Avocent Emerge User Manual

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EMERGE® MPX EXTENDER SYSTEM

Installer/User Guide

USA Notification

WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party

responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement: This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed to provide a 20 cm separation from all persons. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. Operations in the 5.15-

5.25GHz band are restricted to indoor usage only.

Canadian Notification

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.

Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe B prescrites dans le Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le Ministère des Communications du Canada.

Safety and EMC Approvals and Markings

FCCClass B, UL, cUL, RoHS, CE, ICES-003, WEEE

Emerge® MPX Extender System

Installer/User Guide

Avocent, the Avocent logo, The Power of Being There and Emerge are registered trademarks of Avocent Corporation or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

Instructions

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and

maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

Dangerous Voltage

This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated dangerous

voltage within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute

a risk of electric shock to persons.

Power On

This symbol indicates the principal on/off switch is in the on position.

Power Off

This symbol indicates the principal on/off switch is in the off position.

Protective Grounding Terminal

This symbol indicates a terminal which must be connected to earth ground prior to

making any other connections to the equipment.

T A BL E  O F C ON T E N TS

Product Overview 1

Introduction 1

Features and Benefits 1

Video 2

Audio 2

Control 2

Browser-based user interface 2

System Overview 3

Hardware Overview 4

MPX 1450/1550 transmitter 4

MPX 1450/1550 receiver 7

MPX 1450/1550 access points 8

Compatibility with Attached Devices 10

EDID compatibility 10

Video Cross Conversion 11

Installation 13

Installation Overview 13

Getting started 13

Maximizing Your Wireless Range 14

Transmitter Configuration 15

(Optional) Transmitter media LAN settings 18

Validating media LAN connectivity 21

Access point installation 22

Receiver Configuration 23

Accessing your receiver’s web interface 23

(Optional) MPX receiver control LAN (L1) settings 24

Receiver display device settings 24

(Optional) Receiver media LAN settings 26

(Optional) Configuring receiver system settings 27

Designating a specific transmitter 27

iii

Setting explicit receiver bindings (suggested) 28

Transmitter and Receiver Placement (MPX 1550 System Only) 30

Mounting options 35

Wall mounting 35

Table mounting 36

Initiating a Media Session 37

Operation 39

Status Monitoring 39

Connection status 39

MPX status LEDs 41

System Tuning 45

Audio 45

Video 45

Transmitter/access point tuning parameters 46

Receiver tuning parameters 48

Serial Control 49

IR Control 52

Advanced Source Device Settings 57

Displaying Firmware and Hardware Versions 58

Firmware version checking 59

Upgrading MPX firmware 59

System Reboot 62

Reset to Factory Defaults 62

Appendix A: Technical Support 63

Appendix B: System Definitions 64

Appendix C: Supported ISO Country Codes 67

Appendix D: Technical Specifications 69

Appendix E: Video Troubleshooting 73

iv Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Product Overview

Introduction

The Emerge® multipoint high-definition (HD)wired/wireless extender (MPX) system provides wireless and wired connectivity for distribution of HD video content to one or more destinations. The MPX extender system consists of transmitters, access points and receivers that form a managed audio/video (A/V) extender network able to deliver a synchronized stream of HD video and audio to as many as 64 display devices. Designed for professional A/V applications, the MPX extender system features an integrated digital video interface (DVI-I) connector that supports direct connection to HDMI, DVI-D, DVI-A, RGB and Component source and display devices.

NOTE: References to "extender system"in this document refer to transmitters, receivers and accesspoints collectively.

The MPX 1550 transmitter combines Avocent’s field-proven MPX extender technology with IEEE 802.11n MIMO-based radios to set the highest standard for wireless HD video distribution in terms of visual acuity, transmission distance and noise immunity. The MPX 1450 transmitter offers all the same capabilities and features of the MPX 1550 transmitter in hardwired environments using the existing network infrastructure. All transmitter models support up to eight receivers, and the MPX 1450 and MPX 1550 transmitters and receivers can also be expanded using MPX access points to increase the number of displays for large-scale venues involving multiple floors, departments or buildings such as universities, theme parks, hospitals and airports. For ease of installation and configuration, Emerge MPX extender systems feature an on-board web interface that also offers powerful diagnostic tools for local or remote management.

Features and Benefits

• Wired or wireless extender systems – Emerge MPX extender systems provide installation flexibility for wireless (MPX 1550 extender system only) or wired high-definition applications.

• Point-to-multipoint distribution – By adding MPX 1450 and 1550 access point expansion units, an Emerge MPX extender system can be expanded to distribute HD video and audio to as many as 64 display devices.

• Advanced encryption standard (AES) 128 bit encryption – A/V information is encrypted with built-in AES for secure transmission.

• Small form factor – A smaller profile allows convenient installation and saves space where it's needed the most.

• Dynamic binding - A transmitter can be configured to only allow specific receivers to connect to it. Likewise, a receiver can be configured to only connect to a specific transmitter. Specification is made using unique MAC addresses.

Video

Emerge MPX 1450/1550 transmitters and receivers feature a single DVI-I media port that supports RGB, Component, DVI-A, DVI-D and HDMI video. Additional connectors are provided for extension of serial and infrared (IR) data.

Audio

MPX extender systems support embedded HDMI digital audio and external analog audio via white and red RCAconnectors.

Control

MPX extender systems allow both RS-232 and infrared control of source and display devices and IR receiver and emitter capability. They support broadcast and bi-directional IR data transfers for session control from the point of display or for display control from the location of the source device; mini-jack cables allow IR blasters and receivers to be optimally placed. A serial interface allows integration with third-party control systems.

Browser-based user interface

Browser-based configuration is available for MPX transmitters, access points and receivers. The web interface allows local or remote control and configuration of the system without special software tools. Through the web interface, you can configure system, network, source device and display device settings; display hardware and firmware versions, connection status and signal strength; update firmware; reboot the system; reset to factory defaults; and change your password.

2 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

System Overview

The following diagram illustrates a typical configuration, including a single transmitter and up to eight receiver units, and an expanded configuration, including a single transmitter, up to eight access points and up to eight receiver units (MPX 1550 extender system shown).

Figure 1.1: Typical and Expanded MPX Multipoint Extender System Configuration

Table 1.1: Descriptions

Number Item

1 Source Device

2 MPXTransmitter

Chapter 1: Product Overview 3

Number Item

3 MPXReceiver

4 DisplayDevice

5 Access Point

The MPX 1450 extender system versus the MPX 1550 extender system

The MPX 1550 extender system offers a wired or wireless solution for HD video distribution. It features a default omni antenna with a signal strength of up to 150 feet through three interior walls or 300 feet line of sight. The MPX 1450 extender system offers all the same capabilities and features of the MPX 1550 extender system in hardwired environments using the existing network infrastructure. Both the MPX 1450 and MPX 1550 extender systems have a wired maximum video bit rate of 80 Mbps and the MPX 1550 extender system has a wireless maximum video bit rate of 50 Mbps (1-to-many) or 110 Mbps (1-to-1). All transmitter models support up to eight receivers, and the number of displays can be expanded using MPX 1450/1550AP access point expansion units.

Hardware Overview

MPX 1450/1550 transmitter

The transmitter digitally-encodes, compresses, encrypts and sends media signals from a source device to a group of bound receivers.

NOTE: See "System Definitions" on page 64 for a list of common components.

The front panel of the MPX 1450/1550 transmitter and receivers are identical. The MPX 1550 units are shown as examples; the MPX 1450 units have no antennas because they are wiredonly.

4 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Figure 1.2: MPX 1550 Transmitter

Chapter 1: Product Overview 5

Table 1.2: MPX 1550 Transmitter Descriptions

Number

Item Description

1 Unit Reset Recessed button.

2 Front Status LEDs

Five colored LEDs that communicate the current state of the device. See MPX status LEDs on page 41 for a detailed description of LED status indicators.

Infrared Transmitter Port - IR(Tx)

Transmitssignalsfrom an IRremote controller for transmission through the extender network. The dual IR(Tx) emitter connects to the port via a 3.5 mm jack.

Infrared Receiver Port IR(Rx)

Captures signals from an IR remote controller for transmission through the extender network. An optional IR receiver connects to the port via a

2.5 mm mini jack.

Power DC power input port.

Serial Port

RJ-45 connector for attachment of optional DB9-UNI or DB9-DUAL

adaptor. The dual adaptor splitsthe port into two RS-232 DB9 female

connectors and supports serial passthrough for control of display

devices.

L1 LAN Port

RJ-45, 10/100 Mbps Ethernet for web-based management of the

transmitter.

L2 LAN Port

RJ-45, 10/100 Mbps Ethernet for transfer of A/V media from the

transmitter to all bound receivers/accesspoints.

RCA Audio Provides support for unbalanced analog stereo (left and right) audio.

Universal A/V Port

Provides connectivity to a wide range of display devices, including

HDMI, DVI-D, DVI-A, RGB and Component.

Omni-directional Antenna

(Supported on the MPX 1550 extender system only) Used to establish the wireless linkbetween the transmitter/accesspoints and bound receivers. Avocent offers specialized antennas for improved distance or higher performance in certain bands. See the Avocent web site for more information.

6 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

MPX 1450/1550 receiver

The receiver decrypts, uncompresses and converts media signals into the desired format and outputs the signals to the connected display device. The following diagram illustrates the receiver (the omni-directional antenna applies only to the MPX 1550 receiver).

Figure 1.3: MPX 1550 Receiver

Chapter 1: Product Overview 7

Table 1.3: MPX 1550 Receiver Descriptions

Number

Item Description

Unit Reset Recessed button.

2 Front Status LEDs

Five colored LEDs that communicate the current state of the device. See MPX status LEDs on page 41 for a detailed description of LED status indicators.

Infrared Transmit Port IR(Tx)

Transmitssignalsfrom an IRremote controller for transmission through the extender network. The dual IR(Tx) emitter connects to the port via a 3.5 mm jack.

Infrared Receiver Port -

IR(Rx)

Captures signals from an IR remote controller for transmission through

the extender network. An optional IR receiver connects to the port via a

2.5 mm mini jack.

Power

DC power input port.

6 Rear Status LEDs

Offers a subset of front panel status LED information. Rear status LEDs are useful when front panel status LEDs are not visible due to orientation of a deployed receiver.

7 Serial Port

RJ-45 connector for attachment of optional DB9-UNI or DB9-DUAL adaptor. The dual adaptor splitsthe port into two RS-232 DB9 female connectors. Supports serialpassthrough for control of displaydevices.

8 LAN Port

RJ-45, 10/100 Ethernet that provides combined media and control LAN functionality.

9 Universal A/V Port

A DVI-I connector that provides connectivityto a wide range of display devices, including HDMI, DVI-D, DVI-A, RGB and Component.

10 RCA Audio Provides support for unbalanced analog stereo (left and right) audio.

Omni-directional

Antenna

(Supported on the MPX 1550 extender system only) Used to establish

the wireless linkbetween the transmitter/accesspoints and bound

receivers. Avocent offers specialized antennas for improved distance or

higher performance in certain bands. See the Avocent web site for

more information.

MPX 1450/1550 access points

In installations that require more than eight display devices, up to eight MPX 1450/1550AP access point expansion units can be added. Each expansion unit can support up to eight MPX

8 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

receivers to allow up to 64 display devices attached to a single transmitter. The inbound media interface for both MPX 1450AP and MPX 1550AP access points must be wired. While the outbound media interface for MPX 1450AP access points must be wired, the MPX 1550AP access points can be wired or wireless.

Figure 1.4: MPX 1550AP Access Point

Table 1.4: MPX 1550AP Access Point Descriptions

Number Item Description

1 Unit Reset Recessed button.

Chapter 1: Product Overview 9

Number Item Description

2 Front Status LEDs

Five colored LEDs that communicate the current state of the device. See MPX status LEDs on page 41 for a detailed description of LED status indicators.

3 Power DC power input port.

4 Serial Port

5 L1 LAN Port

RJ-45, 10/100 Mbps Ethernet for web-based management of the transmitter.

6 L2 LAN Port

RJ-45, 10/100 Mbps Ethernet for transfer of A/V media from the transmitter to all bound receivers/accesspoints.

Omni-directional Antenna

Compatibility with Attached Devices

The following sections provide guidelines regarding compatibility with source and display devices.

EDID compatibility

Display devices communicate with source devices using Extended Display Identification Data (EDID), a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) standard data format that contains basic information about a monitor and its capabilities, including vendor information, maximum image size, color characteristics, factory pre-set timings, frequency range limits and character strings for the monitor name and serial number.

EDID information stored in a display device is read by the MPX receiver via the video cable through a digital path called the Display Data Channel (DDC). The receiver forwards this information to the transmitter across the media LAN. The transmitter passes the EDID information to the source device, allowing Plug and Play functionality among display and source devices.

An MPX extender sytem group has a single primary receiver, which has special responsibilities with regard to serial, IR and video functionality. Regarding video, only the primary receiver

10 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

passes its EDID information back to the transmitter. The display device attached to the primary receiver should be representative of the displays attached to other receivers.

The MPX transmitter is pre-configured with default EDID information, which indicates support for a fixed set of low video resolutions at 60 Hz. Higher resolutions are added as the transmitter learns the capabilities of the attached display devices from actively bound MPX receivers. This active EDIDinformation is stored in non-volatile memory and is maintained by the transmitter unless it is intentionally restored to factory default settings. The process occurs as follows:

• The active EDID string is blank.

• When a receiver binding occurs, if the receiver is not the primary and if the active EDID string is blank, the transmitter merges the received and default EDID strings so the resulting string represents the common features supported by both devices. This new string is stored as the active EDID and reported to the source device.

• When the primary receiver binds with the transmitter the first time, the merge process is repeated using the default and primary EDID settings.

• When bindings are established with subsequent receivers, no action is taken.

• If a different receiver is selected as the primary via the transmitter’s web interface, the merge process is repeated when a new primary EDID string is received.

• If the primary display device is replaced with a different model, the receiver reports the information to the transmitter and a merge process takes place.

NOTE: If an accesspoint is used between the primary receiver and the transmitter, the primary receiver needs to be configured as "Primary" on the accesspoint; likewise, the access point needs to be configured as "Primary" on the receiver.

NOTE: A blank screen may temporarily occur as EDID changes are being processed. Restart the video session for the change to take effect.

Video Cross Conversion

MPX extender systems are able to pass both interlaced and progressive video formats, but they do not support interlacing or deinterlacing. It is possible cross-convert a signal from one video format to another through the extender network. For example, RGB video received by transmitter may be converted for output to an HDMI display device by an MPX receiver. The receiver is able output either HDMI or DVI-D signaling as long as the input and output resolutions are consistent. The system does not provide video scaling.

Chapter 1: Product Overview 11

12 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Installation

Installation Overview

Complete the following steps in order to begin installation of your MPX extender system.

• Take proper precautions against antistatic discharge.

• Remove your MPX transmitter, access points (optional), antennas (MPX 1550 extender system only), and receivers from their boxes.

• Refer to the following kit contents list to ensure that you have all the items necessary for yourinstallation.

• Place the units on a stable working surface. To prevent radio receivers from being overdriven, allow a distance of at least three feet between adjacent units.

• For the MPX 1550 extender system, connect the antennas. Fold the antennas inward while the extender system units are in close proximity to each other. This will prevent excessive signal strength, which may cause data loss andchoppy video.

• Ensure that all units are turned off at this time.

Getting started

Before installing your MPX extender system, refer to the following list to ensure you have all items that shipped with the MPX extender system.

Supplied with the MPX extender system

• MPXtransmitter, access point(s) or receiver as appropriate

• 3 omni-directional antennas (MPX 1550 extender system only)

• Adaptor for RGB video (MPX 1450/1550T transmitter only)

• Power supply and ACline cord

• Quick Installation Guide

Maximizing Your Wireless Range

The number, thickness and location of walls, ceilings and other objects that signals pass through affect the range of MPX extender system units. A typical wall has metal or wood studs covered on each side by a single layer of gypsum or plaster board. Useful transmission range varies depending on the types of materials, obstructions and background radio frequency noise at your place of installation.

To maximize your wireless range:

1. Keep the number of walls and ceilings between the transmitter and receiver to a minimum.

2. Position a direct line between your transmitter and receiver so that the signal travels straight through a wall or ceiling. A wall that is 1.5 feet thick (.5 meters) at a 45° angle appears to be almost 3 feet (1 meter) thick; at a 2° angle, it looks over 42 feet (14 meters) thick.

3. If possible, position your devices and extender system units so the signal passes through drywall or open doorways and not other materials. Building materials such as a solid metal doors or aluminum studs can impede the wireless signal and will have a negative effect on the wirelessrange.

4. Keep your MPX transmitter and receivers away (at least 3 to 6 feet or 1 to 2 meters) from electrical devices or appliances that generate RF noise.

5. Antenna extension cables result in signal loss. When possible, move the transmitter or receiver into the desired position in lieu of using an extension cable. When cables are necessary, use the shortest Avocent-certified cable that allows you to properly position your antenna. Daisy-chaining of antenna extension cables is not supported. Carefully follow the installation instructions provided with your cable kit and properly configure the extender when using extension cables.

NOTE: Signals will not pass through concrete walls/floors or titanium coated glass.

MPX extender system units provide wireless transmission over the Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (UNII) and on the Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) radio bands.

MPX extender system units are able to operate over following bands:

• UNII 1: (4 channels bonded to two 40 MHz channels) 5.15-5.25 GHz

• UNII 3: (5 channels bonded to two 40 MHz channels) 5.725 to 5.825 GHz

14 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Transmitter Configuration

NOTE: If you prefer to mount your transmitter and receivers prior to configuration, see Mounting options on page

35.

The transmitter can be configured by using an intuitive web interface, which can be accessed via the control LAN port with a web browser. The following steps guide you through this process.

To configure transmitter control LAN (L1) settings:

1. Connect the power supply to the transmitter. When the unit is turned on, the two green LEDs will light up alternately and all other LEDs will turnoff.

2. Using an Ethernet crossover cable or hub, connect a browser client to the control LAN port (labeled L1) on the rear of the transmitter.

3. The default IP address for L1 of the transmitter is 192.168.1.1 with a subnet mask of

255.255.255.0. This may be changed using the web interface via a client computer's web browser that is configured so it can directly access the transmitter.

4. Launch a browser session to the IP address of the transmitter to invoke its web utility via L1, the control LAN port. The Transmitter Menu will appear.

5. Leave the username blank and type the default password, Admin (case sensitive).

6. For the MPX 1550 transmitter, if the unit has not been configured, you will be prompted to enter a country code. This code is used by the product to establish allowable settings for wireless bands, channels and powerlimits. For more information on country codes, see Supported ISO Country Codes on page 67.

7. If desired, select Change Password to change the system password.

a. Type the old login password.

b. Type the new login password. The length of the password must be between 0 and 31

characters and may contain any combination of letters, digits and printable characters, but is case sensitive.

c. Type the new login password again to verify.

d. Apply the changes.

8. Click Control LAN Settings and configure as follows.

Chapter 2: Installation 15

a. Type the IP address for L1 (control LAN) to match the network where it will be

placed. Use this address for subsequent browser connections. Type the subnet mask for L1.

b. Type the gateway address for L1, or 0.0.0.0 if there is no gateway.

c. The LAN Speed / Duplex setting allows you to manually select 10 or 100 Mbps LAN

speed and full or half duplex operation. By default, these settings are automatically negotiated with your switch or hub. To ensure interoperability, compatible settings must be selected on the Ethernet switch and MPX extender system units.

9. Apply the changes.

NOTE: Do not use the following reserved IP addresses: 224.xxx.xxx.xxx to 255.xxx.xxx.xxx. Be careful not to cause conflict with the Control LAN IP addressesof other units on the same network or with the Media LANIP addresses configured in the Media LAN Settings page.

NOTE: Once you change the IP addressof a unit, the browser session will terminate. Your browser session must be re-established using the new address of the unit.

To configure transmitter source device settings:

The transmitter features a DVI-I dual-link media input port that supports DVI-D, HDMI, DVIA, RGB and Component video. To detect and process a video stream, the transmitter must be appropriately configured.

Source Device Settings are used to configure the media cable type and display information data (EDID) settings. Advanced settings for video positioning (panning) and clock phase adjustments are also provided.

1. Within the web interface Transmitter Menu, select Source Device Settings.

2. The Cable Type Settings drop-down menu is used to configure the transmitter for the type of video cable used to interconnect with the source device. Use the options as follows:

• Auto: (default) Select this option when using HDMI cable, DVI-D cable, HD15 RGB

cable if the supplied Avocent RGB adaptor is used or three-wire Component video cable if the optional Avocent Component video adaptor-cable is used (not included).

• Manual (HDMI/DVI): Select this option to override display information data (EDID)

provided by your display device to HDMI or DVI-D source devices. Depending upon your source device, this may provide explicit control over video resolutions options available to users of the source device.

• Manual (RGB): You must select this option when using RGB cables without the

Avocent-supplied adaptor. You may also select this option to override display information data (EDID) provided by your display device to RGB (also referred to as

16 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

VGA) source devices. Depending upon your source device, this may provide explicit control over video resolutions options available to users of the source device.

• Manual (Component): You must select this option when using three-wire Component

cables without the optional Avocent Component video adaptor.

3. The MPX transmitter acts like a display device attached to the video source device; as such, it will provide capabilities information back to the source device using an EDID string. The Video Resolution Settings drop-down menu defines the way in which the transmitter presents itself to the source device when queried for resolution (EDID) information. Use the various options as follows:

• Primary: (default) This setting requests the transmitter to report the subset of

resolutions that are supported both by itself and the display device attached to the primary receiver.

• Custom: This option requests the transmitter to report a custom set of resolutions to the

source device. Depending upon your source device, this may provide explicit control over video resolutions options available to users of the source device. Cable Type Settings must be set to Manual (HDMI/DVI) or Manual (RGB) for this option to be available. This option will cause a resolution table to be displayed. Select the set of resolutions that you want the transmitter to present to the source device.

Chapter 2: Installation 17

Figure 2.1: Transmitter Custom Resolution Settings

• None: This setting invalidates resolution management on the transmitter, which causes

some RGB source devices to treat the transmitter as a default monitor. Choose this mode with caution as it may allow users of the source device to select a resolution or refresh rate that is not supported by this transmitter or by a display device attached to an MPX receiver. Cable Type Settings must be set to Manual (RGB) for this option to be available.

(Optional)To configure transmitter system settings:

1. Within the web interface Transmitter Menu, select System Settings.

2. If you want to select a transmitter by name rather than by MAC address, you can select a name to identify the transmitter and type it in the Device Name text box. This name will be displayed throughout the web interface.

18 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

3. For secure web access, HTTPS access can be used to access the web interface. The HTTPS Required setting allows you to explicitly set HTTPS as the transport protocol for access to the web interface. If selected, you must install the certificate from the MPX transmitter onto your browser client. HTTPS ensures encryption of all web content. If this setting is disabled, you may obtain a secure web session with the transmitter by launching an HTTPS session rather than an HTTP session from your browser client.

4. The Remote Console feature allows for centralized control of the MPX extender system. Contact Avocent technical support before you enable thisfeature.

NOTE: The Remote Console feature should only be enabled on a secure network, as it potentiallycreates a security hole.

5. Apply the changes.

(Optional) Transmitter media LAN settings

The MPX 1550 transmitter offers additional wireless Media LAN settings that you may optimize. These involve the topology of your extender network, broadcasting ofESSID and transmitter power attenuation. The transmitter offers explicit modes for 1-to-1 and 1-to-many (default configuration) operation. If your deployment consists of a transmitter and a single receiver, you may select 1-to-1 topology mode, which optimizes the radio for 1-to-1 transmission and increases the default Video Data Rate. These optimizations should result in fewer lost data packets and increased video acuity.

To select 1-to-1 topology (MPX 1550 extender system only):

1. Within the web interface Transmitter Menu, select Media LAN Settings – Basic LAN Settings.

2. In the Topology Configuration drop-down menu, select 1-to-1.

3. Apply the change.

Chapter 2: Installation 19

Figure 2.2: Transmitter Basic LAN Settings

An MPX 1550 transmitter is a specialized wireless access point. It broadcasts a name (ESSID), which enables MPX receivers to locate and bind to it. Although it is not possible to alter this name, you may disable the broadcasting of this name if all receivers have been explicitly configured with the MAC address of the transmitter.

NOTE: Disabling of ESSID makes the transmitter invisible to MPX receivers and other clients that are not aware of it. New receivers cannot be bound to the transmitter while this function is disabled.

To disable ESSID broadcast:

1. In the ESSID broadcast drop-down menu, select Disabled.

2. Apply the change.

The MPX 1550 transmitter allows you to attenuate its wireless transmission power. The unit is pre-configured for legal settings, but it is recommended to reduce the transmission power if the transmitter and receiver are located in close proximity. This prevents over-saturation of the receiver’s radio and reduces the radius of the transmission range, making the wireless channel available for transmitters and receivers that might be installed in neighboring rooms.

20 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

To attenuate transmission power:

1. In the Transmit Power Attenuation drop-down menu, select the appropriate attenuation value.

2. Apply the change.

NOTE: Selection of this setting causes the transmitter to temporarily drop active bindings.

NOTE: Each 3dB of attenuation reduces signal strength by one half. Thus, the setting for -3dB results in one-half

power. The setting for -6dB results in one-quarter power, and the setting for -9dB results in one-eighth power. For a small conference room, -9dB setting should be adequate; for larger auditoriums, -3dB should be adequate. For maximum distance and wall penetration, -0dB is recommended.

To configure advanced IP settings:

1. Within the web interface Transmitter Menu, select Media LAN Settings – Advanced IP Settings.

2. You can customize the Unicast IP Settings (namely subnet addresses and masks) for the wired or wireless outbound media LAN connections. These settings allow you to place multiple transmitters on a single LAN or to share it with existing equipment.

NOTE: Unicast IP Settings are used by a transmitter to exchange control messages with each of its bound receivers. T he Unicast IP Settings of a receiver must match those of the transmitter to which it binds.

3. You can customize the multicast IP address range used for A/V streaming. This setting is set by a transmitter and is shared by all of its bound receivers. The first octet must be 239 and the last octet must be zero. You can set the middle two octets between zero and 255 inclusively.

NOTE: The Transmitter Number setting on the Basic LAN Settings tab allows multiple transmitters to operate with the same Unicast IP Settings and Multicast IP Address Range on a wired LAN. You can set the Transmitter Number to zero for all units if each unit has unique Unicast IP Settings and Multicast IP Address Range.

Chapter 2: Installation 21

Figure 2.3: Transmitter Advanced IPSettings

Validating media LAN connectivity

Media session data (audio, video and control information) is transferred from an MPX 1450 transmitter to bound receivers through the L2 wired LAN interface. The MPX 1550 transmitter supports both the wireless (default configuration) and wired LAN interfaces. Once the units are turned on, MPX receivers begin to search both wired and wireless media LAN interfaces for an accessible MPX transmitter. The following sections will guide you through a quick test of the wireless and wired modes of operation.

(Optional) Wired media LAN (L2) setup

Perform the following steps if you wish to use MPX transmitters and receivers in a wired mode of operation.

To set up a wired media LAN:

1. Connect the media LAN ports of the MPX transmitter and all receivers using standard 100 Mbps Ethernet hubs or switches and UTP cabling. Crossover cables may be used for pointto-point applications.

NOTE: Wired connection should be made to the L2 port of MPX transmitters and to the LAN port, indicated by the LAN symbol, on MPX receivers.

2. Within the web interface Transmitter Menu, select Media LAN Settings.

3. Select the Selects Wired Connection radio button.

22 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

NOTE: The IP address of the MPX receiver’s media LAN port is dynamically assigned by its transmitter at bind time. This process is similar to DHCP.

4. You may place more than one transmitter on a wired media LAN. Skip to the next step if you are only installing one transmitter.

To install multiple transmitters, select a unique Transmitter Number from the pulldown menu on the Media LAN Settings page.

NOTE: To allow multiple groupings of transmitters and receivers to share a wired media LAN, each transmitter and its group of receivers must have a unique set of IP addresses.The Transmitter Number setting is used to select a unique base address for a transmitter and its associated receivers. When placing multiple transmitters on a wired media LAN, you must budget the bandwidth available to each transmitter to avoid excessive contention. The total video data rate across all transmitters should not exceed 60 Mbps. SeeTransmitter/access point tuning parameters on page 46 for more information.

NOTE: Media LAN traffic is timestamped and latency sensitive by nature. For this reason, media LAN IP addresses are not routable. A wired media LAN may be interconnected using industry-standard Ethernet cables, hubs and switches. VLAN capable switches may also be used. Extended distance may be accomplished via fiber-based interswitch links. In all cases, the media LAN must comprise a single subnet. It is not recommended to share the media LAN with other devices.

5. Apply the changes.

Dynamic binding

By default, the MPX transmitter accepts bind requests from eight receivers. Bound receivers are listed on the Bindings page of the Transmitter Menu.

To validate your media LAN and bindings:

1. Plug all receiver line cords into the AC mains and turn on your receivers.

2. Wait for the LEDs on all units to bind with the transmitter. When the receivers have successfully initialized and bound with the transmitter, the two green LEDs will cease to alternate.

3. Within the web interface Transmitter Menu, select Bindings.

4. Scroll down to the Detected Receivers table to verify that all active receivers are listed (by MAC address). If a receiver is not listed, verify its power state or LAN connectivity. If your transmitter is configured for wireless operation and the receiver is not listed, you may need to adjust the transmitter power settings. See Fine tuning suggestions on page 77 for more information.

Access point installation

An MPX 1450/1550AP access point expansion unit acts like another receiver for the transmitter, allowing you to transmit data to more than eight display devices.

Chapter 2: Installation 23

To set up an MPX 1450/1550APexpansion unit:

1. Connect the power supply to the access point.

2. In the Active Receivers list, click the MAC address of the first access point to access its web interface.

3. Apply the appropriate country code (MPX 1550 extender system only).

4. When the connection resumes, select System Settings to enter a name for the access point.

5. To configure an access point to ignore all but the currently detected transmitter, select the detected transmitter from the Bindings page to move it into the Configured Transmitter table. The connection will reset.

6. Repeat for each access point.

NOTE: For MPX 1450 accesspoints, the outbound Media interface must be wired. For MPX 1550 accesspoints, it can be configured as wired or wireless. For wired outbound Media interface, it is important to ensure receivers use the same Unicast IP Settings (Subnet Address/Mask) as the access point.

Connecting anaccess point in wired mode

By default, a receiver connects to a transmitter in wired mode. To allow a wired receiver to connect to an access point in wired mode, configure the Inbound Unicast IP Settings on the Media LAN Settings – Advanced IP Settings page to match the Outbound Unicast IP Settings of the access point. For example, in factory default condition, you should set it to 192.168.12.0. See (Optional) Receiver media LAN settings on page 26.

Receiver Configuration

Accessing your receiver’s web interface

The web interface of an MPX receiver may be accessed via the web interface of the transmitter, or you may directly access the receiver's web interface via its LANport. To access the Receiver Menu through the transmitter, web queries and responses are forwarded automatically between the transmitter and receiver over the wired or wireless media LAN.

The Transmitter Menu provides web links to all actively bound receivers. Until device names are configured, a receiver is identified by its MAC address. A similar link back to the transmitter is provided in the web interface Receiver Menu.

NOTE: Transmitter Configuration on page 15 for detailed instructionsfor configuring the receiver password.

24 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

(Optional) MPX receiver control LAN (L1) settings

To establish a dedicated wired control LAN for management of an MPX extender system, you must establish unique IP addresses for the control LAN ports of each receiver and transmitter to be placed on the shared LAN.

To establish a wired control LAN for MPX receivers:

1. Interconnect the control LAN ports of the MPX receivers using industry-standard 10/100Mbps Ethernet components.

2. Connect your browser client to the control LAN.

3. Turn on a single MPX receiver and leave all other receivers with default addresses turned off.

4. Launch a browser session to the default IP address of the MPX receiver, which is

192.168.1.2 with a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0.

5. If prompted, type the default password, Admin (case sensitive).

6. Within the Receiver Menu, select Control LAN Settings and set the parameters asfollows:

a. Enter the IP address of the control LAN to match the subnet on which it will be

placed. Use this address for subsequent browser connections. Do not use the reserved IP address, 0.0.0.0.

NOTE: To prevent confusion between multiple receivers, it is recommended that you label each receiver with its new IP address.

b. Enter the control LAN subnet mask.

c. Enter the control LAN gateway address, or 0.0.0.0 if there is no gateway.

7. Apply the changes.

8. Return to step 3 until all MPX receivers are configured with unique IP addresses.

Receiver display device settings

The MPX 1450/1550 receiver features a DVI-I dual-link media input port that supports DVI-D, HDMI, DVI-A, RGBHV and Component video.

Within the Display Device Settings page in the Receiver Menu, you can configure its output video mode and override any display information data provided by your display device with a custom set of resolutions.

Chapter 2: Installation 25

To configure receiver display device settings:

1. Within the Receiver Menu, select Display Device Settings, then select one of the following options from the Cable Type and Resolution Settings drop-down menu.

a. Plug and Play: (default) This option allows the receiver to auto-detect DVI-D/HDMI

displays, RGB displays (if the video cabling and display support DDC functionality) and Component video displays (if the optional Avocent Component adaptor-cable is used). When MPX receivers are configured for Plug and Play, they are able to distinguish an RGB display device from the EDID information received from the display.

NOTE: MPX receivers cannot override EDID information received from HDMI and DVI-D display devices. To do so, use the controls provided on Source Device Settings page in the Transmitter Menu.

b. Manual (RGB): This option requests the receiver to override EDID information, if any,

that it is able to read from the display device. You must select this option if your display device provides invalid or no EDID information or if cabling problems or active devices such as video splitters prevent this information from being read by the receiver. Otherwise, the MPX receiver assumes that a display device is not present and will not establish a video session. If this is the primary (or only) receiver, as selected via the transmitter bindings table, this custom set of resolutions is forwarded to the transmitter. Should you wish to take control over resolution management for any other reason, it is best to do so via the Source Device Settings page in the Transmitter Menu. Transmitter settings override EDID information received from all receivers. The selected set of resolutions are passed to the MPX transmitter.

26 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Figure 2.4: Receiver Manual Resolution Settings

c. Manual (Component): You must select this option for the receiver to output

Component video if the optional Avocent DVI to Component adaptor-cable is not used. This setting also requests the receiver to generate EDID information on behalf of the Component display device. If this is the primary (or only) receiver as selected via the Bindings page in the Transmitter Menu, then this information will be forwarded to the transmitter.

(Optional) Receiver media LAN settings

To configure advanced IP settings:

1. Within the Receiver Menu, select Media LAN Settings – Advanced IP Settings.

2. You can customize the Unicast IP Settings (namely subnet addresses and masks) for the wired or wireless inbound media LAN connections. These settings must match those of the transmitter to which the receiver binds.

NOTE: Unicast IP Settings are used by a receiver to exchange control messages with the transmitter to which it binds.

Chapter 2: Installation 27

3. By default, a receiver is set up to connect to a transmitter in wired mode, using subnet address 192.168.11.0. To connect to an access point in default condition, you should change the Unicast IP (Wired) Subnet Address to 192.168.12.0.

NOTE: See "Video Troubleshooting" on page 73 for information regarding the Media LAN Performance table.

Figure 2.5: Receiver Advanced IP Settings

(Optional) Configuring receiver system settings

To configure receiver system settings:

1. Within the web interface Receiver Menu, select System Settings.

2. Type a Device Name to associate a name with the unit. The device name may contain any combination of printable characters, but cannot exceed 127 characters.

3. The Display Status Screens page allows you enable and disable the display of status messages on the display device. Status messages include diagnostic information that may be useful during initial installation.

4. Apply the changes.

Designating a specific transmitter

When a receiver is rebooted, it searches for an MPX transmitter and attempts to bind with the first detected transmitter if a specific transmitter is not designated. You may wish to constrain a receiver to a specific transmitter for the following reasons:

• If multiple transmitters are in close proximity, this allows each receiver to be tied to a specifictransmitter.

28 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

• Designation of a specific transmitter ensures that rogue transmitters are ignored by your receivers.

• If all receivers are tied to specific transmitter, it is possible to disable ESSID broadcast on your transmitter. Disabling of ESSID broadcast provides yet another layer of security for your system (MPX 1550 extender system only).

To designate a specific transmitter:

1. Within the web interface Receiver Menu, select Bindings.

2. Select the desired transmitter in the Detected Transmitters table or enter the MAC address of the desired transmitter directly in the Configured Transmitter table.

3. Apply the changes.

Figure 2.6: Transmitter Binding Page

Setting explicit receiver bindings (suggested)

By default, a transmitter will accept bind requests from any receiver. A bound receiver participates in media sessions with the transmitter. The explicit bindings feature allows you to configure the transmitter to only accept bind requests from a list of specific receivers; other requests will be rejected. Unbound receivers may be bound by a differenttransmitter.

Explicit bindings offer the followingbenefits:

• Loss of connection with dynamically bound receivers is not treated as an error

condition by the transmitter. Explicitly bound receivers will be flagged as nonresponsive if they drop connection with the transmitter.

Chapter 2: Installation 29

• Explicit bindings allow for the selection of a primary receiver, which enables the

following functionality:

• It allows for bi-directional serial and IR communications. Without a primary, serial and IR data is broadcast by the transmitter to all receivers and return data are ignored. The primary receiver selection may be changed as needed throughout a video session.

• It allows a particular display device to be established as the source for EDID information. Without a primary receiver, EDID information is accepted from the first receiver that connects to a transmitter, which may result in seemingly random behavior if the various display devices offer different EDID information.

• Multi-transmitter configurations require explicit pairings of receivers to transmitters.

The Bindings page in the Transmitter Menu contains separate tables for detected receivers and configured receivers. The Detected Receivers table lists each receiver that has requested binding from the transmitter. Each entry provides the MAC address and bind status of the receiver. The Configured Receivers table provides explicit controls for receiver binding. A check box is provided to add detected receivers to the Configured Receivers table. You can also enable the Automatically Bind Detected Receivers option to create a global setting for receiver bind requests.

NOTE: Automatic binding results in a dynamic extender network in which receivers bind and unbind as they are turned on and off. Although simple to establish, dynamic extender networks lacka primary receiver, which prevents the transmission of bi-directional serialand IR data.

To establish explicit receiver bindings:

1. Before configuring explicit bindings, it is recommended that you disable the Automatically Bind Detected Receivers option. If left enabled, the transmitter automatically binds all detected receivers that are not explicitly disabled for binding in the Configured Receivers table.

2. Select the Add to Configured Receivers checkbox next to each detected receiver in the Detected Receivers table.

3. Apply the changes.

4. For each receiver associated with the transmitter, select the Bind Allowed checkbox in the Configured Receivers table. The remaining receivers may be bound to a different transmitter.

5. Click the Primary button to assign one unit as the primary receiver for bi-directional exchange of IR and serial data and reception of EDID information.

6. Apply the changes.

30 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

NOTE: (Optional) You may manually enter a receiver’s MAC address. MAC address labels are affixed to the bottom of an MPX receiver.

Figure 2.7: Bindings Page

Transmitter and Receiver Placement (MPX 1550 System Only)

To find acceptable locations for your units:

1. Turn off all transmitters, receivers, access points, source device and display devices.

2. Place the transmitters, access points and receivers in their desired locations.

3. If you have a PC-based application that is able to detect nearby access points or if you have a handheld spectrum analyzer, use it to identify unused channels. Once identified, turn on your MPX transmitter and configure it to use an available channel via the Media LAN Settings page in the Transmitter Menu.

4. Turn on all remaining MPX extender system units and raise antennas to their upright positions. Allow the units to initialize and bind.

Chapter 2: Installation 31

5. Using the receiver signal strength indicator for guidance, position the units and antennas as needed to obtain optimal signal strength. If possible, try to obtain three or more signal strength LEDs on the front of the receiver and an average frame rate of 28 or greater on all receivers.

NOTE: Radio signals propagate outward from an omni-directional antenna in a disk-like perpendicular manner. A verticalantenna results in horizontal signal propagation. For thisreason, it is best to start with transmitter and receiver antennas that are similarly oriented and aligned on the same horizontal or vertical plane. Vertical antennas result in horizontal emission. High-gain antennas produce a narrowed yet stronger beam of radio waves than low gain antennas, so it is more critical to position transmitters and receivers on the same plane when using high-gain antennas.

NOTE: If transient obstructions, such as people, boxes or vehicles are anticipated during normal operation, then simulate these factors as best you can to observe their effect upon signal strength under real-worldconditions.

6. If necessary, signal strength may be optimized asfollows:

a. Increase your transmitter power.

b. Use specialized directional or high-gain antennas.

c. Use antenna extension cables to raise antennas above obstructions or to pass RF

signals through concrete walls. Although extension cables allow for optimal antenna placement, they will attenuate signal strength, so they should only be used when necessary and kept to a minimum length. Proper placement of your receiver is preferable to using extension cables. Never connect extension cables together as a means of extending antenna placement. This will result in excessive signal loss.

d. Reposition your extender system units. A slight movement of several inches may result

in a noticeable increase of signalstrength.

e. Orient your antennas as needed to account for:

• Antenna polarity: RF antennas are polarized. The default MPX extender system antenna is a dipole antenna, which emits and responds to vertically-oriented RF signals. The Avocent UNI-8DB antenna emits and responds to horizontallyoriented RF signals. When signals pass between these two types of antennas, one must be rotated into a 3 or 9 o’clock position.

NOTE: Failure to orient antennas for proper polarity will cause cross-polarization, which resultsin severe attenuation of signal strength.

Elevation differences: Signal strength is optimal at the same horizontal plane as a transmitting antenna. The signal becomes increasingly weaker both above and below this plane. As illustrated in Figure 2.8, if a transmitter and receiver are positioned on dissimilar horizontal levels (greater than 30 degrees above or below each other), the strongest beam of each antenna

32 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

will not intersect. In this case, signal strength may be optimized through appropriate up or down tilt of their respective antennas, as illustrated in Figure 2.9. Notice how the primary lobe of each beam of each antenna is tilted toward the other antenna. Tilt is accomplished by a slight rotation of the antenna at its base or tilting of the articulating arm of the antenna in the appropriate direction. Once properly aligned, all antennas should be parallel to each other. A dab of radio cement or silicon gel can be used to lock the antenna arms inposition.

Figure 2.8: Vertically Misaligned Antennas

Chapter 2: Installation 33

Figure 2.9: Vertically Aligned Antennas

• Reflections: Depending upon your environment, you may want to orient the antennas on your transmitters and receivers so that one antenna on each unit is upward in a 12 o’clock position and the other antenna is perpendicular to it, in a 3 or 9 o’clock position. To prevent cross-polarization, each system should have one horizontal and one vertical antenna. The vertical antenna will radiate on a horizontal plane and the horizontal antenna will radiate on a vertical plane. This may increase the benefit of antenna diversity by taking advantage of diverse reflections off of environmental objects such as walls, floors, desks andceilings. Use this technique only if signal strength is noticeably improved.

f. Use lower frequency channels to slightly increase transmission distance and wall

penetration.

g. As a final optimization, compare receiver signal strength across all frequencies. Starting

at the lowest frequency, make note of the weakest signal strength reported by any receiver. Select the next frequency via the Media LAN Settings page in the Transmitter Menu. Allow the receivers to bind. Again, record the weakest signal strength reported by any receiver. Repeat this process until all channels have been tested. Set the transmitter for the channel that resulted in the strongest recorded signal strength. Take

34 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

care to evaluate only those channels that are compatible with the antennas that you have selected. For example, do not test G band channels with UNII band antennas.

7. Once acceptable signal strength is attained, turn off the MPX transmitter, access points and receivers.

8. If your antennas will be subject to wind or other forces that might cause them to rotate out of position, consider using a few drops of silicon gel to lock the position of theantenna.

9. Attach the video and audio source devices to the MPX transmitter.

10. Attach the video display and audio devices to the MPX receiver(s) and turn them all on.

11. Turn on your MPX transmitter and access points and wait for the receivers to bind.

12. Turn on your source device.

13. Start a media stream from the source device to the MPX transmitter.

14. Click Connection Status in the Transmitter Menu. The following figure illustrates the Bound Receiver Status table. Verify frame rate and signal strength for each of the bound receivers. The Media LAN Performance page provides detailed performance information for all of the attached receivers.

The output of audio and video media should now be active at each display device, as if they were each individually attached to the source device. Inspect each display for signs of hesitation, color shift, audio loss, or other anomalies.

Figure 2.10: Bound Receiver Status Page

If video fails to appear on your display device or if Plug and Play functionality is not functioning normally, see Video Troubleshooting on page 73 for detailed information.

Chapter 2: Installation 35

If you intend to use the extender network to pass serial or IR control signals, see Serial Control on page 49 and IR Control on page 52 for more information.

Mounting options

Wall mounting

An optional keyhole style wall mounting bracket is available for MPX 1450/1550 receivers. The bracket also provides screw slots for tablemounting.

Figure 2.11: MPX 1550 Wall Mount Bracket

NOTE: The keyhole style bracket is compatible only with MPX 1450/1550 receivers. The bracket is not compatible

with MPX 1450/1550 transmitters.

To install the mounting bracket:

1. Use the bracket as a template to mark desired holes on the mounting surface.

2. Insert mounting screws into the drilled holes.

3. Attach the bracket to the receiver using the supplied pan head machine screws.

36 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

NOTE: Take care to orient the bracket such that the narrow portion of keyhole slot will interlock with the heads of the mounting screws when the unit suspended upon them.

4. Slots on outer edge of bracket can be used after the bracket is installed to the receiver. Hold the receiver / bracket against the mounting surface and drive screws thru slots. Screws along bottom edge should be installed before plugging in cables.

Table mounting

An optional L-bracket is available that allows for table mounting of MPX 1450/1550 transmitters and receivers. The kit contains two brackets and four mounting screws. Either bracket may be used as a left- or right-hand bracket and may be oriented for table top or under table mounting. The bracket may be used in conjunction with the power supply bracket.

Figure 2.12: MPX 1450/1550 Table Mount Bracket

To install the mounting bracket:

1. Remove the two lid retention screws from each side of the transmitter or receiver.

2. Align the bracket with the chassis screw holes. The bracket may be oriented for table top or under table mounting.

3. Attach the bracket to unit using the supplied pan head machine screws.

4. Mount the brackets to the table top or bottom, as desired. Screws are not provided for this purpose.

Chapter 2: Installation 37

NOTE: After the brackets are on the unit, the four table mounting holes provide a VESA 100 mm X 200 mm pattern.

Power supply bracket

An optional power supply bracket kit is available for MPX 1450/1550 extender systems. This bracket may be used to affix to the external power adaptor to the chassis of the MPX 1450/1550 receiver.

Figure 2.13: MPX 1450/1550 Power Supply Bracket

To install the power supply bracket:

1. Using the screws provided, attach the bracket to the side of the MPX 1450/1550 receiver chassis. Do not attach the top screw at this time.

2. Place the power supply into the bracket.

3. Fasten the bracket to the top of the MPX 1450/1550 chassis using the provided screw.

4. Use tie wraps if needed to neatly contain excess AC and DC line cords.

Initiating a Media Session

Your MPX extender system is now ready for a media session.

38 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

The following steps allow you to verify proper operation of your transmitter, access points and receivers, establish an Active EDID string at the MPX transmitter and test compatibility of your source and display devices through the extender system.

To establish your first media session across the extender system:

1. Turn off all MPX transmitters, receivers, access points, source device and display devices.

2. Attach your display device to the primary MPX receiver using an appropriate cable.

NOTE: If your displaydevice does not support DDC2B or if a cable or video switching device prevents the normal flow of EDID information acrossthe DDC bus, then the source device willnot know what resolutions are supported by the attached primary display device. In thiscase, the allowed resolutions may need to be set up manually in the transmitter.

3. Turn on the display device.

4. Turn on the primary MPX receiver and any access points connected to it.

NOTE: This sequence for turning on the units ensures that proper EDID information is stored in the MPX transmitter before the source device attempts to read it. The order in which you turn on the units is only important during initial configuration and setup. If you must replace a field-installed MPX transmitter with another unit, these same steps should be used to properly establish valid EDID information in the new unit.

5. Attach the source device to the MPX transmitter using an appropriate cable.

6. Turn on the MPX transmitter.

7. Wait for the MPX receiver to bind with the MPX transmitter, as previously described.

8. Turn on your source device and make sure the source device is providing audio and video content.

9. Active video should appear on the display device attached to the MPX receiver within 30 seconds of the source device initializing.

Chapter 2: Installation 39

40 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Operation

Status Monitoring

The web interface provides two pages for system monitoring: the Connection Status page and the Media LAN Performance page. The Connection Status page offers a status table for the transmitter and a separate table for each receiver.

Connection status

The Connection Status page in the Transmitter Menu displays the operational status of the transmitter and all bound receivers. The content on this page dynamically refreshes every five seconds. Some functions listed are specific to the transmitters or receivers. The following table describes the status information that is provided for MPX transmitters (Tx), MPX receivers (Rx) or both. Access points behave like transmitters in the table.

Table 3.1: Connectio n Status Page Information

Field Tx/Rx Description

Device Name

Both

Provides a name for an MPX transmitter or receiver for ease of identification within the web interface.

Control LAN MAC Address

Both

L1 MAC address(control LAN) of the transmitter or receiver, also printed on an external label on the unit.

Wired Media LAN MAC Address

Tx L2 MAC address(media LAN) of the transmitter.

Serial Number

Tx The serial number assigned to the transmitter or receiver.

Field Tx/Rx Description

OEM ID Tx

The OEM identifier assigned to the transmitter or receiver. This information may be required for technicalsupport but is not required for normal use of the product.

Country Code

Both The country code for the product.

Product Type

Both The product type for the unit; for example: MPX 1450/1550R.

Operational Status

Both

For transmitters, this field will indicate the number of bound/active receivers. For receivers, thisfield will indicate if the receiver is currently connected to a transmitter. For all units, this field will provide Flash upgrade status.

Session Transmitter Device Name

Rx The device name of transmitter to which this receiver is currently bound.

Wireless Channel Number

Both The wireless channel number in use. Only displayed on wireless extensionnetworks.

A/V Source Type

Tx Type of source device: HDMI, DVI-D, RGB and Component.

A/V Source Resolution

Resolution, such as 1024 x 768 @ 60 Hz, of the source device. An asteriskafter the field name (A/V Source Resolution*) indicates that a non-standard resolution has been detected and is currently in use.

A/V Encoder Running

Tx An indication that video is being encoded and transmitted in real-time.

A/V Source Error

Tx Helpful diagnosticmessages; for example: No video detected at source or similar error.

Primary Video Resolutions

Tx A list of all resolutions that the primary receiver has reported to the transmitter.

Video Resolutions in Use

Tx A list of resolutionsthat have been reported to the source device by the primary display.

RGB Video Resolutions Stored

Resolutions that are currently stored in the Active EDID string of the transmitter. This field is present for RGB displaydevicesonly.

40 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Field Tx/Rx Description

Signal Strength Indication

An indication of the wireless signal strength on the receiver. Onlydisplayed on wirelessA/V networks. Ranges from 0 to 100, with 0 representing weak signal strength and 100 representing maximum signalstrength. A graphicaldisplay is also provided as follows: Poor signal quality– no bars or one red bar; Passable signal quality – a red bar and one or two yellow bars (signalquality should be improved); Good signal quality – a red bar, two yellow bars and one or two green bars .

Frame Rate Rx

The video frame rate on the receiver. With no lost frames, the frame rate will alternate between 29 and 30 frames per second. Wireless bandwidth contention and poor signal qualitymay result in lower frame rates.

MPX status LEDs

MPX transmitters, access points and receivers feature five front-panel LEDs whose sequences convey operational states and status information. The following diagram illustrates the order and color of the LEDs:

Figure 3.1: MPX LED Status Indicators

Table 3.2: MPXLEDDescriptions

Number Description

1 Red

2 Amber-1

Chapter 3: Operation 41

Number Description

3 Amber-2

4 Green-1

5 Green-2

NOTE: When an LED is described as flashing, it is flashing on and off at a rate of four flashes per second. When an LED is described as Blinking, it is blinking on and off at a slower rate of 1.5 seconds per blink. When an LED is described as On Solid, it is continuouslyilluminated and is neither blinking nor flashing.

Power initialization status

During system initialization, the LEDs will turn on from left to right until they are all illuminated. Then, the LEDs will turn off from right to left until they are all off. This pattern repeats throughout the system initialization process.

If a Power On Self Test (POST) error occurs, a specific error pattern is displayed that will differ from the normal initialization pattern. Please make note of the pattern prior to contacting Avocent technical support.

Wireless operation status (MPX 1550 extender system only)

If no connection exists, a two-step searching pattern sequence is displayed. Green-1 and Green2 will alternate; all other LEDs remain off.

If a connection to one or more receivers does exist, MPX 1450/1550 transmitters or access points will illuminate all five front-panel LEDs.

If a connection to a transmitter does exist, MPX 1550 receivers display the current signal level (0-5) by the LEDs. Higher numbers indicate stronger signals. The following table correlates LED patterns to signalstrength.

Table 3.3: LED Status - Wireless Connection

Signal Level Red Amber-1 Amber-2 Green-1 Green-2

0 OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF

1 ON OFF OFF OFF OFF

2 ON ON OFF OFF OFF

3 ON ON ON OFF OFF

42 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Signal Level Red Amber-1 Amber-2 Green-1 Green-2

4 ON ON ON ON OFF

5 ON ON ON ON ON

Wired operation status

If no connection exists, Green-1 and Green-2 will alternate in a search pattern while all other LEDs remain off.

If a connection to one or more receivers does exist, the following pattern is displayed on transmitters or access points (if a connection to a transmitter does exist, MPX receivers show the same pattern as below).

Table 3.4: LED Status - Wired Connection

Signal Red Amber-1 Amber-2 Green-1 Green-2

5 OFF ON ON ON ON

Reset button status

You may perform multiple levels of reset using the recessed button on the front panel of the receiver. As you continue to hold the button, the LED pattern will change, reflecting the action to be performed. The same reset functions are available on the MPX transmitters and access points.

The various LED patterns are described in the following table.

Table 3.5: LEDStatus - Reset

LED Pattern

Hold time

Interpretation

Rate: two blinks

per second

.25 - 5

seconds

If the reset button is released now, the MPX receiver resets and reboots without

changing any configuration parameters.

Rate: four flashes

per second

5 - 10

seconds

If the reset button is released now, the MPX receiver resets its login password to

factory default, then resets and reboots.

Rate: ten flashes

per second

>10

seconds

If the reset button is released now, the MPX receiver resets all configuration

parameters to factory defaults, then resets and reboots.

Chapter 3: Operation 43

Flash upgrade status

LED indicators provide the following status information during the Flash upgrade process.

Table 3.6: LED Status - Flash upgrade

Flash upgrade State

LEDActivity

Progress

Green-2 LED flashing indicates that the Flash upgrade is in progress. While this LED is flashing, one or more of the green or amber LEDs will be solid or blinking to indicate the progress of the Flash upgrade.

Failed

Red LED flashing indicates failure of the update procedure. If you are unable to identify the source of the failure, please contact Avocent technical support.

Rear status LEDs

MPX receivers feature two green LEDs on the rear panel. The following diagram illustrates the order and color of the LEDs.

Figure 3.2: MPX Receiver Rear LED Status Indicators

Table 3.7: MPXReceiver Rear LEDStatu s Indicators Descriptions

Number Description

ST-1; if blinking, it indicates a system boot. If solid, a media LANis established.

44 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Number Description

ST-2; if off, a connection with a transmitter/access point is not

established. If blinking slowly, the signal level = 1. If blinking quickly,

the signal level = 2 or 3. If solid, the signal level = 4 or 5.

NOTE: ST-1 and ST-2 LEDs can sometimes work concurrently. If they are alternating, the receiver is searching for a transmitter/access point. If blinking slowly, a firmware upgrade is in progress. If blinking quickly, a firmware upgrade error has occurred.

System Tuning

Audio

MPX 1450/1550 extender system units offer embedded HDMI digital audio as well as unbalanced analog audio via left and right RCA jacks. Analog audio is sampled at 48 Khz, which is CD quality audio.

Because transmitters and receivers need not be configured for the same media type, a variety of mixed configurations are possible. The following sections describe some considerations regarding these configurations.

Digital source device considerations

When media is received from an HDMI source, the MPX transmitter ignores the external analog audio jacks and passes the embedded digital audio signal. When a DVI-D media is received, the transmitter accepts audio input from the RCA jacks. In both cases, audio will be output by the receiver in the form of embedded digital audio and external analog audio.

NOTE: If HDMI embedded audio is sampled at 96 KHz, analog output at the receiver will be disabled. Digital audio willcontinue normally.

Analog source device considerations

When receiving video from an analog source device, an MPX transmitter inputs audio from its dual RCA jacks. An MPX receiver that is bound to this transmitter will output embedded audio to an HDMI display device and simultaneously output analog audio on its dual RCA jacks.

When analog video devices are attached to both the transmitter and receiver, audio will be present only on the dual RCA jacks.

Video

For video troubleshooting tips, see Fine tuning suggestions on page 77.

Chapter 3: Operation 45

Transmitter/access point tuning parameters

Controls provided on the Tuning Parameters page in the Transmitter Menu, as illustrated in the following figure, allow you to fine tune the operation of your extender system.

Figure 3.3: Transmitter Tuning Parameters - Basic Settings

To properly tune the video data rate settings, it is important to understand that the bandwidth capacity of the wireless media LAN is continually shifting, with data capacity expanding and contracting as moving objects interact with the radio transmission. Most LAN bandwidth is used for transmission of video data, consisting of real-time video (data that is being sent for the first time) and retransmitted data. Under ideal conditions, the LAN is filled with real-time data. Under adverse conditions, such as RF interference, receivers may only capture a portion of the real-time data, forcing receivers to request retransmission of the missing data. The transmitter/access point will attempt to service these retransmission requests even as real-time data is being sent to other receivers.

To ensure an acceptable video frame rate and image quality, the transmitter/access point is able to dynamically detect shifting conditions and alter its processing of real-time and retransmitted data as needed to accommodate. To allow increased headroom for retransmitted data, real-time data can, depending on user-defined limits, be more highly compressed. Likewise, the amount of retransmitted data can be metered within pre-defined bounds to prevent isolated obstructions from affecting non-obstructed receivers.

46 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

The default tuning parameter values are designed to maintain a reasonable balance between image quality and frame rate across all receivers. Depending on whether frame rate or image quality are more important, you can tune these parameters to meet the needs of you particular application.

In addition to wireless LAN tuning parameters, the MPX transmitter/access point provides video tuning parameters. All of these settings, which are available via the Tuning Parameters and Source Device Settings pages, are described in later sections.

The transmitter offers a full complement of basic and advanced settings for tuning performance over the media LAN. An access point provides a subset of these same tuning parameters as appropriate to the access point's capabilities.

Setting Description

Wireless/Wired Video Data Rate

These settings allow the MPX transmitter to dynamically adjust the degree of compression

applied to real-time video data. The actual data rate at any given time will fall between the

maximum and minimum data rate values, unless the image requires less than the minimum data

rate (such as a screen that is mostly black or white).

High data rates consume more bandwidth and result in the sharpest possible image. Lower data

rates result in a softened image that requires less bandwidth.

During moments of interference, there may be insufficient bandwidth for the transmitter to

maintain 30 frames per second at the maximum data rate while servicing requests for lost data.

The minimum data rate setting determines how the transmitter responds to this condition.

Setting this parameter to a high value will cause the transmitter to drop frames as needed to

maintain the sharpest possible image. Setting this parameter to a low value will cause the

transmitter to soften images as needed to maintain the highest possible frame rate.

Maximum rates for wireless media sessions(MPX 1550 transmitter only) include integer values

of up to 50 Mbps in 1-to-many topology mode and 110 Mbps in 1-to-1 topology mode. Maximum

rates for wired media sessions include integer values of up to 70 Mbps.

Content Type

The MPX transmitter supports two compression algorithms. One algorithm is geared toward

computer graphics. Office automation tools such as presentation or spreadsheet applications,

as well as cameras and digital video players, willbenefit from this setting. The other compression

algorithm is geared toward motion video. Select the algorithm that is best suited for your primary

application.

Table 3.8: Transmitter Tuning Parameters - Basic Settings

Chapter 3: Operation 47

Setting Description

Luma-Chroma

Percentages

This parameter affects the way in which the transmitter processesluma and chroma information

in the input video stream. See Fine tuning suggestions on page 77 for more information.

Experiment with the slider bar to find the settings that work best for yourapplication.

Transmitter Retry Limit

This parameter sets an upper bound on the percentage of available media LAN bandwidth that

a transmitter will allocate for servicing of retransmitted data.

If you click Show Default Values, the page will be updated to display factory default values. To save these values, click Apply.

If you click More Settings, additional parameters will be displayed. These additional parameters allow you to alter the ramp up and down rates. Under most conditions, these settings should not be required. Should the basic tuning parameters be insufficient to resolve issues in your environment, contact Avocent technical support for additional suggestions.

Receiver tuning parameters

The Tuning Parameters page in the Receiver Menu, as illustrated in the following figure, allows fine adjustments to be made to audio and video signal timing.

Figure 3.4: Receiver Tu ning Parameters

It is also possible to restrict the amount of retransmission data that a receiver will request. Since an access point provides an inbound media interface, it offers a subset of these receiver tuning parameters.The following table provides an overview of receiver tuning parameters.

48 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Table 3.9: Receiver Tuning Parameters

Setting Description

Receiver Video Latency

The MPX transmitter places a timestamp on audio and video data to ensure proper lipsynch across all bound receivers. Audio and video output willbe synchronized across all display devices as long as the devices themselves introduce equivalent latency prior to display. Introduction of scalers, converters or other active processing devicesbetween the output of an MPX receiver and its associated display device may cause a noticeable video or audio lag when compared to other receivers. With this parameter, it is possible to mimic this delay on other receivers, thus bringing all display devicesinto synchronization.

Receiver Audio Latency

Default value for this parameter is 200 ms. This delay provides an elastic buffer of roughly seven frames, allowing receivers to remain in lock step even if lost packets need to be retransmitted. Reducing receiver latencybelow the default of 200 ms may compromise synchronization across receivers. However, in applications consisting of one or two receivers, it may be desirable to reduce this value if the primary application involves mouse-driven presentations that are sensitive to latency. If choppy video occurs on one or more receivers, raise the value until smooth video is obtained.

Receiver Retry Limit

This parameter limits the amount of retransmitted data that a receiver is able to request from a transmitter/access point.

Serial Control

Serial passthrough allows data to be sent from a device attached to the serial port of a transmitter to device(s) attached to the serial port of the primary receiver or all bound receivers. Data arriving at the serial port of the primary receiver will be forwarded to the transmitter and made available to the device attached to its serial port. Serial data is passed in real-time and is not buffered for subsequent reading.

Serial passthrough modes are enabled via the transmitter's web interface. Serial port settings, such as baud rate, flow control, data size, stop bits and parity are also configurable only via the transmitter’s web interface. When serial passthrough is enabled, these settings are forwarded to all receiver units within the extender network.

Serial settings on all serially attached devices must correspond with the serial settings established via the transmitter's web interface.

• If simple passthrough is selected, data received at the transmitter's serial port will be broadcast through the extender network to all bound receivers and to all serially attached display devices.

Chapter 3: Operation 49

• If primary only passthrough is selected, data received at the transmitter's serial port will be sent only to the primary receiver. This mode allows bi-directional communication with a single device. You can switch serial control from one receiver to another by clicking the Primary radio button on the Bindings page. In addition to serial connectivity, IR control and EDID passing are tied to the primary receiver, so it is important to consider the full impact of selecting a new primary receiver.

• If serial passthrough is disabled, then serial data received at the transmitter's serial port will be ignored.

• If any passthrough mode is enabled and a primary receiver is selected, then data received from the device attached to the serial port of the primary receiver will be forwarded across the extender network to the MPX transmitter and to the device attached to its serial port.

• If a primary receiver is not selected and serial passthrough is enabled, then serial data will be broadcast from the transmitter to all bound receivers; however, bi-directional transfers will not be available.

• All serial settings must be made via the transmitter's web interface. The receiver's web interface does not offer serial configuration options.

The following figure illustrates the basic flow of serial data among MPX extender system units and attached devices.

50 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Figure 3.5: Serial Passthrough Mode

Table 3.10: Serial Passthrough Mode Descriptions

Number Item

1 Serial Device Source

2 MPXTransmitter

3 Serial Data from Transmitter to Receiver

4 MPX Receiver

5 Primary MPX Receiver

6 Serial Data from Display via Primary Receiver

Chapter 3: Operation 51

Use the Serial Passthrough parameters section on the Serial Settings page in the Transmitter Menu to specify the serial mode and settings.

To configure serial passthrough modes:

1. Select Serial Settings in the Transmitter Menu, located on the left side of the web interface.

2. Choose one of the following Serial Passthrough Modes from the drop-down list:

a. Disabled: Serial ports on the transmitter and receiver units are not used.

b. Simple passthru: Serial data received at the transmitter's serial port will be broadcast to

all bound receivers. Serial data will be sent only from the primary receiver to the transmitter.

c. Primary only: Serial data received at the transmitter's serial port will be sent only to

the primary receiver. Serial data will be sent only from the primary receiver to the transmitter.

3. Choose the serial baud rate for the local serial port from the Baud Rate drop-down list. Baud rates up to 38.4K are supported. For baud rates over 9600, it is best to use RTS/CTS hardware flow control.

4. Choose the serial data size for the local serial port from the Data Size drop-down list.

5. Choose the number of serial stop bits for the local serial port from the Stop Bit drop-down list.

6. Choose the serial parity for the local serial port from the Parity drop-down list.

7. Choose the serial flow control for the local serial port from the Flow Control drop-down list.

8. Apply the changes.

IR Control

MPX transmitters and receivers include an IR(Rx) port and an IR(Tx) port. MPX 1450/1550 transmitters and receivers feature a 2.5 mm jack for connection of an optional external IR receiver and a 3.5 mm jack for connection of an external dual IR(Tx) emitter. IR control strings generated from a remote controller may be forwarded across the extender network or locally forwarded from the IR(Rx) port to the IR(Tx) port on the same MPX extender system unit.

IR extension permits a presenter to control a source device from the location of the display device. Local loopback of IR data permits an administrator to manage display devices from the equipment rack and/or a presenter to control a display device from the location of the display.

52 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

IR data is broadcast across the extender network from an MPX transmitter to all bound receivers. Bi-directional IR data is limited to the transmitter and the primary receiver.

NOTE: For clarity, the flow of IR data from the IR(Rx) port to the IR(Tx) port on the same MPX extender system unit is referred to as IR local loopback and the flow of IR data acrossthe extender network is called IR extension.

IR functionality works as follows:

• When turned on, an MPX transmitter will forward IR data detected at its IR(Rx) receiver to all bound receivers across the extender network. This flow cannot be disabled.

• When an MPX receiver is selected as the primary receiver, IR data detected at its IR(Rx) receiver will be forwarded across the extender network to the MPX transmitter, where it will be emitted to the source device through the dual emitter. This IR data will not be forwarded to other MPX receivers and this flow cannot be disabled.

• The web interface of each unit offers an IR Local Loopback setting. This setting affects IR local loopback only. Altering this setting has no effect upon the flow of IR data across the extender network.

The following figure illustrates the flow of IR data from the MPX transmitter to a single MPX receiver. This data is received by all bound receivers.

NOTE: In the next three figures, 1 represents the IR(Rx) port and 2 represents the IR(Tx)port.

Chapter 3: Operation 53

Figure 3.6: IR Flow: Transmitter to Receiver

The following figure illustrates the flow of IR data from the primary MPX receiver to the MPX transmitter. This allows a presenter to send control strings, such as play/pause, to source devices from the location of the display device. A single IRB-100 dual emitter is supplied with the MPX transmitter. Should it be necessary to control more than two source devices, Avocent offers the IRB-Y splitter, which allows two IRB-100 dual emitters to be attached to a single MPX transmitter. Additional IRB-100 emitters may be purchased separately. The MPX transmitter and receiver are both capable of driving up to 4 emitters (two IRB-100s) each.

54 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Figure 3.7: IR Flow: Primary Receiver to Transmitter

The following figure illustrates local looping of IR commands. This allows source or display devices to be controlled locally.

Chapter 3: Operation 55

Figure 3.8: IR Lo op back

NOTE: IR data looped locally within an MPX transmitter or the primary receiver is also sent normallyacross the

extender network. IR data looped locally on a receiver other than the primary receiver will not be forwarded to the extender network.

NOTE: The MPX extender system provides contention handling to prevent the inadvertent mixing of IR extension data with IR loopback data. For thisreason, the localIR loopback function at an MPX receiver is temporarily disabled while the unit is processing IR data received from the MPX transmitter. Similarly, if IR blaster mode is enabled on a receiver, any IR data sent from the transmitter to that receiver is ignored (and not emitted) by that receiver while it is emitting IR data detected locally by its own IR receiver port. Should contention occur, repeat the ignored IR command via the remote control.

Configuring IR control

Use the IR Blaster section on the Configuration page in the Transmitter or Receiver menu to enable or disable local IR loopback. IR extension is unaffected by this setting.

To configure IR control on a transmitter:

1. Select Serial Settings in the Transmitter Menu.

2. Choose one of the following IR Local Loopback modes from the drop-down list:

a. Disabled: IR local loopback is disabled.

56 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

b. Enabled: IR local loopback is enabled.

3. Apply the changes.

Regardless of the IR blaster mode setting, all IR data received by the local IR receiver port on the transmitter is forwarded to the IRtransmit ports of all connected receivers.

To configure IR control on a receiver:

1. Select Serial Settings in the Receiver Menu.

2. Choose one of the following IR Local Loopback modes from the drop-down list:

a. Disabled: IR local loopback is disabled.

b. Enabled: IR local loopback is enabled.

3. Apply the changes.

Advanced Source Device Settings

The More Settings button on the Source Device Settings page in the Transmitter Menu provides advanced controls for video positioning and clock phase adjustment for RGBsource devices.

NOTE: With the exception of Reset Image Settings, the advanced settings are only valid during an active RGB video session.

The following settings are available:

• Horizontal Position: This control can be used to adjust the horizontal position of the image on the display. The image can be moved up to 255 pixels left or right. Click Apply to activate and store the setting.

• Vertical Position: This control can be used to adjust the vertical position of the image on the display. The image can be moved up to seven lines up or down. Click Apply to activate and store the setting.

• Phase: This control can be used to adjust the clock of the input video. Adjusting this setting can improve the sharpness of objects such as text and box shapes. Click Apply to activate and store the setting.

• Auto Image Adjust: This control will cause the transmitter to analyze the incoming video stream and attempt to find the ideal settings.

NOTE: Before selecting this option, ensure that the screen image is not black.

1. Reset Image Settings: Use this setting to restore default settings if the results of selecting Auto Image Adjust are not acceptable.

Chapter 3: Operation 57

Figure 3.9: Transmitter Advanced Source Device Settings

Displaying Firmware and Hardware Versions

The Version Information page is used to display the firmware and hardware version numbers. This page is the same for transmitters and receivers.

To display version information:

1. Select Version Information in the Transmitter Menu or Receiver Menu.

2. Check the version numbers and decide whether to proceed with a Flash upgrade. The Firmware and Hardware Versions page displays the information described in the following table.

Table 3.11: Firmware and Hardware Versions Page Information

Field Description

Device Name Transmitter, accesspoint or receiver name

MAC Address

L1 MAC address(control LAN) of the transmitter, accesspoint or receiver, also

printed on an external label on the unit

58 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Field Description

Main Application

Firmware Version

Displays the current main application firmware version

Front Panel Firmware

Version

Displays the current front panel firmware version

Bootloader Firmware

Version

Displays the current bootloader firmware version

Main Board Hardware

Version

Displays the current main board hardware version. This will not change when a firmware update is performed.

Firmware version checking

Select Version Information in the Transmitter Menu or Receiver Menu. Make note of the firmware version of the transmitter and each bound receiver. Visit the Avocent web site at www.avocent.com to review the available upgrades. A firmware upgrade can be performed if the firmware on the Avocent web site is a higher revision than the version that is currently on each of the transmitters or receivers.

Upgrading MPX firmware

The Firmware Upgrade page in the Transmitter Menu is used to download and install new firmware. The web interface provides a means to upgrade the transmitter/access point and all bound receivers. You must perform this procedure from the transmitter's web interface to use the multi-units upgrade feature. You can also upgrade an MPX receiver via its own web interface.

Although the upgrade process may be initiated during an active media session, it is recommended to disconnect the source device from the MPX transmitter prior to starting the upgrade process. This provides additional resources and a faster upgrade process. Resources may be freed by reducing the Maximum Video Data Rate to a low value such as 10 Mbps. This setting is accessed via the Tuning Parameters page in the Transmitter Menu. Be sure to return this setting to its prior value after the upgrade is complete.

Initiating an upgrade

The following steps describe how to upgrade a transmitter and any bound receivers. If access points are used, it is important to navigate to each access point from the Transmitter Menu to upgrade that access point and all of its bound receivers first. This is because the multi-unit firmware upgrade feature only works across two layers. A transmitter can upgrade firmware of a

Chapter 3: Operation 59

bound access point, but it cannot upgrade firmware of any receivers connected to that access point.

To download the upgrade file:

1. Select Firmware Upgrade from the Transmitter Menu.

2. Type the IP address of the TFTP server from which you are downloading the new Flash image. By default, this will be the address of the server making the request.

NOTE: TFTP is used to download the image file; to do this, it must be properly configured on the server.

3. Type the full path name of the image file to be downloaded.

NOTE: You may need to specify the file name relative to the server’sTFTP root directory.

NOTE: It is possible for a receiver or an access point to reach the TFTP server through the transmitter.

4. Apply the changes. If you provided valid parameters, the Flash upgrade process starts downloading the image file.

NOTE: Do not turn off the transmitter while the download is in progress.

The following figure illustrates the multi-unit firmware upgrade feature, which launches automatically. Using this page, you may select one or more MPX extender system units for upgrade.

To upgrade MPX units:

1. Select the Update checkbox for the Transmitter Menu if you wish to upgrade its firmware.

2. The receiver selection window allows you to select options to update all receivers, only those receivers with mismatched firmware, or manually selected receivers. Make your selection as appropriate.

3. Once the appropriate units are selected, click the Install button to initiate the upgrade.

4. Click Cancel, if necessary, to return to the main Firmware Upgrade page. Do not turn off the unit because it may not recover.

60 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Figure 3.10: Transmitter Firmware Upgrade

Flash upgrade progress

The web interface offers on-going status updates throughout the upgrade process. Progress is reported in terms of percentage of completion of each step.

Flash upgrade status LEDs

While the receiver is upgrading Flash memory, the LEDs show the current state of the Flash upgrade. See MPX status LEDs on page 41 for more information. Each LED has a specific pattern as follows:

• Green-2: Flashes to indicate that the upgrade is in progress and that it has not failed. While this LED is flashing, one or more of the Green-1, Amber-2 or Amber-1 LEDs will be solid or blinking to indicate the progress of the Flash upgrade.

Chapter 3: Operation 61

• Green-1: Blinks while file download is in progress. It will turn solid after download has completed.

• Amber-2: Blinks while erase or Flash of the boot image is in progress. It will turn solid after the boot image Flash has successfully completed.

• Amber-1: Blinks while erase or Flash of the application image is in progress. It will turn solid after the application image Flash has successfully completed.

• Red: Flashes to indicate that an error has occurred. All other LEDs are off while this LED is flashing.

NOTE: If an error occurs at any point in the Flash upgrade processand you receive an error message, click Restart to tryagain.

System Reboot

The System Reboot page is displayed when you select Reboot in the Transmitter Menu or Receiver Menu.

To reboot a transmitter or receiver:

1. Click Reboot Now.

2. The reboot process will begin. A message indicates that the system reboot is in progress.

NOTE: During the reboot process, system settings are retained.

Reset to Factory Defaults

The Reset to Factory Defaults page is displayed when selected in the Transmitter Menu or Receiver Menu.

To re-initialize a transmitter or receiver:

1. Click Re-Initialize Now.

2. The re-initialization process will begin. A message indicates that the re-initialization is in progress.

NOTE: Resetting to factory defaults will erase all configuration information.

62 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Appendix A: Technical Support

Our Technical Support staff is ready to assist you with any installation or operational issues you encounter with your Avocent product. If an issue should develop, follow the steps below for the fastest possible service.

To resolve an issue:

1. Check the pertinent section of this manual to see if the issue can be resolved by following the procedures outlined.

2. Visit www.avocent.com/support and use one of the following resources:

Search the knowledge base or use the online service request.

-or-

Select Technical Support Contacts to find the Avocent Technical Support location nearest you.

A P P E N D I C E S

Appendix B: System Definitions

The Emerge MPX extender system consists of one transmitter, up to eight access points and up to 64 receiver units. The following terms are used to identify common components.

Table B.1: Definitions for an MPX Extender System Solution

Term Definition

Access Point

An expansion unit for the MPXextender system that is situated between the

transmitter and up to eight receivers.

Active EDID

A merged EDID string that describes the subset of characteristicssupported by

the primary display device and the MPX transmitter.

Bound

Receiver

A receiver that is actively connected to a transmitter over a wired or wireless link.

Control LAN

A LAN interface on an MPX receiver or transmitter that allows accessto its onboard web interface. On MPX transmitters and accesspoints, this is labeled L1. On MPX receivers, a single LAN port, indicated by the LANsymbol, provides the combined functionsof media LAN and control LAN.

Default EDID

Factory default EDID information stored in an MPX transmitter, which describes

the supported video characteristics of the transmitter.

Display

Device

Video projector, plasma, LCD display or other displaydevice.

EDID

Extended DisplayIdentification Data: A Video ElectronicsStandards Association

(VESA) standard data format that contains basicinformation about a display

device and its capabilities, including vendor information, maximum image size,

color characteristics, factory pre-set timings, frequencyrange limits and

character strings for the monitor name and serial number.

Extender

Group

A term denoting an MPX transmitter and access point and allof its bound

receivers, whether wired orwireless.

Extender

Network

A term denoting a wired or wirelessmedia LAN.

HDCP

High-Bandwidth DigitalContent Protection (HDCP) is a form of digital rights

management used to secure digital audio and video content .

64 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Term Definition

IR Blaster

Dual IR emitter that connects to the IR(Tx) port of the transmitter or the receiver

and converts electrical signalsthat arrive at that port to IR signalsfor control of

source and display devices.

IR Extension Flow of IR data across the MPX extender system.

IR Local

Loopback

Flow of IR data from the IR(Rx) receiver to the IR(Tx) port on the same unit.

IR Remote Remote control that transmits device control information using an infrared LED.

IR(Rx) port

An infrared receiver port located on the front panel of MPXtransmitters and

receivers in the form of a 2.5 mm mini jack. An optional receiver may be attached

to transmitters or receivers via this port.

IR(Tx) port

An infrared emitter port located on the front panel of MPXtransmitters and

receivers.

Media LAN

A LAN port on an MPX receiver or transmitter that serves as an interface for a

wired network for transmission of A/V media. This port is labeled L2 on MPX

transmitters and indicated by a LAN symbol on receivers. The Media LAN and

Control LAN functions share the same port on receivers. On accesspoints, the

inbound Media LAN and Control LAN functions share the L1 port, while the

outbound Media LAN uses the L2 port.

MPX

Extender

System

A genericterm denoting an MPX transmitter, accesspoint or receiver.

Primary

Display

Device

A display device attached to the primary MPX receiver.

Primary EDID

EDID information received from the primary displaydevice, which describes the

characteristics of the display device.

Appendices 65

Term Definition

Primary

Receiver

A single MPX receiver that you specify as the primary receiver during

configuration for each system. Only the primary receiver reports EDID

information back to the transmitter and source device. T he primary receiver is

the only receiver capable of bi-directional IR transfers and bi-directional RS-232

serial transfers with the MPX transmitter.

Receiver

An MPX extender system unit that inputs media from a transmitter, decrypts,

uncompresses, converts and manipulates the data back into the desired format

and outputs it to the connected supported displaydevices.

Source

Device

Computer, HD-DVD or other source of A/V content.

Transmitter

An MPX extender system unit that inputs media from a source device, encrypts,

compresses and transmits the content to an MPX receiver. MPX transmitters

also provide a backchannel for transmission of control data backto a source

device.

Transmitter

Number

An attribute of a transmitter that enables multiple extender groups to co-exist on

the same wired media LAN.

Universal A/V

Port

A DVI-I media input or output port on a transmitter or receiver that can be

configured to support a range of video formats, including HDMI, DVI-D, DVI-A,

RGB and Component.

Wired Link

A 10/100 Mbps wired Ethernet connection between a transmitter and bound

receivers/access points, or between an access point to bound receivers.

WirelessLink

An wireless connection between an MPX transmitter or access point and bound

receivers (supported on the MPX 1550 extender system only).

66 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Appendix C: Supported ISO Country Codes

Table C.2: MPX Extender System Supported ISO Country Codes

Country ISO Code

Country

ISO Code

North America

Malta MT

United States US

Netherlands NL

Canada CA

Norway NO

Europe

Poland PL

Austria AT

Portugal PT

Belgium BE

Russia RU

Cyprus CY

Slovakia SK

Czech Republic CZ

Slovenia SI

Denmark DK Spain

Estonia EE

Sweden SE

Finland FI

Switzerland CH

France FR

Turkey TR

Germany DE

UK GB

Greece GR

Asia / Pacific

Hungary HU

Australia AU

Ireland IE

China (PRC) CN

Italy IT

Hong Kong HK

Latvia LV

India IN

Lithuania LT

Indonesia ID

Luxembourg LU

Japan JP

Appendices 67

Country ISO Code

Country

ISO Code

Korea KR Africa / Middle East

Malaysia MY Saudi Arabia SA

New Zealand NZ Dubai / UAE AE

Philippines PH Latin / South America

Singapore SG Argentina AR

Taiwan TW Brazil BR

Mexico MX

68 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Appendix D: Technical Specifications

Table D.3: MPX 1450/1550 Transmitter, Receiver and Access Point Product Specifications

Physical Attributes

Height 1.0"

Width 6.92"

Depth 4.55"

Ambient Atmospheric Condition Ratings

Operating Temperature 32°F - 104°F (0°C - 40°C)

Storage Temperature -04°F - 140°F (-20°C- 60°C)

Humidity

20% to 80% relative humidity(non-condensing) across the operating

temperaturerange

Altitude

10,000 ft across the operating temperature range; 35,000 ft across storage

temperature range

Shock 140 G - 3 axis

Power Supply

AC-input 100 - 240 VAC

AC Frequency 50 - 60 Hz

Inrush Current 14.2 Amps (AC/DC adaptor)

Connections (front)

2.5 mm Mini-jack IR input (optional IR-RX adaptor with 1m cable is required): 38 KHz +/- 2 KHz

3.5 mm Mini-jack

IR blaster output, 38 KHz +/- 2 KHz; the IR blaster port supports enough drive

current to handle four IR LEDs

RP-SMA Connector (2) Antenna connectors

USB USB 1.1 (Reserved for future use)

Appendices 69

Physical Attributes

Connections (rear)

Power DC barrel connector

Serial (RJ-45)

Dual serial port for control of attached display devices. Requires optional DB9-

DUAL female serial cable

LAN (RJ-45)

Ethernet connector 10/100 IEEE 802.3, used for streaming video and web

access

DVI-I A/V output port that supports a wide range of digital and analog video modes

RCA Jacks (2) Left and right jacksfor unbalanced analog audio

S/PDIF Digital audio output. Operation of this port may require a firmware upgrade

Video

Video Gain Unity ±1DB

Video Resolutions

(RGB)

Supports the following RGB video resolutions:

Computer (RGB) resolutions(at 30 frames per second):

640 x 480 @ 60 Hz

800 x 600 @ 60 Hz

1280 x 720 @ 60 Hz

1280 x 768 @ 60 Hz

1360 x 768 @ 60 Hz

SD video (RGB) resolutions (at 30 frames per second):

480 p @ 60 Hz

576 p @ 50 Hz

HD video (RGB) resolutions (at 30 frames per second):

720 p @ 50/60 Hz

70 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Physical Attributes

Video Resolutions(Component

Video)

SD video (Component) resolutions (at 30 frames per second):

480 i @ 60 Hz

480 p @ 60 Hz

576 i @ 50 Hz

576 p @ 50 Hz

HD video (Component) resolutions (at 30 frames per second):

720 p @ 50/60 Hz

1080 i @ 50/60 Hz

Video Resolutions

(HDMI and DVI-D)

Supports the following HDMI and DVI-D resolutions:

Computer resolutions(at 30 frames per second):

640 x 480 @ 60 Hz

800 x 600 @ 60 Hz

1280 x 720 @ 60 Hz

1280 x 768 @ 60 Hz

1360 x 768 @ 60 Hz

SD video resolutions (at 30 frames per second):

480 i @ 60 Hz

480 p @ 60 Hz

576 i @ 50 Hz

576 p @ 50 Hz

HD video resolutions (at 30 frames per second):

720 p @ 50/60 Hz

1080 i @ 50/60 Hz

Audio

Sensitivity Line audio inputs less than or equal to 10K Ohm with 0-36 db of headroom

Appendices 71

Physical Attributes

Frequency Response

Analog audio frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 Khz with a 3 dB per octave roll-

off beginning at 14 Khz

Supported Radio Bands (MPX 1550 extender system only)

UNII 1: (4 Channels) 5.15-5.25 GHz: channels bonded into two 40 GHz channels

UNII 2: (4 Channels) 5.25-5.35 GHz: channels bonded into two 40 GHz channels

UNII 3: (4 Channels) 5.725 to 5.825 GHz: channels bonded into two 40 GHz channels

Safety and EMC Approvals and Markings

Regulatory Compliance [Compliance Model Number (CMN): 2003 and 2004

Series]:

FCC Class B, UL, cUL, RoHS, CE, ICES-003, WEEE

72 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

Appendix E: Video Troubleshooting

The following troubleshooting tips should help resolve most common setup and initialization issues. If a problem persists, please contact Avocent technical support for additional help.

Available information

The Transmitter Status table on the Connection Status page in the Transmitter Menu offers additional information for video troubleshooting. If video is actively being processed by the transmitter, the A/V Source Resolution field indicates the current resolution. An asterisk appears after the field name (A/V Source Resolution*) if a non-standard resolution is detected.

Appendices 73

Figure E.1: Transmitter Status Table

If you click Help, the Transmitter Status table provides three additional fields:

74 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

• Primary Video Resolutions: This field contains a list of all resolutions reported to the transmitter by the primary receiver. These values come from the display device or from the Display Device Settings page in the Receiver Menu.

• Video Resolutions in Use: This field indicates the list of resolutions reported to the source device.

• RGB Video Resolutions Stored: This field indicates the resolutions currently stored in the Active EDID string of the transmitter.

The Source Device Settings page in the Transmitter Menu provides advanced settings for explicit control of image positioning (horizontal and vertical panning) and video clock phase adjustment.

The Transmitter Performance and Receiver Performance tables on the Media LAN Performance page in the Transmitter Menu provide real-time status updates of media LAN bandwidth utilization. The Current Video Data Rate is the target transmit data rate. This value should fall between the maximum data rate and the minimum data rate settings.

The Transmitted Total Bitrate is the amount of audio and video data transmitted per second since the last page update. Bitrate status for retransmitted data is also provided. The receiver table indicates the amount of real-time data received from the media LAN and the amount of retransmitted, recovered and lost data. Chronic status of missing data is a symptom of an adverse condition that should be diagnosed and resolved.

Common issues and solutions

Video is restricted to 640 x 480

This is an indication that the MPX transmitter has not received valid EDID information from the display device. Try the following actions to remedy the situation.

• It is possible that the source device obtained EDID information from the MPX transmitter before device information was obtained from the display device. To resolve this, follow the suggested sequence for turning on the units as provided in Initiating a Media Session on page 37.

• If the display device is not Plug and Play ready, it may not offer EDID information. The Display Device Settings page in the Receiver Menu will indicate if the display device is not Plug and Play ready. In this case, use the provided table to enable appropriate resolutions for the display device. Be careful not to enable resolutions that the display cannot support.

• The display device may have submitted an improperly formed EDID string. Should this happen, the transmitter will discard the entire string and the default EDID will remain in

Appendices 75

effect. In this case, use the Display Device Settings table to enable appropriate resolutions for the display device.

• Pins 12 and 15 of an RGB cable provide connectivity for DDC data and DDC clock, respectively. EDID information is passed via the DDC channel. The RGBcable may be damaged or unable to pass data on the DDCchannel. Verify proper operation of your RGB cable.

Video is not properly centered

This is an indication that the video resolution differs slightly from VESA standards. In this case, the MPX transmitter may not properly detect the start and end of the video frame. Use the advanced settings on the Source Device Settings page in the Transmitter Menu to properly center the image.

No video is visible

This is an indication that the display device is either not properly connected or is not compatible with the MPX extender system. The following steps may help to resolve this issue.

For all display devices:

• Launch your browser to the Connection Status page in the Transmitter Menu. Helpful error information may be displayed in the Transmitter Status table.

• Connect a display device directly to your source device. If active media is not displayed, resolve the issue before attempting to extend the signal. If active media is present, verify proper operation of any transmitter and receiver video cables and adaptors.

• Turn off all receivers other than the primary. Working with a reduced network will allow you to simplify the troubleshooting environment.

• View the resolution and frame rate information in Technical Specifications on page 69 to determine if your source device is operating within supported parameters.

• If you have selected wireless operation, select a different channel in the Media LAN Settings page in the Transmitter Menu to ensure that there is not a conflict with other nearby wireless devices.

• If you are using an MPX 1450 extender system, try using a wired media LAN to check for possible radio-relatedissues.

• Make sure that you have selected a primary receiver, which is responsible for generation of EDID information for the source device.

For HDMI or DVI-D display devices:

76 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

• Initiate a video hot-plug of the source and display devices to ensure that the EDID information has been read and transferred across the extender network.

• Determine if the source device is sending HDCPprotected content. If so, no video will be displayed because the system does not support HDCP protected content.

• If only one display is not working, try making it the primary display. Perform a hot-plug of the video connection (HDMI, RGB). If the problem is resolved and the displays are different models, there may be an incompatibility between the options these monitors support.

Fine tuning suggestions

The following table provides detailed instructions for tuning your MPX extender system units.

If your application requires only one receiver and you have not yet configured your transmitter for 1-to-1 topology, you should do so at this time. The Video Data Rate setting on the Tuning Parameters page may be used to increase visual acuity.

If you are fine tuning...

Then choose...

choppy video for a wired or wireless connection

Select Wireless Video Data Rate settings on the Tuning Parameters page in the

Transmitter Menu. See Transmitter/access point tuning parameters on page 46.

Choppy video is the result of lost data. The receiver will continue to output the last fully-

received frame untila complete new frame is received. This is not noticeable for a still

image, such as a spreadsheet, but it is particularly noticeable for a motion video. Audio

playbackrequires minimal bandwidth and typicallyplays smoothly, even when motion

video is choppy.

To restore smooth video playback, adjust the minimum data rate setting downward as

needed to obtain a constant frame rate of 24 fps or greater under adverse conditions.

Lowering the minimum setting allows you to maintain constant frame rate by slightly

softening the image during adverse media LAN conditions. As conditionsimprove, the

transmitter will graduallyraise the video data rate.

Retransmission requests may stem from a temporary signal blockage, such as a box

being placed in front of the transmitter. Wireless channel contention may also cause

data interference. If interference becomes chronic, you may want to consider antenna

extension cables or selection of a different wireless channel to relieve the condition.

Table E.4: Methods for Fine Tuning

Appendices 77

If you are fine tuning...

Then choose...

sharpness of computer graphics

Select Luma Chroma Percentages and Content Type on the Tuning Parameters

page in the Transmitter Menu. See Transmitter/access point tuning parameters on

page 46.

The luma chroma setting affectsthe way in which the transmitter processes luma and

chroma information in the input video stream. By default, 67% of the output stream is

dedicated to luma information and 33% of the output stream is dedicated to chroma

information. This ratio is well suited for a combination of motion video and some

computer graphics. For applications that are heavilyslanted toward still graphic

images with sharp edges, you may have better resultsby increasing luma to 80%.

Experiment with the slider bar to find the settings that work best for yourapplication.

Select Content Type to choose an encoding algorithm that is geared toward computer

graphics (still images) or motion video.

For RGB source devices, select Phase control on the Source Device Settings page in

the Transmitter Menu to optimize the sharpnessof objects such as text and box

shapes.

wireless channel

contention resulting

from other wireless

devices

Select a wirelesschannel from the drop-down list on the BasicLANSettings tab of the

Media LAN Settings page in the Transmitter Menu.

Channel contention arising from other devicesoperating in the same channel may

cause excessive dropped video frames. Selecting an unused channel will resolve this

issue.

Available channels may be selected from a drop-down list. The selected channel will

be used by the transmitter and bound receivers. Once changed, the media session will

drop and bound receivers will enter a search mode. After the transmitter is detected,

the session will continue normally.

78 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

If you are fine tuning...

Then choose...

wireless transmission

power settings

Adjust the T ransmit Power Attenuation field on the BasicLANSettings tab of the

Media LAN Settings page. This setting may be set separately for transmitters and

receivers.

The transmit power attenuation is determined by the transmitter’s Country Code

setting (MPX 1550 extender system only). Controls are provided to reduce transmit

power.

Higher transmit power attenuation reduces the range of a transmitter’s influence,

making the frequency available for the transmitter/receiver to use the same frequency

in neighboring rooms. Lower attenuation values allow for increased distance and wall

penetration between transmitters and receivers.

The default power setting may overdrive radio receivers when MPX transmitters and

receivers are positioned in close proximity to each other, within ten feet or less, as

might be the case during initial configuration and in small conference rooms. Over-

driven signalsmay result in lost frames or, in extreme cases, dropped connections. To

avoid such errors, select the highest attenuation setting that resultsin a stable,

acceptable image. Remember to raise transmit power levels when extender system

units are placed in their final locations.

Additional tips for RGB display devices

Display devices differ widely in their support of video resolution, refresh rates, color depth and other configurable features. To allow source and display devices to negotiate available settings in a Plug and Play manner, the industry has adopted a display data channel, or DDCstandard. The DDC standard supported by MPX extender systems is DDC2B. This standard is adhered to by most RGB, DVI, and HDMI display devices. Compliant display devices contain a PROM that can be read by a source device across a display data channel (DDC). The PROM contains formatted information about the capabilities of the display. This information is commonly referred to as Extended Display Information Data (EDID).

DVI-D and HDMI source devices will dynamically query this information when a display device hot-plug event is detected so displays are immediately available. However, most RGB computer source devices such as graphics cards query information only once they turn on. For this reason, it is particularly important that EDID information is passed through the extender network and assembled by the transmitter into the Active EDID string before the RGB source

Appendices 79

device is turned on. Therefore, the power sequence of MPX transmitters, receivers, access points, source devices and display devices iscritical when using an RGB source device.

NOTE: EDID information is maintained by the MPX transmitter in non-volatile storage so the order in which you turn on the unitsis important only during initialinstallation.

If you followed the recommended procedure for turning on the units and no video is visible at the display device, then the following tips may help to resolve any issues.

• When set for Plug and Play, MPX receivers are able to detect the presence of an RGB display device from the display's EDID information. If the display does not offer DDC/EDID support or if the MPX receiver is unable to read EDID information from the display, then you must select the Manual (RGB) option. Otherwise, the MPX receiver will assume that a display device is not present and will not establish a video session.

• The RGB source device may be operating at a resolution not supported by the MPX transmitter.

• If your source device is a laptop computer, toggle the video back to the laptop display

and check the resolution of the secondary monitor. To test the connection between the transmitter and the receiver, change the secondary monitor setting to 640 x 480 at 60 Hz resolution. Toggle the video to the RGB connector again. Video should appear within 30 seconds.

• If your source device is a desktop computer or server, then you must disconnect the

MPX transmitter from its RGB port and connect an RGB monitor in its place. It may be necessary to reboot the computer to establish video. Change the resolution to 640 x 480 at 60 Hz. After changing the resolution on the computer, turn it off and reconnect the MPX transmitter to the computer's RGB source. Turn on the computer.

• After you've obtained video at the 640 x 480 at 60 Hz resolution, change the

resolution on the RGB source to one of the other supported resolutions.

80 Emerge® MPX Extender System Installer/User Guide

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