Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD
Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier
Operations Guide
Page 2
This document was prepared and written by the Technical Documentation department at:
Crestron Electronics, Inc.
15 Volvo Drive
Rockleigh, NJ 07647
1-888-CRESTRON
Regulatory Compliance
As of the date of manufacture, the HD-DA-2-QUAD has been tested and found to comply with specifications for
CE marking and standards per EMC and Radiocommunications Compliance Labelling.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Statement
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer 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 or more 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
Industry Canada (IC) Compliance Statement
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
All brand names, product names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier
No prog
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Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution
Amplifier: HD-DA-2-QUAD
Introduction
The HD-DA-2-QUAD is a single rack-space unit containing four independent 1-to-2
HDMI distribution amplifiers. It is designed for splitting up to four HDMI, DVI, or
DisplayPort Multimode signals to feed separate displays or processors, and is ideal
for adding “loop-thru” capability to the inputs of a Crestron
Processor. The HD-DA-2-QUAD supports HDMI with De ep Color and HDCP,
handling 1080p60 HDTV and WUXGA computer resolutions, and multi-channel HD
lossless audio.
®
DVPHD Digital Video
Features and Functions
• Provides four independent HDMI splitters
• Enables audio "loop-thru" for DVPHD inputs
• Supports HDMI with Deep Color and 7.1 channel HD lossless audio
• Passes EDID, CEC, and HDCP
• Compatible with DVI and DisplayPort Multimode*
• Supports video resolutions up to WUXGA 1920x1200 and HD
1080p60
• Includes front panel input sync LEDs
• Manages HDCP digital rights management for connected devices
• Performs automatic AV signal format management via EDID
• Single-space 19-inch rack-mountable
• Includes external power supply
•
ramming or control system require
Computer Compatibility
Besides handling every available HDTV format suppor ted by HDMI, the
HD-DA-2-QUAD also supports computer resolutions up to 1920 x 1200 WUXGA,
and is compatible with DisplayPort Multimode and DVI computer signals using a
simple adapter or dongle*.
* HDMI requires an appropriate adapter to accommodate a DVI or DisplayPort Multimode signal.
Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD
EDID Format Management
Embedded in the HDMI signal there is data called EDID (Extended Display
Identification Data), which is generated by a display or audio processor to inform the
upstream source about its format and resolution capabilities. In response to this data,
the source configures itself to send the best video resolution and audio format that
both devices can support. However, when splitting the source’s output to two
disparate devices, formatting conflicts may arise.
The HD-DA-2-QUAD overcomes formatting conflicts by determining the optimal
video resolution, frame rate, color depth, and audio format that all of the devices can
handle.
HDCP Key Management
By supporting HDCP, the HD-DA-2-QUAD ensures compatibility with all current
and future high-definition signals. HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content
Protection) is the digital rights management method that television and movie studios
use to protect their content from unauthorized duplication. To support HDCP
protected content, all devices in the chain must be HDCP compliant.
To manage the HDCP handshaking between devices, the source device (e.g., a
Blu-ray Disc™ player or HDTV receiver) issues “keys” to the devices downstream.
Every HDMI source device has a limit to how many downstream devices it can
support, determined by the number of HDCP keys it has available. But rarely is that
limit advertised or specified by the manufacturer or service provider, so connect too
many displays or processors and the source will simply stop outputting a signal
without warning.
To prevent such surprises, using Crestron Toolbox™ software, the HD-DA-2-QUAD
can test the HDCP limits of each HDMI source, allowing the installer to configure
the system around any limitations, or substitute a different component.
Sync Detect LEDs
To simplify operation and troubleshooting, the HD-DA-2-QUAD provides individual
sync detection LEDs on its front panel, providing a clear indi cat ion w hen a valid
digital signal is connected to any input.
Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier
Setup
Installation
Ventilation
Rack Mounting
The HD-DA-2-QUAD should be used in a well-ventilated area. The venting holes
should not be obstructed under any circumstances.
To prevent overheating, do not operate this product in an area that exceeds the
environmental temperature range listed in the table of specifications. Consider using
forced air ventilation and/or incrementing the spacing between units to reduce
overheating. Consideration must be given if installed in a closed or multi-unit rack
assembly since the operating ambient temperature of the environment may be greater
than the room ambient temperature. Contact with thermal insulating materials should
be avoided on all sides of the unit.
The HD-DA-2-QUAD can be mounted in a rack or stacked with other equipment.
Two “ears” are provided with the HD-DA-2-QUAD so that the unit can be rack
mounted. These ears must be installed prior to mounting. Complete the following
procedure to attach the ears to the unit. The only tool required is a #2 Phillips
screwdriver.
WARNING: To prevent bodily injury when mounting or servicing this unit in a
rack, take special precautions to ensure that the system remains stable. The following
guidelines are provided to ensure your safety:
•When mounting this unit in a partially filled rack, load the rack from the
bottom to the top with the heaviest component at the bottom of the rack.
•If the rack is provided with stabilizing devices, install the stabilizers before
mounting or servicing the unit in the rack.
NOTE: If rack mounting is not required, rubber feet are provided for tabletop
mounting or stacking. Apply the feet near the corner edges on the underside of the
unit.
NOTE: Reliable earthing of rack-mounted equipment should be maintained.
Particular attention should be given to supply connections other than direct
connections to the branch circuit (e.g. use of power strips).
To install the ears:
1. There are screws that secure each side of the HD-DA-2-QUAD top cover.
Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, remove the three screws closest to the front
panel from one side of the unit. Refer to the diagram following step 3 for a
detailed view.
2. Position a rack ear so that its mounting holes align with the holes vacated
by the screws in step 1.
3. Secure the ear to the unit with three screws from step 1, as shown in the
Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD
Ear Attachment for Rack Mounting (this image shows a 1RU device)
4. Repeat procedure (steps 1 through 3) to attach the remaining ear to the
opposite side.
Stacking
Four “feet” are provided with the HD-DA-2-QUAD so that if the unit is not rack
mounted, the rubber feet can provide stability when the unit is placed on a flat
surface or stacked. These feet should be attached prior to the hookup procedure.
NOTE: No more than two HD-DA-2-QUAD units should be stacked.
Hardware Hookup
Hardware Connections for the HD-DA-2-QUAD
IN 1:
From HDMI
Source
OUT 1:
To Loop-Thru Device
Make the necessary connections as called out in the illustration that follows this
paragraph. Apply power after all connections have been made.
When making connections to the HD-DA-2-QUAD, note the following:
• The HD-DA-2-QUAD may be powered by the included 24V DC power
• The CEC signal is only carried on ports that are connected to display
OUT 2:
To Display
Device
pack or Cresnet network power, not both.
devices.
IN 3:
From HDMI
Source
OUT 3:
To Loop-Thru Device
OUT 4:
To Display
Device
COMPUTER:
To USB Port on
PC
24VDC 1.0A:
From Included Power
Supply
OUT 1:
To Display
Device
IN 2:
From HDMI
Source
OUT 2:
To Loop-Thru
Device
OUT 3:
To Display
Device
IN 4:
From HDMI
Source
OUT 4:
To Loop-Thru
Device
PWR:
From Crestron
24VDC Power Supply
GROUND:
Tie All Source Grounds to
Ground Terminal
NOTE: Ensure the unit is properly grounded by connecting the chassis ground lug
to an earth ground (building steel).
Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier
HDCP Signal Path
Sources using HDCP limit the number of display devices it can transmit to while
simultaneously limiting the depth of devices in the signal path. Too many devices or
greater-than-allowed depth in a signal path (from source to display) may create
problems with displaying of audio and video content. The HDCP specification states
that the maximum depth of devices between source and display is six. Some
examples are shown in the following diagram.
Examples of Reported HDCP Devices and Reported HDCP Depth
Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD
Using Crestron Toolbox, the HD-DA-2-QUAD can test HDMI sources and displays
for limitations due to HDCP keys. The number of HDCP keys specify the number of
display devices that can be connected to a source over HDMI using HDCP
authentication. For more information, refer to the Crestron Toolbox help file.
EDID
EDID is a piece of data that HDMI receivers use to indicate their capabilities to the
HDMI sources.
The HD-DA-2-QUAD distributes HDMI signals from each input channel to two
corresponding HDMI outputs. According to the HDMI standard, HDMI sources are
expected to only deliver audio and video formats that are supported by the
destination. To do this, the HD-DA-2-QUAD reads the EDID information from
devices connected to the outputs and determines the video resolutions and audio
format to send to the input to program EDID on the inputs.
Using Crestron Toolbox’ DMTool utility, the HD-DA-2-QUAD is configured using
the “Best Common” algorithm to determine what EDID information is sent to each
source.
Only resolutions that are available in all of the displays that are connected will be
transmitted to the source. This ensures that any video signal coming in from the
source will be able to be shown on all displays. If certain resolution s are on ly
available on a subset of the displays, they will be omitted.
“Best Common” can be modified to use information from just a subset of displays by
deselecting them in Crestron Toolbox.
By managing which displays are used for the EDID calculations, you can maximize
the resolution of each source while ensuring that the source can be shown on each
display where it is needed.
The EDID calculations also affect audio formats. Each HDMI receiver sends its
supported audio formats to the source in the following format:
<Format> <Maximum # of channels> <sampling freq supported>
Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD
Uploading and Upgrading
Crestron recommends using the latest programming software and that each device
contains the latest firmware to take advantage of the most recently released features.
However, before attempting to upload or upgrade it is necessary to establish
communication. Once communication has been esta bl i shed, files (for example,
firmware) can be transferred to the control system (and/or device). Finally, program
checks can be performed (such as changing the device ID or creating an IP table) to
ensure proper functioning.
Establishing Communication
Use Crestron Toolbox for communicating with the HD-DA-2-QUAD; refer to the
Crestron Toolbox help file for details. There is a single method of communication:
USB communication.
USB Communication
PC RUNNING
CRESTRON TOOLBOX
The COMPUTER port on the HD-DA-2-QUAD connects to the USB port on th e
PC via the included Type A to Type B USB cable:
1. Use the Address Book in Crestron Toolbox to create an entry using the
expected communication protocol (USB). When multiple USB devices are
connected, identify the HD-DA-2-QUAD by entering “HD-DA-2-QUAD”
in the Model textbox, the unit’s serial number in the Serial textbox or the
unit’s hostname in the Hostname textbox. The hostname can be found in the
“System Info” window in the section marked Ethernet however,
communications must be established in order to see this information in the
“System Info” window.
2. Display the HD-DA-2-QUAD’s “System Info” window (click the
icon); communications are confirmed when the device information is
displayed.
USB
HD-DA-2-QUAD
Firmware
Firmware files are distributed from Crestron to dealers. Firmware upgrades are
available from the Crestron website as new features are developed after product
releases. Firmware is upgraded via the Crestron Toolbox. For details on uploading
and upgrading, refer to the Crestron Toolbox help file.
Check the Crestron website to find the latest firmware. (New users may be required
to register to obtain access to certain areas of the site, including the FTP site.)
Upgrade HD-DA-2-QUAD firmware via Crestron Toolbox.
1. Establish communication with the HD-DA-2-QUAD and display the
“System Info” window.
2. Select Functions | Firmware… to upgrade the HD-DA-2-QUAD firmware.
Page 17
Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier
Program Checks
Using Crestron Toolbox, display the “System Info window (click the
select the Functions menu to display actions that can be performed on the
HD-DA-2-QUAD.
icon) and
DMTool
In the Crestron Toolbox Address Book, select the HD-DA-2-QUAD. Then use the
DMTool to configure EDID, HDCP or to troubleshoot AV on the HD-DA-2-QUAD.
Refer to the help file for additional information.
Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD
Problem Solving
Troubleshooting
The following table provides corrective action for possible trouble situations. If
further assistance is required, please contact a Crestron customer service
representative.
HD-DA-2-QUAD Troubleshooting
TROUBLE POSSIBLE CAUSE(S) CORRECTIVE ACTION
Device does not
function.
SYNC DETECT
LED does not
illuminate.
Loss of
functionality due to
electrostatic
discharge.
Device is not receiving
power from a Crestron
power source.
Device is not receiving
sufficient power.
HD-DA-2-QUAD is not
receiving a video signal.
Improper grounding.
Use the provided Crestron
power source. Verify
connections.
Use the Crestron Power
Calculator to help calculate
how much power is needed for
the system.
Verify that source is
transmitting a signal.
Check that all ground
connections have been made
properly.
Further Inquiries
If you cannot locate specific information or have questions after reviewing this
guide, please take advantage of Crestron's award winning customer service team by
calling Crestron at 1-888-CRESTRON [1-888-273-7876].
You can also log onto the online help section of the Crestron website
(
www.crestron.com/onlinehelp) to ask questions about Crestron products. First-time
users will need to establish a user account to fully benefit from all available features.
Future Updates
As Crestron improves functions, adds new features and extends the capabilities of
the HD-DA-2-QUAD, additional information may be made available as manual
updates. These updates are solely electronic and serve as intermediary supplements
prior to the release of a complete technical documentation revision.
Check the Crestron website periodically for manual update availability and its
relevance. Updates are identified as an “Addendum” in the Download column.
Crestron HD-DA-2-QUAD Quad 1-to-2 HDMI™ Distribution Amplifier
Return and Warranty Policies
Merchandise Returns / Repair Service
1. No merchandise may be returned for credit, exchange or service without prior authorization
from CRESTRON. To obtain warranty service for CRESTRON products, contact an
authorized CRESTRON dealer. Only authorized CRESTRON dealers may contact the factory
and request an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) number. Enclose a note specifying
the nature of the problem, name and phone number of contact person, RMA number and
return address.
2. Products may be returned for credit, exchange or service with a CRESTRON Return
Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Authorized returns must be shipped freight
prepaid to CRESTRON, 6 Volvo Drive, Rockleigh, N.J. or its authorized subsidiaries, with
RMA number clearly marked on the outside of all cartons. Shipments arriving freight collect
or without an RMA number shall be subject to refusal. CRESTRON reserves the right in its
sole and absolute discretion to charge a 15% restocking fee plus shipping costs on any
products returned with an RMA.
3. Return freight charges following repair of items under warranty shall be paid by CRESTRON,
shipping by standard ground carrier. In the event repairs are found to be non-warranty, return
freight costs shall be paid by the purchaser.
CRESTRON Limited Warranty
CRESTRON ELECTRONICS, Inc. warrants its products to be free from manufacturing defects in mat erial s
and workmanship under normal use for a period of three (3) years from the date of purchase from
CRESTRON, with the following exceptions: disk drives and any other moving or rotating mechanical
parts, pan/tilt heads and power supplies are covered for a period of one (1) year; touchscreen display and
overlay components are covered for 90 days; batteries and incandescent lamps are not covered.
This warranty extends to products purchased directly from CRESTRON or an authorized CRESTRON
dealer. Purchasers should inquire of the dealer regard ing the nature and extent of the dealer's warranty, if
any.
CRESTRON shall not be liable to honor the terms of this warranty if the product has been used in any
application other than that for which it was intended or if it has been subjected to misuse, accidental
damage, modification or improper installation procedures. Furthermore, this warranty does not cover any
product that has had the serial number altered, defaced or removed.
This warranty shall be the sole and exclusive remedy to the original purchaser. In no event shall
CRESTRON be liable for incidental or consequential damages of any kind (property or economic damages
inclusive) arising from the sale or use of this equipment. CRESTRON is not liable for any claim made by a
third party or made by the purchaser for a third party.
CRESTRON shall, at its option, repair or replace any product found defective, without charge for parts or
labor. Repaired or replaced equipment and parts supplied under this warranty shall be covered only by the
unexpired portion of the warranty.
Except as expressly set forth in this warranty, CRESTRON makes no other warranties, expressed or
implied, nor authorizes any other party to offer any warranty, including any implied warranties of
merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Any implied warranties that may be imposed by law are
limited to the terms of this limited warranty. This warranty statement supersedes all previous warranties.
Trademark Information
All brand names, product names and trademarks are the sole property of their respective owners. Windows is a registered trademark
of Microsoft Corporation. Windows 95/98/Me/XP/Vista/7 and Windows NT/2000 are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.