Kramer VP-4x4K User manual

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
USER MANUAL



Model:
VP-4x4K
4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher

Contents
i
Contents
1 Introduction 1
2 Getting Started 1
2.1 Quick Start 1
3 Overview 3
4 Your VP-4x4K UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher 3
5 Installing the VP-4x4K in a Rack 7
6 Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher 8
6.1 Connecting the VP-4x4K Rear Panel 8
6.2 Connecting the Balanced/Unbalanced Stereo Audio Output 10
6.3 Connecting a PC 11
6.4 Cascading Machines 11
6.5 Configuring the Ethernet Port 13
6.5.1 Connecting via the Ethernet 13
6.5.2 Ethernet Port Configuration 15
6.5.3 Control via the Ethernet Port 16
6.6 Dipswitch Settings 17
7 Operating Your Audio Matrix Switcher 17
7.1 Displaying Unit Characteristics 18
7.2 Adjusting the Audio Gain 19
7.3 Setting the Switching Delay Time 19
7.4 Setting the Machine Number 20
7.5 Choosing the Audio-Follow-Video or Breakaway Option 20
7.5.1 Setting the Audio-Follow-Video Option 20
7.5.2 Setting the Breakaway Option 21
7.6 Switching OUT-IN Combinations 21
7.7 Confirming Settings 21
7.7.1 Toggling between the AT ONCE and CONFIRM Modes 22
7.7.2 Confirming a Switching Action 22
7.8 Storing/Recalling Input/Output Configurations 23
7.8.1 Storing an Input/Output Configuration 23
7.8.2 Recalling an Input/Output Configuration 23
7.8.3 Deleting an Input/Output Configuration 24
7.9 Locking the Front Panel 24
8 Firmware Upgrade 25
8.1 Downloading from the Internet 25
8.2 Connecting the PC to the RS-232 Port 25
8.3 Upgrading Firmware 25
9 Technical Specifications 27

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Contents
ii
10 Table of Hex Codes for Serial Communication 28
11 Kramer Protocol 29
11.1 Switching Protocols 29
11.1.1 Switching Protocols via the Front Panel Buttons 29
11.1.2 Switching Protocols via Protocol Commands 29
11.2 Kramer Protocol 3000 30
11.2.1 Protocol 3000 Syntax 30
11.2.2 Command Parts Details 31
11.3 Kramer Protocol 2000 37
Figures
Figure 1: VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher 4
Figure 2: Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher 9
Figure 3: Connecting the Balanced Stereo Audio Output 10
Figure 4: Connecting the Unbalanced Stereo Audio Output 10
Figure 5: Connecting a PC without using a Null-modem Adapter 11
Figure 6: Control Configuration via RS-232 and RS-485 12
Figure 7: Local Area Connection Properties Window 14
Figure 8: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Window 14
Figure 9: Connect Screen 15
Figure 10: Device Properties Screen 16
Figure 11: VP-4x4K Dipswitches 17
Figure 12: SELECTOR Buttons 23
Figure 13: FlashLoader Window 26
Figure 14: Flash Upgrade Process 27
Tables
Table 1: Front Panel VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher Features 5
Table 2: Rear Panel VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher Features 6
Table 3: Dipswitch Settings (Default Setting) 17
Table 4: STATUS 7-segment Display 18
Table 5: Technical Specifications of the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher 27
Table 6: Hex Codes for Switching via RS-232/RS-485 28
Table 7: Hex Codes for Switching Audio Channels via RS-232/RS-485 28
Table 8: Instruction Codes for Protocol 3000 32
Table 9: Protocol Definitions 37
Table 10: Instruction Codes for Protocol 2000 38

P/N: 2900 - 0003861 A1
ADDENDUM: VP-4x4K IP Address and Baud Rate
This addendum replaces Figure 7 and Figure 8 in the User Manual, as well as the
first paragraph in section 11.2
In section 6.5.1.1, Figure 7 and Figure 8 are replaced with Figure A and Figure
B, respectively:
Figure A: Local Area Connection Properties Window
Figure B: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Window
11.2 Kramer Protocol 3000
The Kramer Protocol 3000 lets you control the VP-4x4K from any standard
terminal software (for example, the Windows® HyperTerminal Application).
This RS-232/RS-485 communication protocol
1
uses a data rate of 115200
baud, with no parity, 8 data bits and 1 stop bit.
1 Refer to our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com for details

Introduction
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 groups
1
that are clearly defined by function. 
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio
Matrix Switcher. This product is ideal for the following typical applications:
Professional display systems requiring true 4x4 matrix operation
Multimedia and presentation source and acceptor selection
Remote monitoring of computer activity in schools and businesses
Rental/staging applications
The package includes the following items:
VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
Windows®-based Kramer control software
2
Device Properties Ethernet configuration software
2
Power cord
3
and Null-modem adapter
Infrared remote control transmitter (including the required batteries and a
separate user manual
4
) and this user manual
4
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
5
2.1 Quick Start
This quick start chart summarizes the basic setup and operation steps.
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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 Download the latest software from our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
3 We recommend that you use only the power cord that is supplied with this machine
4 Download up-to-date Kramer user manuals from our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
5 The complete list of Kramer cables is on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Getting Started
2

Overview
3
3 Overview
The VP-4x4K is a true 4x4 matrix switcher for computer graphics (up to and
exceeding UXGA) signals and balanced stereo audio signals. The VP-4x4K lets
you simultaneously route any or all of the four inputs to any or all of the four
outputs.
In addition, the VP-4x4K features:
A video bandwidth of 400MHz that ensures transparent UXGA performance
DC coupled inputs and outputs
A selectable delayed switching mode (ranging from 0 to 3.5sec
1
) for clean
transitions (seamless switching) when switching between non-genlocked
sources
Audio gain control for the inputs and the outputs
Audio-follow-video and breakaway options
Storing and recalling setup options
A TAKE button for precise switch control that lets you execute multiple
switches all at once
A LOCK button to prevent tampering with the front panel
The ability to automatically detect connected input signals (the respective
button illuminates in green)
Our innovative integrated sync processing; KRISP™ technology that lets
you achieve a sharp, stable image when the sync level is too low, by
restoring the sync signal waveform
Control the VP-4x4K using the front panel buttons, or remotely via:
RS-485 or RS-232 serial commands transmitted by a touch screen system,
PC, or other serial controller
The Kramer RC-IR2 Infrared Remote Control Transmitter
The ETHERNET
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 that may
adversely influence signal quality and position your Kramer VP-4x4K
away from moisture, excessive sunlight and dust
4 Your VP-4x4K UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
Figure 1, Table 1 and Table 2 define the VP-4x4K.
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1 In increments of 0.5sec

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VP-4x4K UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
4
Figure 1: VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher

Your VP-4x4K UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
5
Table 1: Front Panel VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher Features
# Feature Function
1 POWER Switch Illuminated switch for turning the unit ON or OFF
2 IR Receiver Signals from the remote control transmitter illuminate the LED
3 OUT Select the output to which the input is switched SELECTOR Buttons
IN Select the input to switch to the output
1
When a signal is detected, the input button illuminates in green
4 ALL Button Pressing ALL before pressing an input button connects that input to
all outputs
2
5 OFF Button Pressing OFF after pressing an output button disconnects that
output from the inputs. To disconnect all the outputs, press the ALL
button and then the OFF button
6 AFV Button When illuminated, the audio channels follow the video channels
3
.
The button is illuminated when the AFV mode is selected
7 VID Button When illuminated
4
, actions relate to video
8 AUD Button When illuminated
5
, actions relate to audio
9 STO
6
Button Pressing STO (STORE) followed by an output or an input button
stores the current setting
7
10 LOCK
6
Button Disengages the front panel switches
11 RCL
8
Button Pressing RCL (RECALL) followed by an output or an input button
displays a stored setup
12 TAKE
8
Button Pressing TAKE toggles the mode between the CONFIRM mode
9
and the AT ONCE mode (user confirmation per action is
unnecessary). When in CONFIRM mode, actions are confirmed by
pressing the TAKE key
13 AUDIO GAIN Button Press to adjust the audio input or output gain (see section 7.2)
14 - Button
10
Press to decrease the numerical value
11
15 + Button
10
Press to increase the numerical value
11
16 STATUS 7-segment Display Displays the selected input switched to the output (marked above
each input)
12
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1 The SELECTOR IN and OUT buttons also store/recall the input/output configurations (see section 7.8)
2 For example, press ALL and then Input button # 2 to connect input # 2 to all the outputs
3 If the AUDIO differs from the VIDEO, the TAKE button will flash, and you have to press the TAKE button to confirm the
modification
4 The VID button is illuminated when in breakaway mode and actions relate to video
5 The AUD button is illuminated when in breakaway mode and actions relate to audio
6 Press the STO and LOCK buttons simultaneously to set the delay time (see section 7.3)
7 For example, press STO and then the Output button # 3 to store in Setup # 3 (see section 7.8)
8 Press the RCL and TAKE button simultaneously to set the machine number (see section 7.4)
9 When in the CONFIRM mode, the TAKE button illuminates
10 By pressing the + or - buttons continuously, you can speed up their response. For step-by-step response, press and release
these buttons as many times as needed
11 Gain, switching delay time and machine number
12 Also displays the number of IN and OUT ports, the firmware version number, the MACHINE # and the audio gain level.
Refer to section 7.1

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VP-4x4K UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
6
Table 2: Rear Panel VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher Features
# Feature Function
17 INPUT 15-pin HD Connectors Connect to the video sources (from 1 to 4)
18 OUTPUT 15-pin HD Connectors
Connect to the acceptors (from 1 to 4)
19 AUDIO INPUTS 3.5mm Mini
Plug Connectors
Connect to the unbalanced stereo audio sources (from 1 to 4)
20 AUDIO OUTPUTS Terminal
block connectors Connect to the balanced stereo audio acceptors (from 1 to 4)
21 PROGRAM Button Not used (for technical staff use only)
22 ETHERNET Connector Connects to the PC or other Serial Controller through computer networking
23 Factory Reset Button Press to reset to the factory default definitions
1
:
IP number 192.168.1.39
Mask – 255.255.0.0
Gateway – 0.0.0.0
UDP port – 50000
TCP port – 5000
Protocol 3000 commands
All 8 Presets deleted
All audio channels set to 0dB
Machine name – the last four digits of the machine's serial number
DHCP disabled
24 RS-485 TERM Dipswitch DIP 1 is for RS-485 Termination, DIP 2 is not used
25 RS-485 Terminal Block Port Pins B (-) and A (+) are for RS-485; Pin G (Ground) may be
connected to the shield of the cable if desired
26 RS-232 9-pin D-sub Connector Connects to the PC or the Remote Controller
27 Power Connector with Fuse AC connector enabling power supply to the unit
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1 Turn the POWER switch OFF and then ON again while pressing the Factory Reset button. The unit will power up and load
its memory with the factory default definitions

Installing the VP-4x4K in a Rack
7
5 Installing the VP-4x4K in a Rack
This section describes what to do before installing in a rack and how to rack
mount.
Before Installing in a Rack How to Rack Mount
Before installing in a rack, be sure that the environment is
within the recommended range:
Operating temperature range +5º to +45º C (41º to 113º F)
Operating humidity range 10 to 90% RHL, non-condensing
Storage temperature range -20º to +70º C (-4º to 158º F)
Storage humidity range 5 to 95% RHL, non-condensing

CAUTION!!
When installing in 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.
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)

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
8
6 Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
This section describes how to:
Connect the VP-4x4K rear panel (see section 6.1)
Connect a balanced/unbalanced stereo audio output (see section 6.2)
Connect the VP-4x4K to a controlling device via RS-232 (see section 6.3)
Connect several VP-4x4K machines (see section 6.4)
Connect to the ETHERNET (see section 6.5)
Set the dipswitches (see section 6.6)
6.1 Connecting the VP-4x4K Rear Panel
To connect
1
the VP-4x4K, as illustrated in the example in Figure 2, do the
following
2
:
1. Connect up to four computer graphics video sources to the 15-pin HD
INPUT connectors (from INPUT 1 to INPUT 4).
2. Connect up to four unbalanced stereo audio sources (for example, the
audio source of the computer
3
) to the AUDIO INPUT 3.5mm mini-plug
connectors (from 1 to 4).
3. Connect the four 15-pin HD OUTPUT connectors to up to four computer
graphics video acceptors (for example, displays).
4. Connect the four AUDIO OUTPUT terminal block connectors to up to
four balanced stereo audio acceptors
4
(for example, balanced stereo audio
amplifiers with speakers). 
5. Set the dipswitches (see section 6.6).
6. As an option, you can connect a PC and/or controller to the RS-232 port
(see section 6.3), the RS-485 port (see section 6.4) and the ETHERNET
(see section 6.5).
7. Connect the power cord
5
.
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1 You do not need to connect all the inputs and outputs
2 Switch OFF the power on each device before connecting it to your VP-4x4K. After connecting your VP-4x4K, switch on its
power and then switch on the power on each device
3 Alternatively, you can connect a separate audio source (as shown for input 1 in Figure 2), or no source at all
4 See section 6.2
5 We recommend that you use only the power cord that is supplied with this machine

Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
9
Figure 2: Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
10
6.2 Connecting the Balanced/Unbalanced Stereo Audio Output
This section illustrates how to wire:
A balanced output connection (see Figure 3)
An unbalanced audio output (see Figure 4)
Figure 3 illustrates how to wire a balanced output connection (for example,
AUDIO OUTPUT 1):
+
-
G
+
-
L1
R1
Figure 3: Connecting the Balanced Stereo Audio Output
Figure 4 illustrates how to wire an unbalanced acceptor to the balanced output
of the unit (for example, AUDIO OUTPUT 1):
+ - G + -
L1
R1
Figure 4: Connecting the Unbalanced Stereo Audio Output

Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
11
6.3 Connecting a PC
To connect a PC to the VP-4x4K unit, using the Null-modem adapter
provided with the machine (recommended):
Connect the RS-232 9-pin D-sub rear panel port on the Master VP-4x4K
unit to the Null-modem adapter and connect the Null-modem adapter with
a 9-wire flat cable to the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port on your PC
To connect a PC to the VP-4x4K unit, without using a Null-modem adapter:
Connect the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port on your PC to the RS-232 9-pin
D-sub rear panel port on the Master VP-4x4K unit, as Figure 5 illustrates



9-pin D-sub
(From PC)
9-pin D-sub
(Male)
If a shielded cable is used, connect the shield to PIN 5
PIN 4 is connected to PIN 6
PINs 8, 7, 1 are connected together



PIN 5 Connected to PIN 5 (Ground)
PIN 3 Connected to PIN 2
PIN 2 Connected to PIN 3
Figure 5: Connecting a PC without using a Null-modem Adapter
6.4 Cascading Machines
You can cascade up to 16 VP-4x4K units with control from a PC or serial
controller.
To cascade 16 individual VP-4x4K units via RS-485, as illustrated in the
example in Figure 6, do the following:
1. Connect the sources and acceptors (see section 6.1).
2. Connect the RS-232 port of the first VP-4x4K unit to a PC using the
Null-modem adapter provided with the machine (see section 6.3).
3. Connect the RS-485 terminal block port on the first VP-4x4K unit to the
RS-485 port on the second VP-4x4K unit and so on, connecting all the RS-485
ports.
4. Set the first VP-4x4K unit as Machine # 1 and the following VP-4x4K units as
Machine # 2 to Machine # 16 (see section 7.4).
5. On the first and last VP-4x4K units, set the RS-485 TERM dipswitch to ON,
terminating the RS-485 line at 120(see section 6.6), and set this dipswitch to
OFF on the other VP-4x4K units.

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
12
Machine # 1 (= Master)
Machine # 2
Machine # 16
Up to 16
Units
RS-485
AB G
RS-485 PINOUT
G
B
A
_
+
.
.
.
Figure 6: Control Configuration via RS-232 and RS-485

Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
13
6.5 Configuring the Ethernet Port
To configure the Ethernet port, you have to connect your PC to the VP-4x4K
either via the Ethernet (see section 6.5.1) or via a serial port (see section 6.3).
Once the machine is connected, you can configure the Ethernet port.
6.5.1 Connecting via the Ethernet
You can connect the VP-4x4K via the ETHERNET in the following ways:
For direct connection to the PC, use a crossover cable (see section
6.5.1.1)
For connection via a network hub or network router, use a
straight-through cable (see section 6.5.1.2)
6.5.1.1 Connecting the ETHERNET Port Directly to a PC (Crossover Cable)
You can connect the Ethernet port of the machine to the Ethernet port on your
PC, via a crossover cable with RJ-45 connectors.
This type of connection is recommended for identification of the factory default
IP Address
1
of the VP-4x4K during the initial configuration
After connecting the Ethernet port, configure your PC as follows:
1. Right-click the My Network Places icon on your desktop.
2. Select Properties.
3. Right-click Local Area Connection Properties.
4. Select Properties.
The Local Area Connection Properties window appears.
5. Select the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and click the Properties Button (see
Figure 7).
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1 The default IP address is 192.168.1.39

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
14
Figure 7: Local Area Connection Properties Window
6. Select Use the following IP Address, and fill in the details as shown in
Figure 8.
7. Click OK.
Figure 8: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Window
6.5.1.2 Connecting the ETHERNET Port via a Network Hub (Straight-Through
Cable)
You can connect the Ethernet port of the VP-4x4K to the Ethernet port on a
network hub or network router, via a straight-through cable with RJ-45
connectors.

Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
15
6.5.2 Ethernet Port Configuration
To configure the Ethernet port, download the Device Properties Ethernet
configuration software. Extract the file to a folder and create a shortcut on
your desktop to the file.
Follow these steps to configure the port:
1. Double click the desktop icon.
The Connect screen appears as follows:
Figure 9: Connect Screen
2. Select the method to connect to the Ethernet port of the VP-4x4K.
Select:
Ethernet, if you know the IP address number or the machine name.
The default name for the machine is KRAMER_XXXX
1
Serial, if you are connected via a serial port
3. Click OK.
The Device Properties window appears:

1 The four digits are the last four digits of the machine’s serial number.

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-4x4K 4x4 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
16
Figure 10: Device Properties Screen
4. If required, make changes and press Set. If not, click Close.
6.5.3 Control via the Ethernet Port
If you were connected via the serial port, you need to connect to the master
unit (Mach No. 1) via the Ethernet, as described in section 6.5.1.