Kramer VM-80A User manual

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
Preliminary
USER MANUAL
Models:
VM-1610, 1:10 Balanced Audio-Stereo Distributor
VM-80A, 1:8 Audio Distributor

Contents
i
Contents
1Introduction 1
2Getting Started 1
2.1 Quick Start 2
3Overview 3
4Your VM-1610 and VM-80A Distribution Amplifiers 3
4.1 Your VM-1610 1:10 Balanced Audio-Stereo Distributor 3
4.2 Your VM-80A 1:8 Audio Distributor 5
5Installing the VM-1610 in a Rack 6
6Connecting the VM-1610 and VM-80A 7
6.1 Connecting the VM-1610 Distribution Amplifier 7
6.2 Connecting the VM-80A Distribution Amplifier 8
6.2.1 Changing the VM-80A Default Mode 10
7Technical Specifications 10
Figures
Figure 1: VM-1610 1:10 Balanced Audio-Stereo Distributor 4
Figure 2: VM-80A 1:8 Audio Distributor Functions 5
Figure 3: Connecting the VM-1610 in a 1:10 Configuration 8
Figure 4: Connecting the VM-80A in a 1:8 Configuration 9
Tables
Table 1: VM-1610 1:10 Balanced Audio-Stereo Distributor Functions 5
Table 2: VM-80A 1:8 Audio Distributor Functions 5
Table 3: Technical Specifications 10

Introduction
1
1
1 Introduction
Welcome to Kramer Electronics! Since 1981, Kramer Electronics has been
providing a world of unique, creative, and affordable solutions to the vast
range of problems that confront the video, audio, presentation, and
broadcasting professional on a daily basis. In recent years, we have
redesigned and upgraded most of our line, making the best even better! Our
1,000-plus different models now appear in 11 groups1
Thank you for purchasing the Kramer VM-1610 1:10 Balanced Audio-
Stereo Distributor and/or the VM-80A 1:8 Audio Distributor, which are
ideal for:
that are clearly
defined by function.
•Any professional A/V system requiring high quality signal
distribution
•Recording studios and live sound reinforcement systems
•Rental and staging applications
Each package includes the following items:
•The VM-1610 and/or the VM-80A
•Power cord2
•This user manual
3
2 Getting Started
We recommend that you:
•Unpack the equipment carefully and save the original box and
packaging materials for possible future shipment
•Review the contents of this user manual
•Use Kramer high-performance high-resolution cables4
1 GROUP 1: Distribution Amplifiers; GROUP 2: Switchers and Matrix Switchers; GROUP 3: Control Systems;
GROUP 4: Format/Standards Converters; GROUP 5: Range Extenders and Repeaters; GROUP 6: Specialty AV Products;
GROUP 7: Scan Converters and Scalers; GROUP 8: Cables and Connectors; GROUP 9: Room Connectivity;
GROUP 10: Accessories and Rack Adapters; GROUP 11: Sierra Products
2 We recommend that you use only the power cord supplied with this device
3 Download up-to-date Kramer user manuals from our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
4 The complete list of Kramer cables is on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Getting Started
2
2.1 Quick Start
This quick start chart summarizes the basic setup and operation steps.

Overview
3
3
3 Overview
The VM-1610 is a high-performance distribution amplifier for balanced
stereo signals. It can also be configured as one 1:10 or two 1:5 balanced
stereo audio distribution amplifiers.
The VM-1610 features:
•Grouped audio level controls
•Configuration as a 1:10 or 2x1:5 DA
•A signal to noise ratio of 92dB @1Vpp
•A standard 1U 19” rack mount size
The VM-80A is a high-performance distribution amplifier for balanced
stereo audio signals. It can be configured as one 1:8 or two 1:4 balanced
stereo audio distribution amplifiers.
The VM-80A features:
•Grouped audio level controls
•Configuration as a 1:8 or 2x1:4 DA
•A signal to noise ratio of 100dB @1Vpp
•Compact desktop size. Two units can be rack mounted side-by-
side in a 1U rack space with the optional RK-1 adapter
To achieve the best performance:
•Use only good quality connection cables1
•Avoid interference from neighboring electrical appliances that
may adversely influence signal quality and position your Kramer
products away from moisture, excessive sunlight and dust
to avoid interference,
deterioration in signal quality due to poor matching, and elevated
noise levels (often associated with low quality cables).
4 Your VM-1610 and VM-80A Distribution Amplifiers
Section 4.1 defines the VM-1610 and section 4.2 defines the VM-80A
distribution amplifiers.
4.1 Your VM-1610 1:10 Balanced Audio-Stereo Distributor
Figure 1and Table 1define the VM-1610.
1 Available from Kramer Electronics on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VM-1610 and VM-80A Distribution Amplifiers
4
Figure 1: VM-1610 1:10 Balanced Audio-Stereo Distributor

Your VM-1610 and VM-80A Distribution Amplifiers
5
5
Table 1: VM-1610 1:10 Balanced Audio-Stereo Distributor Functions
#
Feature
Function
1 POWER Switch Illuminated power switch to turn the unit on and off
2 CH 2 LEVEL (LEFT, RIGHT) Trimmers Controls the left and right audio gains of channel 2
3 MODE (1:10, 2x1:5) Button Press to choose 2x1:5 output, release to choose 1:10
output
4 CH 1 LEVEL (LEFT, RIGHT) Trimmers Controls the left and right audio gains of channel 1
5 CHANNEL 1 OUT Terminal Blocks Connect to the channel 1 balanced stereo acceptors (1
to 5)
6 CHANNEL 1 INPUT Terminal Block Connects the a balanced stereo source 1
7 CHANNEL 2 INPUT Terminal Block Connects the a balanced stereo source 2
8 CHANNEL 2 OUT Terminal Blocks Connect to the channel 1 balanced stereo acceptors (6
to 10) or connect to the channel 2 balanced stereo
acceptors (1 to 5)
9 Power Connector with Fuse AC connector enabling power supply to the unit
4.2 Your VM-80A 1:8 Audio Distributor
Figure 2and Table 2define the VM-80A.
Figure 2: VM-80A 1:8 Audio Distributor Functions
Table 2: VM-80A 1:8 Audio Distributor Functions
#
Feature
Function
1 POWER Switch Illuminated power switch to turn the unit on and off
2 MODE 1:8 Button Press to choose the 1:8 output
3 MODE 2x1:4 Button Press to choose the 2x1:4 output
4 CH 2 LEVEL (LEFT, RIGHT) Trimmers Controls the left and right audio gains of channel 2
5 CH 1 LEVEL (LEFT, RIGHT) Trimmers Controls the left and right audio gains of channel 1
6 CHANNEL 1 INPUT Terminal Block Connects to the balanced stereo source 1

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Installing the VM-1610 in a Rack
6
#
Feature
Function
7 CHANNEL 2 INPUT Terminal Block Connects to the balanced stereo source 2
8 CHANNEL 1 OUT Terminal Blocks Connect to the channel 1 balanced stereo acceptors (1
to 4)
9 CHANNEL 2/1 OUT Terminal Blocks Connect to the channel 1 balanced stereo acceptors (5
to 8) or channel 2 balanced stereo acceptors (1 to 4)
10 Power Connector with Fuse AC connector enabling power supply to the unit
5 Installing the VM-1610 in a Rack
This section describes how to install the VM-1610 in a rack.
Before Installing in a rack How to Rack Mount
Before installing in a rack, be sure that the environment is
within the recommended range: To rack-mount a machine:
1. Attach both ear brackets to the
machine. To do so, remove the
screws from each side of the
machine (3 on each side), and
replace those screws through the
ear brackets.
2. Place the ears of the machine
against the rack rails, and insert the
proper screws (not provided)
through each of the four holes in the
rack ears.
Note that:
•In some models, the front panel
may feature built-in rack ears
•Detachable rack ears can be
removed for desktop use
•Always mount the machine in the
rack before you attach any cables
or connect the machine to the
power
•If you are using a Kramer rack
adapter kit (for a machine that is not
19"), see the Rack Adapters user
manual for installation instructions
(you can download it at:
http://www.kramerelectronics.com)
Operating temperature range +5°to +45°C (41°to 113°F)
Operating humidity range 10 to 90% RHL, non-condensing
Storage temperature range -20°to +70°C (-4°to 158°F)
Storage humidity range 5 to 95% RHL, non-condensing
!
CAUTION
!!
When installing on a 19" rack, avoid hazards by taking
care that:
1. It is located within the recommended environmental
conditions, as the operating ambient temperature of a
closed or multi unit rack assembly may exceed the
room ambient temperature.
2. Once rack mounted, enough air will still flow around
the machine.
3. The machine is placed straight in the correct
horizontal position.
4. You do not overload the circuit(s). When connecting
the machine to the supply circuit, overloading the
circuits might have a detrimental effect on overcurrent
protection and supply wiring. Refer to the appropriate
nameplate ratings for information. For example, for
fuse replacement, see the value printed on the
product label.
5. The machine is earthed (grounded) in a reliable way
and is connected only to an electricity socket with
grounding. Pay particular attention to situations where
electricity is supplied indirectly (when the power cord
is not plugged directly into the socket in the wall), for
example, when using an extension cable or a power
strip, and that you use only the power cord that is
supplied with the machine.

Connecting the VM-1610 and VM-80A
7
7
6 Connecting the VM-1610 and VM-80A
Section 6.1 describes how to connect the VM-1610 and section 6.2
describes how to connect VM-80A.
6.1 Connecting the VM-1610 Distribution Amplifier
To connect the VM-1610 in a 1:10 configuration, as shown in Figure 3, do
the following1
1. Connect the input source (for example, a balanced stereo audio player) to
the Channel 1 INPUT terminal block connector.
:
2. Connect the OUT terminal block connectors to up to 10 acceptors (for
example, balanced stereo audio recorders).
3. Release the MODE button to the 1:10 position.
4. Switch on the VM-1610.
The audio input is distributed to the audio outputs.
Note: The Channel 2 INPUT cannot be distributed to the 10 outputs,
only the Channel 1 INPUT.
5. Adjust the right and left audio levels by turning the CH1 and CH2 LEVEL
trimmers with a small screwdriver.
To connect the VM-1610 in a 2x1:5 configuration, do the following1:
1. Connect input source 1 (for example, a balanced stereo audio player) to the
Channel 1 INPUT terminal block connector.
2. Connect input source 2 (for example, a balanced stereo audio player) to the
Channel 2 INPUT terminal block connector.
3. Connect the Channel 1 OUT terminal block connectors to up to 5 acceptors
(for example, balanced stereo audio recorders).
4. Connect the Channel 2 OUT terminal block connectors to up to 5 acceptors
(for example, balanced stereo audio recorders).
5. Press in the MODE button to the 2x1:5 position.
6. Switch on the VM-1610.
The Channel 1 audio inputs are distributed to the Channel 1 audio outputs.
The Channel 2 audio inputs are distributed to the Channel 2 audio outputs.
1 Switch OFF the power on each device before connecting it to your VM-1610. After connecting your VM-1610, switch on
its power and then switch on the power on each device

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Connecting the VM-1610 and VM-80A
8
7. Adjust the right and left audio levels by turning the CH1 and CH2 LEVEL
trimmers with a small screwdriver.
Figure 3: Connecting the VM-1610 in a 1:10 Configuration
6.2 Connecting the VM-80A Distribution Amplifier
To connect the VM-80A in a 1:8 configuration, as shown in Figure 4, do the
following1
1. Connect the input source (for example, a balanced stereo audio player) to
the CH 1 INPUT terminal block connector.
:
2. Connect the OUT terminal block connectors to up to 8 acceptors (for
example, balanced stereo audio recorders).
3. Press the 1:8 MODE button.
4. Switch on the VM-80A.
The audio input is distributed to the audio outputs.
Note: CH 2 INPUT cannot be distributed to all 8 outputs, only the CH
1 INPUT can.
1 Switch OFF the power on each device before connecting it to your VM-80A. After connecting your VM-80A, switch on its
power and then switch on the power on each device

Connecting the VM-1610 and VM-80A
9
9
5. Adjust the right and left audio levels by turning the CH1 and CH2 LEVEL
trimmers with a small screwdriver.
To connect the VM-80A in a 2x1:4 configuration, do the following1
1. Connect input source 1 (for example, a balanced stereo audio player) to the
CH 1 INPUT terminal block connector.
:
2. Connect input source 2 (for example, a balanced stereo audio player) to the
CH 2 INPUT terminal block connector.
3. Connect the CH 1 OUT terminal block connectors to up to 4 acceptors (for
example, balanced stereo audio recorders).
4. Connect the CH 2 OUT terminal block connectors to up to 4 acceptors (for
example, balanced stereo audio recorders).
5. Switch on the VM-80A.
6. Press the 2x1:4 MODE button.
The Channel 1 audio inputs are distributed to the Channel 1 audio outputs.
The Channel 2 audio inputs are distributed to the Channel 2/1 audio outputs.
7. Adjust the right and left audio levels by turning the CH1 and CH2 LEVEL
trimmers with a small screwdriver.
Figure 4: Connecting the VM-80A in a 1:8 Configuration
1 Switch OFF the power on each device before connecting it to your VM-80A. After connecting your VM-80A, switch on its
power and then switch on the power on each device

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Technical Specifications
10
6.2.1 Changing the VM-80A Default Mode
By factory default, the VM-80A starts in 1:8 mode.
To change the default mode to 2x1:4:
1. Disconnect the device from its power source.
2. Open the top cover of the device.
3. Move the jumper on the main board from JP1 to JP2.
This operation must be performed by a qualified technician.
7 Technical Specifications
The VM-1610 and VM-80A technical specifications are shown in Table 3:
Table 3: Technical Specifications1
VM-1610 VM-80A
INPUT: 2 balanced audio stereo +4dBu, 50kΩ on
detachable terminal blocks 2 balanced audio stereo +4dBu, 100kΩ on
terminal block connectors
OUTPUT: 10 (or 2x5) balanced audio stereo +4dBu,
50Ω on detachable terminal blocks 8 (or 2 x 4) balanced audio stereo, +4dBu,
50Ω on terminal block connectors
AUDIO BANDWIDTH
(-3dB): >100kHz 20kHz
MAX. AUDIO
OUTPUT: 18Vpp 20Vpp
GAIN RANGE: 0.5dB to +9.5dB (four trimmers - two for
each input channel) 0.2 to 5.8dB (four trimmers - two for each input channel)
AUDIO S/N RATIO: 92dB @1Vpp 100dB @1Vpp
CROSSTALK: -84.5dB -60dB@1kHz
CONTROL: Front selector switch for 1:10 or 2x1:5
operation, 4 front accessible gain trimmers Front selector switches for 1:8 or 2x1:4 operation, 4 front accessible gain trimmers
COUPLING: AC (input), DC (output) AC (input); DC (output)
THD: 0.011% at 1kHz 0.02%
2ND HARMONIC: 0.003% 0.006%
POWER SOURCE: 230V AC, (115V AC U.S.A.), 21VA 230V AC, 50/60Hz (115V AC U.S.A.)
6.7VA
DIMENSIONS: 19” x 7” x 1U W, D, H, rack mountable 22cm x 18cm x 4.5cm (8.7” x 7” x 1.8”) W,
D, H (half 19”)
WEIGHT: 2.6kg (5.7lbs) approx 1.2kg (2.7lbs) approx
ACCESSORIES: Power cord Detachable AC power cord
OPTIONS: RK-1 19” rack adapter
1 Specifications are subject to change without notice

11
11
LIMITED WARRANTY
WHOISPROTECTED?
WHATISCOVEREDANDWHATISNOTCOVERED
WHATWEWILLPAYFORANDWHATWEWILLNOTPAYFOR
HOW YOU CAN GET WARRANTY SERVICE
LIMITATIONOFIMPLIEDWARRANTIES
EXCLUSIONOFDAMAGES
CAUTION!
Kramer Electronics (hereafter ) warrants this product free from defects in material and workmanship under the
followingterms. Kramer
HOWLONGISTHE WARRANTY
Labor and parts are warranted for seven years from the date of the first customer purchase.
Only the first purchase customer may enforce this warranty.
Wewillpay laborandmaterialexpensesforcovereditems.Wewillnotpayforthefollowing:
Theliability of Kramer forany effective products is limited to the repair or replacement of the product at our option.Kramer shall
notbeliable for:
Thiswarrantygivesyouspecificlegalrights,andyoumayalsohaveotherrights,whichvaryfromplacetoplace.
Allproducts returnedtoKramerforservicemusthavepriorapproval.Thismaybeobtainedfromyourdealer.
Thisequipmenthas beentestedtodeterminecompliancewiththerequirements of:
EN-50081: "Electromagneticcompatibility(EMC);
genericemissionstandard.
Residential,commercialandlightindustry"
EN-50082: "Electromagneticcompatibility(EMC)genericimmunitystandard.
Part1:Residential,commercialandlightindustryenvironment".
CFR-47: FCC* Rules and Regulations:
Part 15: “Radio frequency devices
Subpart B Unintentional radiators”
Except as below, this warranty covers all defects in material or workmanship in this product. The following are not covered
bythewarranty:
1. Any product which is not distributed by Kramer, or which is not purchased from an authorized Kramer dealer. If you are
uncertain as to whether a dealer is authorized, please contact Kramer at one of the agents listed in the Web site
www.kramerelectronics.com.
2. Any product, on which the serial number has been defaced,modified or removed, or on which the WARRANTY VOID
TAMPERED sticker has been torn,
3. Damage,deteriorationormalfunctionresultingfrom:
i) Accident,misuse,abuse, neglect, fire, water,lightningorotheractsofnature
ii) Productmodification,orfailuretofollowinstructionssuppliedwiththeproduct
iii) RepairorattemptedrepairbyanyonenotauthorizedbyKramer
iv) Anyshipmentoftheproduct(claimsmustbepresentedtothecarrier)
v) Removalorinstallationoftheproduct
vi) Anyothercause,whichdoesnot relatetoaproductdefect
vii)Cartons,equipmentenclosures,cablesoraccessoriesusedinconjunctionwiththeproduct
1. Removalorinstallationscharges.
2. Costs of initial technical adjustments (set-up), including adjustment of user controls or programming. These costs are the
responsibilityoftheKramerdealerfromwhomtheproductwaspurchased.
3. Shippingcharges.
1. To obtain service on you product, you must take or ship it prepaid to any authorized Kramerservice center.
2. Whenever warranty service is required, the original dated invoice (or a copy) must be presented as proof of warranty
coverage, and should be included in any shipment of the product. Please also include in any mailing a contact name,
company, address, and a description of the problem(s).
3. For the name of the nearest Kramer authorized service center, consult your authorized dealer.
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, arelimited in duration to
the length of this warranty.
1. Damagetootherpropertycausedbydefects inthisproduct,damagesbaseduponinconvenience,lossofuseoftheproduct,loss
oftime, commercialloss; or:
2. Anyother damages, whether incidental,consequential orotherwise. Some countries maynotallowlimitations onhow longan
implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitationsandexclusions maynotapplytoyou.
Servicing the machines can only be done by an authorized Kramer technician. Any user who makes changes or
modifications to the unit without the expressed approval of the manufacturer will void user authority to operate the
equipment.
UsethesuppliedDCpowersupplytofeedpowertothemachine.
Pleaseuse recommendedinterconnection cablestoconnect themachine toother components.
IF reattached, removed or otherwise interfered with.
*FCCandCEapprovedusingSTPcable(fortwistedpairproducts)
NOTE:
Part1:

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
P/N: 2900-001002 REV 3
For the latest information on our products and a list of Kramer
distributors, visit our Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com
where updates to this user manual may be found.
We welcome your questions, comments and feedback.
Caution
Safety Warning:
Disconnect the unit from the power supply before
opening/servicing.