Scalable Video Switch

Scalable Video Switch: a modular video switcher for retro consoles

Connecting several retro consoles to one television, CRT monitor or modern video scaler usually means dealing with different connectors, too few inputs and a cable collection that appears to reproduce when nobody is watching. The Scalable Video Switch takes a different approach from a conventional AV switch. Rather than using a closed design with a fixed set of ports, the SVS is a modular and user-expandable switching system for analogue video signals.

A central Control Module is combined with the exact input and output modules required for your console collection and display setup. Additional modules can be installed later as your collection grows, allowing the system to be adapted without replacing the entire switch.

Automatic input switching

The SVS detects the synchronisation signal of an active video source. When you power on a connected Mega Drive, PlayStation, Dreamcast or another console, the system automatically selects the corresponding input. Under normal circumstances, there is no need to select the input manually.

Manual control is also possible using the optional infrared remote. The Control Module can learn infrared commands and store configuration data on an SD card.

Combine SCART, Component, VGA, Composite and S-Video

An SVS system can be assembled using different types of analogue video connections. Available modules include:

• RGB SCART
• Component Video or YPbPr
• VGA and compatible analogue signals carried through a VGA connector
• Composite Video and S-Video
• optical digital audio using optional Toslink modules

A single system supports up to 32 input modules and six output modules. Input and output types can be combined to match the equipment in your setup. This makes it possible to connect consoles using several different video standards and route the selected signal to a video scaler, CRT monitor or other compatible equipment.

Supports classic resolutions up to 1080p

The system can carry analogue video signals ranging from classic retro resolutions such as 240p and 480i up to 1080p. The exact formats and resolutions available depend on the installed modules, cabling and receiving equipment.

Higher-bandwidth signals should be positioned as close to the output modules as possible within the modular chain. Lower-bandwidth retro signals such as 240p and 480i are suitable for larger configurations containing many input modules.

Direct RetroTINK 4K integration

One of the most distinctive SVS features is its direct integration with the RetroTINK 4K. The switch can load an individual scaler profile and send supported control commands automatically for each input. Changing from one console to another can therefore select both the correct video input and the appropriate scaler configuration.

Other video scalers, including the RetroTINK 5X, OSSC and OSSC Pro, can be controlled using the integrated IR blaster. Stored infrared commands can be transmitted automatically according to the currently selected input.

Signal routing and optional format conversion

In its standard configuration, the SVS routes an incoming signal without converting its format. An RGB signal received through SCART therefore remains RGB even when it is routed through an output module using a different physical connector. The receiving device must support the signal format that is actually being transmitted.

Optional RGB-to-YPbPr and YPbPr-to-RGB transcoder modules are available for systems that require signal conversion. These modules allow the necessary conversion stage to become part of the modular SVS configuration.

An automatic switcher, not a matrix switch

The SVS is not a matrix switcher. Only one input can be active at a time, but the selected signal is sent to all installed output modules simultaneously. This can be useful when the same console needs to feed a video scaler, capture device and compatible monitor as part of one installation.

Who is the Scalable Video Switch designed for?

The Scalable Video Switch is particularly suitable for retro gaming enthusiasts, collectors, streamers and technical users who want to keep several analogue consoles connected permanently. It is especially useful in larger installations that combine several video standards with a modern video scaler.

• Large collections with many permanently connected consoles
• Mixed RGB, Component, VGA, Composite and S-Video installations
• RetroTINK, OSSC and other video scaler setups
• Systems that may require additional connections in the future
• Users who want automatic switching and input-specific scaler profiles

Frequently asked questions about the Scalable Video Switch