Vertex

A media server is a purpose-built system that stores, manages, processes, and plays video content in real time. It can synchronize high-quality visuals across multiple displays while giving production teams flexible, reliable control. Unlike a standard computer or video player, a professional media server is built for complex visual experiences. It can power LED walls, projection mapping, immersive environments, stadium displays, museums, live events, broadcast studios, and themed attractions. Vertex media servers do more than play video. They combine media playback, real-time graphics, display management, automation, and connections to other systems in one platform.

• Play back high-resolution video, images, graphics, and live sources
• Drive multiple LED walls, projectors, and displays simultaneously
• Synchronize content across multiple outputs and servers
  Warp, blend, and map content to virtually any display surface
• Control playback based on schedules, triggers, sensors, or external control systems
• Integrate with lighting, audio, Vertex ShowControl, Dashboard, broadcast, and automation systems
• Deliver reliable 24/7 operation for mission-critical environments

Media servers are commonly found in:

• Sports arenas and stadiums
• Museums and visitor attractions
• Corporate experience centers
• Broadcast studios
• Projection mapping installations
• Cruise ships
• Theme parks
• Retail environments
• Live events and concerts
• Immersive experiences

As display technology becomes larger and more complex, traditional playback devices are often unable to meet the performance and flexibility requirements of modern installations.

• A professional media server provides:
• Reliable, frame-accurate playback
• Scalable multi-display performance
• Advanced content mapping and display management
• Easy integration with existing AV infrastructure
• Centralized control of complex visual systems
• Long-term stability for permanent installations

Whether you’re creating an immersive museum exhibit, operating an LED perimeter system in a stadium, or managing a large-scale projection mapping installation, a media server ensures your content is delivered reliably, efficiently, and exactly as intended.

The sheer volume of supported I/O protocols and devices makes Vertex truly unique for creating immersive and interactive experiences with advanced show control. Combined with ShowControl for simplified operation of your Vertex system.

Vertex software is perpetual and comes with one year of software updates. An optional annual Maintenance program provides users with all updates released during the following 12 months. For more information speak with your Ross representative.

Trial: Free version for evaluation and learning with full feature set. Watermarked and interrupted rendering output.

Designer: Offline programming environment.​ Connect to a Director for real-time collaboration on site. For operators and technicians.​

Director: Core control system of any Vertex cluster.​ Create and program shows and timelines.​

Node: Rendering output only. Director required for programming.​

Solo: Programming and rendering on a single system.​​ Connection to another Solo system for backup

SUITE: The full feature set with no limitations.​

Vertex has both a software-only solution and a full hardware lineup. Use your own server hardware or if you prefer a full Vertex solution, we offer multiple hardware options with to meet your project requirements and optimized for Vertex.

As each project is vastly different, it is best to confirm your hardware requirements with our experts. Our team can provide hardware recommendations to ensure the best possible performance. Typically a professional grade server with pro graphics cards and top-end components are recommended for most installations.

Recommended hardware specifications

If maximum reliability, simplified support, and turnkey deployment are your priorities, Ross Vertex hardware is the ideal choice. If you already have qualified hardware, specific infrastructure standards, or unique project requirements, Vertex software can be deployed on your own systems without compromising functionality. Either way, you benefit from the same powerful media server software and a solution that can grow alongside your projects.

Protocols:
Vertex supports ArtNet, CITP, COM, DMX, HTTP, MAnet, MIDI, OSC, RossTalk, sACN, SMPTE LTC, TCP, TUIO, and UDP in the base Director license, with MQTT, PLink, PSN, and KNX available via the Show Control option.

Devices:
Vertex integrates with Elgato devices in the base Director license, and extends support via the Show Control option to a broad ecosystem including Analog Way, Barco, Biamp, Blackmagic Design, Brompton, Christie, Extron, FreeD, Kramer, Lightware, Logitech, NEC, NovaStar, Panasonic, Phidget, Schauf, Smart Monkeys, Sony, Stage Precision, Stype, TrackMen, and Yamaha.

Tools:
Vertex includes Control Views, DMX Recording, MIDI Map Editor, Project Item Import/Export, Scripts, and Stream Deck Editor in the base Director license. Advanced tools such as the 2D Tracking Editor, DataTable Editor, Node Systems, Schedules, Script Editor, Triggers, WebClient Management, and Wirings available via the Show Control option.

For synchronized playout of media across multiple systems you can align you display rates and to have all GPUs to generate their frames at a coordinated time.

VERTEX fully supports NVIDIA GPU synchronization by utilizing NVIDIAs frame counter as an optional VERTEX Systems Sync Clock source meaning GPU sync does not synchronize only on a hardware level.

Information on GPU Sync / Frame Lock Setup

Vertex is designed to work as a swarm of individual systems where every information and setting is shared. A network cluster of systems connected is called a Vertex Session.

One system is responsible for Project data handling in the Master Role and all other systems are Session Members. Session Members can work in UI mode, fullscreen mode or both. For more detail you can read this section of the manual. Vertex Multi System Configuration

The Vertex encoding engine is based on FFmpeg and supports most common file formats. Any codec supported by FFmpeg as well as high quality codecs including Apple ProRes, HAP/HAP-Q and Notch LC. Vertex also supports image sequences, live inputs, procedural content, HTML and Text input. You can also import files from PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop and Notch Blocks.