Matrox Monarch LCS - Lecture Capture Appliance

The Monarch LCS Lecture Capture Appliance from Matrox is a professional dual-channel streaming and recording solution designed for education, corporate training, and live presentation environments. It enables simultaneous capture, encoding, and delivery of HDMI and SDI video sources for both live streaming and recording workflows.

Building on the Monarch HDX platform, the Monarch LCS introduces expanded input flexibility with two HDMI inputs (video source and computer source) plus one SDI input. Its dual H.264 encoders can process up to two of these inputs at the same time, supporting rich multi-source lecture capture production.

The system delivers live preview outputs via both HDMI and SDI, allowing operators to monitor content in real time. Designed for hybrid learning environments, it enables instructors to present alongside supporting material such as slides, documents, or application screens in a seamless workflow.

Each encoder supports up to 1080p30 resolution and enables flexible production layouts including picture-in-picture (PiP), side-by-side views, dual isolated streams, and switcher-based live input selection. Select third-party players also allow viewers to choose their preferred layout dynamically.

A built-in frame synchronizer ensures smooth integration of mismatched audio and video sources by aligning computer, camera, and audio signals to eliminate timing discrepancies and frame rate differences. This guarantees stable, broadcast-quality output across all inputs.

The Monarch LCS Command Center provides web-based control from any standard browser-enabled device, including tablets and laptops. Operators can access preset encoding profiles or create and store up to eight custom configurations for streamlined production control. Integration with third-party VMS platforms is also supported for advanced workflows.

Multiple operating modes allow users to choose between automated preset layouts or manual Switcher Mode for real-time input switching during live events. In isolated mode, streams can be independently delivered to support viewer-defined layout selection in compatible third-party players.

The Monarch LCS delivers a combined encoding capacity of up to 20 Mbps at 1080p30, with flexible bitrate allocation across its dual encoders. This enables high-quality streaming for both primary and secondary content sources simultaneously.

Designed for integration into existing learning ecosystems, the system works with platforms such as Opencast and Moodle, as well as scheduling tools like Google Calendar. It supports RTMP and RTSP streaming protocols for compatibility with local servers and cloud-based delivery platforms.

Recording is supported in MOV and MP4 formats with AAC audio, and can be stored on USB drives, SD cards, or network-mapped storage. This flexibility makes it suitable for lecture capture, distance learning, and enterprise content distribution workflows.

The appliance includes robust control options, including web-based management, on-unit hardware buttons, and network-based APIs. It also supports integration with Crestron control systems and Matrox utility software for device management, updates, and remote configuration across multiple units.

Additional enterprise features include centralized device management tools, developer APIs, and optional rack mounting support, allowing up to two units to be installed in a 1RU rack tray for scalable deployment.

Key Features

• Dual HDMI inputs + 1 SDI input with flexible source selection
• Simultaneous dual H.264 encoding up to 1080p30
• Streaming and recording with PiP, side-by-side, and isolated layouts
• Web-based Command Center control interface
• RTMP / RTSP streaming support
• Recording to USB, SD card, or network storage
• Frame synchronization for mixed-source workflows
• Integration with LMS and lecture management systems
• API and Crestron control system compatibility