Crestron CNX-PVID8x3 User manual

Crestron CNX-PVID8x3
Video Distribution Switch
Operations Guide

This document was prepared and written by the Technical Documentation department at:
Crestron Electronics, Inc.
15 Volvo Drive
Rockleigh, NJ 07647
1-888-CRESTRON
All brand names, product names, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
©2005 Crestron Electronics, Inc.

Crestron CNX-PVID8x3 Professional Video Distribution Switch
Operations Guide - DOC. 8159A Contents •i
Contents
Professional Video Distribution Switch: CNX-PVID8x3 1
Introduction ...............................................................................................................................1
Features and Functions................................................................................................1
Specifications ..............................................................................................................3
Physical Description....................................................................................................4
Industry Compliance ...................................................................................................8
Setup ..........................................................................................................................................8
Network Wiring........................................................................................................... 8
Identity Code ...............................................................................................................9
Cabling and Jumpers .................................................................................................12
Rack Mounting .......................................................................................................... 13
Stacking.....................................................................................................................14
Hardware Hookup ..................................................................................................... 15
Hardware Configurations ..........................................................................................15
Signal Distribution to More than Eight Rooms ......................................................... 21
Programming Software............................................................................................................23
Earliest Version Software Requirements for the PC .................................................23
Programming with the Crestron SystemBuilder........................................................23
Programming with SIMPL Windows ........................................................................24
Uploading and Upgrading........................................................................................................ 33
Communication Settings ...........................................................................................34
Uploading a SIMPL Windows Program.................................................................... 36
Firmware Upgrade..................................................................................................... 38
Problem Solving ...................................................................................................................... 39
Troubleshooting......................................................................................................... 39
Further Inquiries ........................................................................................................ 40
Future Updates .......................................................................................................... 40
Return and Warranty Policies .................................................................................................. 41
Merchandise Returns / Repair Service ...................................................................... 41
CRESTRON Limited Warranty.................................................................................41

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Operations Guide - DOC. 8159A Professional Video Distribution Switch: CNX-PVID8x3 •1
Professional Video Distribution
Switch: CNX-PVID8x3
Introduction
Features and Functions
The Crestron®Professional Video Distribution Switch, CNX-PVID8x3, is a CAT5
video distribution system that is capable of delivering video from a large number of
separate video sources like DVD players, DSS receivers, tuners, VCRs, and cameras
into a multitude of separate rooms or areas. The exact number of input sources and
output destinations depend on how the unit is to be used in a system: whether or not
it is connected to a Crestron Room Solution Box (CNXRMC or CNXRMCLV).
Its unique design and phenomenal flexibility remove design and installation
constraints from residential systems integration. This unit can provide professional
quality far above the level of consumer-grade equipment for sophisticated home
theaters, kitchens, bedrooms, offices, and outdoor areas. Fully integrated with the
Crestron control system network (Cresnet®) as a network device, the CNX-PVID8x3
is a key component in the Crestron Home®complete solution for distributing video
and control throughout the home.
Functional Summary
• Accepts NTSC/PAL composite, component, and S-video sources,
including HDTV
• Distributes 16, 24, or 32 separate video sources to as many as 8 separate
rooms via CAT5
• Three levels of video matrix boards; each with 16 RCA inputs and 8
RCA outputs
• Each input includes two RCA connectors wired in parallel; one for video
input, one for termination or loop-through
• Each input has built-in video sync sensor to report power/activity status
of source device
• RCA output jacks provide single-ended (local mode) video
• Eight RJ-45 connectors provide differential (CAT5 mode) video to up to
eight rooms
• Internal jumpers and programming enable extensive input/output
configuration flexibility

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The CNX-PVID8x3 accepts component, S-video, and NTSC/PAL composite
sources, including HDTV signals, and distributes them to display devices throughout
the home via standard CAT5 structured wiring. This distribution method ensures a
balanced signal for long runs, allowing the user to equalize, adjust, and boost the
gain of the video signal for the perfect picture for every application, in every room.
The CNX-PVID8x3 is designed with three levels of video inputs and outputs, each
highly configurable for a variety of video formats. Each of the three levels of
switcher boards implements a video matrix with 16 RCA inputs and eight RCA
outputs for direct single ended video connection to local display devices. In addition,
the CNX-PVID8x3 contains eight RJ-45 outputs for distributing any of these video
signals via CAT5 mode for differential video/control to up to eight rooms throughout
the house. No matter what the configuration, all inputs have a built-in video sync
sensor that reports power/activity status of all source devices attached to the
CNX-PVID8x3.
CNX-PVID8x3 used with Crestron Room Solution Box
NOTE: Systems that incorporate the CNX-PVID8x3 and Crestron Room Solution
Boxes satisfy a vast number of possible applications that could be used by Crestron
customers.
The CNX-PVID8x3 is ideally used in tandem with a CNXRMC or CNXRMCLV in
each room, which receives and decodes the CAT5 video from the CNX-PVID8x3
and supplies it to the display devices in the room. Refer to an illustration of a general
application scenario after this paragraph. This video distribution solution, combined
with Crestron's audio distribution switches (CNX-PAD8A or CNX-BIPAD8), a
Crestron CNAMPX intelligent amplifier, and a 2-Series control system, creates a
complete networked audio/video/control solution for the connected home.
General Application Scenario of the CNX-PVID8x3
ROOM SPEAKERS
2-Series
Control System
CNX-PVID8x3
CNX-PAD8A OR CNX-BIPAD8
CNAMPX
L1
AUDIO
S-VIDEO
AUDIO
COMPONENT VIDEO
COMPOSITE VIDEO
SECURITY CAMERA
DVD
VCR
R1L1 L8 R8
R1 L8 R8
(CAT 5)
VIDEO
TO
CNXRMC
OR
CNXRMCLV
CRESNET
ROOM SPEAKERS
The Crestron SystemBuilder™ (SystemBuilder) can be used to facilitate the
programming portion of this system. However, due to the wiring constraints between
the CNX-PVID8x3 and Crestron Room Solution Boxes, each type of video source
must connect to a specific group of input connectors, which is dependent on the

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Operations Guide - DOC. 8159A Professional Video Distribution Switch: CNX-PVID8x3 •3
hardware configuration chosen. Refer to "Hardware Configurations" on page 15 for
specific connection details.
CNX-PVID8x3 used without Crestron Room Solution Box
In this system, the CNX-PVID8x3 has an incredible amount of flexibility with
respect to making connections to all three types of video sources. For example, it is
possible to have a composite source connected to INPUT 1, level 1 and an S-video
source connected to INPUT 1, levels 2 and 3, simultaneously. However, the Crestron
SystemBuilder cannot be used for the programming portion of this kind of system.
All programming is done entirely in SIMPL Windows. Refer to "Programming with
SIMPL Windows" on page 24 for guidance with respect to SIMPL Windows.
Specifications
The following table provides a summary of specifications for the CNX-PVID8x3.
Specifications of the CNX-PVID8x3
SPECIFICATION DETAILS
Cresnet Power Usage 36 Watts (1.25 Amp @ 24 VDC)
Default Net ID 41
Control System Update Files 1, 2, 3
2-Series Control System
CNMSX-AV/PRO
CNRACKX/-DP
CEN/CN-TVAV
ST-CP
Version 2.004.CUZ or later
Version 5.14.02X.UPZ or later
Version 5.14.02W.UPZ or later
Version 5.12.63V.UPZ or later
Version 4.02.4S.UPZ or later
CNX-PVID8x3 Firmware 4 PVID_16.vx.xxx.upg or later
PVID_16.s19 or later
Rack space required 3U high; 1U wide
Video bandwidth 100 MHz
Crosstalk > -60 dB
Environmental temperature range 41° to 104°F (5° to 40°C)
Humidity 10% to 90% RH (non-condensing)
Dimensions
(with feet)
(without feet)
(without mounting ears)
Height: 5.31 in (13.49 cm)
5.21 in (13.24 cm)
Width: 17.16 in (43.59 cm)
Depth: 8.45 in (21.47 cm)
Weight 8.6 lb (3.87 kg)
1. The latest versions can be obtained from the Crestron website. Refer to NOTE after last footnote.
2. Crestron 2-Series control systems include the AV2 and PRO2. Consult the latest Crestron Product
Catalog for a complete list of 2-Series control systems.
3. Filenames for CNX and ST-CP update files have a UPZ extension. Files on the website may be .zip
or self-extracting .exe files containing the .cuz or .upz file. All can be obtained from the Downloads
section of the Crestron website. To avoid program problems, make sure you are using the update file
with the correct suffix letter (e.g., S, V, W, X)
4. In DETAILS, vx.xxx.x represents a version number.
NOTE: Crestron software and any files on the website are for Authorized Crestron
dealers and Crestron Authorized Independent Programmers (CAIP) only. New users
may be required to register to obtain access to certain areas of the site (including the
FTP site).

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4 •Professional Video Distribution Switch: CNX-PVID8x3 Operations Guide - DOC. 8159A
Physical Description
The CNX-PVID8x3 is housed in a black enclosure with labeling on the front and
rear panels. LEDs on the front of the unit indicate the unit's status. All connections
are made to the back of the unit. Refer to the following illustrations.
CNX-PVID8x3 Front View
CNX-PVID8x3 Rear View

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CNX-PVID8x3 Physical Views
17.16 in
(43.59 cm)
19.00 in
(48.26 cm)
5.31 in
(13.49 cm)
PWR
NET
CNX-PVID8X3
CRESTRON
8.45 in
(21.47 cm)
5.21 in
(13.24 cm)
Rear View
Top View
Front View
Two mounting ears are provided for rack mounting; four square rubber feet are
provided to be attached to the base of the unit for stability and to prevent slippage in
tabletop mounting or stacking configurations.
CNX-PVID8x3 Ports
A number of ports are provided on the back of the CNX-PVID8x3. Refer to the
illustration and descriptions below.
CNX-PVID8x3 Ports
INPUT 1 – 16 (Levels 1 – 3)
There are three levels of 16 inputs, each input has two RCA jacks connected in
parallel (one for video input, one for termination or loop-through), which are used to

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connect independent video sources to the CNX-PVID8x3. Each connector is
supplied with RCA terminators (75 ohm). The terminators should remain attached
unless the INPUT connectors of multiple units are connected (loop-through). Refer
to "Signal Distribution to More than Eight Rooms" on page 21 for a description and
illustration about loop-through. The last unit in the loop must have terminators
installed.
All video inputs have a video sensor so that the power status of all components can
be reported. Only inputs with sync can be reliably detected (composite or
luminance).
OUTPUT (RCA Connectors)
There are three levels of eight RCA jacks (24 total) for single ended (local mode)
video.
NOTE: The information on the OUTPUT RCA connectors and OUTPUT RJ-45
connectors are identical; they are not independently controllable.
OUTPUT (RJ-45 Connectors)
There are eight RJ-45 connectors for differential video (CAT5 mode). The outputs
are grouped into three pairs and correspond to the INPUT levels as shown in the
table after this paragraph. Use a standard CAT5 cable.
Pairing of RJ-45 OUTPUT Connector Pins with respect to the INPUT Levels
PAIRED PIN # ASSOCIATED INPUT LEVEL
1* and 2 1
3 and 6 2
4 and 5 3
7 and 8 not connected
* While facing the rear panel of the unit, pin 1 is located at the left side of the port.
NOTE: For additional information on video connections over CAT5, refer to the
latest version of the Crestron CAT5 Wiring Reference Guide (Doc. 6137) which is
available from the Crestron website (http://www.crestron.com/manuals).
NET
This 4-pin terminal block connector is used to connect the CNX-PVID8x3 to the
Cresnet system. Refer to "Network Wiring" on page 8 for details.
CNX-PVID8x3 Indicators
There are 29 LED indicators located on the front panel of the CNX-PVID8x3, and
one on the back panel. Refer to the following illustration and descriptions.
JACK, REAR VIEW
(TAB POSITION DOWN)
Pin 1
RJ-45 Pinout

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CNX-PVID8x3 Indicators
L
T
CRESTRON
L
NET
PWR
PR FEO SSI NOA
ES
TIVDE RTOISDBIU OINSWI
12345678 109 111213141516
13452678
CTE
2
1
3
HC
IAV TUEVPIECNOTDI
UTP UOT
CNX-PVID8X3
PWR (Power)
This LED illuminates when 24 volts DC from the network is supplied to the
CNX-PVID8x3.
NET
This LED illuminates when communication between the Cresnet system and the
CNX-PVID8x3 is established (unit is polled on the network). Illumination indicates
that the SIMPL Windows program currently loaded has a network device defined at
the same Net ID as the CNX-PVID8x3.
SELECT 1 - 3
These LEDs illuminate when a switcher board (levels 1 through 3) is selected.
Boards can be locally selected with the SELECT pushbutton. Refer to "SELECT
Pushbutton" on this page.
OUTPUT 1 - 8
These eight LEDs illuminate to indicate that a video source is routed via the
respective port to the corresponding room.
ACTIVE VIDEO INPUT
These 16 video sync indicators illuminate to signify active inputs on the selected
board (level).
NOTE: Only composite video and the "Y" S-video/component signal are reliably
detected. If connections to the INPUT connectors are made as recommended by
Crestron in "Hardware Configurations" on page 15, simply use level 1 for detection
of the sync signals.
SETUP LED and Pushbutton
The rear panel SETUP pushbutton and its associated red LED are used for setup of
the unit’s network ID during the initial configuration of a Cresnet system or when
the device is being added/replaced. Refer to “Identity Code” on page 9 for detailed
information.
SELECT Pushbutton
The front panel SELECT pushbutton allows for local selection of the boards (levels 1
through 3). Three indicators are used as feedback.

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Industry Compliance
As of the date of manufacture, the CNX-PVID8x3 has been tested and found to
comply with specifications for CE marking and standards per EMC and
Radiocommunications Compliance Labelling.
NOTE: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) these devices may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) these devices must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Setup
Network Wiring
CAUTION: In order to ensure optimum performance over the full range of your
installation topology, Crestron Certified Wire, and only Crestron Certified Wire,
should be used. Failure to do so may incur additional charges if support is required to
identify performance deficiencies as a result of using improper wire.
CAUTION: Use only Crestron power supplies for Crestron equipment. Failure to
do so could cause equipment damage or void the Crestron warranty.
CAUTION: Provide sufficient power to the system. Insufficient power can lead to
unpredictable results or damage to the equipment. Please use the Crestron Power
Calculator to help calculate how much power is needed for the system
(http://www.crestron.com/calculators).
NOTE: When installing network wiring, refer to the latest revision of the wiring
diagram(s) appropriate for your specific system configuration, available from the
Crestron website.
When calculating the wire gauge for a particular Cresnet run, the length of the run
and the Cresnet power usage of each network unit to be connected must be taken into
consideration. If Cresnet units are to be daisy-chained on the run, the Cresnet power
usage of each unit to be daisy-chained must be added together to determine the
Cresnet power usage of the entire chain. If the unit is a home-run from a Crestron
system power supply network port, the Cresnet power usage of that unit is the
Cresnet power usage of the entire run. The length of the run in feet and the Cresnet
power usage of the run should be used in the following resistance equation to
calculate the value on the right side of the equation.
Resistance Equation
R = Resistance (refer to the following table).
L = Length of run (or chain) in feet.
P = Cresnet power usage of entire run (or chain).
R < L x P
40,000 Where:
The required wire gauge should be chosen such that the resistance value is less than
the value calculated in the resistance equation. Refer to the table after this paragraph.

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Wire Gauge Values
RESISTANCE WIRE GAUGE
4 16
6 18
10 20
15 22
13 Doubled CAT5
8.7 Tripled CAT5
NOTE: All network wiring must consist of two twisted-pairs. One twisted pair is
the +24V conductor and the GND conductor and the other twisted pair is the Y
conductor and the Z conductor.
NOTE: When daisy chaining network units, always twist the ends of the incoming
wire and outgoing wire that share a pin on the network connector. After twisting the
ends, tin the twisted connection with solder. Apply solder only to the ends of the
twisted wires. Avoid tinning too far up or the tinned end becomes brittle and breaks.
After tinning the twisted ends, insert the tinned connection into the network
connector and tighten the retaining screw. Repeat the procedure for the other three
network conductors.
Identity Code
Every equipment and user interface within the network requires a unique identity
code (Net ID). These codes are two-digit hexadecimal numbers from 03 to FE. The
Net ID of the unit must match an ID code specified in the SIMPL Windows program.
Refer to “Setting the Net ID in Device Settings” on page 25 for details of the SIMPL
Windows procedure.
The Net ID of each CNX-PVID8x3 has been factory set to 41. The Net IDs of
multiple CNXPVID8x3s in the same system must be unique. Net IDs are changed
from a personal computer (PC) via the Crestron Viewport.
NOTE: For detailed information on establishing communication between the PC and
control system, refer to “Communication Settings” on page 34. If communication
cannot be established, refer to the “Troubleshooting Communications” section in the
latest version of the 2-Series Control System Reference Guide (Doc. 6256) or the
respective Operations Guide for the control system.
There are two different methods—Method A or Method B—for setting the
CNX-PVID8x3 Net IDs:
Method A (Cresnet address-settable ID), described on the next page, applies to
CNX-PVID8x3s in a Cresnet system with a 2-Series control system upgrade file
(CUZ) version prior to 3.008, but can be used with later versions of firmware and
requires that a single unit be the only network device connected to the control
system.
Method B (Touch Settable IDs), which begins on the next page, applies to
CNX-PVID8x3s in a Cresnet system with 2-Series control system upgrade file
(CUZ) version 3.029 or later. These upgrades enable Touch Settable ID (TSID)
functionality, which makes it possible for the control system to recognize a network
device via its serial number, which is stored in the device’s memory. This method
does not require that any devices be disconnected from the network; Net IDs may be

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set with the entire Cresnet system intact. This method requires the use of the
Crestron Viewport version 3.35 or later.
Use the appropriate method to set the CNX-PVID8x3 Net ID.
Method A (Cresnet address-settable ID)
1. Ensure that the CNX-PVID8x3 is the only device connected to the control
system.
2. Open the Crestron Viewport.
3. From the Viewport menu, select Functions | Set Network ID. The software
checks the baud rate and then opens the "Set Network ID" window.
4. In the "Set Network ID" window, select the CNX-PVID8x3 from the
Current Network Devices text window.
5. Select the new Net ID for the CNX-PVID8x3 from the Choose the new
network ID for the selected device (Hex): text box.
6. Click Set ID to initiate the change. This will display the "ID command has
been sent" window.
7. In the "Command Complete" window, click OK.
8. In the Current Network Devices text window, verify the new Net ID code.
9. In the "Set Network ID" window, click Close.
NOTE: The new Net ID code may also be verified by selecting Diagnostic | Report
Network Devices in the Viewport (alternately, select F4).
10. Repeat this procedure for each CNX-PVID8x3 to be added to the system.
Method B (Touch Settable IDs)
Before using this method, you should have a list of all current network devices and
their Net IDs, to avoid assigning duplicate IDs.
Set Net ID by TSID
These procedures are for TSID-enabled network devices during the initial
configuration of a Cresnet system or when such devices are being added/replaced.
1. Ensure that all CNX-PVID8x3s are connected to the control system.
2. Open the Crestron Viewport version 3.35 or later.
3. From the Viewport menu, select Functions | Assign Cresnet ID by Serial
Number. The “Set Net ID by TSID” window appears. The window is first
displayed with the data fields empty. (Refer to the following figure.)

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“Set Net ID by TSID” Window
4. Click on the Search for Touch Settable Devices button. The system
searches the network and lists all TSID-enabled devices found. The list is
similar to the report produced by pressing F4 (Report Network Devices);
the first eight digits of each line constitute the TSID number (hexadecimal
form of the serial number).
5. As you enter either the serial number or TSID number of the device that
requires a change, the corresponding TSID or serial number automatically
appears in its appropriate field, and the list scrolls to and highlights the
device listing. The listing should show the device’s current Cresnet ID.
6. Enter the Cresnet ID that the device should be set to and click OK. The
number you enter should appear on the list.
CAUTION: This function does not prevent you from setting duplicate IDs. Be sure
to check current assignments before entering the desired Cresnet ID number.
Serial Number to TSID Conversion
This utility is useful in a case where there are multiple devices of the same type on a
network, you need to locate a particular one, you know the TSID but not the serial
number, and your site installation list is based on device serial numbers. In this (or
the reverse) situation, do the following:
1. Open the Crestron Viewport.
2. From the Viewport menu, select Functions | Serial Number ÅÆ TSID
Conversion Tool. The “Serial Number ÅÆTSID Conversion Tool”
window is displayed. (Refer to the following figure.)

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“Serial Number to TSID Conversion Tool” Window
3. Enter the serial number or TSID number as instructed; press the appropriate
button to obtain the corresponding number.
NOTE: Enter serial numbers, including spaces, exactly as they appear on the unit
label. Alpha characters in serial numbers or TSID numbers may be entered in upper
or lower case.
Cabling and Jumpers
Out of the box, the CNX-PVID8x3 provides three 16x8 crosspoint boards that can be
operated independently or in parallel. However, versatility was built into the unit.
Depending on how the three boards are cabled and/or jumpered, the unit can be used
in different hardware configurations. For example, cabling boards 1 and 3
conceptually eliminates level 3 (thus component sources are not allowed with this
configuration) and extends level 1 with 16 composite-only connections. Furthermore,
installation of the cable assembly and removal of jumpers splits level 3 (thus
component sources are restricted to inputs 9 through 16) and extends level 1 with
eight composite-only connections.
NOTE: Possible configurations and their respective applications when the
CNX-PVID8x3 is connected to Crestron Room Solution Boxes are summarized in
"Hardware Configurations" on page 15. Furthermore, cabling and jumper removal
may prove useful in systems where the CNX-PVID8x3 does not connect to a
Crestron Room Solution Box. Refer to "Programming with SIMPL Windows" on
page 24 for details of how each configuration is represented in SIMPL Windows.
If the out-of-the-box configuration is desired, the following procedure, which defines
how to install the cable and remove jumpers, need not be completed. If one of the
other configurations is required, the only tools needed to complete this procedure are
a #2 Phillips screwdriver and a grounding strap (grounded workstation).
CAUTION: The CNX-PVID8x3 contains ESD sensitive devices. Perform the
following procedure while wearing a grounding strap that is properly grounded, or
on a grounded workstation to avoid damaging the unit.
NOTE: This procedure assumes that the CNX-PVID8x3 does not have rack ears
attached and has yet to be connected to the network.
1. Place the CNX-PVID8x3 right side up on a flat surface.

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2. Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, remove the 16 cover screws from the
top (four screws) and sides (six per side) of the CNX-PVID8x3.
3. Lift and remove the CNX-PVID8x3 top cover.
4. Use the supplied cable (15863) to connect board 1 (bottom board) to
board 3 (top board), as shown in the diagram that follows this step.
Location of Cable Connection (Side View of Unit)
USE CABLE FOR CONNECTION
OF LEVEL 1 TO LEVEL 3 ONLY
5. If the desired application requires removal of the jumpers, remove the
nine jumpers from level 3 (top board) only, as shown in the diagram
after this step. Otherwise, skip this step and step 6.
Location of Jumpers (Top View with Cover Removed)
JUMPER HOLDER
STORES REMOVED
JUMPERS
TO SPLIT LEVEL 3,
REMOVE NINE JUMPERS
(FROM LEVEL 3 ONLY)
NOTE: Eight of the nine jumpers are grouped together. Do not forget to remove the
ninth jumper that is located separately from the other eight.
6. Store jumpers removed in step 5 on the jumper holder, as shown in the
diagram that precedes this step.
7. Place the cover over the unit (observe proper orientation with respect to
front and back panels) and secure with 16 cover screws.
8. Tighten screws to finger-tight, then, using a #2 Phillips screwdriver,
tighten an additional 1/8-turn.
Rack Mounting
WARNING: To prevent bodily injury when mounting or servicing this unit in a
rack, take special precautions to ensure that the rack remains stable. The following
guidelines are provided to ensure user safety.

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• The unit should be mounted at the bottom of the rack if it is the only
unit in the rack.
• When mounting this unit in a partially filled rack, load the rack from
the bottom to the top with the heaviest component at the bottom of the
rack.
• If the rack is provided with stabilizing devices, install the stabilizers
before mounting or servicing the units in the rack.
NOTE: If rack mounting is not required, rubber feet are provided for tabletop
mounting or stacking. Apply the feet near the corner edges on the underside of the
unit. Refer to "Stacking" on page 14 for details.
NOTE: Reliable grounding of rack-mounted equipment should be maintained.
Particular attention should be given to supply connections other than direct
connections to the branch circuit (e.g., use of power strips).
Two "ears" are provided with the CNX-PVID8x3 so that the unit can be rack
mounted. These ears must be installed prior to mounting. Complete the procedure
below to attach ears to the CNX-PVID8x3. The only tool required for this procedure
is a #2 Phillips screwdriver.
1. Position a rack ear so that its drilled holes align with the four vacant
holes located on one side of the CNX-PVID8x3.
2. Use four screws (supplied, #6-32, 3/8"L) to secure the ear to the
CNX-PVID8x3, as shown in the following diagram.
Ear Attachment for Rack Mounting (Side View of Unit)
FASTEN EACH EAR
WITH FOUR
SCREWS (SUPPLIED)
3. Tighten screws to finger-tight, then, using a #2 Phillips screwdriver,
tighten an additional 1/8-turn.
4. Repeat procedure (steps 1 and 2) to attach ear to the other side.
5. If the rear panel of the CNX-PVID8x3 is accessible when mounted in
the rack, install the CNX-PVID8x3. If the rear panel is NOT accessible,
perform the hookup procedure before rack installation.
Stacking
Four "feet" are provided with the CNX-PVID8x3 so that if the unit is not rack
mounted, the rubber feet can provide stability when placed on a flat surface or
stacked. These feet should be attached prior to the hookup procedure. Refer to the
following illustration for placement of the feet.

Crestron CNX-PVID8x3 Professional Video Distribution Switch
Operations Guide - DOC. 8159A Professional Video Distribution Switch: CNX-PVID8x3 •15
Feet Location (Bottom View of Unit)
ATTACH FEET
NEAR CORNERS
OF THE UNIT
Hardware Hookup
Refer to the hookup diagram after this paragraph. Other than making the power
connection last, complete the connections in any order.
NOTE: For specific details regarding input connections, refer to "Hardware
Configurations" on page 15 if the CNX-PVID8x3 connects to Crestron Room
Solution Boxes within the system.
NOTE: Refer to "Network Wiring" on page 8 when making connections to the port
labeled NET.
Hookup Connections for the CNX-PVID8x3
FROM VIDEO SOURCES
(ACCEPTS COMPONENT,
S-VIDEO, NTSC/PAL COMPOSITE)
INPUT: CRESNET:
TO CONTROL
SYSTEM AND
OTHER CRESNET
DEVICES
SINGLE ENDED
(LOCAL) VIDEO TO
MONITOR OR
DISPLAY
OUTPUT:
DIFFERENTIAL
VIDEO TO ROOM
SOLUTION BOX
OUTPUT:
Hardware Configurations
NOTE: The hardware configurations described in the following sections only apply
to systems where the CNX-PVID8x3 connects to Crestron Room Solution Boxes.
The Crestron SystemBuilder can generate a program that fits into one of these
configurations.
The CNX-PVID8x3 is constructed with three crosspoint boards; each implements a
16x8x1 matrix. The physical boards are labeled on the back of the unit as "levels" 1,
2, and 3 from bottom to top. Component sources connect to levels 1 through 3 per
input (connect Y to level 1, Pbto level 2, and Prto level 3). S-video sources use
levels 1 and 2 per input (connect Y to level 1 and C to level 2). Composite sources
should connect to level 1 only (including level 3 extensions of level 1when boards 1

Professional Video Distribution Switch Crestron CNX-PVID8x3
16 •Professional Video Distribution Switch: CNX-PVID8x3 Operations Guide - DOC. 8159A
and 3 are connected via the cable assembly). Refer to the table after this paragraph
for a tabulation of the relationship between input levels and video formats.
Relationship of Video Formats to Input Levels
LEVEL \ VIDEO FORMAT
COMPONENT
(connects to
three levels)
S-VIDEO
(connects to
two levels)
COMPOSITE
(connects to
one level*)
3 Prnot connected not connected*
2 PbC not connected
1 YYCOMP
* Composite sources can physically connect to level 3 when boards 1 & 3 are connected via the cable assembly.
Depending on how the internal boards are cabled/jumpered, the unit can be used in
different configurations (each is discussed in the following subsections). Refer to the
flowchart below to determine which configuration to use (based on the source types
in the system).
NOTE: Crestron recommends the out-of-the-box configuration, because it allows
for the distribution of a large number of sources with the greatest flexibility and there
is no need to open the unit. The other configurations permit a greater number of
sources, but are not as flexible. The other configurations also require cabling of
boards and possibly the removal of jumpers.
Flowchart: Determine the Configuration
Determine the configuration based
on the sources in the system.
Are there more
than 16 sources in
the system?
Are there
component
sources
in the
system?
Are there 16 or
fewer S-video
sources in the
system?
Are there 16 or
fewer composite
sources in the
system?
Use the out-of-
the-box
configuration.
Consider adding
another
CNX-PVID8x3
to the system.
Consider adding
another
CNX-PVID8x3
to the system.
Are there
eight or fewer
component
sources in the
system?
Are there
eight or fewer
S-video
sources in the
system?
Consider adding
another
CNX-PVID8x3
to the system.
Are there
eight or fewer
composite
sources in the
system?
Is
the number
of component and
S-video sources in
the system
less than
16?
Use the limited
quantity of any-
type configuration.
Consider adding
another
CNX-PVID8x3
to the system.
Consider adding
another
CNX-PVID8x3
to the system.
Use the
composite/S-video
only configuration.
Yes
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes Yes
Yes
No No
No No
No
No
No
No
No
Is
the number
of component, S-
video, and composite
sources in the system
less than 24?
Is
the number
of S-video and
composite sources in
the system
less than
32?