Kramer VM-8DVI-R User manual

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
USER MANUAL
Model:
VM-8DVI-R
1:8 DVI Distributor

Contents
i
Contents
1 Introduction 1
2 Getting Started 1
3 Overview 1
4 Your VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor 2
5 Installing the VM-8DVI-R on a Rack 5
6 Connecting a VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor 6
6.1 The EDID Feature 7
6.1.1 Defining EDID 7
6.1.2 Acquiring the EDID 7
6.1.2.1 Acquiring or Restoring the Factory Default EDID 7
6.1.2.2 Automatically Acquiring the EDID 8
6.1.2.3 Manually Acquiring the EDID 8
6.2 Setting the Dipswitches 9
7 Technical Specifications 9
Figures
Figure 1: VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor 3
Figure 2: Connecting a VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor 6
Figure 3: VM-8DVI-R Dipswitches 9
Tables
Table 1: VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor Features 4
Table 2: Dipswitches settings 9
Table 3: Technical Specifications of the VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor 9

Introduction
1
1 Introduction
Welcome to Kramer Electronics (since 1981): a world of unique, creative and
affordable solutions to the infinite range of problems that confront the video,
audio and presentation professional on a daily basis. In recent years, we have
redesigned and upgraded most of our line, making the best even better! Our
350-plus different models now appear in 8 Groups
1
, which are clearly defined
by function.
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI
Distributor. The VM-8DVI-R is ideal for:
 Multiple screen applications
 Rental and staging
Each package includes the following items:
 VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor
 Power cord
 This user manual
2
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 cables
3
3 Overview
The Kramer VM-8DVI-R is a 1:8 distribution amplifier for DVI-D signals,
letting you connect the signal from a DVI source to up to 8 DVI acceptors.
The VM-8DVI-R distributes signals having resolutions up to UXGA,
including all HDTV formats. Since high-resolution DVI signals are very
sensitive to cable quality and to PCB layout, the VM-8DVI-R uses a uniquely
1 GROUP 1: Distribution Amplifiers; GROUP 2: Video and Audio Switchers, Matrix Switchers and Controllers; GROUP 3:
Video, Audio, VGA/XGA Processors; GROUP 4: Interfaces and Sync Processors; GROUP 5: Twisted Pair Interfaces;
GROUP 6: Accessories and Rack Adapters; GROUP 7: Scan Converters and Scalers; and GROUP 8: Cables and Connectors
2 Download up-to-date Kramer user manuals from our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
3 The complete list of Kramer cables is on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor
2
designed PCB, which includes all the equalization, reclocking and amplifying
circuitry to provide 8 high-quality output signals.
In particular, the VM-8DVI-R:
 Has a bandwidth of 1.65GHz
 Supports the DDWG DVI 1.0 standard
 Consists of a built-in re-clocking block that re-generates the DVI signal,
so that several units may be cascaded
 Can read and store, in non-volatile memory
1
, the EDID
2
block from one of
the outputs, so it can then provide the EDID information to the DVI
source even if the display device is not connected
 Has a default EDID for fast and efficient connection of the unit
3
 Has nine DVI-I connectors, which are compatible with all types of DVI cables
 Is a cost-effective solution for distributing the TMDS
4
signals used for
DVI, and uses state-of-the-art line drivers on each of the 8 outputs
 Can be used in any application where multiple DVI monitors, projectors
or other receiving devices are to be driven via a single DVI source
Note that only the digital signal (DVI-D) is available on the DVI connector
The VM-8DVI-R fits in one vertical space of a standard 19” professional rack
enclosure (1U)
5
.
To achieve the best performance:
 Connect only good quality connection cables, thus avoiding interference,
deterioration in signal quality due to poor matching, and elevated noise-
levels (often associated with low quality cables)
 Avoid interference from neighboring electrical appliances and position your
Kramer VM-8DVI-R away from moisture, excessive sunlight and dust
4 Your VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor
Figure 1 and Table 1 define the VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor:
1 While the machine is ON
2 EDID is Extended Display Identification Data (see section 6.1.1 for a detailed definition)
3 Lets you use the EDID default value when no display from which to read the EDID is connected
4 TMDS is Transition Minimized Differential Signaling, a technology for transmitting high-speed serial data. TMDS is used
to digitally send graphics data to modern digitally interfaced display monitors
5 With the ear racks attached (see section 5)

Your VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor
3
Figure 1: VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor
4
Table 1: VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor Features
# Feature Function
1 POWER Switch Illuminated switch for turning the unit ON or OFF
2 INPUT LED Lights when the input is active
3 OUTPUTS CONNECTED LEDs
Lights when an output is connected and active (from 1 to 8)
4 EDID OUTPUT PORT SELECT
Dipswitches
Select the output from which the EDID will be acquired in
the MANUAL mode
5 EDID SELECT MODE
Dipswitches
Set to MANUAL for manual selection of EDID
Set to AUTO for automatic selection of EDID
6 INPUT DVI Connector Connect to the DVI source
7 OUTPUT DVI Connectors Connect to the DVI acceptors (from 1 to 8)
8 Power Connector with Fuse AC connector enabling power supply to the unit

Installing the VM-8DVI-R on a Rack
5
5 Installing the VM-8DVI-R on a Rack
This section describes what to do before installing on a rack and how to rack
mount.
Before Installing on a Rack
Before installing on a rack, be sure that the environment is
within the recommended range:
Operating temperature range +5 to +45 Deg. Centigrade
Operating humidity range 5 to 65 % RHL, non-condensing
Storage temperature range -20 to +70 Deg. Centigrade
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 supply
connections other than direct connections to the branch
circuit (for example, the use of power strips), and that
you use only the power cord that is supplied with the
machine.
How to Rack Mount
To rack-mount the 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)

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting a VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor
6
6 Connecting a VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor
To connect the VM-8DVI-R as a 1:8 DVI distributor, do the following:
1. Connect a DVI source (for example, a DVI graphics source) to the INPUT
connector.
2. Connect the 8 OUTPUT connectors
1
to up to 8 DVI acceptors, as follows:
 The OUTPUT 1 connector to the DVI acceptor (for example, a
projector)
 The OUTPUT 2 to OUTPUT 8 connectors to the DVI acceptors (for
example, displays)
3. Connect the power cord to the mains electricity and turn ON the POWER.
4. Acquire the EDID (see section 6.1).
Display
Display
Projector
DVI
Graphics
Source
Figure 2: Connecting a VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor
1 As required. Up to 8 outputs can be connected on the VM-8DVI-R. Not all outputs need to be connected

Connecting a VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor
7
6.1 The EDID Feature
The VM-8DVI-R can operate with the factory default EDID, or with an EDID
that is acquired from one of the outputs either automatically or manually.
6.1.1 Defining EDID
The Extended Display Identification Data (EDID
1
) is a data-structure,
provided by a display, to describe its capabilities to a graphics card (that is
connectedtothedisplay's source).TheEDIDenablestheVM-8DVI-Rto
“know” what kind of monitor is connected to the output. The EDID includes
the manufacturer’s name, the product type, the phosphor or filter type, the
timing data supported by the display, the display size, luminance data and (for
digital displays only) the pixel mapping data.
6.1.2 Acquiring the EDID
The EDID is acquired every time you turn the machine ON. You can either
acquire the EDID automatically or manually from one of the connected
outputs, or work with the default EDID.
6.1.2.1 Acquiring or Restoring the Factory Default EDID
To select an EDID:
1. Disconnect all the outputs.
2. Turn OFF the power on the VM-8DVI-R and then turn it ON again.
If there are no outputs connected to the VM-8DVI-R, the factory default EDID
is acquired once the machine is turned ON
1 EDID is defined by a standard published by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA)

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting a VM-8DVI-R 1:8 DVI Distributor
8
If one or more outputs are connected you can acquire the EDID either
automatically or manually:
6.1.2.2 Automatically Acquiring the EDID
1
To automatically acquire the EDID:
1. Turn the power OFF on the VM-8DVI-R.
2. Set both of the EDID SELECT MODE dipswitches to AUTO.
3. Turn the power ON.
In the automatic EDID SELECT MODE, the EDID is acquired from the
acceptor that is connected to the lowest numbered OUTPUT
For example, if OUTPUT 3 and OUTPUT 7 are connected, the EDID will be
acquired from OUTPUT 3.
6.1.2.3 Manually Acquiring the EDID
2
To manually acquire the EDID:
1. Turn the power OFF on the VM-8DVI-R.
2. Set both of the EDID SELECT MODE dipswitches to MANUAL.
3. In the EDID OUTPUT PORT SELECT, set the channel (from 1 to 8) from
which you want to acquire the EDID.
4. Turn the power ON.
In the manual EDID SELECT MODE, the EDID is acquired according to the
setting on the EDID OUTPUT PORT SELECT dipswitches
For example, if OUTPUT 3 and OUTPUT 7 are connected, and the EDID
OUTPUT PORT SELECT dipswitch 7 is set to ON, the EDID will be
acquired from OUTPUT 7.
1 If no display is connected, then the factory-default EDID is used (see 6.1.2.1)
2 If a display is not connected to the channel selected by the dipswitches, then the factory-default EDID is used (see 6.1.2.1)