Kramer VSM-4x4A User manual

USER MANUAL
MODEL:
VSM-4x4A
4x4 Seamless AV Matrix Switcher/Multi-Scaler
P/N: 2900-300668 Rev 2 www.KramerAV.com

VSM-4x4A – Contents
i
Contents
1Introduction 1
2Getting Started 2
2.1 Achieving the Best Performance 2
2.2 Safety Instructions 3
2.3 Recycling Kramer Products 3
3Overview 4
3.1 Defining the VSM-4x4A 5
4Installing in a Rack 8
5Connecting and Operating the VSM-4x4A 9
5.1 Matrix Mode 10
5.2 Video Wall Mode 11
5.3 Dual Mode 15
5.4 Quad Mode 17
5.5 Wiring the RJ-45 Connectors 19
5.6 Connecting the Balanced Stereo Audio Line Output 19
6Controlling the VSM-4x4A 20
6.1 Controlling via the Front Panel Buttons 20
6.2 Using the OSD Menu 26
6.3 Connecting to the VSM-4x4A via RS-232 33
6.4 Operating the VSM-4x4A via Ethernet 34
6.5 Controlling via the IR Remote Control 38
6.6 Using the IR Remote Control in Dual Mode 39
7Firmware Upgrade 43
8Using the Embedded Web Pages 44
8.1 Browsing the VSM-4x4A Web Pages 44
8.2 Routing & Scaling Page 45
8.3 Device Settings Page 55
8.4 Output Settings Page 61
8.5 Audio Settings Page 65
8.6 HDCP Settings Page 66
8.7 EDID Management Page 67
8.8 About Page 69
8.9 Saving and Uploading Configurations 69
9Technical Specifications 70
9.1 Default Communication Parameters 70
9.2 Supported Input Resolutions 71
9.3 Supported Output Resolutions 71
10 VSM-4x4A RS-232/Ethernet Communication Protocol 72
10.1 Understanding Protocol 3000 73
10.2 Kramer Protocol 3000 Syntax 74
10.3 Protocol 3000 Commands 75
Figures
Figure 1: VSM-4x4A 4x4 Seamless AV Matrix Switcher/Multi-Scaler Front Panel 6
Figure 2: VSM-4x4A 4x4 Seamless AV Matrix Switcher/Multi-Scaler Rear Panel 7

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VSM-4x4A –Contents
Figure 3: Connecting the VSM-4x4A Presentation Switcher / Scaler 10
Figure 4: VSM-4x4A Video Wall Operation Mode 11
Figure 5: Connecting the VSM-4x4A in 2x2 Video Wall Operation Mode 12
Figure 6: Connecting the VSM-4x4A in 1x4 Video Wall Operation Mode 13
Figure 7: VSM-4x4A Bezel Correction 14
Figure 8: Connecting the VSM-4x4A in Dual Operation Mode 16
Figure 9: the VSM-4x4A QUAD Operation Mode Input Orientation 17
Figure 10: Connecting the VSM-4x4A in Quad Operation Mode 18
Figure 11: TP PINOUT 19
Figure 12: Connecting the Balanced Stereo Audio Output 19
Figure 13: Connecting an Unbalanced Stereo Audio Acceptor to the Balanced Output 19
Figure 14: Local Area Connection Properties Window 35
Figure 15: Internet Protocol Version 4 Properties Window 36
Figure 16: Internet Protocol Version 6 Properties Window 36
Figure 17: Internet Protocol Properties Window 37
Figure 18: Infrared Remote Control Transmitter 38
Figure 19: IR Remote Control Transmitter Dual Mode Shortcuts 39
Figure 20: The Routing & Scaling Page 45
Figure 21: The Matrix Tab output Resolution (Seamless Mode) 46
Figure 22: Matrix Tab output Resolution (Independent Mode) 47
Figure 23: 2x2 Video Wall Tab 48
Figure 24: 1x4 Video Wall Tab 48
Figure 25: The Video Wall Tab –Bezel Correction 49
Figure 26: The Video Wall Tab –Crop/Position Correction 49
Figure 27: The Dual Tab –POP Mode 50
Figure 28: The Dual Tab –PIP Mode 50
Figure 29: The Dual Tab –PIP Position and Size 51
Figure 30: The Quad Tab 52
Figure 31: The Matrix Tab –Store a Configuration 53
Figure 32: The Matrix Tab –Recall a Configuration 53
Figure 33: Matrix Tab –Input Edit Window 53
Figure 34: The Matrix Tab –Typing the New Label 54
Figure 35: The Matrix Tab –Viewing the Label 54
Figure 36: The Device Settings Page 55
Figure 37: The Device Settings Page –Ethernet Settings 56
Figure 38: The Device Settings Page –IP Number Settings 56
Figure 39: Device Settings Page –Information Window 57
Figure 40: Device Settings Page –Uploading the Firmware File 58
Figure 41: Device Settings Page –Firmware Upgrade Message 58
Figure 42: Device Settings Page –Firmware Upgrade Complete 59
Figure 43: The Device Settings Page –Factory Reset Message 59
Figure 44: The Device Settings Page –Factory Reset 60
Figure 45: The Output Settings Page –Matrix and Video Wall Modes 61
Figure 46: Output Settings Page –Dual-POP Mode 62
Figure 47: Output Settings Page –Dual PIP Mode 63
Figure 48: Output Settings Page –Quad Mode 64
Figure 49: The Audio Settings Page 65
Figure 50: HDCP Settings Page 66
Figure 51: EDID Management Page 67
Figure 52: EDID Management Page –selecting an Output 67
Figure 53: EDID Management Page –Copying the Native Timing 68
Figure 54: EDID Management Page –Copy EDID Results 68
Figure 55: The About Page 69
Figure 56: Loading a Configuration 69

VSM-4x4A – 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 video, audio, presentation, and broadcasting professionals
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 15 groups that are clearly defined by
function: GROUP 1: Distribution Amplifiers; GROUP 2: Switchers and Routers;
GROUP 3: Control Systems; GROUP 4: Format & Standards Converters; GROUP
5: Range Extenders & Repeaters; GROUP 6: Specialty AV Products; GROUP 7:
Scalers; GROUP 8: Cables and Connectors; GROUP 9: Room Connectivity;
GROUP 10: Mounting and Rack Adapters; GROUP 11: Sierra Video; GROUP 12:
Digital Signage; GROUP 13: Audio; GROUP 14: Collaboration; and GROUP 15: KM
& KVM Switches.
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer VSM-4x4A 4x4 Seamless AV Matrix
Switcher/Multi-Scaler.
The VSM-4x4A incorporates HDMI™ technology and is ideal for:
Conference room presentations
Advertising applications, shopping malls and museums
Post production applications
Rental and staging
Security applications
Video-wall scaling
Applications with multiple inputs and outputs
Applications where quick, sleek, seamless switching is required
Any application requiring 4 scalers in a single 1RU rack space

2
VSM-4x4A –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
Go to www.kramerav.com/downloads/VSM-4x4A 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 (we recommend Kramer high-
performance, high-resolution cables) to avoid interference, deterioration in
signal quality due to poor matching, and elevated noise levels (often
associated with low quality cables)
Do not secure the cables in tight bundles or roll the slack into tight coils
Avoid interference from neighbouring electrical appliances that may adversely
influence signal quality
Position your Kramer VSM-4x4A away from moisture, excessive sunlight and
dust
This equipment is to be used only inside a building. It may only be
connected to other equipment that is installed inside a building.

VSM-4x4A – Getting Started
3
2.2 Safety Instructions
Caution:
There are no operator serviceable parts inside the unit
Warning:
Use only the power cord that is supplied with the unit
Warning:
Do not open the unit. High voltages can cause electrical
shock! Servicing by qualified personnel only
Warning:
Disconnect the power and unplug the unit from the wall
before installing
2.3 Recycling Kramer Products
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC aims
to reduce the amount of WEEE sent for disposal to landfill or incineration by
requiring it to be collected and recycled. To comply with the WEEE Directive,
Kramer Electronics has made arrangements with the European Advanced
Recycling Network (EARN) and will cover any costs of treatment, recycling and
recovery of waste Kramer Electronics branded equipment on arrival at the EARN
facility. For details of Kramer’s recycling arrangements in your particular country go
to our recycling pages at www.kramerav.com/support/recycling/.

4
VSM-4x4A –Overview
3 Overview
The VSM-4x4A is a 4x4 seamless matrix switcher that can also be used as a video
wall driver (2x2 or 1x4) or dual and quad multi-viewers. The unit enables switching
between inputs with a clean video cut (frame-to-frame switching with no glitches).
The VSM-4x4A supports HDMI resolutions with deep color, up to eight channels of
audio and includes per-port HDCP and EDID settings. The unit has 4 inputs and 4
outputs on HDMI connectors. The audio output signals are embedded in the HDMI
outputs and are also output via mirrored unbalanced and balanced analog signals
for each output.
The VSM-4x4A features:
PixPerfect™scaling technology –Kramer’s precision pixel mapping and high
quality scaling technology
HDTV compatibility
HDCP compliance –The HDCP (High Definition Content Protection) license
agreement allows copy-protected data on the HDMI input to pass only to the
HDMI outputs
4 HDMI inputs and four scaled HDMI outputs
4 balanced and 4 unbalanced audio outputs with independent volume settings
per output as well as embedded audio on the HDMI outputs
Selectable operation modes –seamless matrix switcher (seamless or
independent setup), video wall (2x2 or 1x4 configuration), dual display
(Split/PIP/POP) or quad display
Bezel correction options –in the video wall mode
Independent switching mode allows for separate output resolutions. Input
switching is not via seamless video cuts in this mode, but the switching is still
clean (outputs do retain constant sync during the switch transition)
HDMI support for Deep Color, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS, DTS−HD®, LPCM
2CH/6CH/8CH, AC3
HDCP and EDID settings per port
VGA to WUXGA and 480i to 1080p input resolution range

VSM-4x4A – Overview
5
480p to 1080p output resolution range
Multiple aspect ratio selections –full, 4:3, 16:9 and best fit
Built-in ProcAmp –color, hue, sharpness, noise, contrast and brightness
Front panel control –operation mode, TAKE button, and menu buttons
4 preset memory locations for each operation mode for quick access to
common IN-OUT configurations
Front panel lockout
Non-volatile memory –saves final settings
Additional internal memory (to support larger F/W code)
Firmware upgrade via Ethernet or via the program mini USB connector
Control your VSM-4x4A:
Directly, via the front panel push buttons
By RS-232 serial commands transmitted by a touch screen system, PC, or
other serial controller
Remotely, from the infrared remote control transmitter with OSD (on-screen
display)
Via the Ethernet with built-in Web pages
The VSM-4x4A is housed in a 19” 1U rack mountable enclosure, with rack ears
included, and is fed from a 100-240 VAC universal switching power supply.
3.1 Defining the VSM-4x4A
This section defines the VSM-4x4A.

Figure 1: VSM-4x4A 4x4 Seamless AV Matrix Switcher/Multi-Scaler Front Panel
#
Feature
Function
1
IR LED
Lights when the unit accepts IR remote commands
IR Receiver
Receives signals from the remote control transmitter
2
OUTPUT/WINDOW
Selector Buttons
In the MATRIX mode: select the output to which the input is switched (A, B, C or D)
In the VIDEO WALL mode: not used
In the DUAL mode: select one of the two DUAL windows: A or B for DUAL A; C or D for DUAL B (see Section 5.3)
In the QUAD mode: not used
3
INPUT Selector Buttons
Press to select an HDMI input (from 1 to 4) to switch to the output
4
ALL Button
Press ALL followed by an INPUT button to connect that input to all the outputs (not available for the video wall mode)
5
OFF Button
Press after pressing an output button to disconnect the selected output from the inputs. To disconnect all the outputs, press ALL followed
by OFF
6
TAKE Button
Press to toggle between the Confirm mode (when in the Confirm mode, the TAKE button lights ) and the AtOnce mode. When in TAKE
mode, front panel buttons actions are implemented after pressing the TAKE button (see Section 6.1.2)
7
MODE
Buttons
MATRIX
Press to operate the system as a matrix switcher (see Section 5.1)
8
VIDEO WALL
Press to operate as a 2x2 or 1x4 video wall (see Section 5.2)
9
DUAL
Press to operate as a 4x2 switcher with PIP capabilities (see Section 5.3)
10
QUAD
Press to display all four inputs on each of the outputs (see Section 5.4)
11
STO Button
Press to store a configuration (see Section 6.1.3)
12
RCL Button
Press to recall a configuration (see Section 6.1.3)
13
IDENTIFY Button
Press to indicate on each output, which input is displayed on the output. The display time is set via the OSD menu (see Section 6.2.1)
6
VSM-4x4A –Overview

VSM-4x4A –Overview
7
#
Feature
Function
14
MENU
Press to access the OSD menu, exit the OSD menu and, when in the OSD menu, move to the previous level in the OSD screen (see
Section 6.1.2)
15
Navigation
Buttons
ENTER
Press to access sub-menu items and select from several settings (see Section 6.1.2)

Press to decrease numerical values or select from several definitions

Press to move up the menu list values (see Section 6.1.2)

Press to increase numerical values or select from several definitions

Press to move down the menu list (see Section 6.1.2)
16
RESET TO XGA/1080p
Button
Press and hold for about 4 seconds to toggle resetting the video resolution to XGA or 1080p
17
PANEL LOCK Button
Press and hold for about 2 seconds to lock/unlock the front panel buttons
Figure 2: VSM-4x4A 4x4 Seamless AV Matrix Switcher/Multi-Scaler Rear Panel
#
Feature
Function
18
INPUT HDMI Connectors
Connect to the HDMI sources (from 1 to 4)
19
AUDIO OUTPUT 3.5mm Mini Jack
Connect to an unbalanced audio acceptor (from A to D)
20
AUDIO OUTPUT 5-pin Terminal Block Connector
Connect to a balanced audio acceptor (from A to D)
21
OUTPUT HDMI Connectors
Connect to the HDMI acceptors (from A to D); DUAL: when in the dual operation mode, A, A and B, B
22
ETHERNET Connector
Connects to the PC or other Serial Controller through computer networking
23
PROG USB Connector
Connect to upgrade the unit
24
RS-232 9-pin D-sub Port
Connect to the PC or a remote controller
25
Mains Socket
Connect the mains power cord
26
Mains Fuse Holder
Fuse for protecting the device
27
Power Switch
Switch for turning the unit ON or OFF

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VSM-4x4A –Installing in a Rack
4 Installing in a Rack
This section provides instructions for rack mounting the unit.

VSM-4x4A –Connecting and Operating the VSM-4x4A
9
9
5 Connecting and Operating the VSM-4x4A
The VSM-4x4A is a four-in-one box device. It can operate as a:
Matrix switcher
Video wall
Dual switcher
Quad switcher
You can select the different operation modes via front panel buttons, the IR remote
control transmitter and OSD menu or via the Web pages.
This section describes how to connect and operate the VSM-4x4A in each of the
four operation modes.
Always switch off the power to each device before connecting it to
your VSM-4x4A. After connecting your VSM-4x4A, connect its power
and then switch on the power to each device.
This section describes selecting inputs via the front panel buttons.
To select the inputs via the OSD, use the SOURCE menu item (see
Section 6.2.1).
To select the inputs via the IR remote control transmitter, see
Section 6.6.
You do not have to connect all the inputs and outputs, connect only
those that are required.

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VSM-4x4A –Connecting and Operating the VSM-4x4A
5.1 Matrix Mode
The VSM-4x4A matrix switcher mode is the default operation mode. Any of the four
inputs can be switched to any of the four outputs. Switching is immediate and
seamless.
5.1.1 Connecting the VSM-4x4A in Matrix Mode
To connect the VSM-4x4Ain Matrix mode, as illustrated in the example in
Figure 3:
1. Connect up to four HDMI sources (for example, laptops and/or Blu-ray disk
players) to the HDMI INPUT connectors (from INPUT 1 to INPUT 4).
2. Connect the four HDMI OUTPUT connectors (from OUTPUT A to OUTPUT
D) to up to four HDMI acceptors (for example, displays and/or projectors).
3. Connect the four OUTPUT unbalanced stereo audio 3.5mm mini jacks and/or
the four balanced stereo audio terminal block connectors (see Section 5.6) to
up to four audio acceptors (for example, active speakers or audio power
amplifiers).
4. Connect the power cord.
5. If required, connect:
A PC via RS-232, see Section 6.3
The ETHERNET port, see Section 6.4
Figure 3: Connecting the VSM-4x4A Presentation Switcher / Scaler

VSM-4x4A –Connecting and Operating the VSM-4x4A
11
11
5.1.2 Operating the VSM-4x4A in Matrix Mode
To select the inputs via the front panel buttons/IR remote control transmitter:
1. Press MATRIX MODE on the front panel to select the Matrix operation
mode.
2. Press MENU on the front panel to display the OSD menu (see Section 6.2)
and define the matrix switcher option (seamless or independent).
3. Press an output (A to D) button and then an input button (1 to 4) to switch to
the selected output.
4. If required, press TAKE to switch several inputs and outputs at once (see
Section 6.1.2).
5.2 Video Wall Mode
In Video Wall mode, you can display the output on a set of four monitors /
projectors / TV sets that are tiled together in a 2x2 or 1x4 setting to form one large
display. Each output shows one quarter of the image as shown in the example in
Figure 4.
In Video Wall mode, the audio of the selected input is routed to one of the outputs.
Figure 4: VSM-4x4A Video Wall Operation Mode
5.2.1 Connecting the VSM-4x4A in Video Wall Mode
To connect the video wall as illustrated in Figure 5 and Figure 6:
1. Connect the inputs, not shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6.

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VSM-4x4A –Connecting and Operating the VSM-4x4A
2. Connect the HDMI output connectors to the video wall screens, as follows:
For a 2x2 setup, connect:
OUTPUT A to the top left screen
OUTPUT B to the top right screen
OUTPUT C to the bottom left
screen
OUTPUT D to the bottom right
screen
For a 1x4 setup, connect OUTPUT
A to the top screen, outputs B and
C below in sequence, and
OUTPUT D to the lowest screen.
3. Connect the power cord.
4. If required, connect:
A PC via RS-232, see Section 6.3
The ETHERNET port, see Section 6.4
Figure 5 shows a 2x2 video wall layout:
Figure 5: Connecting the VSM-4x4A in 2x2 Video Wall Operation Mode

VSM-4x4A –Connecting and Operating the VSM-4x4A
13
13
Figure 6 shows a 2x2 video wall layout:
Figure 6: Connecting the VSM-4x4A in 1x4 Video Wall Operation Mode
5.2.2 Operating the VSM-4x4A in Video Wall Mode
To select the inputs via the front panel buttons/IR remote control transmitter:
1. Press VIDEO WALL on the front panel to select the Video Wall operation
mode.
2. Press MENU on the front panel to open the OSD menu (see Section 6.2)
and define the video wall setup (2x2 or 1x4).
3. Press an input button (1 to 4) to switch to the output.