Altinex 400-0026-004 User Manual

MATRIX SWITCHERS

MANUAL PART NUMBER: 400-0026-004
PRODUCT REVISION: 2

HOMERUN SERIES

MATRIX SWITCHERS

USER’S GUIDE

MATRIX SWITCHERS

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing a HOMERUN Series
Matrix Switcher. We are sure you will find it to be
reliable and simple to use.

The HOMERUN Series Matrix Switchers are
designed using state-of-the-art technology and offer
a unique combination of features not available
anywhere else.

We are committed to providing our customers with
signal management solutions to the most
demanding audio-visual installations.

We appreciate your selection of our products and
are confident that you will join the ranks of our
many satisfied customers throughout the world.

This manual covers:

(HOMERUN Series model no.)
HMAxxyy – VmAn

HMVxxyy – VmAn
HMRxxyy – VmAn

Where
HMA Audio (Mono / Stereo) HOMERUN

Switcher

HMV 200MHz Video (Composite, S-Video &

Component) HOMERUN Switcher

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

PRECAUTIONS/SAFETY WARNINGS..................2

GENERAL ..........................................................2

INSTALLATION..................................................2

RACK-MOUNT INSTALLATION .........................2

CLEANING.........................................................2

FCC NOTICE......................................................2

ABOUT YOUR HOMERUN MATRIX SWITCHER .3

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS............................3

DIAGRAM OF FRONT/BACK PANEL ....................4

APPLICATION DIAGRAM......................................6

INSTALLING YOUR SWITCHER...........................7

OPERATION..........................................................8

BACK PANEL MANUAL CONTROL...................8

RS-232 CONTROL OF THE SWITCHER ...........9

CP-02 REMOTE TERMINAL CONTROL ..........18

WINDOWS BASED CONTROL SOFTWARE...20

ACCESSORIES................................................... 21

FAQ (FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS) .......21

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE.............................22

ALTINEX POLICY................................................23

LIMITED WARRANTY......................................23

RETURN POLICY.............................................23

CONTACT INFORMATION ..............................23

HMR 300 MHz Video (High resolution

RGsB, RGBS, RGBHV) HOMERUN
Switcher

xx number of inputs per each HOMERUN

Switcher module

yy number of outputs per each

HOMERUN Switcher module

m number of HOMERUN Video Switcher

modules in the system

n number of HOMERUN Audio Switcher

modules in the system

1

MATRIX SWITCHERS

PRECAUTIONS/SAFETY WARNINGS 1

Please read this manual carefully before using your
HOMERUN Series Matrix Switcher. Keep this
manual handy for future reference. These safety
instructions are to ensure the long life of your
HOMERUN Series Matrix Switcher and to prevent
fire and shock hazard. Please read them carefully
and heed all warnings.

1.1 GENERAL

• Unauthorized personnel shall not open the unit
since there are high-voltage components
inside.

• Qualified Altinex service personnel, or their
authorized representatives must perform all
service.

1.2 INSTALLATION

• For best results, place the HOMERUN Series
Switchers on a flat, level surface in a dry area,
away from dust and moisture. To prevent fire
or shock, do not expose this unit to rain or
moisture.

• Handle your HOMERUN Switcher carefully.
Dropping or jarring can damage the internal
components. Do not place heavy objects on
top of the HOMERUN Switcher.

• Do not place the HOMERUN Switcher in direct
sunlight, near heaters or heat radiating
appliances, or near any liquid. Exposure to
direct sunlight, smoke, or steam can harm
internal components. Do not pull the power
cord or any signal cables that are attached to
the HOMERUN. If the HOMERUN is not used
for an extended period of time, disconnect the
power cord from the power outlet.

1.3 RACK-MOUNT INSTALLATION

• Use only Altinex supplied rack-mount ears for
mounting the HOMERUN Switcher into a rack.

• The maximum operating ambient temperature
is 45 degrees Centigrade.

• When installing the HOMERUN Series
Switcher into a rack, distribute individual units
evenly, otherwise hazardous conditions may be
created by an uneven weight distribution. Allow

1-U rack space for every 4 HOMERUN
Switcher modules for air circulation. This will
reduce heat build up and will prolong the life of
the HOMERUN Switcher.

• Connect the HOMERUN Series Switcher to a
properly rated power outlet.

• Reliable grounding of the HOMERUN Series
Switcher should be maintained by using the
provided 3-prong power cord only.
Furthermore, make sure that the rack is
properly grounded.

1.4 CLEANING

• Unplug the HOMERUN Series Switcher’s
power cord before cleaning.

• Clean surfaces with a dry cloth. Never use
strong detergents or solvents such as alcohol
or thinner. Do not use a wet cloth or water to
clean the unit.

1.5 FCC NOTICE

• This device complies with the part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference that may cause
undesired operation.

• Any changes or modifications to the unit not
expressly approved by Altinex, Inc. could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

• This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be
required to correct the interference at his own
expense.

2

MATRIX SWITCHERS

ABOUT YOUR HOMERUN MATRIX
SWITCHER 2

The HOMERUN Matrix Switcher is a state-of-the-art
product designed to route up to 16 inputs to 16
outputs. The HOMERUN Matrix Switcher consists
of 1-U high rack wide modules. Combining multiple
modules can create larger configurations. The
HOMERUN Switcher is designed to switch
Composite Video, S-Video, RGsB, RGBS, RGBHV
analog video signals, and mono or stereo audio
signals. The individual video modules are combined
to form a RGsB, RGBS or RGBHV configuration.
Audio modules are used to add mono or stereo
audio. The specified video bandwidth of the
switcher is 300 MHz for high resolution video and
200 MHz for broadcast video. Equipped with simple
to use, yet sophisticated control functions, the
HOMERUN is an elegant solution for boardroom
systems, training rooms or other large size
presentation systems. Its design offers extensive
and powerful control capabilities through RS-232
port for easy remote control of the unit using a
computer or control system.

Several control options are available with the
product including Front Panel, Remote Control
pad/rack panel and Touch LCD control.

Manual switching on the back panel allows easy
operation of the module during testing and
installation.

FEATURES/

DESCRIPTION

Switching Time <1ms <1ms
Gain 1.01 6dB

Power

Internal Power Supply 90-260VAC
Power 50W max

Input

Video BNC (F)
Audio

Level 1.2V p-p +/-5V p-p
Impedance 75 Ohms 600 Ohms

Coupling DC DC

Output

Video BNC (F) _
Audio

Impedance 75 Ohms 600 Ohms
DC on Outputs 60 mV +/-60mV

Level 1.2Vp-p max _
Coupling DC DC

Adjustments/Controls

RS-232 x x
Back Panel Switching x x

Special Functions

Vertical Interval Switching (Optional) _
SYNC Delay (Optional) _

HMR, HMV

Series

(VIDEO)

_

_

HMA

Series

(AUDIO)

Terminal

Block

+/-1%

Terminal

Block
+/-1%

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 3

FEATURES/

DESCRIPTION

Signals (Inputs & Outputs)

Analog Video/Sync Input Isolated _
Analog Video/Sync Output _ Buffered/

Analog Audio Output _ Balanced

Technical Specifications

Bandwidth 300/200 MHz 20 kHz
Rise Time/ Fall Time 1.6ns 1.6ns

HMR, HMV

Series

(VIDEO)

HMA

Series

(AUDIO)

Balanced

Enclosure

Material Aluminum
Height (inches) 1.75in (44.4mm)
Width (inches) 17.00in (431.80mm)
Depth (inches) 11.04in (280.42mm)
Weight (pounds) 6.4lbs (3.0kg)
Ship Weight (pounds) 7.8lbs (3.6kg)

Included

Manual x
Rack Mount Brackets x
Power Cord x
Loop Cable x

3

DIAGRAM OF FRONT/BACK PANEL 4

MATRIX SWITCHERS

4

MATRIX SWITCHERS

5

MATRIX SWITCHERS

OUT

OUT

OUT

LOOP CONTROL

APPLICATION DIAGRAM 5

Single Video/Sync module can be used as a

Composite Video or TTL/ECL Matrix Switcher.

Two modules interconnected together can be
used as an S-Video Matrix Switcher.

Three interconnected modules can route any
analog component video signals such as RGsB.

Five interconnected modules would be used for
RGBHV Signals.

A single Audio Module is designed to route a
Balanced Mono Audio signal.

Four interconnected modules would be used for
RGBS signals.

Two Audio modules interconnected can be used
to route Stereo Audio Signals.

The video and audio modules can be combined to
form a Video/Audio matrix.

IN

LOOP CONTROL

IN

LOOP CONTROL

IN

Up to 14 modules can be interconnected and
switched simultaneously as a single matrix system
by using the RJ11 input/output jacks to create a
remote control loop.

6

MATRIX SWITCHERS

INSTALLING YOUR SWITCHER 6

Step 1. Stack together the modules that are

required to form a matrix for switching
the desired signals.

Allow 1-U rack space every 4 units for air
circulation. This will reduce heat build up and
will prolong the life of your system.

16x16 RGBHV + Stereo Audio System
Step 2. Connect the HOMERUN modules

together using the loop control cables
provided with the unit. Always connect
the loop output of the first unit to the
input of the next unit and so on until the
input of the last unit has been
connected.

Step 3. Connect power to all modules with the

power cords provided. The power supply
is universal and will work throughout the
world with voltages between 100V-260V.

Step 4. For video modules, connect cables from

the video sources (computers, VCR,
others) to inputs 1 through 16 and
connect the display devices (i.e.
monitors or projectors) to outputs 1
through 16. For audio modules connect
cables from the audio sources to inputs

1 through 16, and the outputs to audio
receivers.

CAUTION:
All video inputs to HOMERUN Video Modules

are DC coupled for best performance. Even
though the video inputs are fully isolated,
verify with an electrician that all of the
grounding is proper and that GROUND LOOP
problems are minimized. Severe Ground loop
type conditions can damage equipment.

MAXIMUM VIDEO/SYNC INPUT: +/- 5 VOLTS
MAXIMUM AUDIO INPUT: +/- 5 VOLTS

Step 5. If a control system is used to control the

unit connect the RS-232 port to the
control system or an RS-232 card.
Make sure that the transmit pin of the
control system is connected to the
receive pin of the switcher.

RS-232 port of HOMERUN

switcher

XMT ( Transmit) Receive

RCV (Receive) Transmit

GND (Ground) Ground

+12V N/C
Table 1. RS-232 connections of the HOMERUN
Switcher

Figure1: RS-232 Port Terminal Block Connector

Step 6. Turn on the power. After a series of

beeps the unit is now operational. You
should observe lit LED’s on the back
panel and a lit power LED on the front
panel. You are ready to either program
your switcher or perform switching from
the rear panel.

Computer or

Control System

7

Figure 2: HOMERUN Video Module

MATRIX SWITCHERS

seconds until you hear a beeping sound and
release the button. This will disable the selected
output.

RESET SELECTED CHANNELS: Press the F1
& F2 switches simultaneously and release them
quickly to reset the connection of the selected
input & output.

OPERATION 7

7.1 BACK PANEL MANUAL CONTROL

Two switches (F1 and F2) are provided in the
center of the back panel as shown below. During
installation or troubleshooting these switches
provide a simple manner of controlling the
module from the back of the rack.

Figure 3: Back Panel control switches

SELECT INPUT: With the F1 switch, the desired

input is selected by pressing the switch until the
LED of the selected input is lit. As F1 is
repeatedly pressed, the switcher scrolls through
each of the inputs and the corresponding LED is
lit.

SELECT OUTPUT: With the F2 switch, the
desired output is selected by pressing the switch
until the LED of the selected output is lit. As F2 is
repeatedly pressed, the switcher scrolls through
each of the outputs and the corresponding LED
is lit.

CONNECT INPUT to OUTPUT: To connect the
selected input to the selected output, simply hold
either F1 or F2 for 2 seconds until you hear a
beeping sound. This operation can be repeated,
as many times as needed, until all desired inputs
are connected to all desired outputs.

DISABLE SELECTED OUTPUT: Press F1 until
all input LED's are OFF. This occurs when the
input positioned between input 16 and input 1 is
selected. Select the output that you want to
disable and hold F1 or F2 for approximately 2

RESET TO DEFAULT: To reset the unit to its
default status (power-on stage) press and hold
the F1 & F2 switches simultaneously for
approximately three seconds until you hear a
beeping sound. This will disconnect all current
inputs and outputs and load settings stored in
memory location #1. If memory location #1 is
empty it loads the condition where there is no
input is connected to any output.

INITIALIZE MATRIX SIZE AND OFFSET TO
FACTORY DEFAULT: To initialize the matrix

size and offset of the switcher to the factory
default, a POWER ON function must be used
through switch F2. First turn OFF the unit. Then
while pressing down the F2 switch, turn the
power ON for the unit. Wait until several beeps
are heard and then release the F2 switch. This
step will initialize the matrix size to 16x16 and the
offset for both input & output to 0.

This step will not clear the memory or disconnect
the inputs and outputs. This procedure is used
for resetting the switcher to factory matrix and
offset default condition and should not be part of
the program to operate the switcher.

INITIALIZE MEMORY & BAUD RATE TO
FACTORY DEFAULT: To initialize the

connection memory and communication baud
rate, a POWER ON function must be used
through switch F1. To initialize the unit without
changing the size and offset; first turn the unit
OFF. Then while holding down the F1 switch,
turn the unit back ON. Wait until several beeps
are heard before releasing the F1 switch. This
step will disconnect all inputs from outputs, clear
all memories and set the baud rate to 2400 for
RS-232 communication.

This procedure is used to initialize the switcher
and should not be part of the normal program to
operate the switcher.

8

MATRIX SWITCHERS

PRESS FUNCTION

F1

F2

F1+HOLD

F2+HOLD

F1+F2 together
(Press & Release)
F1+F2+HOLD
(Press & Hold)

F1 or F2 + HOLD
(All input LED’s OFF)
F1+HOLD+Power ON

F2+HOLD+Power ON

Table 2. Summary of F1 and F2 functions

7.2 RS-232 CONTROL OF THE SWITCHER

The HOMERUN Matrix Switcher has many
advanced remote control capabilities which are
accessible through a standard RS-232 port
through terminal block connectors provided on
the back of the module. The actual controlling
can be accomplished through a computer,
control system or any other device capable of
sending RS-232 commands.

The function of each pin is described on the back
panel next to the connector. Each module has its
own RS-232 port. However, only one port should
be used to control all units, if they are attached
through loop cables.

Test each module outside of the rack prior to
installation to insure that you have established
communication.

7.2.1 RS-232 PROTOCOL:

The RS-232 protocol for the HOMERUN Matrix
Switcher uses a simple ASCII character format.

Selects input
(confirmed by “ON” LED)
Selects output
(confirmed by “ON” LED)
Connects selected input
to selected output
Connects selected input
to selected output
Resets selected input
and output channels

Resets switcher and
loads memory #1 setting
after a series of beeps
Disconnect selected
output

Initializes baud rate,
input-output connections
and clears memory after
a series of beeps
Initializes matrix size to
16x16 and offset to 00
for input and output

1. Square brackets “[“ & “]” are part of the
command, unless they are changed
through the [CODEn] command.

2. Use uppercase letters for all commands.

3. Make sure that the transmit pin of the
control system is connected to the
receive pin of the switcher and
connection done as per Table 1.

4. Make sure that there is a delay of 50 ms

between two consecutive commands.

The factory default settings are 2400 baud, 8
bits, 1 stop, and no parity. There is no software
or hardware flow control implemented.

The HOMERUN Matrix Switcher requires 50ms
of processing time after each command is
sent. So please keep a 50ms delay between
two consecutive commands except the [RSET]
command, which requires 1 second of
processing time.

Example: [RSET]*, wait 1 second, * [I01O02]*
wait 50ms, *[I12O09]*

The RS-232 input has a 16-character buffer
and will not execute any command longer than
16-characters. Any additional commands are
ignored until the previous command is fully
processed. After processing a valid command
an [OK] string will be returned, if requested by
the feedback command. If an invalid command
is entered the [ERR] string will be returned if
requested by the feedback command.

7.2.2 PROGRAMMING COMMANDS

NOTE:

These programming commands are used for
programming the switcher; they should not be
used as part of a program to operate the
switcher. The programming setting changes
done through these commands are stored in a
non-volatile memory. Typically these
commands can be issued 10,000 times before
the memory needs to be replaced.

[SETIDn]

n = level/module ID number; 0 to 9

9

MATRIX SWITCHERS

This command sets a unique ID number to
each HOMERUN module and allows control of
multiple modules through a single RS-232 port.

In order to control multiple modules
independently with one RS-232 port, the unit ID
is used. Setting the unit ID allows a user to
send the same command to multiple modules,
but the module processes that command with
the indicated ID number only. The factory
default unit ID=1.

Each HOMERUN Matrix Switcher system may
have a different number of levels (modules).
Each level corresponds to an individual
component of the signal. For example, the
RED video signal is considered to be one level
(module) and the BLUE video signal is
considered to be a different level in a RGBHV
matrix switcher.

If red, green and blue signals are switched
individually, then you would set level ID 2 for
red, ID 3 for green and ID 4 for blue. But if you
want red, green and blue signals to switch
simultaneously, then you should set the same
ID for each module.

If the ID level is set to 1 then all units will
always switch regardless of the select level
command issued. From the factory all new
units are shipped with ID number 1. If level ID
is set to 0, then the unit will not respond to any
command other than [SETIDn]. This command
is used for programming the switcher; it should
not be used as part of a program to operate
the switcher.

[BAUDn]

n - 4 2400

- 5 4800

- 6 9600 (used for remote
terminal – CP-02)

Select the baud rate for communication
between the HOMERUN Matrix Switcher and
the Control System or PC.

The default or factory reset baud rate of the
switcher is 2400bps. Hand held remote control
units operate at 9600 baud only.

[CODEn]

n - 1-[ ]

- 2 - ( )

- 3 - { }

- 4 - : ;

- 5 - < >

- 6 - : /

This command is used to allow changes in
command delimiters (start and end codes).
This feature can be properly used only at the
2400 and 4800 baud rates. At 9600 baud, only
n=1 should be used. The factory default is
[CODE1], so each command will start with [
and end with ].

This command is used for programming the
switcher; it should not be used as part of a
program to operate the switcher.

[IkkOmmS]

kk = Total number of inputs; 00 to 96
mm = Total number of outputs; 00 to 96

Set the maximum number of inputs and
outputs used in a particular module/level of the
switcher. This command is used at the factory
at the time of set up.

This command is used for programming the
switcher. It should not be used as a part of a
program to operate the switcher. There is no
feedback provided for this command.

[IkkOmmA]

kk = Input offset number; 00 to 96
mm = Output offset number; 00 to 96

This command defines offset for input and
output. This command is used when the matrix
switcher needs to be expanded to a larger size.
Default is kk=0 and mm=0. For example, if
more than 16 inputs are required, the input
offset of the second switcher is the series set
to 16, so that its inputs start from 17. If more
than 32 inputs are required then the offset is
set to 32 for the next switcher in the series.
The same is applied to the outputs. With this
offset command, matrix switchers can be built
with sizes up to 96x96.

10

MATRIX SWITCHERS

This command is used for programming the
switcher. It should not be used as part of a
program to operate the switcher. There is no
feedback provided for this command.

[IkkOXXS]

kk = input offset; 00 to 96

This command sets the maximum number of
inputs on the HOMERUN Switcher without
changing the maximum number of outputs.
This command will change the default settings
for the unit. This command should be issued
only once. This command is used for
programming the switcher; it should not be
used as part of a program to operate the
switcher. There is no feedback provided for this
command.

[IkkOXXA]

kk = input offset; 00 to 96

This command sets the offset number for
inputs. It is used when multiple switchers are
connected to form a larger matrix. The default
is kk=0. For example, if two switchers are used
to form a 32 by 16 matrix, the first switcher will
have input addresses of 01 to 16 and the
second switcher needs to have input
addresses from 17 to 32 for a continuous
addressing range. This command will provide
an offset of 17 for the input and then the
second switcher can be addressed by using
standard I/O commands like [I18O12],
[I17O05] or [I31O16].

This command is used for programming the
switcher; it should not be used as part of a
program to operate the switcher. There is no
feedback provided for this command.

[IXXOmmS]

mm = output number; 00 to 16

This command sets the maximum number of
outputs on the HOMERUN Switcher without
changing the maximum number of inputs. This
command will change the default (power-on
and after reset) setting of 16 for the switch.
This command should be issued only once.
This command is used for programming the

switcher; it should not be used as part of a
program to operate the switcher. There is no
feedback provided for this command.

[IXXOmmA]

mm = output offset; 00 to 96

This command sets the offset number for
outputs. It is used when multiple switchers are
connected to form a larger matrix. The default
is mm=0. For example, if two switchers are
used to form a 32 by 16 matrix, the first
switcher will have output addresses of 01 to 16
and the second switcher will have output
addresses from 17 to 32 for a continuous
addressing range. This command will provide
an offset of 17 for the output and then the
second switcher can be addressed by using
standard I/O commands like [I13O18],
[I12O24] or [I04O32].

This command is used for programming the
switcher; it should not be used as part of a
program to operate the switcher. There is no
feedback provided for this command.

[IkkOnnL]

nn - loop offset number 00 to 16
kk - do not care (any number for 00 to 99)

this number is not checked

This command defines loop offset for the
switcher. This command is used when looping
several switchers together to increase the
number of inputs. First make sure that number
of outputs is the same on all units and the
output offset is set to zero. Then set the input
offset the same as the number of the last input
of previous unit. Then use [IkkOnnL] command
to set up a loop parameter. After this command
is issued, looped units can be controlled by a
single command [IxxOyy] where xx is any
number from 01 to 99. Without the loop
command, units can be controlled with the
[IxxOyy] command but several commands will
be sent with some delay between two
consecutive commands. To avoid problems,
make sure that these steps are taken:

1. The number of outputs must be the same
on all units used in the loop.

11

MATRIX SWITCHERS

110V

Maximum power 35W

110V

OUT

2. Output offset is zero for both units.

3. The input offset must be set for all units
except the first one. The offset for input
should be the same as the last input
number of the previous unit.

4. The number of inputs available on second
unit for direct connection is the difference
between the maximum number of inputs of
the second unit, and the number of looped
outputs.

5. Set the loop offset separately for each unit.
The loop offset is zero for the first unit. For
other units it is the number of outputs of the
previous unit.

Example: If one wants to create a 28x4
switcher, there is a need for 2 16x4 HOMERUN
Switchers. Connect output 1 through 4 of the
first unit to the last four inputs of a second unit
in increasing order. Please program the
switcher using the following table:

PARAMETER UNIT A UNIT B

Size [I16O04S] [I16O04S]
Offset [I00O00A] [I16O00A]
Loop Command [I00O00L] [I00O04L]

Now if you send the commands as follows, the
active connectors will be as follows on both
units:

COMMAND UNIT A

Connection

UNIT B

Connection

[I02O02] 2 – 2 14 – 2
[I09O04] 9 – 4 16 - 4
[I16O04] 16 - 4 16 – 4
[I17O01] NONE – 1 1 – 1
[I28O04] NONE – 4 12 – 4

[I29O03] NONE – 3 NONE – 3
[RSET] - Reset Switcher
This command initializes all outputs (clears all

current connections of inputs to outputs), and
recalls memory #1 to switch appropriate inputs

to outputs, as saved in memory position #1.
There is no feedback provided, but the unit will
beep after execution of this command. This
command is the equivalent of turning ON the
unit.

INPUT 9INPUT 3INPUT 11INPUT 5 INPUT 13INPUT 7 INPUT 15

OUTPUT 2OUTPUT 4

F1 F2

OUTPUT 1OUTPUT 3

ID NUMBER

ID1ID2ID3ID4

INPUT 2INPUT 10INPUT 4 INPUT 12INPUT 6 INPUT 14INPUT 8 INPUT 16

INPUT 1

Input 1 - 16

A B

16 x 4
HOMERUN

Physical connection by cable

Maximum power 35W

+12V
GND
RCV

IN OUT
LOOP CONTROL

XMT

RS-232

100-240V 50/60Hz

INPUT 2INPUT 10INPUT 4 INPUT 12INPUT 6 INPUT 14INPUT 8 INPUT 16

INPUT 1

Input 17 - 28

INPUT 9INPUT 3INPUT 11INPUT 5 INPUT 13INPUT 7 INPUT 15

OUTPUT 2OUTPUT 4

F1 F2

OUTPUT 1OUTPUT 3

ID NUMBER

ID1ID2ID3ID4

Output 1 - 4

16 x 4
HOMERUN

[RSETD] – Default Reset switcher
This command initializes all functions, clears all

memories, sets baud rate to 2400, sets the
number of input/outputs to 16, resets offset to
00, and recalls memory #1 to switch the
appropriate inputs to outputs. There is no RS­232 command feedback provided, but the unit
beeps after execution of this command. This
command resets the HOMERUN Switcher to
the same as the factory condition.

[RSETC] - Configuration Reset of switcher
This command initializes only the number of

inputs to outputs and offset to factory condition
default. There is no RS-232 command
feedback provided, but the unit beeps until this
command is executed.

[RSETS] - System Reset switcher
This command initializes everything except the

number of inputs, outputs and the offset. This
command initializes all functions, clears current
input to output connections changes baud rate
to 2400bps and clears all current memories.
There is no feedback provided, but the unit
beeps until this command is executed.

[VERN] – Version
This command provides the current version of

the firmware used in connected switchers.
There is no need to add an F at the end of the
command. There is no feedback of [OK] or

+12V
GND

IN

RCV

LOOP CONTROL

XMT

RS-232

100-240V 50/60Hz

12

[ERR], just the version number; for example
[3.2] or [3.5].

[VISn]

n = 1 Enable VIS
n = 0 Disable VIS

This command enables or disables vertical
interval switching, if the option is installed on
the HOMERUN Matrix Switcher.

MATRIX SWITCHERS

7.2.3 CONTROL COMMANDS

These control commands are used for
controlling the switcher. They can be part of a
normal program to operate the switcher. These
command actions are lost if power is
disconnected from the unit, or if the unit is
reset in any way.

[xxxxxF] - Send feedback.
Adding F at the end of any command will

provide feedback in the form of [OK] or [ERR].
Otherwise there will be no feedback, except
with the [VERN] command.

[UIDn]

n = Unit ID number. It could be any

number from 1 to 9.

This command sets the unit ID number. A total
of up to 10 unit ID’s can be assigned to
HOMERUN modules, using ASCII code, for
individual control of each unit. Additional units
can be controlled using hex codes.

If n=1, the switcher listens to all commands. If
n=0, the switcher does not listen to any
command.

Table 3 provides the relation between the Unit
ID number and the LED’s on the back panel of
the unit. In other words, once an ID number is
assigned to any module through an RS-232
command or the Front Panel, this module can
be identified by the illuminated LED’s located
on the back panel switcher.

UNIT ID - n ID NUMBER LED’s

ID1 ID2 ID3 ID4

0 off off off off
1 on off off off
2 off on off off
3 on on off off
4 off off on off
5 on off on off
6 off on on off
7 on on on off
8 off off off on
9 on off off on

Table 3 Unit ID LED's of Back Panel

The Unit ID command will allow only units with
the same ID number to respond to any
RS–232 commands. This command allows
independent switching of various modules.

When independent switching of various
modules is required first issue the [UID1]
command to make all modules respond to
common commands. Then issue different
[UIDn] commands to each group of switchers
to communicate with particular modules. The
[UIDn] command only should be issued once
prior to communicating with the individual
modules.

[UIDnE]

n = Unit ID number 2 to 9

This command selects the exclusive switcher
level to control. The level is controlled based
on the Unit ID number-n. The default during
power-on is set to Unit ID 1 regardless of the
actual ID number on the unit. This means that
all units (levels) will be controlled
simultaneously after power on. This command
disables all units except the one in the

13

MATRIX SWITCHERS

command. The [UIDnE] command should be
used to disable all levels and enable only the
unit that needs to be controlled. This command
can not be used with unit ID 0 or 1.

For example, at power up, all units can be
controlled. To control level 3 only, issue the
command - [UID3E].

[IkkOmm]

kk = input number 01 to 16
mm = output number 01 to 16

This command connects the specified input to
outputs and switches them immediately.

For example, if you want to connect input 2 to
output 11 and switch, type [I02O11]. If input
number 00 is used, that input is disconnected
from the selected output. The connection stays
active until those particular inputs or outputs
are disabled or the unit is reset.

[IkkOmmP]

xx = input number 01 to 16
mm = output number 01 to 16
P = path

This command loads input to output
connections, but does not switch. Through this
command input to output connections are
loaded (path is set), but not switched until a
[SW] command or a direct connection
command of [IxxOmm] is sent. This command
is used to select multiple inputs and multiple
outputs without switching. This is a very useful
command for scene or salvo switching. If input
number 00 is used that input is disconnected
from the selected output

For example, If you want to connect input 2 to
output 11 and do not switch, type [I02O11P]

[IkkOmmUn]

kk = Input number 01 to 16
mm = Output number 01 to 16
n = Unit ID# (n=2 to 9)

This command allows any input to be
connected individually to any output within the
HOMERUN module with a specific Unit ID. For

example, in a RGBHV + Mono Audio
combination where RGB = Unit ID2, HV = Unit
ID3, and Mono Audio = Unit ID4, the
[I12O10U2] command will connect input 12 to
output 10 on RGB units and not on HV or audio
modules. [I03O10U4] will connect input 3 to
output 10 on audio modules and not on
RGBHV units.

If n = 1, units will respond to any command. If
n= 0, then none of the units will respond to any
issued command.

[IkkOmmUnP]

kk = Input number 01 to 16
mm = Output number 01 to 16
n = unit ID# (n=2 to 9)
P = path

This command allows any input to be
connected to any output on a particular
module, but not switched. For example, in an
RGBHV + Mono Audio combination where
RGB = Unit ID2, HV = Unit ID3, and Mono
Audio = Unit ID4, by putting n=3, one can
easily load H&V signals only for switching or by
using n=4 one can easily load only audio for
switching. No switching take places until any of
the switch [SW] or [IxxOmm] or [IxxOmmUn]
commands are received. This command is very
helpful in large matrix systems or when using
PC based software.

If n = 1, units will respond to any command and
if n= 0, then none of the units will respond to
any issued command.

[IkkOXX]

kk =specific input to be controlled

01-16

This command selects the input to control.
Once the input number to be controlled is set
by this command, that input can be connected
to multiple outputs through the connect
command, [IXXOmmC].

[IXXOmm]

mm = output number 00 to 16

14

MATRIX SWITCHERS

This command selects the output to control.
Once the output number to be controlled is set
through this command, this output can be
connected to several inputs. If output 00 is
selected then disconnect all inputs to be
specified through the connect command,

[IkkOXXC].
[IkkOXXC]

kk = input number 01 to 16

This command connects a specified input to
the previously selected output through the
[IXXOmm] command. A set of these
commands will allow switching different inputs
to a previously fixed output. For example, the
sequence of commands would be:

[IXXO05][I06OXXC][I09OXXC][I12OXXC],
which means that output 5 is first selected and
then connected to input 6, 9, and12.

[IXXOmmC]

mm = output number 00 to 16

This command connects a specified output to a
previously selected input through the [IkkOXX]
command. This command fixes the specific
input. A set of these commands will allow
switching different outputs to a previously fixed
input. For example, the sequence of
commands would be as follows:

[I03OXX][IXXO06C][IXXO09C][IXXO12C],
which means that input 3 is first selected and
then connected to outputs 6,9 and 12.

[CAnnxxkkpp…zz]

Connect All. Connect any of the 16 inputs to
any of the 16 outputs. The “CA Switch All”
command is used to make a quick switch of all
inputs and outputs. The position identifies
output number and the value identifies the
input number. The input number can be from
01-16. Value X can be used if no switching is
required for a specific output. If 00 is used, it
disconnects that output. For an 8x8
HOMERUN Switcher, connect will have all 16
position but positions, 9 through 16 will have
either XX or 00

For example, to connect input 2 to 3, 8 to 10 &
leave other outputs as the same as the
command will be issued as follows,
[CAXXXX02XXXXXXXX02XX02XXXXXXXXX
XXX]. To connect input 1,4,6,9, and 12 to the
same numbered outputs (1-1, 4-4, 6-6, 9-9, 12-

12) and ignore all other connections the
command will be issued as follows
[CA01XXXX04XX06XXXX09XXXX12
XXXXXXXX]. If you want to connect input 1, 4,
6, 9 & 12 to same outputs but disconnect other
outputs, then the command issued will be:
[CA01000004000600000900001200000000]

[IXXOXXX]

This command provides feedback on all
connections. The feedback is in the form of 16
2-byte ASCII characters. This can be used to
determine the current status of the switcher.

The feedback format is as follows:
xxnnxxnnxxnnxxnnxxnnxxnnxxnnxxnn. The
position determines the output and the number
shows the input that is connected to this
output. If the HOMERUN Matrix Switcher is 8x8
then the feedback of only the first 8 outputs will
be provided, others will be 00.

[IkkOXXX]

kk = specific input number; 01 to 16

This command is used to get information from
the switcher on the current connection of the
specified input. The return string identifies
which output is connected to the specified
input. The return string is a multiple of mm,
where mm is the current output connected to
the specified input. For example, [I02OXXX]
can return 030104, which means outputs 3, 1,
4 are connected to input2. [I04OXXX] can
return 00, which means there is nothing
connected to Input4.

[IXXOmmX]

mm = output number 00 to 16

This command is used to get information from
the switcher on the current connection of the
specified output. The return string identifies
which input is connected to the specified
output. The return string is a multiple of mm,

15

where mm is the current input connected to the
specified output.

For example, the [IXXO02] command can
return 04 indicating that input #4 is currently
connected to output #2. [IXXO03] can return
00, which means that nothing is currently
connected to output #3.

[SW] - Switch
The switch command immediately connects

inputs and outputs simultaneously which are
previously set with the path command.

This command initiates the switching sequence
of the [IxxOmmP] or [IxxOmmUnP]
commands.

[SAVnn] - Save Memory.

nn = memory to save 00-16

The HOMERUN Switcher contains 16
memories. Each memory is capable of storing
one preset (scenes or salvos). The preset
(scenes or salvos) can consist of a group of
connections between different inputs and
outputs. These memories can be saved using
the Front panel, a remote control panel or
through RS-232 commands. For example,
[SAV12] command will save current input to
output connections in memory space #12.

[RCLnn] - Recall Memory.

nn = memory to recall 00-16

The HOMERUN Switcher is capable of storing
one preset (scene or salvo) per each of 16
memory locations. The preset (scene or salvo)
consists of a group of connections between
different inputs and outputs. The preset of
connections stored in each memory can be
recalled using the front panel, a remote control
panel, or through RS-232 commands.

7.3 FRONT PANEL OPERATION
CP-01 HOMERUN Front Panel (OPTIONAL)

MATRIX SWITCHERS

CONTROL OPERATION

Connect any input to any output:

Press the desired input, 1 through 16. The input
LED will flash slowly. The LED on the outputs
that are already connected to the selected input
will flash quickly. The outputs that are not
connected to the selected input will have LED
OFF. Press the desired output 1 through 16.
Input and output LED’s will remain ON showing
the current connections.

Input to output order must always be followed.
First, press the input button and then press the
output button. If the unit has only 8 outputs
installed, the output buttons above 8 will not be
operational.

Disconnect any input from any output:
Press the desired input button on the front panel.

The outputs that are connected to this input will
have its LED flashing quickly, so select the
desired output that should be disconnected and
press that output button.

Save current configuration

Press any input button, 1 through 16, and hold it
for 2 seconds to save current input to output
connections into any of the 16 memory locations
of the HOMERUN Matrix Switcher.

The unit will beep and the switcher status
(current input to output connections) will be
saved. Memory #1 is always recalled during
power-up or during the reset. This sequence only
saves the configuration of the switches. It does
not save any system variables like baud rate,
Unit ID number, etc.

Recall saved memory:

When the RECALL button is pressed, all input
LED’s will flash quickly, indicating that an action
is required from the operator. Press INPUT 1
through INPUT 16 to recall a selected memory
location, 1 through 16.

Pressing 1 will make the input to output
connections the same as during Power ON.

16

One button operation of the recall function:

MATRIX SWITCHERS

Press the RECALL button and hold for 2
seconds. The unit will beep and switch into the
recall mode. This mode is indicated by the
RECALL LED flashing slowly. Press INPUT 1
through INPUT 16 to recall the desired memory
location. Output buttons do not work anymore in
this operation.

Press and hold the RECALL button for 2 sec.
again to disable the recall function.

Disable/Enable Front Panel:

Press the OUT SEL button and hold it for 2
seconds. The front panel will be disabled. Press
and hold it again to enable the front panel.

Preview of Connection

When any output is selected through the Front
Panel CP-01 buttons, the input/inputs that are
connected to that particular output will show its
LED ON. Similarly if any input is selected on the
Front Panel CP-01, then the output to outputs
connected to this input will show a flashing LED.

PROGRAMMING OPERATION

This programming operation is only performed
for changing module settings and should not be
part of a general control operation. All the
HOMERUN modules that are connected through
a loop cable to the HOMERUN Switcher module
with a CP-01 Front Panel will be reprogrammed.

Enable Vertical interval switching:

This function operates only if the VIS function is
installed. Press the SETUP button. The SETUP
LED will start to flash. Press OUT 7 to enable the
VIS function. The VIS function operates only with
NTSC or PAL type video signals. Input #1 is the
reference input for the purposes of VIS
switching. If Input #1 is not present the
HOMERUN will switch without VIS even though
VIS is enabled.

Disable vertical interval switching:

This function operates only if the VIS function is
installed. Press the SETUP button. The SETUP
LED will start to flash. Press OUT 8 to disable
the VIS function.

Set Unit ID numbers

This function is used to control individual levels
of the HOMERUN Matrix Switcher, such as
switching video and audio separately. If the
HOMERUN Switcher is set to unit ID 1 then the
switcher will respond to all commands through
the RS-232 port regardless of the UID command.
The factory default is unit ID =1.

To set the unit ID number, press the SETUP
button. The SETUP LED will start to flash. Press
the OUT1 through OUT6 buttons to select the
proper unit ID number. The switcher will reset
after this operation.

This command will set unit ID numbers on the
master unit and also on all units attached to the
master unit.

Therefore only the units that need to have
changes in unit ID number should be attached to
the master unit during the set-up phase through
the loop cable.

Suggested Unit ID assignment if individual
control is required:

Unit ID 2 Red, Green and Blue channels (All

three channels should have the
same Unit ID number)

Unit ID 3 Horizontal, Vertical or Composite

sync channels (All sync channels
should have the same Unit ID

number)
Unit ID 4 Composite video signal channel
Unit ID 5 S-Video type video signal channels

(Both Luma and Chroma should

have the same Unit ID numbers)
Unit ID 6 Left and right audio channels should

have the same Unit ID numbers.

SETUP +OUT 1 UNIT ID #1
SETUP +OUT 2 UNIT ID #2
SETUP +OUT 3 UNIT ID #3
SETUP +OUT 4 UNIT ID #4
SETUP +OUT 5 UNIT ID #5

17

SETUP +OUT 6 UNIT ID #6

MATRIX SWITCHERS

Set Baud Rate:

Baud rate determines communication between
the control system and HOMERUN Matrix
Switchers and also the rate between individual
modules of the HOMERUN. Setting all
interconnected modules to the same baud rate is
essential for proper operation of the complete
system.

It is recommended that baud rate is changed for
all modules when the HOMERUN Switcher’s
modules are connected together. For example if
the Red, Green, Blue and Sync modules are
connected together, then the baud rate is
changed to affect all 4 modules at the same
time.

To set Baud Rate number, press the SETUP
button. The SETUP LED will start to flash.
OUTPUT 1 through 16 LED’s will show current
status of the switcher. Press OUT 9 through
OUT 11 to select the desired baud rate. The unit
will beep to confirm your selection.

SETUP +OUT 9 2400 bps
SETUP +OUT 10 4800 bps
SETUP +OUT 11 9600 bps

7.4 CP-02 REMOTE TERMINAL CONTROL
Remote Terminal Operation

Before you Begin:

The HOMERUN Matrix Switcher must be set to
operate at 9600 baud (the default setting is 2400
baud). This is the baud rate at which the Remote
Terminal communicates with the HOMERUN
Switcher. The baud rate of the HOMERUN
Switcher can be set to 9600-baud through a
computer, a Windows Hyper Terminal program
or through HOMERUN Control Video software by
designed by Altinex.

WINDOWS HYPER TERMINAL PROGRAM:

1. Connect the computer communication port

(COM1, COM2), found on the back of your
computer (It will be either a 9-pin D or 25-pin
D connector) to the RS-232 port of the
HOMERUN Matrix Switcher as per Table 1.

Turn Power ON for all connected
HOMERUN modules.

2. Go to Accessories in Windows 95 and select
Hyper Terminal.

3. Select PROPERTIES from the FILE menu.

4. Select desired communications port, e.g.
COM1, COM2.

5. Click on the PORT SETTINGS/
CONFIGURE button and a new window for
the COM port’s properties will pop-up.

6. Select the following settings:
Bits per second: 2400
Data bits: 8
Parity: None
Stop bits: 1
Flow control: None

7. Select OK button.

8. Select Setting, Tab.
Set the Hyper Terminal to VT100 emulation.
Set back scroll buffer lines to 500.

9. Select the OK button.
Select the call option from CALL menu. You
are now ready to change the baud rate of
the HOMERUN unit.

10. Type following command to set the
HOMERUN baud rate: [BAUD6F]. Now by
pressing RETURN key, command is
executed and the unit will respond with a
beep and [OK]. If there is no beep the unit
has not accepted the command. Keep in
mind that once the command is accepted, to
continue to communicate with the Homerun
computer, the COM port needs to be
configured to communicate at a 9600-baud
rate.

11 After the baud rate has been changed,

disconnect the RS-232 cable between the
terminal block on the back of the
HOMERUN switcher and the computer.

12 Using the special cable supplied by Altinex,

make sure the 9 Pin D connector is securely
fastened to the CP-02 terminal. The other

18

MATRIX SWITCHERS

end of the cable is connected to the RS-232
port of the HOMERUN Matrix Switcher.

ALTINEX HOMERUN CONTROL PROGRAM

1 Follow Step 1 of previous option.

2. Load the HOMERUN control program on
WINDOW 95 from the START UP button,
PROGRAM option and Altinex tab.

3 Go to the SETUP TAB and verify that

current baud rate is set at 2400 baud
(default). Then from SET Baud Rate section
select 9600 baud and click the program
button to program the baud rate into all
attached HOMERUN modules.

Note: The HOMERUN Control Software can be
downloaded from the Altinex website

www.altinex.com in the Download section.

CP-02

DB-9 pin

connector

1 Power
2 Receive Transmit

3 Transmit Receive

5 (short

to 6)

6 (short

to 5)

7 Signal
8 Power Input
9 Power Input

Table 4. CP-02 pin outs and connection to

HOMERUN Switcher

Terminal Set-up

Signal

description

Ground

CTS (short

to pin 6)

DTR (short

to pin 5)

Ground

(+5V)

(8-12V

regulated)

Connection to

HOMERUN Switcher’s

RS-232 port

Ground

-

-

Ground

-

+12V

VW=7

VW set LCD viewing angle 0 through 7
TM terminal mode 0
TD turnaround delay 0
BR baud rate 2
DF data format 4
HS handshake 0
LE local echo 0
EN line terminator 1
KC key click 0
KR key repeat 0
CU cursor 0
To save changes Press Recall 01.

The OK message will be displayed on the screen
for 1 second.

1. Turn power to the HOMERUN OFF and
back ON. Press the ENTER key.

2. The display will read: Altinex, Inc. 3.2 or the
current software version.

Congratulations! Your CP-02 terminal set up is
completed!

A. Power ON:

Turn ON the power to the HOMERUN by
plugging in the power cord.

Observe the CP-02 going into self-test mode for
about 5-6 seconds.

The display will flash the following message:

Vol 1. Test OK

The CP-02 remote terminal is now ready to
control the HOMERUN Matrix Switcher.

The CP-02 remote terminal must be properly set
up before it will operate with the HOMERUN
Matrix switcher. To set up the terminal, turn
power “ON” while holding the (•) period button on
the keypad, and the terminal will enter into set-up
mode. The high contrast liquid crystal display
will briefly flash the following message:

B. Function Keys description:

CONNECT Allows user to make

connections between inputs
and outputs.

SAVE Permits the connections

between inputs and outputs

19

to be saved in any of the 16
available memories.

MATRIX SWITCHERS

SAVE?

RECALL Allows recalling the saved

connections from memory
01 through 16.

SPACE Reserved for future use.
DELETE Reserved for future use.
CLEAR Reserved for future use.
Recall 01,02,03 Allows the end user to recall

the first three settings by
pressing just one button.

ENTER To complete and execute a

command.

C. Making Connections:

Making connections with the CP-02 remote
terminal is really quite simple.

1. Press the CONNECT key. IN? will appear
on LCD display.

IN:?

2. Enter a two digit INPUT number. For
example: to connect input 5, enter: 05 IN: 05

OUT? will appear on the display.

IN:05 OUT?

3. Enter a two-digit OUTPUT number. For
example: to connect output 11, enter 11

OUT: 11 will appear on the screen.

IN:05 OUT:11

4. Press the CONNECT key again to enter the

next connection.

5. Continue this process until all connections
are made.

D. Saving Your Settings:

The CP-02 remote terminal has 16 memories
that can store preset configurations. To save
your settings use the SAVE key.

1. Press the SAVE key. SAVE? will appear on
the LCD display.

2. Type in a two-digit memory number in which
the setting is to be stored. Memories
available are 01 through 16.

SAVE? 05

E. Recalling Your Settings:

There are two ways to recall your settings: Quick
Recall and Standard Recall. Quick Recall is
available for the first three stored configurations.
The recall is accomplished by simply pressing
the Recall 01, Recall 02 or Recall 03 keys.

1. Press Recall 01 to recall setting stored in
memory 01

2. Press Recall 02 to recall setting stored in
memory 02

3. Press Recall 03 to recall setting stored in
memory 03

Standard Recall is accomplished by pressing the
RECALL key and entering a memory number in
which a particular setting was stored.

1. Press the RECALL key. RECALL? will
appear on LCD display

RECALL?

2. Enter a two-digit memory number from
which the setting is to be recalled.

RECALL? 05

3. Press the ENTER key.

Note that when the recall function is used,
because the settings can include multiple
connections, the LED’s on the back of the
HOMERUN will not reflect the connections
recalled by the memory, but rather the last
connection made.

7.5 WINDOWS BASED CONTROL SOFTWARE

This software is available from Altinex website at

www.altinex.com, in the Download section.

20

MATRIX SWITCHERS

ACCESSORIES 8

Model No. Description

RACK MOUNTING BRACKETS

DA1292RM

TM1277

CB4100MR
CB4106MR
CB4112MR
CB4125MR
CB4150MR
CB4175MR
CB41100MR

CB4200MR
CB4206MR
CB4212MR
CB4225MR
CB4250MR
CB4275MR
CB42100MR

CB4300MR

CB4400MR

CP-01
CP-02
CP-03

19”-1U Rack mount ears for rack
wide units

TABLE MOUNT BRACKETS

3U High, 1 Rack-Wide

4 BNC TO 4 BNC COAXIAL CABLE

Bulk cable 4 coaxes (500 ft minimum)
6 feet
12 feet
25 feet
50 feet
75 feet
100 feet

5 BNC TO 5 BNC COAXIAL CABLE

Bulk cable 4 coaxes (500 ft minimum)
6 feet
12 feet
25 feet
50 feet
75 feet
100 feet

4 BNC TO 4 BNC COAX (Super
High Res.)

Bulk cable 4 coaxes (500 ft minimum)

5 BNC TO 5 BNC COAX (Super
High Res.)

Bulk cable 5 coaxes (500 ft minimum)

OPTIONAL CONTROL
ACCESSORIES

Front Panel control
Remote control pad w/cable
Touch screen LCD Display control

panel w/cable

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) 9

No: Question Answer

How do I know

1

what input is
connected to
what output?

This information must be
maintained by the control
system. The present
version of the software
does not track that
information.

21

My modules do

2

not
communicate
with each
other?

Can I control

3

multiple
switchers with
one RS-232
card?

Does the

4

HOMERUN

come with the
rack mounts?

How does one

5

increase the
number of
inputs or
number of
outputs on the
switcher?

Can I switch

6

each module
independently?

If I need to use

7

a switcher to
switch
RGBHV,
Composite
Video, S-Video
and/or Audio

When you experience lack
of communication check
the following:

1. Cable connections.

2. Unit ID settings.

3. Same Baud rate
settings.

Yes. You can control up to
14 different groups of
switchers. Just connect the
Loop out port to the next
switcher’s Loop in port
using provided cables.

Yes, two 1-U high rack
mounts are included with
each module. Please
check the packaging
carefully.

To increase the number of
inputs one can add second
switcher and loop some of
the outputs (say 8) of the
first switcher to the 8
inputs of the second
switcher, thus creating a
24x8 Matrix Switcher. To
increase the number of
outputs use a second
switcher and a VA6834FC
interface with dual output,
or 1 in 2 out DA at each of
the inputs. This will
increase the matrix size to
16x32. For other
configurations call Altinex.

Yes. Using proper RS-232
commands, one can
control each level of
switching independently by
assigning a unique ID
number

Yes, the HOMERUN
Switcher can switch
RGBHV, Composite Video,
S-Video and/or Audio at
the same time.

Contact Altinex if you have

MATRIX SWITCHERS

at the same
time, can this
be done with
this product?

Can I use

8

contact closure
to control the
switcher?

Is the

9

HOMERUN

Switcher
capable of
controlling
various
projectors?

a challenge to connect.

No. The unit should be
controlled using RS-232
commands or through the
optional

CP-01/CP-02/CP-03

It is not recommended in
large size systems to
control a projector through
the switcher. It is expected
that a control system is
available to control both
switcher and projector or
projectors independently. If
a control system is not
being used, the switcher
can be connected to the
projector and control
commands can be passed
through the switcher to the
projector. Call Altinex for
programming information.

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE 10

• First, make sure, that power is connected into
the power input connector and input power is
within the range of 90-260 VAC.

• Make sure that cables are connected properly
and snugly. Please immediately replace any
defective or damaged cables.

• If an RS-232 connection is used to control the
HOMERUN Switcher, then please make sure
that the connection to each pin of the RS-232
port located on the back of the unit is described
in Table 1.

• In the Video module please make sure that the
Input level of the Video signal RGB is 1.2 V p-p.
In the Audio module the Input level of the Audio
signal is 5 V p-p.

• If the RS-232 control, or Front Panel CP-01, or
Touch LCD CP-03 control is not working or
responding, please verify that the unit works
through Back Panel switches F1 and F2. If the
HOMERUN Switcher is working properly
through the Back panel, please verify that
control cable connections are connected to the
control system, and sources and displays are
properly connected.

• If a control system is used to control the
switcher through an RS-232 port, make sure
that, there is at least a 50 ms delay between two
adjacent commands being sent. Also make sure
that all commands have a Square bracket ‘[‘
before and “]” after each command.

• Please verify that the correct ID number is
assigned to each unit. If a particular group of
modules needs to be controlled then the unit ID
number must be same for all the modules in
that group. Unit ID number 0 will have the
HOMERUN Switcher unit not respond to any
command, while unit ID number 1 in the
command will have all units follow the
command.

• If you are using RS-232 control for this unit,

please follow connection instructions as
described in the manual and verify operation
with the downloaded software for PC’s from the

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MATRIX SWITCHERS

DOWNLOAD section from the Altinex website

www.altinex.com.

ALTINEX POLICY 11

11.1 LIMITED WARRANTY

Altinex warrants that its products and cables are
free from defects in materials under normal use
and service. This warranty is limited to repairing
at company’s factory any part or parts of the
product, which upon company’s examination
shall disclose to be, thus defective. Products
considered defective should be returned to
company with transportation charges prepaid
within 2 years (90 days for cables) from date of
shipment to the purchaser. The warranty is
expressly instead of all other warranties
expressed or implied. Altinex neither assumes
nor authorizes any other person to assume for it
any other liability in connection with the sale of
the products. This warranty shall not apply to any
product that shall have been repaired or altered
outside of company’s factory in any way so as, in
its judgment, to affect its stability or reliability, or
that has been subject to misuse, negligence or
accident.

returned without an RMA number may
experience a delay in service.

If your product is out of warranty and needs
service, contact the Altinex Sales Department for
an RMA (Return Material Authorization).
Products returned without an RMA number may
experience a delay in service. The service
charges will be quoted to you before actual
repairs are done.

11.3 CONTACT INFORMATION

Sales Department

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

Accounting Department

Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]

11.2 RETURN POLICY

It is very important to Altinex that you receive
products that you have ordered and that this
product fulfills your need. In the unlikely event
that an Altinex product needs to be returned
please follow the policies below:

Altinex will accept product returns for a period of
30 days from authorized Altinex dealers.
Products must be returned in an unopened
package.

If the product has been opened, the restocking
fees will apply. For the restocking fee amount,
please contact an Altinex Sales Representative.

If the product is in your possession for more than
30 days, the restocking fees will apply.

Altinex will not accept any returns on cables or
custom products.

If your product is in warranty and needs service,
contact the Altinex Sales Department for an RMA
(Return Material Authorization). Products

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