The S3-4k Compact has become such a steamy topic. Everybody is just talking about it! That’s because - and I don’t think I’m wrong – it’s the next big thing in the world of AV. It’s certainly the real deal when it comes to technology imaging. The S3-4k Compact Processor from Barco is a screen management system - the first of its kind that is capable of delivering four times or even more as much as 1080p resolution of a Full HD. It’s certainly a revolution in the image technology world. Fully modular in design and enabling interlinking of the E2 and S3-4K processor chassis to expand beyond the standard number of inputs, outputs and layers available, this powerhouse provides instant access and exceptional situational awareness for host of different event applications. Barco S3-4KIt is one of the two products launched by Barco in its Event Master series of screen management systems. The categories of products in this Event Master series of screen management system are really top-notch. All I have to say is that the Barco Company really knows its turf. The products have really excelled when it comes to excellent image quality and durability. The first screen management solution that was able to manage a 4k projector blended with refresh rates of up to 60Hz was the E2 management system. The S3-4K compact processor is just a smaller version of the E2, with the same high image quality and processor performance. Now, talk of portability and flexibility! The real secret is in the Event Master Toolset – its Barco’s cross-platform GUI that brings a step-by-step approach to system configuration, allowing an easily accessible control from any Mac or Windows PC over an Ethernet connection, making preset programming and system management effortless. “The S3-4K is the E2’s more compact sidekick,” According to Andreas Yerocostas, the director of image processing R&D at Barco. “It offers unparalleled flexibility, excellent image quality and rugged durability to create a stunning live experience, all in a single compact and roadworthy enclosure.” The versatility is amazing – and it’s LOADED with all the bells and whistles:   Features 12 input channels 4 PROGRAM outputs 4 AUX outputs 2 dedicated Multiviewer outputs   Specifications
  • “Modular cardbased design”
  • “Interlinking of S34K chassis allows expansion of inputs, outputs or layers”
  • “Easy setup with the cross-platform Event Master Toolset, providing a step-by-step approach to system configuration”
  • “Using the same modular cards as the E2, the S34K is serviceable in the field and ready for future signal interfaces”
  • “Dual, redundant power supplies for maximum peace of mind”
  • “Widescreen blending support”
What the E2 can do, the S3-4K can do too It’s already established that the S3-4K Compact processor is a smaller version of the E2 management system, more like a S3-4K Featuressidekick. Can the S3-4K Compact perform all the functions in the same the way the E2 management system can? Yes, it can! The only limit here is really your imagination. Get creative and see what you can’t do with it. Let’s get a bit technical with examples of display lay-outs supported by both management systems. E2 Application 1
  • 2 PGM outputs supporting
    • 2 4K 4:4:4 @60Hz displays (also supports blending)
  • 1 AUX output supporting
    • 1 4K downstage monitor
  • Dedicated Multiviewer
    • User configurable for inputs and outputs
  E2 Application 2
  • 16 PGM outputs supporting
    • 1 4x3 Main Video Wall
    • 1 2x2 Side Video Wall
  • 8 AUX outputs supporting
    • 4 confidence monitor
    • 4 downstage monitors
  • Dedicated Multiviewer
    • User configurable for inputs and Outputs
  EC Application 3
  • 8 PGM outputs supporting
    • 1 center screen 4-projector blend
    • 2 side single projector screens
    • 1 on-stage confidence monitor
    • 1 record output
  • 4 AUX outputs supporting
    • 1 record output
    • 3 DSM monitors
  • Dedicated Multiviewer
    • User configurable for inputs and outputs
  SK-4K Application 1
  • PGM output supporting
    • 1 4K 4:4:4 @60 Hz display
  • 1 AUX output supporting
    • 1 4K downstage monitor
  • Dedicated Multiviewer
    • User configurable for inputs and Outputs
  SK-4K Application 2
  • 4 PGM outputs supporting
    • 2 center screens, each with a
    • 2-projector blend
  • 4 AUX outputs supporting
    • 1 record output
    • 1 confidence monitor
    • 2 downstage monitors
  • Dedicated Multiviewer
    • User configurable for inputs and outputs
As you can see from the above examples of display lay-outs supported by both management systems, there’s really nothing the E2 can do that SK-4K Compact processor can’t do, too. You just have to work your way around it and that’s very easy, too, because the SK-4K provides a step-by-step approach to system configuration. The broadcast studios and the rental markets have the ultimate control with this compact screen management system, thanks to the Barco Company! About Barco Barco, a global technology company, designs and develops networked visualization products for the Entertainment, Enterprise and Healthcare markets. Barco has its own facilities for Sales & Marketing, Customer Support, R&D and Manufacturing in Europe, North America and APAC. Barco (NYSE Euronext Brussels: BAR) is active in more than 90 countries with 3,250 employees worldwide. Barco posted sales of 1.051 billion euro in 2014. *All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their registered owners.