Contemporary Research QMOD-HDMI 1.5 User manual

Contemporary Research 1 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Product Manual
QMOD-HDMI1.5
QMOD™ HD Modulator-IPTV Encoder
September 25, 2014 Preliminary

Contemporary Research 2 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Table of Contents
Table of Contents................................................................................................................................ 2
Overview ............................................................................................................................................. 3
Installation - Settings......................................................................................................................... 4
Front Panel Menus.................................................................................................................................... 4
Quick Setup Menus................................................................................................................................... 4
Program A and Program B......................................................................................................................... 5
Common .................................................................................................................................................. 6
Web pages............................................................................................................................................... 7
Web Pages via USB .................................................................................................................................. 8
Firmware Update ................................................................................................................................ 9
Installation - Sources ....................................................................................................................... 10
Process ...................................................................................................................................................10
Component .............................................................................................................................................10
Video/CC.................................................................................................................................................10
Audio Inputs ...........................................................................................................................................10
Ethernet .................................................................................................................................................10
EAS ........................................................................................................................................................10
Multicast .................................................................................................................................................10
HDMI Connectivity............................................................................................................................ 11
Windows 7/8 Digital Signage Players ........................................................................................................11
Apple Digital Signage Players ...................................................................................................................11
Linux Signage Players ..............................................................................................................................11
Satellite/Cable Boxes ...............................................................................................................................11
Blu-Ray Players .......................................................................................................................................11
Other Open HDMI Sources .......................................................................................................................11
Rack Mounting .................................................................................................................................. 12
Specifications.................................................................................................................................... 13
Safety Instructions ........................................................................................................................... 14
Limited Warranty and Disclaimer ..................................................................................................... 15
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Dolby and the Double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

Contemporary Research 3 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Overview
Employing a totally new HD encoding technology, the QMOD-HDMI1.5 continues the QMOD track record for
quality and innovation, setting a new benchmark for features and performance. Designed for digital signage and
HD media applications, the QMOD-HDMI1.5 can accept PC 1080p/720p 60/24Hz video, as well as standard
59.94/29.97 refresh rates.
Users can upgrade unit for dual-channel operation by entering optional upgrade key code.
Sources
One HDMII input, 1080p 60/24 and 1080i/720p 59.94/60 Hz HDMI, also accepts embedded Dolby Dolby Digital and
PCM audio
One RGBHV/Component input, 1080i, 720p, 480p, 480i video, 1080p (RGBHV)
One Composite video input for encoding, captioning, or EAS use
Stereo and coax SPDIF audio inputs
Encoding
Creates a high-definition 720p/1080i MPEG-2 stream for broadcast
Converts stereo and PCM to stereo Dolby Digital AC-3, can create SAP dual-language audio for each program
Includes captioning from Line 21 data on composite video inputs
New! Full scaling now standard, allows precise formatting of digital signage, accepts 1080p video, compensates for
60/30 Hz consumer source, and scales all video to a set resolution
QSDI-Dual 2-channel upgrade key allows selection of inputs to create 2 HD channels
Output
Delivers a fully agile QAM 64/256 digital cable channel 2-135
Up to 270 HD Programs/Channels per system
Streams IPTV from GigE Ethernet port
Distributes channel over an on-site broadband cable system with adjustable output level to 29 dBmV, compatible
with all cable format broadband systems
Operation
Sets up with front-panel buttons and easy to use menus, including inputs, encoding, channel, and RF options.
Onboard Web page for setup and monitoring, also accessible from front-panel USB port
Control with IP Telnet commands
Saves power and rack space using efficient design
Includes compact switching power supply
Mounts in optional 1RU single (RK1) or dual (RK2EZ) 19” rack kits
Meets RoHS safety and California energy standards

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Installation - Settings
There are 3 ways you can change the settings:
Front Panel. Press the SETUP button use the Up/Down buttons to move through menus, Left/Right to
change settings, then press SELECT to store the changes at each step.
oSelect a menu group (Quick, A, B, QMOD), then SELECT to view that group’s menus
oPress SETUP to move back to other menu groups
oPressing the left and right buttons together will reboot the unit
Ethernet. Access the onboard Web pages. Helpful for remote access when system is fully integrated
with site Ethernet.
USB-Web. Access Web pages from front-panel USB port, simplest solution for full setup, requires no IP
setup or connection, connect from the front of the equipment rack
Front Panel Menus
There are four groups of menus you can choose from:
Quick Setup supplies just the few steps needed to output the source as a channel.
Program A goes deeper in to all the options for the first source
Program B does the same for the second source, if that option is enabled
Common menus set the core values for the entire channel, such as IP address, level, cable plan, and
other options
Quick Setup Menus
This series is designed for a quick setup for testing and integration.
Channel
Sets the physical channel, 2-135
RF Level
Sets the RF level for the channel
29 | 25 | 21 | 17 | 13 | 9
Video A Input
Selects the video input for Program A
HDMI | YPbPr | RGBHV| Video 1| Video 2
Audio A Input
Selects the audio input for Program A
None | SPDIF 1 | SPDIF 2 | Analog 1| Analog 2
Video B Input
Selects the video input for Program B (if enabled)
None | HDMI | YPbPr | RGBHV| Video 1| Video 2
Audio B Input
Selects the audio input for Program B (if enabled)
None | HDMI | SPDIF 1 | SPDIF 2 | Analog 1| Analog 2
At this point, you should be able to view the QMOD channels on a test TV. Note that setting Video B input to
None will automatically put the encoder in to single-channel mode, and revert to 2-channel mode when inputs
are selected for Program A and B.
A QMOD channel, or any QAM channel, can include two video streams, called Programs. It’s really one stream
that contains both videos. The TV figures out which to play using the channel ID, typically something like
channel IDs 2.1 and 2.2, 3.1 and 3.2 and so on. For marketing purposes we use the popular term “2-Channel”
the general public understands, for integrators we use the more correct term “2 Programs”.

Contemporary Research 5 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Program A and Program B
This series of menus lets you drill down to all the possible options for either Program.
Audio 1 Input
Sets audio for the currently selected source. If you plan on switching sources in your
application, select each video input, then select the associated audio. The audio will then
automatically follow the selected video input.
None | HDMI | SPDIF 1 | SPDIF 2 | Analog 1| Analog 2
Audio 1 Format
Selects audio format for stereo PCM or analog audio. Incoming AC3 audio encoding will be
passed through.
AC3 | MP12
Audio 1 Lang
Displays metatext for audio channel language.
English | Spanish | Portuguese |French|German
Audio 2 Input
Sets the source for the second SAP audio track for the selected video input. Audio will be
in MPEG 1 Layer 2 format
None | HDMI | SPDIF 1 | SPDIF 2 | Analog 1| Analog 2
Audio 2 Lang
Displays metatext for SAP audio channel language.
English | Spanish | Portuguese |French |German
Video Input
Select the video input
HDMI | YPbPr | RGBHV| Video 1| Video 2
Auto Out Res
When set to On, the QMOD will automatically output the program as the same resolution
as the source. Default is On.
On | Off
Resolution
When the scaling option is active, you can specify the output resolution. When it’s not, the
output will be set by the input.
1080i | 720p | 480p | 480i
Bitrate (Mbps)
Bitrate is adjustable in half steps from 10-25. Default rate will be 18 Mbps, set to 18 or
below for dual-channel operation.
IP Bit Rate
Only visible when QMOD outputs on Ethernet only. Selects Constant or Variable rate
Chan Major ID
Major virtual channel ID for program. Default is 000, will automatically insert the physical
channel number as the Major ID.
Chan Minor ID
Minor virtual channel ID. Default is 1, if set to 000, channel ID will only use the Major
channel ID
Chan Name
Enters channel short name, up to 7 characters. QMOD A or QMOD B is default text.
Press right or left arrow to start editing, use Up and Down arrows to select character.
No Vid Color
Sets background color displayed when no video is present
Orange | Purple (default) | Green
Major ID
Major virtual channel ID for program. Default is 000, will automatically insert the physical
channel number as the Major ID.
Minor ID
Minor virtual channel ID. Default is 1, if set to 000, channel ID will only use the Major
channel ID
Name
Enters channel short name, up to 7 characters. “QMOD” is default text.
Press right or left arrow to start editing, use Up and Down arrows to select character.
Sync Trig Level
May help how fine details are displayed
1-4
CC Source
Selects source for captioning. Video 1 and 2 provide Line 21 captioning data
None | Video 1 | Video 2
Horiz Freq
Shows horizontal frequency of source
Vertical Freq
Shows vertical frequency of source
Lines
Shows number of lines in source video

Contemporary Research 6 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Common
This series of menus sets global values for QMOD operation
Channel
Sets the physical channel, 2-135
QAM
Selects QAM 64 or QAM 256 (default). Fixed at 256 when 2-channel mode is enabled.
Continuous Wave is often used to test the channel with a meter.
256 | 64 | CW
Cable format
Standard cable frequencies (default)
HRC –same as Standard, channels 5 and 6 slightly different
IRC –All channel frequencies are different than the standard cable setting
RF Level
Sets the RF level of the channel.
29 | 25 | 21 | 17 | 13 | 9
IP Mode
Selects Static (default) or DHCP IP modes
DHCP will select new address, will switch to static if network not present
IP Address will show change when you select DHCP
If you go back to Static, the address you defined in that mode will be set
IP Address
192.168.1.231
Left/Right steps through each group, click Up or Down arrow to step one at a time, hold
down to move faster. Address also appears on LCD when QMOD restarts.
Gateway
255.255.255.000
Quad address –Left/Right steps through each group, click Up or Down arrow to step one
at a time, hold down to move faster.
Subnet Mask
255.255.255.0
Subnet has a limited range of combinations, so this function is simplified
Left/Right steps through each group, click Up or Down arrow for options
Telnet Port
2728 (default)
IP port for Telnet communication –Click or hold Up or Down to set.
Output Stream
Select outputs for stream, IP menus only appear when selected.
RF |IP|RF+IP
QMOD IP Port
Enter IP address for IPTV
UDP Mode
Selects UDP mode, sub menus change depending on mode
Unicast|Multicast
DstMultiAddr
Enter IP address for multicast
Dest IP Addr
Enter destination IP address for unicast
Dest IP Port
Enter UDP port for unicast or multicast
MAC/SN
Shows network MAC address
Ex: 00:04:9F:14:30:40 (last 2 bytes is the serial number)
LCD Contrast
Contrast 1-15
LCD Bright
Display brightness 1-16
Temperature
Internal temperature
Fan Speed
Set fan speed in percent
Backlight
Display brightness 1-10
CVCT
Activates inclusion of virtual channel ID and short Name in the video stream.
On (default) | Off
2nd Chan Key
Enter update key
FW version
Firmware version

Contemporary Research 7 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Web pages
The Web pages provide the same settings as the front-panel menus in simple Web forms (QMOD-HDMI1.5
pages shown as an example).
Quick Setup shows the basic
setup options.
The Program A and
Program B pages offer a full
range of setup features for
each program.

Contemporary Research 8 QMOD-HDMI1.5
The Common pages change
global values for the QMOD.
Web Pages via USB
When you don’t have an Ethernet connection, you can view the pages through the front USB port.
Connect a USB cable from the QMOD to your Windows PC, unit will auto-install
Go to Control Panel –Network and Internet –Change Adapter Settings
Right-click the USB Ethernet/RNDIS Gadget
Select Internet Protocol Version 4, select Properties and enter this info:
oIP Address: 192.168.277.228
oSubnet Mask: 225.225.225.0
oAll else blank
Enter 192.168.227.227 in your browser to see the QMOD Web pages

Contemporary Research 9 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Firmware Update
There’s a whole new firmware process for the new series of QMODs. The installer you download from our
website will create a standard Windows application.
When you open the folder, run the Setup.exe file, as you would for any new software app.
After you run the installer, look in All Programs, find the Contemporary Research folder, then open the QMOD
Updater folder. Click on the file with product and version you want to install to run the app:
You have two options for firmware updating, Ethernet or Front panel USB. Ethernet is always the quickest, USB
is handy when you don’t have an IP connection. The update process via USB will usually take longer than IP.

Contemporary Research 10 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Installation - Sources
Process
Connect source(s) to appropriate inputs
Perform Quick Setup from front panel to test operation and channel
Use USB Web pages or front panel menus to compete the setup
The front panel LEDs will light if 2-channel or scaling options are enabled
HDMI
Source can be 1080p 60/59.94/24 Hz, 1080i 60/59.94 Hz, 720p 60/59.94 Hz, or 480i 29.97 Hz
HDMI sources with HDCP will not pass through
Component
Use the included HD15 to RCA Component adapter
The YPbPr signal can be 1080i 29.97/30 Hz, 720p 59.94/60 Hz, or 480p/480i 29.97/30 Hz
If the source has captioning data, that can be included by connecting the Composite out to the
Video/CC input
Video/CC
The Video/CC input can be used to create an SD digital channel, or to feed Line 21 captioning data
Audio Inputs
The Coax and analog Stereo inputs can be assigned to any input
Dolby Dolby Digital will be passed through, stereo is converted to Dolby Digital stereo
When using 2 language tracks, the first will be Dolby Digital, the second MPEG1 Layer 2 stereo
Ethernet
The IP and Telnet ports are assigned via front panel or Web menus
Streaming options can be set locally or remotely
EAS
EAS (Emergency Alert System) operation is triggered by a latching input on the SW and Ground pins, a
5-12 VDC level on the V+ and Ground pins
The assigned EAS inputs, usually Video and Stereo, will broadcast on both programs when active
Multicast
Multicasting streams require a router with Multicast capability –the router creates the copies needed for user
requests. Use IP addresses 224.0.0.1 through 239.255.255.255, which are set aside for multicast streams.

Contemporary Research 11 QMOD-HDMI1.5
HDMI Connectivity
Because HD Modulators cannot use video from HDCP sources, the ability to broadcast HDMI video depends on
the nature of the video source, PC operating system, and interfaces used to make the connection.
Windows 7/8 Digital Signage Players
You can feed you Win 7/8 PC or player’s HDMI directly to our HDMI inputs. Windows (unlike Apple) does not
turn on HDCP when showing non-proprietary content. By the way, 1080p looks scary good on new-gen QMODs,
partly because of the direct-digital connection and our advances encoder. The QMOD does supply EDID so you
can select the right resolution. Generally, the advanced scaling option isn’t needed if you supply content at 720p
or 1080p, and you have about 10% safe area on the edges. If you need edge-to-edge presentation or the
content is more 16:10 VGA, you’ll need scaling to nail down the image.
Apple Digital Signage Players
The Apple OS keeps HDCP on, regardless of the type of content. We recommend using the Kramer PT-1C for
use with Apple HDMI. Generally, the first three switches on the interface would be off, the fourth (Disable
HDCP) needs to be on.
Linux Signage Players
Linux-based players such as Brightsign do not employ HDCP. We’re researching if that’s also true with Key
West, SpinetiX, AMX, and others.
Satellite/Cable Boxes
Historically, DirecTV does not turn on HDCP for commercial and residential applications; there may be
exceptions for video on demand content.
Cable receivers definitely turn on HDCP, and likely Dish Network as well (that fact has not been confirmed).
Plan on using the Component outputs to feed other QMODs with those input options. We have not confirmed if
the Kramer PT-1C will pass HDMI for those sources. Also, interfaces such as the Kanex ATV Pro can convert
HDMI to RGBHV. As the content provider’s public viewing contract with the site allows re-broadcast of specific
channels, this is not a usage issue.
Blu-Ray Players
While HDMI applications are OK for digital signage and public viewing of cable/satellite channels, use of Blue-
Ray content is murky. The HDMI’s HDCP is always locked, even for content you’ve created. The Kramer PT-1C
will no pass through Blu-Ray content if the HDCP switch is on[ while interfaces similar to the Kanex that convert
HDMI to RGBHV will work. We leave those issues up to the end user.
Other Open HDMI Sources
Other sources that do not have HDCP on the HDMI output are:
Contemporary Research 232-ATSC+1 HDTV tuners
SDI –to –HDMI adapters

Contemporary Research 12 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Rack Mounting
Three options are available for rack-mounting QMOD modulators
RK2EZ Dual Rack Kit with Tie Bar Mounting
QMOD enclosures have a slot in the bottom middle of the case. This will accept a tie bar that will lock the two
enclosures together without taking the cases apart. Do not mount the QCA9-33 or QDA4-45 units next to
QMODs, as the units will block flow-through fan ventilation.
1. Check that your enclosures have the tie bar slot.
2. Slide the included tie bar into the side of one unit and attach with the included screws.
3. Slide the other unit into the tie bar, and attach the screws
4. Add the rack mounts to the sides.
RK1 Single Unit Rack Mount
Attach the long and short rack ears to the side and towards the front of the unit with the four (4) supplied 8-
32 by ¼” (black) countersunk screws.
RK2 style –Locking Cases together
1. Remove top cover of the first unit by removing the ten (10) black screws.
2. Attach cover of first unit to the side of the second with three (3) supplied 4-40 by 1/4" (silver
colored) panhead screws and split lock washers. Note that only one side of the second unit has the
(3) built in nuts to accept the screws above.
3. Reinstall the bottom/chassis of the first unit underneath its cover and attach with just eight (8) of
the screws removed in step 1.
4. Attach short rack ears to the side and towards the front of each unit with the four (4) supplied 8-32
by 1/4" (black) countersunk screws.

Contemporary Research 13 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Specifications
Physical
8.5” [216mm] wide x 1.73” [62mm] height (1RU) x 6.0” [153mm] deep
1.5 lbs [0.68kg]
+32° to 122° F operating temperature, convection cooled
Rack mounting for one or two units side-by-side optional (RK1, RK2EZ)
Front Panel
Select and directional buttons for menu setup
Menu LCD, Blue with 2 lines of 20 white characters each
Encoding
MPEG2 Profile:MP@HL for HD, MP@ML for SD
1080i, 720p, 480p, and 480i resolution
Up to 2 programs in MPEG2 transport stream for QAM and IPTV
Video Encoding bitrate 10-25 Mbps in half-step settings, variable bitrate for IP-only output
Dolby Digital stereo or MPEG1, Layer 2 audio
SAP Dual-language capability, 2nd language will be MPEG1
Full scaling for video conversion and formatting
Dual-channel operation with optional upgrade key
Modulation
Switchable 64/256 QAM, J83 Annex B, Interleaving Modes (128,1)
MER 38 dB typical
Compliance
FCC Class B, ROHS, meets California standards
Power
2.1mm coaxial jack (inside center conductor positive)
1.1A maximum, 11.5 to 13.5 VDC, 12 VDC typical
Rear Panel
EAS
Video Inputs
Audio Inputs
RF Out
3 GPI Pins for latching control, SW for closure, V+ 5-12 VDC, Ground
HDMI (non-HDCP), up to 1080p
HD15 RGBHV/Component: up to 1080p, 59.94/60/50, 29.97/30/25 Hz
Composite Video/CC: RCA female (480i), 29.97 Hz, also used for Line 21 captioning data
Digital SPDIF: Coax and TOSlink optical output, PCM 48K sample rate
Analog L and R: 2 stereo RCA female jacks
Inputs assignable to follow video inputs
‘F’, female, 75 ohm impedance
Agile, channels 2-135 (48-860 MHz), standard, HRC, or IRC spacing
6 MHz bandwidth fits any open channel without interference to adjacent channels
1 KHz resolution, +/- 30 ppm accuracy, +/- 35 ppm stability
29 dBmV typical output power, attenuated in 5 steps, approx 4 dB
Includes
PS12-1 Switching power supply, 1A 12 VDC, fits in typical AC power strips
PS12-4Y 4A power supply with Y cable to drive 2-4 QMODs (free at time of order)
Options
RK1 Single Rack Kit , RK2EZ Dual Rack Kit

Contemporary Research 14 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Safety Instructions
Read before operating equipment.
1. Cleaning - Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or
aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
2. Power Sources - Use supplied or equivalent UL/CSA approved low voltage DC plug-in transformer.
3. Outdoor Antenna Grounding - If you connect an outside antenna or cable system to the product, be
sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges
and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA No. 70, provides
information with respect to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the
lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna discharge
unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode.
4. Lightning - Avoid installation or reconfiguration of wiring during lightning activity.
5. Power Lines - Do not locate an outside antenna system near overhead power lines or other electric
light or power circuits or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside
antenna system, refrain from touching such power lines or circuits, as contact with them might be
fatal.
6. Overloading - Do not overload wall outlets and extension cords as this can result in a risk of fire or
electric shock.
7. Object and Liquid Entry - Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they
may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts, resulting in a fire or electric shock. Never spill
liquid of any kind on the product.
8. Servicing - Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose
you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
9. Damage Requiring Service - Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified
service personnel under the following conditions:
When the power supply cord or plug is damaged.
If liquid spills or objects fall into the product.
If the product is exposed to rain or water.
If the product does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those
controls that are covered by the operating instructions. An improper adjustment of other controls
may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the
product to its normal operation.
If the video product is dropped or the cabinet is damaged.
When the video product exhibits a distinct change in performance, this indicates a need for
service.

Contemporary Research 15 QMOD-HDMI1.5
Limited Warranty and Disclaimer
Contemporary Research Corporation (CR) warrants this product to be free from defects in material and
workmanship under normal use for a period of two years from the date of purchase from CR. Should such a
defect occur CR will repair or replace, at their option, the defective product at no cost for parts or labor.
This warranty extends to product purchased directly from CR or an Authorized CR Dealer. Consumers should
inquire from selling dealer as to the nature and extent of the dealer's warranty, if any.
All warranty claims must be shipped pre-paid to the factory. Call or fax to obtain a Return Material
Authorization (RMA) number.
CR is not liable for any damages caused by any of its products or for the failure of any products to perform,
including any lost profits, lost savings, incidental damages, or consequential damages. CR is not responsible
for any claim made by a third party or made for you by a third party. This limitation of liability applies
whether damages are sought, or a claim is made, under this warranty or as a tort claim (including
negligence and strict product liability), a contract claim, or any other claim. This limitation of liability cannot
be waived or amended by any person. This limitation of liability will be effective even if CR or an authorized
representative of CR has been advised of the possibility of any such damages.
Some states do not allow a limitation of how long an implied warranty lasts. Some states do not allow the
limitation or exclusion of incidental or consequential damages for consumer products. In such states, the
limitation or exclusion of the Limited Warranty may not apply to you. This Limited Warranty gives you
specific legal rights. You may also have other rights that may vary from state to state. You are advised to
consult applicable state laws for a full determination of your rights.
Except as expressly set forth in this Limited Warranty, CR makes no other warranties, expressed or implied,
including any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. CR expressly disclaims
all warranties not stated in this Limited Warranty. Any implied warranties that may be imposed by law are
limited to the terms of this Limited Warranty.