Installation & Operation Guide – DOC. 7196B Contents • i
Crestron DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6 DigitalMedia Distribution Center
• Provides a low-cost, high-performance multiroom HD AV signal
DigitalMedia™ Distribution Center:
DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6
Introduction
The Crestron® DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 DigitalMedia™ distribution centers
distribute multiple high-definition sources to up to four rooms (DM-MD6X4) or up
to six rooms (DM-MD6X6) as part of a complete Crestron system. Featuring
DigitalMedia 8G+
ultra high-bandwidth signal routing over CAT5e (or better) wiring
®
technology, the DM-MD6X 4 a nd DM-MD6X6 deliver
1
.
Features and Functions
routing solution
•Distributes uncompressed digital video and audio over CAT5e
(or better) twisted-pair wire
• Affords a true one-wire solution using DigitalMedia 8G+ technology
• HDBaseT
HDBaseT certified equipment
•Features independently switchable HDBaseT or DM 8G+
three (DM-MD6X4) or five (DM-MD6X6) remote displays
• Allows up to a 330-foot (100-meter) wire distance to each display
• Includes one HDMI
• Provides inputs for six HDMI, DVI, or DisplayPort Multimode sources
• Handles video resoluti ons up to Full HD 1080p
• Handles computer resolutions up to WUXGA
• Handles 3D video and Deep Color
• Handles Dolby
(Continued on following page)
linear PCM audio
• HDCP compliant
• QuickSwitch HD™ technology manages HDCP keys for fast, reliable
switching
1
®
Alliance Certified–Enables direct connection to other
®
outputs for
®
output for a local display or audio processor
®
TrueHD audio, DTS HD® audio, and uncompre ss e d 7.1
2
1. For DM 8G+ or HDBaseT wiring up to 330 feet (100 meters) between devices, use Crestron
DM-CBL-8G DigitalMedia 8G™ cable or generic CAT5e (or better) UTP or STP. Shielded cable and
connectors are recommended to safeguard against unpredictable environmental electrical noise that
may impact performance at resolutions above 1080p. For complete system design guidelines, refer to
the Crestron DigitalMedia Design Guide (Doc. 4546) at www.crestron.com/manuals
cables are sold separately.
2. HDMI requires an appropriate adapter or interface cable to accommodate a DVI or DisplayPort
Multimode signal. Crestron CBL-HD-DVI interface cables are sold separately.
DigitalMedia Distribution Center Crestron DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6
•Auto-Locking® technology achieves rapid switching between disparate
Features and Functions
(Continued)
sources
• Performs automatic AV signal format management via EDID
• Allows independent scaling for every display through select
• Enables USB HID mouse and keyboard signal extension
• Expanded USB routing capabilities available using USB-EXT-DM USB
• Includes integrated Ethernet switch
• Private Network Mode–Requires only one IP address for the complete
• Provides Power over DM for PoDM compatible receivers
• Provides setup and diagnostics tools via front panel or software
• Includes built-in uni ve rs a l power supply
• Allows native Crestron system integration via Ethernet
• Standard component wi dth or two-space rack mountable
®
receivers3
DM
over Ethernet extenders
DM system
4
HD Matrix Switcher
The DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 provide six HDMI® inputs to handle HDTV
receivers, DVD or Blu-ray Disc
digital sources. Outputs include one HDMI and three (DM-MD6X4) or five
(DM-MD6X6) DigitalMedia ports, furnishing simple one-wire connectivity for a
local display or audio processor, and three (DM-MD6X4) or five (DM-MD6X6)
additional displays any where in the house. QuickSwitch HD™ matrix switching
allows any display to view any source at any time.
DigitalMedia 8G+
Crestron exclusive DM 8G+® technology affords the ultimate in simplicity,
providing a true one-wire interface for distributing high-definition video, audio, and
control signals to multiple displays throughout a residence or commercial structure.
Simply connect a DM 8G+ receiver
projector for a complete AV and control interface. Only one CAT5e (or better) wire
run to each receiver transports pure, uncompressed HD video, 7.1 surround sound
audio, 10/100 Etherne t , power, and control signals for a fully integrated media
system with minimal wiring. DM 8G+ allows for wire runs up to 330 feet (100
meters) using CAT5e (or better) or Crestron DigitalMedia 8G™ cable.
3. DM 8G+ receivers with built-in scaling include the DM-RMC-SCALER-C, DM-RMC-200-C,
DM-RMC-4K-SCALER-C, and DM-RMC-4K-SCALER-C-DSP. For the HDMI output, use the
HD-SCALER-HD-E or the HD-SCALER-VGA-E.
4. USB-EXT DM USB over Ethernet extender modules are sold separately. Refer to the USB-EXT-
DM spec sheet on the product webpage for more information.
* For DM 8G+ or HDBaseT wiring up to 330 feet (100 meters) between devices, use Crestron
DM-CBL-8G DigitalMedia 8G cable or generic CAT5e (or better) UTP or STP. Shielded cable and
connectors are recommended to safeguard against unpredictable environmental electrical noise that
may impact performance at resolutions above 1080p. For complete system design guidelines, refer to
the Crestron DigitalMedia Design Guide (Doc. 4546). All wire and cables are sold separately.
Crestron DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6 DigitalMedia Distribution Center
HDBaseT® Alliance Certified
Crestron DigitalMedia 8G+ technology is designed using HDBaseT Alliance
specifications, ensuring interoperability with other HDBaseT certified products. Via
its DM 8G+ outputs, the DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 can be connected directly to
HDBaseT compliant display devices without requiring any DM
Quickswitch HD
Handling high-definition digital media means handling HDCP (High-bandwidth
Digital Content Protection), which is the encryption scheme that content providers
use to protect their DVDs, Blu-ray Discs, and broadcast signals against unauthorized
copying. Viewing HDCP encrypted content requires the source device to
"authenticate" each display in the system and to issue it a key before the content can
be viewed. Ordinarily, this process causes a complete loss in signal for up to
15 seconds each time a new source or display is selected anywhere in the system.
Additionally, every source device has a limited number of keys available, so if too
many devices are connected, the source stops outputting a signal without warning.
Crestron Quickswitch HD solves this problem by managing keys for every
HDCP-compliant device in the system, maintaining continuous authentication for
each device to ensure fast, reliable routing of any source to any number of disp la y
devices.
®
receivers.
Auto-Locking® Technology
Crestron Auto-Locking technology enables high-speed signal switching by
instantaneously configuring every device in the signal path as soon as the signal
reaches the first device. Whether switching between sources or TV channels,
Auto-Locking significantly reduces the time it takes each device to sense the new
signal and to configure itself to handle the changes, virtually eliminating any
noticeable gap while switching.
EDID Format Management
The DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 manage the EDID (Ext e nded Display
Identification Data) that modern digital devices use to communicate their
capabilities. Through the DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6, the format and resolut i on
capabilities of each device can be assessed, allowing the installer to configure EDID
signals appropriately for the most desirable and predictable behavior.
A Scaler for Every Display
Scaling capability can be added to the DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 using select
DM 8G+ receivers (sold separately) with built-in HD and 4K scalers.
independent high-performance scaler at every display device, DigitalMedia truly
delivers the most flexible and user-friendly solution for routing multiple disparate
sources to many different display devices. This “Distributed Scaler Approach”
ensures an optimal image on every screen no matter what sources are selected.
Distributed scaling allows a high-resolution computer source to be viewed on any
display in the building, and allows a high-definition 3D source to be viewed on lower
resolution 2D displays wi thout compromising the original signa l , such as letting a
home theater’s Full HD 1080p 3D image be shared with smaller, lesser displays in
other rooms.
*
By placing an
* DM 8G+ receivers with built-in scaling include the DM-RMC-SCALER-C, DM-RMC-200-C,
DM-RMC-4K-SCALER-C, and DM-RMC-4K-SCALER-C-DSP. For the HDMI output, use the HDSCALER-HD-E or HD-SCALER-VGA-E.
DigitalMedia Distribution Center Crestron DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6
Multi-Channel HD Audio Routing
The DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 allow for the routing of signals containing
multichannel surround sound audio, supporting high-bitrate formats such as
®
TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio™ technology, as well as uncompressed
Dolby
linear PCM (pulse-code modulation).
Built-In Ethernet Switch
In addition to transporting digital video and audio, DigitalMedia can also extend
high-speed Ethernet to display devices that require a LAN connection. Ethernet is
also utilized internally by the Crestron control bus to manage all of the DM devices
in the system and provide display control in each room. Through the 10/100 Ethernet
port, the DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6 provides a single-point connection to a home
network or corporate LAN, requiring only one IP address for the complete DM
system, including all connected DM receivers.
USB Signal Routing
With built-in USB HID (Human Interface Device) signal routing, the
DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 can control a centralized computer or media server
using a mouse or keyboard in another room. The mouse and keyboard can be
connected to any DM 8G+ receiver (sold separately) that includes a USB HID port,
while the host computer is connected to the USB HID port on the rear panel of the
DM-MD6X4 or DM-MD6X6. Crestron also offers USB over Ethernet extenders
(USB-EXT-DM, sold separately), which may be used to enable the routing of
multiple USB devices of virtually any type that are managed seamlessly through the
DigitalMedia system.
*
CEC Embedded Device Control
The primary objective of every Crestron system is to enable precisely the control
desired for a seamless user experience. DigitalMedia provides an alternative to
conventional IR and RS-232 device control by harnessing the CEC (Consumer
Electronics Control) signal embedded in HDMI. Through a connection to a Crestron
control system, the DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 provides a gateway for
controlling many devices directly through their HDMI conn e c tions, which may
eliminate the need for any dedicated control wires or IR emitters.
Easy Setup
Setup for the DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 is designed to be quick and easy using
the device's front panel or Crestron Toolbox™ software, configuring inputs and
outputs automatically while letting the installer make intelligent design decisions
along the way. Out of the box, the DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 front pa ne l
supports basic signal routing for testing and troubleshooting during installation. The
front panel label strips can be customized using Crestron Engraver software or
standard 3/8" tape labels, allowing for the clear designation of each input and output.
Inputs and outputs may also be designated by name through the software to appear
on the LCD display.
* USB-EXT DM USB over Ethernet extender modules are sold separately. Refer to the
USB-EXT-DM spec sheet on the product webpage for more information.
Crestron DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6 DigitalMedia Distribution Center
Specifications
Specifications for the DM-MD6X4 and DM-MD6X6 are listed in the below table.
DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6 Specifications
SPECIFICATION DETAILS
Video Switcher
Input Sign al Types HDMI, DVI1, DisplayPort Multimode1
Output Signal Types
Formats
Input Reso lutions Progressive
Interlaced
6X4 (DM-MD6X4) or 6x6 (DM-MD6X6)
digital matrix switch, Crestron
QuickSwitch HD
HDMI, DVI
one CAT5e or better twisted pair cop per
wire)2, HDBaseT2
DM 8G+, HDBaseT, HDMI with Deep
Color and 3D; DVI; HDCP content
protection support
640 x 480 @ 60 Hz
720 x 480 @ 60 Hz (480p)
720 x 576 @ 50 Hz (576p)
800 x 600 @ 60 Hz
848 x 480 @ 60 Hz
852 x 480 @ 60 Hz
854 x 480 @ 60 Hz
1024 x 768 @ 60 Hz
1024 x 852 @ 60 Hz
1024 x 1024 @ 60 Hz
1280 x 720 @ 50 Hz (720p50)
1280 x 720 @ 60 Hz (720p60)
1280 x 768 @ 60 Hz
1280 x 800 @ 60 Hz
1280 x 960 @ 60 Hz
1280 x 1024 @ 60 Hz
1360 x 768 @ 60 Hz
1365 x 1024 @ 60 Hz
1366 x 768 @ 60 Hz
1400 x 1050 @ 60 Hz
1440 x 900 @ 60 Hz
1600 x 900 @ 60 Hz
1600 x 1200 @ 60 Hz
1680 x 1050 @ 60 Hz
1920 x 1080 @ 24 Hz (1080p24)
1920 x 1080 @ 25 Hz (1080p25)
1920 x 1080 @ 50 Hz (1080p50)
1920 x 1080 @ 60 Hz (1080p60)
1920 x 1200 @ 60 Hz
2048 x 1080 @ 24 Hz
2048 x 1152 @ 60 Hz
plus any other resolution allowed by
HDMI up to 165 MHz pixel clock
720 x 480 @ 30 Hz (480i)
720 x 576 @ 25 Hz (576i)
1920 x 1080 @ 25 Hz (1080i25)
1920 x 1080 @ 30 Hz (1080i30)
plus any other resolution allowed by
HDMI up to 165 MHz pixel clock
DigitalMedia Distribution Center Crestron DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6
DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6 Specifications (Continued)
SPECIFICATION DETAILS
Video (Continued) Output Resolutions Matched to inputs
Audio Switcher
Input Sign al Types HDMI, DisplayPort Multimode1
Output Signal Types HDMI, DM 8G+. HDBaseT
Formats
Communications DigitalMedia
Ethernet
HDBaseT HDCP3, EDID3, PoH, Ethernet
HDMI HDCP3, EDID3, CEC3
USB
Power Requirements
Main Po wer
Power over DM (PoDM)
Power over HDBaseT (PoH)
Environmental Temperature 32 ºF to 104 ºF (0 ºC to 40 ºC)
Humidity 10% to 90% RH (non-condensing)
Heat Dissi pation 310 BTU/hr
6x4 (DM-MD6X4) or 6x6 (DM-MD6X6)
digital matrix switch, audio-follow-video
Dolby Digital® audio, Dolby Digital EX,
Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD,
DTS® audio, DTS ES, DTS 96/24, DTS
HD High Res, DTS HD Master Audio, up
to 8ch PCM
Supports signal extension and routing of
USB HID class devices, expandable t o
support almost any USB 1.1 or 2.0 device
using Crestron USB-EXT-DM USB over
Ethernet extenders
computer console (setup)
Crestron DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6 DigitalMedia Distribution Center
DM-MD6X4/DM-MD6X6 Specifications (Continued)
SPECIFICATION DETAILS
Enclosure Chassis
Faceplate
Mounting
Dimensions Height 3.47 in (89 mm) without feet
Width
Depth 13.38 in (340 mm)
Weight 12.0 lb (5.5 kg)
Available Accessories
CBL Series Crestron Certified Interface C ables
DM-8G-CONN DigitalMedia 8G Cable Connectors
DM-8G-CONN-WG
DM-8G-CRIMP Crimping Tool for DM-8G-CONN
DM-8G-CRIMP-WG Crimping Tool for DM-8G-CONN-WG
DM-CBL-8G DigitalMedia 8G Cable
DM-RMC-200-C
DM-RMC-4K-100-C
DM-RMC-4K-SCALER-C
DM-RMC-4K-SCALER-C-DSP
DM-RMC-SCALER-C
HD-SCALER-HD-E
HD-SCALER-VGA-E
MP-WP(I) Series
USB-EXT DM USB over Ethernet Extender with Routing
1. HDMI requires an appropriate adapter or interface cable to accommodate a DVI or DisplayPort
Multimode signal. Crestron CBL-HD-DVI interface cables are sold separately.
2. For DM 8G+ or HDBaseT wiring up to 330 feet (100 meters) between devices, use Crestron
DM-CBL-8G DigitalMedia 8G cable or generic CAT5e (or better) UTP or STP. Shielded cable and
connectors are recommended to safeguard against unpredictable environmental electrical noise that
may impact performance at resolutions above 1080p. For complete system design guidelines, refer to
the Crestron DigitalMedia Design Guide (Doc. 4546). All wire and cables are sold separately.
3. The DM-RM6X4 and DM-RM6X6 support management of HDCP and EDID; the devices also
support management of CEC between the connected HDMI devices and a control system.
4. USB-EXT DM USB over Ethernet extender modules are sold separately. Refer to the USB-EXT-DM
spec sheet on the product webpage for more information.
Metal with black finish, vented sides,
fan cooled
Metal, black finish with polycarbonate
label overlay
Freestanding or 2U 19-inch rack
mountable (adhesive feet and rack ears
included)