Kramer VP-81K User manual

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
USER MANUAL



Model:
VP-81K
8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher

Contents
i
Contents
1 Introduction 1
2 Getting Started 1
2.1 Quick Start 1
3 Overview 3
3.1 Terminology Used in this User Manual 4
3.2 DDC Support 4
3.3 Defining EDID 4
4 Your VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher 4
4.1 Using the IR Transmitter for the VP-81K 7
5 Installing in a Rack 8
6 Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher 9
6.1 Connecting the Balanced/Unbalanced Stereo Audio Output 11
6.2 Controlling via RS-232 12
6.3 Controlling via RS-485 13
6.4 Controlling the VP-81K via the Ethernet Port 14
6.4.1 Connecting the ETHERNET Port Directly to a PC (Crossover Cable) 14
6.4.2 Connecting via a Straight-Through Cable 15
6.4.3 Configuring the Ethernet Port 15
6.4.4 Controlling via the Embedded Web Pages 17
6.5 Dipswitch Settings 19
6.5.1 Setting the MACHINE # 19
6.6 Cascading Machines 20
7 Operating Your VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher 21
7.1 Using the Front Panel INPUT SELECTOR Buttons 21
7.2 Using the Regular or Automatic Switching Mode 21
7.2.1 The Regular Switching Mode 21
7.2.2 The Automatic Switching Mode 22
7.3 Using the Audio-Follow-Video / Breakaway Modes 22
7.3.1 Operating in Breakaway Mode 22
7.3.2 Toggling between Video and Audio Control in Breakaway Mode 22
7.3.3 Operating in the Audio-Follow-Video Mode 23
7.4 Setting the Audio Gain 23
8 Flash Memory Upgrade 23
8.1 Downloading from the Internet 23
8.2 Connecting the PC to the RS-232 Port 23
8.3 Upgrading Firmware 24
9 Technical Specifications 26
10 Table of ASCII Codes for Serial Communication (Protocol 3000) 27
11 Table of Hex Codes for Serial Communication (Protocol 2000) 27

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Contents
ii
12 Kramer Protocol 28
12.1 Switching Protocols 28
12.1.1 Switching Protocols via the Front Panel Buttons 28
12.1.2 Switching Protocols via Protocol Commands 28
12.2 Kramer Protocol 3000 29
12.2.1 Protocol 3000 Syntax 29
12.2.2 Command Parts Details 30
12.3 Kramer Protocol 2000 36
Figures
Figure 1: VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher 5
Figure 2: Connecting the VP-81K 10
Figure 3: Connecting the Balanced Stereo Audio Output 11
Figure 4: Connecting an Unbalanced Output 11
Figure 5: Connecting a PC without using a Null-modem Adapter 12
Figure 6: Controlling via RS-485 (for example, using an RC-3000) 13
Figure 7: Local Area Connection Properties Window 14
Figure 8: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Window 15
Figure 9: Connect Screen 15
Figure 10: Device Properties Screen 16
Figure 11: HOME Embedded Web Page 17
Figure 12: CONFIGURATIONS Embedded Web Page 18
Figure 13: SETUP Dipswitches 19
Figure 14: Control Configuration via RS-232 and RS-485 20
Figure 15: FlashLoader Window 24
Figure 16: Flash Upgrade Process 25
Tables
Table 1: Terminology Used in this User Manual 4
Table 2: Front Panel VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher Features 6
Table 3: Dipswitch Definitions 19
Table 4: MACHINE # Dipswitch Settings 19
Table 5: Button Illumination Definitions 21
Table 6: Technical Specifications of the VP-81K 26
Table 7: VP-81K Codes for Protocol 3000 27
Table 8: VP-81K Hex Codes for Protocol 2000 27
Table 9: Instruction Codes for Protocol 3000 31
Table 10: Protocol Definitions 36
Table 11: Instruction Codes for Protocol 2000 37

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
1
that are clearly defined by
function.
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio
Switcher.
The VP-81K is ideal for:
Display systems requiring simple input selection
Remote monitoring of computer activity in schools and businesses
Rental/staging applications
Multimedia and presentation source selection
The package includes the following items:
VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Matrix Switcher
Null-modem adapter, a power cord and an infrared remote control
transmitter (including the required battery and a separate user manual
2
)
This user manual
2
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
3
2.1 Quick Start
This quick start chart summarizes the basic setup and operation steps.
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 Download up-to-date Kramer user manuals from the Internet at this URL: http://www.kramerelectronics.com
3 The complete list of Kramer cables is on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Getting Started
2

Overview
3
3 Overview
The VP-81K routes any input to both outputs, using 15-pin HD female
connectors for the computer graphics video signals, a mini plug connector for
the unbalanced stereo audio output 1 signal, and a detachable terminal block
connector for the balanced stereo audio output 2 signal.
In particular, the VP-81K:
Has a very high video bandwidth, ensuring transparent UXGA
performance
Features audio-follow-video (AFV) in which all operations relate to both
the video and the audio channels, or audio breakaway option, in which
video and audio channels switch independently
Features volume control
Supports DDC (Display Data Channel) communication between the
selected input and output 1 high-density 15-pin HD connectors on pins 12
and 15
Includes the Kramer innovative integrated sync processing; KR-ISP™
technology, which lets you achieve a sharp, stable image even when the
sync level is too low, by restoring the sync signal waveform
Can cascade up to eight units with control from a PC or serial controller
Operates in an automatic switching mode (as well as the regular switching
mode), automatically switching to the lowest number input when that input
is connected and active
1
Control the VP-81K 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
ETHERNET
The Kramer RC-IR2 Infrared Remote Control Transmitter or infrared
remote extension cable transmitter (optional)
To achieve the best performance:
Connect only good quality connection cables, thus avoiding 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 and position your VP-81K away from
moisture, excessive sunlight and dust
1 For example, if INPUT 6 is currently selected and connected and then INPUT 4 receives an active signal, the VP-81K
automatically switches to INPUT 4

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
4
3.1 Terminology Used in this User Manual
Table 1 defines some terms that are used in this user manual:
Table 1: Terminology Used in this User Manual
Term Definition
802.3 The standard specification for ETHERNET that is maintained by the Institute of Electrical and
Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
Dynamic Host Configuration
Protocol (DHCP) Allows the network administrator to distribute IP addresses from a central point and automatically send a new IP address when an Ethernet point is plugged into a different
network location
Gateway A network position serving as an entry to another network. On the Internet, a node or
stopping point can be either a gateway node or a host (end-point) node.
IP Address A 32-binary digit number that identifies each sender or receiver (within a network via a
particular server or workstation) of data (HTML pages or e-mails) that is sent in packets
across the Internet. Every device connected to an IP network must have a unique IP
address. This address is used to reference the specific unit.
Local Area Network (LAN) Computers sharing a common communications line or wireless link, which often share a
server within a defined geographic area.
Media Access Control
(MAC) Address A computer's unique hardware number (or address) in a LAN or other network. On an Ethernet LAN, the (MAC) address is identical to the Ethernet address.
Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol
(TCP/IP)
The basic communication language or protocol of the Internet that breaks the message into
appropriately sized packets for the network, and can be used as a communications protocol
in an intranet or an extranet.
3.2 DDC Support
When establishing a VGA connection between a PC or laptop and a display
device, a set of parameters known as EDID is exchanged between them,
which is carried over the DDC channel. In some PC graphic cards and laptops,
this information exchange is essential for proper VGA OUT operation.
3.3 Defining EDID
The Extended Display Identification Data (EDID
1
) is a data-structure,
provided by a display, to describe its capabilities to a graphics card (that is
connected to the display’s source). The EDID enables the PC or laptop to
“know” what kind of monitor is connected to the output. The EDID includes
the manufacturer’s name, the product type, the timing data supported by the
display, the display size, luminance data and (for digital displays only) the
pixel mapping data.
4 Your VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
Figure 1 and Table 2 define the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher:
1 Defined by a standard published by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA)

Your VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
5
Figure 1: VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
6
Table 2: Front Panel VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher Features
# Feature Function
1 POWER Switch Illuminated switch supplying power to the unit
2 IR Receiver The red LED is illuminated when receiving signals from the
Kramer Infrared remote control transmitter
3 INPUT SELECTOR Buttons Select the input (from 1 to 8) to switch to the outputs
The button illuminates in red if it is selected and there is no
input signal
The button illuminates in green if it is not selected but there is
an input signal at that input
The button illuminates in violet if it is selected and there is an
input signal connected
4 AUDIO Button When illuminated
1
, actions relate to audio
5 VIDEO Button When illuminated
1
, actions relate to video
6 + Press to increase the audio output level of the selected input
2
7
AUDIO GAIN
Buttons - Press to decrease the audio output level of the selected input
2
8 INPUT 15-pin HD Connectors Connect to the UXGA sources (from 1 to 8)
9 OUTPUT 15-pin HD Connectors Connect to the UXGA acceptors (from 1 to 2)
10 AUDIO INPUT Mini Plug
Connectors
Connect to the unbalanced stereo audio sources (from 1 to 8)
11 OUT 1 Mini Plug Connector Connect to the unbalanced stereo audio acceptor
12 OUT 2 Terminal Block Connector Connect to the balanced stereo audio acceptor
13 PROG. Button Not used (for technical staff use only)
14 ETHERNET Connector Connects to the PC or other Serial Controller through computer
networking
15 FACTORY RESET Button Press to reset to factory default definitions
3
:
IP number 192.168.1.39
Mask – 255.255.255.0
Gateway – 192.168.1.1
The audio gain of all the inputs is reset to 0dB
16 SETUP Dipswitches Dipswitches for setup of the unit, see section 6.5
17 RS-485 Detachable Terminal Block
Port
Pin # 1 is for Ground connection, and Pins # 2 and # 3 are for
RS-485
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)
4
19 Power Connector with FUSE AC connector enabling power supply to the unit
20 RS-232 9-pin D-sub Port Connects to the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port of the next unit in the
daisy-chain
1 If the AUDIO and VIDEO buttons both illuminate, the unit operates in the audio-follow-video mode
2 While the AUDIO button illuminates
3 Turn the machine OFF, then turn the machine ON while pressing the FACTORY RESET button. The unit powers up and
loads its memory with the factory default definitions
4 Can be used instead of the front panel (built-in) IR receiver to remotely control the machine, see section 4.1

Your VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
7
4.1 Using the IR Transmitter for the VP-81K
You can use the RC-IR2 IR transmitter to control the machine via the built-in
IR receiver on the front panel or, instead, via an optional external IR receiver
1
.
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
2
.
Before using the external IR receiver, be sure to arrange for your Kramer
dealer to insert the internal IR connection cable
3
with 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 in a Rack
8
5 Installing in a Rack
This section describes what to do before installing in a rack and how to rack
mount.
Before Installing in a Rack How to Rack Mount
Before installing in a rack, be sure that the environment is
within the recommended range:
Operating temperature range +5º to +45º C (41º to 113º F)
Operating humidity range 10 to 90% RHL, non-condensing
Storage temperature range -20º to +70º C (-4º to 158º F)
Storage humidity range 5 to 95% RHL, non-condensing

CAUTION!!
When installing in a 19" rack, avoid hazards by taking
care that:
1. It is located within the recommended environmental
conditions, as the operating ambient temperature of a
closed or multi unit rack assembly may exceed the
room ambient temperature.
2. Once rack mounted, enough air will still flow around
the machine.
3. The machine is placed straight in the correct
horizontal position.
4. You do not overload the circuit(s). When connecting
the machine to the supply circuit, overloading the
circuits might 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.
5. The machine is earthed (grounded) in a reliable way
and is connected only to an electricity socket with
grounding. Pay particular attention to situations where
electricity is supplied indirectly (when the power cord
is not plugged directly into the socket in the wall), for
example, when using an extension cable or a power
strip, and that you use only the power cord that is
supplied with the machine.
To rack-mount a machine:
1. Attach both ear brackets to the
machine. To do so, remove the
screws from each side of the
machine (3 on each side), and
replace those screws through the
ear brackets.
2. Place the ears of the machine
against the rack rails, and insert the
proper screws (not provided)
through each of the four holes in the
rack ears.
Note that:
In some models, the front panel
may feature built-in rack ears
Detachable rack ears can be
removed for desktop use
Always mount the machine in the
rack before you attach any cables
or connect the machine to the
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
(you can download it at:
http://www.kramerelectronics.com)

Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
9
6 Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
To connect the VP-81K, as illustrated in the example in Figure 2, do the
following
1
:
1. Connect up to eight
2
UXGA computer graphics sources to the INPUT 15-pin
HD connectors (from 1 to 8).
2. Connect the unbalanced audio sources to up to eight INPUT mini plug
connectors
3
.
3. Connect
4
the 15-pin HD OUTPUT connectors (from 1 to 2) to up to two
UXGA acceptors (for example, a projector to OUTPUT 1 and a display to
OUTPUT 2).
4. Connect the OUT 1 unbalanced audio mini plug connector to an audio
acceptor
3
.
5. Connect the OUT 2 balanced audio terminal block connector (see section 6.1)
to an audio acceptor
3
.
6. Set the dipswitches (see section 6.5).
7. As an option you can connect a PC and/or controller to the:
RS-232 port (see section 6.2)
RS-485 port (see section 6.3)
The ETHERNET connector (see section 6.4)
8. Connect the power cord
3,5
.
1 Be sure that the power is switched OFF on each device before connecting it to your VP-81K. After connecting all the
devices to your VP-81K, switch on the power of the VP-81K, and then switch on the power of each device
2 You do not have to connect all the inputs
3 Not shown in Figure 2
4 You do not have to connect both outputs
5 We recommend that you use only the power cord that is supplied with this machine

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
10
Figure 2: Connecting the VP-81K

Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
11
6.1 Connecting the Balanced/Unbalanced Stereo Audio Output
This section illustrates how to wire:
A balanced output connection, see Figure 3
An unbalanced audio output, see Figure 4
Figure 3: Connecting the Balanced Stereo Audio Output
Figure 4: Connecting an Unbalanced Output

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
12
6.2 Controlling via RS-232
You can connect a PC (or other controller) to the VP-81K via the RS-232 port
for remote control, and for upgrading the firmware.
To connect a PC to a VP-81K unit, using the Null-modem adapter provided
with the machine (recommended):
Connect the RS-232 9-pin D-sub rear panel port on the VP-81K unit to the
Null-modem adapter and connect the Null-modem adapter with a 9-wire
flat cable to the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port on your PC
To connect a PC to a VP-81K unit, without using a Null-modem adapter:
Connect the RS-232 9-pin D-sub port on your PC to the RS-232 9-pin
D-sub rear panel port on the VP-81K unit, forming a cross-connection
1
, as
Figure 5 Illustrates



9-pin D-sub
(From PC)
9-pin D-sub
(To Switcher)
If a shielded cable is used, connect the shield to PIN 5



PIN 5 Connected to PIN 5 (Ground)
PIN 3 Connected to PIN 2
PIN 2 Connected to PIN 3
Figure 5: Connecting a PC without using a Null-modem Adapter
1 Also known as a Null-modem connection

Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
13
6.3 Controlling via RS-485
You can control a VP-Kunit via an RS-485 controller, for example, a PC
(equipped with an RS-485 interface) or a Master Programmable Remote
Control system such as the Kramer RC-3000.
To connect an RC-3000 to a VP-Kunit (see Figure 6):
1. Connect the RS-485 terminal block port on the RC-3000 to the RS-485 port
on the VP-Kunit, as follows:
Connect the “A” (+) PIN on the RS-485 rear panel port of the
RC-3000 to the “A” (+) PIN on the RS-485 rear panel port of the
VP-81K unit
Connect the “B” (-) PIN on the RS-485 rear panel port of the RC-3000
to the “B” (-) PIN on the RS-485 rear panel port of the VP-Kunit
If shielded twisted pair cable is used, the shield may be connected to
the “G” (Ground) PIN on one of the units (for example, on the
RC-3000)
2. Set the VP-Kunit as Machine # 2, according to Table 4 (that is, DIP 1 and
DIP 2 OFF, and DIP 3 ON), and set RS-485 Line Termination ON
KEYBOARD EXTENSION REMOTE CONTACT
RS-485 RS-232 IN RS-232 OUT 12 VDC 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 G4 6 8 103 5 7 9 11 12 14 16
OUT
13 15
IN

RS-485 PINOUT
G
B
A
_
+
Figure 6: Controlling via RS-485 (for example, using an RC-3000)

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
14
6.4 Controlling the VP-81K via the Ethernet Port
You can connect the VP-81K via the ETHERNET in the following ways:
For direct connection to the PC, use a crossover cable (see section 6.4.1)
For connection via a network hub or network router, use a straight-through
cable (see section 6.4.2)
6.4.1 Connecting the ETHERNET Port Directly to a PC (Crossover Cable)
You can connect the Ethernet port of the VP-81K to the Ethernet port on your
PC, via a crossover cable with RJ-45 connectors.
This type of connection is recommended for identifying the VP-81K
with the factory configured default IP address
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.
5. Select the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and click the Properties Button (see
Figure 7).
Figure 7: Local Area Connection Properties Window
6. Select Use the following IP address, and fill in the details as shown in
Figure 8.

Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
15
7. Click OK.
Figure 8: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties Window
6.4.2 Connecting via a Straight-Through Cable
You can connect the ETHERNET of the VP-81K to the Ethernet port on a
network hub or network router, via a straight-through cable with RJ-45
connectors.
6.4.3 Configuring the Ethernet Port
To configure the Ethernet port, download the P3K Wizard 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:
192 . 168. 1 . 39
50000
Figure 9: Connect Screen

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
16
2. Select the method to connect to the Ethernet port of the VP-81K.
Select:
Ethernet, if you know the IP address number or the machine name.
The default name for the machine is KRAMER_XXXX
1
.
Serial, if you are connected via a serial port
3. Click OK.
The P3K Wizard screen appears
2
.




     
 
 

Figure 10: Device Properties Screen
4. If required, make changes and click Set. If not, click Close.
1 The four digits are the last four digits of the machine’ s serial number.
2 Do not use P3K Wizard to upgrade the firmware. To upgrade the firmware, see section 8

Connecting the VP-81K 8x1 UXGA / Audio Switcher
17
6.4.4 Controlling via the Embedded Web Pages
The embedded Web page can be used to remotely operate the VP-81K via the
Ethernet.
Before you use the embedded Web pages to control the VP-81K via the
Ethernet, check that the Java™ software is installed on your computer. If not,
download it from: www.java.com.
To control the VP-81K via the embedded Web page, make sure that it is
connected to the Ethernet port of your computer and do the following:
1. Open your Internet browser.
2. Type the unit’s IP number
1
in the Address bar of your browser:
A Warning-Security screen appears:
3. Click Run.
The VP-81K front panel is displayed on your screen (see Figure 11).
Figure 11: HOME Embedded Web Page
1 The default IP number is 192.168.1.39, and may be changed by the system integrator