Kramer VP-8x8 User manual

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
USER MANUAL
Model:
VP-8x8
8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher

Contents
i
Contents
1 Introduction 1
2 Getting Started 1
3 Overview 2
4 Your VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher 2
5 Connecting the VP-8x8 5
5.1 Connecting the VP-8x8 Rear Panel 5
5.2 Controlling via RS-232 (for example, using a PC) 7
5.3 Controlling via RS-485 8
5.4 Control Configuration via the Ethernet Port 9
5.5 Setting the Ethernet Port and Utilities 9
5.5.1 Connecting the VP-8x8 Ethernet port 9
5.5.2 Installing and Running the XPort Configuration Software 11
5.5.3 Configuring the Ethernet Port 14
5.5.4 Using the Web Manager Page 14
5.5.5 Controlling a Machine using the Com Port Redirector 18
5.5.6 Using the Com Port Redirector 23
5.6 Setting the Dipswitches 24
5.6.1 Setting the Delay 24
5.6.2 Setting the Machine # Dipswitches 25
5.7 Cascading Machines 25
6 Operating the VP-8x8 26
6.1 Displaying Unit Characteristics 27
6.2 Confirming Settings 27
6.2.1 Toggling between the At Once and Confirm Modes 28
6.2.2 Confirming a Switching Action 28
6.3 Storing/Recalling Input/Output Configurations 28
6.3.1 Storing an Input/Output Configuration 29
6.3.2 Recalling an Input/Output Configuration 29
6.3.3 Deleting an Input/Output Configuration 29
6.4 Locking the Front Panel 30
7 Flash Memory Upgrade 31
7.1 Downloading from the Internet 31
7.2 Connecting the PC to the RS-232 Port 31
7.3 Upgrading Firmware 31
8 Technical Specifications 37
9 Table of Hex Codes for Serial Communication 38
10 Kramer Protocol 2000 39

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Contents
ii
Figures
Figure 1: VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher – Front and Rear View 3
Figure 2: VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher – Underside View 3
Figure 3: Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher 6
Figure 4: Connecting a PC without using a Null-modem Adapter 7
Figure 5: Controlling via RS-485 (for example, using an RC-3000) 8
Figure 6: Local Area Connection Properties Window 10
Figure 7: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Window 10
Figure 8: XPort™ Installer Main Dialog Box 12
Figure 9: Device Found on the Network 12
Figure 10: IP Address Assignment Dialog Box 13
Figure 11: Ethernet Port Web-Manager 14
Figure 12: Server Configuration in the Unit Configuration Window 15
Figure 13: Port Configuration in the Unit Configuration Window 16
Figure 14: Server Properties in the Unit Configuration Window 16
Figure 15: Serial Port Settings Window 17
Figure 16: Dedicated Connection Window 17
Figure 17: Flush Mode Input Buffer Window 17
Figure 18: Com Port Redirector Welcome Screen 18
Figure 19: Setup Complete Dialog Box 19
Figure 20: Com Port Redirector Configuration Window 19
Figure 21: Port Setup Window 20
Figure 22: IP Service Setup Dialog Box 21
Figure 23: Port Settings Window 22
Figure 24: Silent Mode Checked in the RDCfg Window 23
Figure 25: VP-8x8 Dipswitches 24
Figure 26: Control Configuration via RS-232 and RS-485 26
Figure 27: VP-8x8 Unit Characteristics 27
Figure 28: Storing and Recalling using the Input/Output Buttons 28
Figure 29: Splash Screen 32
Figure 30: Atmel – Flip Window 32
Figure 31: Device Selection Window 33
Figure 32: Selecting the Device from the Selection Window 33
Figure 33: Loading the Hex 34
Figure 34: RS-232 Window 34
Figure 35: Atmel – Flip Window (Connected) 35
Figure 36: Atmel – Flip Window (Operation Completed) 36

Contents
iii
Tables
Table 1: Front Panel VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher Features 4
Table 2: Rear Panel VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher Features 4
Table 3: VP-8x8 Underside Panel Features 4
Table 4: Crossover Cable RJ-45 PINOUT 9
Table 5: Straight-through Cable RJ-45 PINOUT 11
Table 6: Web Manager Window Buttons 15
Table 7: Port Settings Description 22
Table 8: Dipswitch Settings 24
Table 9: DELAY Dipswitch Settings 24
Table 10: Machine # Dipswitch Settings 25
Table 11: Technical Specifications of the VP-8x8 8x8 Video Audio Matrix Switcher 37
Table 12: VP-8x8 Hex Codes for Switching via RS-232/RS-485 38
Table 13: Protocol Definitions 39
Table 14: Instruction Codes for Protocol 2000 40

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 VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix
Switcher, which is ideal for the following typical applications:
 Any professional display system requiring a true 8x8 computer graphics
matrix operation
 Multimedia and presentation source, and acceptor selection
The package includes the following items:
 VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher
 Power cord and Null-modem adapter
 Windows®-based Kramer control software
2
 Windows®-based Configuration Manager XPort software and Com Port
Redirector
 Kramer RC-IR1 Infra-Red Remote Control Transmitter
3
(including the
required battery and a separate user manual
4
)
 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
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 Downloadable from our Web
site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
3 Previously known as the IR-1 / IR-1-01
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
Overview
2
3 Overview
The VP-8x8 is a high performance 8x8 RGBHV Matrix Switcher for high
resolution video. The VP-8x8 lets you simultaneously route any or all of the
8 inputs to any or all of the 8 outputs.
The VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher:
 Has a video bandwidth of 400MHz that ensures transparent performance
even in the most critical applications
 Has 16 preset memory locations for quick access to common configurations
 Has a delayed switching mode (ranging from 0 to 3.5sec
1
) for clean
transitions (seamless switching) when switching between non-genlocked
sources
 Has DC coupled inputs and outputs
 Includes a TAKE button, which allows you to place multiple switches in
a queue and then activate them simultaneously with one touch of this
button
 Consists of a LOCK button to prevent tampering with the front panel
 Automatically detects connected input signals (respective button illuminates)
Control the VP-8x8 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 Infra-Red remote control transmitter
 Ethernet
The VP-8x8 is dependable, rugged, and fits into one vertical space (1U) of a
standard 19” professional rack
2
. 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-8x8
away from moisture, excessive sunlight and dust
4 Your VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher
Figure 1, Table 1 and Table 2 define the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix
Switcher. Figure 2 illustrates the underside of the VP-8x8 unit, and Table 3
defines the underside features.
1 In increments of 0.5sec
2 The RGBHV signals are connected on HD15 pin connectors to reduce enclosure size

Your VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher
3
Figure 1: VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher – Front and Rear View
Enlarged View
Figure 2: VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher – Underside View

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher
4
Table 1: Front Panel VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher Features
# Feature Function
1 IR Receiver The red LED is illuminated when receiving signals from the Infra-red remote
control transmitter
2 POWER Switch Illuminated switch for turning the unit ON or OFF
3 IN SELECTOR
Buttons Select the input to switch to the output.
When a signal is detected, the input button illuminates in green
4 OUT SELECTOR
Buttons Select the output to which the input is switched
5 ALL Button Pressing ALL followed by an INPUT button, connects that input to all outputs
1
6 OFF Button Press an OUT SELECTOR button and then an OFF button to disconnect that
output from the inputs
Press the ALL button and then the OFF button to disconnect all the outputs
7 TAKE Button Pressing TAKE toggles the mode between the Confirm mode
2
and the
At Once mode (user confirmation per action is unnecessary)
8 STO (Store) Button Pressing STO followed by an input/output button stores the current setting
3
9 RCL (Recall) Button Pressing the RCL button and the corresponding IN/OUT button recalls a
setup from the non-volatile memory. The stored status blinks. Pressing a
different IN/OUT button lets you view
4
another setup. After making your
choice, pressing the RCL button again implements the new status
10 LOCK Button Disengages the front panel switches
11 STATUS 7-segment
Display
Displays the selected input switched to the output (marked above each
input)
5
Table 2: Rear Panel VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher Features
# Feature Function
12 HD15F INPUT Connectors Connect to the video sources (from 1 to 8)
13 HD15F OUTPUT Connectors Connect to the output acceptor (from 1 to 8)
14 FLASH PROG Button Push in for “Program” to upgrade to the latest Kramer firmware (see
section 7), or release for Normal (the factory default)
6
15 RS-232 DB 9F Port Connects to the PC or the Remote Controller
16 DELAY and SETUP
Dipswitches Dipswitches for setup of the unit (DELAY dips 1, 2, 3 are for setting the delay time; SETUP dips 1, 2, 3, 4 are for setting machine #; 8 is
for RS-485 Termination)
17 ETHERNET Connector Connects to the PC or other Serial Controller through computer
networking
18 RS-485 Terminal Block Port Pin G is for Ground connection; Pins B (-) and A (+) are for RS-485
19 Power Connector with Fuse AC connector enabling power supply to the unit
Table 3: VP-8x8 Underside Panel Features
# Feature Function
1 RESET FOR PROGRAM
Button Press to reset unit prior to firmware upgrade (see section 7.3)
1 For example, press ALL and then Input button # 2 to connect input # 2 to all the outputs
2 When in the
Confirm mode, the TAKE button illuminates
3 For example, press STO and then the Output button # 3 to store in Setup # 3
4 Only view, nothing is implemented at this stage
5 Also displays the number of IN and OUT ports, the firmware version number, and the MACHINE #. Refer to section 6.1
6 The FLASH PROG “Reset” button is located on the underside of the unit

Connecting the VP-8x8
5
5 Connecting the VP-8x8
This section describes how to:
 Connect the VP-8x8 rear panel (see section 5.1)
 Connect the VP-8x8 to a controlling device via RS-232 (see section 5.2),
RS-485 (see section 5.3) and/or the Ethernet (see sections 5.4 and 5.5)
 Set the dipswitches (see section 5.6)
 Connect several VP-8x8 machines (see section 5.7)
5.1 Connecting the VP-8x8 Rear Panel
To connect the VP-8x8, do the following
1
:
1. Connect up to 8 VGA/UXGA computer graphics sources to the input
connectors (see the illustration in Figure 3).
2. Connect
2
the 8 output connectors to up to 8 VGA/UXGA video
acceptors
3
.
3. Set the dipswitches (see section 5.4).
4. Connect a PC and/or controller (if required) to the RS-232 port (see
section 5.2) and/or RS-485 port (see section 5.3).
5. Connect the power cord
4
.
1 Switch OFF the power on each device before connecting it to your VP-8x8. After connecting your VP-8x8, switch on its
power and then switch on the power on each device. DO NOT push in the rear panel Flash Program “Program” button (item 9
in Table 2) and DO NOT push in the underside Flash Program “Reset” button. These are only used for upgrading to the latest
Kramer firmware (see section 7)
2 When less than eight outputs are required, connect only those outputs of the VP-8x8 that are required, and leave the other
outputs unconnected
3
Displays or projectors
4 We recommend that you use only the power cord that is supplied with this machine

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-8x8
6
Display 8
Display 1
Computer
Graphics Source 8
Computer
Graphics Source 1
RS-232
Figure 3: Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher

Connecting the VP-8x8
7
5.2 Controlling via RS-232 (for example, using a PC)
To connect a PC to the VP-8x8 unit, using the Null-modem adapter provided
with the machine (recommended):
 Connect the RS-232 DB9 rear panel port on the Master VP-8x8 unit to
the Null-modem adapter and connect the Null-modem adapter with a
9-wire flat cable to the RS-232 DB9 port on your PC
To connect a PC to the VP-8x8 unit, without using a Null-modem adapter:
 Connect the RS-232 DB9 port on your PC to the RS-232 DB9 rear panel
port on the Master VP-8x8 unit, as Figure 4 illustrates (depending on
whether the PC has a 9-pin or 25-pin connector)
Figure 4: Connecting a PC without using a Null-modem Adapter

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-8x8
8
5.3 Controlling via RS-485
You can control a VP-8x8 unit via an RS-485 controller, for example, a PC
(equipped with an RS-485 interface) or a Master Programmable Remote
Control system such as the Kramer RC-3000
1
.
To connect an RC-3000 to a VP-8x8 unit (see Figure 5):
1. Connect the RS-485 terminal block port on the RC-3000 to the RS-485
port on the VP-8x8 unit, as follows:
Connect the “ A” (+) PIN on the RS-485 rear panel port of the RC-3000 to
the “ A” (+) PIN on the RS-485 rear panel port of the VP-8x8 unit
Connect the “B” (-) PIN on the RS-485 rear panel port of the RC-3000 to
the “B” (-) PIN on the RS-485 rear panel port of the VP-8x8 unit
If shielded twisted pair cable is used, the shield may be connected to the
“G” (Ground) PIN on one of the units (for example, on the RC-3000)
2. Set the VP-8x8 unit as Machine # 1, according to Table 10 (that is, DIP
1, DIP 2, DIP 3, and DIP 4 OFF), and set the other dipswitches on the
VP-8x8 unit, as follows:
Set DIP 5, DIP 6, and DIP 7 OFF
Set DIP 8 ON (for RS-485 Line Termination with 120)
KEYBOARD EXTENSION REMOTE CONTACT
RS-485 RS-232 IN RS-232 OUT 12 VDC 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 G4 6 8 1 03 5 7 9 11 12 14 16
OU T
13 15
IN

RS-485 PINOUT
G
B
A
_
+
Figure 5: Controlling via RS-485 (for example, using an RC-3000)
1 Previously known as the VS-3000

Connecting the VP-8x8
9
5.4 Control Configuration via the Ethernet Port
To control several units via the Ethernet connect the Master unit (Machine
# 1) via the Ethernet port to the LAN port of your PC. Using your PC, initially
configure the settings as described in section 5.5.
5.5 Setting the Ethernet Port and Utilities
To control your VP-8x8 via the Ethernet, perform an initial configuration as
follows:
1. Connect the Ethernet port of the VP-8x8 to the LAN port of your PC
(see section 5.5.1).
2. Configure your Ethernet Port (see section 5.5.2).
3. Install the COM Port Redirector to control the VP-8x8 (see
section 5.5.5).
5.5.1 Connecting the VP-8x8 Ethernet port
You can connect the Ethernet port either via a crossover cable (see section 
5.5.1.1) or a straight through cable (see section 5.5.1.2).
5.5.1.1 Connecting via a Crossover Cable
Connect the Ethernet port of the VP-8x8 to the LAN port on your PC, via a
crossover cable with RJ-45 connectors, as Table 4 defines.
Table 4: Crossover Cable RJ-45 PINOUT
Side 1 Side 2
PIN Wire Color PIN Wire Color
1 White-orange
1 White-green
2 Orange 2 Green
3 White-green 3 White-orange
4 Blue 4 Blue
5 White-blue 5 White-blue
6 Green 6 Orange
7 White-brown 7 White-brown
8 Brown 8 Brown
This type of connection is recommended for identification of the factory default IP
Address of the VP-8x8 during the initial configuration

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-8x8
10
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 6).
Figure 6: Local Area Connection Properties Window
6. Select Use the following IP Address, and fill in the details as shown in
Figure 7.
7. Click OK.
Figure 7: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Window

Connecting the VP-8x8
11
5.5.1.2 Connecting via a Straight-Through Cable
If connecting the Ethernet port of the VP-8x8 to the LAN port on a network
hub or network router, use a straight-through cable with RJ-45 connectors, as
Table 5 defines:
Table 5: Straight-through Cable RJ-45 PINOUT
Side 1 Side 2
PIN Wire Color PIN Wire Color
1 White-orange 1 White-orange
2 Orange 2 Orange
3 White-green 3 White-green
4 Blue 4 Blue
5 White-blue 5 White-blue
6 Green 6 Green
7 White-brown 7 White-brown
8 Brown 8 Brown
5.5.2 Installing and Running the XPort Configuration Software
To configure the Ethernet Port, you have to install and run the XPort
configuration software.
It is important to consider the following points before logging into and
configuring the Ethernet Port:
 The VP-8x8 IP address must be configured before a network connection
is available
 Only one person at a time may be logged into the network port. This
eliminates the possibility of several people simultaneously attempting to
configure the Device Server
 Network port logins can be disabled. The system manager will not be able
to access the unit. This port can also be password protected
5.5.2.1 Install XPort™ Installer
To install the XPort™ Installer, do the following:
1. Insert the product CD into your CD-ROM drive.
2. Run the XPort installer setup.
3. Respond to the installation wizard prompts.
4. Restart your system.

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-8x8
12
5.5.2.2 Run XPort™ Installer
Click the Start button on the Task Bar and select Programs\XPort
Installer\XPort Installer. The XPort™ Installer main dialog box displays
(Figure 8).
Figure 8: XPort™ Installer Main Dialog Box
To search for devices, click the Search icon or select Search Network from
the Action menu.
5.5.2.3 Assign IP Address
Figure 9 shows a device found on the network, with the IP addresses assigned
at the factory. The Hardware Address is an individual permanent address
assigned to a particular device on the network. The Hardware Address can be
found on the product label inside the unit.
Note: Click on a device to view its attributes
Figure 9: Device Found on the Network

Connecting the VP-8x8
13
To change the IP address, first select the device from the list, then click the
Assign IP icon or select Assign IP Address from the Action menu. The
hardware address and IP address are loaded into the Assign IP Address dialog
box (Figure 10).
Figure 10: IP Address Assignment Dialog Box
Enter the new IP Address and click OK. The new IP Address will appear in
the main window.
5.5.2.4 Test the IP Address
To test the IP Address, do the following:
1. Select the device from the main window list.
2. Click the Ping icon or select Ping from the Action menu. The Ping
Device dialog box shows the IP Address of the selected device.
3. Click the Ping button and the results will be displayed in the Status
window. Use the Clear Status button to clear the window so you can
ping the device again.
4. Click the Close button to close the dialog box and return to the main
window.
Note: If you do not receive “Reply” messages, make sure the unit is properly
attached to the network and that the IP address assigned is valid for the particular
network segment you are working with. If you are not sure, check with your
Systems Administrator

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-8x8
14
5.5.3 Configuring the Ethernet Port
You must configure the Ethernet Port so that it can communicate on a
network with your serial device. For example, you must set the way the unit
will respond to serial and network traffic, how it will handle serial packets,
and when to start or close a connection. You can configure your unit locally
or remotely using the following procedures:
 Use the XPort™ Installer to configure the unit. Some features are only
available through the XPort™ Installer menus
 Use a standard Web browser to access the unit’s internal Web pages and
configure the unit over the network (see section 5.5.4)
This is the easiest and preferred method
 Make sure that the Java™ 2 Runtime Environment (Standard Edition
Version 1.4.1) software is installed on your PC. If not, download it from:
http://java.sun.com
The unit’s configuration is stored in non-volatile memory and is retained
without power. You can change the configuration at any time. The unit
performs a reset after the configuration has been changed and stored.
5.5.4 Using the Web Manager Page
To configure the Ethernet Port via a Web browser, first click one of the
devices listed in the window, and then click the Web icon. The Web-Manager
window now displays in your browser.
Figure 11: Ethernet Port Web-Manager

Connecting the VP-8x8
15
Table 6 describes the Web Manager window buttons.
Table 6: Web Manager Window Buttons
Button Function
Unit Configuration Press to enter the Server Configuration and the Port Configuration
settings (section 5.5.4.1)
Server Properties Press to enter the Server Properties and change the server properties
by editing any of the fields (section 5.5.4.2)
Port Properties Press to enter the Port Properties and modify them
Factory Settings1 Press to set to factory default settings
Update Settings Press to update settings
Channel 1 Disabled
When in the Web Manager window:
1. Use the menu buttons to navigate to sub pages where you can configure
server settings. See explanations of the configuration parameters in the
following sections.
2. When you are finished, click the Update Settings button to save your
settings.
5.5.4.1 Unit Configuration Button
Click the Unit Configuration button to display the following dialog box
(Figure 12). This page contains the Server Configuration and the Port
Configuration settings. These are static settings read from the device.
Figure 12: Server Configuration in the Unit Configuration Window
Figure 12 and Figure 13 show the information available in the Unit
Configuration window.

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-8x8
16
Figure 13: Port Configuration in the Unit Configuration Window
5.5.4.2 Server Properties Button
Click the Server Properties button to display the following dialog box (see
Figure 14).
You can change the server properties by editing any of the fields. Hold the
cursor over one of the fields to display Help messages.
Figure 14: Server Properties in the Unit Configuration Window
 Changing the IP address will require you to enter the new IP address in
the browser to reload the page
 In the Telnet Password field, enter a password to prevent unauthorized
access to the Setup Mode via a Telnet connection to port 9999. The
password is limited to 4 characters. (An enhanced password setting of 16
characters is available under Security Settings on the Telnet Setup Mode
window)