Kramer VP-8x8 User manual

KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
USER MANUAL
MODEL:
VP-8x8
8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix
Switcher
P/N: 2900-000054 Rev 4

VP-8x8 – Contents i
Contents
1Introduction 1
2Getting Started 2
2.1Achieving the Best Performance 2
3Overview 3
3.1Defining the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher 3
3.2Using the IR Transmitter 6
4Installing in a Rack 7
5Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher 8
5.1Connecting the VP-8x8 Rear Panel 8
5.2Connecting a PC 9
5.3Controlling via RS-485 10
5.4Control Configuration via the Ethernet Port 11
5.5Setting the DIP-Switches 13
5.6Cascading Machines 15
6Operating the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher 17
6.1Displaying Unit Characteristics 17
6.2Confirming Settings 17
6.3Storing/Recalling Input/Output Configurations 19
6.4Locking the Front Panel 20
6.5Updating the VP-8x8 Firmware 21
7Technical Specifications 22
8Table of Hex Codes for Serial Communication 23
9Kramer Protocol 2000 24
Figures
Figure 1: VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher 4
Figure 2: VP-8x8 Underside View 6
Figure 3: Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher 9
Figure 4: Crossed Cable RS-232 Connection 10
Figure 5: Straight Cable RS-232 Connection with a Null Modem Adapter 10
Figure 6: Local Area Connection Properties Window 12
Figure 7: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Window 12
Figure 8: VP-8x8 DIP-switches 13
Figure 9: Control Configuration via RS-232 and RS-485 16
Figure 10: Storing and Recalling using the Input/Output Buttons 19

VP-8x8 - 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 that are clearly defined
by function: 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; and
GROUP 11: Sierra Products.
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer 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

2 VP-8x8 - Getting Started
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
•Use only the power cord that is supplied with this machine
Go to http://www.kramerelectronics.com to check for up-to-date
user manuals, application programs, and to check if firmware
upgrades are available (where appropriate).
2.1 Achieving the Best Performance
To achieve the best performance:
•Use only good quality connection cables to avoid 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
•Position your Kramer VP-8x8 away from moisture, excessive sunlight and
dust
i

VP-8x8 - Overview 3
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 features:
•400MHz video bandwidth that ensures transparent performance even in the
most critical applications
•16 preset memory locations for quick access to common configurations
•Delayed switching mode (ranging from 0 to 3.5sec in increments of 0.5 sec)
for clean transitions (seamless switching) when switching between
non-genlocked sources
•DC coupled inputs and outputs
•A TAKE button that allows you to place multiple switches in a queue and
then activate them simultaneously with one touch of this button
•A LOCK button to prevent tampering with the front panel
•Automatic detection of 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 RC-IR3 infrared remote control transmitter
•Ethernet
The VP-8x8 is dependable, rugged, and fits into one vertical space (1U) of a
standard 19” professional rack.
3.1 Defining the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher
This section defines the VP-8x8.

4 VP-8x8 - Overview
Figure 1: VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher

VP-8x8 - Overview 5
# Feature Function
1 IR Receiver The yellow LED is illuminated when receiving signals from the
infrared 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
For example, press ALL and then Input button # 2 to connect input # 2 to
all the outputs
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
and the At Once mode (user confirmation per action is
unnecessary)
When in the Confirm mode, the TAKE button illuminates
8 STO (Store) Button Pressing STO followed by an input/output button stores the
current setting
For example, press STO and then the Output button # 3 to store in Setup
# 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
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)
Also displays the number of IN and OUT ports, the firmware version
number, and the MACHINE #. Refer to section 6.1
12 15-pin HD INPUT Connectors Connect to the video sources (from 1 to 8)
13 15-pin HD 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, or release for Normal (the factory default)
The FLASH PROG “Reset” button is located on the underside of the unit
15 RS-232 9-pin D-sub Port Connects to the PC or the Remote Controller
16 DELAY and SETUP DIP-
switches DIP-switches 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 REMOTE IR 3.5mm Mini Jack Connect to an external IR receiver unit for controlling the
machine via an IR remote controller (instead of using the front
panel IR receiver)
Optional. Can be used instead of the front panel (built-in) IR receiver to
remotely control the machine (only if the internal IR connection cable has
been installed)
19 RS-485 Terminal Block Port Pin G is for Ground connection; Pins B (-) and A (+) are for
RS-485
20 Power Connector with Fuse AC connector enabling power supply to the unit

6 VP-8x8 - Overview
Figure 2 illustrates and defines the underside of the VP-8x8 unit.
Feature Function
RESET FOR
PROGRAM Button Press to reset unit prior to firmware upgrade
Figure 2: VP-8x8 Underside
View
3.2 Using the IR Transmitter
You can use the RC-IR3 IR transmitter to control the machine via the built-in IR
receiver on the front panel or, instead, via an optional external IR receiver (P/N:
C-A35M/IRR-50). The external IR receiver can be located 15 meters away from
the machine. This distance can be extended to up to 60 meters when used with
three extension cables (P/N: C-A35M/A35F-50).
Before using the external IR receiver, be sure to arrange for your Kramer dealer to
insert an internal IR connection cable (P/N: 505-70434010-S), which is required so
that the REMOTE IR 3.5mm connector can be used. Connect the external IR
receiver totheREMOTE IR 3.5mm connector.
Control the matrix switcher using the front panel buttons, or remotely via the
Kramer RC-IR3 Infrared Remote Control Transmitter, via an external remote IR
receiver (optional), or via RS-485 or RS-232 serial commands transmitted by a
touch screen system, PC, or other serial controller.

VP-8x8 - Installing in a Rack 7
4 Installing in a Rack

8 VP-8x8 - Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher
5 Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA
Matrix Switcher
Always switch off the power to each device before connecting it to your
VP-8x8. After connecting your VP-8x8, connect its power and then
switch on the power to each device.
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 section 5.4)
•Set the DIP-switches (see section 5.5)
•Connect several VP-8x8 machines (see section 5.6)
5.1 Connecting the VP-8x8 Rear Panel
To connect the VP-8x8, do the following:
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 14 in Figure 1) and DO NOT push in the underside Flash Program “Reset”
button. These are only used for upgrading to the latest Kramer firmware.
1. Connect up to 8 VGA/UXGA computer graphics sources to the input
connectors (see the example in Figure 3).
2. Connect the 8 output connectors to up to 8 VGA/UXGA video acceptors.
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. Set the DIP-switches (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 (not shown in Figure 3).
i

VP-8x8 - Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher 9
Figure 3: Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA / UXGA Matrix Switcher
5.2 Connecting a PC
You can connect to the unit via a crossed RS-232 connection, using for example,
a PC. A crossed cable or null-modem is required as shown in method A and B
respectively. If a shielded cable is used, connect the shield to pin 5.
Method A (Figure 4)—Connect the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port on the unit via a
crossed cable (only pin 2to pin 3, pin 3to pin 2, and pin 5to pin 5need be
connected) to the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port on the PC.
Note: There is no need to connect any other pins.
OUTPUT 2
OUTPUT 1
OUTPUT 4
OUTPUT 3
OUTPUT 6
OUTPUT 5
OUTPUT 8
OUTPUT 7
INPUT 2
INPUT 1
INPUT 4
INPUT 3
INPUT 6
INPUT 5
INPUT 8
INPUT 7
GAB
RS-232
RS-485 Term
RS-485
Ethernet
Flash
Prog
Display 8
Display 1
Computer
Graphics
Source 8
Computer
Graphics
Source 1
RIR
EMOTE
RS-232
VGA
VGA VGA
VGA

10 VP-8x8 - Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher
Figure 4: Crossed Cable RS-232 Connection
Hardware flow control is not required for this unit. In the rare case where a
controller requires hardware flow control, short pin 1 to 7 and 8, and pin 4 to 6 on
the controller side.
Method B (Figure 5)—Connect the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port on the unit via a
straight (flat) cable to the null-modem adapter, and connect the null-modem
adapter to the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port on the PC. The straight cable usually
contains all nine wires for a full connection of the D-sub connector. Because the
null-modem adapter (which already includes the flow control jumpering described
in Method A above) only requires pins 2, 3 and 5 to be connected, you are free to
decide whether to connect only these 3 pins or all 9 pins.
Figure 5: Straight Cable RS-232 Connection with a Null Modem Adapter
5.3 Controlling via RS-485
You can operate the VP-8x8 via the RS-485 port from a distance of up to 1200m
(3900ft) using any device equipped with an RS-485 port (for example, a PC). For
successful communication, you must set the RS-485 machine number and bus
termination.
To connect a device with a RS-485 port to the product:
•Connect the A (+) pin on the RS-485 port of the PC to the A (+) pin on the
RS-485 port on the rear panel of the VP-8x8
1
2
6
3
7
4
8
5
9
1
2
6
3
7
4
8
5
9
PC
1
2
6
3
7
4
8
5
9
to PC
Null-Modem
Adapter

VP-8x8 - Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher 11
•Connect the B (–) pin on the RS-485 port of the PC to the B (–) pin on the
RS-485 port on the rear panel of the VP-8x8
•If needed, connect the G pin on the RS-485 port of the PC to the G pin on
the RS-485 port on the rear panel of the VP-8x8
•Set the VP-8x8 unit as Machine # 1, according to section 5.4 (that is, DIP 1,
DIP 2, DIP 3, and DIP 4 OFF), and set the other DIP-switches 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 120Ω)
5.4 Control Configuration via the Ethernet Port
You can connect the VP-8x8 via the Ethernet, using a crossover cable (see
section 5.4.1) for direct connection to the PC or a straight through cable (see
section 5.4.2) for connection via a network hub or network router.
After connecting the Ethernet port, you have to install and configure your Ethernet Port and also install the
COM Port Redirector. For detailed instructions, see the “Ethernet Configuration (Lantronix) guide.pdf” file in
the technical support section on our Web site: http://www.kramerelectronics.com
5.4.1 Connecting the ETHERNET Port directly to a PC (Crossover
Cable)
You can connect the Ethernet port of the VP-8x8 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 of the VP-8x8 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.

12 VP-8x8 - Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher
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

VP-8x8 - Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher 13
5.4.2 Connecting the ETHERNET Port via a Network Hub (Straight-
Through Cable)
You can connect the Ethernet port of the VP-8x8 to the Ethernet port on a network
hub or network router, via a straight-through cable with RJ-45 connectors.
5.4.3 Control Configuration via the Ethernet Port
To control several units via the Ethernet, connect the Master unit
(MACH NO. 1) via the Ethernet port to the LAN port of your PC. Use your PC
initially to configure the settings (see section 5.4).
5.5 Setting the DIP-Switches
By default, all DIP-switches are set to OFF. Figure 8 illustrates the VP-8x8 DIP-
switches:
Figure 8: VP-8x8 DIP-switches
DIPS Function Description
DELAY
1, 2, 3 DELAY Determines switching delay time (see the table in
section 5.5.1)
4 Reserved Set to OFF
SETUP
1, 2, 3, 4 Machine # Determines the number of the machine in the sequence
(see the table in section 5.5.2)
5, 6, 7 Reserved Set to OFF
8 RS-485 TERM
ON for RS-485 Line Termination with 120Ω;
OFF for no RS-485 Line Termination

14 VP-8x8 - Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher
5.5.1 Setting the Delay
You can achieve clean-looking transitions when switching between non-genlocked
sources by setting the delay time—ranging from 0sec to 3.5sec (in increments of
0.5sec)—via the DELAY DIP-switches, as the next table defines. The VP-8x8 unit
is shipped (its factory default state) with no delay, that is, the DELAY DIP-switches are
set up for a 0sec delay.
SEC DIP 1 DIP 2 DIP 3
0 OFF OFF OFF
0.5 OFF OFF ON
1.0 OFF ON OFF
1.5 OFF ON ON
2.0 ON OFF OFF
2.5 ON OFF ON
3.0 ON ON OFF
3.5 ON ON ON
5.5.2 Setting the Machine # DIP-Switches
The Machine # determines the position of a VP-8x8 unit, specifying which VP-8x8
unit is being controlled when several VP-8x8 units connect to a PC or serial
controller. Set the Machine # on a VP-8x8 unit via Setup DIPS 1, 2, 3 and 4,
according to the next table.
When using a standalone VP-8x8 unit, set the Machine # to 1. When connecting
more than one VP-8x8 unit, set the first machine (the Master) that is closest to the
PC, as Machine # 1 (DIP-switches are set to OFF).
Mach
# DIP 1 DIP 2 DIP 3 DIP 4 Mach # DIP 1 DIP 2 DIP 3 DIP 4
1 OFF OFF OFF OFF 9 ON OFF OFF OFF
2 OFF OFF OFF ON 10 ON OFF OFF ON
3 OFF OFF ON OFF 11 ON OFF ON OFF
4 OFF OFF ON ON 12 ON OFF ON ON
5 OFF ON OFF OFF 13 ON ON OFF OFF
6 OFF ON OFF ON 14 ON ON OFF ON
7 OFF ON ON OFF 15 ON ON ON OFF
8 OFF ON ON ON 16 ON ON ON ON

VP-8x8 - Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher 15
5.6 Cascading Machines
You can cascade up to 16 VP-8x8 units with control from a PC or serial controller
(see Figure 9).
To cascade up to 16 individual VP-8x8 units via RS-485, do the following:
1. Connect the VGA/UXGA sources and acceptors, as section 5.1 describes.
2. Connect the RS-232 port onto the first VP-8x8 unit to the PC using the null-
modem adapter provided with the machine (recommended), as section 5.2
describes.
Alternatively, the RS-485 port could be used for PC control (instead of RS-232)
3. Connect the RS-485 terminal block port on the first unit to the RS-485 port
on the second VP-8x8 unit and so on, connecting all the RS-485 ports.
4. Set the DIP-switches, as section 5.4 describes:
Set the first VP-8x8 unit as Machine # 1 and the following 15 VP-8x8
units as Machine # 2 to Machine # 16
Set DIP 8 ON on the first and last VP-8x8 units (terminating the
RS-485 line at 120Ω). Set DIP 8 OFF on the other VP-8x8 units
Set DIP 5, DIP 6 and DIP 7 OFF on all VP-8×8 units

16 VP-8x8 - Connecting the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher
Figure 9: Control Configuration via RS-232 and RS-485
Machine # 1 (Master)
Machine # 2
Machine # 16
Up to 16
Units

VP-8x8 - Operating the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix Switcher 17
6 Operating the VP-8x8 8x8 VGA/UXGA Matrix
Switcher
You can operate your VP-8x8 via:
•The front panel buttons
•RS-232/RS-485 serial commands transmitted by a touch screen system,
PC, or other serial controller
•The Kramer RC-IR3 Infrared Remote Control Transmitter
•The Ethernet
6.1 Displaying Unit Characteristics
The STATUS 7-segment display shows two sets of information, as defined in the
following table:
The STATUS Display Shows: When:
Unit
characteristics:
Firmware version
Machine number
Immediately (and
automatically) after
switching on the power
When simultaneously
pressing, for 3 seconds, the
3 “IN” buttons 1, 2 and 3
Normal display:
Inputs switched to
the outputs
During normal operation,
appears a few seconds
after the first display
The “First Display” appears
initially, followed a few
seconds later by the “Second
Display”
6.2 Confirming Settings
You can choose to work in the At Once or the Confirm mode.
In the At Once mode (the TAKE button is not illuminated):
•Pressing an OUT-IN combination implements the switch immediately
•You save time as execution is immediate and actions require no user
confirmation
Machine #
First Display
Firmware
version
#
11.0 0
input 8 is connected
to output 8
input 6 is connected
to output 3
Second Display
68