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The Extron Rxi series of RGB interfaces have many uses and can be found used for decent prices. This page will outline their best features for retro-gaming and explain how to connect one to your setup, focusing on the Extron 201 Rxi and Extron 203 Rxi.


 
More information and downloads can be found on the official product pages for the [http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=rgb201rxi Extron 201 Rxi] and [http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=rgb203rxi Extron 203 Rxi] product pages.
 
 
 
**Extron Rxi Interfaces**
 
The Extron Rxi series of RGB interfaces have many uses and can be found used for decent prices. This page will outline their best features for retro-gaming and explain how to connect one to your setup, focusing on the Extron 201 and 203 Rxi. Please read on for more info:


[[File:ExtronRxi.jpg]]
[[File:ExtronRxi.jpg]]


The Extron 201 and 203 Rxi should be the final device in your RGB setup, between your switch (with consoles connected) and display. The Rxi would then connect directly to your display, or to an [emotia.html Extron Emotia], then your display, if you're looking to downscale your video.
{{Note|The Extron 201 and 203 Rxi should be the final device in your RGB setup, between your switch (with consoles connected) and display. The Rxi would then connect directly to your display, or to an [[AV:Extron Emotia]], then your display, if you're looking to downscale your video.}}
== Inputs ==


**Inputs:**
Both Rxi's have a DSUB (VGA-style) input. In order to connect your retro gaming consoles, you have a few choices:
* Use a [[AV:Gscartsw]] that offers both SCART and VGA outputs.
* Use a [http://joca-tech.de/Arcadeforge/product_info.php?products_id=15&XTCsid=2acrk84q0apnrcvtf0el0eppv3 Sync Strike].
* Purchase a SCART to VGA cable (these cables do not convert to VGA, they're simply connector adapters).
* Make your own SCART to VGA cable; Google "SCART pinout" and match it to the below RGB pinout.
*: [[File:VGAConnector-02.jpg|200px]]


: Both Rxi's have a DSUB (VGA-style) input. In order to connect your retro gaming consoles, you have a few choices:
== Video Outputs ==
:
: \- Use a [scartswitches.html gscartsw] that offers both SCART and VGA outputs.
:
: \- Use a [http://joca-tech.de/Arcadeforge/product_info.php?products_id=15&XTCsid=2acrk84q0apnrcvtf0el0eppv3 Sync Strike].
:
: \- Purchase a SCART to VGA cable (these cables do _not_ convert to VGA, they're simply connector adapters)
:
: \- Make your own SCART to VGA cable; Google "scart pinout" and match it to [https://cdn.retrorgb.com/images/VGAConnector-02.jpg this RGB pinout].


**Video Outputs:**
The Rxi series offers both VGA and BNC outputs. The BNC outputs apply the RXi's processing, while the VGA is simply a passthrough. More details about processing and features can be found below.


: The Rxi series offers both VGA and BNC outputs: The BNC outputs apply the RXi's processing, while the VGA is simply a passthrough. More details about processing and features can be found below.
* If you're using an RGB monitor with BNC or DSUB inputs, this makes things very easy! Simply purchase a BNC cable, or a BNC to VGA cable. When connecting, make sure to only use the sync outputs that match your system: "S", or "H+V". More info can be found on this in the sync section below.
:
* If you're using an XRGB Mini Framemeister you have a few choices:
: If you're using an RGB monitor with BNC or DSUB inputs, this makes things very easy! Simply purchase a BNC cable, or a BNC to VGA cable (links to the right -->). When connecting, make sure to only use the sync outputs that match your system: "S", or "H+V". More info can be found on this in the sync section below.
** You can order a cable from [https://retro-access.com/collections/xrgb-adaptors/products/bnc-to-8-pin-mini-din-for-extron-to-xrgb-mini-pro-coaxial-multicore Retro-Access], which also handles audio. Alternatively, you can create a [https://retro-access.com/collections/custom-cables custom cable] (choosing 8 Pin Mini DIN as source connector) without an audio cable and handle audio separately.
:
**: [[File:BNCtoFramemeisterCable.jpg]]
: If you're using an XRGB Mini Framemeister you have a few choices.  First, [http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575041517&toolid=10001&campid=5337251560&customid=&icep_item=201660930373&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg Retro Console Acessories is now offering a cable] designed exactly for Extron devices that connects directly from the Rxi to the Framemeister!
** You can use a [https://www.retrogamingcables.co.uk/sony-pvm/male-rgb-break-out-scart-to-4-x-bnc--2-x-rca-converter-cable BNC to SCART adapter] (make sure to select "Output (e.g. Extron)" from the drop-down menu), plus a [https://www.retrogamingcables.co.uk/micomsoft-xrgb/european-scart-to-framemeister-xrgb-mini-passive-converter-for-sale SCART to XRGB Cable].
: [[[File:BNCtoFramemeisterCable.jpg)](http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575041517&toolid=10001&campid=5337251560&customid=&icep_item=201660930373&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg]]
** Other upscalers might just need BNC to RCA adapters, or even just accept the signal via a VGA port. Here are the ports on the rear of the 201 and 203 Rxi:
:
**: [[File:Extron201RxiRearPorts.jpg]]
: Alternatively, you can use a [https://www.retrogamingcables.co.uk/sony-pvm/male-rgb-break-out-scart-to-4-x-bnc--2-x-rca-converter-cable?tracking=5543fb4c077bb BNC to SCART adapter] (make sure to select "Output (e.g. Extron)" from the drop-down menu), plus a [https://www.retrogamingcables.co.uk/micomsoft-xrgb/european-scart-to-framemeister-xrgb-mini-passive-converter-for-sale?tracking=5543fb4c077bb SCART to XRGB Cable].  Other upscalers might just need BNC to RCA adapters, or even just accept the signal via a VGA port.  I suggest researching your solution for more info.
**: [[File:Extron203RxiRearPorts.jpg]]
:
: Here are the rear ports of the 201 and 203 Rxi:
:
: [[File:Extron201RxiRearPorts.jpg]]
:
: [[File:Extron203RxiRearPorts.jpg]]


**Audio Outputs:**
== Audio Outputs ==


: The Rxi's audio output is found on the lower right and uses something called a Phoenix connector.  Extron makes an [http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=csr6&s=4 RCA to Phoenix connector] and you can even get the same thing directly from [http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?icep_ff3=2&pub=5575041517&toolid=10001&campid=5337251560&customid=&icep_item=162258510183&ipn=psmain&icep_vectorid=229466&kwid=902099&mtid=824&kw=lg Retro Console Accessories].
The Rxi's audio output is found on the lower right and uses something called a Phoenix connector. The [https://retro-access.com/collections/xrgb-adaptors/products/bnc-to-8-pin-mini-din-for-extron-to-xrgb-mini-pro-coaxial-multicore Retro-Access cable] includes the Phoenix cable, but if you'd like to handle audio separately, there are some options:
:
* Extron makes an [http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=csr6&s=4 RCA to Phoenix connector].
: It's very easy to make your own though!  If your Rxi didn't come with an audio connector, you can get ones from the links on the right, or [http://www.digikey.com/product-search/en?keywords=1840395 directly from Digikey].  I just get a cheap cable with female RCA inputs and cut that to size.  Alternatively, you could always just cut the RCA ends of whatever cable you are using and wire them directly.  See picture examples below and here's links to the PDF wiring guide:  [http://www.extron.com/download/files/userman/68-349-01__G.pdf http://www.extron.com/download/files/userman/68-349-01\_\_G.pdf]
* Retro Gaming Cables sells [https://www.retrogamingcables.co.uk/STEREO-SOUND-RCA-PHONO-TO-PHOENIX-5-WAY-ADAPTER-FOR-EXTRON-MATRIX-300-SWITCH?search=Phoenix%20 Pheonix-to-RCA adapters]
:
* There are multiple [https://www.amazon.com/LUTIONS-8inches-3-Screw-Terminal-Connector/dp/B01LWK3G1L Pheonix to Aux adapters] (male or female ones)
: [[File:Extron%20RXi%20Audio%20Wiring.jpg]]
* You can buy loose Phoenix (aka "terminal block") connectors and insert your own bare wires. A wiring guide can be found [http://www.extron.com/download/files/userman/68-349-01__G.pdf on Extron's site] ([[:File:68-349-01_G.pdf|mirror]]).
:
: [[File:Extron%20RXi%20Audio%20Wiring%20RCA%20Jacks.jpg]]


:[[File:Extron%20RXi%20Audio%20Wiring.jpg|400px]] [[File:Extron%20RXi%20Audio%20Wiring%20RCA%20Jacks.jpg|375px]]


**Different uses for the Rxi boxes**
== Use Cases ==


**Sync:**
=== Sync ===


: The main reason I started using an Extron Rxi was for it's sync processing.  The Rxi's are _NOT_ sync strippers, they're simply sync processors (explained in the paragraph below). For more information on sync, please see [sync.html the sync page].
The Extron Rxi does sync processing. The Rxi's are NOT sync strippers, they're simply sync processors that are capable of doing sync combining. For more information on sync, please see [[Types_of_Sync|the "Types of Sync" page]].
:
: Most 5th generation consoles (and earlier) output RGBs, which is simply RGB+csync. Some newer consoles output RGsB, which carries the sync signal on the green line. Also, VGA is actually RGBHV, which is similar to RGBs, but with the horizontal and vertical sync signals separated. No matter what sync signal you input into the Rxi, it will output either RGBHV or RGBs. There's no complicated configuration, simply connect whichever output your display requires.  This is great for displays that only accept RGBs, such as the Sony PVM and BVM RGB monitors...as well as the XRGB Mini.
:
: A good example of how I put this feature to use is GameCube component cables which have been VGA-modded; After the mod, the GameCube now outputs 240p, 480i and 480p, all through RGBHV.  I can use the RGBs output of the Extron Rxi to connect that signal to all of my RGBs-only devices.
:
: Also, the Rxi's seem to help when using consoles that are known for sync issues, such as the Sega Genesis.


**Options:**
Most 5th generation consoles (and earlier) output RGBs, which is simply RGB+CSYNC. Some newer consoles output RGsB, which carries the sync signal on the green line. Also, VGA is actually RGBHV, which is similar to RGBs, but with the horizontal and vertical sync signals separated. No matter what sync signal you input into the Rxi, it will output either RGBHV or RGBs. There's no complicated configuration, simply connect whichever output your display requires.  This is great for displays that only accept RGBs, such as the Sony PVM and BVM RGB monitors, as well as other scalers. If you're only looking for a sync combiner, you can find very cheap Extron boxes that lack many of the features of the 203 and 203, but still work perfect for RGBHV to RGBs conversion.


: Both Rxi's have the same front options.  I'll explain basic uses for each:
The Rxi's also seem to help when using consoles that are known for sync issues, such as the Sega Genesis.
:
: > \- The Level Boost and Peak Control are useful if there's a long distance between the Rxi and the display.  I've never really needed to use them, but they can help clean up the images in certain scenarios.
: >
: > \- The Centering controls are perfect for use with the [emotia.html Extron Emotia, when doing 480p-to-240p conversion].  They allow you to shift the image up and down by one pixel, allowing the scanlines to match up, if slightly off.
:
: The rear options are also the same on both units, with the exception of the 203, which ads an "auto switch" setting to the rear. I have all of mine set to off, except the following:
: **MONITOR FOLLOWS** - Turn this on to enable the second, passthrough output.
: **AUTO SWITCH**  - If you own a 203 Rxi, turn this on to allow it to switch between inputs.
:
: For more details on what each switch does, please see [http://media.extron.com/download/files/userman/68-664-01_RGB201xi_RevB.pdf page 2-13 of the 201 Rxi manual], or [http://media.extron.com/download/files/userman/68-655-01_RevD_RGB203Rxi.pdf page 8 of the 203 Rxi manual].
: [[File:ExtronRxiControls.jpg]]


**VGA / RGB Switch:**
=== Options ===


: The 203 Rxi has three VGA inputs and an auto-switch feature. I find this to be extremely handy, as I have many devices connected to my setup.  Input's 1 and 2 have audio as well, but Input 3 does not.
Both Rxi's have the same front options as follows:
 
* The Level Boost and Peak Control are useful if there's a long distance between the Rxi and the display. They can help clean up the images in certain scenarios.
**Cheaper Alternatives:**
* The Centering controls are perfect for use with the [[AV:Extron Emotia]], when doing 480p-to-240p conversion. They allow you to shift the image up and down by one pixel, allowing the scanlines to match up, if slightly off.
 
* The rear options are also the same on both units, with the exception of the 203, which adds an "auto switch" setting to the rear.
: If you're only looking for a sync combiner, you can find very cheap Extron boxes that lack many of the features of the 203 & 203, but still work perfect for RGBHV to RGBs conversion.  Most will come without power supplies, but you can find cheap alternatives and just make you're own;  As long as the PSU specs match, it'll work fine.  Here's an example of what you can do:
** '''MONITOR FOLLOWS''' - Turn this on to enable the second, passthrough output.  
:
** '''AUTO SWITCH''' - If you own a 203 Rxi, turn this on to allow it to switch between inputs.
: > Extron RXi 192v (I paid $16 for mine):
: > Power Connector:  [http://www.ebay.com/itm/262679778342 http://www.ebay.com/itm/262679778342]  
For more details on what each switch does, please see [[:Media:68-664-01 RGB201xi RevB.pdf|page 2-13 of the 201 Rxi manual]], or [[:Media:68-655-01 RevD RGB203Rxi.pdf|page 8 of the 203 Rxi manual]].  
: > PSU:  [https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HLTXRYI/ https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HLTXRYI/]


**480i to 240p Conversion:**
:[[File:ExtronRxiControls.jpg]]


: On some displays, if you switch DDSP on when displaying a 480i signal, the image will appear as 240p.  This is mainly dependent on the display - This will _not_ work with any digital display (or processor) and will only work on a _very_ small percentage of RGB monitors.  I'll post a picture soon, but the conversion can be described as "better then 480i";  It's not nearly as sharp as 480p-240p, but there's less flicker and the scanlines look better.
=== VGA / RGB Switch ===


**More info:**
The 203 Rxi has three VGA inputs and an auto-switch feature. This is convenient if you have many devices connected to your setup. Input 1 and Input 2 have audio as well, but Input 3 does not.


: If you'd like more info on each of these devices, I recommend their product pages on the Extron website. There's tons of information available, as well as all of the manuals in the "downloads" section:
=== 480i to 240p Conversion ===
:
: [http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=rgb201rxi **Extron RGB 201 Rxi**]  / [http://www.extron.com/product/product.aspx?id=rgb203rxi **Extron RGB 203 Rxi**]


If you’re finished, I invite you to go back to [/ the main page] to see all the other retro-gaming awesomeness we have on this site...especially [rgbguide.html the RGB guide]!
On some displays, if you switch DDSP on when displaying a 480i signal, the image will appear as 240p. This is mainly dependent on the display — This will not work with any digital display (or processor) and will only work on a very small percentage of RGB monitors. In general, the conversion can be described as "better then 480i". It's not nearly as sharp as 480p to 240p, but there's less flicker and the scanlines look better.

Latest revision as of 17:22, 4 November 2024

The Extron Rxi series of RGB interfaces have many uses and can be found used for decent prices. This page will outline their best features for retro-gaming and explain how to connect one to your setup, focusing on the Extron 201 Rxi and Extron 203 Rxi.

More information and downloads can be found on the official product pages for the Extron 201 Rxi and Extron 203 Rxi product pages.

ExtronRxi.jpg

Exclamation-circle-fill.svgThe Extron 201 and 203 Rxi should be the final device in your RGB setup, between your switch (with consoles connected) and display. The Rxi would then connect directly to your display, or to an AV:Extron Emotia, then your display, if you're looking to downscale your video.


Inputs

Both Rxi's have a DSUB (VGA-style) input. In order to connect your retro gaming consoles, you have a few choices:

  • Use a AV:Gscartsw that offers both SCART and VGA outputs.
  • Use a Sync Strike.
  • Purchase a SCART to VGA cable (these cables do not convert to VGA, they're simply connector adapters).
  • Make your own SCART to VGA cable; Google "SCART pinout" and match it to the below RGB pinout.
    VGAConnector-02.jpg

Video Outputs

The Rxi series offers both VGA and BNC outputs. The BNC outputs apply the RXi's processing, while the VGA is simply a passthrough. More details about processing and features can be found below.

  • If you're using an RGB monitor with BNC or DSUB inputs, this makes things very easy! Simply purchase a BNC cable, or a BNC to VGA cable. When connecting, make sure to only use the sync outputs that match your system: "S", or "H+V". More info can be found on this in the sync section below.
  • If you're using an XRGB Mini Framemeister you have a few choices:
    • You can order a cable from Retro-Access, which also handles audio. Alternatively, you can create a custom cable (choosing 8 Pin Mini DIN as source connector) without an audio cable and handle audio separately.
      BNCtoFramemeisterCable.jpg
    • You can use a BNC to SCART adapter (make sure to select "Output (e.g. Extron)" from the drop-down menu), plus a SCART to XRGB Cable.
    • Other upscalers might just need BNC to RCA adapters, or even just accept the signal via a VGA port. Here are the ports on the rear of the 201 and 203 Rxi:
      Extron201RxiRearPorts.jpg
      Extron203RxiRearPorts.jpg

Audio Outputs

The Rxi's audio output is found on the lower right and uses something called a Phoenix connector. The Retro-Access cable includes the Phoenix cable, but if you'd like to handle audio separately, there are some options:

Extron RXi Audio Wiring.jpg Extron RXi Audio Wiring RCA Jacks.jpg

Use Cases

Sync

The Extron Rxi does sync processing. The Rxi's are NOT sync strippers, they're simply sync processors that are capable of doing sync combining. For more information on sync, please see the "Types of Sync" page.

Most 5th generation consoles (and earlier) output RGBs, which is simply RGB+CSYNC. Some newer consoles output RGsB, which carries the sync signal on the green line. Also, VGA is actually RGBHV, which is similar to RGBs, but with the horizontal and vertical sync signals separated. No matter what sync signal you input into the Rxi, it will output either RGBHV or RGBs. There's no complicated configuration, simply connect whichever output your display requires.  This is great for displays that only accept RGBs, such as the Sony PVM and BVM RGB monitors, as well as other scalers. If you're only looking for a sync combiner, you can find very cheap Extron boxes that lack many of the features of the 203 and 203, but still work perfect for RGBHV to RGBs conversion.

The Rxi's also seem to help when using consoles that are known for sync issues, such as the Sega Genesis.

Options

Both Rxi's have the same front options as follows:

  • The Level Boost and Peak Control are useful if there's a long distance between the Rxi and the display. They can help clean up the images in certain scenarios.
  • The Centering controls are perfect for use with the AV:Extron Emotia, when doing 480p-to-240p conversion. They allow you to shift the image up and down by one pixel, allowing the scanlines to match up, if slightly off.
  • The rear options are also the same on both units, with the exception of the 203, which adds an "auto switch" setting to the rear.
    • MONITOR FOLLOWS - Turn this on to enable the second, passthrough output.
    • AUTO SWITCH - If you own a 203 Rxi, turn this on to allow it to switch between inputs.

For more details on what each switch does, please see page 2-13 of the 201 Rxi manual, or page 8 of the 203 Rxi manual.

ExtronRxiControls.jpg

VGA / RGB Switch

The 203 Rxi has three VGA inputs and an auto-switch feature. This is convenient if you have many devices connected to your setup. Input 1 and Input 2 have audio as well, but Input 3 does not.

480i to 240p Conversion

On some displays, if you switch DDSP on when displaying a 480i signal, the image will appear as 240p. This is mainly dependent on the display — This will not work with any digital display (or processor) and will only work on a very small percentage of RGB monitors. In general, the conversion can be described as "better then 480i". It's not nearly as sharp as 480p to 240p, but there's less flicker and the scanlines look better.

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