Kramer VS-8FDxl User manual

P/N: 2900-300545 Rev 1 www.KramerAV.com
USER MANUAL
MODEL:
VS-8FDxl
Programmable 8 Port SDI Router

VS-8FDxl - Contents
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Contents
Introduction 1
Getting Started 1
Overview 2
Typical Applications 3
Controlling your VS-8FDxl 3
Defining the VS-8FDxl Programmable 8 Port SDI Router 4
Installing in a Rack 6
Connecting the VS-8FDxl 7
Connecting to VS-8FDxl via RS-232 8
Connecting VS-8FDxl via the ETHERNET Port 8
Operating VS-8FDxl via Front Panel Buttons 11
Routing the Signals 11
Saving and Loading a Setup 12
Firmware Upgrade 14
Using the Embedded Web Pages 15
Switching and Setting the Ports 17
Setting the Genlock 20
Changing Device Settings and Saving/Loading Presets 21
Activating Security 23
Performing Firmware Upgrade 26
Locking the Front Panel Buttons 26
Viewing the About Page 27
Technical Specifications 28
Default Communication Parameters 29
Protocol 3000 30
Understanding Protocol 3000 31
Kramer Protocol 3000 Syntax 32
Extended Protocol 3000 33
Other Rules 35
Protocol 3000 Commands 36

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
VS-8FDxl - Introduction
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 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.
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/VS-8FDxl to check for up-to-date user manuals,
application programs, and to check if firmware upgrades are available (where appropriate).
Achieving 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 VS-8FDxl 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.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
VS-8FDxl - Introduction
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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.
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.
Overview
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer VS-8FDxl.
VS-8FDxl is a high-quality 8-port matrix switcher for SDI signals for up to 3G HD−SDI. Each
SDI port can be defined as either an input or an output.
The VS-8FDxl provides exceptional quality, advanced and user-friendly operation, and flexible
control.
Exceptional Quality
Max. Data Rate –3Gbps.
HDTV Compatibility.
Multi–Standard Operation –SDI (SMPTE 259M/344M), HD-SDI (SMPTE 292M), 3G
HD-SDI (SMPTE 424M).
Selectable Single (for routing a signal of up to 1080p) or Dual mode (for routing a signal of
up to 4K30).
Kramer Equalization & re-Klocking™ Technology – Rebuilds the digital signal to travel
longer distances.
Cable Equalization –Up to 350m for SD signals, 140m for 1.5GHz HD signals and 120m
for 3GHz 3G signals.
Clean Switching –When the sources are genlocked to the selected genlock input with a
difference of no more than two lines of video.
Advanced and User-friendly Operation
Supports ANC Data –Embedded audio, teletext, time code, etc.

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VS-8FDxl - Introduction
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Memory Locations –Stores 8 multiple switches as presets to be recalled and executed
when needed.
Versatile Genlocking –Using an analog signal.
Resolution information buttons
Easy front-panel operation and routing.
User friendly embedded web pages
Lock button to prevent tampering.
Kramer protocol 3000 support.
Firmware upgrade via Ethernet or the RS-232 port.
Control Options –RS-232 serial commands transmitted by a PC, touch screen system or
other serial controller, Ethernet port via LAN.
LCD 16x2 display, indicating the switching status and other functions.
Includes non-volatile memory that retains the last settings, after switching the power off
and then on again.
Flexible Connectivity
Interchangeable input to output switching –from 1:7 distribution amplifier (DA) to 7x1
switcher in the 1080p mode and 1:3 (DA) to 3x1 switcher in the 4K/30 mode.
Housed in a 19” 1U rack mountable enclosure, with rack ears included, and fed from a
100-240 VAC universal switching power supply.
Typical Applications
The VS-8FDxl is ideal for the following typical applications:
Rental and staging.
Controlling your VS-8FDxl
Control your VS-8FDxl directly via the front panel push buttons, or:
By RS-232 serial commands transmitted by a touch screen system, PC, or other serial
controller.
Via the Ethernet using built-in user-friendly web pages.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
VS-8FDxl - Defining the VS-8FDxl Programmable 8 Port SDI Router
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Defining the VS-8FDxl
Programmable 8 Port SDI Router
This section defines the VS-8FDxl.
Figure 1: VS-8FDxl Programmable 8 Port SDI Router Front Panel
#
Feature
Function
POWER LED
Illuminated switch for turning the unit ON or OFF.
PORT Buttons
Press an output port (lights green) and then an input port (lights blue) to
route an input to an output.
CLEAR Button
Press to clear a selection.
TAKE Button
Press to enter TAKE mode.
In Take mode, press several sets of output-input ports and then press
TAKE to activate all the selected routings at the same time. (When TAKE
mode is OFF, the output-input pair is switched immediately).
1080p Button
Press to light the front-panel PORT button LEDs that are set to Single mode
(1080p) and view them on the LCD display panel.
4K/30 Button
Press to light the front-panel PORT button LEDs that are set to Dual mode
(4K@30) and view them on the LCD display panel.
LOAD Button
To load a preset configuration:
Press LOAD, press the appropriate PORT preset button to select a preset
configuration, and then press TAKE to load that preset.
SAVE Button
To save the current port configuration to a PORT preset button:
Press STORE, press the port button to which you want to save the
configuration, and then press TAKE to save the setup to that port.
INFO Button
Press to display the firmware version and IP address.
Press INFO and then a specific PORT button to display the information of
that selected port.
LCD Display Panel
Displays the current routing status, device information and so on.
LOCK Button
Press for about 3 seconds to lock the front panel. When locked (button is
lit), press again for about 3 seconds to release the front panel lock.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
VS-8FDxl - Defining the VS-8FDxl Programmable 8 Port SDI Router
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Figure 2: VS-8FDxl Programmable 8 Port SDI Router Rear Panel
#
Feature
Function
GENLOCK BNC Connector
Connect to the GENLOCK source.
LOOP BNC Connector
Connect to the GENLOCK connector of the next unit in the daisy chain.
PORTS BNC Connectors
Connect to sources and acceptors (8 in total, or 4 in total for dual mode).
RS-232 (G,Rx,Tx) Terminal
Block Connector
Connect to a PC or remote controller.
ETHERNET RJ-45
Connector
Connect to a PC via LAN and also use for firmware upgrade.
RESET Button
Press briefly to restart the system.
Press for 10 seconds to reset IP settings to factory default values.
The device powers up and loads the factory default values:
IP address: 192.168.1.39; Mask: 255.255.255.0; Gateway 192.168.1.1.
Power Socket
AC connector enabling power supply to the VS-8FDxl.
Power Switch
Illuminated switch for turning the unit ON and OFF.

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VS-8FDxl - Installing in a Rack
6
Installing in a Rack
This section provides instructions for rack mounting the VS-8FDxl. Before installing in a rack,
verify that the environment is within the recommended range:
Operation temperature –0to 40C (32 to 104F).
Storage temperature –-40to +70C (-40 to +158F).
Humidity –10% to 90%, RHL non-condensing.
When installing on a 19" rack, avoid hazards by taking care that:
It is located within recommended environmental conditions. Operating ambient
temperature of a closed or multi-unit rack assembly may exceed ambient room
temperature.
Once rack mounted, there is enough air still flow around the VS-8FDxl.
The VS-8FDxl is placed upright in the correct horizontal position.
You do not overload the circuit(s). When connecting the VS-8FDxl to the supply
circuit, overloading the circuits may have a detrimental effect on overcurrent
protection and supply wiring. Refer to the appropriate nameplate ratings for
information. For example, for fuse replacement, see the value printed on the product
label.
The VS-8FDxl is earthed (grounded) and connected only to an electricity socket with
grounding. Pay particular attention when electricity is supplied indirectly (for example,
when the power cord is not plugged directly into the wall socket but to an extension
cable or power strip). Use only the supplied power cord.
To rack-mount the VS-8FDxl:
1. Attach both ear brackets to the VS-8FDxl:
Remove the screws from each side of the
VS-8FDxl (3 on each side), and replace them
through the ear brackets.
2. Place the ears of the VS-8FDxl against the rack rails
and insert the appropriate screws (not provided)
through each of the four holes in the rack ears.
Some models, may feature built-in rack ears:
Detachable rack ears can be removed for desktop use.
Always mount the VS-8FDxl in the rack before connecting any cables or power.
If you are using a Kramer rack adapter kit (for a machine that is not 19"), see the
Rack Adapters user manual for installation instructions available from our Web site
www.kramerav.com/downloads/VS-8FDxl.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
VS-8FDxl - Connecting the VS-8FDxl
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Connecting the VS-8FDxl
Always switch off the power to each device before connecting it to your VS-8FDxl. After
connecting your VS-8FDxl, connect its power and then switch on the power to each device.
Although this connecting example shows only several inputs and outputs that are connected,
you can connect all the inputs and outputs simultaneously.
To connect the VS-8FDxl as illustrated in the example in Figure 3:
This connection example describes the VS-8FDxl default setup: a 4x4 switcher in the 1080p
mode. Other setups can include a range of 7:1 to 1x7 switching setups and in the 4K/30
mode, a range of 3:1 to 1x3 switching setups.
1. Connect up to four SDI video sources to the PORT BNC connectors (1 to 4) . For
example, connect:
An SDI camera to PORT 1.
A Kramer FC-113 HDMI to SD/HD-SDI Converter to PORT 4.
2. Connect up to four SDI video PORT BNC connectors (5 to 8) to up to four acceptors.
For example, connect:
PORT 5 to an SDI display.
PORT 8 to an SDI display.
3. Connect the power cord .
We recommend that you use only the power cord that is supplied with this machine.
4. If required, connect:
The ETHERNET port .
The RS-232 3-pin terminal block connector to a control device.
Figure 3: Connecting to the VS-8FDxl Rear Panel

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VS-8FDxl - Connecting the VS-8FDxl
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Connecting to VS-8FDxl via RS-232
You can connect to the VS-8FDxl via an RS-232 connection using, for example, a PC.
To connect to the VS-8FDxl via RS-232:
Connect the RS-232 rear panel port on the VS-8FDxl unit via a
9-wire straight cable (only pin 2 to pin 2, pin 3 to pin 3, and pin 5 to pin 5 need to be
connected) to the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port on your PC.
Connecting VS-8FDxl via the ETHERNET Port
You can connect to the VS-8FDxl via Ethernet using either of the following methods:
Directly to the PC using a crossover cable (see Connecting the Ethernet Port Directly to a
PC on page 8).
Via a network hub, switch, or router, using a straight-through cable (see Connecting the
Ethernet Port via a Network Hub or Switch on page 10).
If you want to connect via a router and your IT system is based on IPv6, speak to your IT
department for specific installation instructions
Connecting the Ethernet Port Directly to a PC
You can connect the Ethernet port of the VS-8FDxl directly to the Ethernet port on your PC
using a crossover cable with RJ-45 connectors.
This type of connection is recommended for identifying the VS-8FDxl
with the factory configured default IP address.
After connecting the VS-8FDxl to the Ethernet port, configure your PC as follows:
1. Click Start > Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click Change Adapter Settings.
3. Highlight the network adapter you want to use to connect to the device and click Change
settings of this connection.
The Local Area Connection Properties window for the selected network adapter appears
as shown in Figure 4.

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VS-8FDxl - Connecting the VS-8FDxl
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Figure 4: Local Area Connection Properties Window
4. Highlight either Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) or Internet Protocol Version 4
(TCP/IPv4) depending on the requirements of your IT system.
5. Click Properties.
The Internet Protocol Properties window relevant to your IT system appears as shown in
Figure 5 or Figure 6.
Figure 5: Internet Protocol Version 4 Properties Window

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VS-8FDxl - Connecting the VS-8FDxl
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Figure 6: Internet Protocol Version 6 Properties Window
6. Select Use the following IP Address for static IP addressing and fill in the details as
shown in Figure 7.
For TCP/IPv4 you can use any IP address in the range 192.168.1.1 to 192.168.1.255
(excluding 192.168.1.39) that is provided by your IT department.
Figure 7: Internet Protocol Properties Window
7. Click OK.
8. Click Close.
Connecting the Ethernet Port via a Network Hub or Switch
You can connect the Ethernet port of the VS-8FDxl to the Ethernet port on a network hub or
using a straight-through cable with RJ-45 connectors.
Control Configuration via the Ethernet Port
To control several units via Ethernet, connect the Master unit (Device 1) via the Ethernet port
to the Ethernet port of your PC. Use your PC provide initial configuration of the settings (see
Connecting VS-8FDxl via the ETHERNET Port on page 8).

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VS-8FDxl - Operating VS-8FDxl via Front Panel Buttons
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Operating VS-8FDxl via Front
Panel Buttons
Press the power switch to power the device. During the initialization process, the LCD
display briefly displays the current version and IP address (accessed also by pressing INFO
during normal operation), and then the PORT buttons illuminate (green for outputs and
blue for inputs).
Following initialization, the front panel buttons and display enter normal operation and the
display shows the video IN-OUT status:
IN
1
4
5
OUT
7
28
36
Figure 8: LCD Display –Normal Operation
In this example, ports 1, 4 and 5 are configured as inputs (port buttons illuminated blue) and
ports 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8 are configured as outputs (port buttons illuminated green). Port 1 is
routed to port 7, port 4 is routed to ports 2 and 8, and port 5 is routed to ports 3 and 6.
You can configure ports to be set as inputs or outputs only via the embedded web pages, see
Setting Port Configuration on page 17.
The VS-8FDxl front panel buttons enable performing the following functions:
Routing the Signals on page 11.
Saving and Loading a Setup on page 12.
Routing the Signals
Viewing the Operation Mode on page 11.
Routing a Signal on page 12.
Viewing the Operation Mode
The operation mode can be set only via the web pages, see Setting Port Configuration on
page 17. The 1080p and 4K/30 buttons enable you to view the operation mode for
each port.
To view ports in Single operation mode:
Press 1080P:
The 1080P button illuminates.
The LCD display shows the current switching status of the Single mode ports.
The Single mode port buttons illuminate green (for outputs) and blue (for inputs) for a few
seconds.

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VS-8FDxl - Operating VS-8FDxl via Front Panel Buttons
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To view ports in Dual operation mode:
Press 4K/30:
The 4K/30 button illuminates.
The LCD display shows the current switching status of the Dual mode ports.
The Dual mode port buttons illuminate green (for outputs) and blue (for inputs) for a few
seconds.
Routing a Signal
The input/output port configuration is identified by the color of the PORT buttons (blue for
input and green for output).
To route a signal:
1. Press an output PORT button (green).
The selected button flashes.
2. Press an input PORT button (blue).
The selected input is routed to the selected output which no longer flashes, and the
current status can be viewed on the display.
To route several signals together:
1. Press TAKE .
The TAKE button flashes.
2. Press several output-input PORT buttons.
All the selected buttons flash.
3. Press TAKE to carry out the routing operation.
The selected inputs are routed to the selected outputs which no longer flash, and the
current status can be viewed on the display.
All operations should be carried out within 10 seconds.
Press CLEAR to cancel the operation.
Saving and Loading a Setup
VS-8FDxl can store up to 8 setups. Each setup includes the port direction settings, the
operation mode (1080p or 4K/30), the genlock mode and the timing settings.
To save the current setup:
1. Press SAVE .
The SAVE button flashes and the PORT buttons are dimmed.
2. Press a PORT button (from 1 to 8).
The selected PORT button flashes red.
3. Press TAKE .
The current preset is saved and the buttons no longer flash.

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VS-8FDxl - Operating VS-8FDxl via Front Panel Buttons
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To load a setup:
1. Press LOAD .
The LOAD button flashes and the PORT buttons are dimmed.
2. Press the desired PORT button (from 1 to 8).
A preview of the preset configuration is displayed on the LCD.
Press any number of presets (by pressing a port button) to preview their configuration
before pressing TAKE to load the desired configuration.
3. Press TAKE to load the desired configuration.
The selected preset is loaded and the buttons no longer flash.
Pressing CLEAR or LOAD/SAVE before pressing TAKE cancels the load/save process.
You need to press TAKE within 10 seconds, to apply settings.

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VS-8FDxl - Firmware Upgrade
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Firmware Upgrade
You can upgrade the VS-8FDxl via:
Web pages.
By RS-232/TCP/UDP using Kramer K-UPLOAD tool.
The latest firmware version and the latest version of K-UPLOAD and installation instructions
can be downloaded from the Kramer Web site at
www.kramerav.com/downloads/VS-8FDxl.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
VS-8FDxl - Using the Embedded Web Pages
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Using the Embedded Web Pages
The Web pages let you control the VS-8FDxl via the Ethernet. The web pages include all the
OSD items and more, and are accessed using a web browser and an Ethernet connection.
Before attempting to connect:
Perform the procedures described in Connecting VS-8FDxl via the ETHERNET Port
on page 8.
Ensure that your browser is supported.
The following operating systems and Web browsers are supported:
OS
Version
Browser
Version
Windows
7
IE
11
9
10
Firefox
48.0.2
45.0.1
54
Chrome
31.0.1650.59
31.0.1650.60
59.0.3071.109
Safari
5.1.7(7534.57.2)
8
IE
11
Firefox
47.0.1
Chrome
51.0.2704.106
Mac
10.11
Safari
9.0(11601.1.56)
iOS
10.3.2
Safari
N/A
Android
N/A
N/A
N/A
The VS-8FDxl web pages enable performing the following:
Switching and Setting the Ports on page 17.
Setting the Genlock on page 20.
Changing Device Settings and Saving/Loading Presets on page 21.
Activating Security on page 23.
Performing Firmware Upgrade on page 26.
Locking the Front Panel Buttons on page 26.
Viewing the About Page on page 27.

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VS-8FDxl - Using the Embedded Web Pages
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To browse the VS-8FDxl Web pages:
1. Open your Internet browser.
2. Type the IP address of the device in the address bar of your browser. For example, the
default IP address:
The Authentication window appears (if set, security is enabled):
Figure 9: Using the Embedded Web Pages –the Authentication Window
3. Enter the User Name and Password and click OK (Admin and Admin by default).
The Video Switching page appears:
Figure 10: Video Switching Page with Navigation List on Left
4. Click the desired Web page or click the arrow to hide the navigation list.

Kramer Electronics Ltd.
VS-8FDxl - Using the Embedded Web Pages
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Switching and Setting the Ports
The Video Switching Web page enables performing the following functions:
Setting Port Configuration on page 17.
Switching an Input to an Output on page 19.
Setting Port Configuration
Port configuration includes:
Setting a port as an input or output on page 17.
Setting ports to Single or Dual Operation Mode on page 17.
Other Port Settings on page 18.
Setting a port as an input or output
Each SDI port can be set to function as an input or an output.
To set the port as an input or output:
In the Output row, click a button (from 1 to 8).
For example, select button 4 to be an output:
Button 4 changes color from white to green on the Output row and changes from blue to
white on the Input column.
In the Input column, click a button (from 1 to 8).
For example, select button 2 to be an input:
Button 2 changes color from white to blue on the Input column and changes from green to
white on the Output row.
Setting ports to Single or Dual Operation Mode
The Single mode uses one SDI port to route an HDMI signal up to 1080p.
The Dual mode uses two SDI ports to route an HDMI signal up to 4K30. Each SDI-port pair
transmits one signal as if it were a single port.
The Dual (4K30) mode uses the following SDI pairs to route the signal (input or output): ports 1
and 2, ports 3 and 4, ports 5 and 6, and ports 7 and 8. All the port actions (for example, routing
or muting affect the pair simultaneously).
To route signals in the Dual mode, you need at least one SDI pair on the input and one SDI
pair on the output that are configured to the Dual mode. For example, if ports 1 and 2 are set
as a dual input and ports 5 and 6 are set as dual outputs, when routing 1 to 5, VS-8FDxl also
routes 2 to 6 as part of the dual pair. When muting output 5, output 6 will be automatically
muted too.

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VS-8FDxl - Using the Embedded Web Pages
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To set a port to Single or dual operation mode:
Click Dnext to an input or an output button to enter the dual mode.
The adjacent port is also set to dual mode.
For example clicking Don Input 1 immediately turns Input 2 to Dual mode, see Figure 13.
Figure 11: Video Switching Page –The Switching Matrix
Switching configurations can be set with a click of a button. For example, ports 1 to 7 are set
as inputs and port 8 is set as an output:
Figure 12: Video Switching Page –7x1 Switcher Configuration Example
Other Port Settings
To mute an output:
Click Mnext to an output button to mute the output.
Mturns green.
Click ext next to an input button to extend the input reach.
ext turns green