Kramer VS-88SDI User manual

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
Preliminary
USER MANUAL
Model:
VS-88SDI

Contents
i
Contents
1Introduction 1
2Getting Started 1
2.1 Quick Start 2
3Overview 3
4Your VS-88SDI 8x8 SDI Matrix Switcher 4
4.1 Using the IR Transmitter 7
5Installing the VS-88SDI in a Rack 8
6Connecting the VS-88SDI 9
6.1 Connecting the RS-232 Port 10
6.1.1 Determining the Machine Number 11
6.1.2 Setting the DIP-Switches 11
6.2 Connecting a PC or Controller to the RS-485 Port 12
6.2.1 Setting the Address Switches 12
6.2.2 Setting the Line Termination 13
6.3 Factory Reset 13
6.4 Switching Genlocked Video Signals 13
6.5 Connecting the Ethernet Port 13
6.5.1 Connecting the ETHERNET Port Directly to a PC (Crossover Cable) 14
6.5.2 Connecting the ETHERNET Port via a Network Hub (Straight-Through Cable) 15
6.6 Configuring the Ethernet Port 15
6.7 Controlling via the Ethernet Port 17
6.8 Using the Ethernet Reset Button 17
7Operating the VS-88SDI 18
7.1 Operating the VS-88SDI from the Front Panel 18
7.1.1 Power On Display 18
7.1.2 Using the AT ONCE and CONFIRM Modes 18
7.1.3 Switching in the AT ONCE Mode 18
7.1.4 Toggling Between Modes 19
7.1.5 Switching in the CONFIRM Mode 19
7.1.6 Storing an Input/Output Configuration 19
7.1.7 Recalling an Input/Output Configuration 20
7.1.8 Locking the Front Panel 20
7.1.9 Switching Protocols 20
7.1.10 Indicating Errors 20
7.2 Using Serial Commands 21
7.3 Using the Infrared Remote Controller 21
8Technical Specifications 21
9Communication Parameters 22
10 Using the P3K Wizard 22

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Contents
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10.1 Changing the Device Parameters 22
10.2 Updating the VS-88SDI Firmware 25
11 Kramer Protocol 3000 26
11.1 Switching Protocols 26
11.2 Kramer Protocol 3000 Syntax 27
11.2.1 Host Message Format 27
11.2.1.1 Simple Command 27
11.2.1.2 Command String 27
11.2.2 Device Message Format 27
11.2.2.1 Device Long Response 27
11.2.3 Command Terms 28
11.2.4 Entering Commands 28
11.2.5 Command Forms 29
11.2.6 Command Chaining 29
11.2.7 Maximum String Length 29
11.2.8 Backward Support 29
11.3 Kramer Protocol 3000 Commands 30
11.3.1 Device Initiated Messages 30
11.3.2 Result and Error Codes 30
11.3.3 Basic Routing Commands 30
11.3.4 Preset Commands 31
11.3.5 Operation Commands 31
11.3.6 Machine Information Commands 31
11.3.7 Identification Commands 32
11.3.8 Network Setting Commands 32
12 Hex Table (Protocol 2000) 33
13 Kramer Protocol 2000 34
Figures
Figure 1: VS-88SDI 8x8 SDI Matrix Switcher 5
Figure 2: Connecting the VS-88SDI 8x8 SDI Matrix Switcher 10
Figure 3: DIP-Switch Settings 12
Figure 4: Local Area Connection Properties Window 14
Figure 5: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Window 15
Figure 6: Connect Screen 16
Figure 7: Device Properties Screen 17
Figure 8: P3K Wizard Screen 23
Figure 9: Connect Window 24
Figure 10: Device Properties Window 25

Contents
iii
Tables
Table 1: Front Panel VS-88SDI 8x8 SDI Matrix Switcher 6
Table 2: Rear Panel VS-88SDI 8x8 SDI Matrix Switcher 6
Table 3: Machine # DIP-Switch Settings 11
Table 4: DIP-Switch Settings 12
Table 5: Genlock Settings 13
Table 6: VS-88SDI Technical Specifications 21
Table 7: Communication Parameters 22
Table 8: VS-88SDI Hex Codes for Switching via RS-232/RS-485 33
Table 9: Protocol Definitions 34
Table 10: Instruction Codes for Protocol 2000 35

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 VS-88SDI , which is ideal for:
that are clearly
defined by function.
•Professional broadcasting and production studios
•Presentation applications
The package includes the following items:
•The VS-88SDI
•RC-IR3remote control (with manual)
•Power cord2
•This user manual
and rack “ears”
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:

Overview
3
3
3 Overview
The VS-88SDI is a high-performance matrix switcher for SDI signals. The
unit can switch up to 8 inputs to any or all of 8 outputs.
In particular, the VS-88SDI features:
•Operation of up to 540Mbps – enabling it to be used for standard
definition serial digital video signals (SDI)
•SMPTE 259M, 344M, compliance and support for data rates of
540Mbps
•Cable equalization up to 350m for SD1
•Reclocking and equalization on each input, storing and recalling
setups, and a TAKE button for the execution of multiple switches
all at once
signals
•The ability to switch genlocked video signals according to the
timing of the genlock reference input. Switching according to the
bi-level or tri-level genlock input2
The VS-88SDI is housed in a 19" 1U rack-mountable enclosure, and is fed
from a 100-240 VAC universal switching power supply. The unit can be
controlled via the front panel buttons or via:
according to SMPTE RP-168
•An infrared remote control transmitter
•An infrared remote extension cable transmitter
•Remotely, by RS-232 or RS-485 serial commands transmitted by a
PC, touch screen system, or other serial controller
•The Ethernet
•By default, the VS-88SDI is operated using the Kramer 3000
protocol (see section 7.1.9 for details of how to switch to Protocol
2000 and section 10.2 for the relevant protocol commands)
1 Standard Definition (SD) means an NTSC or PAL compatible video format, consisting of 480 (for NTSC) or 576 (for PAL)
lines of interlaced video
2 The sources must be genlocked to the GENLOCK input in order to switch clearly

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VS-88SDI
4
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
VS-88SDI 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 VS-88SDI
Figure 1, Table 1, and Table 2define the VS-88SDI .
1 Available from Kramer Electronics on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com

Your VS-88SDI
5
Figure 1: VS-88SDI

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VS-88SDI
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Table 1: Front Panel VS-88SDI
#
Feature
Function
1 IR Receiver The yellow LED is illuminates when receiving signals from the infrared remote
control transmitter
2 POWER LED Illuminates when the unit is ON
3 ALL Button Pressing ALL followed by an INPUT button, connects that input to all outputs
4 OFF Button Pressing OFF+OUT disconnects that output from the inputs;
pressing OFF+ALL disconnects all the outputs
5 IN SELECT Buttons Select the input to switch to the output;
long presses on buttons IN1 to IN5 change the genlock timing (see Table 5)
6 OUT SELECT Buttons Select the output to which the input is switched
7 STO (STORE) Button Pressing STO followed by an IN / OUT button stores the current setting
8 RCL (RECALL) Button Pressing the RCL button and the corresponding INPUT / OUTPUT key recalls a
setup from the non-volatile memory
9 LOCK Button A long press toggles activation/inactivation of the front panel buttons;
pressing LOCK+OUT2 selects Protocol 2000; pressing LOCK+OUT3 selects
Protocol 3000
10 TAKE Button Pressing TAKE toggles the mode between the CONFIRM mode and the AT
ONCE mode (user confirmation per action is unnecessary)
11 7-segment Display Displays the selected input switched to the output (marked above each input)
Table 2: Rear Panel VS-88SDI
#
Feature
Function
12 GENLOCK BNC Connector Connects to the genlock source
13 TERM HI-Z/75Ω Pushbutton Press to terminate the genlock source (75Ω) or release for looping
14 LOOP BNC Connector Connects to the genlock connector of the next unit in the line
15 INPUT BNC Connectors Connects to the serial digital video sources
16 RS-232 9-pin D-sub (F) Port Connects to the PC or the remote controller
17 PROG/RS-485 TERM
DIP-switches PROG DIP-switch enables microcontroller firmware upgrade RS-485 TERM DIP-switch terminates the RS-485 line with a 120Ω load
18 RS-485 Terminal Block Port Pins B (-) and A (+) are for RS-485;
Pin G may be connected to the shield (if required)
19 ETHERNET RJ-45 Connector Connects to the PC or other Serial Controller through computer networking
LAN
20 MACH # DIP-switches DIP-switches 1-4 for setting the Machine Address of the unit
21 ETH RESET Button Press to reset to factory default definitions
1
22
:
IP number −192.168.1.39, Mask – 255.255.0.0, Gateway – 0.0.0.0
OUTPUT BNC Connectors Connect to the serial digital video acceptors
23 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)2
24 Power Connector with Fuse AC connector enabling power supply to the unit
25 Power Switch Turns the power to the unit ON and OFF
1 First disconnect the power cord and then connect it again while pressing the ETH Factory Reset button. The unit powers up
and loads its memory with the factory default definitions and erases all stored presets
2 Optional. Can be used instead of the front panel (built-in) IR receiver to remotely control the VS-88SDI (only if the internal
IR connection cable has been installed) (See section 4.1)

Your VS-88SDI
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7
4.1 Using the IR Transmitter
You can use the RC-IR3IR transmitter to control the machine via the built-
in IR receiver on the front panel or, instead, via an optional external IR
receiver1. 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 cables2
Before using the external IR receiver, be sure to arrange for your Kramer
dealer to insert the internal IR connection cable11F
3with the 3.5mm connector
that fits into the REMOTE IR opening on the rear panel. Connect the
external IR receiver to the REMOTE IR 3.5mm connector.
1 Model: C-A35M/IRR-50
2 Model: C-A35M/A35F-50
3 P/N: 505-70434010-S

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Installing the VS-88SDI in a Rack
8
5 Installing the VS-88SDI in a Rack
.
This section provides instructions for rack mounting the 1U unit.

Connecting the VS-88SDI
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9
6 Connecting the VS-88SDI
The VS-88SDI can switch one of the eight SDI inputs to any or all of the
eight SDI outputs, as the example in Figure 2shows.
To connect the VS-88SDI , do the following1
1. Connect up to eight SDI sources to the SDI INPUT BNC connectors (for
example, an SDI camera to INPUT 1 and an SDI player to INPUT 8).
:
2. Connect the SDI OUTPUT BNC connectors to up to eight SDI acceptors
(for example, OUTPUT 1 to a non-linear editor, and OUTPUT 8 to an SDI
display).
3. Set the DIP-switches (see section 6.1.2).
4. Optionally2
•A genlock source to the GENLOCK BNC connector
, connect:
•The LOOP BNC connector to the GENLOCK connector of the
next unit in the line, and release the TERM button for looping3
5. Connect a PC and/or controller (if required), to the:
•RS-232 port (see section 6.1), and/or
•RS-485 port (see section 6.2), and/or
•ETHERNET connector (see section 6.3)
6. Connect the power cord4
1 Switch OFF the power on each device before connecting it to your VS-88SDI. After connecting your VS-88SDI, switch on
its power and then switch on the power on each device
.
2 Not illustrated in Figure 2
3 Pushed in terminates the input. Release when the input extends to another unit
4 We recommend that you use only the power cord that is supplied with this machine

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VS-88SDI
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Figure 2: Connecting the VS-88SDI
6.1 Connecting the RS-232 Port
You can connect to the VS-88SDI via an RS-232 connection using, for
example, a PC. Note that a null-modem adapter/connection is not required.
To connect to the VS-88SDI via RS-232:
•Connect the RS-232 9-pin D-sub rear panel port on the VS-88SDI
unit via a 9-wire straight cable (pin 2 to pin 2, pin 3 to pin 3, pin 5
to pin 5) to the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port on your PC

Connecting the VS-88SDI
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11
6.1.1 Determining the Machine Number
Each unit must be identified by a unique Machine #. Determine the
Machine #according to Table 3.
•When using a single unit, set the unit to Machine # 1.
•A master unit must be Machine #1.
When connecting more than one VS-88SDI unit, set a different Machine #
on each unit. The units do not have to be numbered sequentially but each
unit must have a unique machine number.
Table 3: Machine # DIP-Switch Settings
Machine # DIP-SWITCH
1 2 3 4
1 (Single or
master unit1OFF ON) OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF
2 OFF ON OFF OFF
3 ON ON OFF OFF
4 OFF OFF ON OFF
5 ON OFF ON OFF
6 OFF ON ON OFF
7 ON ON ON OFF
8 OFF OFF OFF ON
9 ON OFF OFF ON
10 OFF ON OFF ON
11 ON ON OFF ON
12 OFF OFF ON ON
13 ON OFF ON ON
14 OFF ON ON ON
15 ON ON ON ON
Note: After changing the address, the device must be reset by turning OFF
and ON.
6.1.2 Setting the DIP-Switches
When controlling a unit via the RS-232 or RS-485 ports set the
DIP-switches on the rear of the unit. Figure 3and Table 4define the
DIP-switches2
1 A single or master unit can have the address 0 or 1
:
2 The default address is 0 (all DIP-switches are OFF)

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VS-88SDI
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Figure 3: DIP-Switch Settings
Table 4: DIP-Switch Settings
DIPS
Function
Description
RS-485 Term RS-485 line termination OFF for no RS-485 line termination
ON for RS-485 120Ωline termination
PROG Firmware update Set ON only to update device firmware
MACH # 1, 2, 3, 4 Self Address Sets the MACHINE # (see section 6.1.1)
The RS-485 TERM DIP-switch is used only when the RS-485 port is
connected (see section 6.2.2). The first and last units on the RS-485 line
(for example, the controller and the last VS-88SDI) must be terminated;
the units in between must not be terminated.
Set the PROG DIP-switch ON only while updating the unit firmware,
otherwise the switch must be OFF.
6.2 Connecting a PC or Controller to the RS-485 Port
You can operate the VS-88SDI via the RS-485 port from a distance of up to
1200 meters (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 VS-88SDI:
•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 VS-88SDI
•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 VS-88SDI
•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 VS-88SDI
6.2.1 Setting the Address Switches
To set the address DIP-switches:
•Assign Master Machine #1 to the master unit with the address
0 or 1 set in the DIP-switches
•Assign a unique Machine # from 2 to 15 for each VS-88SDI slave
unit using Table 3. The units do not have to be sequentially
numbered but they must have unique addresses

Connecting the VS-88SDI
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13
6.2.2 Setting the Line Termination
To ensure correct operation, the RS-485 line must be terminated at both
ends. The master unit may be located at any part of the line, but when it is at
the end of the line, the termination switch must be set ON.
To set line termination, as shown in Figure 3:
•For the VS-88SDI units located at the ends of the RS-485 line, set
the RS-485 TERM DIP-switch ON
•For all other VS-88SDI units in the middle of the line, set the
RS-485 TERM DIP-switch OFF
6.3 Factory Reset
To perform a factory reset and reset the machine to its default values, press
the ETH RESET button in with a small screwdriver or pointed object.
6.4 Switching Genlocked Video Signals
The genlock feature lets you switch genlocked video signals according to
timing of the GENLOCK reference input1
1. Connect the GENLOCK cable.
.
2. To set the genlock timing, press and hold for 3 seconds the appropriate input
button as follows2
Table 5: Genlock Settings
:
To Set Press and Hold
for 3 Seconds
Displayed
PAL @50Hz IN 4 PAL 50H
NTSC @60Hz IN 5 NTSC 60H
Note: When turning the machine ON, the last stored setup is shown in the
7-segment display.
6.5 Connecting the Ethernet Port
You can connect the VS-88SDI via the ETHERNET in the following ways:
•For direct connection to the PC, use a crossover cable (see section
6.5.1)
•For connection via a network hub or network router, use a
1 According to SMPTE RP-168. The sources must be genlocked to the GENLOCK input in order to switch cleanly
2 The unit will detect automatically when SD-SDI inputs are used

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VS-88SDI
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straight-through cable (see section 6.5.2)
6.5.1 Connecting the ETHERNET Port Directly to a PC (Crossover
Cable)
You can connect the Ethernet port of the VS-88SDI 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 address1
After connecting the Ethernet port, configure your PC as follows:
of the VS-88SDI during the initial configuration
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 4).
Figure 4: Local Area Connection Properties Window
1 The default IP address is 192.168.1.39

Connecting the VS-88SDI
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15
6. Select Use the following IP Address, and fill in the details as shown in
Figure 5.
7. Click OK.
Figure 5: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Window
6.5.2 Connecting the ETHERNET Port via a Network Hub (Straight-
Through Cable)
You can connect the Ethernet port of the VS-88SDI to the Ethernet port on
a network hub or network router, via a straight-through cable with RJ-45
connectors.
6.6 Configuring the Ethernet Port
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:

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VS-88SDI
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Figure 6: Connect Screen
2. Select the method to connect to the Ethernet port of the VS-88SDI.
Select:
Ethernet, if you know the IP address number1or the machine
name. The default name for the machine is KRAMER_XXXX2
Serial, if you are connected via a serial port
3. Click OK.
The Device Properties window appears:
1 The default IP address is 192.168.1.39
2 The four digits are the last four digits of the machine’s serial number.