Hall Research Technologies VSA-51 User manual

VSA-51
Digital AV Room Control System
User Manual
&
Installation Guide
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Mail order: Hall Research, 1163 Warner Ave. Tustin, CA 92780
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CUSTOMER SUPPORT
INFORMATION
UMA1182 Rev. 1.41

Digital AV Room Control System
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TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL
Hall Research and the Hall Research Logo ( ) are trademarks of Hall Research.
HDMI™ is a registered trademark of HDMI Licensing LLC. Any other trademarks
mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be the property of the trademark owners.
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
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
designed 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 intended 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 their 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.

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Table of Contents
1Introduction........................................................................................................3
1.1 System Components..................................................................................................................3
1.2System Diagram.........................................................................................................................4
2Hardware............................................................................................................5
2.1 VSA-51-R...................................................................................................................................5
2.2 VSA-UI-DP.................................................................................................................................8
2.3 VSA-UI-8..................................................................................................................................11
2.4 VSA-C-DP................................................................................................................................12
2.5 VSA-H-DP................................................................................................................................13
2.6 VSA-V-DP................................................................................................................................14
2.7 VSA-MNT.................................................................................................................................15
2.8 VSA-PGSNS ............................................................................................................................23
3Software ...........................................................................................................24
3.1 IP Settings................................................................................................................................25
3.2 VSA IP Manager.......................................................................................................................28
4Troubleshooting & FAQs ................................................................................42
4.1 Video Issues.............................................................................................................................42
4.2 Audio Issues.............................................................................................................................42
4.3 Electrical Issues .......................................................................................................................42
4.4 Web page / Network Issues......................................................................................................43
5Specifications ..................................................................................................44

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1 Introduction
The VSA-51 is the latest addition to Hall Research’s Swit ch-Ca t ™ room control product line. It offers true flexibility in
access and control making it ideal for K-12 classrooms, conference rooms and more.
All configuration and control software is embedded in the receiver and served over HTTP to a browser which means you
can access and control the device from a PC, Mac, smart phone, or tablet. Custom programmable commands offer
advanced control of the device and 3rd party equipment. Software features include embedded device control, task
scheduling and automation, theft detection, and more. The VSA-51 allows for up to 5 modular input sources (2x VGA, 2x
composite, 1x HDMI) to be switched to a single projector or display along with audio. In addition, auxiliary RS232 and
contact closures can provide advanced control options.
1.1 System Components
The VSA-51 system consists of multiple components. Other than the receiver, all components are optional which offers
flexibility to use only the components necessary. Available components are:
VSA-51-R - System Receiver
The receiver is the central component of the VSA-51. It handles all switching and hosts the web-based software that runs
the system. Input plates and User Interface panels connect directly to and receive power from the receiver.
VSA-UI-DP - User Interface Panel
The VSA-UI-DP is a dual-gang Decora®plate user interface panel. It has dedicated volume and power controls as well as
8 customizable buttons that can be configured to perform any System Action. The clear button caps are removable,
allowing custom labels to be inserted. The VSA-UI-DP includes an auxiliary serial port (RS-232) for controlling a
secondary serial device. It also includes an IR receiver with pass through terminals for IR signal routing. It can also
generate IR commands for the most popular IR standards (customer should know the format of IR standard and IR code).
VSA-UI-8 - 8 Button User Interface Expansion
The VSA-UI-8 is an optional 8 port expansion module for the User Interface Panel. Generally it is used to control other
devices such as DVR or External Switchers. The buttons can be programmed to issue RS-232 to either of the 2 ports, IR,
command, control discrete (contact closure/open collector) output states, and more.
VSA-H-DP - HDMI and Audio Sender Plate
The VSA-H-DP is a modular input plate that sends HDMI and audio to the receiver via 2x UTP cables. Note that since the
Receiver has a built in amplifier, all input Decora® plates need to have their own audio source. Since HDMI has digital
audio embedded in the PC, you may have to setup your source to output separate R/L audio.
VSA-V-DP - VGA/YPbPr and Audio Sender Plate
The VSA-V-DP is a modular input plate that sends VGA or YPbPr and audio to the receiver via 2x UTP cables. It also
features a local output for directing video and audio back to a local console. The VSA-51 System can accommodate up to
2x VSA-V-DP inputs.
VSA-C-DP - Composite Video and Audio Sender Plate
The VSA-C-DP is a modular input plate that sends composite video and audio to the receiver via a single UTP cable. The
VSA-51 System can accommodate up to 2x VSA-C-DP inputs.
VSA-MNT - Ceiling Projector Mount w/Receiver Bay
The VSA-MNT is a ceiling projector drop mount with locking cage. The projector mount is universally compatible with most
projectors. The VSA-51-R mounts inside the cage keeping connections securely fastened and all electronics below the
ceiling.
VSA-PGSNS - Non-Invasive Priority Page Sensor
The VSA-PGSNS is an optional kit to enable non-invasive Page Sense Mute feature.

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1.2 System Diagram
VSA-51 System Diagram

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2 Hardware
2.1 VSA-51-R
The VSA-51-R is the central component of the VSA-51 hardware installation. The User Interface panel and input
plates connect to the receiver via UTP cable. The receiver also connects directly to the display, audio, and relay
devices.
VSA-51-R Front
1. VGA input #1. Connect to a VSA-V-DP via 2x UTP cables.
2. VGA input #2. Connect to a VSA-V-DP via 2x UTP cables.
3. HDMI input. Connect to a VSA-H-DP via 2x UTP cables.
4. Composite input #1. Connect to a VSA-C-DP via 1x UTP cable.
5. Composite input #2. Connect to a VSA-C-DP via 1x UTP cable.
6. Discrete outputs via Phoenix connector.
7. IR output via 3.5mm jack (use with Optional IR Emitter Cable Model CIR-EMT).
8. User Interface input. Connect to VSA-UI-DP via 1x UTP cable.
VSA-51-R Rear
9. Power input. Accepts 18-24VDC.
10. IP/LAN for network based configuration and control.
11. Preamp Audio output. Line level via 3.5mm jack.
12. Page Sensor input for optional page sensor kit (VSA-PGSNS See Section 2.8).

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13. Microphone input via Phoenix connector is designed as a differential input to help eliminate noise.
14. Speaker terminals for use with 8 or 16 Ohm speakers.
15. Receiver serial. Connects to the primary display.
16. Video Output to display via HDMI, composite video or VGA/YPbPr.
2.1.1 Mounting the VSA-51-R
The VSA-51-R ships with 2 “L” brackets attached to its sides (see photo below). This bracket is reversible and the flange
can wrap around under the product, or stick-out.
When you install the VSA-51-R in the VSA-MNT ceiling projector drop mount cage (see section 2.7), the brackets point
inward and you use the supplied #6 screws and washers to attach the receiver to the cage.
NOTE
The Mic input expects a line level signal, so you may need external preamp for low level dynamic
microphones. There is no phantom power provided at the mic input. In most K-12 installations wireless
(RF or IR based) mics are used that have line-level output. We have found that most condenser and some
dynamic mics may work without external preamps if you turn up the mic volume on the system.
Use the following diagram for connection of external preamp (such as wireless mic receiver) to the
system. Ground referenced means that the external preamp has a connection to ground (the AC cord has a
ground prong), in that case if the preamp does not provide a balanced (differential) output, you should
not tie the return of your source to the ground of the VSA-51 lest you create a ground loop. But if you are
sure that your external preamp is floating (its AC cord has no ground prong), then it may be advisable to
connect the negative input signal to ground at the VSA-51 receiver.
Mic Wiring Diagram
NOTE
The Audio Amp is designed to drive loads equal to or greater than 8 Ω. Using lower loads may cause over-
current shutdown of the Audio amp, which would require an All-Mute procedure to reset the amp. It is
recommended that when using a single speaker for each side to use 8 or 16 Ωspeakers. The amp can drive
around 42 watts total when using 8 Ωspeakers, which may be loud for a small room. Using 16 Ωspeakers
will cut the power delivered by half.
To drive 2 speakers from each side(total of 4 speakers in the room), connect two 16 Ω speakers in parallel
or two 4Ωor 8 Ω speakers in series as shown below. Never connect two 8 Ωspeakers in parallel!

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When you install VSA-51-R on any other surface (such as drywall) you have the option to flip the brackets and have the
flange outside for easy access to mounting holes.
The “L” Brackets of VSA-51-R
Bracket installation for surface mounting
Bracket installation for vault mounting
(Use the included #6 screws and washers from outside of bottom of vault to attach the receiver)

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2.2 VSA-UI-DP
The VSA-UI-DP is a dual-gang User Interface panel for controlling the VSA-51. It can be mounted in any dual-
gang Decora®standard mounting plate. The VSA-UI-DP receives power directly from the VSA-51-R receiver
via the single Cat5 cable so no extra wiring is necessary.
VSA-UI-DP Front
1. Volume Up and Down. Adjusts the volume for the active source (A/V or mic) input.
2. Mute. Toggles mute for the active audio (A/V or Mic).
3. A/V Audio Selector. If this is active the audio controls will adjust audio for the currently selected AV source input.
4. Mic Audio Selector. If this is active the audio controls will adjust audio for the mic input.
5. Volume Level Indicator. Indicates volume level of the active audio (A/V or Mic).
6. IR Receiver. Receives IR signal and passes through to the receiver and outputs on 2 wire captive screw terminal
on the rear of the unit.
7. AV Source Selection. These are the default source selection buttons. Each of these buttons can be programmed
for other actions and relabeled accordingly.
8. Misc buttons. If all AV inputs are utilized then there will be 3 available buttons for misc operation. These could be
programmed for example to turn projector on/off or move a motorized projection screen. All configuration of the
buttons is done through the Web Manager.
NOTE
If you find that a particular input gets very loud quickly with volume indicator is still near bottom, then
you can specify a Max Volume for that input in terms of % of absolute maximum. In that way each
increment of the volume control will be smaller and the display will be normalized to the new max.

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VSA-UI-DP Rear
9. Receiver RJ45 port. Connects directly to “UI Control” port on VSA-51-R receiver via Cat5 cable. This link
handles communication and sends power to the UI panel from the receiver.
10. Expansion Header for optional extended control panel (VSA-UI-8).
11. IR/Serial Port. Provides captive screw terminals for IR and secondary RS232 output. The diagram below shows
the pin out for the Phoenix connector.

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2.2.1 Changing Button Labels
The VSA-UI-DP comes with a printed sheet of common button labels. These labels are pre-scored to the size of the
buttons on the VSA-UI-DP or VSA-UI-8. See the example below.
Button Label Sheet
Note that some of these buttons may be missing from the sheet as they are already applied to the panels from the factory.
If you need a label that is not already on the sheet then you can print to the appropriate size, cut to shape and apply it to
the button face. Adhesive backing will keep the label firmly applied to the button face but is not entirely necessary as the
clear cap will hold the label in place.
To change the button labels follow these steps:
1. Remove the UI panel from the wall plate.
2. Remove the 6 Phillips head screws securing the metal back plate to the rear of the unit.
3. Remove the 2 exposed Phillips head screws securing the 8 button faceplate. Remove the faceplate to expose
the buttons.
4. Remove the clear plastic button cap. The cap can be easily popped off with a flat head screwdriver.
5. Peel off the existing label and apply a new one. Set it gently in place and try not to press it too firmly or it will
wrinkle. Make sure to keep it properly aligned.
6. Re-apply the button cap by snapping it into place.
7. Re-attach the metal faceplate.
8. Re-attach the metal back plate.
9. Re-attach the UI panel to the wall plate (if necessary).

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2.2.2 Recovering from Audio Amp Shutdown
In rare instances it is possible for the audio amp in the Receiver to shut down due to an instantaneous over current
condition. The amp requires 8 Ω or higher load on each side. If the load has lower resistance and if you have a large
impulse on the audio input that exceeds several volts, the audio amp will shut-down to protect against damage. You can
recover from this condition using a “Double Mute” procedure whereby both the mic and the AV source volume are muted
at the same time. This will reset the audio amp and bring it out of shutdown.
2.3 VSA-UI-8
The VSA-UI-8 expands the UI panel capability by adding 8 additional buttons. Each button is programmable via the Web
Manager software. The VSA-UI-8 connects directly to the VSA-UI-DP via a 16 pin ribbon cable. The header also provides
power to the unit.
VSA-UI-8 Front and Rear
1. Header port connects to the expansion port on the VSA-UI-DP.
Changing Button Labels
The procedure for changing the VSA-UI-8 button labels is the same as for the VSA-UI-DP except there is no metal back-
plate to remove. Follow steps 3-7 from section 2.2.1 above.
Double-Mute
If the system has no amplified audio output whatsoever, it could be that the audio amp is shut-
down due to over current. To recover from this condition, mute the microphone and the A/V source
simultaneously. This will reset the amp. Upon un-muting either source, the Amp should be working

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2.4 VSA-C-DP
The VSA-C-DP is a modular input plate that sends composite video and audio to the receiver via a single UTP cable.
VSA-C-DP Front and Rear
1. Composite Video input.
2. Left and Right audio input on RCA connectors.
3. Power LED indicates power received from VSA-51-R. This should be active as long as the connection is good
and the VSA-51-R has power.
4. RJ45 Port A connects to Port A of CV1 or CV2 on the VSA-51-R via Cat5 cable.

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2.5 VSA-H-DP
The VSA-H-DP is a modular input plate that sends HDMI and audio to the receiver via 2x UTP cables.
VSA-H-DP Front and Rear
1. HDMI input with threaded insert for compatible locking HDMI cables.
2. Left and Right audio input on RCA connectors.
3. Power LED indicates power received from VSA-51-R. This should be active as long as the connection is good
and the VSA-51-R has power.
4. RJ45 Port A connects to Port A of HDMI/DVI on the VSA-51-R via Cat5e/6 cable.
5. RJ45 Port B connects to Port B of HDMI/DVI on the VSA-51-R via Cat5e/6 cable.
The HDMI/DVI connection from VSA-H-DP input wall plate to the VSA-51-R receiver consists of two twisted pair (UTP or
STP) cables. The receiver labels the pair of RJ45s as input 3 and each RJ45 is designated as Port A and Port B.
Port A carries high-speed digital video data, while port b carries low bandwidth audio, and handshake data. Therefore the
type of cables used can affect the distances that can be achieved.
For best results (particularly for distances over 50 ft / 15 meters), it is recommended that 23 gauge Cat6 (or higher) cable
be used for connection of Port B of the HDMI/DVI. All other UTP connections on the VSA-51 can be either Cat5e or Cat6
regardless of the distance.

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2.6 VSA-V-DP
The VSA-V-DP is a modular input plate that sends VGA or YPbPr and audio to the receiver via 2x UTP cables. It also
features a local output for directing video and audio back to a local console.
VSA-V-DP Front and Rear
1. VGA input accepts both RGBHV and YPbPr signals on an HD15 connector.
2. Local VGA Output loops the VGA input signal out for use at a local display.
3. Power LED indicates power received from VSA-51-R. This should be active as long as the connection is good
and the VSA-51-R has power.
4. Audio Output loops the Audio input out for use at a local audio monitor.
5. Audio input accepts stereo audio on a 3.5mm jack.
6. RJ45 Port A connects to Port A of VGA1 or VGA2 on the VSA-51-R via Cat5 cable.
7. RJ45 Port B connects to Port B of VGA1 or VGA2 on the VSA-51-R via Cat5 cable.

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2.7 VSA-MNT
The VSA-MNT is an optional projector ceiling drop mount system that comes in two variations: VSA-MNT-01 and VSA-
MNT-02. The VSA-MNT-01 consists of just a projector cage mount. The VSA-MNT-02 consists of a projector cage mount,
ceiling plate and pole.
2.7.1 VSA-MNT Ceiling Plate
The Ceiling Plate provides mounting support up to 50lbs for suspended ceilings. The plate fits within any standard 2’x2’ to
2’x4’ ceiling tiles and includes cutouts for Carlon B114R electrical boxes.
VSA-MNT Ceiling Plate

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2.7.1.1 Hardware

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WARNING
•The ceiling structure must be capable of supporting at least 5 times the weight of the projector and the CEILING
PLATE kit. Incorrect installation can cause the projector to fall and cause injury.
•Always install so that the load is carried by the ceiling support structure through the guide wires and quick locks
supplied.
•Use the specified bolts and screws in the specified places and tighten them firmly. Failure to do this could cause
injury if the projector falls.
CAUTION
•Do not attempt to perform this work by yourself.
•Manufacturer assumes absolutely no responsibility for injuries and damages that may occur due to improper
installation and handling.
•Avoid installing in locations where the temperature and humidity are excessively high, and where contact with any
water is possible. These can result in fire or electric shock.
•Do not install close to an air conditioner intake or outlet. Do not install in locations where there are excessive
amounts of dust, oily smoke or tobacco smoke. Fire could result.
•Do not block the ventilation holes. Leave sufficient clearance in regard to the surroundings to avoid blocking the
ventilation. The internal temperature could elevate and possibly result in fire.
•Do not install in locations where there is excessive vibration or impact. Injury and damage could result from the
projector mount falling.
2.7.1.2 Installation

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Ceiling Plate Assembly
1. Install the (#3) M6 screws into the ends of the (#1) ceiling t-bar plate. Leave enough room to slide over the ceiling
grid bars. See fig 1.
2. Install the (#7) ceiling pipe adapter onto the (#1) plate using the hardware (#2, 4, 8, 9). Do not tighten at this time.
See fig 2.
3. Determine where the 1 ½”pipe will be located in the ceiling. The ceiling plate center point can be located
anywhere within 4 3/16” from any outer edge of the tile See fig 3.Place a mark on the location and drill a small
hole through the ceiling tile.
4. Remove the tile adjacent to the tile where the pipe mount will be installed (for easy access).
5. Place the ceiling plate kit into the grid and adjust the mount to the center of the pilot hole drilled into the tile. See
fig 3.
6. Using a pencil trace the inside of the Ceiling pipe adapter onto the ceiling tile.
7. Remove the ceiling plate and the ceiling tile.
8. Using a knife, saw blade or hole saw, cutout the area marked by a pencil. Include enough clearance for the pipe
and lock screw (#12).
9. Replace the ceiling tile and the ceiling plate mount into the ceiling grid. Check the alignment of the clearance hole
for the pipe and the hardware on the (#7) ceiling pipe adapter. Leave the M6 screws on the ends to the t-bar
loose at this time.