Digital connectivity solutions provider Gefen today announced the availability of its new Gefen ToolBox 8×8 Matrix for HDMI with FST (Fast Switching Technology). This plug and play matrix switcher allows direct connections between different high definition sources and displays without networking.

Any eight sources, including Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, tablets and set-top boxes can be switched to any eight displays using this new Matrix. High definition resolutions up to 1080p full HD with 3DTV pass-through are delivered instantly when selected.

FST is a Gefen technology that speeds the HDCP (high-bandwidth digital content protection) handshaking process, which in the past could take up to ten seconds in transition when switching between sources. With FST, those ten seconds have been reduced to nearly no delay when switching sources, with high definition video appearing on the display immediately with no latency.

Installation is simple, requiring the connection of eight hi-def sources to the eight HDMI inputs, and the connection of eight hi-def displays to the eight HDMI outputs. Users can assign any source to any display, relaying video and multi-channel digital audio with no signal delays.

The 8×8 Matrix for HDMI with FST offers local front panel control, IR remote access and RS-232 for automation, IP control and is a lower cost alternative to previous product offerings.