Audio Authority HCX-11 User Manual

COAX INPUT

Five-Coax Extender • Model HCX-11

800-322-8346 • 859-233-4599 • www.audioauthority.com

POWER

EXT- INT LINK

HDMI

OUTPUT

12V DC

POWER

INTERNAL

POWER

TMDS

CLOCK

TMDS

B

TMDS

G

TMDS

R

INTERNAL

POWER

TMDS

CLOCK

TMDS

B

TMDS

G

TMDS

R

COAX OUTPUT

Five-Coax Extender • Model HCX-11

800-322-8346 • 859-233-4599 • www.audioauthority.com

LINK

HDMI

INPUT

12V DC

POWER

User Manual

Model HCX-11

HDMI Coax Extender

2

WARNINGS

• Read these instructions before installing or using this product.

• To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this unit to rain or mois­ture.

• This product must be installed by qualified personnel.

• Do not open the cover—there are no user-serviceable parts inside.

• Do not expose this unit to excessive heat.

• Install only in dry, indoor locations.

• Clean the unit only with a dry or slightly dampened soft cloth.

LIABILITY STATEMENT

Every effort has been made to ensure that this product is free of defects. Audio
Authority cannot be held liable for the use of this hardware or any direct or indirect
consequential damages arising from its use. It is the responsibility of the user of the
hardware to check that it is suitable for his/her requirements and that it is installed
correctly. All rights are reserved. No parts of this manual may be reproduced or
transmitted by any form or means electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
recording or by any information storage or retrieval system without the written
consent of the publisher.

Audio Authority reserves the right to revise any of its hardware and software
following its policy to modify and/or improve its products where necessary or
desirable.

Audio Authority and the Double-A Symbol are registered trademarks of Audio
Authority Corp. Copyright February, 2009. All third party trademarks and copyrights
are recognized.

3

Table Of Contents

1.0 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

2.0 Getting the Best Results

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

3.0 Checking Package Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

4.0 Installation

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

5.0 Connecting the Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

6.0 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

7.0 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

8.0 Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10

9.0 Regulatory Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11

10.0 Contact Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11

Model HCX-11

HDMI Coax Extender

4

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing this HDMI extender from Audio Authority. This
transmitter/receiver unit is designed to extend HDMI version 1.3 signals to
remote locations over five coaxial cables, with power for the receiver from the
transmitter unit via the fifth cable. For long distances, a power supply may be
connected to the receiver. The HCX-11 is capable of high-bandwidth formats
including 1080p, 36* bit Deep Color, and lossless audio. The coaxial jacks accept
secure, BNC type terminations.

Audio Authority offers an extensive line of audio and video switchers, converters,
distribution amps and extenders available for purchase online at www.
audioauthority.com or through authorized dealers.

1.1 FEATURES

• Maximum cable length is 325 feet for 1080p with 24* bit color

• Maximum cable length is 245 feet for 1080p with 36* bit color

• Receiver can be powered from the transmitter’s power supply**

• Only four coaxial cables are required when receiver is externally powered

• Requires high quality RG6 or RG59 coaxial cables with BNC terminations

• HDTV resolutions: 480i through 1080p @ 60Hz

• Locking power connector ensures system stability

2.0 GETTING THE BEST RESULTS

Many factors influence the quality and reliability of HDMI signal transmission. The
following are the main factors to consider, and basic precautions that will ensure
the best possible performance.

• Source resolution and video/sound quality. Sources, such as satellite
receivers or cable boxes may output at low resolutions or deliver extremely
compressed video material, yielding poor results. Consider the sources when
planning and troubleshooting your system.

• Output display devices. The quality of the output signal depends largely upon
the type and quality of the HDMI display devices used.

• HDMI cable length. Use of high resolutions, refresh rate, or Deep Color
increases the bandwidth requirements of the HDMI cables and the coax

* 36 and 24 bit color refers to the sum of all channels (e.g. 36 bit = 12 bits per TMDS color channel).
** Internal receiver power depends on cable length and quality, see page 6.

5

• Interference. Nearby electrical devices can have an adverse effect on
signal quality. For example, older computer monitors often emit very high
electromagnetic fields that can interfere with the performance of adjacent video
equipment.

3.0 CHECKING PACKAGE CONTENTS

Before installing the HCX-11 system, please make certain the following items are
in the shipping carton:

• HCX-11 transmitter

• HCX-11 receiver

• Two 12V DC power adapters

• User manual

extender system, and as a result, limits maximum cable run length. In general,
use cable lengths 9 feet or less. There is one exception to this rule: if the
system must pass only 24 bit signals the

source may be connected to the
HCX-11 via an 18 foot HDMI cable. When transmitting 36 bit signals, both
input and output HDMI connecting cables should be nine feet or less. See
FEATURES for maximum coaxial cable lengths.

• HDMI cables. HDMI cable design and quality are extremely important in
long cable runs where capacitance can severely degrade performance. Use
premium cables; low quality cables are susceptible to interference. Always use
locking cables or good strain relief methods to prevent cables from becoming
loose over time.

Note: Please retain the original packing material

in case you need to return the unit. If you find
any items are missing, contact Audio Authority
immediately. Have the model number and
invoice available for reference when you call.

Higher

Lower

Shorter Distance Longer Distance

Resolution

Refresh Rate

Bit Depth

To the extent that high resolutions, refresh rate, or deep color are used, cable run
length is diminished.

6

4.0 INSTALLATION

• Before installing the HCX-11 Extender, connect the HDMI source directly to the
display using a short, high quality HDMI cable. This precaution is to verify that
the display is compatible with the source, and that the source is producing a
resolution that the display can accept.

• Using Internal Power Mode: The receiver may be powered through a fifth
coaxial cable from the transmitter, with no power supply connected to the
receiver. Internal power mode (shown below) may be used up to 150 feet, and
often much farther depending on the type and quality of coaxial cable.

• Using External Power Mode: External power requires only four coaxial cables
and power supplies for both units (not shown).

5.0 CONNECTING THE HARDWARE

• Turn off the HDMI video source and the HDTV display.

• Connect the source to the transmitter with a high quality HDMI cable no longer
than nine feet for 36 bit signals, or 18 feet for 24 bit signals (see page 4 and 5).

• Install and terminate five, identical length, RG-6 or RG-59 cables (install four
cables if using external power). Mark all coaxial cables on both ends before
installation to avoid hookup mistakes.

TRANS­MITTER

RECEIVER

HDMI SOURCE

HDMI

CABLE

HDMI

CABLE

FIVE COAXIAL CABLES REQUIRED

HDMI

DISPLAY

POWER MODE

SWITCH:

INTERNAL (INT)

POWER

Five wire HCX-11 system setup using Internal Power Mode

7

• Connect the coaxial cables from the transmitter’s coax outputs to the receiver’s
coax inputs. Be careful to connect each cable to the correct jack.

• Set the receiver’s POWER MODE switch to Internal (INT) unless the receiver
will have its own power supply.

COAX INPUT

Five-Coax Extender • Model HCX-11

800-322-8346 • 859-233-4599 • www.audioauthority.com

POWER

EXT- INT LINK

HDMI

OUTPUT

12V DC

POWER

INTERNAL

POWER

TMDS

CLOCK

TMDS

B

TMDS

G

TMDS

R

EXTERNAL

RECEIVER
POWER FOR
LONG CABLE

RUNS

COAX INPUT

INTERNAL

POWER

TMDS

CLOCK

TMDS

B

TMDS

G

TMDS

R

FOR INTERNAL

POWER

APPLICATIONS

HDMI LINK

INDICATOR

HDMI

OUTPUT

CLOCK

SIGNALS

(REQUIRED)

TMDS COLOR CHANNELS

(REQUIRED)

HCX-11 Receiver

INTERNAL

POWER

TMDS

CLOCK

TMDS

B

TMDS

G

TMDS

R

COAX OUTPUT

CLOCK

SIGNALS

(REQUIRED)

TMDS COLOR CHANNELS

(REQUIRED)

INTERNAL

POWER

TMDS

CLOCK

TMDS

B

TMDS

G

TMDS

R

COAX OUTPUT

Five-Coax Extender • Model HCX-11

800-322-8346 • 859-233-4599 • www.audioauthority.com

LINK

HDMI

INPUT

12V DC

POWER

POWER

(REQUIRED)

HDMI

INPUT

HDMI LINK

INDICATOR

HCX-11 Transmitter

FOR INTERNAL

POWER

APPLICATIONS

HCX-11
Transmitter

POWER MODE:

EXTERNAL - INTERNAL

FOR LOCKING

CABLE SCREW

8

• Connect the receiver’s HDMI output to the display using a short, high quality
cable no longer than nine feet for 24 bit and 36 bit signals (see pages 4 and 5).

• Plug in the provided AC adapter(s): first to the HCX-11 transmitter (and receiver,
if external power is used), and then to active AC power outlet(s).

• It is recommended to apply power in this sequence: HCX-11 Transmitter
and receiver, then the HDMI source, then the video display. The HDMI LINK
indicator confirms video is being transmitted.

6.0 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

• Make sure the display can accept the resolution and refresh rate output by
the source. Adjust the source output resolution and refresh rate if necessary.
Always test the source and display via a direct HDMI connection before
installation.

• Check the HCX-11 power connection(s) and verify the AC power outlet(s).

• If you encounter problems using the five-cable internal power configuration,
try disconnecting the INTERNAL POWER coax cable at both ends, and use a
power supply at the receiver end. Remember to set POWER MODE switch to
External (EXT). If this solves the problem, either the coax cable is at fault, or the

distance is too long for internal power.

• Use a cable tester to verify continuity in all coaxial cables, and good BNC
terminations.

• Check the HDMI cable connection points to see if the connectors have become
loose. Use good strain relief methods to insure a reliable connection.

• Inspect the HDMI cables for damage, and/or substitute a known good cable.

• Make certain you are using the highest quality, and the shortest length HDMI
cables possible. See page 5 for HDMI cable length guidelines.

• Make certain the coaxial cables are connected to the correct jacks at both ends.

• Check the cable lengths to be sure they are within the limits found on page 4.

• Do not use inferior quality cables; good quality RG-6 or RG-59 type coaxial
cables must be used. Using RG-59 may not allow maximum cable lengths.

If problems persist, contact the Audio Authority Technical Service department via
email: [e-mail], or call 800-322-8346 or 859-233-4599.

9

Tx-HDMI Input HDMI connector

Rx-HDMI Output HDMI connector

Tx – RG-6 output (5) via BNC

Rx – RG-6 input (5) via BNC

Video Connector Usage HDMI video/audio/clock via (4) RG-6 or RG-59

cables

Internal Power Transmission 12VDC via (1) coax cable (up to 150 ft distance)

Compliance HDMI v1.3, HDCP 1.1, DVI 1.1

Data Rate 2.25Gbps

TMDS Clock Speed 225MHz

Maximum Resolution Up to 1920x1200, 1080p/60Hz, VGA to WUXGA

Color Space RGB 24~36, Y444 24~36, Y422 16~24

Deep Color 1080p with 36* bit color

Audio Supported PCM2, PCM 5.1, PCM 7.1, Dolby 5.1, DD+,

Dolby Digital TruHD, DTS-HD

Maximum Range Using RG-6 1080p and 24* bit color: 325 ft (100 meters

)

1080p and 36* bit Deep Color: 245 ft (75 meters

)

Operating Temperature +32° to +122° F (0° to +50° C)

Operating Humidity 10% to 90%, non-condensing

Storage Temperature 12° to +158° F (-10° to +70° C)

Storage Humidity 10% to 90%, non-condensing

Limited Warranty 1 year parts and labor

Regulatory Approvals Transmitter and receiver: FCC, CE, RoHS

Power supply: UL, CUL, CE, PSE, GS, RoHS

Coaxial Cable Requirements High quality, 75 ohm RG-6 or RG-59 cables

Dimensions (H-W-D) 1.2 x 4.9 x 4.33 inches (30x125x110mm)

Weight (Transmitter) 0.59 lbs (270g)

Weight (Receiver) 0.59 lbs (270g)

Power Requirement External supply, 12VDC@1A

Accessories Included (2) power adapters

User manual

7.0 SPECIFICATIONS

* 36 and 24 bit color refers to the sum of all channels (e.g. 36 bit = 12 bits per TMDS color channel).

10

8.0 LIMITED WARRANTY

If this Audio Authority product fails due to defects in materials or workmanship
within one year from the date of the original sale to the end-user, Audio Authority
guarantees that we will replace the defective product at no cost. Freight charges
for the replacement unit will be paid by Audio Authority (ground service only).
A copy of the invoice showing the item number and date of purchase (proof­of-purchase) must be submitted with the defective unit to constitute a valid in­warranty claim.

Units that fail after the warranty period has expired may be returned to the factory
for repair at a nominal charge, if not damaged beyond the point of repair. All
freight charges for out-of-warranty returns for repair are the responsibility of the
customer. Units returned for repair must have a Return Authorization Number
assigned by the factory.

This is a limited warranty and is not applicable for products which, in our opinion,
have been damaged, altered, abused, misused, or improperly installed. Audio
Authority makes no other warranties either expressed or implied, including
limitation warranties as to merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
Additionally, there are no allowances or credits available for service work or
installation performed in the field by the end user.

8.1 WARRANTY SERVICE PROCEDURES

If you suspect a product defect, contact Audio Authority’s Technical Service
Department at 800-322-8346 or 859-233-4599 for assistance in verifying the
problem. If a defect or potential defect is suspected, a replacement unit will be
shipped immediately on a defect-exchange basis and a Return Authorization
Number will be issued for the return of the defective product. Replacement units
are sent out at the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price which is debited to the
Customer’s Credit Card at the time of shipment. Once we receive the defective
unit back at the factory, it will be evaluated under the conditions of this warranty
and if found to be in-warranty, a full credit will be issued to the Customer’s
Credit Card. Return freight charges for the defective unit are the customer’s
responsibility. Please contact our Technical Service Department for complete
details concerning all in and out of warranty service matters.

We appreciate your confidence in our products and services and will always
strive to meet or exceed your needs.

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9.0 REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

The HCX-11 has been tested for compliance with CE and FCC rules and
regulations. The power supplies included have been tested for compliance with
UL, CUL, CE, PSE, and GS regulations and guidelines. This product and its
power supplies are RoHS compliant.

10.0 CONTACT INFORMATION

If you have questions or require assistance with this product in areas not covered
by this manual, please contact Audio Authority using the information below.

Audio Authority Technical Service
800-322-8346 M-F 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, EST
International: 859-233-4599 Fax: [phone]
Send email to: [e-mail]

Audio Authority Corporation
2048 Mercer Road
Lexington, Kentucky 40511-1071
USA

2048 Mercer Road, Lexington, Kentucky 40511-1071 USA

Phone: [phone] • Fax: [phone]

Customer Toll-Free USA & Canada: 800-322-8346

www.audioauthority.com • [e-mail]

E-087

4/09