Black Box AC135A-R2 User manual

Video to VGA Converter/Switch
With Audio, RS-232 Control, and PC VGA input
June 2004
AC135A-R2
Order toll-free in the U.S. 24 hours, 7 A.M. Monday to midnight Friday: 877-877-BBOX
FREE technical support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: Call 724-746-5500 or fax [phone]
Mail order: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Drive, Lawrence, PA 15055-1018
Web site: www.blackbox.com • E-mail: [email protected]
CUSTOMER
SUPPORT
INFORMATION

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TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL
BLACK BOX and its logo are registered trademarks of Black Box
Corporation.
Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.
IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines
Corporation.
SGI is a registered trademark of Silicon Graphics, Inc.
Sun and Sun Microsystems are registered trademarks of Sun Microsystems,
Inc. in the United States and other countries.
Any other trademarks mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be
the property of the trademark owners.

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FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
AND CANADIAN DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENTS
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy
and if not installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with
the manufacturer’s instructions, may cause interference to radio
communication. It has been tested and found to comply with the limits
for a Class A computing device in accordance with the specifications in
Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC rules, which are designed to provide
reasonable protection against such interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in
a residential area is likely to cause interference, in which case the user
at his own expense will be required to take whatever measures may be
necessary to correct the interference.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate
the equipment.
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio
noise emission from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference
Regulation of the Canadian Department of Communications.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques
dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe
A prescrites dans le Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique publié
par le ministère des Communications du Canada.
EUROPEAN UNION DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
This product complies with the requirements of the European EMC
directive 89/336/EEC

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Normas Oficiales Mexicanas (NOM)
Electrical Safety Statement
INSTRUCCIONES DE SEGURIDAD
1. Todas las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser leídas
antes de que el aparato eléctrico sea operado.
2. Las instrucciones de seguridad y operación deberán ser guardadas para
referencia futura.
3. Todas las advertencias en el aparato eléctrico y en sus instrucciones de
operación deben ser respetadas.
4. Todas las instrucciones de operación y uso deben ser seguidas.
5. El aparato eléctrico no deberá ser usado cerca del agua—por ejemplo,
cerca de la tina de baño, lavabo, sótano mojado o cerca de una alberca,
etc.
6. El aparato eléctrico debe ser usado únicamente con carritos o pedestales
que sean recomendados por el fabricante.
7. El aparato eléctrico debe ser montado a la pared o al techo sólo como
sea recomendado por el fabricante.
8. Servicio—El usuario no debe intentar dar servicio al equipo eléctrico
más allá a lo descrito en las instrucciones de operación. Todo otro
servicio deberá ser referido a personal de servicio calificado.
9. El aparato eléctrico debe ser situado de tal manera que su posición no
interfiera su uso. La colocación del aparato eléctrico sobre una cama,
sofá, alfombra o superficie similar puede bloquea la ventilación, no se
debe colocar en libreros o gabinetes que impidan el flujo de aire por los
orificios de ventilación.
10. El equipo eléctrico deber ser situado fuera del alcance de fuentes de
calor como radiadores, registros de calor, estufas u otros aparatos
(incluyendo amplificadores) que producen calor.

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11. El aparato eléctrico deberá ser connectado a una fuente de poder sólo
del tipo descrito en el instructivo de operación, o como se indique en el
aparato.
12. Precaución debe ser tomada de tal manera que la tierra fisica y la
polarización del equipo no sea eliminada.
13. Los cables de la fuente de poder deben ser guiados de tal manera que no
sean pisados ni pellizcados por objetos colocados sobre o contra ellos,
poniendo particular atención a los contactos y receptáculos donde salen
del aparato.
14. El equipo eléctrico debe ser limpiado únicamente de acuerdo a las
recomendaciones del fabricante.
15. En caso de existir, una antena externa deberá ser localizada lejos de las
lineas de energia.
16. El cable de corriente deberá ser desconectado del cuando el equipo no
sea usado por un largo periodo de tiempo.
17. Cuidado debe ser tomado de tal manera que objectos liquidos no sean
derramados sobre la cubierta u orificios de ventilación.
18. Servicio por personal calificado deberá ser provisto cuando:
A: El cable de poder o el contacto ha sido dañado; u
B: Objectos han caído o líquido ha sido derramado dentro del aparato;
o
C: El aparato ha sido expuesto a la lluvia; o
D: El aparato parece no operar normalmente o muestra un cambio en su
desempeño; o
E: El aparato ha sido tirado o su cubierta ha sido dañada.

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Contents
1. Introduction ..............................................................................page 6
1.1 General ................................................................................page 6
1.2 Features ...............................................................................page 7
2. Installation.................................................................................page 8
3. Operation.................................................................................page 11
4. Configuration...........................................................................page 13
4.1 RS-232 Control and Configuration ....................................page 13
4.2 Control Panel Software for Windows.................................page 13
4.3Serial Command Set...........................................................page 14
5. Troubleshooting.......................................................................page 15
6. Specifications...........................................................................page 16

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1. Introduction
1.1 General
The Model AC135A-R2 converts an NTSC or PAL video signal to
VGA for display on PC monitors, projectors, or other progressive scan
displays. The converter de-interlaces and doubles the frame rate by
turning the interlaced Video input signal into a "progressive scan"
signal suitable for high-resolution display devices.
The AC135A-R2 provides multiple TV video inputs: two (2 ea.) RCA
composite video and one (1 ea.) S-Video -all with their own
corresponding stereo audio inputs.
Additionally, the unit provides a separate VGA and audio input from a
PC that can be switched to the output. This makes the AC135A-R2 a 4-
input to multi-standard switcher.
The user can select any of the inputs using individual push-button
switches on the front panel. An RS232 serial port is available for
external control and/or changing the internal configuration of the unit.
The unit has the ability to switch between the PC and TV inputs
automatically. When in “Auto” mode, if no TV video signal is present,
it selects the PC input and as soon as a TV input is detected, it switches
to the TV input by itself. This feature makes the unit perfect for
educational facilities where the presenter does not even have to worry
about making selections on the AC135A-R2.
The AC135A-R2 also provides 4 Stereo audio inputs, one for each
corresponding video input. The audio switching follows the selected
video input channel. In addition, each audio input has its own
adjustable volume setting making it perfect for balancing the output
volume level regardless of the input selection.
The AC135A-R2's VGA output can drive VGA extension cables to 200
feet. It is recommended that when video extension cables are used, only
high quality multi-coaxial VGA or RGBHV (such as Black Box
EVNPS05-0050-MF) be used.

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When enabled, OSD (On Screen Display) shows the selected TV input
for a few seconds, or if the selected input does not have video, it
continuously indicates the selected input. Screen Saver feature moves
the OSD around the screen when no video input is detected. The OSD
can be permanently disabled via the serial port.
The front panel can be locked out. This is a handy feature in many
installations. For example if the system is in “Auto” mode, the installer
may wish to also lock the front panel so that accidental hitting of the
front panel switches does not take the system out of Auto mode.
The unit features a front panel switch for enhancing the TV video input
prior to display on a VGA monitor. The enhancement is based on non-
linear Gamma correction. to bring out the details in the dark areas
without over driving the already bright regions of the image.
The Serial input givesthe user or installer full control over all aspects
of the device including: Contrast, Brightness, Saturation, Hue, OSD,
Front Panel Lock, Volume settings, Auto mode, TV format
(NTSC/PAL), Enhancement factor, and more.
The Model AC135A-R2 is housed in a compact shielded enclosure and
includes a small power adapter and 6 ft video and audio cables for
connection to the PC’s VGA and sound outputs.
1.2 Features
•3 NTSC/PAL and 1 PC input to one VGA output
•Eliminates interlace flicker from video presentations
•Includes line-doubler with motion compensations
•Video enhancement via Gamma factor correction
•VGA input for full screen TV or PC Video display
•RS-232 control input port
•Free Serial Control Software available for download
•4 Stereo audio inputs
•User programmable brightness and contrast for TV input
•Packaged in portable EMI shielded enclosure
•VGA input resolutions to 1600 x 1200
•Individual volume controls for each audio input
•"Auto" mode for switching to active video
•Front panel and OSD enable/disable control

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2. Installation
1. Connect one or more of the video and audio input signals to the
input connectors on the AC135A-R2. Figure 2.1 shows a typical setup.
Figure 2.1

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Figure 2.2
2. The following table summarizes the available inputs:
Connector
Name Connector Type Signal Type Comments
VGA IN HD15, Female VGA, SVGA,
XGA From any PC, MAC, or Notebook. A 6 ft high-
resolution VGA cable is
supplied with unit
AUDIO IN 3.5mm (1/8”)
Mini-Stereo Line-level stereo Audio One 6 ft m/m input cable is provided for connection to
a PC sound output
CV IN 1 RCA, FemaleComposite
NTSC or PAL From any video source
AUDIO IN 3.5mm (1/8”)
Mini-Stereo Line-level stereo Audio
CV IN 2 RCA, Female Composite
NTSC or PAL From any video source
AUDIO IN 3.5mm (1/8”)
Mini-Stereo Line-level stereo Audio
S-VID IN MiniDin 4,
Female Y/C (S-Video, S-VHS)
AUDIO IN 3.5mm (1/8”)
Mini-Stereo Line-level stereo Audio
The output connectors are a HD15-F (VGA), and a 3.5mm (1/8”) Mini-
Stereo audio. Plug your VGA monitor and speakers (must be powered)
to these connectors.

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Table 2.1
3. Plug the supplied AC adapter to the Power input connector. Use
the supplied adapter or a 100% equivalent only.
NOTE
Do not connect a supply with an output voltage of greater
than 7.5 V DC to the unit. The power connector is center-
positive.
NOTE
The VGA input and out connectors have standard pin-outs as
shown below
High-Density 15-
pin VGA Output Connector
PIN Function
1Red
2Green
3Blue
4Not Used
5Gnd
6Red Return (Gnd)
7Green Return (Gnd)
8Blue Return (Gnd)
9Key (Not Used)
10 Gnd
11 Gnd
12 SDA (plug-n-play)
13 Horizontal Sync
14 Vertical Sync
15 SCL (plug-n-play)

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3. Operation
Upon plugging in the power, the unit performs a self-test and selects the
video input that was previously selected. If the unit was in “Auto” mode
prior to shut down, then it will come up in auto mode. To select an
input, simply press the push-button on the front of the unit
corresponding to that input. Corresponding LED indicates the selected
input.
Alternatively, the AC135A-R2 can be controlled by the serial RS232
port from any computer or RS-232 device (see details in following
section).
If the VGA input is selected, then the unit buffers the signal and passes
it to the output without modification. If the input is from one of the 3
NTSC or PAL channels, the unit automatically converts the signal to
VGA. Line doubling and image processing via digital filtering do the
conversion. The output signal preserves the entire information
contained in the TV input signal, and also improves the way it appears
on the screen by line doubling (de-interlaced). The output resolution
during conversion is 640x480 for NTSC Systems and 768x576 for
PAL. Almost all VGA monitors and LCD's today should automatically
size the image to perfectly fit the screen.
The Enhancement switch on the front panel applies the level of gamma
correction previously defined via the Serial control. Default level is 1.
The audio selection follows the video input signal. If the “line-level”
volume of the input is different between your sources, for example if

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the DVD player has louder output than the VCR, you can balance
(equalize) the volume settings using the serial input control so that
when you switch from one input to another the output volume level
stays the same.
Special Front Panel Operations
qTo enter the “Auto” mode from the front panel press the left
two switches (VGA and CV1) simultaneously for 1 second. In
auto mode if there are no TV inputs, the unit selects the PC
input. As soon as it detects a valid TV input on any of the
video inputs, the AC135A-R2 switches to the TV input. (The TV
inputs have priority over the VGA input from the PC; there is
no priority structure among TV inputs as soon as a valid TV
signal is found on CV1, CV2, or S-Video, the unit selects it
and stays on it as long as the video signal is present.
qTo reset the system to factory default settings, press the left
and right switches (VGA and S-Video) simultaneously for 3
seconds. The system will reset to factory settings. This
capability is available even if the front panel has been locked.

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4. Configuration
4.1 RS-232 Control and configuration
The AC135A-R2 is ready and fully operational right out of the box and no
customer configuration is normally needed.
However, the RS-232 port provided on the box can be used not only to
make input channel selection, but to adjust a few of the internal settings
of the AC135A-R2 such as default contrast, brightness, and audio
switching/mixing parameters.
You can use any ASCII terminal emulation software (such as Windows
Hyper Terminal), or contact Black Box to obtain a Windows-based
control and setup program for the AC135A-R2. You would need a straight
through DB9 Male-to-Female cable for connection to a PC.
For example, when using Windows Hyper-Terminal, do the following:
Use Comm. port 1 or 2 of the PC. Configure for 4800 baud, 8 bits, no
parity, one stop bit. Set for ANSI emulation, ASCII with no Local
Echo.
4.2 Control Panel Software for Windows
Optional Windows-based "Control Panel" software is available for the
AC135A-R2. The software includes options for changing the default
brightness, contrast, audio switching/mixing setup, selecting input
channels, getting a status report, and restoring factory default settings.
If you are interested, please contact the Black Box ftp site or Tech
Support to obtain a copy. You would need a straight-through DB9
Male-to-Female cable for connection to a PC.

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4.3 Serial Command Set
Configure port for: 4800 Baud, 8-bits, no parity, 1 stop bit
Command Description
D1[enter] Restore Defaults
I0[enter] Auto Scan
Ix[enter] Select Input ( x=1:CV1, 2: CV2, 3:S-Vid, 4:VGA)
Bx[enter] Brightness set & Save ( 0 < x< 255)
^Bx[enter] Brightness set ( 0 < x< 255)
Cx[enter] Contrast set & Save ( 0 < x< 127)
^Cx[enter] Contrast set ( 0 < x< 127)
Vx[enter] Volume set & Save for current input selection ( 0 < x< 255)
^Vx[enter] Volume set ( 0 < x< 255)
Sx[enter] Saturation set ( 0 < x< 127)
^Sx[enter] Saturation set ( 0 < x< 127)
Hx[enter] Hue set ( 0 < x< 255)
^Hx[enter] Hue set ( 0 < x< 255)
Ox[enter] OSD Control (x=0:Off, 1:On)
Fx[enter] Front Panel Control (x=0:Off or Disabled, 1:On or active)
Gx[enter]Gamma Enhancement Level ( x=1:1.3, 2:1.5, 3:1.8)
Nx[enter] NTSC ( x=1:Configure Specifically for NTSC, 0:Other or Auto)
Rx[enter] Read Bus (follow instructions) ** FOR ADVANCED USE ONLY **
Wx[enter] Write Bus (follow instructions) ** FOR ADVANCED USE ONLY **

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5. Troubleshooting
If your monitor goes blank periodically …
Some VCR's (particularly lower cost ones with no time-base
correction), output jittery and unstable video signal timing (especially
in FF or PAUSE modes); however, the AC135A-R2 performs the
conversion to VGA regardless. Some VGA monitors or LCD's may not
be able to handle the instability in refresh rate and may lose the image
lock periodically. If this occurs, the solution is to: use a different VCR
with time base correction (TBC), change the monitor to a different
brand/model, or use a time-base corrector (or sync stabilizer).
If you want to substitute power supplies …
The universal power supply that comes with the AC135A-R2 generates
6v DC output.Do not apply a DC voltage higher thatn 7.5 V to the unit.
Calling Black Box
If you determine that your converter is malfunctioning, do not attempt
to repair the unit. Contact Black Box Tech. Support at 724-746-5500.
Before you do, make a record of the history of the problem. We will be
able to provide more efficient and accurate assistance if you have a
complete description, including:
• The nature and duration of the problem;
• The components involved in the problem—that is, what type of
cable, makes and models of computers and monitors, etc.
Shipping and Packaging
If you need to transport or ship your converter:
• Package it carefully. We recommend that you use the original
container.
• Before you ship the unit back to Black Box for repair or return,
contact us to get a Return Authorization (RA) number.

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6. Specifications
Compliance CE; FCC Part 15 Subpart B Class A, IC Class
Standards VGA, SVGA, or XGA video. RGBHV
Interfaces
Supported Video: VGA, Composite, and S-Video,
Audio: Stereo line-level analog
Serial: RS-232, pinned according to TIA-574, DCE
Video Types VGA Input: to 1600 x 1200 up to 100 Hz
TV Inputs: NTSC or PAL (auto detect)
VGA Output: Same as VGA input, or 640x480 /
800x600 for conversion (NTSC / PAL respectively)
Bandwidth Video: DC to 250 MHz
Video Level 0.7 volts peak-to-peak, on RGB, TTL on H & V
Connectors HD15 for VGA, RCA for CV, MD4 for S-VHS
Temperature
Tolerance Operating: 32 to 122°F (0 to 50°C);
Storage: –40 to +185°F (–40 to +85°C)
Enclosure Steel
MTBF 90,000 hours (calculated estimate)
Power From utility-power (mains) outlet, through included
external power adapters. Output Voltage: 6v DC to 7.5
v DC Center-Positive 750 ma, minimum
Size 6.9" W x 3.3" D x 1.8" H
Weight 1.2. lb box only; 2.7 lb shipping

© Copyright 2004. Black Box Corporation. All rights reserved.
1000 Park Drive Lawrence, PA 15055-1018 724-746-5500 Fax [phone]