Overview

Advanced Matrix Programmer (AMP) offers two configuration methods for Just Add Power systems: Standardized Configuration and Alternate Configuration. Both configure Encoders and Decoders, but they differ in how sources are switched and who configures the network.

Standardized Configuration is recommended for most installations. Choose Alternate Configuration when an existing network or IT requirement makes the Standardized approach unsuitable. System size alone does not determine which method to use.

Comparison

Standardized Configuration

Standardized Configuration uses VLAN Switching to isolate each Encoder's audio and video stream. AMP configures the supported switches and Just Add Power devices together, providing a consistent setup and control structure.

Strengths

• Simpler setup: AMP applies the required device and switch settings, reducing manual network configuration.
• Fast source switching: Source selection uses VLAN membership changes rather than multicast group changes.
• Consistent control: The JPSW switching API provides the same control structure across supported switch manufacturers.
• Multiple-switch support: Suitable for systems that exceed one switch's capacity or serve multiple switch locations.

Tradeoffs

• Switch selection is limited to models supported by AMP.
• The network must accommodate the VLAN and device-port settings created by AMP.
• Audio and video switch together.

Choose Standardized when you can select supported switches, want AMP to manage their configuration, and expect the AV installer to maintain the system. It is also required for AMP 2G Legacy Mode.

Alternate Configuration

Alternate Configuration uses Multicast Switching. Encoders and Decoders share a dedicated Just Add Power VLAN, and each Decoder selects a source by changing its multicast Channel assignment. AMP configures the devices; the installer or IT administrator prepares the network.

Strengths

• Infrastructure flexibility: Can use existing enterprise or campus switches that meet the technical requirements.
• IT-managed configuration: Allows the network administrator to retain responsibility for switch configuration.
• Fixed port VLAN membership: Source selection does not require changing the Decoder port's VLAN membership.

Tradeoffs

• Requires manual network preparation, including correct IGMP, jumbo frame, and routing settings.
• Source switching is generally slower than VLAN Switching and depends on the network's multicast handling.
• Shared infrastructure requires bandwidth planning and coordination with IT.

Choose Alternate when Just Add Power must use an existing managed network, switch configuration is controlled by IT, or network policy prevents the VLAN changes used by Standardized Configuration. Confirm that the network meets the Multicast Switching requirements before selecting this method.

Before You Choose

For either method, confirm device compatibility, switch capacity, PoE budget, uplink bandwidth, and control-system integration before installation. VLAN isolation does not remove bandwidth requirements, and Alternate Configuration does not permit unrestricted mixing of Just Add Power devices with other equipment in the same VLAN.