Extron electronic MLS 306 User Manual 2

MLS 306,

MLS 506, MLS 506MA, MLS 506SA

MediaLink™ Switchers

68-598-01

Printed in the USA

Precautions

Safety Instructions • English

This symbol is intended to alert the user of important operating and maintenance
(servicing) instructions in the literature provided with the equipment.

This symbol is intended to alert the user of the presence of uninsulated dangerous
voltage within the product's enclosure that may present a risk of electric shock.

Caution

Read Instructions • Read and understand all safety and operating instructions before using the

equipment.

Retain Instructions • The safety instructions should be kept for future reference.
Follow Warnings • Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the equipment or in the user

information.

Avoid Attachments • Do not use tools or attachments that are not recommended by the equipment

manufacturer because they may be hazardous.

Consignes de Sécurité • Français

Ce symbole sert à avertir l’utilisateur que la documentation fournie avec le matériel
contient des instructions importantes concernant l’exploitation et la maintenance
(réparation).

Ce symbole sert à avertir l’utilisateur de la présence dans le boîtier de l’appareil de
tensions dangereuses non isolées posant des risques d’électrocution.

Attention

Lire les instructions• Prendre connaissance de toutes les consignes de sécurité et d’exploitation avant

d’utiliser le matériel.

Conserver les instructions• Ranger les consignes de sécurité afin de pouvoir les consulter à l’avenir.
Respecter les avertissements • Observer tous les avertissements et consignes marqués sur le matériel ou

présentés dans la documentation utilisateur.

Eviter les pièces de fixation • Ne pas utiliser de pièces de fixation ni d’outils non recommandés par le

fabricant du matériel car cela risquerait de poser certains dangers.

Sicherheitsanleitungen • Deutsch

Dieses Symbol soll dem Benutzer in der im Lieferumfang enthaltenen
Dokumentation besonders wichtige Hinweise zur Bedienung und Wartung
(Instandhaltung) geben.

Dieses Symbol soll den Benutzer darauf aufmerksam machen, daß im Inneren des
Gehäuses dieses Produktes gefährliche Spannungen, die nicht isoliert sind und
die einen elektrischen Schock verursachen können, herrschen.

Achtung

Lesen der Anleitungen • Bevor Sie das Gerät zum ersten Mal verwenden, sollten Sie alle Sicherheits-und

Bedienungsanleitungen genau durchlesen und verstehen.

Aufbewahren der Anleitungen • Die Hinweise zur elektrischen Sicherheit des Produktes sollten Sie

aufbewahren, damit Sie im Bedarfsfall darauf zurückgreifen können.

Befolgen der Warnhinweise • Befolgen Sie alle Warnhinweise und Anleitungen auf dem Gerät oder in

der Benutzerdokumentation.

Keine Zusatzgeräte • Verwenden Sie keine Werkzeuge oder Zusatzgeräte, die nicht ausdrücklich vom

Hersteller empfohlen wurden, da diese eine Gefahrenquelle darstellen können.

Warning

Power sources • This equipment should be operated only from the power source indicated on the

product. This equipment is intended to be used with a main power system with a grounded
(neutral) conductor. The third (grounding) pin is a safety feature, do not attempt to bypass or
disable it.

Power disconnection • To remove power from the equipment safely, remove all power cords from

the rear of the equipment, or the desktop power module (if detachable), or from the power
source receptacle (wall plug).

Power cord protection • Power cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be stepped on or

pinched by items placed upon or against them.

Servicing • Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. There are no user-serviceable parts

inside. To prevent the risk of shock, do not attempt to service this equipment yourself because
opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards.

Slots and openings • If the equipment has slots or holes in the enclosure, these are provided to

prevent overheating of sensitive components inside. These openings must never be blocked by
other objects.

Lithium battery • There is a danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace it only

with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer. Dispose of used batteries
according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Avertissement

Alimentations• Ne faire fonctionner ce matériel qu’avec la source d’alimentation indiquée sur

l’appareil. Ce matériel doit être utilisé avec une alimentation principale comportant un fil de
terre (neutre). Le troisième contact (de mise à la terre) constitue un dispositif de sécurité :
n’essayez pas de la contourner ni de la désactiver.

Déconnexion de l’alimentation• Pour mettre le matériel hors tension sans danger, déconnectez tous

les cordons d’alimentation de l’arrière de l’appareil ou du module d’alimentation de bureau (s’il
est amovible) ou encore de la prise secteur.

Protection du cordon d’alimentation • Acheminer les cordons d’alimentation de manière à ce que

personne ne risque de marcher dessus et à ce qu’ils ne soient pas écrasés ou pincés par des
objets.

Réparation-maintenance • Faire exécuter toutes les interventions de réparation-maintenance par un

technicien qualifié. Aucun des éléments internes ne peut être réparé par l’utilisateur. Afin
d’éviter tout danger d’électrocution, l’utilisateur ne doit pas essayer de procéder lui-même à ces
opérations car l’ouverture ou le retrait des couvercles risquent de l’exposer à de hautes tensions
et autres dangers.

Fentes et orifices • Si le boîtier de l’appareil comporte des fentes ou des orifices, ceux-ci servent à

empêcher les composants internes sensibles de surchauffer. Ces ouvertures ne doivent jamais
être bloquées par des objets.

Lithium Batterie • Il a danger d'explosion s'll y a remplacment incorrect de la batterie. Remplacer

uniquement avec une batterie du meme type ou d'un ype equivalent recommande par le
constructeur. Mettre au reut les batteries usagees conformement aux instructions du fabricant.

Vorsicht

Stromquellen • Dieses Gerät sollte nur über die auf dem Produkt angegebene Stromquelle betrieben

werden. Dieses Gerät wurde für eine Verwendung mit einer Hauptstromleitung mit einem
geerdeten (neutralen) Leiter konzipiert. Der dritte Kontakt ist für einen Erdanschluß, und stellt
eine Sicherheitsfunktion dar. Diese sollte nicht umgangen oder außer Betrieb gesetzt werden.

Stromunterbrechung • Um das Gerät auf sichere Weise vom Netz zu trennen, sollten Sie alle

Netzkabel aus der Rückseite des Gerätes, aus der externen Stomversorgung (falls dies möglich
ist) oder aus der Wandsteckdose ziehen.

Schutz des Netzkabels • Netzkabel sollten stets so verlegt werden, daß sie nicht im Weg liegen und

niemand darauf treten kann oder Objekte darauf- oder unmittelbar dagegengestellt werden
können.

Wartung • Alle Wartungsmaßnahmen sollten nur von qualifiziertem Servicepersonal durchgeführt

werden. Die internen Komponenten des Gerätes sind wartungsfrei. Zur Vermeidung eines
elektrischen Schocks versuchen Sie in keinem Fall, dieses Gerät selbst öffnen, da beim Entfernen
der Abdeckungen die Gefahr eines elektrischen Schlags und/oder andere Gefahren bestehen.

Schlitze und Öffnungen • Wenn das Gerät Schlitze oder Löcher im Gehäuse aufweist, dienen diese

zur Vermeidung einer Überhitzung der empfindlichen Teile im Inneren. Diese Öffnungen dürfen
niemals von anderen Objekten blockiert werden.

Litium-Batterie • Explosionsgefahr, falls die Batterie nicht richtig ersetzt wird. Ersetzen Sie

verbrauchte Batterien nur durch den gleichen oder einen vergleichbaren Batterietyp, der auch
vom Hersteller empfohlen wird. Entsorgen Sie verbrauchte Batterien bitte gemäß den
Herstelleranweisungen.

Instrucciones de seguridad • Español

Este símbolo se utiliza para advertir al usuario sobre instrucciones importantes de
operación y mantenimiento (o cambio de partes) que se desean destacar en el
contenido de la documentación suministrada con los equipos.

Este símbolo se utiliza para advertir al usuario sobre la presencia de elementos con
voltaje peligroso sin protección aislante, que puedan encontrarse dentro de la caja
o alojamiento del producto, y que puedan representar riesgo de electrocución.

Precaucion

Leer las instrucciones • Leer y analizar todas las instrucciones de operación y seguridad, antes de usar

el equipo.

Conservar las instrucciones • Conservar las instrucciones de seguridad para futura consulta.
Obedecer las advertencias • Todas las advertencias e instrucciones marcadas en el equipo o en la

documentación del usuario, deben ser obedecidas.

Evitar el uso de accesorios • No usar herramientas o accesorios que no sean especificamente

recomendados por el fabricante, ya que podrian implicar riesgos.

Advertencia

Alimentación eléctrica • Este equipo debe conectarse únicamente a la fuente/tipo de alimentación

eléctrica indicada en el mismo. La alimentación eléctrica de este equipo debe provenir de un
sistema de distribución general con conductor neutro a tierra. La tercera pata (puesta a tierra) es
una medida de seguridad, no puentearia ni eliminaria.

Desconexión de alimentación eléctrica • Para desconectar con seguridad la acometida de

alimentación eléctrica al equipo, desenchufar todos los cables de alimentación en el panel trasero
del equipo, o desenchufar el módulo de alimentación (si fuera independiente), o desenchufar el
cable del receptáculo de la pared.

Protección del cables de alimentación • Los cables de alimentación eléctrica se deben instalar en

lugares donde no sean pisados ni apretados por objetos que se puedan apoyar sobre ellos.

Reparaciones/mantenimiento • Solicitar siempre los servicios técnicos de personal calificado. En el

interior no hay partes a las que el usuario deba acceder. Para evitar riesgo de electrocución, no
intentar personalmente la reparación/mantenimiento de este equipo, ya que al abrir o extraer las
tapas puede quedar expuesto a voltajes peligrosos u otros riesgos.

Ranuras y aberturas • Si el equipo posee ranuras o orificios en su caja/alojamiento, es para evitar el

sobrecalientamiento de componentes internos sensibles. Estas aberturas nunca se deben obstruir
con otros objetos.

Batería de litio • Existe riesgo de explosión si esta batería se coloca en la posición incorrecta. Cambiar

esta batería únicamente con el mismo tipo (o su equivalente) recomendado por el fabricante.
Desachar las baterías usadas siguiendo las instrucciones del fabricante.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 • Introduction .......................................................................................................1-1

About the MediaLink Switchers .................................................................................. 1-2

Features and Options........................................................................................................ 1-2

Standard features .............................................................................................................. 1-2

Chapter 2 • Installation .......................................................................................................... 2-1

UL/Safety Requirements .................................................................................................. 2-2

Mounting the Switcher.................................................................................................... 2-2

Tabletop use .......................................................................................................................2-2

Rack mounting ................................................................................................................... 2-2

MLS 306 Rear Panel and Cabling................................................................................. 2-2

Power connection .............................................................................................................. 2-3

Input connections .............................................................................................................. 2-3

Video output connections .................................................................................................2-3

Audio output connections ................................................................................................ 2-4

Control connections........................................................................................................... 2-4

MLS 506, MLS 506MA, and MLS 506SA

Rear Panels and Cabling.................................................................................................. 2-6

Power connection .............................................................................................................. 2-6

Input connections .............................................................................................................. 2-6

Video output connections .................................................................................................2-7

Audio output connections ................................................................................................ 2-8

Audio processing connections — MLS 506MA, MLS 506SA only................................... 2-10

Control connections......................................................................................................... 2-11

Setting the -6dB Jumpers ............................................................................................. 2-13

Application Diagrams ..................................................................................................... 2-14

Chapter 3 • Operation ............................................................................................................. 3-1

Front Panel Features and Basic Operation .............................................................3-2

Menus, Configuration, and Adjustments ................................................................... 3-4

Moving through menus by using front panel controls ................................................... 3-4

Menu overview .................................................................................................................. 3-4

Menu details ......................................................................................................................3-6

System reset .......................................................................................................................3-6

Executive mode ..................................................................................................................3-7

Remote Control of the MLS ........................................................................................... 3-7

Chapter 4 • Serial Communication................................................................................. 4-1

RS-232 Programmer’s Guide .......................................................................................... 4-2

Host-to-MLS communications ........................................................................................... 4-2

Command/response table for SIS commands ................................................................... 4-3

Command/response table for special function SIS commands ........................................ 4-6

MediaLink Switchers • Table of Contents

i

Table of Contents, cont’d

Control Software for Windows....................................................................................4-7

Installing the software ...................................................................................................... 4-7

Using the control program ................................................................................................ 4-7

User Mode ........................................................................................................................... 4-7

Switcher (MLS) Config ........................................................................................................ 4-8

Saving and restoring configurations ................................................................................ 4-9

Using the help program .................................................................................................. 4-10

Key to file names ............................................................................................................. 4-10

Appendix A • Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories.................... A-1

Specifications....................................................................................................................... A-2

Part Numbers and Accessories .................................................................................... A-5

Included Parts.................................................................................................................... A-5

Accessories......................................................................................................................... A-5

Appendix B • Labeling ............................................................................................................B-1

Labeling Buttons on the Switcher..............................................................................B-2

Button-Label Generator Software..............................................................................B-2

Installing the software ......................................................................................................B-2

Using the software to make labels ...................................................................................B-2

Label templates ................................................................................................................... B-3

All trademarks mentioned in this manual are the properties of their respective owners.

68-598-01 Rev. A

Printed in the USA

10 01

ii MediaLink Switchers • Table of Contents

MediaLink Switchers

Chapter One

1

Introduction

About the MediaLink Switchers

Features

Introduction

About the MediaLink Switchers

The Extron MediaLink™ switchers (MLS 306, MLS 506, MLS 506MA [70V/100V],
and MLS 506SA) are a family of rack-mountable, six-input (three video/S-video,
three RGB/computer video) switchers with audio control. The MLS 506, MLS 506MA,
and MLS 506SA can also accept component video input. Each can be used in stand­alone applications or can be connected to a MediaLink Controller (MLC 206) to add
control functions for integration into small to mid-sized audio-visual systems.

“MLS”, “MediaLink Switcher”, and “switcher” will be used interchangeably in this
manual to refer to all models of MediaLink switchers.

Features and Options

Standard features

Flexible control options — The MediaLink switchers can be controlled via RS-232

Audio volume control — All MLS models offer audio preamp volume adjustment

Bass and treble control — The bass and treble levels can be set separately for each

Audio amplification (MLS 506MA and MLS 506SA only) — The MLS 506MA and

Customizable input labeling — Customized input selection button labels can be

Executive mode — You can set the switcher to executive mode to prevent changes

Triple-Action Switching

connection to a third party control system or an Extron MediaLink Controller.
They can also be controlled by contact closure devices.

(attenuation) via a front panel rotary knob.

audio input.

MLS 506SA offer amplified outputs and an effects loop that allows you to add
a device such as an equalizer into the system ahead of the amplified audio
output.

created by using a labeling machine such as a Brother P-touch labeler, or you
can use Extron software to create and print labels.

to settings from being made from the front panel controls. When executive
mode is active, only input selection can be performed from the front panel.

™

— When the MLS switches between RGB inputs, the
screen goes black briefly (you set the delay time) while the display locks on to
the new input’s sync signal, then the RGB picture is displayed without glitches.

WORK

DOC

MAC

CELL CAMERA

RGBHV

OUTPUTS

R

MENU NEXT

BGH

AUDIO OUT

LRLR

VOLUME

ADJUST

MLS 306

MediaLink Switcher

V

Y/C

VID

MLC/IR

FIXEDVARIABLE

ABC

RS232

CONTACT CLOSURE

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

.5A MAX

VCRDVD

TUNER

123456

INPUT 1

INPUT 2 INPUT 3 INPUT 4 INPUT 5 INPUT 6

LR LR LR LR LR LR

MLS 306 MediaLink Switcher

WORK

DOC

MAC

CELL CAMERA

INPUT 4

INPUT 5

INPUT 6

RH/

HV

V

RH/

HV

HV

V

G

B

V

G

B

RGB

RH/

HV

V

G

B

SENDLRRETURN

LR

R-Y

Y

B-Y

AUX/MIXEFFECTS

LR

YUV

MENU NEXT

S-VIDEO

Y

C

VIDEO

AUDIO OUT

LRLR

MIX

VOLUME

STEREO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

LEFT RIGHT

MLC/IR RS232

FIXEDVARIABLE

ABC

CLIP

ADJUST

MLS 506SA

MediaLink Switcher

CONTACT CLOSURE

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

.5A MAX

VCRDVD

TUNER

123456

INPUT 1

INPUT 2

INPUT 3

VIDEO

R-Y

VIDEO

R-Y

VIDEO

R-Y

RH/

Y

Y

Y

G

B-Y

B-Y

C

LR LR LR LR LR LR

B-Y

C

C

B

MLS 506SA MediaLink Switcher

MediaLink Switchers • Introduction1-2

MediaLink Switchers

Chapter Two

2

Installation

UL/Safety Requirements

Mounting the Switcher

MLS 306 Rear Panel and Cabling

MLS 506, MLS 506MA, and MLS 506SA Rear Panels and Cabling

Setting the -6dB Jumpers

Application Diagrams

Installation

UL/Safety Requirements

The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) requirements listed below pertain to the safe
installation and operation of a MediaLink Switcher.

1. Do not use the switcher near water.

2. Clean the switcher only with a dry cloth.

3. Do not install the switcher near any heat source, such as a radiator, heat

4. Unplug the switcher during lightning storms or when it will be unused for

Mounting the Switcher

Tabletop use

Each MLS switcher comes with rack mounting brackets and rubber feet. For table­top use, attach a self-adhesive rubber foot to each corner of the bottom of the unit.

Rack mounting

For rack mounting, do not install the rubber feet. If you need to change the settings
of the -6dB internal jumpers (to apply a -6dB attenuation to audio ouput), and set
the jumpers before rack mounting the switcher. See
page 2-12 for details on the jumpers.

Attach the provided rack mounting brackets
to the switcher with machine screws, as
shown at right, then fasten the
switcher to the rack using the
supplied machine screws.

For the models with
audio amplification
(MLS 506MA/SA) we
recommend allowing one
rack unit of space
(1.75”/4.5 cm) above and
below the switcher for air
circulation to prevent
overheating. There is no
cooling fan in the MLS
switcher.

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

register, stove, or another apparatus (including amplifiers) that produces heat.

long periods.

CLIP

VOLUME

MIX

ADJUST

MLS 506

MENU NEXT

MediaLink Switcher

DOC

WORK
CELL CAMERA

MAC

TUNER

VCRDVD

1 2 3 456

Rack mounting the MediaLink Switcher

MLS 306 Rear Panel and Cabling

2 3 4 5 6

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

1

.5A MAX

MLS 306 Rear Panel

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-2

INPUT 1
LR LR LR LR LR LR

INPUT 2 INPUT 3 INPUT 4 INPUT 5 INPUT 6

RGBHV

OUTPUTS

R

BGH

LRLR

AUDIO OUT

V

FIXEDVARIABLE

ABC

MLC/IR

Y/C

CONTACT CLOSURE

VID

RS232

7 8 9

Power connection

AC power connector and power indicator LED — Plug a standard IEC power

1

cord into this connector to connect the switcher to a 100 to 240VAC, 50 Hz or
60 Hz power source. The LED ( ) lights while the MLS is receiving power.

Input connections

Inputs 1–3 — For inputs 1, 2, and 3, connect a cable from the video source to

2

either (choose one)

• the BNC connector (composite video) or

• the 4-pin mini DIN connector (S-video ).
Input configuration is not needed for these inputs.

For audio input, wire the audio input connector as shown in the following
illustration.

Tip

Sleeve

Tip

Sleeve

Unbalanced Stereo Input

(high impedance)

LR

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

Balanced Stereo Input

(high impedance) (600 ohms)

LR

Sleeve (s)

600 ohms

Tip

Ring

Tip

Ring

600 ohms

Balanced Stereo Input

LR

Tip

Sleeve

Tip

Sleeve

Unbalanced Mono Input

(high impedance)

Inputs 4–6 — For inputs 4, 5, and 6, connect a computer to the 15-pin HD

3

connector for RGB computer video input.
Each input’s audio source can be connected to either the female 3.5 mm mini

stereo jack (unbalanced input), or the 3.5 mm, 5-pole captive screw connector
(balanced or unbalanced input).
Wire the stereo jack audio input connectors as
shown at right. Wire the captive screw
connectors as shown above in

Video output connections

RGB computer video outputs — Connect a cable from the 15-pin HD

4

connector or the five BNC connectors to the projector for computer video
output from inputs 4–6. The output signal will be in the same format
(RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB, RsGsBs) as the input signal. The signal is switched,
but not processed. The two RGB video outputs (15-pin HD and BNC
connectors) are simultaneously active. Cables can be connected between the
projector and one, some, or all of the switcher’s video outputs.

Cable the BNC connectors according to the signal format as shown below.

LR

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

Balanced Mono Input

(high impedance) (600 ohms)

2

.

600 ohms

LR

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Ring

Tip

Tip

Balanced Mono Input

Tip (+) Sleeve (Gnd)

Ring (R, -)

LR

Tip (L, +)

Sleeve (Gnd)

RBGHV RBGHV RBG HV

RGBSRGBHV RGsB

S-video (Y/C) output — Connect a cable from these BNCs to the projector (Y/

5

(Sync on Green)

luma on left, C/chroma on the right) for S-video output.
Composite video (Vid) output connector — Connect a cable from this BNC

6

connector to the projector for composite video output.

,

RsGsBs

2-3MediaLink Switchers • Installation

Installation, cont’d

Audio output connections

Audio Out(put) connectors — Connect an audio output device to either

7

connector for balanced or unbalanced stereo audio output. A device such as a
tape recorder can be connected to the Fixed output while a power amplifier
can be connected to the Variable output. Wire each captive screw connector as
shown below.

Tip

See Caution

Sleeve (s)

Tip

See Caution

Unbalanced Output

AUDIO OUT

LR

Balanced Output

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

AUDIO OUT

LR

CAUTION

Connect the sleeve to ground (Gnd). Connecting the sleeve to a negative
(-) terminal will damage the audio output circuits.

The Fixed connector outputs audio at a fixed level and is unaffected by
changes made via the front panel Volume/Adjust knob. The Variable
connector outputs audio that can be attenuated by turning the Volume knob.

Control connections

MLC/IR port — Connect a cable between this port and an optional Extron

8

MLC 206 MediaLink Controller or an optional IR Link IR signal repeater.

• The MLC provides remote control of input switching and volume.

• The IR Link accepts modulated IR signals from a remote control so the
remote control can be used for selecting the switcher’s inputs.

Extron Comm-Link cable is recommended for this connection. If you use
Comm-Link cable, the switcher and controller can be up to 250 feet (76.2 m)
apart. Wire the captive screw connector for connection to either an IR Link or
an MLC 206 as shown below.

MLC/IR

ABC

MediaLink Switcher to an IR Link

Switcher
rear panel
MLC/IR port

C

+12VDC
Ground ( )
IR (IR Link)

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

INPUT 1

INPUT 2 INPUT 3 INPUT 4 INPUT 5 INPUT 6

ABCDE

IR Link
port

IR

D

LR LR LR LR LR LR

.5A MAX

MLS 306 Rear Panel

MLA-Remote

R

BGH

V

Y/C

RGBHV

AUDIO OUT

FIXED VARIABLE

OUTPUTS

LRLR

VID

MLC/IR

ABC

RS232

CONTACT CLOSURE

SIGNAL

IR LINK

IR Link

MLC/IR

ABC

MediaLink
Switcher
rear panel
MLC/IR port

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

INPUT 1

INPUT 2 INPUT 3 INPUT 4 INPUT 5 INPUT 6

LR LR LR LR LR LR

.5A MAX

R

BGH

V

Y/C

RGBHV

AUDIO OUT

FIXED VARIABLE

OUTPUTS

LRLR

VID

MLC/IR

ABC

RS232

CONTACT CLOSURE

MLS 306 Rear Panel

+12VDC

Ground ( )

B

Receive (Rx)

A

Transmit (Tx)

+12VDC

Ground ( )

Transmit (Tx)
Receive (Rx)

NOTE If you use cable that has a

drain wire, tie the drain wire
to ground at both ends.

B
A

AB

MLS / Power

MLC
MLS/Power
port

ABCDE ABC

DE ABC ABD

1A 1B 2A 2B 3A 3B

IR

RS-232

Display/Source Control

Relays IR/RCM

MLC 206 Bottom Panel

NOTE The switcher provides

power to the controller.

123456

Tally Out

MLS

Extron Switcher Control

USA

/Power

33-644-01 A

07 01

Printed in the

MediaLink Switcher to an MLC 206

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-4

Do not connect RS-232 control devices to the MLC/IR 5-pole captive screw
connector and to the 9-pin RS-232/Contact Closure port simultaneously. A
conflict may occur.
Connect devices to both ports at the same time only if

• the 9-pin connector is used for contact closure and

• the MLC/IR port is used for RS-232.

RS-232/Contact Closure port — This port can function as an RS-232 port or as

9

a contact closure port. Do not connect RS-232 devices to both this and the
MLC/IR port. See the above note.

Pin

RS-232

function

1 – Input 1 Input 1

2 Tx Transmit data –
3 Rx Receive data –
4 – Input 2 Input 2
5 Gnd Signal ground –
6 – Input 3 Input 3
7 – Input 4 Input 4
8 – Input 5 Input 5
9– Input 6 Input 6

Description

Contact closure

51

DB9 Pin Locations

96

Female

• For a stand-alone MLS switcher, connect a cable from the host computer
or a third party control system to this 9-pin D connector to set up and
remotely control the switcher. Alternatively, connect a contact closure
keypad to this connector for remote control of input selection.

• For an MLS switcher slaved to an MLC controller, connect a cable from
the MLC’s MLS/Power port to the switcher’s MLC/IR connector (not to
this 9-pin RS-232 port). Once the system has been cabled and set up via
the Windows-based software, the MLC or a host computer
communicating through the MLC can be used to remotely control the
switcher. Refer to chapter four of the MLC 206 User’s Manual and the
MediaLink Control Program help file for details on configuring an MLC­MLS system.

CAUTION

If the switcher is connected to an MLC 206 controller via the MLC/IR
port, do not connect an RS-232 device to the MLS’s 9-pin RS-232/Contact
Closure port. Conflicts between RS-232 signals received from both ports
could cause system disruptions.
When an MLC 206 is connected to the MLC/IR port, a contact closure
device may be attached to the 9-pin connector.

2-5MediaLink Switchers • Installation

Installation, cont’d

MLS 506, MLS 506MA, and MLS 506SA
Rear Panels and Cabling

2 3 4 5 6

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

1

.5A MAX

MLS 506 Rear Panel

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

1

.5A MAX

MLS 506 MA Rear Panel

INPUT 1

VIDEO

Y

C

L LRR LR

INPUT 2

R-Y

VIDEO

R-Y

VIDEO

Y

B-Y

B-Y

C

2 3 4 5 6 7

INPUT 1

VIDEO

Y

C

L LRR LR

INPUT 2

R-Y

VIDEO

R-Y

VIDEO

Y

B-Y

B-Y

C

INPUT 3

Y

C

INPUT 3

Y

C

R-Y

B-Y

R-Y

B-Y

INPUT 4

RH/

G

B

INPUT 4

RH/

G

B

INPUT 5

RH/

HV

V

LR LR LR

HV

V

LR LR LR

HV

V

G

B

INPUT 5

RH/

HV

V

G

B

INPUT 6

RH/

HV

V

G

B

INPUT 6

RH/

HV

V

G

B

YUV

RGB

RH/

G

B

RH/

G

B

SENDLRRETURN

LR

R-Y

HV

Y

V

B-Y

YUV

RGB

R-Y

HV

Y

V

B-Y

AUX/MIXEFFECTS

LR

9 11

10 12 13

S-VIDEO

Y

C

S-VIDEO

Y

C

VIDEO

VIDEO

AUDIO OUT

11

AUDIO OUT

LRLR

LRLR

MLC/IR RS232

FIXEDVARIABLE

ABC

MONO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

4 ohm

COMM 8 ohm 70V

MLC/IR RS232

FIXEDVARIABLE

ABC

CONTACT CLOSURE

12 13

CONTACT CLOSURE

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

1

.5A MAX

MLS 506 SA Rear Panel

Power connection

Input connections

2 3 4 5 6 8

INPUT 1

VIDEO

Y

C

LR LR LR LR LR LR

INPUT 2

VIDEO

R-Y

Y

B-Y

C

AC power connector and power indicator LED — Plug a standard IEC power

1

INPUT 3

VIDEO

R-Y

Y

B-Y

C

R-Y

B-Y

INPUT 4

RH/

HV

V

G

B

INPUT 5

RH/

HV

V

G

B

INPUT 6

RH/

G

B

cord into this connector to connect the switcher to a 100 to 240VAC, 50 Hz or
60 Hz power source. The LED ( ) lights while the MLS is receiving power.

Inputs 1–3 — For inputs 1, 2, and 3, connect cables from the video sources to

2

the MLS’s input BNC connectors according to the video format as shown in
the following illustration. You must also select between “Vid” (for composite
video or S-video) and “YUV” (for component video) in the LCD menu or via
the Windows-based setup program. See pages 3-5, 3-6, and 4-9.

HV

V

YUV

R-Y

Y

B-Y

AUX/MIXEFFECTS

LR

S-VIDEO

Y

C

VIDEO

AUDIO OUT

11

FIXEDVARIABLE

LRLR

STEREO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

LEFT RIGHT

MLC/IR RS232

ABC

RGB

RH/

HV

V

G

B

SENDLRRETURN

LR

9 10 12 13

CONTACT CLOSURE

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-6

VIDEO

VIDEO

VIDEO

R-Y

R-Y

R-Y

Y

B-Y

C

Composite

video

Y

C

S-video

(Y, C)

B-Y

Y

B-Y

C

Component

video

(R-Y, Y, B-Y)

Video input connections for MLC 506/506MA/506SA inputs 1–3

For audio input, wire the audio input connector as shown below.

Sleeve

Sleeve

Tip

Tip

LR

Unbalanced Stereo Input

(high impedance)

Sleeve

Sleeve

Tip

Tip

LR

Unbalanced Mono Input

(high impedance)

Inputs 4–6 — For inputs 4, 5, and 6, connect a computer to the

3

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

Balanced Stereo Input

(high impedance) (600 ohms)

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

Balanced Mono Input

(high impedance) (600 ohms)

LR

LR

600 ohms

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

600 ohms

Balanced Stereo Input

600 ohms

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

Balanced Mono Input

appropriate BNC connectors for RGB computer video input.

LR

LR

RH/

HV

V

G

B

RGBHV

(separate

H & V sync)

RH/

G V

B

Connect each input’s stereo audio source to the 3.5 mm, 5-pole captive screw
connector for balanced or unbalanced input. Wire the audio input connectors
as shown above in

Video output connections

RGB computer video output — Connect coaxial cables from these five BNC

4

connectors to the projector for computer video output from inputs 4–6. Cable
the BNC connectors according to the signal format as shown in the following
illustration. The output signal will be in the same format (RGBHV, RGBS,
RGsB, RsGsBs) as the input signal. The signal is switched, but not processed.
Cables can be connected between the projector and one, some, or all of the
switcher’s video outputs.

HV

RGBS

(composite

sync)

.

2

R H/

HV

G V

B

RGsB/RsGsBs

(sync on green; or

sync on red, green, & blue)

2-7MediaLink Switchers • Installation

Installation, cont’d

Cable the BNC connectors according to the signal format as shown below.

RH/

HV

V

G

B

RGBHV

(separate

H & V sync)

RH/

G V

B

RGB output connections for MLC 506/506MA/506SA

Component video (YUV) output — Connect a cable from these three BNC

5

connectors to the projector for component output.
Composite video (Video) and S-video outputs — Connect a cable from the

6

top BNC connector for composite video output to the projector. Connect a
cable from the lower two BNC connectors to the projector for S-video output.

Audio output connections

Mono Amplified Output (MLS 506MA only) — Cable speakers to this

7

output for 30 watt amplified mono audio output. This output provides a
mono signal even if the input is a stereo signal. The Audio Out captive screw

11

connectors (
Follow the appropriate Mono Amplified Output wiring diagram for the type

MONO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

COMM 8 ohm 70V

MONO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

COMM 8 ohm 70V

) can output stereo audio.

4 ohm

4 ohm

HV

RGBS

(composite

sync)

Mono +

Ground ( )

sync on red, green, & blue)

Mono +

R H/

HV

G V

B

RGsB/RsGsBs

(sync on green; or

4 Ohm Load

of load you want
to use: 4 ohm,
8 ohm, or a
distributed 70 volt
or 100 volt
(depending on the
model) system.
The 70 volt model
is shown here; the
wiring is the same
for both versions
of the MLS 506MA.

Ground ( )

Two 8 ohm speakers in
parallel make a 4 ohm load.

4 Ohm Total Load

Connecting a 4 ohm load to the mono amplified ouput

Mono +

MONO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

4 ohm

COMM 8 ohm 70V

Ground ( )

8 Ohm Load

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-8

Mono +

MONO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

4 ohm

COMM 8 ohm 70V

Ground ( )

Two 4 ohm speakers in
series make an 8 ohm load.

8 Ohm Total Load

Connecting an 8 ohm load to the mono amplified output

70V

or

100V

MONO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

4 ohm

COMM 8 ohm 100V

70V

Ground ( )

100V Speakers
(depending
on the model)

Connecting a 70 or 100 volt system to the mono amplified output

or

CAUTION

Connect a 70 volt speaker system to the 70 volt model, and connect a 100
volt speaker system to the 100 volt model. Connecting a 70 volt speaker
system to the 100 volt model can cause damage to the switcher and
speakers and create a safety hazard.

Stereo Amplified Output (MLS 506SA only) — Cable speakers to this output

8

for 30 watt amplified stereo audio output. Wire the connector as shown
below for stereo output to 4 ohm or 8 ohm loads.

Left +

4 Ohm or
8 Ohm

Left –

STEREO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

LEFT RIGHT

Stereo amplified output:
30 watts per channel into a 4 ohm or 8 ohm load.

NOTE

You must also select the appropriate
speaker load (4 ohm or 8 ohm) from
the SpkrLoad submenu of the Audio
Settings LCD menu or via the
control software.

Right –

4 Ohm or
8 Ohm

Right +

2-9MediaLink Switchers • Installation