Kramer VCO-1 User manual

USER MANUAL
MODELS:
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16
Video Content Overlay Solution
P/N: 2900-300592 Rev 1 www.kramerAV.com

VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – 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 Video Content Overlay Solution 6
4Installing the VCO-8 and VCO-16 in a Rack 9
5Connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 10
5.1 Connecting the VCO-8 / VCO-16 10
5.2 Connecting the VCO-1 12
6Looping the VCO-8 and VCO-16 13
7Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 15
7.1 Install the VCO Setup Application 15
7.2 Setup & About 19
7.3 Setting the Overlays 32
7.4 Scheduling the Overlays 56
8Defining an IP Address for a Device 66
8.1 Setting a Static IP Address 66
8.2 Operating via the Ethernet 70
9Technical Specifications 75
9.1 Default Communication Parameters 76
10 Communication Protocol 77
10.1 Understanding Protocol 3000 78
10.2 Kramer Protocol 3000 Syntax 80
10.3 Protocol 3000 Commands 81
Figures
Figure 1: VCO-1 Front and Rear Panels 6
Figure 2: VCO-8 and VCO-16 Front Panels 7
Figure 3: VCO-8 and VCO-16 Rear Panels 8
Figure 4: Connecting the VCO-8 / VCO-16 11
Figure 5: Connecting the VCO-1 12
Figure 6: A Set of 2 Looped VCO-16 Units 14
Figure 7: Installing the VCO Setup App - Warning 16
Figure 8: Installing the VCO Setup App – Setup Application Description 16
Figure 9: Installing the VCO Setup App – Legal info 16
Figure 10: Installing the VCO Setup App – Setting the Destination Folder 17
Figure 11: Installing the VCO Setup App– Installing the Software 17
Figure 12: Installing the VCO Setup App – Installation is Complete 17
Figure 13: Installing the VCO Setup App – The Setup & About Tab 18
Figure 14: Setup & About Tab 19
Figure 15: Setup & About – Selecting the Language 19
Figure 16: Welcome to Device Wizard 20
Figure 17: Device Wizard 21
Figure 18: Device Wizard – Add Device Manually 22

ii VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Contents
Figure 19: Device Wizard – Selecting a Device 22
Figure 20: Device Wizard – Device Selected 23
Figure 21: Device Wizard – Setting the IP Address 23
Figure 22: Device Wizard – Setting the Lower Number of the IP address. 24
Figure 23: Device Wizard – Setting the Higher parts of the IP Address 25
Figure 24: Device Wizard – Changing the IP Address 25
Figure 25: Device Wizard – Changing the Higher Parts of the IP Address 26
Figure 26: Changing the IP Address Message 26
Figure 27: Device Wizard – Changing the IP Address Higher Parts 27
Figure 28: Device Wizard – Testing the IP Address Change 27
Figure 29: Device Wizard Setting the Recommended Name 28
Figure 30: Device Wizard – Set the Device Name 28
Figure 31: Device Wizard – Device Installed 29
Figure 32: Device Wizard –Device Details 29
Figure 33: Device Wizard – Automatic IP Address Detection 30
Figure 34: Device Wizard – Searching for an IP Address 30
Figure 35: Device Wizard – Device IP Address Detected 31
Figure 36: Device Wizard –The Device Details (following Automatic Scan) 31
Figure 37: Setting the Overlays – Right-Clicking the All Overlays folder 32
Figure 38: Setting the Overlays – the Overlay Tab 33
Figure 39: Setting the Overlays – Create a New Folder 33
Figure 40: Setting the Overlays – New Folder Added 34
Figure 41: Setting the Overlays – the Overlay Tab 34
Figure 42: Setting the Overlays – the Add New Overlay Window 35
Figure 43: Setting the Overlays – Add a New Name and Description 35
Figure 44: Setting the Overlays – The Overlay Added to the Overlay List 36
Figure 45: Setting the Overlays – Template Details 36
Figure 46: Setting the Overlays – Bind Overlay to Machine 37
Figure 47: Setting the Overlays – the Overlay Settings 38
Figure 48: Setting the Overlays – Building Overlay Message 38
Figure 49: Setting the Overlays – Rendering the Overlay 39
Figure 50: Setting the Overlays – View of the Overlay 39
Figure 51: Adding a New/External Template – Launching the Template Wizard 40
Figure 52: Adding a New/External Template – Template Wizard 40
Figure 53: Adding a New/External Template – Available File Operations 41
Figure 54: Adding a New/External Template – Available Folder Operations 41
Figure 55: Adding a New/External Template – Ready-to-Use Template – External Source 42
Figure 56: Adding a New/External Template – Selecting the Folder 42
Figure 57: Adding a New/External Template – Selecting the Template 43
Figure 58: Adding a New/External Template – Available Operations 43
Figure 59: Adding a New/External Template – New Template Added 44
Figure 60: Creating a New Overlay 44
Figure 61: Template Wizard – Setting the Resolution 45
Figure 62: Template Wizard – Adding and Editing Window 45
Figure 63: Template Wizard – Editing the PNG graphic 47
Figure 64: Template Wizard – Resizing Options 48
Figure 65: Template Wizard – Adding Graphics 48
Figure 66: Template Wizard – Create Playback Program 49
Figure 67: Template Wizard – Add Template Description and see Preview 50
Figure 68: New Template Added 51
Figure 69: Setting the Movement and Transparency – the Program Editor 52
Figure 70: Scheduling Tab 57
Figure 71: Scheduling – Adding an Event 58
Figure 72: Scheduling – Adding Overlays to the Event 59

VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Contents iii
Figure 73: Scheduling – Firing an Event 60
Figure 74: Scheduling – Enable Scheduling 61
Figure 75: Setting the IP Address 66
Figure 76: Setting the High Parts of the IP Address 69
Figure 77: DHCP Mode DIP-Switch Setup 70
Figure 78: Local Area Connection Properties Window 72
Figure 79: Internet Protocol Version 4 Properties Window 72
Figure 80: Internet Protocol Version 6 Properties Window 73
Figure 81: Internet Protocol Properties Window 74

VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – 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 14 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 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 Video Products; GROUP 12: Digital Signage; GROUP 13: Audio; and
GROUP 14: Collaboration.
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 Video Content
Overlay Solution. This product, which incorporates HDMI™ technology, is ideal for:
•Providing visitor information, messages, promotional ads, and emergency
announcements overlaid on your current display network
•Hotel lobbies, lounges, guest rooms and conference rooms
•Sports bars, nightclubs, special venues
•Restaurants, cafes, diners

2 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - 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
Go to www.kramerav.com/downloads/VCOs 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 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 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.

VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Getting Started3
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 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Overview
3 Overview
Kramer VCO solutions let users display targeted messages across any number of
displays in showrooms, bars, lobbies, or conference rooms. VCO-1, VCO-8, and
VCO-16 are specialized distribution amplifiers that can distribute independent
content layers to 1, 5, 8, or 16 and optionally to any number of displays over
standard HDMI in full HD resolution (1080p60 or 1920x1200).
Simply connect the Kramer VCO to each display with a single HDMI cable, choose
any standard graphics file to be overlaid (such as a reminder that the bar will close
at 11:00pm), and that’s all. The VCO solution also enables scheduling specific
messages to be overlaid on specific displays at any chosen time and provides a set
of overlay templates for initial use.
With centralized control, Kramer VCO solutions let users manage individual video
content overlays for each connected display from anywhere in the world.
With Kramer VCO, you get:
•Comprehensive Digital Overlay Solution:
Complete, project-tailored solution for all your display needs
Support for an unlimited number of overlays and displays
Individual or multi-channel control and centralized operation and
management
Precise scheduling of each individual overlay per display
Static or animated dynamic color image overlays in full HD
Multiple overlay templates for multiple applications
Comprehensive error reporting for connected displays and overlays
•Flexible Integration and Usability:
Use with any customer management system
Use your existing display network infrastructure
Supports any-sized content overlays with full transparency control

VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Overview 5
Built-in looping output for daisy chaining any number of devices (VCO-8
and VCO-16 only)
•Cost Effective. User-Friendly Operation and Management:
Easy setup with a non-technical, user-friendly and feature-rich interface
Automatically displays engaging static or animated messages and push
notification campaigns, full-HD resolution to multiple displays in multiple
zones over live video from cameras, satellite receivers, PCs, or media
players — in a single click
Simple, cost-effective operation and management — from a single
display in a bar to hundreds of displays in a hotel
Problem-free installation, instant error reporting for each display and an
international warranty with localized support
VCO-8 and VCO-16 are housed in a 19” 1U rack mountable enclosure with rack
“ears”. They use a 100-240 VAC universal switching power supply.
VCO-1 is housed in a compact TOOLS size. Three units can be rack-mounted side
by side in a 1U rack space with an optional RK-3T rack adapter tool.

6 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Overview
3.1 Defining the Video Content Overlay Solution
This section defines the VCO-1, VCO-8 and VCO-16.
Figure 1: VCO-1 Front and Rear Panels
#
Feature
Function
1
IP ADDRESS DIP-
Switches
For setting the last number in the machine LAN IPv4 address (see
Section 8.1.1)
2 ON LED Lights when an input signal is active; flashes slowly when no input
signal is detected
3 ETHERNET Connector
Connect to the PC or other serial controller through computer
networking
4
HDMI IN Connector
Connect to the source
5
Micro USB Port
Used to import graphic images
6
TEST Button
Press for 5 seconds to reset the IP address to its default value.
Press briefly to enter the test pattern mode. The input signal is
replaced with a test pattern at 1080p. Press briefly again to cycle
between available test patterns or return to the input signal.
Test pattern mode is useful for initial setup of the system
7
HDMI OUT Connector
Connect to the display
8
5V DC
+5V DC connector for powering the unit

VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Overview 7
Figure 2: VCO-8 and VCO-16 Front Panels
#
Feature
Function
1
INPUT LED
Lights when an input signal is active; flashes slowly when no input signal is detected
2
LOOP LED
Lights on the looped device when a looped signal is in use
3
OUTPUT STATUS LEDS
Lights when an output signal is active
4
USB CONNECTOR
Used to import graphic images

Figure 3: VCO-8 and VCO-16 Rear Panels
# Feature Function
1
INPUT HDMI Connector
Connect to the source
2
LOOP HDMI Connector
Connect to a machine to daisy chain additional displays
3
OUT HDMI Connector
Connect to the displays from 1 to 8 (VCO-8); from 1 to 16 (VCO-16)
4
SETUP DIP-Switches
For setting the Last number in the machine LAN IPv4 address (see Section 8.1.1)
5 RESET Button Press for 5 seconds to reset the IP address to its default value.
Press briefly to enter the test pattern mode. The input signal is replaced with a test pattern at 1080p. Press
briefly again to cycle between available test patterns or return to the input signal.
Test pattern mode is useful for initial setup of the system
6
ETHERNET Connector
Connects to the PC or other serial controller through computer networking
7
Power Connector with Fuse
AC connector, enabling power supply to the unit
8 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Overview

VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Installing the VCO-8 and VCO-16 in a Rack 9
4 Installing the VCO-8 and VCO-16 in a Rack
This section provides instructions for rack mounting the unit.

10 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16
5 Connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16
Always switch off the power to each device before connecting it to your
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16.
After connecting your VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16, connect its power and
then switch on the power to each device.
You do not have to connect all the outputs, connect only those that
are required.
5.1 Connecting the VCO-8 / VCO-16
To connect the VCO-8 / VCO-16, as illustrated in the example in Figure 4:
1. Connect an HDMI source (for example, a media player) to the HDMI INPUT
connector.
Alternatively, you can connect the DVI connector on the DVD player to the
HDMI connector on the VCO-8 / VCO-16 via a DVI-HDMI adapter
2. If required, connect a looped HDMI acceptor (for example, from the HDMI
LOOP connector to the INPUT of another VCO device), see Section 6.
3. Connect the HDMI OUT connectors to HDMI acceptors (for example, LCD
displays): 1 to 8 for VCO-8, 1 to 16 for VCO-16.
4. Connect the power cord (not shown in Figure 4).
5. Connect the ETHERNET port, see Section 8.2.

VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 11
Figure 4: Connecting the VCO-8 / VCO-16

12 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16
5.2 Connecting the VCO-1
To connect the VCO-1 as illustrated in the example in Figure 5:
1. Connect an HDMI source (for example, a media player) to the HDMI IN
connector.
Alternatively, you can connect the DVI connector on the DVD player to the
HDMI connector on the VCO-1 via a DVI-HDMI adapter.
2. Connect the HDMI OUT connector to an HDMI acceptor (for example, an
LCD display).
3. Connect the 5V DC power adapter to the power socket and connect the
adapter to the mains electricity (not shown in Figure 5).
4. Connect the ETHERNET port, see Section 8.2.
Figure 5: Connecting the VCO-1

VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Looping the VCO-8 and VCO-16 13
6 Looping the VCO-8 and VCO-16
In the following example, two VCO-16 devices are connected via the LOOP
connector to produce a 32 port video overlay. One video input is distributed to 32
outputs with individual content overlay set to each of the 32 outputs.
To connect two looped VCO-16 units with 32 outputs, as shown in the example in
Figure 6, do the following:
1. On the first VCO-16 unit, connect:
A video source to the HDMI INPUT connector (for example, a Blu-ray
player)
The OUT HDMI connectors to acceptors (for example, displays)
2. Connect the LOOP HDMI connector of the first unit to the INPUT HDMI
Connector of the second unit.
3. On the second VCO-16 unit, connect the OUT HDMI connectors to
acceptors (for example, LCD displays)
In the Kramer VCO Setup App, each device in the daisy chain has a
separate IP address and each of the 32 outputs is given a unique name
and can be set with its own specific overlay.
In the same way you can loop an almost unlimited number of devices if HDCP is
not in use and up to five devices when HDCP is in use.
When an HDCP source, such as a Blu-ray player or a SAT receiver, is
used the number of looped devices may be lower.

14 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Looping the VCO-8 and VCO-16
Figure 6: A Set of 2 Looped VCO-16 Units