FSR EXPLORER XP Series Setup guide

INSTALLATION AND OPERATOR’S MANUAL
43885 LIT1025
244 Bergen Boulevard, West Paterson, NJ 07424 • Tel [phone] • Fax [phone] • Web www.fsrinc.com
EXPLORER
XP
MATRIX SWITCHER SERIES

2 Explorer XP Matrix

Explorer XP Matrix 3
PROPRIETARY INFORMATION
All information in this manual is proprietary to and the property of FSR inc.
This publication is protected by the Federal Copyright Law, with all
rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, transcribed, or
transmitted, in any form or by any means, without prior explicit
written permission from FSR inc.

4 Explorer XP Matrix
Operators Safety Summary
The general safety information in this summary is for operating personnel.
Do Not Remove Covers or PanelsThere are no user-serviceable parts within the unit. Removal of the top cover will expose dangerous voltages. To avoid
personal injury, do not remove the top cover. Do not operate the unit without the cover installed.
Power SourceThis product is intended to operate from a power source that will not apply more than 230 volts rms between the supply conductors or between
both supply conductor and ground. A protective ground connection by way of grounding conductor in the power cord is essential for safe operation.
Grounding the Product This product is grounded through the grounding conductor of the power cord. To avoid electrical shock, plug the power cord into a
properly wired receptacle before connecting to the product input or output terminals. A protective-ground connection by way of the grounding conductor in
the power cord is essential for safe operation.
Use the Proper Power CordUse only the power cord and connector specified for your product. Use only a power cord that is in good condition. Refer cord
and connector changes to qualified service personnel.
Use the Proper FuseTo avoid fire hazard, use only the fuse having identical type, voltage rating, and current rating characteristics. Refer fuse replacement to
qualified service personnel.
Do Not Operate in Explosive AtmospheresTo avoid explosion, do not operate this product in an explosive atmosphere.
Terms In This Manual
WARNING Highlights an operating procedure, practice, condition, statement, etc., which, if not strictly observed, could result in injury to or death of personnel. NOTE
Highlights an essential operating procedure, condition or statement.
CAUTION The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literatureaccompanying the appliance.
AVERTISSEMENT!Le point d´exclamation dans un triangle equilatéral signale à alerter l´utilisateur qu´il y a des instructions d´operation et d´entretien tres importantes
dans la litérature qui accompagne l´appareil.
VORSICHTein Ausrufungszeichen innerhalb eines gleichwinkeligen Dreiecks dient dazu,den Benutzer auf wichtige Bedienungs-und Wartungsanweisungen in der Dem
Great beiliegenden Literatur aufmerksam zu machen.
WARNINGThe rear panel ON/OFF switch does not disconnect the unit from input AC power. To facilitate disconnection of AC power, the power cord must be connected to
an accessible outlet near the unit. Building Branch Circuit Protection: For 115 V use 20 A, for 230 V use 8 A.
WARNINGWhen the COMPASS is used in the 230-volt mode, a UL listed line cord rated for 250 volts at 15 amps must be used and must conform to IEC-227 and IEC-245
standards. This cord will be fitted with a tandem prong-type plug.
Terms As Marked on Equipment
CAUTIONHighlights an operating procedure, practice, condition, statement, etc., which, if not strictly observed, could result in injury to or death
of personnel.
CAUTION The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing)
instructions in the literatureaccompanying the appliance.
AVERTISSEMENT! Le point d´exclamation dans un triangle equilatéral signale à alerter l´utilisateur qu´il y a des instructions d´operation et d´entretien tres
importantes dans la litérature qui accompagne l´appareil
VORSICHT Ein Ausrufungszeichen innerhalb eines gleichwinkeligen Dreiecks dient dazu, den Benutzer auf wichtige Bedienungs-und Wartungsanweisungen in der
Dem Great beiliegenden Literatur aufmerksam zu machen.
NOTE This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at the users own expense.

Explorer XP Matrix 5
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1 7
INTRODUCTION
FEATURES
APPLICATIONS
CHAPTER 2 11
OPERATION
MENU TREE
CHAPTER 3 19
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
CHAPTER 4 23
INSTALLATION
CHAPTER 5 27
EXPLORER CONTROLLER SOFTWARE OPERATION
CHAPTER 6 41
SERIAL CONTROL SETUP

6 Explorer XP Matrix

Explorer XP Matrix 7
1
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
FEATURES
APPLICATIONS

8 Explorer XP Matrix

Explorer XP Matrix 9
INTRODUCTION
The Explorer XP Series of Matrix Switchers offer a unique blend of features, performance and value
not found in other products.
The Explorers are available in Composite Video, S-Video,Component Video and RGBHV and are
available with and without stereo balanced audio. Matrix sizes currently include 8 x 8, 12 x 8 and
16 x 8 and 16 x 16.
All Explorer XP Series Matrix Switchers provide greater than 450 MHz of bandwidth to ensure that
the source image and the switched image vary at little as possible. Audio equipped units feature 20 to
20 KHz frequency response with < .05%THD, independent trim control for each input and full range
volume control for each output. Audio and video may be switched together or individually.
The Explorer XP also offers more choices for remote control. The optional built-in Web server
provides access to all set-up and operational modes from anyplace on the network. An RS-232 port
provides remote control from traditional control systems and computers equipped with the Windows
based Explorer Remote Application included with each unit.
Bandwidth and Frequency Response
At the heart of the Explorer Series is a design that delivers high bandwidth and flat frequency
response to insure that the original image is switched and distributed without being altered. Proper
signal reproduction is much more than bandwidth. Frequency response plays a vital role in the
clarity and accuracy of an image.
GenLock and RGB Delay Switching
All of the Explorers designed for use with standard video sources (composite, component, S-video)
have a GenLock input. This insures that all switching is synchronized with the house sync.The
RGBHV Explorers have a user definable RGB delay switch mode. When enabled and a new route
selected, the H and V sync switch on command and black is sent down the RGB lines. This allows
downstream equipment to lock into the new signal before anything is visible on the screen. After the
preset interval, the RGB signal is then restored making the switch appear as clean as possible.
Presets and I/O Groups
The Explorers offer up to 32 presets, one for each input and output button. Presets make a very
easy way to reconfigure all of the routes in a system with the touch of a button. I/O groups are
handy if there are some inputs or outputs that must be isolated from one another. An example would
be that certain inputs from the executive boardroom may never wish to be switched to the video
conferencing system.
Audio
Audio has become a key component of nearly every installation. The Explorers offer stereo balanced
audio with 20-20KHz frequency response with <.05%THD. Each audio input has a 20 dB trim
range for audio level matching. In addition, each output has a full range volume control to eliminate
the need for costly outboard volume controls. Audio may be switched and controlled independent of
the video.
Web Server
Remote control and ease of control are two of the most important items with any piece of electronics.
These issues have traditionally been dealt with through a dedicated control system. While being very
capable, a dedicated control system can be quite costly and me be overkill for a particular
installation. The Explorers feature a fully functional Web Server. Anyone or anything that can surf
the web, can control the Explorer’s switching and set-up functions. Password protection is provided
to limit access to those that require it. Although not fully customizable, inputs and outputs may be
named in order to make the control more intuitive.

10 Explorer XP Matrix
Serial Control
In addition to the Web Server, the Explorers include an RS- 232 port for integration with a control
system or for use with the included Windows based Remote Application. All switching and set-up
functions are available through the serial port for access by a control system or through the included
application.
FEATURES
♦ 450 MHz RGB Bandwidth
♦ Stereo Audio Input / Outputs Compatible with Balanced and Unbalanced Audio Signals
♦ Audio Output Volume Control and Mute
♦ Virtual Input Gain Trim Levels for Each Audio Input
♦ Audio-Follow-Video Switching or Breakaway Switching
♦ RGB Delay Mode for Seamless High Resolution Video Sources Switching
♦ Vertical Interval Switching for Synchronized Broadcast Video Sources
♦ Control From Front Panel, Remote Panel or Remotely via RS-232
♦ 16 to 32 Configuration Presets
♦ Universal AC Voltage Input with an IEC standard power cord.
♦ Windows software that configures or operates all variations of the matrix switcher
♦ 4 Programmable I/O Groups
♦ IP Addressable Ethernet Port option (RJ-45)
APPLICATIONS
♦ Boardrooms
♦ Classrooms
♦ House of Worship
♦ Rental and Staging
♦ Convention Centers
♦ Divisible Ballrooms

Explorer XP Matrix 11
2
CHAPTER 2
OPERATION
MENU TREE

12 Explorer XP Matrix

Explorer XP Matrix 13
OPERATION
System Control:
The matrix switcher can be controlled in three ways, directly from the front panel, serial commands
via the built in RS-232 port and though the optional web server card. The front panel is the most
direct method and should be used for initial setup. The RS-232 port may be connected to a control
system like AMX or Crestron, or be connecter to a PC running the windows program provide with
the unit.
Manual Front Panel Operation:
The front panel can be used to enter a new route or view the current connections to single input or
output for video, audio or both. They can also be used to save and execute presets, adjust output
volumes, adjust input level trims, protect output connection and perform all system setup.
Direct Switching Mode:
To enter a new selection or view a current connection the user may enter the data with respect to the
Input or output select buttons on the front panel.
When an Input button is pressed prior to entering a new connection or viewing a current connection,
its associated Red and Green LED blink and the outputs connected to it, if any, will light without
blinking. The Green LED’s indicate an audio connections and the Red indicate video. After you view
the current configuration you may view another input, press "TAKE" or "ESC" to clear the blinking
LED’s or make alteration.
To add or remove a connection, first select the type of connection required. The default operation
is Audio follows Video; if Audio only or Video only operation is desired, the corresponding button
(Audio or Video) has to be depressed before depressing the desired output button for the new
requested destination, its LED(s) will also blink. The connection is executed by pressing "TAKE";
then the input and output LED’s stop blinking and change to fully illuminated. Multiple destinations
may be implemented by selecting multiple outputs prior to pressing the "TAKE" button.
In a similar way, operation can also be performed beginning from the output; after depressing an
Output button, it blinks and the input connected to it, if any, light without blinking.
When a new input is selected, it blinks, showing a new connection is pending. Pressing the TAKE
button executes the new connection and both lights are illuminated.

14 Explorer XP Matrix
Preset Switching Mode:
In this mode the user can store and recall frequently used configurations for easy recall with a single
button. The memory stores all input / output connection as well as the current audio level for each
output. Input level trims are not to be stored or recalled by any preset operations.
To select a Preset configuration the user will press the Preset button on the front panel. This action
will change the display to read “ENTER PRESET NUM” and lights the LED of the current Preset
selection if any. To operate in this mode the user will simply press one of the 16 TO 32 I/O buttons
on unit, its LED will then blink. The new configuration is then implemented by pressing TAKE.
To save a new preset, the PRESET button should be pressed and held for 2 seconds. The display will
read “SELECT AN I/O BUTTON”. The operator may choose an unused preset button or overwrite
an existing one. The operator will then select the button he wishes to use to recall the new preset,
the LED will blink and the display should read “TAKE TO CONFIRM ESC TO CANCEL”. The
operator will then press TAKE to confirm or ESC to escape.
System Setup:
(Program mode)
To enter the Setup Menu, press both the AUDIO and VIDEO together and hold for 2 seconds.
When in the menu the four control buttons change their functionality to the descriptions above the
buttons. The arrow "UP" and "DOWN" buttons will be used from scroll about the menu function and
used to ramp the audio levels up and down in the Audio menu.
The Select button will be used to select the currently high-lighted menu item.
The ESC button will be used to escape from a selected menu item.
To exit the menu, scroll down to EXIT and press Select.

Explorer XP Matrix 15
MATRIX LCD READOUT MENU TREE
Output Audio Level:
The output audio level control has the range of +5 to -45 dB. When the minimum volume is reached
the output will be muted, thus providing the best possible isolation.
To adjust the output level use the up/down buttons untill the desired output is on the LCD is
indicated. Press Select, then use the up or down buttons to adjust the setting. When the desired level
is reached press ESC to select the next output.
Press ESC to save your current setting to non-volatile memory and return to the main menu mode.
Audio Input Trim:
The input audio trim controls have a range of +15 to -5 dB.
To adjust use the up and down arrows in main menu mode till the LCD reads AUDIO INPUT
LEVEL, then press Select. You are now in input select state.
Use up/down buttons till the desired input is displayed on the LCD. Press Select, then use the up or
down buttons to go to the desired setting. When the desired level is reached press ESC to select the
next output.

16 Explorer XP Matrix
Press ESC save your current setting to non-volatile memory and return to the main menu mode.
I / O Group:
Each input and output can be placed into one of five groups (NO GROUP, GROUP 1 through 4).
These groups are used to classify the inputs and outputs. Once an output is placed in a group it will
only connect to a like inputs or the unit will not let different group interconnections. The default on
initial power up shall be NO GROUP for all inputs and outputs.
To change the group settings in the main menu mode scroll up or down untill I/O GROUP is
displayed on the LCD, then press Select. You can now use the up or down arrows to display an input
or output on the LCD, then press Select. Pressing the Select button will scroll through the group
selections, 1,2,3,4, NO GROUP. Press ESC to save the new group setting and return to I/O selection
menu.
Press ESC to return to the main menu mode.
RGB Delay:
The RGB video signal switching can be delayed from the sync switching during switching. The
RGB signals can be delayed up to 10 seconds. This may be useful when the display device displays
an unacceptable image during switching. The RGB Delay sets the global delay time, and the Delay
Outputs let you individually select which output is to be delayed. All selected outputs will have the
same delay time period.
To adjust the delay time while in the main menu mode scroll up or down till RGB DELAY is
displayed on the LCD, then press Select. You then use the up/down buttons to select the delay time
in seconds and tenths of seconds. When done, press ESC to save and return you to the main menu.
Delay Output:
Lets the user select which outputs the RGB delay should affect.
To select an output while in the main menu mode scroll up or down untill DELAY OUTPUT is
displayed on the LCD, then press Select. You then use the up/down buttons to display an output, and
then press SELECT to set delay state on that output. Use the Select button to toggle between DELAY
and NO DELAY. To save the new delay settings press ESC.
Switch Mode
The switch mode enables the unit to provide glitch free switching when a genlock signal is available.
In the Reference IN 1= YES mode on RGB-HV units, the unit will look at the current output signal
for the first vertical interval then switch. If no vertical sync signal is detected within 22 ms, the unit

Explorer XP Matrix 17
will look for sync on the first vertical sync connector (GENLOCK) for up to 22ms. If no sync is
detected after 22 ms, the unit will "crash" switch.
In the Reference IN 1= YES mode, on composite, s-video, and component units, the unit will
monitor the GENLOCK input connector for up to 22 ms subsequent to a switch command. If no
sync signal is detected after 22 ms, the unit will "crash" switch.
In the Reference IN 1= NO mode on RGB-HV units, the unit will look at the current output signal
for the first vertical interval then switch. If there is no sync signal available on the output, the unit
will wait 22 ms before switching.
In the Reference IN 1= NO mode on composite, s-video, and component units, the unit will switch
22 ms after the switch command is received.
To change the setting from the main menu scroll up/down till SWITCH MODE is displayed on the
LCD, and press select. The matrix will display REFERENCE_IN 1 on the top line and NO on the
bottom. Use the up/down buttons to toggle between YES and NO. Press ESC to save your current
setting to non-volatile memory and return to the main menu mode.
Output Protect
The output protect lets the user protect selected outputs from being changed inadvertently from the
front panel, preset switching or from any control inputs. Protection must be removed to make any
changes to an output.
To protect an output from the main menu mode scroll up or down until PROTECT OUTPUT is
displayed on the LCD, then press SELECT. You then use the up/down buttons to display an output,
and then press SELECT to set protection on that output. Use the SELECT buttons to toggle between
PROT and UNPROT. Changing the output (using up/down buttons) saves the protection setting on
the formally selected output. Pressing ESC returns to the main menu.
Menu Exit
To exit program mode, press the TAKE button under MENU EXIT.

18 Explorer XP Matrix

Explorer XP Matrix 19
3
CHAPTER 3
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

20 Explorer XP Matrix