Lightware MX16x16DVI-Plus User manual

MX16x16DVI-Plus
MX12x12DVI-Plus
MX9x9DVI-Plus
User’s Manual

Standalone MX DVI-Plus family
User’s Manual
Page 3 / 89
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Class I apparatus construction. This equipment must be used with a main power system with a
protective earth connection. The third (earth) pin is a safety feature, do not bypass or disable it.
This equipment should be operated only from the power source indicated on the product.
To disconnect the equipment safely from power, remove the power cord from the rear of the
equipment, or from the power source. The MAINS plug is used as the disconnect device, the
disconnect device shall remain readily operable.
There are no user-serviceable parts inside of the unit. Removal of the top cover will expose
dangerous voltages. To avoid personal injury, do not remove the top cover. Do not operate the unit
without the cover installed.
The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and that no objects filled with liquids,
such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
The apparatus must be safely connected to multimedia systems. Follow instructions described in this
manual.
Replacing the AC fuse
Unplug the AC power cord from the equipment
Locate the AC fuse on the rear of the unit
Replace only the AC fuse as indicated on the rear panel of the unit: 3.15A fast blowing
Connect the power cord to the switcher and to the AC power source. Make sure the
switcher is working properly.
WEEE (Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment)
Correct Disposal of This Product
This marking shown on the product or its literature, indicates that it should not be disposed
with other household wastes at the end of its working life. To prevent possible harm to the
environment or human health from uncontrolled waste disposal, please separate this from
other types of wastes and recycle it responsibly to promote the sustainable reuse of
material resources.
Household users should contact either the retailer where they purchased this product, or
their local government office, for details of where and how they can take this item for
environmentally safe recycling.
Business users should contact their supplier and check the terms and conditions of the purchase contract.
This product should not be mixed with other commercial wastes for disposal.

Page 4 / 89
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
We, Lightware Kft. 15 Peterdy Street, Budapest H-1071, HUNGARY
as manufacturer declare, that the products
MX16x16DVI-Plus
MX12x12DVI-Plus
MX9x9DVI-Plus
( Computer Matrix Switcher )
in accordance with the EMC Directive 2004/108/EC and the Low Voltage Directive
2006/95/EEC is in conformity with the following standards:
EMI/EMC...................... EN 55103-1 E3, EN 55103-2
Safety.............................................EN 60065 Class I
Date: 28 September 2012
Name: Gergely Vida (Managing Director)
Signed:

Standalone MX DVI-Plus family
User’s Manual
Section 1. Introduction Page 5 / 89
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................................... 8
1.1. BOX CONTENTS.................................................................................................................................... 8
1.2. TYPICAL APPLICATION........................................................................................................................... 8
1.3. FEATURES........................................................................................................................................... 9
2. CONTROLS AND CONNECTIONS ....................................................................................................... 10
2.1. FRONT PANEL VIEW............................................................................................................................ 10
2.2. REAR VIEW ........................................................................................................................................ 11
2.3. ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS ................................................................................................................ 12
2.3.1. DVI inputs ................................................................................................................................ 12
2.3.2. DVI outputs.............................................................................................................................. 12
2.3.3. Equipotential connector ........................................................................................................... 12
2.3.4. RS-232 / RS-422 control port .................................................................................................. 13
2.3.5. Ethernet port............................................................................................................................ 13
3. TECHNOLOGIES ................................................................................................................................... 14
3.1. UNDERSTANDING EDID...................................................................................................................... 14
3.1.1. Basics ...................................................................................................................................... 14
3.1.2. Common problems related to EDID......................................................................................... 14
3.2. ADVANCED EDID MANAGEMENT......................................................................................................... 15
4. OPERATION........................................................................................................................................... 16
4.1. POWER.............................................................................................................................................. 16
4.2. FRONT PANEL OPERATIONS ................................................................................................................ 16
4.2.1. CONTROL LOCK .................................................................................................................... 16
4.2.2. TAKE / AUTOTAKE modes..................................................................................................... 16
4.2.3. SOURCE and DESTINATION buttons .................................................................................... 16
4.2.4. Viewing crosspoint state.......................................................................................................... 16
4.2.5. Switching.................................................................................................................................. 17
4.2.6. Switching operations flowchart................................................................................................ 18
4.2.7. Preset operations..................................................................................................................... 19
4.2.8. OUTPUT LOCK ....................................................................................................................... 20
4.3. REMOTE OPERATION .......................................................................................................................... 21
4.3.1. Control interfaces..................................................................................................................... 21
4.3.2. User interface comparison....................................................................................................... 21
4.3.3. Multiple simultaneous connections.......................................................................................... 22
4.3.4. Serial port settings................................................................................................................... 22
4.3.5. IP settings................................................................................................................................ 22
4.3.6. Control protocols...................................................................................................................... 23
5. SOFTWARE CONTROL –USING LIGHTWARE DEVICE CONTROLLER (LDC)............................... 24
5.1. STEPS OF THE INSTALLATION IN CASE OF WINDOWS OS....................................................................... 24
5.2. STEPS OF THE INSTALLATION IN CASE OF MAC OS X............................................................................ 26
5.3. LDC UPGRADE.................................................................................................................................. 27
5.4. ESTABLISHING THE CONNECTION......................................................................................................... 28
5.5. CROSSPOINT MENU,GRID VIEW .......................................................................................................... 29
5.5.1. Crosspoint operations.............................................................................................................. 30
5.6. CROSSPOINT MENU,TILE VIEW ........................................................................................................... 31
5.6.1. Port tiles................................................................................................................................... 32
5.6.1. View mode............................................................................................................................... 32
5.6.2. Crosspoint operations.............................................................................................................. 32
5.7. PRESETS........................................................................................................................................... 34
5.8. EDID MENU....................................................................................................................................... 35
5.8.1. Sources and Destinations........................................................................................................ 35
5.8.2. Changing emulated EDID........................................................................................................ 36
5.8.3. Exporting an EDID................................................................................................................... 36
5.8.4. Importing an EDID ................................................................................................................... 36

Page 6 / 89 Section 1. Introduction
5.8.5. EDID Summary window........................................................................................................... 36
5.8.6. Editing an EDID ....................................................................................................................... 37
5.8.7. Creating an EDID..................................................................................................................... 37
5.9. SETTINGS MENU................................................................................................................................. 38
5.9.1. Configuration tab ..................................................................................................................... 38
5.9.2. Device information tab............................................................................................................. 39
5.9.3. Log tab..................................................................................................................................... 40
5.10. TERMINAL.......................................................................................................................................... 41
5.11. DEVICE DISCOVERY (INFORMATION RIBBON) ........................................................................................ 41
6. WEB CONTROL –USING BUILT-IN WEBSITE ................................................................................... 42
6.1. CONTROL MENU................................................................................................................................. 43
6.1.1. Crosspoint switching................................................................................................................ 43
6.1.2. Mute outputs............................................................................................................................ 43
6.1.3. Lock outputs............................................................................................................................. 43
6.1.4. Preset operations..................................................................................................................... 43
6.2. EDID MENU....................................................................................................................................... 44
6.2.1. Change emulated EDID at one or all inputs ............................................................................ 44
6.3. STATUS MENU.................................................................................................................................... 46
6.3.1. Generate report file.................................................................................................................. 46
6.3.2. Generate custom report........................................................................................................... 47
6.4. CONFIGURATION MENU....................................................................................................................... 48
6.4.1. Automatic IP Address Configuration........................................................................................ 48
6.4.2. Static IP address configuration................................................................................................ 49
6.4.3. Loading the default IP settings ................................................................................................ 49
6.4.4. TCP Port Configuration............................................................................................................ 49
6.4.5. Loading the default TCP Port settings..................................................................................... 49
6.5. TERMINAL.......................................................................................................................................... 50
6.6. SUPPORT........................................................................................................................................... 50
7. ABOUT EDID MEMORY ........................................................................................................................ 51
8. PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE............................................................................................................ 52
8.1. CHANGING PROTOCOLS...................................................................................................................... 52
8.2. PROTOCOL DESCRIPTION.................................................................................................................... 52
8.3. BATCH COMMANDS............................................................................................................................. 52
8.4. SWITCHING AND CONTROL COMMANDS................................................................................................ 53
8.4.1. Switch one input to one output ................................................................................................ 53
8.4.2. Switch one input to all outputs................................................................................................. 53
8.4.3. View connection on the specified output ................................................................................. 53
8.4.4. View connection on all outputs................................................................................................ 54
8.4.5. View mutes on all outputs........................................................................................................ 55
8.4.6. Mute specified output............................................................................................................... 55
8.4.7. Unmute specified output.......................................................................................................... 55
8.4.8. Lock specified output............................................................................................................... 55
8.4.9. Unlock specified output............................................................................................................ 56
8.4.10. Save preset to the specified memory location......................................................................... 56
8.4.11. Load preset from the specified location................................................................................... 56
8.4.12. Preview preset......................................................................................................................... 56
8.4.13. Rename a preset ..................................................................................................................... 57
8.4.14. Rename an input ..................................................................................................................... 57
8.4.15. Rename an output................................................................................................................... 57
8.4.16. Read a preset’s name.............................................................................................................. 57
8.4.17. Read an input’s name.............................................................................................................. 58
8.4.18. Read an output’s name............................................................................................................ 58
8.4.19. Reload default preset names................................................................................................... 58
8.4.20. Reload default input names..................................................................................................... 58
8.4.21. Reload default output names................................................................................................... 59
8.4.22. Reload factory default output setup......................................................................................... 59
8.4.23. Query IP settings ..................................................................................................................... 59
8.4.24. Reload factory default IP settings............................................................................................ 60

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User’s Manual
Section 1. Introduction Page 7 / 89
8.4.25. Load DHCP IP settings (only IP address!) .............................................................................. 60
8.4.26. View LAN versions................................................................................................................... 60
8.5. PORT STATUS COMMANDS .................................................................................................................. 61
8.5.1. Input port status....................................................................................................................... 61
8.5.2. Output port status .................................................................................................................... 61
8.6. ROUTER STATUS COMMANDS.............................................................................................................. 62
8.6.1. View product type .................................................................................................................... 62
8.6.2. View serial number .................................................................................................................. 62
8.6.3. View Firmware version of the CPU.......................................................................................... 62
8.6.4. View CPU firmware compile time ............................................................................................ 62
8.6.5. View Installed I/O cards’ hardware .......................................................................................... 63
8.6.6. View installed controllers’ firmware.......................................................................................... 63
8.6.7. View current control protocol................................................................................................... 63
8.6.8. Set current control protocol...................................................................................................... 64
8.6.9. View error list........................................................................................................................... 64
8.6.10. View all error lists..................................................................................................................... 64
8.6.11. Clear error list .......................................................................................................................... 65
8.7. EDID ROUTER COMMANDS ................................................................................................................. 65
8.7.1. Route EDID to the selected input (static) ................................................................................ 65
8.7.2. Route EDID to the selected input (dynamic) ........................................................................... 65
8.7.3. Route one EDID to all inputs ................................................................................................... 66
8.7.4. View EDID switch status on all inputs ..................................................................................... 66
8.7.5. Save EDID from output to memory location (Learn EDID)...................................................... 66
8.7.6. View EDID validity table........................................................................................................... 67
8.7.7. View EDID header ................................................................................................................... 67
8.7.8. Download EDID content from the router.................................................................................. 68
8.7.9. Upload EDID content to the router .......................................................................................... 68
8.7.10. Delete all EDID from memory.................................................................................................. 69
8.8. ROUTER INITIATED COMMANDS ........................................................................................................... 69
8.8.1. Restart CPU controller............................................................................................................. 69
8.8.2. Restart EDID controller............................................................................................................ 69
8.8.3. EDID status changed............................................................................................................... 70
8.8.4. Error responses ....................................................................................................................... 70
9. COMMANDS –QUICK SUMMARY ....................................................................................................... 71
10. FIRMWARE UPGRADE ......................................................................................................................... 73
10.1. INSTALLING THE BOOTLOADER............................................................................................................ 73
10.1.1. Installing and launching the Bootloader software.................................................................... 73
10.2. UPGRADE PROCESS ........................................................................................................................... 74
10.2.1. Tips for the upgrade process................................................................................................... 74
10.3.1. Firmware upgrade.................................................................................................................... 75
11. TROUBLESHOOTING ........................................................................................................................... 82
11.1. GENERAL PROBLEMS.......................................................................................................................... 82
11.2. SERIAL CONNECTION PROBLEMS......................................................................................................... 82
11.3. TCP/IP CONNECTION PROBLEMS ........................................................................................................ 82
11.4. PICTURE IS NOT DISPLAYED OR DISTORTED.......................................................................................... 83
11.5. BOOTLOAD ........................................................................................................................................ 83
12. SPECIFICATIONS.................................................................................................................................. 85
12.1. MECHANICAL DRAWINGS .................................................................................................................... 87
12.2. AIRFLOW DIRECTIONS......................................................................................................................... 88
13. VERSION APPLICABILITY.................................................................................................................... 89
14. WARRANTY ........................................................................................................................................... 89
15. DOCUMENT REVISION HISTORY........................................................................................................ 89

Page 8 / 89 Section 1. Introduction
1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing Lightware routers. The standalone DVI-Plus matrices are single
link DVI matrix switchers with various DVI inputs and DVI outputs respectively, which routes
any input(s) to any combination of output(s).
The routers conform to DVI and HDMI specification without HDCP encryption, and switch
signals between 25 - 225 MHz pixel clock frequency: from 640x480@60Hz to
1920x1200@60Hz or 2048x1080@60Hz resolutions.
The input signals are compensated for 12dB loss and outputs are pre-emphasized by
+6dB, this way cable lengths up to 20 meters (65 feet) can be used.
The switcher has an RS-232 (or RS-422 optional) and an RJ45 LAN port for remote control
applications and a control panel for local control operation. Front panel buttons are
illuminated and reconfigurable with text for informative system integration.
1.1. Box contents
Matrix router
IEC power cable
CD-ROM with Lightware
Device Controller SW
RS-232 9-pole D-sub
straight serial cable
UTP cross-link cable
User’s manual
(this document)
1.2. Typical application
Figure 1-1. Typical application for MX16x16DVI-Plus

Standalone MX DVI-Plus family
User’s Manual
Section 1. Introduction Page 9 / 89
1.3. Features
Advanced EDID Management –The user can emulate any EDID on the switcher's
inputs independently, read out and store any attached monitor's EDID in 100 internal
memory locations, upload and download EDID files using Lightware Device Control
Software.
Non-blocking cross point matrix architecture –The router allows any input to be
switched to any output or more outputs simultaneously.
2.25 Gb/s channel transmission –Routes any DVI single link and HDMI signal
between 25 and 225 MHz pixel clock frequency conforming to DVI and HDMI standards.
Supports all HDTV resolutions –720p, 1080i, 1080p 2K etc. HDTV signals without
HDCP encryption up to 225 MHz pixel clock frequency regardless of the actual
resolution passed through the router.
Supports HDMI signals –non HDCP encrypted HDMI signals (with embedded audio)
are handled properly.
Cable equalization –DVI cables up to 20 meters can be used on all inputs thanks to
the +12dB compensation.
Output boost –DVI cables up to 15 meters can be used on all outputs thanks to the
+6dB pre-emphasizing circuit.
Control by front panel buttons –16 or 12 or 9 source select, 16 or 12 or 9 destination
select, Take/Auto, Load Preset, Save Preset, Control Lock and Output Lock.
Buttons with custom labels –Each button has a removable flat cap and a translucent
label that can be inserted under the cap to identify sources and destinations.
RS-232 or RS-422 control –Simple ASCII based-protocol is used for switching, preset
calling, status request, etc.
Ethernet control –TCP/IP Ethernet 10Base-T or 100Base-TX (Auto-Sensing).
Built-in WEB site –Easy access from a WEB browser to control and configure the
switcher.
Universal power supply –The built-in power supply accepts AC voltages from 100 to
240 Volts with 50 or 60 Hz line frequency on standard IEC-320 C14 connector.
Power failure memory –In case of power failure, the unit stores its latest configuration,
and after next power up it loads automatically.
Fiber cable support –Self-powered DVI fiber cables use +5V from DVI sources
(graphic cards, etc.). Those cables usually consume more than the maximum allowed
value (50 mA) according to DVI 1.0 standard. DVI-Plus series supports +5V 500 mA
constant current output on each DVI output to power long distance fiber optical cables.
Zero frame delay –Lightware’s matrices add no frame noticeable delay to the switched
signal. There is no frame or line period delays to the signals when passing a Lightware
router.
Application examples
Small classrooms,
Multi-room video control,
Avionics,
Military,
Conference rooms.

Page 10 / 89 Section 2. Controls and connections
2. Controls and connections
2.1. Front panel view
Figure 2-1. Front panel view
Control Lock Disables or enables front panel operation. When red illuminated, all
operations on front panel are prohibited. See section 4.2.1 on page
16 for more information.
Output Lock Locks and protects one (or more) outputs. Inhibits accidental input
changing on protected output. See section 4.2.8 on page 20 for more
information.
Source buttons Source buttons have three functions: to select an input, to select a
preset and to view the selected input’s state (only in TAKE mode).
See section 4.2 on page 16 for more information.
Destination buttons Destination buttons have two functions: to select an output and to view
the selected output’s state. See section 4.2 on page 16 for more
information.
Take / Auto Displays the actual switching mode of the router (TAKE or
AUTOTAKE). Long press toggles the switching mode, short press
executes switching in TAKE mode. See section 4.2.2 on page 16 for
more information.
Load Preset Loads and executes a previously saved preset from one of the preset
memories.
Save Preset Stores actual matrix state in one of the preset memories. See section
4.2.7 on page 19 for more information.
Power switch The matrix can be switched ON/OFF with the switch.
Info: MX12x12DVI-Plus front panel differs only in that it has 12 source and 12 destination
buttons.
Info: MX9x9DVI-Plus front panel differs only in that it has 9 source and 9 destination buttons.
1
Control lock
3
Source buttons
6
Preset
5
Take / Auto
2
Output lock
4
Destination buttons
7
Power switch
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

Standalone MX DVI-Plus family
User’s Manual
Section 2. Controls and connections Page 11 / 89
2.2. Rear view
Figure 2-2. Rear view
DC voltage indicators LED indicators for internal DC power voltages.
Power connector Standard IEC-320 C14 power connector. The router works with 100
to 240 Volts, 50 or 60 Hz power sources. The fuse can be replaced
with F3.15A type only!
Serial port 9 pole D-SUB female connector. Can be ordered with RS-232 or
RS-422 control. See section 2.3.4 on page 13 for more information.
Ethernet port Locking RJ45 connector. Remote control port for connecting the unit
to Local Area Network (LAN). See section 2.3.5 on page 13 for more
information.
Input connectors 29 pole DVI–I digital-only female receptacle connectors. Connect
DVI source devices to these connectors. See section 2.3.1 on page
12 for more information.
Output connectors 29 pole DVI–I digital-only female receptacle connectors. Connect
DVI sink devices to these connectors. See section 2.3.2 on page 12
for more information.
CPU live LED Continuously blinking LED if the CPU works properly.
Reset button Resets all internal hardware elements.
Equipotential connector Plug connector for potential equalization. See section 2.3.3 on page
12 for more information.
Info: MX12x12DVI-Plus rear panel differs only in that it has 12 input and 12 output connectors.
Info: MX9x9DVI-Plus rear panel differs only in that it has 9 input and 9 output connectors.
1
DC Voltage LEDs
5
Input connectors
3
Serial port
9
Equipotential connector
7
CPU LIVE LED
8
Reset button
2
Power connector
6
Output connectors
4
Ethernet port
8
2
3
4
5
6
7
1
9

Page 12 / 89 Section 2. Controls and connections
2.3. Electrical connections
2.3.1. DVI inputs
Standalone DVI-Plus matrices provide 29 pole DVI-I connectors for inputs, however only
digital pins are internally connected. This way, users can plug in any DVI connector, but
keep in mind that analog signals (such as VGA or RGBHV) are NOT processed. Fix +12 dB
cable equalization is provided, this way DVI cables up to 20 meters can be used on all
inputs. Always use high quality DVI cable for connecting sources and displays.
Pin
Signal
Pin
Signal
Pin
Signal
1
TMDS Data2-
9
TMDS Data1-
17
TMDS Data0-
2
TMDS Data2+
10
TMDS Data1+
18
TMDS Data0+
3
TMDS Data2 Shield
11
TMDS Data1 Shield
19
TMDS Data0 Shield
4
nc
12
nc
20
nc
5
nc
13
nc
21
nc
6
DDC Clock
14
+5V Power
22
TMDS Clock Shield
7
DDC Data
15
GND (for +5V)
23
TMDS Clock+
8
nc
16
Hot Plug Detect
24
TMDS Clock-
C1
nc
C2
nc
C3
nc
C4
nc
C5
GND
Table 2-1. DVI-I digital only connector Single Link pin assignments
2.3.2. DVI outputs
Standalone DVI-Plus matrices provide 29 pole DVI-I connectors for outputs, however only
digital pins are internally connected. This way, users can plug in any DVI connector, but
keep in mind that analog signals (such as VGA or RGBHV) are NOT processed. Thanks to
the fix +6 dB pre-emphasizing circuit, DVI cables up to 15 meters can be used. For using
longer cable runs at outputs, use fiber optical DVI transmitters (like Lightware DVI-OPT-
TX110) or active DVI repeaters/extenders. No output reclocking is provided.
Fiber Cable powering
As a special feature standalone DVI-Plus matrices are able to supply 500 mA current on
DDC +5V output (pin 14 on output connectors) to power fiber optical DVI cables. Standard
DVI outputs or graphic cards supply only 55 mA current on +5V output, thus unable to
power directly a fiber optical cable.
Info: The matrix switcher does not check if the connected sink supports Hotplug or EDID signals
but outputs the selected signal immediately after switch command.
2.3.3. Equipotential connector
The purpose of additional potential equalization is to equalize potentials
between different metal parts that can be touched simultaneously, or to
reduce differences of potential which can occur during operation
between the bodies of medical electrical devices and conductive parts
of other objects. Ø6 mm plug made of nickel-plated brass can be found
on the left side of the unit’s back for potential equalization.
C1
C2
C4
C3
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
C5

Standalone MX DVI-Plus family
User’s Manual
Section 2. Controls and connections Page 13 / 89
2.3.4. RS-232 / RS-422 control port
Lightware standalone DVI-Plus matrices can be remote controlled through industry
standard 9 pole D-SUB female connector located on the rear panel of the unit. The router
can be ordered with RS-232 or RS-422 control port.
Figure 2-3. D-SUB 9 pole female connector (DE9F)
Pin nr.
RS-232
RS-422
1
NC - non connected
TX- data transmit complement
2
TX data transmit (output)
TX+ data transmit true
3
RX data receive (input)
RX+ data receive true
4
DTR (internally connected to Pin 6)
RX- data receive complement
5
GND signal ground (shield)
GND signal ground (shield)
6
DSR (internally connected to Pin 4)
NC - non connected
7
RTS (internally connected to Pin 8)
NC - non connected
8
CTS (internally connected to Pin 7)
NC - non connected
9
NC - non connected
NC - non connected
Table 2-2. D-SUB 9 pole pin assignments
2.3.5. Ethernet port
The matrix can be remote controlled via Ethernet as well. The matrix can be connected to
a LAN hub, switch or router with a UTP patch cable. If connecting to a computer directly, a
cross UTP cable has to be used! The robust Neutrik EtherCON connector ensures reliable
connection, however normal RJ45 connectors can be used as well.
The recommended termination is based on TIA/EIA T 568 A or TIA/EIA T 568 B standards.
Pin
TIA/EIA T568 A
color and name
TIA/EIA T568 B
color and name
1
white/green stripe
white/orange stripe
2
green solid
orange solid
3
white/orange stripe
white/green stripe
4
blue solid
blue solid
5
white/blue stripe
white/blue stripe
6
orange solid
green solid
7
white/brown stripe
white/brown stripe
8
brown solid
brown solid
Table 2-3. Recommended termination of TP cables
1
5
6
9
1
8
1
8
1

Page 14 / 89 Section 3. Technologies
3. Technologies
3.1. Understanding EDID
3.1.1. Basics
EDID stands for Extended Display Identification Data. Simply put, EDID is the passport of
display devices (monitors, TV sets, projectors). It contains information about the display’s
capabilities, such as supported resolutions, refresh rates (these are called Detailed
Timings), the type and manufacturer of the display device, etc.
After connecting a DVI source to a DVI display, the source reads out the EDID to determine
the resolution and refresh rate of the image to be transmitted.
Figure 3-1. EDID communication
Most DVI computer displays have 128-byte long EDID structure. However, Digital
Televisions and HDMI capable displays may have another 128 bytes, which is called E-
EDID and defined by CEA (Consumer Electronics Association). This extension contains
information about additional Detailed Timings, audio capabilities, speaker allocation and
HDMI capabilities. It is important to know, that all HDMI capable devices must have CEA
extension, but not all devices are HDMI capable which have the extension.
3.1.2. Common problems related to EDID
Problem: „My system consists of the following: a computer, a Lightware
MX16x16DVI-Plus matrix, a WUXGA (1920x1200) LCD monitor, and an SXGA
(1280x1024) projector. I would like to see the same image on the monitors and
the projector. What EDID should I chose on the monitor and the projector?”
Solution: If you want to see the image on both displays, you need to select the resolution
of the smallest display (in this case SXGA), otherwise the smaller display may
not show the higher resolution image.

Standalone MX DVI-Plus family
User’s Manual
Section 3. Technologies Page 15 / 89
Problem: „I have changed to a different EDID on an input port of the matrix to have a
different resolution but nothing happens.”
Solution: Some graphics cards and video sources read out the EDID only after power-up
and later they don’t sense that EDID has been changed. You need to restart
your source to make it read out the EDID again.
Problem: „I have an MX16x16DVI-Plus and I’m using a Lightware factory preset EDID. I
would like to be able to choose from different resolutions, but my source allows
only one resolution.”
Solution: Most Lightware factory preset EDIDs allow only one resolution, forcing the
sources to output only that particular signal. You need to select a Universal
EDID. It supports all common VESA resolutions. Additionally it also features
audio support.
3.2. Advanced EDID Management
Each DVI sink (e.g. monitors, projectors, plasma displays, and switcher inputs) must
support the EDID data structure. Source BIOS and operating systems are likely to query
the sink using DDC2B protocolto determine what pixel formats and interface are supported.
HDMI standard makes use of EDID data structure for the identification of the monitor type
and capabilities. Most DVI sources (graphic cards, set top boxes, etc.) will output DVI signal
after accepting the connected sink’s EDID information. In case of EDID readout failure or
missing EDID the source will not output DVI video signal. MX16x16DVI-Plus provides
Lightware’s Advanced EDID Management function that helps system integration. The built
in EDID Router stores and emulates 100 EDID data plus all monitor's EDID that are
connected to the output connectors. First 50 EDID are factory presets, while memories 51
to 100 are user programmable. The router stores the EDID of all attached monitors or
projectors for each output in a non-volatile memory. This way the EDID from a monitor is
available when the monitor is unplugged, or switched off.
Any EDID can be emulated on any input. An emulated EDID can be copied from the EDID
router's memory (static EDID emulation), or from the last attached monitors memory
(dynamic EDID emulation). For example, the router can be set up to emulate a device,
which is connected to one of the outputs. In this case the EDID automatically changes, if
the monitor is replaced with another display device (as long as it has a valid EDID).
EDID is independently programmable for all inputs without affecting each other. All input
has its own EDID circuit. EDID Router can be controlled via serial port or Ethernet.
Info: The user is not required to disconnect the DVI cable to change an EDID as opposed to
other manufacturer’s products. EDID can be changed even if a source is connected to the
input and it is powered ON.
Info: When EDID has been changed, the router toggles the HOTPLUG signal for 2 seconds.
Some sources do not observe this signal, so in this case the change is not recognized by
the source. In such cases the source device must be restarted or powered OFF and ON
again.

Page 16 / 89 Section 4. Operation
4. Operation
4.1. Power
Connect the power cord to the router’s standard IEC-320 C14 AC power input connector.
The unit can be switched ON/OFF with the front panel rocker switch. When it is on, the
switch illuminates, and the fan operates.
After powered on, the unit performs a self-test, and then all front panel buttons light up for
one second. After the self-test the CPU live LED starts blinking, the router reloads its last
configuration and it is ready to use.
Info: After switching ON, the router reloads the latest settings which had been used before it
was turned off. The router has an internal emergency memory that stores all current
settings and tie configurations. That memory is independent from presets and invisible for
the user. This built-in feature helps the system to be ready immediately in case of power
failure or accidental power down.
4.2. Front panel operations
4.2.1. CONTROL LOCK
Front panel button operations can be enabled or disabled using CONTROL LOCK button,
while RS-232 / RS-422 and Ethernet control is still enabled. If the button is not illuminated,
front panel button operations are enabled. If it illuminates red continuously, front panel
operations are inhibited.
Press and release the CONTROL LOCK button to toggle the control lock state.
4.2.2. TAKE / AUTOTAKE modes
The router has two different switching modes: TAKE and AUTOTAKE. If the TAKE / AUTO
button is unlit, TAKE mode is active. When the TAKE / AUTO button continuously lights
green, AUTOTAKE mode is selected.
Press and hold the TAKE / AUTO button for three seconds to toggle between TAKE and
AUTOTAKE modes.
TAKE mode allows the user to connect or disconnect multiple outputs to an input at once.
This mode is useful when time delay is not allowed between multiple switching. The
commands are only realized when the TAKE button is pressed. If no button is pressed for
two seconds, all preselected actions (which were not realized with the pressing TAKE) will
be ignored, and the router returns to its idle state.
AUTOTAKE mode is useful when immediate actions must be done or fast switching is
needed between sources on a particular destination. In this mode switching occurs
immediately upon pressing one of the input selector buttons.
4.2.3. SOURCE and DESTINATION buttons
Input and output ports have dedicated buttons on the front panel. These buttons are labeled
with numbers and have backlight to indicate active or selected ports. These are referred as
SOURCES and DESTINATIONS buttons.
4.2.4. Viewing crosspoint state
User can check the current switching status on the front panel using front panel buttons.
This status view feature is slightly different in TAKE or AUTOTAKE modes because of
different switching philosophy of the two modes.
Info: Status view occurs whenever the router has to be switched. After entering the view state,
the user can change the routing configuration. Viewing and switching can be done after
each other, or if nothing is pressed for three seconds, the router returns to idle state.

Standalone MX DVI-Plus family
User’s Manual
Section 4. Operation Page 17 / 89
View current state in TAKE mode
If all source and destination buttons and TAKE button are unlit (the unit is in TAKE mode,
and no input was selected in last 3 seconds), user can verify both input and output
connections. This informative display will remain for 3 seconds, and then all button lamps
go out. In TAKE mode no accidental change can be done unless TAKE button is pressed.
For viewing input connections, press and release a source button. Now the selected
source button and all destination buttons will light up which are currently connected to the
selected source.
For viewing output connections, press and release a destination button. Now the source
button which is connected to the selected destination will light up. If no source button is
lighting, the selected destination is in muted state.
View current state in AUTOTAKE mode
In AUTOTAKE mode only states of destinations can be viewed.
Press and release the required destination button. Now the source button which is
connected to the selected destination will light up. If no source button is lighting, the
selected destination is in muted state. By pressing another destination button, the state of
that destination can be seen.
Info: Be careful, as in AUTOTAKE mode if a source button is pressed, it is immediately
connected to the last selected destination.
4.2.5. Switching
Creating a connection or multiple connections in TAKE mode
Step 1. First press and release the selected source button. The pressed source button and
all destination buttons which are currently connected to this source will light up. The
dark remaining destination buttons are not connected to this source. This is an
informative display about current status of the selected input (view only).
Step 2. Press and release the selected destination button or buttons which has to be
connected to the selected source. The preselected destination button(s) start(s)
blinking.
Step 3. Press and release TAKE button to execute the tie or ties. Now the selected input is
switched to the selected output or to the multiple outputs.
Info: If the pressed destination is locked then it could not beselected. This is indicated by a short
flash of the OUTPUT LOCK when a locked destination is pressed.
Disconnecting or muting in TAKE mode
Step 1. First press and release the selected source button. The pressed source button and
all destination buttons which are currently connected to this source will light up. The
dark remaining destination buttons are not connected to this source. This is an
informative display about current status of the selected input (view only).
Step 2. Press and release the selected, green lighting destination button which has to be
disconnected from the selected source. The pressed destination or multiple
destinations will turn dark.
Step 3. Press and release TAKE button to execute disconnection.
Info: Deselected destinations are disconnected from any source, thus output devices will display
black image or "no signal" message, or automatically will turn off.
Info: If the pressed destination is locked then it could not be deselected. This is indicated by a
short flash of the OUTPUT LOCK when a locked destination is pressed.
Info: Multiple switching and deselecting actions can be done simultaneously, during only one
TAKE action.

Page 18 / 89 Section 4. Operation
Creating a connection in AUTOTAKE mode
Step 1. Press and release the selected destination button. The pressed destination button,
and the actually connected source button light up green. If no source is connected
(the output is muted) no source button will light up.
Step 2. Press and release the selected input button. The switch action will be executed
immediately. Switching between sources to the selected destination can be done
directly.
Info: If the pressed destination is locked then sources could not be selected. This is indicated by
a continuously light of the OUTPUT LOCK when a locked destination is pressed.
Deselecting or muting in AUTOTAKE mode
Step 1. Press and release the selected destination button. The pressed destination button,
and the actually connected source button are lighting green. If no source is
connected (the output is muted) no source button will light up.
Step 2. Press and release the active green lighting source button. The output is muted.
Info: Deselected destinations are disconnected from any source, thus output devices will display
black or blue image or "no signal" message and may automatically turn off.
Info: If the pressed destination is locked then sources could not be deselected. This is indicated
by a continuously light of the OUTPUT LOCK when a locked destination is pressed.
4.2.6. Switching operations flowchart
To better understand the viewing and switching sequence in TAKE and AUTOTAKE
modes, please study the below diagrams.
TAKE mode
Figure 4-1. Switching flowchart in TAKE mode
idle
TAKE
mode
TAKE
button
pressed
connections
realized
previewing
connections
source
button
pressed
viewing
source
connections
select or
deselect
destinations
nothing pressed for 3 sec
destination
button
pressed
viewing
destination
connection
nothing pressed for 3 sec
multiple connections can be made by a single TAKE action

Standalone MX DVI-Plus family
User’s Manual
Section 4. Operation Page 19 / 89
AUTOTAKE mode
Figure 4-2. Switching flowchart in AUTOTAKE mode
4.2.7. Preset operations
Lightware matrices have 32 user programmable presets. Each preset stores a
configuration regarding all input connections and mute state for all outputs. All presets are
stored in a non-volatile memory; the router keeps presets even in case of power down.
Memory numbers are assigned to source buttons. The higher numbered presets are
accessible only through software control.
Info: Preset save action always stores the current configuration for all outputs including mute
state, but ignoring lock state.
Info: Loading a preset modifies all output states that are not currently locked.
Saving a Preset in TAKE mode
Step 1. Create the desired connections which have to be saved.
Step 2. Press and release the SAVE PRESET button.
Step 3. Press and release a source button according to the desired memory address
(source 1 to 16 or 12 or 9).
Step 4. Press and release TAKE button; the configuration is stored in the selected memory.
Loading a Preset in TAKE mode
Step 1. Press and release LOAD PRESET button.
Step 2. Press and release a source button according to the desired memory address
(source 1 to 16 or 12 or 9).
Step 3. Press and release TAKE button. Now the selected preset is loaded.
Saving a Preset in AUTOTAKE mode
Step 1. Create the desired connections which have to be saved.
Step 2. Press and release SAVE PRESET button.
Step 3. Press and release a source button according to the desired memory address
(source 1 to 16 or 12 or 9). The configuration is stored in the selected memory.
Loading a Preset in AUTOTAKE mode
Step 1. Press and release LOAD PRESET button.
Step 2. Press and release a source button according to the desired memory address
(source 1 to 16 or 12 or 9). Now the selected preset is loaded.
connection
realized
destination button
pressed
viewing last destination’s
connection
select or deselect
source
idle
AUTOTAKE mode

Page 20 / 89 Section 4. Operation
4.2.8. OUTPUT LOCK
A destination’s state can be locked; this feature prevents an accidental switching to the
locked destination in case of important signal. Locking a destination means, that no input
selection or muting can be executed on that particular destination. Destinations can be
independently locked or unlocked. Locking a destination does not affect other destinations.
View locked outputs in TAKE mode
Step 1. Press and release the Output Lock button.
Step 2. The Output Lock button starts to blink and all the buttons of any locked destinations
light up, and remain illuminated for three seconds.
Lock an output in TAKE mode
Step 1. Press and release the Output Lock button.
Step 2. Now the Output Lock button starts to blink and all the locked output’s buttons
illuminate green (view state).
Step 3. If no button is pressed for three seconds, the router returns to idle state.
Step 4. If an unlit output button is pressed, it starts to blink, to indicate that it is preselected
for output locking.
Step 5. Press and release TAKE button. The selected destinations are now locked.
Unlock an output in TAKE mode
Step 1. Press and release the Output Lock button.
Step 2. Now the Output Lock button starts to blink and all the locked output’s buttons
illuminate green (view state).
Step 3. If no button is pressed for three seconds, the router returns to idle state.
Step 4. If an illuminating output button is pressed, it goes off, to indicate that it is
preselected for unlocking.
Step 5. Press and release the TAKE button. The deselected destinations are now
unlocked.
View locked outputs in AUTOTAKE mode
In AUTOTAKE mode a destination is selected all the time. Therefore the currently selected
output and input buttons are illuminated. The Output Lock button illuminates regarding to
the lock state of the current output.
Viewing all locked outputs is not possible in AUTOTAKE mode, as pressing the Output
Lock button instantly locks or unlocks the current output.
Lock an output in AUTOTAKE mode
Step 1. Press and release the required destination button. Now the selected destination
button and the currently configured source button light up (view mode).
Step 2. Press and release the Output Lock button. Now the Output Lock button lights up in
red, and lock function is activated at once. No source can be changed at the locked
destination.
Unlock an output in AUTOTAKE mode
Step 1. Press and release the required destination button which was previously locked.
Now the selected destination button and the currently configured source button and
the Output Lock button light up.
Step 2. Press and release the Output Lock button (deselect). Now the Output Lock button
turns off, and the locking function has been cancelled.