ASTRO VD-1673 User manual

HDMI Switcher
VD-1673
Instruction Manual
Ver 1.10

HDMISwitcher
VD-1673
Instruction Manual
2009.5
Ver1.10
ASTRODESIGN,Inc

i
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................................ v
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS................................................................................................................................... v
In order to ensure safe operation ............................................................................................................ v
Concerning the power cord ..................................................................................................................... v
Concerning foreign matter....................................................................................................................... v
Concerning this product ..........................................................................................................................vi
Concerning impact ..................................................................................................................................vi
Concerning the installation......................................................................................................................vi
When trouble or malfunctioning has occurred.........................................................................................vi
Concerning the configuration of this manual .....................................................................................................vii
What is packed with the switcher ......................................................................................................................vii
Chapter 1 CONCERNING THE VD-1673 ................................................................................................................ 1
1.1 General description................................................................................................................................. 1
1.2 Features.................................................................................................................................................. 1
1.3 Panel parts and their functions................................................................................................................ 2
1.3.1 Front panel................................................................................................................................... 2
1.3.2 Rear panel ................................................................................................................................... 3
1.4 Sequence of settings............................................................................................................................... 4
1.5 Examples of connections ........................................................................................................................ 5
Chapter 2 CONTROL METHODS (CONTROL MODES)......................................................................................... 7
2.1 Exercising control using the switcher’s front panel switches................................................................... 7
2.1.1 Setting the CONFIGURATION switches ...................................................................................... 7
2.1.2 Control method ............................................................................................................................ 8
2.2 Exercising control using the switcher’s EXT I/F connector...................................................................... 8
2.2.1 Setting the CONFIGURATION switches ...................................................................................... 8
2.2.2 Control method ............................................................................................................................ 9
2.3 Exercising control using a VG series generator .................................................................................... 10
2.3.1 Setting the CONFIGURATION switches .................................................................................... 10
2.3.2 Control method using a VG-870 series generator...................................................................... 10
2.3.3 Control method - VG-849 or 859 series generator..................................................................... 12
Chapter 3 DESCRIPTION OF FUNCTIONS.......................................................................................................... 15
3.1 Output mode ......................................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.1 SELECTION mode..................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.2 DISTRIBUTION mode................................................................................................................ 15
3.2 Input port selection................................................................................................................................ 16
3.3 Output port selection............................................................................................................................. 16
3.4 Pre-emphasis level................................................................................................................................ 16
3.5 Operations during power OFF............................................................................................................... 17

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Chapter 4 PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS.............................................................................................................. 19
4.1 Main specifications................................................................................................................................ 19
4.1.1 Input/output specifications ......................................................................................................... 19
4.1.2 EXT I/F specifications ................................................................................................................ 19
4.1.3 General specifications................................................................................................................ 20
4.2 Connector specifications ....................................................................................................................... 21
4.2.1 HDMI connector specifications .................................................................................................. 21
4.2.2 EXT I/F connector specifications................................................................................................ 22
4.3 Precautions ........................................................................................................................................... 23
Concerning the performance of the VD-1673........................................................................................ 23
Concerning the CONFIGURATION switches ........................................................................................ 23
Concerning the CEC line....................................................................................................................... 23
Concerning the pre-emphasis level....................................................................................................... 23
Concerning the “DISTRIBUTION” output mode .................................................................................... 23

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Updated version history
Ver. Date Page Section no. Description of changes made
1.00 2009/03/16 Initial version
10 2.3.2 Added “Control method - VG-870 series generator.”
23 4.3 Added “Concerning the CONFIGURATION switches.”
1.10 2009/04/07
-- -- Errors corrected, etc.

iv

v
BEFORE OPERATION
INTRODUCTION
Thank you very much for purchasing this HDMI switcher.
This manual contains details on the operation procedures to be followed when the VD-1673 is used, the
checkpoints and precautions to be observed, and so on. Improper handling may result in malfunctioning so
before using the VD-1673, please read through these instructions to ensure that you will operate the switcher
correctly. Keep this manual in a safe place for future reference.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Malfunctioning or trouble may result if this product is not handled properly. Before proceeding to operate the
product, be absolutely sure to read the safety precautions set forth below to ensure proper operation.
In order to ensure safe operation
Do not subject the switcher to impact or throw it. Doing so may cause the
switcher to malfunction, explode or generate abnormally high levels of heat,
possibly resulting in a fire.
Do not use the switcher where there is a danger of ignition or explosions.
Do not place the switcher inside a microwave oven or other heating kitchen
appliance or inside a high pressure vessel. Doing so may heat up the switcher
to abnormally high levels, cause smoking, running the risk of the switcher’s
catching fire and/or damaging the circuit components.
This switcher contains some high-voltage parts. If you touch them, you may
receive an electric shock and burn yourself so do not attempt to disassemble,
repair or remodel the switcher.
If there is a thunderstorm while the switcher is being used outdoors,
immediately turn off its power, disconnect the power cable from the main unit,
and move the switcher to a safe place.
Concerning the power cord
Always take hold of the molded part of the plug when disconnecting the power
cord.
Do not use force to bend the power cord or bunch it up for use. Doing so may
cause a fire.
Do not place heavy objects on top of the power cord. Doing so may damage the
cord, causing a fire or electrical shock.
Concerning foreign matter
Do not spill liquids inside the monitor or drop inflammable objects or metal parts
into it. Operating the switcher under these conditions may cause a fire, electric
shocks and/or malfunctioning.

vi
Concerning this product
When connecting this product to another unit (such as a TV set or DVD player),
use the FG cable provided or a similar cable to connect the frame ground (FG)
terminal on the other unit to the frame ground (FG) terminal on the VD-1673
switcher. Failure to connect these terminals may cause the product to fail or
malfunction.
EX T I/F IN1 IN2 OUT 1 OUT2 OUT3 OUT 4 OUT5 OUT6 OUT 7 OUT8
Fig. Connecting the FG terminals
Concerning impact
This is a precision instrument and, as such, subjecting it to impact may cause
malfunctioning. Take special care when moving the switcher.
Do not drop the switcher.
Concerning the installation
Install the switcher in a stable location. Do not stand the switcher on one of its
sides. Doing so may cause the switcher’s temperature to rise due to heat
generation, possibly resulting in malfunctioning.
When trouble or malfunctioning has occurred
In the unlikely event that trouble or malfunctioning should occur, disconnect the
switcher’s power cable, and contact your dealer or an ASTRODESIGN sales
representative.

vii
Concerning the configuration of this manual
This manual contains the instructions for operating the VD-1673 switcher. It is configured as shown in the table
below, and it describes the control methods, precautions and other aspects. Read through the manual carefully
to ensure that the switcher will be operated properly.
Chapter Description
INTRODUCTION This chapter describes the safety precautions, configuration of the
manual and what is packed with the switcher.
1 CONCERNING THE VD-1673 This chapter gives an overview of the VD-1673 and describes its
features.
2 CONTROL METHODS This chapter describes the methods used to control the VD-1673.
3 DESCRIPTION OF FUNCTIONS This chapter describes the VD-1673’s functions.
4 PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS This chapter describes the VD-1673’s specifications.
What is packed with the switcher
The switcher comes with the following items. Be absolutely sure to use only the genuine accessories which are
supplied with this switcher since the use of any non-designated items may cause malfunctioning.
Standard accessories
Accessory supplied Quantity
VD-1673 main unit 1
VD-1673 instruction manual 1
Power cable 1
FG cable 1

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1
1
1 CONCERNING THE VD-1673
1.1 General description
The model VD-1673 is an HDMI signal switcher which is provided with two HDMI input ports and
eight output ports. It enables the input ports to be switched for TVs which have a multiple number of
HDMI inputs without having to change the cable connections. When it is used together with a
generator in the VG series, it enables the signals of the input ports to be monitored easily.
The switcher makes it possible to distribute the TMDS signals among the HDMI input signals, and
output them when HDCP is not going to be executed.
1.2 Features
HDMI input selection
One of the two HDMI signals supplied to the VD-1673 can be selected and output.
HDMI output selection
Any one of the eight ports for outputting the signals from the VD-1673 can be selected.
HDMI output distribution
When HDCP is not going to be executed, it is possible to distribute the TMDS signals among
the HDMI input signals supplied to the VD-1673, and output them.
Control method selection
Three control methods are available to establish the settings to be used for selecting and
distributing the HDMI input and output signals: The first method exercises control using the
switches on the VD-1673 unit, the second exercises external control (TTL level) from the
general-purpose connectors, and the third exercises external control from a VG series
generator.
Connection with a VG series generator
By using the VD-1673 in combination with a VG series generator, control over the VD-1673 can
be registered as a series of programmed settings in the VG series generator.

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1.3 Panel parts and their functions
1.3.1 Front panel
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
OUTPUT
SELECTSELECT
INPUT
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
21
FRONT SW
EXT I/F
VG
SW No .
SELECTIO N
DIST RIBUT IO N
VG
SW No.
OFF
3
ON
OFF
ON
1
CONTROL OUTPUT 1357
2468
1
2
POWER
|
○
HDMI SWITCHER VD-1673
234 5
1 2345
PRE-EMPHASIS
SW No .56
0dB
3dB
6dB
OFFOFF
OFF
OFF
ON
ON
Fig. Front panel
Table Names of the parts and what they are used for
No. Name of part Description of setting
1 INPUT SELECT switch This is used to select the input ports when “front panel switches”
control has been selected as the control mode.
2 INPUT SELECT LED These indicate the currently selected input port. (The lighted LED
indicates the corresponding port which is currently selected.)
3 OUTPUT SELECT switch This is used to select the output ports when “front panel switch”
control has been selected as the control mode.
4 OUTPUT SELECT LED These indicate the output ports which are currently selected. (The
lighted LEDs indicate the corresponding ports which are currently
selected.)
5 CONFIGURATION switches Refer to “CONFIGURATION switches” below (on page 3).
6 POWER switch This used to turn the power of the VD-1673 on and off.

Chapter 1 CONCERNING THE VD-1673
3
CONFIGURATION switches
The CONFIGURATION switches have the functions described below.
Table CONFIGURATION switches
Name of function Switch no. Description
1 2 Used to set the control mode.
* Refer to “Chapter 2 Control Methods (Control
Modes)” (on page 7).
(OFF) (OFF) Control is exercised using the “front panel switches.”
(ON) (OFF) Control is exercised using the “EXT I/F connector.”
CONTROL
(OFF) (ON) Control is exercised using a “VG series generator.”
3 Used to set the output mode when “front panel switch”
control has been selected as the control mode.
* Refer to “3.1 Output modes” (on page 15).
(OFF) The switcher operates in the switching mode.
OUTPUT
(ON) The switcher operates in the distribution mode.
4 5 Used to set the pre-emphasis level of the TMDS
signals.
* Refer to “3.4 Pre-emphasis level” (on page 16).
(OFF) (OFF) 0 dB
(ON) (OFF) 3 dB
PRE-PMPHASIS
(OFF) (ON) 6 dB
6 7 8 Set all of these three switches to OFF. Reserve
OFF OFF OFF
1.3.2 Rear panel
(7) (8) (9)
A C IN (100-240 V)T 3. 15A
EXT I / F IN1 IN2 OUT1 OUT2 OUT3 OUT4 OUT5 OUT6 OUT7 OUT8
Fig. Rear panel
Table Names of the parts and what they are used for
No. Name of part Description of setting
7 EXT I/F connector Used to control the VD-1673 by inputting signals to this connector when “EXT I/F
connector” control has been selected as the control mode.
8 INPUT These are the HDMI input ports of the VD-1673.
9 OUTPUT These are the HDMI output ports of the VD-1673.

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1.4 Sequence of settings
Follow the sequence of steps below when using the VD-1673.
(1) Set the control mode.
Select the control mode, and set it using the CONFIGURATION switches on the front panel of
the VD-1673.
(2) Connecting the units
Connect the units to the HDMI input and output ports of the VD-1673.
(3) Setting the input ports
Select the input ports in line with the control mode selected.
(4) Setting the output ports
Select the output ports in line with the control mode selected.
(5) Setting the output mode
Select the output mode in line with the control mode selected.
(6) Set the pre-emphasis level.
Set the pre-emphasis level of the TMDS signals.

Chapter 1 CONCERNING THE VD-1673
5
1.5 Examples of connections
When controlling the switcher from the EXT I/F connector
AC IN(100-240V)T3.15A
EXT I/F IN1
リモコン等の治具
When controlling the switcher from the VG series generator
Sink機器
AC IN(100-240V)T3.15A
EXT I / F IN1 IN2 OUT1 OUT2 OUT3 OUT4 OUT5 OUT6 OUT7 OUT8
Source機器1Source機器2
Remote control unit
or other jig
Source unit Source unit 2
Sink units

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When using the SELECTION mode as the HDMI output mode
Sink機器
AC IN(100-240V)T3.15A
EXT I /F IN1 IN2 OUT1 OUT2 OUT3 OUT4 OUT5 OUT6 OUT7 OUT8
VGシリーズ
HDCP OK
EDID OK
CEC OK
When using the DISTRIBUTION mode as the HDMI output mode
(* only when HDCP is OFF)
Sink機器
AC IN(100-240V)T3.15A
EXT I /F IN1 IN2 OUT1 OUT2 OU T3 OUT4 OUT5 OUT6 OUT7 OUT8
VGシリーズ
VG series generato
r
Sink units
Sink units
VG series generato
r

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2
2 CONTROL METHODS
(CONTROL MODES)
The following three control methods (control modes) are available for the VD-1673.
Table Control modes
Control mode Description Details
Front panel switches The switcher is controlled using the switches on
its front panel.
2.1 Exercising control using the
switcher’s front panel switches
EXT I/F connector The switcher is controlled by inputting signals to
the EXT I/F connector.
2.2 Exercising control using the
switcher’s EXT I/F connector
VG series generator The switcher is controlled using the menus of a
VG series generator.
2.3 Exercising control using a
VG series generator
Once the control method has been set, the switches of the VD-1673 must be used to set the switcher’s
operations in line with the control method selected.
2.1 Exercising control using the switcher’s front panel
switches
The VD-1673 can be controlled using the CONFIGURATION switches, INPUT SELECT switch and
OUTPUT SELECT switch on its front panel.
2.1.1 Setting the CONFIGURATION switches
In order to enable control to be exercised using the switches on the switcher’s front panel,
CONFIGURATION switches no. 1, 2 and 3 on the front panel must be set to the positions shown in
the table below.
Table CONFIGURATION switch settings
Switch no. Name of function Setting
1 OFF
2
CONTROL
OFF
3 OUTPUT Refer to “2.1.2 Control methods” below.

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2.1.2 Control method
Set the CONFIGURATION switch, INPUT SELECT switch and OUTPUT SELECT switch on the
switcher’s front panel to the positions shown in the table below.
Table Control method selected using the front panel switches
Setting item Operation Description
Input port selection Press the INPUT SELECT switch. Each time the switch is pressed, the input
port is switched.
(Input 1 →input 2 →input 1)
Output port selection Press the OUTPUT SELECT switch. Each time the switch is pressed, the output
port is switched.
(Output 1 →output 2 →output 3 ... output 8
→output 1) *1
OFF SELECTION mode *2Output mode selection CONFIGURATION switch no.3
ON DISTRIBUTION mode *2
2.2 Exercising control using the switcher’s EXT I/F
connector
The VD-1673 can be controlled using the EXT I/F connector on its rear panel.
2.2.1 Setting the CONFIGURATION switches
In order to enable control to be exercised using the EXT I/F connector on the switcher’s rear panel,
CONFIGURATION switches no.1 and 2 on the front panel must be set to the positions shown in the
table below.
Table CONFIGURATION switch settings
Switch no. Name of function Setting
1 ON
2
CONTROL
OFF
*1 When “SELECTION mode” has been set as the output mode, the TMDS, DDC and
CEC signals are all switched; when “DISTRIBUTION mode” has been set as the
output mode, only the DDC and CEC signals are switched.
*2 For further details on the SELECTION mode and DISTRIBUTION mode, refer to
“3.1 Output modes” (on page 15).
CAUTION