HydraConnect (www.hydraconnect.com) has expanded its line of intelligent HDMI Switching systems with the new HS-3, which borrows the video and HDMI switching technology of the HSS-3 Flagship while allowing users to select their own analog audio switching solution.

All the advanced features of the HSS-3 such as automatic setup, CEC control of sources and displays, the easy-to-use web based interface, remote access, and automatic cloud based updates are all packed into the small 2U rack mountable chassis. Like the HSS-3, the HS-3 has eight HDMI inputs and eight full HDBaseT outputs with two selectable local HDMI outputs.

HydraConnect LLC's products differ from basic matrix switches by providing advanced system automation, automatic set-up, and interface processing through the use of an onboard Linux computer. The integrated web-based interface allows installers to use a laptop, tablet or even a smart phone to automatically setup and test all the connected devices.

HydraConnect's patented CEC Control software functions as a "universal translator" among the many HDMI hardware control implementations to eliminate IR flashers. Its processing capabilities also include patent-pending Dynamic EDID electronic device identification management that automatically manages 3D sources with mixed 3D and 2D TVs.

Installed HydraConnect products that are connected to the Internet are part of HydraConnect's "Cloud," so when software updates are available, they occur automatically in the early morning hours without user intervention or dealer visits. Remote access capability is also built in and enables a technician or the factory to troubleshoot the system from anywhere in the world.

The HS-3 costs US$6,599, while the Flagship HSS-3 is available for $7,999.