Black Box 1122A, AC1120A, 1121A, 1123A User Manual
Models AC1120A 1121A 1122A 1123A *
16x16 and 8x8 VGA/HDTV Video Matrix Switch with
Front Panel, RS232, and Optional Audio & IP Control
* This user’s manual pertains to a number of Black Box 16x16 and
8x8 video matrix switches. Some models have audio switching
and IP control port, and some models do not.
CUSTOMER
SUPPORT
INFORMATION
Order toll-free in the U.S. 24 hours, 7 A.M. Monday to midnight Friday: 877-877-BBOX
FREE technical support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: Call 724-746-5500 or fax 724-746-0746
Mail order: Black Box Corporation, 1000 Park Drive, Lawrence, PA 15055-1018
Web site: www.blackbox.com • E-mail: info@blackbox.com
UMA1149 Rev. A
8x8 and 16x16 VGA / HDTV Matrix Switch with Audio, RS232 & IP Control
TRADEMARKS USED IN THIS MANUAL
BLACK BOX and its logo are registered trademarks of Black Box Corporation.
Any other trademarks mentioned in this manual are acknowledged to be the property
of the trademark owners.
FCC and Canadian Dept of Communications Radio Frequency
interference statements
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and if not
installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions, may cause interference to radio communication. It has been
designed to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device in accordance
with the specifications in Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference, in which case the
user at his own expense will be required to take whatever measures may be
necessary to correct the interference. Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority
to operate the equipment.
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class A limits for radio noise emission
from digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulation 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 A prescrites dans le
Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique publié par le ministère des
Communications du Canada.
European Union Declaration of Conformity
This product complies with the requirements of the European EMC directive
89/336/EEC
Normas Oficiales Mexicanas (NOM)
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Model AC1120A, AC1121A, AC1122A, AC1123A
Table of Contents
1.0 GENERAL..................................................................................................... 4
1.1 FEATURES.................................................................................................... 4
2.0 INSTALLATION.......................................................................................... 5
2.1 INPUT AUDIO & VIDEO CONNECTIONS ........................................................5
2.2 OUTPUT AUDIO & VIDEO CONNECTIONS..................................................... 6
2.3 POWER INPUT CONNECTION ......................................................................... 7
2.4 CONTROL INPUTS......................................................................................... 7
2.4.1 Matrix with RS-232 Control (no IP) .................................................... 7
2.4.1.1 Primary RS-232 Control Port .................................................................... 8
2.4.1.2 Auxiliary RS-232 Control Port.................................................................. 8
2.4.2 Units with IP control............................................................................ 9
3.0 OPERATION ................................................................................................ 9
3.1 FRONT-PANEL BUTTONS AND INDICATORS.................................................. 9
3.1.1 Viewing Audio and Video Routings or “Ties”................................... 10
3.1.1.1 Viewing ties by Video and Audio ........................................................... 10
3.1.1.2 Viewing ties by Video only..................................................................... 11
3.1.1.3 Viewing ties by Audio only..................................................................... 12
3.1.2 Making Audio and Video Routings or “Ties”.................................... 12
3.1.2.1 Making a tie by Input .............................................................................. 12
Video and Audio to follow each other................................................................. 12
Video only or Audio only.................................................................................... 13
3.1.2.2 Making a tie by Output............................................................................ 13
Video and Audio to follow each other................................................................. 13
Video only or Audio only.................................................................................... 13
3.1.3 Recalling Presets (routing patterns).................................................. 14
3.1.4 Saving Presets (routing patterns) ......................................................14
3.1.5 Disconnecting all AV outputs (blank preset) .....................................14
3.1.6 To reset system to factory defaults..................................................... 14
3.1.7 Using the Front Panel VU meter ....................................................... 14
3.2 CONTROL COMMANDS (RS-232 AND IP)................................................... 16
3.2.1 Naming Functions.............................................................................. 17
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8x8 and 16x16 VGA / HDTV Matrix Switch with Audio, RS232 & IP Control
3.2.2 Routing Functions.............................................................................. 17
3.2.2.1 To make a video tie: ................................................................................ 17
3.2.2.2 To make an audio tie: .............................................................................. 17
3.2.2.3 To make a synchronized audio/video tie: ................................................ 17
3.2.3 Preset Pattern Saving and Routing Functions................................... 18
3.2.3.1 To recall a saved preset Video routing pattern: ....................................... 18
3.2.3.2 To save the current Video routing pattern to a preset:............................. 18
3.2.4 Restoring Factory Defaults................................................................ 18
3.2.5 Rebooting the System ......................................................................... 18
3.2.6 To Read Audio Volume Units (VU) of output #1 ...............................19
3.2.7 To Read Temperature inside the Matrix ............................................ 19
3.2.8 To Read the Firmware Version.......................................................... 19
3.2.9 To Read Supply Voltages ................................................................... 19
3.2.10 Real Time Clock Functions.............................................................. 19
3.2.10.1 To set date & time: ................................................................................ 19
3.2.11 Scheduling Auto recall of Preset Patterns ....................................... 20
3.2.11.1 To set a schedule ................................................................................... 20
3.2.12 IP Control Basics............................................................................. 22
3.2.12.1 IP Setup Commands using the RS-232 Serial Port................................ 22
3.2.12.2 IP Configuration through port 23 .......................................................... 25
4.0 MAINTENANCE AND TROUBLESHOOTING .................................... 28
4.1 MAINTENANCE .......................................................................................... 28
4.2 TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................................................... 28
4.2.1 Calling Black Box .............................................................................. 28
4.2.2 Shipping and Packaging .................................................................... 29
5.0 SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................29
APPENDIX 1 – FRONT PANEL QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE .............. 30
APPENDIX 2 – COMMAND SUMMARY ....................................................31
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Model AC1120A, AC1121A, AC1122A, AC1123A
About This Manual
This user’s manual covers several variations of Black Box’s 8x8 and 16x16
VGA/HD matrix switches. Four configurations of the matrix are discussed in this
user’ manual per the table below. Since this is an all-encompassing user’s manual,
portions of this guide may not pertain to any specific unit.
AC1120A 8x8 VGA Matrix Switch With Serial Control
AC1121A 8x8 VGA & Audio Matrix Switch with IP and Serial Control
AC1122A 16x16 VGA Matrix Switch with Serial Control
AC1123A 16x16 VGA & Audio Matrix Switch with IP and Serial Control
*** Upon power-up the switches output a string on their RS-232 port that
identifies the unit’s capabilities such as: BBox-I-A-8-8 (I=IP port, A= Audio,
8-8 = number of inputs and outputs respectively)
1.0 General
The AC1120A through AC1123A are compact high-end matrix switches for
video and audio. The matrices are used for cross-point switching of video and
audio signals. The switch provides 8 or 16 video (and audio) outputs, each
capable of independently displaying any of 8 or 16 inputs in any combination.
Additionally, the outputs can be blanked out and/or muted. The Matrices can be
used in TV broadcasting environments, multi-media conference halls, public
facilities, large display projects, schools, courtrooms, and command & control
centers.
The units are compatible with PC video from 640x480 to 1920x1600 or analog
SD/HDTV Component Video (YPbPr) from 480i to 1080p. The Matrix can be
controlled in 3 ways: manually using the buttons on the front panel, through one
or two serial RS232 control ports, or remotely via IP port.
1.1 Features
Allows cross-point switching of PC or HD video and audio signals
Multiple control methods including front panel, serial and IP ports
Switched output can be blanked or muted
Wide bandwidth to support PC resolutions to 1920x1200 or HD to 1080p
Balanced stereo audio outputs allow interference free connections
VU meter (sound level) bar graph display on the front panel
Battery-backed Real-time clock on all models with scheduling capability
Monitors system voltage levels and temperature
Alerts user with a blinking CHECK light if system faults are detected
Built-in universal power supply
Compact, Rugged, Reliable, and Economical
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8x8 and 16x16 VGA / HDTV Matrix Switch with Audio, RS232 & IP Control
2.0 Installation
The matrix is housed in a 2RU 19” wide rack mountable enclosure. All of I/O,
control, and the power connections are on the rear of the unit.
Figure 1 – Rear panel of AC1123A showing all the connections
2.1 Input Audio & Video Connections
Figure 2 - Audio and video inputs on AC1123A
The video connectors are HD15 female. These are compatible with PC’s VGA
video signal (RGBHV). The Matrix is also compatible with analog SD or HDTV
signals (YPbPr) with resolutions from 480i to 1080p. To connect these types of
signals to the Matrix, HD15 to 3-RCA cables may be required.
The HD15 inputs of the matrix handle only the color and sync signals. EDID
Technical Note about the Video Inputs
(extended display identification data) is absent. EDID is normally used by the
source PC to read pertinent information from the connected display. This
information includes a list of the resolutions that are supported by the LCD. If
EDID is not implemented, the source PC is unaware of the specific LCD
connected to it. Generally this is not a problem since in the absence of EDID,
most PC’s allow the user to select from a set of default resolutions for output.
Some PC’s may not output any video signal, or only allow limited resolution
settings with the absence of EDID . One way to resolve this is to change the
display settings of the PC to show all modes and not detect Plug and Play
LCD. The procedure for doing this varies depending on the operating system
and the video card in the PC. It is generally found under: Control Panel >
Display Settings > Advanced > Monitor tab. Alternatively a pass-through EDID
emulator can be used. This a piece of hardware that is sold separately.
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Model AC1120A, AC1121A, AC1122A, AC1123A
The audio input on the basic unit uses standard 3.5mm mini-stereo connectors. To
use these with PC audio, standard male-to-male audio extension cables would be
required. To connect from typical TV sources with separate right and left
connectors, 3.5mm male to 2 RCA cables would be needed.
Since the audio inputs are unbalanced (single ended), the ground reference of
Technical Note about the Audio Inputs
the source has to be the same as the matrix. Of course the cable connecting
the two is tying the grounds across but if there are currents flowing in the
ground it can create potential differences that would manifest as noise. The
quality of grounding at the audio source and the matrix are important. For
example if the input source is a desktop PC, as long as the PC is properly
grounded and the audio cable length is not excessive, you can expect good
results. On the other hand if the input is a notebook PC running on battery,
there is no ground reference at the source so it gets its reference through the
audio (and video) cable connection to the matrix. This should also be okay.
However if it is plugged in through its external power brick, noise can be
induced. This is because most notebook power supplies do not properly
provide an AC ground path to the system ground (some only have only 2 prong
AC cords). The switching power supply circuit will inject noise into the audio
lines. In this case the solution may be to attach a low resistance ground strap
to the notebook. The other option for eliminating the noise is to use a stereo
audio Balun (or isolator). The Balun essentially couples the audio through a
transformer so the audio grounds are isolated. Baluns can also cure noise
pickup in long cable runs.
2.2 Output Audio & Video Connections
Figure 3 – Standard matrix audio and video outputs
The video output connectors are HD15 female. These are compatible with PC’s
VGA video signal (RGBHV). The Matrix is also compatible with YPbPr HDTV
signals with the use of HD15 to 3 RCA adapter cables.
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The audio outputs of the matrix are balanced. So a + and a – are provided for each
side. There is also a ground connection available. If you are going to connect the
matrix output to a single-ended audio device (one with RCA or phono
connectors), then use the + of the left, + of the right, and ground. On the other
hand, if you will be connecting the output to professional audio gear it is best to
use the differential + and – (balanced) outputs of each side that offer immunity to
noise.
The balanced audio outputs are provided on detachable screw-terminals. Mating
connectors for all outputs are also provided.
8x8 and 16x16 VGA / HDTV Matrix Switch with Audio, RS232 & IP Control
Figure 4 – Typical balanced audio output connector
2.3 Power input connection
The matrix has a built-in universal power supply. The AC input connector on the
rear of the matrix is an IEC320 / C6 and is always shipped with a North American
power cord (shown below). If you want to use the matrix in a country with
different plug type, you should purchase your own cable or adapter. The Matrix
supports both 110 V, 60 Hz and 220 V, 50 Hz power systems. There is a power
on indicator light on the front panel
Figure 5 – End of IEC320 / C6 power cord
2.4 Control Inputs
The matrix can be controlled from either RS-232 or through IP.
2.4.1 Matrix with RS-232 Control (no IP)
The AC1120A and AC1122A (without IP feature) actually have 2 separate and
independent RS-232 control ports.
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Model AC1120A, AC1121A, AC1122A, AC1123A
The main RS-232 port is on a screw terminal and the auxiliary port is on an RJ45.
Since the matrices with the IP control and those without both have an
Caution on RJ45 Control Input
RJ45 connector next to the RS-232 screw terminal, it is easy to
confuse their function. The function of the connector should be labeled
above it. A sure way to tell if the RJ45 control input is LAN or Serial is
by the existence of little LED indicators to the sides of the connector. If
the connector has these lights, then it is a LAN connection, otherwise it
is an RS-232 serial connection.
Figure 6 – IP input versus Auxiliary RS-232
2.4.1.1 Primary RS-232 Control Port
This is a 3-terminal captive screw input. A detachable mating connector is
provided. The function of each pin is designated on the panel above the
connector. Below is a diagram for connection this port to a PC’s DB9 serial port.
Figure 7 – Primary RS-232 to PC cable
2.4.1.2 Auxiliary RS-232 Control Port
The matrix switches without IP control have a secondary serial port that can work
independently of the primary port. The user can control the matrix from either or
both ports.
The auxiliary RS-232 is on an RJ45. Make sure to not connect this to any LAN
devices. The pinout for the auxiliary RS-232 follows the basic EIA-561 for TX
RX and Ground. Optional current limited 12v DC may also be provided (max
rated output current of 50ma) that can be used to power external keypads or
control devices.
Never open the unit’s cover. Lethal voltages exists inside the unit
Opening the unit also voids the warranty on the unit.
The pinout is shown below.
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Caution High-Voltage
8x8 and 16x16 VGA / HDTV Matrix Switch with Audio, RS232 & IP Control
Figure 8 – Aux RS-232 port pinout
2.4.2 Units with IP control
Models AC1121A and AC1123A are equipped with 10/100 base-T Ethernet
connection and can be controlled via IP. They also have the primary RS-232 serial
control port on the screw terminal input. The command set for controlling the
matrix via the IP port is exactly the same as the RS-232 port. The basic method of
control is via Telnet. Please see section 3.2.12 IP Control Basics for details.
3.0 Operation
The Matrices can be operated using the front panel buttons, by serial commands
via RS232, or through the IP port.
3.1 Front-Panel Buttons and Indicators
An image of the front panel for the 8x8 matrix is shown below. The 16x16 units
have more INPUT and OUTPUT buttons than shown in this picture.
Figure 9 –AC1120A front panel controls & indicators
The front panel can be used for the following purposes:
• Monitor Power On/Off status
• View current routings (ties) either from input or from output
• Make new ties either from input or from output
• Blank or mute a particular or all outputs
• Recall preset patterns
• Save preset patterns
• Disconnect all ties
• Display current sound level as a digital light bar VU meter
• Recall factory presets
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