Barco E2
Barco E2: inputs, destinations, and show backup
Ask GLMedia about rental options for multiscreen presentations. We review availability, configuration, and alternatives for your event.
Model and use
With the date, location, and intended use, we can review which equipment and combination can be offered. You can inquire before measurements, drawings, or the final schedule are ready.
E2 is a modular Event Master processor for image composition and distribution to multiple screens. Barco identifies the original model as end of life and names E2 Gen 2 as its replacement.
This guide helps prepare an existing E2. A rear-panel photo and software versions help define the signal path without assuming connections from another generation.
Sources, screens, and control
- Sources
- Identify each source’s card, connector, and format. Capacity depends on the card and connector grouping.
- Screens
- Separate Screen and AUX destinations and note which screen receives each output. Plan content and destination resolutions together.
- Control
- Record networking, Event Master Toolset, and any external controller. Test picture and control as separate paths.
What to prepare
Share planned sources, screen arrangement, and a photo of the connections. We can help organize options before final dimensions or files are available.
Record versions and what each scene change should do. Separate primary material from backup and agree on a rehearsal plan.
Basic preparation
- Identify the original E2 and installed cards before counting inputs, outputs, or layers.
- Build a source → input → destination → screen list with planned format and frame rate.
- For HDMI, DVI, or DisplayPort, compare received format and EDID with connector capacity. SDI does not use EDID.
- Check output and layer assignments for each destination with representative content.
- Save a show copy before changes. An E2 Gen 2 backup is not backward compatible with E2.
- Rehearse presets with the operator and inspect every screen; document results and the working configuration.
Technical questions and show decisions
- The presentation computer sends no picture to E2: what should I check?
- Why does a screen show a different composition?
- What if Event Master Toolset cannot connect?
- Do I need a multiscreen processor if every screen shows the same picture?
- How do I prepare primary and backup without rebuilding the show at the last minute?
- Can we prepare a scene before sending it to the audience screens?
The presentation computer sends no picture to E2: what should I check?
Record source, adapters, input, and format. Compare detected signal with input configuration before changing EDID.
A limited test with a known working source and cable helps locate the affected segment. Preserve previous settings so you can return to them.
Why does a screen show a different composition?
Compare selected destination, assigned output, and recalled preset with the show diagram. Inspect content on every affected screen.
We can prepare a destination and scene table to make rehearsal checks clear.
What if Event Master Toolset cannot connect?
Check cabling, network, and unique IP addresses. For a direct connection without a DHCP server, the manual specifies compatible static addresses.
Share versions and system connections. If external control also fails, record its configuration separately before testing changes.
Do I need a multiscreen processor if every screen shows the same picture?
We can compare distribution of one signal with a system composing different destinations. Resolution, aspect ratio, cropping, and changes required by each screen matter, along with the path to its receiver.
Send a sketch and sample content. For composition, we review the cards and resources of the E2 proposed for the project; for distribution alone, we assess a simpler option for the required formats and distances.
How do I prepare primary and backup without rebuilding the show at the last minute?
Separate what needs protection: presentation computer, playback, control, or processing. Agree on the recovery picture, who performs the switch, and how every screen will be checked.
The proposal can include source and scene preparation, a show copy, and a recovery rehearsal. A configuration copy helps restoration; another chassis also needs generation, cards, versions, and connections checked before it is treated as an operational replacement.
Can we prepare a scene before sending it to the audience screens?
The system distinguishes Preview from Program: documented transitions act on selected destinations. Confirm which screen should change and which should remain stable. When using an EC-200 or EC-210 console, also review Modify PGM and Live because they allow actions on Program; checking the operating state is part of preparation.
The proposal can include a scene list, preset preparation, monitoring, rehearsal, and operation. Send the intended change and a sample even with a provisional run of show. Save the usable show and rehearse the scene and transition before use; review format, resource, or configuration changes separately on the actual system. Agree on what the audience sees during preparation and the cue for executing the transition.
Checks by symptom
| Symptom | Check | What it helps distinguish |
|---|---|---|
| Source has no picture | Detected signal, input, cable, and format. | Source, link, or assignment. |
| Wrong composition | Destination, output, and preset. | Routing or selected scene. |
| Toolset cannot connect | Cabling and network configuration. | System access. |
Limits and precautions
Keep intake and exhaust paths clear. Follow model-specific procedures with qualified personnel for internal inspection or card changes.
Back up before updating. Official notes link Toolset, firmware, and operating system; plan the combination and rehearsal outside operation.
Test restoration and recovery in a prepared environment. A saved copy does not establish that a show can be recovered on another chassis.
Official documentation
- Original E2 support
- E2 specifications and documented configurations
- Manual: input configuration
- Manual: destination configuration
- Manual: backup and generations
- Manual: network diagnosis and ventilation
- Toolset: versions and official notes
- Event Master manual — Preview/Program destination transitions
- Event Master manual — EC-200/EC-210 Live and Modify PGM
Event Master manual R5905948/15; selected sections applicable to the original E2.
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