Extron has expanded its NAV Pro AV-over-IP platform with two new endpoints designed to simplify single-cable workstation and display connections for integrators. The company introduced the NAV E 522 switching encoder and the NAV SD 521 switching scaling decoder, adding native USB-C input and broader USB extension to NAV deployments.
What the new models do
The NAV E 522 accepts USB-C and HDMI inputs, with USB-C carrying video, audio and USB data over a single cable; Extron notes USB-C can include optional power delivery. The NAV SD 521 decodes NAV streams, provides image scaling and supports local HDMI source switching while offering USB device connectivity at the display endpoint.
- Video: support for 4K@60fps with 4:4:4 chroma sampling
- Network: operation over standard 1Gbps Ethernet networks
- USB: USB 2.0 or HID extension carried alongside video and audio
- Codec and scaling: Extron’s PURE3 codec and Vector 4K scaling technology
Usb extension and topology notes for integrators
Extron says multiple NAV SD 521 decoders can connect USB peripherals at different display locations and route them back to a single NAV E 522 host USB-C port. That topology lets integrators centralize a host connection while distributing local USB devices — keyboards, mice, touch interfaces or cameras — to remote displays without separate USB extenders.
The platform carries video, audio and USB over standard 1Gbps Ethernet, and Extron positions the solution for installations that require lossless image transport and device extension. The company’s PURE3 codec is cited as providing lossless video, while Vector 4K handles image scaling at the decoder.
| manufacturer | model | key capabilities |
|---|---|---|
| Extron | NAV E 522 | USB-C and HDMI inputs; video, audio and USB over single cable; optional PD |
| Extron | NAV SD 521 | Decodes and scales NAV streams; local HDMI switching; USB device connectivity |
Installation implications
For custom integrators and AV installers, the new NAV endpoints change a few common tradeoffs. Native USB-C input reduces cabling complexity at the source and can carry power as well as signals, while the decoder’s USB device support means fewer separate USB extension products may be required at the display. Because the system is built to run on 1Gbps networks, projects will need to account for network design and bandwidth planning to preserve the claimed 4K@60fps 4:4:4 performance.
Extron’s announcement stresses the combined handling of video, audio and USB over standard network infrastructure and highlights the company’s codecs and scaling as key elements of the solution. Integrators specifying NAV systems should confirm USB device needs (full USB 2.0 bandwidth versus HID) and plan cable runs, switch capacity and endpoint placement accordingly.
