IR wireless touchpanel or handheld remote to be used for a low-cost wireless control solution. Or, adding an RF wireless gateway or Wi-Fi access point enables use of a wide range of 1-way and 2-way RF wireless handheld remotes and touchpanels.

Internal Block Diagrams