Altinex MAX Series User manual

MATRIX SWITCHERS
MANUAL PART NUMBER: 400-0047-004
PRODUCT REVISION: 2
MAX SERIES
MATRIX SWITCHERS
USER’S GUIDE

MATRIX SWITCHERS
1
INTRODUCTION
Altinex appreciates your purchase of the MAX
Series Matrix Switcher. We are sure you will find it a
reliable and useful product.
Superior performance for the right price backed by
solid technical and customer support is what we
have to offer.
The product you are holding in your hands is
designed using state-of-the-art technology and is
superior to anything available on the market. You
will find this and our other products reliable, long
lasting, and simple to operate.
We are committed to providing our customers with
solutions to the most demanding audio-visual
installations at very competitive pricing.
We appreciate your selection of our products and
are confident that you will join the ranks of our
many satisfied customers throughout the world.
This manual covers:
MXAxxyy – VmAn
MXVxxyy – VmAn
MXRxxyy – VmAn
where
MXA Audio (Mono / Stereo) switcher
MXV Video (Composite, S-Video &
Component) switcher, with 100 MHz
bandwidth
MXR Video (High resolution RGsB, RGBS,
RGBHV) switcher, with 400 MHz
bandwidth
xx number of inputs per each of MAX
switcher module, xx-04/08
yy number of outputs per each channel
MAX switcher module, yy-02/04
mnumber of channels of video signals in
the switcher, m = 1 to 5
nnumber of channel of audio signals in
the switcher, n = 1/2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
PRECAUTIONS/SAFETY WARNINGS..................2
GENERAL ..........................................................2
INSTALLATION..................................................2
RACK-MOUNT INSTALLATION .........................2
CLEANING.........................................................2
FCC NOTICE......................................................2
ABOUT YOUR MAX SERIES MATRIX
SWITCHER ...........................................................3
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION ..............................3
DIAGRAM OF FRONT/BACK PANEL....................4
BACK PANEL CONTROL...................................5
H & V SYNC, COMPOSITE SYNC.....................5
AUDIO PORTS (L&R).........................................5
RS-232 PORTS 1&2...........................................5
APPLICATION DIAGRAM......................................6
INSTALLING YOUR SWITCHER...........................9
OPERATION..........................................................9
FRONT PANEL CONTROL ................................9
RS–232 PROGRAMMING AND CONTROL .....12
PROJECTOR CONTROL .................................17
WINDOWS BASED CONTROL
SOFTWARE.....................................................18
IR-CONTROL MODE........................................19
CABLES AND ACCESSORIES............................20
FAQ (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS) .......20
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE.............................21
ALTINEX POLICY................................................22
LIMITED WARRANTY......................................22
RETURN POLICY.............................................22
CONTACT INFORMATION ..............................22

MATRIX SWITCHERS
2
PRECAUTIONS/SAFETY WARNINGS 1
Please read this manual carefully before using your
MAX Series Matrix Switcher. Keep this manual
handy for future reference. These safety
instructions are to ensure the long life of your MAX
Series Switcher and to prevent fire and shock
hazard. Please read them carefully and heed all
warnings.
1.1 GENERAL
•Unauthorized personnel shall not open the unit
since there are high-voltage components inside.
•Qualified Altinex service personnel, or their
authorized representatives must perform all
service.
1.2 INSTALLATION
•For best results, place the MAX Series Switcher
on a flat, level surface in a dry area, away from
dust and moisture. To prevent fire or shock, do
not expose this unit to rain or moisture. Do not
place the MAX Switcher in direct sunlight, near
heaters or heat radiating appliances, or near
any liquid. Exposure to direct sunlight, smoke,
or steam can harm internal components.
•Handle your MAX Switcher carefully. Dropping
or jarring can damage the internal components.
Do not place heavy objects on top of the MAX
Switcher.
•Do not place the MAX Switcher in direct
sunlight, near heaters or heat radiating
appliances, or near any liquid. Exposure to
direct sunlight, smoke or steam can harm
internal components. Do not pull power cord or
any signal cables that are attached to the MAX.
If the MAX is not to be used for an extended
period of time, disconnect the power cord from
the power outlet.
1.3 RACK-MOUNT INSTALLATION
•Use only Altinex supplied rack-mount ears for
mounting the MAX Switcher into a rack.
•The maximum operating ambient temperature is
45 degrees Centigrade.
•When installing the MAX Series Switcher into a
rack, distribute individual units evenly, otherwise
hazardous conditions may be created by an
uneven weight distribution. Allow 1-U of rack
space for every four MAX Switcher modules for
air circulation. This will reduce heat build up and
will prolong the life of the MAX Switcher.
•Connect the MAX Series Switcher to a properly
rated power outlet.
•Reliable Earthling of the MAX Series Switcher
should be maintained by connecting using the
provided 3-prong power cord only. Furthermore,
make sure that the rack is properly grounded.
1.4 CLEANING
•Unplug the MAX Series Switcher’s power cord
before cleaning.
•Clean surfaces with a dry cloth. Never use
strong detergents or solvents such as, alcohol
or thinner. Do not use a wet cloth or water to
clean the unit.
1.5 FCC NOTICE
•This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference that may cause
undesired operation.
•This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and if
not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation
of this equipment in a residential area is likely to
cause harmful interference in which case the
user will be required to correct the interference
at his own expense.
•Any changes or modifications to the unit not
expressly approved by Altinex, Inc. could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

MATRIX SWITCHERS
3
ABOUT YOUR MAX SERIES MATRIX
SWITCHER 2
The Altinex MAX Series Matrix Switchers are
designed to route multiple computers or video
sources to multiple display devices in a wide range
of audio/visual installations.
The MAX Series line of matrix switchers is available
in the following sizes: 4x2, 4x4, 8x2, 8x4. The
bandwidth of 100 MHz is available for composite
video, s-video & components switching and 400
MHz for high-resolution video RGB switching.
The versatility of the MAX Series Switcher allows
Altinex to deliver the perfect matrix switcher to fit
your audio visual needs.
The MAX Series Matrix Switcher is designed for
ease of use and flexibility of operation, allowing a
non-technical person to perform intuitively all
switching functions using the front panel control. It
offers extensive and powerful capabilities to the
advanced user through RS-232 control.
Some of the unique features of the MAX Series
Switcher include high bandwidth, Projector control
capabilities, Sync Delay Switching (allows the
“glitch” to take place off the display screen, dual
RS-232 port and easy to use Front Panel control.
With all these exceptional features, the MAX Series
is the perfect solution for your audio/visual
equipment needs.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION 3
FEATURES/
DESCRIPTION MXR MXV MXA
GENERAL
Inputs
BNC (F) (Video) x x
5-position Terminal
Block (Audio) x x x
Coupling DC DC DC
Outputs
BNC (F) (Video) x x
5-position Terminal
Block (Audio) x x x
Coupling DC DC DC
MECHANICAL
Material 0.47’ thick Aluminum
Height (inches) 5.25in (133mm)
Width (inches) 17.00in (432mm)
Length (inches) 9.50in (241mm)
Weight (pounds) 11.0lbs
(5.0kg) 8.0lbs (3.6kg) 7.0lbs (3.2kg)
Ship Weight
(pounds) 16.0lbs (7.3kg) 13.0lbs (5.9kg) 12.0lbs (5.4kg)
ELECTRICAL
Video Signals
(Inputs & Outputs)
RGBHV x— —
RGBS x— —
RGsB x— —
Component Video x x —
C-Video x x —
S-Video x x —
Audio xxx
Frequency
Compatibility
Bandwidth (MHz) 400MHz 100MHz 100 kHz
Rise Time (ns) 1.2ns 3.1ns —
Fall Time (ns) 1.2ns 3.1ns —
Gain Default
Setting 1.05 1.05 6dB
Output impedance 75ohms 75ohms 10ohms
Input Video Level +/-1 V
max +/-1 V max Line level
Input Sync Level TTL or
Analog — —
Internal Power
Supply 90- 260V
Power
Consumption 10-15W 30W max
Adjustments/
Controls
Front Panel x
RS-232 ( 2 ports) x
Supply through RS-
232 port1 (+5V) 100 mA max
Supply through RS-
232 port2 (+12V) 100 mA max
Included
Manual x
Rack Mount
Brackets
DA1296RM
x

MATRIX SWITCHERS
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Power Cord x
5-position Terminal
Connector x
4-position Terminal
Connector x
DIAGRAM OF FRONT/BACK PANEL 4

MATRIX SWITCHERS
5
4.1 BACK PANEL CONTROL
The MAX Series Matrix Switcher offers great
flexibility in configuring the switcher. Each portion
of the signal can be controlled independently or
in any desired grouping. This allows use of the
switcher with a variety of signal formats, and
allows multiple independent switchers in one
enclosure. For example, MXR0804-V3A0 can be
used as three 8x4 Composite Video Switchers or
as one 8x4 Composite Video with one 8x4 S-
Video Switcher.
4.2 H & V SYNC, COMPOSITE SYNC
The horizontal and vertical sync ports are
designed to handle TTL and Analog Sync
signals. The two sync ports will switch
simultaneously when controlled separately from
video ports. The independent control of video
and sync portions of the signal allows use of the
sync delay switching function. The delay in
switching between video and sync insures noise-
free (glitch-free) switching between any
channels.
4.3 AUDIO PORTS (L&R)
The MAX Series Matrix Switcher is available with
either mono or stereo balanced audio inputs and
outputs for clear quality sound. The terminal
block connectors used for Audio simplify the
connection of the Audio signal.
4.4 RS-232 PORTS 1&2
The MAX Series Matrix Switcher is equipped
with two RS-232 ports. This allows control of the
switcher from two different locations. The RS-
232 ports can be used to control other devices,
such as projectors, by the switcher. The front
panel switches can be programmed to activate
RS-232 commands to be sent to the projector.

MATRIX SWITCHERS
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The computer video signal can be RGsB, RGBS, or
RGBHV format. The broadcast video signal can be
C-Video, S-Video, or Component Video in NTSC,
PAL or SECAM standard. The audio signal can be
Mono or Stereo.
Depending on the signal and size configuration of
the MAX Switcher, the back panel of the switchers
will be different. Here are examples of an 8x4 MAX
switcher for different number of signals.
APPLICATION DIAGRAM 5

MATRIX SWITCHERS
7

MATRIX SWITCHERS
8

MATRIX SWITCHERS
9
INSTALLING YOUR SWITCHER 6
Step 1. Connect the power entry connector of
the MAX Switcher to the power outlet
with the provided power cord. The power
supply is universal and will work
throughout the world with voltages
between 90V-260V.
Step 2. Connect the cables from the video
sources (computers, VCR, others) to
available inputs 1 through 8 and connect
the display device (i.e. monitor or
projector) to available outputs 1 through
4.
CAUTION:
All video inputs to MAX Series are DC coupled
for best performance. Even though the video
inputs are fully isolated, verify with an
electrician that all of the grounding is proper
and that GROUND LOOP problems are
minimized. Severe Ground loop type
conditions can damage equipment.
MAXIMUM VIDEO INPUT: +/-1.2 VOLTS
MAXIMUM AUDIO/SYNC INPUT: +/- 5 VOLTS
Step 3. If a control system is used to control the
unit, connect the RS-232 port of the
MAX Switcher to the control system’s
RS-232 port as show in Table 1.
RS-232 port of MAX
switcher Computer or Control System
Tx ( Transmit) Receive
Rx (Receive) Transmit
GND (Ground) Ground
+12V / +5V N/C
Table 1. MAX Switcher RS-232 port control
Make sure that the transmit pin of the
control system is connected to the
receive pin of the switcher.
Test the units outside of the rack prior to
installation to insure that you have
established communication.
If the connection is correct, both Rx & Tx
LED’s (located below contact pins) on
the selected RS-232 port will turn green.
If the connection is incorrect, LED’s will
turn red.
Step 4. Turn on the power switch. The unit is
now operational. You should observe the
power LED on the back panel “ON” and
the VIDEO or AUDIO switch LED light
on the front panel “ON”. You are ready
to either program your switcher or
perform switching from the front panel.
CONGRATULATIONS! YOU ARE DONE.
OPERATION 7
7.1 FRONT PANEL CONTROL
The MAX Series Matrix Switcher is designed to
perform a variety of functions using the front
panel control. All front panel switches have three
modes of operation: PRESS and RELEASE,
PRESS and HOLD and Power ON.
In PRESS and RELEASE mode the switcher
performs primary functions. Simply press and
release the button right after a beep. An LED
usually verifies the action.
If you experience any problems, please call
1-800-258-4623 or 1 [phone] for
international calls.

MATRIX SWITCHERS
10
In PRESS and HOLD mode the switcher
performs secondary functions. Press and hold
the button until all LED’s flash and the unit beeps
a second time.
In POWER-ON mode the switcher changes
settings that are stored in the switcher’s memory.
These modified settings become the default
settings next time the unit is powered.
The LED lights located next to any switch on the
front panel of the switcher have four basic states
of operation: OFF, ON, SLOW FLASH, and
FAST FLASH. Each state represents certain
actions that can be taken by the operator.
When the LED is OFF or ON the switcher is in a
Normal Mode and no action by the operator is
required.
When the LED’s SLOW FLASH or FAST FLASH
the switcher is in a Set-Up Mode.
The SLOW FLASH indicates that a particular set
up action can be either completed or canceled.
If the lights are in a FAST FLASH state, it is an
indication of what is actually connected and that
an action is required to perform switching.
Whenever switching is to be initiated, the
switcher must be in a Normal Mode. The Input
and Output LED’s should be either ON or OFF.
The number of input switches will be according
to your matrix configuration. The remaining
switches will only be usable for the secondary
functions. For example, in a 4x4 switcher all 8
input switches might be present, but only 4 are
active for Input Selection, while all 8 can be used
for secondary functions.
CONNECT INPUT TO OUTPUT
To connect any input to any output press
sequentially [INPUT (n)] +[OUTPUT (m)]. This
function can also be performed by pressing
[OUTPUT (m)]+[INPUT (n)]. When you press
INPUT(n) the LED next to that input switcher
will SLOW FLASH indicating that the operation
is not completed and a particular action is
required. Pressing the desired OUTPUT(m)
switch will complete the operation. When the
connection is made both the INPUT and
OUTPUT LED’s will be ON.
For example, to display the signal from a
source connected to input 3 on the monitors
and connected to outputs 1 and 3 press:
INPUT3 + OUTPUT1 & INPUT3 + OUTPUT3
or OUTPUT1 + INPUT3 & OUTPUT3 +
INPUT3
SAVING SWITCHER CONFIGURATION IN
MEMORY
Once it is defined which outputs are connected
to which inputs, the switcher configuration can
be stored in one of the eight available
memories.
To store the switcher configuration, press
INPUT 1 through 8, and hold the button until all
LED’s flash and the unit beeps. By doing this a
preset or salvo of input to output connections is
stored into the memory location for a later
recall.
BAUD RATE SETTING
The BAUD RATE setting is important for the
remote control function of the switcher, through
RS-232 ports.
The factory default setting is 2400 baud, 8 bits,
1 stop, and no parity.
To change to 1200 baud rate, press and hold
the Input1 key and turn the power ON. Then
wait for a long and short beep.
To change to 2400 baud rate, press and hold
the Input2 key and turn the power ON. Then
wait for a long and short beep.
To change to 4800 baud rate, press and hold
the Input3 key and turn the power ON. Then
wait for a long and short beep.
To change to 9600 baud rate, press and hold
the Input4 key and turn the power ON. Then
wait for a long and short beep.
SET UNIT SYNC DELAY FUNCTION
Sync delay allows the MAX Switcher to delay
the switching by a specified time after the
commands are issued to switcher. The power
up at factory reset default function is for NO
SYNC DELAY.

MATRIX SWITCHERS
11
Press and hold Input 5 and turn the power ON.
Then wait for long and short beep to set the No
sync delay function.
Press and hold Input 6 and turn the power ON.
Then wait for long and short beep to set a 5-
second sync delay.
Press and hold Input 7 and turn the power ON.
Then wait for long and short beep to set a 2-
second sync delay.
Other sync delay values can be programmed
into the switcher using RS-232 control
commands.
IR CONTROL
The MAX Switcher can be equipped with an
optional RC5251IR, Infra-Red Remote Control.
To have the MAX Switcher recognize the Infra-
Red Remote Control Receiver attached to RS-
232 port1, please press and hold the IR-
Control key (INPUT section key#8) while
turning the power ON. The switcher will beep a
couple of times and an ON LED next to IR-
Control key will verify that theMAX Switcher is
ready to be controlled by RC5251IR. To
disable the IR-mode, the switcher has to be
reset.
SET UNIT ID NUMBER
When the same control equipment or PC
controls more than one MAX Switcher, then it
is convenient to address each MAX Switcher
separately by RS-232 commands, by assigning
different unit ID numbers.
Press and hold Output 1 and turn the power
ON. Then wait for a long and short beep to set
the unit ID to 1. If the unit ID is 1 then MAX
Switcher responds to all commands that are
sent.
To set the unit ID to 2, press and hold the
OUTPUT2 key while turning the power ON.
Wait for a long and short beep, to allow the unit
ID to change to 2.
Press and hold Output 3 and turn power ON.
Then wait for long and short beep to set the
unit ID to 3.
Press and hold Output 4 and turn power ON,
then wait for long and short beep to set the unit
ID to 4.
RECALL PRE-SET MEMORY
If any connection configuration of inputs to
outputs is stored into the switcher’s memory, it
can be recalled using this option. To switch to
RECALL mode, press and hold the RECALL
key in switcher/projector control section on the
bottom right corner of the front panel. The unit
beeps once and all input switch LEDs will flash.
Select the memory location to recall from 1
through 8. After the selection, all stored input
to output connections will be restored.
SELECT SIGNAL
AUDIO & VIDEO keys allow break away
switching of the audio and video signals
through the front panel.
By selecting AUDIO and deselecting VIDEO,
only the audio portion of the input and output
channels will change by subsequent
input/output connections. If the AUDIO switch
is de-selected and only the VIDEO switch is
selected, the audio portion of the signal will not
change with subsequent connections.
Normally, both the AUDIO and VIDEO switches
are selected and both LED’s are ON to provide
Audio-follow-Video switching.
STATUS
When the STATUS key is pressed and held,
the Front Panel will show system settings of
the MAX Switcher such as Baud rate, Unit ID,
SYNC Delay time, and IR-Control Status.
SOUND
This switch is used to enable/disable audible
response (beep), whenever any key is pressed
on the Front Panel. The default is SOUND on.
To disable Sound (Beep), press and hold the
SOUND key for approximately 2 seconds until
all LED’s flash. The sound function is now
disabled. This is a toggle function, so to enable
the sound, repeat the same step.

MATRIX SWITCHERS
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RESET
To reset the switcher to its factory default
setting, press [VIDEO] and hold it until all
LED’s flash.
When the switcher is reset:
-Baud rate is changed to 2400 bps.
-Unit ID is selected to 1.
-IR-Control mode is disabled.
-Sync Delay is set to None.
-All stored memories are cleared.
LOCK / UNLOCK FRONT PANEL
Sometimes it is advantageous to disable the
front panel control to ensure that it is not being
operated while the remote control is being
performed or to avoid accidental changes in
system settings/configuration of the switcher by
a curious user. Press the [STATUS] key and
HOLD until the LED flashes. The front panel is
now disabled. To enable front panel, press
[STATUS] key and HOLD it until the LED’s
flash. Now the front panel is enabled.
7.2 RS–232 PROGRAMMING AND CONTROL
The MAX Series has many advanced remote
control capabilities, which are accessible through
standard RS-232 ports through terminal block
connectors provided on the back panel. The
MAX Switcher can be controlled through a
computer or control system.
7.2.1 RS-232 PROTOCOL
The Standard RS-232 protocol for the MAX
Series Matrix Switcher uses simple ASCII
character format.
The RS-232 input has a 16-character buffer
and will not execute any additional commands
until the previous command is fully processed.
After processing a valid command an [OK]
string will be returned followed by command
echo. For example, the [RSET] command will
return [OK][RSET]. Version number command,
[VERN] will return the firmware version of the
switcher, without [OK] such as [1.0]. If a
command is not recognized an [ERR] string will
be returned.
The RS-232 commands are divided into two
groups: Programming & Control.
7.2.2 PROGRAMMING COMMANDS
NOTE: These programming commands are
used for setting defaults and
configuring the switcher. It should not
be used as a part of a program to
operate the switcher. The
programming setting changes done
through these commands are stored in
non-volatile memory. Typically these
commands can be issued 10,000
times before the memory needs to be
replaced.
[SETIDn]
n= Unit ID number 0-9, A-Z, a-z
This command sets a unique ID number to
each MAX Switcher and allows control of
multiple modules through a single RS-232 port.
Setting unit ID allows a user to send a
command to multiple modules, but the
command is processing by module with the
indicated ID number only.
The unit ID can be any number or any other
ASCII alphanumeric character. A total of 62
unit ID numbers are available. If the unit ID is
set to 1 then all switchers will always
communicate. From the factory all new units
are shipped with unit ID number 1. When the
MAX is powered "ON" the default unit ID
number is 1 regardless of the actual unit ID
setting. If the ID level is set to 0, then the unit
will not respond to any command other than
[SETIDn].
1. SQUARE BRACKETS ARE PART OF THE
COMMAND.
2. USE UPPERCASE LETTERS FOR ALL
COMMANDS.
3. PLEASE PUT A 50 ms DELAY BETWEEN
TWO CONSECUTIVE COMMANDS.

MATRIX SWITCHERS
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The [SETIDn] command is used for
programming the switcher; it should not be
used as a part of a program to operate the
switcher.
[CODEn]
n=1 - Use [ ] as start and end code
n=2 - Use ( ) as start and end code
n=3 - Use {} as start and end code
n=4 - Use :; as start and end code
n=5 - Use <> as start and end code
n=6 - Use : \ as start and end code
Default n=1
Through this command start and end code
(command delimiters) for RS-232 control,
command strings can be defined. This
command can be used for controlling the
switcher using different start and end codes.
This is an extremely powerful command and
can be used to control multiple switchers
individually from a single RS-232 control card
or PC.
For example, one switcher can be set to have
square brackets “[ ]” as the start and end code
though the [CODE1] command. The other
switcher is set to have round brackets “( )” as
start and end though the [CODE2] command.
To control the first switcher the command
would be [I02O03], but the same command to
control a second switcher would be (I02O03).
If codes are used to identify and control
individual units, then some general commands
which do not include unit ID no. in them can be
easily issued. For example, each unit can be
reset individually using the following
commands: [RSET] and (RSET).
[InnOmmS]
nn - Input Number 01 to 08
mm- Output Number 01 to 04
Set the maximum number of inputs and
outputs used on the MAX Switcher. This
command is used at the factory at the time of
set up. If the maximum number of inputs is set
to 4, then input buttons 5,6,7, and 8 will not
work. Once programmed this setting remains
in effect even after power is turned on or off.
This command is used for programming the
switcher. It should not be used as a part of a
program to operate the switcher.
[InnOmmA]
nn - Input Number 00 to 96
mm- Output Number 00 to 96
This command defines the offset for inputs and
outputs of a MAX Switcher. This command is
used when the number of inputs or outputs on
the switcher needs to be expanded. This
command allows continuous numbering of
inputs and outputs as the number of inputs and
outputs is increased. For example, if a 12 by 8
matrix switcher is made using two MAX 8x4
switchers, this command will allow you to
arrange inputs end outputs so a command like
[I12O04] is recognized. In this case the first
switcher will have the offset of inputs and
outputs set to zero by the [I00O00A] command
and the second switcher will have input offset 8
through the [I08O00A] command.
With this offset command, a matrix switcher
can build with a size up to 96x96. This
command is used for programming the
switcher. It should not be used as a part of a
program to operate the switcher.
[IkkOnnL]
nn – loop offset number 00 to 08
kk – any number from 00 to 99
This command is used when looping several
switchers together to increase the number of
inputs. The input offset will be the same as the
number of the last input of the previous unit
and it is sent to the switcher through the
[IkkOnnL] command. After programming
looped units, they can be controlled by a single
command, [IxxOyy] where xx is any number
from 01 to 99. Without this loop command
capability, units can be controlled with the
[IxxOyy] command but if several commands
are sent there will be a delay between two
consecutive commands. To avoid problems,
make sure that the following steps are taken:

MATRIX SWITCHERS
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1. The number of outputs must be the same
on all units to be looped.
2. Output offset is zero for all units.
3. The input offset must be set for all units
except for the first one. The offset for the
input should be the same as the last
number of the previous unit
4. The number of inputs available on the
second unit for a direct connection is the
difference between the maximum number
of inputs of the second unit, and the
number of looped outputs.
5. Set the loop offset separately for each unit.
The loop offset is zero for the first unit. For
other units the loop offset is the number of
outputs of the previous unit.
Example: If the user wants to create a 12x4
switcher, use two 8x4 matrix switchers.
Connect output 1 through 4 of the first unit to
the last four inputs of a second unit in
increasing order. Please program each MAX
Switcher individually using the following table:
PARAMETER UNIT A UNIT B
Size [I08O04S] [I08O04S]
Offset [I00O00A] [I08O00A]
Loop
Command [I00O00L] [I00O04L]
Now if you send the commands as follows, the
active connectors will be as follows on both
units:
COMMAND UNIT A
Connection UNIT B Connection
[I02O02] 2 - 2 14 - 2
[I09O04] 9 - 4 16 - 4
[16O04] 16 - 4 16 - 4
[17O01] NONE –1 1 - 1
[128O04] NONE – 4 12 - 4
[129O03] NONE - 3 NONE - 3
[SDELnn]
nn - value from 00 to 99, Sync delay
time in multiple of 65 ms.
This command sets Sync delay time in 65ms
increments. The sync delay can be set to a
minimum of none or to a maximum of 6.4
seconds. The sync delay function is useful to
avoid an unwanted image (a glitch) that
appears on the projector or monitor screen
when switching between different sources of
different signal resolutions. Typically, a 0.5
seconds delay will clean up the image on most
of the displays during the switching. Keep in
mind that making the sync delay too long will
require the user to wait before implementing
the next command until the prior command is
executed. When specifying sync delay, capital
letters A through F also can be used to get a
longer delay. For example, [SDELFF] will
provide almost 19 seconds of delay.
n=00 corresponds to no Sync delay
n=08 corresponds to 0.5 second delay
n=38 corresponds to 2.5 second delay.
n=99 will set Sync delay of 6.4 second
[VERN]- Version
This command will return the current version of
the firmware used on the switcher. It does not
require the feedback command to return the
feedback. For example if [VERN] is typed, the
feedback of [3.2] will return from the MAX
switcher.

MATRIX SWITCHERS
15
[RSET]
This command resets or initializes the switcher
to the power-on condition. With this command,
the baud rate is changed to 2400 bps, all
current inputs from outputs are disconnected,
unit ID number is set to 1, memory number 1 is
recalled, and all levels (VIDEO & AUDIO) are
enabled.
[BAUDn] n=1(31hex) 300 baud
n=2(32hex) 600 baud
n=3(33hex) 1200 baud
n=4(34hex) 2400 baud
n=5(35hex) 4800 baud
n=6(36hex) 9600 baud
This command switches the MAX Switcher into
different baud rates. The factory default baud
rate setting is for 2400 bps.
The same code for baud rate is used to control
projectors from the MAX Series Switcher.
When controlling other devices, the MAX
Series has the ability to output RS-232
commands at a specified baud rate yet still be
controlled by a fixed baud rate control system.
For example, if you need to control projector
using 2400 baud and your control system
operates at 9600 baud, you can program the
MAX Switcher to output commands at 2400
baud rate and receive them at 9600 baud.
[BEEPn]
n=1 Beeper ON
n=0 Beeper OFF
This command allows the beep sound to be
turned ON or OFF on the MAX Series
Switcher, which is generated while pressing a
key on the front panel or processing a valid
RS-232 command.
7.2.3 CONTROL COMMANDS.
These control commands are used for
controlling the switcher: they are a part of a
program to operate the switcher. These
command actions are lost if power to the unit is
lost or if the unit is reset in any way.
[UIDn]
n = unit ID number 0-9, A-Z, a-z
This command is used to enable all switchers,
disable all switchers or enable individual
switchers with specific unit ID numbers.
n=0 All units with IDs 0-9, A-Z, a-z are
disabled and only respond to
another [UIDn] command. This
allows pass-through control of other
RS-232 devices on the same RS-232
line without effecting the MAX.
n=1 All units with IDs 0-9, A-Z, and a-z
are enabled and respond to any of
the RS-232 commands. This allows
simultaneous control of all MAX’s
connected to the same RS-232 port.
n=2 through 9, A through Z, a through z
Enables an individual MAX Switcher.
This command does not disable any
units.
For example, if [UID3] is issued followed by
[UID2] then both units 3 and 2 will respond to
the issued commands. To disable all switchers
and enable any particular switcher, issue
[UID0] followed by [UIDn] of the switcher that
needs to be enabled.
[SELn]
n=0 Control all channels together
[VIDEO+AUDIO]
n=1 Control Red
n=2 Control Green
n=3 Control Blue
n=4 Control H–Sync and V-Sync
n=5 Control Audio Right
n=6 Control Audio Left
n=7 Control Audio Right and Left (Audio
channels)
n=8 Control Red, Green, and Blue
n=9 Control Red, Green, Blue, and H
and V Sync (Video channels)

MATRIX SWITCHERS
16
This command allows control of each signal
level independently. Once issued it is active
until another [SELn] command is issued or the
front panel is used to control the switcher.
When the front panel is used, the levels to be
controlled are defined by the front panel
selections. The front panel allows only 3
options of controlling channels; either AUDIO
or VIDEO or AUDIO+VIDEO. It is not
recommended to use the RS-232 control and
the front panel at the same time to control
different channels since front panel will
override RS-232 controls.
The LEDs on the back of the unit display the
status of a particular level. The RED LED
indicates that this level is not enabled for
controlling. The GREEN LED indicates that this
level is currently enabled for controlling.
During the power ON the MAX automatically
defaults to n=0 (Control all channels).
[SELnUx]
n = Same as above
This command works the same as above
except for specific unit ID number. This
command allows selection of levels (channels)
on switchers that have been assigned unique
unit ID numbers.
[InnOmm]
nn - input number 01 to 08 ( if input
number 00 is used, that input is
disconnected from the selected
output)
mm- output number 01 to 04
This command connects Input to Output and
switches them immediately.
For example, if you want to connect input 2 to
output 1 and switch, the command to be issued
will be: [I02O01]. Command [I00O01] will
disconnect output 1 from any input.
[InnOmmP]
nn - input number 01 to 08 ( if input
number 00 is used that input is
disconnected from the selected
output)
mm- output number 01 to 04
P- path
This command sets the switching path of
connecting an input to an output but does not
switch.
Through this command input to output
connections are loaded (path is set), but not
switched until [SW] or [SWUx] commands or a
direct connection command of [IxxOmm] is
sent.
For example, if you want to connect input 2 to
output 1 and not switch it, the command to be
issued will be: [I02O01P]
A typical sequence would look like this:
[I01O02P][I04O01P][I08O03P][I05O04P][SW]
or [I01O02P][I04O01P][I08O03P][I05O04].
[InnOmmUx]
xx Input number 01 to 08
yy Output number 01 to 04
nUnit ID number 0-9, A-Z, a-z
This command allows any input to be
connected immediately to any output on aMAX
Switcher with a specific unit ID.
For example, if two MAX Switchers are
connected to the same RS-232 port but have
unit IDs set as 3 and 4, the following command
can be issued to independently control each
unit: [I02O04U3][[I04O01U4]. The first
command connects input 2 to output 4 on the
switcher with ID=3 and the second command
connects input 4 to output 1 on the switcher
with ID=4.
[InnOmmUxP]
xx Input number 01 to 08
yy Output number 01 to 04
nUnit ID number 0-9, A-Z, a-z
This command is the same as [InnOmmUx],
however the switching does not occur until
[SWUx] or [SW] or direct connection command
is issued. Through this path command, input to
output connections are loaded, but not
switched.

MATRIX SWITCHERS
17
This command is used to select multiple inputs
and multiple outputs without switching and then
switch them together with a single command.
This is a very useful command for scene or
salvo switching or for controlling through a PC.
If n = 1, units will respond to any command. If
n= 0, then none of the units will respond to any
issued command, except [UIDn].
A typical sequence would look like this:
[I01O02U2P][I04O01U2P][I08O03U3P][I05O04
U4P]. Set the path for three different switchers
with these commands and then switch them all
together with the[SW] command.
[DOxxyyzzkk]
xx - Input connected to output 1
yy - Input connected to output 2
zz - Input connected to output 3
kk - Input connected to output 4
Connect any 4 inputs to any 4 outputs of the
MAX Switcher with a single command. This
command allows a quick way of connecting
inputs and outputs without sending 4
commands with a 50 ms delay between each
command. For example, if input 3 needs to be
connected to outputs 1,2,3,4, then the following
command can be used [DO03030303]. If input
4,5,6,7 need to be connected to outputs
1,2,3,4, then the following command is issued
[DO04050607]. The switching of all inputs
occurs simultaneously for all outputs. If sync
delay is in effect, then it will be used before
switching. Input 00 is used to turn a channel
'OFF'. For example, if you want to disconnect
all channels use following command
[DO00000000]
[DoxxyyzzkkUn]
xx - Input connected to output 1
yy - Input connected to output 2
zz - Input connected to output 3
kk - Input connected to output 4
n - unit ID number 0-9, A-Z, a-z
Connect any 4 inputs to any 4 outputs on a
MAX Switcher with a specific unit ID number.
This command allows quick connection of
inputs and outputs of the specific MAX
Switcher without sending four different
commands with 50 ms delays between each
command. For example, if input 3 needs to be
connected to outputs 1,2,3,4 of the unit with
ID=4, then the following command can be used
[DO03030303U4]. If inputs 4,5,6,7 need to be
connected to outputs 1,2,3,4 on the MAX
switcher with unit ID number 8, then the
following command is issued
[DO04050607U8].
The switching of all inputs occurs
simultaneously for all outputs. If sync delay is
in effect, then it will be used before switching.
The unit ID needs to be set for the switcher
that needs to be controlled before using this
command. Input 00 is used to disconnect
output 1 through 4. For example, if you want to
disconnect all outputs on the MAX Switcher
with unit ID number 2, then use the following
command [DO00000000U2].
[SW]
Immediately switch the inputs to outputs, which
are previously set through path commands.
First set the path using [InnOmmP] or
[InnOmmUxP]. Then issue a single [SW]
command to switch all connections
simultaneously, which are loaded by path
commands. If Sync delay is enabled the [SW]
command will delay switching for that period.
This command is available only when switchers
to be controlled are enabled using [UID1]. This
command is a very useful for scene or salvo
switching or for controlling through a PC.
[SWUx]
x - Unit ID number 0-9, A-Z, and a-z
This command immediately switches inputs to
outputs on a specific switcher with a specified
unit ID number, which is previously set through
a path command.
First the path is set through a [InnOmmUxP]
command and then a single [SWUx] command
is issued to switch all connections
simultaneously. If Sync delay is enabled, the

MATRIX SWITCHERS
18
[SWUx] command will delay switching for that
period.
[FDBKn]
n- 1 enable feedback [OK] or [ERR]
n- 0 disable feedback
This command sets MAX Switchers to provide
feedback code during RS-232 control
operations. Factory default is no feedback.
After [FDBK1] is issued the MAX Series
Switcher will provide an [OK] if the command is
executed properly and [ERR] if the wrong
command is issued. If [FDBK0] is issued the
MAX Switcher will not provide any feedback to
the control system or program.
Since the MAX Series Switcher can control
projectors it is recommended that the feedback
be set to none. This will guarantee that
feedback does not interfere with proper control
of projectors.
[SAVn]
n- memory location number 0 to 8
The MAX Switcher has 8 memory locations to
store a set of connections. Each memory
location stores one preset (scene or salvo),
which is the current connection between inputs
and outputs for active channels of a switcher
with a selected unit ID number.
Memory saved in location no.1 is recalled,
when the MAX Switcher is powered up or
RESET. If only [Sel7] saves the memory
location for the Audio channel, the then
switcher will only recall input to output
connections for those audio channels only. If
the unit is switched using breakaway audio
(video channels only by [SEL9] command),
then input to output connections of video
channels will be loaded.
[RCLn]
n- memory location number 0 to 8
This command will allow the MAX Switcher to
recall any of 8 available memories.
Each memory location stores one preset
(scene or salvo), which is the current
connection between inputs and outputs for
active channels of a switcher with a selected
unit ID number.
Memory saved in location no.1 is recalled,
when the MAX Switcher is powered up or
RESET. If [Sel7] saves the memory location for
the audio channel, then the switcher will only
recall input to output connection for those
audio channels only. If the unit is switched
using breakaway audio (video channels only by
[SEL9] command), then the input to output
connection of video channels will be loaded.
7.4 PROJECTOR CONTROL
A projector can be controlled through both RS-
232 ports or through activity happening on the
front panel. Please note that one port is enabled
at a time, so if the MAX Switcher is used to
control the projector, it cannot be connected to
and controlled by another RS-232 control source,
such as a PC or Control System.
To enable port1 of 1 for projector control, press
the Input1 key and then press the Output1 key
once to enable RS-232 port 1. An ON green LED
next to RS-232 port 1 on the back panel confirms
this.
To enable port1 of 2 for projector control, press
Input2 key and then press Output2 key once to
enable RS-232 port 2. This is conformed by an
ON green LED next to RS-232 port 2 on the
back panel.
Please note that the receive lines on both ports 1
& 2 are always active regardless of the transmit
line. This means that the MAX Switcher can
receive signals from either port, but it can
transmit signals only on one port at a time. Each
RS-232 port on the MAX Switcher can output
commands at a different programmed baud rate.
The output string will be produced, when any
input is selected and followed by output. Please
contact Altinex for programming instructions to
control a projector.
7.5 WINDOWS BASED CONTROL SOFTWARE
This Windows 95/98/NT based Control Software
is available from the Altinex website at
www.altinex.com in the Download section.

MATRIX SWITCHERS
19
7.6 IR-CONTROL MODE
Wired Infra-red Receiver
Step 1. Make sure that the MAX Switcher is in the
OFF position.
Step 2. Plug the 4-position terminal plug located at
the end of the cable into RS-232 Port 1
located on the top-right corner on the
backside of the switcher.
Note: Inserting the 4-positon Terminal
connector on RS-232 port 2 will damage
the receiver.
Step 3. Please put the receiver within a range of
the transmitter and within 30° angle for
optimum operation.
MAX Switcher
To enable the IR mode on the MAX Switcher,
press and hold the IR Control key (INPUT 8)
on the Front Panel while turning on the power
of the unit. The IR mode is now active. The IR
mode remains enabled on the MAX Switcher
until the unit is reset.
Please note:
1. When IR mode is enabled on the MAX
Switcher, neither of the two RS-232 ports
is available for manual control of the
switcher.
2. When IR-Control is enabled for the first
time, the first command sent through the
key will not work since it is used to initialize
the system. However, the MAX Switcher
will execute all subsequent commands.
3. At certain times, when using commands
INPUT 2>OUTPUT 2, the switcher may
switch the RS-232 function to port 2
disabling IR control. Pressing INPUT
1>OUTPUT 1 will not enable port 1 for IR
control again.
4. To cancel the IR control mode on the MAX
Switcher, please reset the unit by pressing
the RESET key for two seconds. The
RESET key is located in the
Projector/Switcher Control section of the
front panel.
5. Please note that once the IR-mode is
canceled, both remote controls through the
RS-232 ports are available in addition to
the manual control through the front panel.
To enable the IR-mode again, follow the
procedure mentioned above.