ALFAtron ALF-MMX88A-N User manual

www.alfatronelectronics.com
ALFATRON ELECTRONICS GmbH GERMANY
ALF-MMX88A-N
Modular Matrix Switcher 8x8
All Rights Reserved
Version: ALF-MMX88A-N_2021V1.6

ALF-MMX88A-N
Preface
Read this user manual carefully before using the product. Pictures are shown in this
manual for reference only. Different models and specifications are subject to real
product.
This manual is only for operation instruction, please contact the local distributor for
maintenance assistance. The functions described in this version is updated as of
December, 2019. In the constant effort to improve the product, we reserve the right to
make functions or parameters changes without notice or obligation. Please refer to the
dealers for the latest details.
FCC Statement
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a commercial
installation.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference, in which
case the user at their own expense will be required to take whatever measures may be
necessary to correct the interference.
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacture would void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Do not dispose of this product with the normal household waste at the end of its life
cycle. Return it to a collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic devices.
This is indicated by the symbol on the product, user manual or packaging. The
materials are reusable according to their markings. By reusing, recycling or other forms
of utilisation of old devices you make an important contribution to the protection of our
environment. Please contact your local authorities for details about collection points.

ALF-MMX88A-N
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
To ensure the best from the product, please read all instructions carefully before using
the device. Save this manual for further reference.
Unpack the equipment carefully and save the original box and packing material for
possible future shipment.
Follow basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electrical shock, and injury
to persons.
Do not dismantle the housing or modify the module. It may result in electrical shock
or burn.
Using supplies or parts not meeting the products’ specifications may cause
damage, deterioration, or malfunction.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain, moisture or install
this product near liquid.
Do not put any heavy items on the extension cable in case of extrusion.
Do not remove the housing of the device as opening or removing housing may
expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards.
Install the device in a place with fine ventilation to avoid damage caused by
overheat.
Keep the module away from liquids.
Spillage into the housing may result in fire, electrical shock, or equipment damage.
If an object or liquid falls or spills on to the housing, unplug the module immediately.
Do not twist or forcefully pull the ends of the optical cable. It can cause malfunction.
Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners to clean this unit. Always unplug the power to
the device before cleaning.
Unplug the power cord when left unused for a long period of time.
Information on disposal for scrapped devices: do not burn or mix with general
household waste, please treat them as normal electrical wastes.

ALF-MMX88A-N
Table of Contents
1. Product Introduction....................................................................................................1
1.1. Features ...........................................................................................................1
1.2. Signal Card.......................................................................................................2
1.3. Package List .....................................................................................................3
2. Panel Description........................................................................................................4
2.1. Matrix Front Panel ............................................................................................4
2.2. Matrix Rear Panel.............................................................................................5
2.3. Signal Card.......................................................................................................6
2.3.1. 4I-VA .......................................................................................................6
2.3.2. 4I-UH & 4O-UH.......................................................................................8
2.3.3. 4I-UHS & 4O-UHS..................................................................................9
2.3.4. 4I-BT & 4O-BT......................................................................................10
2.3.5. 4I-BTS & 4O-BTS .................................................................................11
3. System Connection...................................................................................................13
3.1. Usage Precautions .........................................................................................13
3.2. Connection Diagram.......................................................................................13
4. Button Control...........................................................................................................14
5. IR Remote Control ....................................................................................................15
6. RS232 Control ..........................................................................................................15
6.1. RS232 Communication Port ...........................................................................15
6.2. RS232 Control Software.................................................................................15
6.3. RS232 Communication Command .................................................................18
6.3.1. System Control Command....................................................................19
6.3.2. Signal Switching Command..................................................................19
6.3.3. Preset Command..................................................................................19
6.3.4. EDID Management Command..............................................................20
6.3.5. 4I-VA Input Card Command..................................................................21
6.3.6. 4I-UH Input Card Command.................................................................22
6.3.7. 4I-UHS Input Card Command...............................................................22
6.3.8. 4O-UHS Output Card Command ..........................................................23

ALF-MMX88A-N
6.3.9. 4I-BT Input Card Command..................................................................24
6.3.10. 4O-BTS Output Card Command.........................................................26
7. TCP/IP Control..........................................................................................................28
7.1. Control Mode ..................................................................................................27
7.2. TCP/IP Communication Software ...................................................................31
7.3. Port Management ...........................................................................................32
8. Specification .............................................................................................................33
8.1. Main Unit ........................................................................................................33
8.2. Signal Card.....................................................................................................33
8.2.1. 4I-VA .....................................................................................................33
8.2.2. 4I-UH & 4O-UH.....................................................................................34
8.2.3. 4I-UHS & 4O-UHS................................................................................35
8.2.4. 4I-BT & 4O-BT......................................................................................35
8.2.4. 4I-BTS & 4O-BTS .................................................................................36
9. Troubleshooting & Maintenance ...............................................................................38
10. After-Sales Service .................................................................................................40
11.Warranty ..................................................................................................................41

ALF-MMX88A-N
1
1. Product Introduction
The Alfatron ALF-MMX88A-N is a high-performance 8x8 video and audio modular
matrix switcher. It supports different video signals with cross switching. Every AV signal
is transmitted and switched independently to decrease signal attenuation. The ALF-
MMX88A-N supports various changeable cards including HDMI, VGA, and HDBaseT
etc. Users can choose to insert different signal cards for different applications.
The ALF-MMX88A-N has an RS232 port and a TCP/IP port for convenient control from
third-party devices. With its flexible design, the ALF-MMX88A-N can be used for
different projects and tends to be an all-in-one solution. It is the combo solution for
multimedia conference rooms, control rooms, broadcasting rooms, shopping centers
etc. It will handle all the audiovisual management, including the switching, driving,
scaling etc.
1.1. Features
Modular chassis with configurable I/O slots.
Various I/O cards, includes HDMI, HDBaseT, and VGA cards (Compatible with YUV,
YC & CVBS.) to configure any matrix.
Truly cross-point switching, any input to any output, regardless signal format.
Supports HDMI1.4a, 3D.
Integrated HDBaseT technology.
Controllable via button, RS232 & optional TCP/IP, also compatible with 3rd party
control.
HDCP compliant.
LCD display.

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2
1.2. Signal Card
The matrix supports multiple signal cards as listed in the following charts:
Signal Model Description
VGA 4I-VA 1080P seamless VGA input card with 4 VGA and 4
external L+R audio ports.
HDMI
4I-UH 4K HDMI input card with 4 HDMI, and 4 external L+R
audio ports.
4O-UH 4K HDMI output card with 4 HDMI and 4 external L+R
audio ports.
4I-UHS 4K seamless HDMI input card with 4 HDMI and 4
external stereo audio ports.
4O-UHS 4K seamless HDMI output card with 4 HDMI and 4
external stereo audio ports.
HDBaseT
4I-BT 4K HDBaseT input card with 4 HDBT, 4 RS232 and 4
external stereo audio ports.
4O-BT 4K HDBaseT output card with 4 HDBT, 4 RS232 and 4
external stereo audio ports.
4I-BTS 1080P seamless HDBaseT input card with 4 HDBT, 4
RS232 and 4 external stereo audio ports.
4O-BTS 1080P seamless HDBaseT output card with 4 HDBT, 4
RS232 and 4 external stereo audio ports.

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1.3. Package List
1x ALF-MMX88A-N Modular Matrix Switcher
1x IR Remote
1x RS232 Cable
4x Plastic Cushions
1x Power Cord
1 x User Manual
Note:Please contact your distributor immediately should any damage or defect in the
components be found.

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2. Panel Description
2.1. Matrix Front Panel
No.
Name
Description
①
IR
Built-in IR sensor to receive IR signal sent from IR remote.
②Power LED The LED illuminates red when powered.
③
LCD Screen
Shows real-time operation status.
④INPUTS
Back-lit buttons for input selection, ranges from 1~ 8,
corresponding to 1~8 sources on input signal cards (counting
from left to right, top to bottom).
⑤OUTPUTS
Back-lit buttons for output selection, ranges from 1~ 8,
corresponding to 1~8 displays on output signal cards
(counting from left to right, top to bottom).
⑥MENU
AV: Switch AV signal from AV signal card and audio signal
from audio card synchronously.
VIDEO: Switch AV signal from AV signal card only.
AUDIO:Switch audio signal from audio card only.
ALL: Select all input or output channels.
THROUGH: Switch the signals directly to the corresponding
output channels.
UNDO: Undo button, to resume the status before the
command that was just performed.

:Backspace button, to backspace the last press.
INPUTS
OUTPUTS
1 2 3456 7 8
1 2 345678
AV
Video Audio
MENU
IR
SYSTEM MONITOR
Undo
ALL
All Through
1
25
346

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2.2. Matrix Rear Panel
No.
Name
Description
①INPUTS Signal card slots to insert necessary input cards.
②OUTPUTS Signal card slots to insert necessary output cards.
③
TCP/IP
RJ45 connector for TCP/IP control.
④RS232
Serial control port for RS232 control.
⑤Power port
Connect with household alternating current power.
⑥GND connector System grounding.
R 232S
TCP/IP CONTROL
OUTPUTS
OUTPUTS
VGA 3VGA 2V GA 1 VGA 4
INPUTS INPUTS
VGA 3VGA 2V GA 1 VGA 4
OUTPUTS
OUTPUTS
VGA 3VGA 2V GA 1 VGA 4
INPUTS INPUTS
VGA 3VGA 2V GA 1 VGA 4
123
4
5
6
INPUTS INPUTS
SEAMLESS
LR
1
2
Aud io
AV 1 AV 2
LR
3
4
Audio
AV 3 AV 4
OUTPUTS
OUTPUTS
SEAMLESS
LR
1
2
Audio
AV 1 AV 2
LR
3
4
Audio
AV 3 AV 4
INPUTS INPUTS
HDMI 3
HDMI 2HDMI 1 HDMI 4
L R L R
1
2
3
4
Aud io Aud io
SEAMLESS
OUTPUTS OUTPUTS
HDMI 3
HDMI 2HDMI 1 HDMI 4
L R R
1
2
3
4
Aud io
Audio
SEAMLESS

ALF-MMX88A-N
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2.3. Signal Card
The MMX88A-N supports expansion through various changeable input / output cards of
different signals including HDMI, VGA, and HDBaseT. Here is a brief introduction to the
changeable cards.
2.3.1. 4I-VA
1080P seamless VGA input card with 4 VGA and 4 external L+R audio ports.
4I-VA
Supports seamless switching and can be used in combination with other seamless
output signal cards.
Supports video upscaling, converting input video to 1080P or 1920x1200P.
Supports input resolution selection.
Manually select VGA (RGBHV), YPbPr, S-VIDEO or C-VIDEO signal format.
Compatible with HDMI and DVI signal input.
Supports YCBCR or RGB chrominance space.
Supports VGA input signal auto correction.
Supports 4 external L+R audio inputs and audio channel control.
Pin layout of female VGA connector:
Pin
Signal
Pin
Signal
1
RED
9
KEY/PWR
2
GREEN
10
GND
3
BLUE
11
ID0/RES
4
ID2/RES
12
ID1/SDA
5
GND
13
H-Sync
6
RED_RTN
14
V-Sync
7
GREEN_RTN
15
ID3/SCL
8
BLUE_RTN

ALF-MMX88A-N
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When connecting to YPbPr or C-VIDEO signal, insert converting cables according to
specific pin definitions (see the figures below):
VGA- YPbPr:
Pin
Signal
Pin
Signal
1
RED
6
GND
2
GREEN
7
GND
3
BLUE
8
GND
Other pins are not used.
VGA- C-VIDEO:
Pin
Signal
Pin
Signal
1
RED
6
GND
7
GND
8
GND
Other pins are not used.

ALF-MMX88A-N
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2.3.2. 4I-UH & 4O-UH
4K seamless HDMI input card with 4 HDMI and 4 external stereo audio ports.
4I-UH
Supports HDMI 1.4 and HDCP 2.2.
Compatible with DVI-D signal.
Resolution is up to 4096*2160@60Hz 4:2:2.
Input signal card has character overlay function, and character can be changed to
relative attribute via commands.
Supports audio embedded function.
Input card supports OSD menu function.
For use with 1080P seamless signal card.
4K seamless HDMI output card with 4 HDMI and 4 external stereo audio ports.
4O-UH
Supports HDMI 1.4 and HDCP 2.2.
Compatible with DVI-D signal.
Resolution is up to 4096*2160@60Hz 4:2:2.
Supports various output resolutions: 1024x768@60Hz, 1360x768@60Hz,
1280x720@60Hz, 1920x1080@30Hz, 1920x1080@60Hz, 3840x2160@30Hz,
4096x2160@30Hz.
Supports audio de-embedded function.
Output card supports simple view splicing function.
For use with 1080P seamless signal card.

ALF-MMX88A-N
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2.3.3. 4I-UHS & 4O-UHS
4K seamless HDMI input card with 4 HDMI and 4 external stereo audio ports.
4I-HS
Supports HDMI 1.4 and HDCP 2.2.
Compatible with DVI-D signal.
Resolution is up to 4096*2160@60Hz 4:2:2, supports up to 8 kinds of resolution.
Input signal card has character overlay function, and character can be changed to
relative attribute via commands.
Supports audio embedded de-embedded function.
Input card supports OSD menu function.
For use with 1080P seamless signal card.
4K seamless HDMI output card with 4 HDMI and 4 external stereo audio ports.
4O-HS
Supports HDMI 1.4 and HDCP 2.2.
Compatible with DVI-D signal.
Resolution is up to 4096*2160@60Hz 4:2:2, supports up to 8 kinds of resolution.
Supports audio embedded de-embedded function.
Output card supports simple view splicing function.
Supports audio embedded de-embedded function.
For use with 1080P seamless signal card.

ALF-MMX88A-N
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2.3.4. 4I-BT & 4O-BT
4K HDBaseT input card with 4 HDBT, 4 RS232 and 4 external stereo audio ports.
4I-BT
Supports HDBT 1.0, HDMI 1.4 and HDCP 1.4.
Input resolution is up to 4Kx2K and supports 1080P 3D.
It is used with HDBaseT transmitter to extend video signal; the transmission
distance can be up to 70 meters at 1080P, or 40 meters at 4Kx2K.
Features 4 RS232 ports for two-way RS232 pass-through.
The RS232 baud rate supports 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600,115200.
Supports 4 external stereo audio inputs and audio channel control.
Note: When the 4I-BT input card is used with the 1080P output card, the video
resolution must be set to 1080P to ensure reliable output.
4K HDBaseT output card with 4 HDBT, 4 RS232 and 4 external stereo audio ports.
4O-BT
Supports HDBT 1.0 and HDCP 1.4.
Output resolution is up to 4Kx2K and supports 1080P 3D.
It is used with HDBaseT receiver to extend video signal, the transmission distance
can up to 70 meters at 1080P, or 40 meters at 4Kx2K.
Features 4 RS232 ports for two-way RS232 pass-through.
The RS232 baud rate supports 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600,115200.
Supports 4 external stereo audio outputs and audio channel control.

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How the indicators work:
Color
Definition
Status
Yellow Power LED
The LED illuminates yellow when power is
applied.
Green Link LED
The LED illuminates green when the port is
successfully connected to other device via CAT6
cable.
Pin layout of the HDBT connector:
Pin
Color
1
orange white
2
orange
3
green white
4
blue
5
blue white
6
green
7
brown white
8
brown
1st Group
4--5
2nd Group
1--2
3rd Group
3--6
4th Group
7--8
Note: Cable connectors MUST be metal, and the shielded layer of cable MUST be
connected to the connector’s metal shell for grounding purposes.

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2.3.5 4I-BTS & 4O-BTS
1080P seamless HDBaseT input card with 4 HDBT, 4 RS232 and 4 external stereo
audio ports.
4I-BTS
Supports seamless switching, it can be used in combination with other seamless
output signal card.
Supports HDBT1.0 and HDCP 1.3.
Supports input resolution selection, the default is 1920x1080P@60Hz.
It is used with HDBaseT transmitter to extend video signal; the transmission
distance can be up to 70 meters at 1080P.
Supports image brightness, contrast, chrominance, sharpness, color temperature,
aspect ratio, and image mode setting.
Features 4 RS232 ports for two-way RS232 pass-through.
The RS232 baud rate supports 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600,115200.
Supports 4 external stereo audio inputs and audio channel control.
1080P seamless HDBaseT output card with 4 HDBT, 4 RS232 and 4 external
stereo audio ports.
4O-BTS
Supports seamless switching and it can be used in combination with other
seamless input signal card.
Supports HDBT 1.0 and HDCP 1.3.
Supports output resolution selection, the default is 1920x1080P@60Hz.
It is used with HDBaseT receiver to extend video signal; the transmission distance
can be up to 70 meters at 1080P.
Features 4 RS232 ports for two-way RS232 pass-through.
The RS232 baud rate supports 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600,115200.
Supports 4 external stereo audio outputs and audio channel control.

ALF-MMX88A-N
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3. System Connection
3.1. Usage Precautions
Ensure all components and accessories are included before installation.
System should be installed in a clean environment with adequate temperature and
humidity.
All of the power switches, plugs, sockets, and power cords should be insulated and
safe.
All devices should be connected before powering on.
3.2. Connection Diagram
Note: All the input and output signal cards do not support hot-swop, but the physical
input and output ports on the signal cards support hot-plug.
PC
PC
HDTV
IR Emitter
Transmitter
BlueRay
VGA:
DVI:
HDMI:
HDMI TP:
Projector
RS232
control panel

ALF-MMX88A-N
14
4. Button Control
The Matrix can be controlled via the front panel buttons. Here is a brief operation guide.
Format: “Input Channel” + “Switch Mode” +“Output Channel”
Note:
“Switch Mode”:
AV: Switch AV signal from AV signal card and audio signal from audio card
synchronously.
Video: Switch AV signal from AV signal card.
Audio: Switch audio signal from audio card.
“Input Channel”: Fill with the number of input channel to be controlled.
“Output Channel”: Fill with the number of output channels to be controlled. Press
“All” to select all the outputs.
The input / output channels on the rear panel are counting from left to right, top to
bottom.
The input delay time between two numbers of every input and output channel must
be less than 5 seconds; otherwise, the operation will be cancelled.
Example:
To switch input 1 to output 1, press input “1”, output “1”.
To switch signals from input 1 to all output channels, press buttons in this order: “1”,
“All”.
Functional Buttons:
UNDO: Return to the previous status
Example: Input 6 is connecting with output 6, press input “6” + “AV”+ output 4 to change
the connection. Press “Undo” to enable input 6 to reconnect with output 6.
: When pressing buttons “1”, “AV”, “2”, “” in order, then “2” will be canceled.
THROUGH: Get straight I/O connection, e.g., input 1 output 1, input 2 output
2.
Press “Input Channel” + “Through”
Example: If you press buttons “ALL”, “THROUGH” in order, then the result will be like
input 1 output 1, input 2 output 2, input 3 output 3 … input 8 output 8.

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5. IR Remote Control
The matrix can be controlled via the remote controller. As the function buttons on the IR
remote are the same as the ones on the front panel, the IR remote shares the same
operations and commands with the control panel.
Press the buttons under below format:
“Input Channel” + “Switch Mode” + “Output Channel”
Input channel buttons,
including 1~10+
Menu buttons, including
switching buttons and
function buttons
Output channel buttons,
including 1~10+
Input channel buttons,
including 1~10+, only
1~8 is available.
Menu buttons, including
switching buttons and
function buttons.
Output channel buttons,
including 1~10+, only
1~8 is available