No part of this documentation may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, without the prior written
permission of Electrosonic Ltd.
The information in this documentation is supplied without warranty of any kind, either directly
or indirectly, and is subject to change without prior written notice. Electrosonic, its employees or
appointed representatives will not be held responsible for any damages to software, hardware, or
data, howsoever arising as a direct or indirect result of the product(s) mentioned herein.
Issued by:
Product Support Team,
Electrosonic Ltd.,
Hawley Mill,
Hawley Road,
Dartford,
Kent,
DA2 7SY,
United Kingdom.
Documentation written and designed by Andrew M. Bailey.
Printed in the United Kingdom.
IMPORTANT SAFETY MARKINGS
The following symbols are used throughout this User Guide to advise you of important instructions:
This symbol warns the presence of a voltage of sufficient magnitude to cause a
severe or fatal electric shock. Follow the appropriate instructions carefully to
avoid the risk of injury.
This symbol indicates an important instruction for the correct and safe installation,
operation or maintenance of your ImageStar HD system. Failure to comply with such
instructions may result in injury to personnel or damage to the ImageStar HD
hardware.
This product conforms with the protection requirements of the EC Directive
89/336/EEC (relating to Electromagnetic Compatibility) and EC Directive 73/23/EEC
(relating to Low Voltage) by application of the following standards:
EN 55103-1:1996; EN 55103-2:1996; EN 60950:2000
Provided that:
• The product is used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• The product is not connected to any peripheral equipment that is not CE marked.
This device complies with part 15B of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two 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.
ImageStar HD is a compact, high performance image processor for scaling a variety of input source
types, including high definition video or graphics, across up to four displays. Using additional units it is
possible to create larger target displays.
Up to four inputs may be simultaneously connected to the unit. A built-in switcher allows the displayed
source to be selected. Each output can display a magnified component of the selected source.
Firmware & Software Versions
This User Guide is based on the following ImageStar HD firmware and software versions:
• ImageStar HD firmware v1.0.0.23
• ImageStar Configuration software v1.2.3
Electrosonic may periodically release updates to the firmware or configuration software in order to
provide new or enhanced functionality. Details of any updates can be obtained by:
• Clicking the Product Support link on the System Disc browser, or
• Selecting the Check for Updates option in the Help menu of ImageStar HD Configuration, or
• Visiting the Electrosonic web site www.electrosonic.com/support
Page 10 I460GB issue 4
IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE Section 1: Introduction
ImageStar HD
Typical System Application
Single Unit Example
Using a single ImageStar HD to show a source on a 2×2 target display:
SourceImageStar HD
Multiple Unit Example
Using four ImageStar HD units to show a source on a 4×4 target display. Each ImageStar HD drives
four screens in the display:
Source
Distribution Amplifier
ImageStar HD
ImageStar HD
ImageStar HD
I460GB issue 4 Page 11
Section 1: Introduction IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE
ELECTROSONIC
Front Panel Features
CONTROL PANEL
SELECT
button
Active Input
Indicators
Infra Red
Sensor
POWER
NETWORK
INDICATORS
Indicators
The green power indicator is lit continuously when the unit is receiving power from the
external PSU.
The amber network indicator flashes when network data is being received or transmitted.
SELECT Button
A push-button used to switch between connected source inputs.
INPUT (1-4) Indicators
During normal operation the lit indicator shows which input is currently selected for display.
During the boot-up period (around 30 seconds after power is applied or following a reset) these
indicators will cycle through various diagnostic patterns.
Infra Red Sensor
Reserved for future use.
Page 12 I460GB issue 4
IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE Section 1: Introduction
DVI-I
DVI-I
DVI-I
OUTPUT
Rear Panel Features
SOURCE INPUT CONNECTORS
RGB
Composite / S-Video
Y
VIDEO
3
4
RGB
1
RGB
2
SVIDEO
C
VIDEO
142
DVI-I
3
CONNECTOR
12V DC
REG
2A MAX
USB
ES5555
POWER
SUPPLY
INPUT
Full details of connector types, pin-outs and specifications can be found in Section 5: Technical Data.
Briefly, these are as follows:
NETWORK
CONNECTOR
DISPLAY OUTPUT CONNECTORS
Power Supply Input
The ImageStar HD requires a 12V power supply via this connector. A suitable mains operated power
supply unit (PSU) is provided.
IMPORTANT: When cycling the mains power to the PSU, wait at least 45 seconds after powering
down before powering up again.
Network Connector
Used for device setup/configuration and downloading new firmware.
USB Connector
Used for downloading new firmware.
Source Input Connectors
Input connectors for up to two analog RGB/component video sources, plus up to two Composite
sources or one S-Video source. See pages 27 to 29 for connection methods.
Display Output Connectors
Output connectors for up to four analog or digital display devices. Each output can be mapped to any
position in a tiled display. See pages 30 and 31 for connection methods.
IMPORTANT: Clip-on Ferrites (e.g. Würth part no. 74271132) must be fitted to each output cable as
near as possible to the output connector.
I460GB issue 4 Page 13
Section 1: Introduction IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE
Source Compatibility
Source Types
ImageStar HD provides inputs for up to four sources, which can comprise:
Up to two analog RGB or component video (YCrCb or YPrPb) sources, plus
Up to two Composite sources or one S-Video source.
A built-in source switcher is used to select the input to be displayed. This can be operated either by
pressing the SELECT button on the front panel, or using remote commands via the network control
port.
Full auto-detection is provided on each input, allowing a wide range of standard source types to be
connected without the need for any further configuration. For a full list of supported standard modes
see page 80.
NOTE: PAL 60 format is not supported. PAL 60 is commonly output by European VCRs when playing
back an NTSC tape.
Automatic gain control (AGC) ensures optimum source display with signals as low as 20% of normal
amplitude.
NOTE: Due to the dynamic nature of AGC an identical source fed to different inputs may not display
with identical results.
Macrovision-encoded Sources
Many pre-recorded videos and DVD’s are copy-protected by a system called Macrovision®. It works
by inserting variable intensity signals into the non-visible region of the source signal. These ‘false’
signals ‘confuse’ the AGC circuit of conventional recording devices, preventing the source from being
copied satisfactorily.
Typically more than 90% of Macrovision (type 1, 2 or 3) encoded sources can be viewed successfully
using ImageStar HD. However, certain sources may suffer some visual disturbance or fail to achieve
full signal lock.
Page 14 I460GB issue 4
IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE Section 1: Introduction
Display Capability
ImageStar HD allows any one of the four possible inputs to be scaled up to fill the target display.
Output Channels
The ImageStar HD has four output channels, each capable of driving a wide range of display devices.
Up to four outputs can be driven with a resolution of up to SXGA (1280 × 1024 pixels). Beyond this
resolution and up to SXGA+ (1408 ×1050) or 1080i (1920 × 1080i) up to two outputs can be driven.
For a full list of supported output modes see page 85
Output/Display Mapping
By default, the ImageStar HD output channels are configured to drive a 2×2 target display. However,
any rectangular arrangement of screens can be accommodated by changing the output mapping.
On a single unit, for example, display layouts of 1×2, 1×3, 1×4, 2×1, 3×1 or 4×1 screens are possible.
By using multiple units, the overall size of the target display can be extended to 8×8 screens (or
equivalent rectangular arrangement using up to 64 screens).
Even larger displays are possible but these are difficult to quantify because size limits become
dependant on source and display screen resolutions. Furthermore, an 8×8 target display will require
16 ImageStar HD units to drive it and may not be the most cost-effective solution to driving such a
large display!
I460GB issue 4 Page 15
Section 1: Introduction IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE
Original
Source Scaling & Viewporting
Typically the selected input source will be scaled to fill the entire target display area. Where the
aspect ratio of the display does not match the aspect ratio of the source, the source will usually be
stretched (either horizontally or vertically) to fit the display.
The following examples show the effect of source scaling on different display layouts:
Original 4:3 Source
Stretched Vertically
for a 1 x 4 Display
Stretched Horizontally
for a 4 x 1 Display
Alternatively, ImageStar HD offers Viewporting capability which allows you to display a specific area
of the source frame. One possible use of this capability is to show specially created source content to
be used on a rectangular display without distortion:
‘Pillarbox’ Source
Viewported
for a 1 x 4 Display
Original
‘Letterbox’ Source
Viewported
for a 4 x 1 Display
Page 16 I460GB issue 4
IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE Section 1: Introduction
Control Capability
Front Panel Control
The SELECT push-button on the front panel provides source selection. Each press will switch to the
next source input. The currently selected source input is shown by the four INPUT indicators (labeled
1 to 4).
IR Control
This feature is not currently supported.
Configuration Software
Initial setup and remote control of the ImageStar HD is achieved using the ImageStar HD
Configuration software running on a separate PC or laptop. For further details, see Section 3.
NOTE: For more detailed information about the control protocol used by ImageStar HD and how to
control it via HyperTerminal, refer to Appendix A.
I460GB issue 4 Page 17
Section 1: Introduction IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE
Accessories
Supplied Accessories
In addition to this User Guide, the ImageStar HD is supplied with the following accessories. If any of
these items is missing or damaged, please contact your Electrosonic dealer immediately:
Item Qty Re-order Code
12V Power Supply Unit (PSU)
IEC Mains Cord for PSU
(with 3-pin ‘Edison’ plug)
For use in the USA.
IEC Mains Cord for PSU
(unterminated)
For use in Europe and all other countries.
See page 25 for plug wiring instructions.
DVI-A to 15-pin HD Adapter
Used to connect 15-pin VGA style
connectors to the DVI outputs.
System Disc
A CD containing user documentation,
support information, firmware files and
configuration software.
1 ES5555-PSU
1 CA4291LF
1 CA429LF
4 CA10026LF
1 M20080
Optional Accessories
The following optional accessories are also available for use with the ImageStar HD – these must
be ordered separately from your Electrosonic dealer:
Item Order Code
Rack Mounting Kit
A kit that allows an ImageStar HD to be installed in a 19inch
equipment rack. Full instructions are included with the kit.
Page 18 I460GB issue 4
ES5555-RM
IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE Section 2: Installation
SECTION 2:
SECTION 2:
SECTION 2:SECTION 2:
Installation
I460GB issue 4 Page 19
Section 2: Installation IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE
Choosing a Suitable Location
The ImageStar HD is designed to be used either as a free-standing unit or (by using the optional kit
available) to be mounted in a 19 inch equipment rack.
CAUTION
Whichever installation method you choose there are certain environmental
requirements, detailed on page 21, which must be observed in order to ensure safe
and reliable operation.
For rack-mounted applications the criteria detailed on page 22, must also be
observed.
Page 20 I460GB issue 4
IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE Section 2: Installation
Environmental Requirements
CAUTION
The criteria on this page must be observed for all installations of the ImageStar HD,
whether free-standing or rack-mounted.
Orientation
The ImageStar HD must be operated in the horizontal position only. When used free-standing it must
be placed on a stable, flat and level surface. Ensure that the surface finish will not be affected by the
heat produced by the ImageStar HD when in use.
Temperature
DO NOT install or operate the ImageStar HD in an area where the ambient temperature exceeds
35°C (95°F) or falls below 5°C (35°F).
Remember that, as with all electronic equipment, the ImageStar HD and its associated PSU also
produces heat which may affect the ambient temperature.
After the ImageStar HD has been in use for a period of time the external casing will be very warm to
the touch. While the temperature is well within safe limits please be aware that it may be hotter than
you are expecting. Ensure that any adjacent surfaces will not be affected by the heat.
Ventilation
No special ventilation is required. However, it is recommended that free air circulation is permitted
around the unit.
Humidity & Water
DO NOT install or operate the ImageStar HD in an area in which the ambient relative humidity
exceeds 85% or in an area that is prone to condensation.
DO NOT install or operate the ImageStar HD near water or in a location which may be prone to water
seepage — the ImageStar HD is not waterproof.
I460GB issue 4 Page 21
Section 2: Installation IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE
Rack-mount Requirements
CAUTION
For rack-mounted installations, the following criteria must be observed (in addition to
the Environmental Requirements listed on page 21)
Mounting & Support
ALWAYS use the special rack-mount kit (available separately) to secure the ImageStar HD. Full
details on using the kit are included with the kit.
DO NOT stand other units directly on top of the ImageStar HD when it is rack-mounted as this will
place excessive strain on the mounting brackets.
Ventilation
ALWAYS ensure that the rack enclosure is adequately ventilated. Sufficient airflow must be achieved
(by convection or forced-air cooling) to satisfy the ventilation requirements of all items of equipment
installed within the rack.
A ventilation gap of at least 44mm (1U) is recommended above and below the ImageStar HD and
adjacent surfaces or equipment.
Mains Supply
ALWAYS ensure that the mains power supply is of the correct voltage and frequency for all
equipment within the rack, and that it has a good ground/earth connection.
Where a power strip (mains distribution batten) is used (of either a hard-wired or plug and socket
type), always ensure that the current rating of both the power strip and the supply is sufficient for all
equipment within the rack.
Page 22 I460GB issue 4
IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE Section 2: Installation
Mains Power Connection (via PSU)
The ImageStar HD must be powered from a 12 Volt DC regulated supply. A suitable mains-operated
power supply unit (PSU) is provided. The mains connection details that follow relate to the PSU.
NEVER CONNECT THE ImageStar HD DIRECTLY TO THE MAINS.
ALWAYS use the PSU provided. If a backup/replacement PSU is required,
always use an Electrosonic approved PSU.
Supply Requirements (for PSU)
ALWAYS observe the following instructions to ensure safe and reliable
operation of the PSU.
ALWAYS ensure that the mains supply voltage is single phase only and is within the permitted range:
•100 – 240V AC (0.45A Max.) 50 – 60Hz.
NEVER connect the PSU to a DC supply.
DO NOT allow the mains power point to be overloaded. This is particularly important to check when
powering several items of equipment from a single power point (e.g. within rack-mounted
installations).
WARNING: To avoid the possible risk of electric shock or product damage due to condensation,
ALWAYS allow the PSU to become acclimatized to ambient temperature and humidity for at least
thirty minutes BEFORE switching on. This is particularly important when moving the unit from a cold
to a warm location.
IMPORTANT: When cycling the mains power to the PSU, wait at least 45 seconds after powering
down before powering up again.
NOTE: ThePSU is double-insulated and does not require an earth/ground connection.
I460GB issue 4 Page 23
Section 2: Installation IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE
Mains Power Cord (for PSU)
The mains PSU is equipped with a 3-pin (male) type mains connector which requires a power cord
fitted with a corresponding 3-pin IEC320 (female) connector.
Two power cords are supplied with the PSU, each having a different termination; you must use the
lead appropriate for your country:
In... Use the... Re-order Code
USA and Canada
UK, Europe and all
other countries
WARNING: Do not allow anything to rest on the mains power cord.
cord fitted with the 3-pin
American-style ‘Edison’ plug.
unterminated cord and fit a
suitable plug as described on
page 25.
CA4291
CA429
Page 24 I460GB issue 4
IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE Section 2: Installation
Fitting a Mains Plug
If you are fitting a plug to the unterminated power cord (or replacing an existing plug), you must fit a
plug that:
• is rated for use with mains voltage
• is equipped with a grounding pin/connection
• complies with any applicable National or Local electrical regulations
• is fitted with a correctly rated fuse (applicable to UK-style plugs only – see page 26.)
WARNING: Never attempt to fit or use a plug without a ground or earth pin/connection.
Wiring Details
The wires of both mains power cords (supplied with each ImageStar HD) are color-coded as shown in
the table below; be sure to connect your plug in accordance with the following guidelines:
Connect the wire
colored...
Brown
Blue
Green & Yellow
WARNING — If you are unsure of the connections,
or if the markings in your plug do not match those
given above,
NOTE: The PSU is double-insulated and does not require an earth/ground connection. However, the
earth cable of the mains lead must be connected in the plug.
to the plug terminal identified
with...
‘L’ or ‘Live’ or ‘Line’
(or colored red or brown)
‘N’ or ‘Neutral’
(or colored blue or black)
‘E ’ or ‘E’ or ‘Earth’ or ‘Ground’
(or colored green or green & yellow)
CONSULT A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN.
I460GB issue 4 Page 25
Section 2: Installation IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE
External Supply Protection
The mains power cord supplied with this product is rated at 10A maximum and
must be protected from overload by an external fuse or circuit breaker.
Fused Plugs (UK-style)
If the power cord is fitted with a UK-style BS1363 3-pin plug (i.e. with provision for an internal fuse),
then it must be fitted with a BS1362 ASTA approved 1 inch cartridge fuse.
This fuse must be rated at a maximum of 10A/250V. Since the current draw of the PSU is less than
1A, a fuse of a lower rating not less that 3A/250V may be used.
WARNING: Never attempt to fit a fuse or circuit breaker of a higher maximum rating than shown
above.
Unfused Plugs or Hard-wired
If the power cord is fitted with an unfused plug, or is hard-wired into a power strip (mains distribution
batten), then the power cord must be protected by an external fuse or circuit breaker of a rating shown
in the table below:
Supply Voltage 110V nominal 230V nominal
Maximum Fuse Rating 10A 10A
Minimum Fuse Rating 3A 3A
WARNING: Never attempt to fit a fuse or circuit breaker of a higher
maximum rating than shown above.
Page 26 I460GB issue 4
IMAGESTAR HD USER GUIDE Section 2: Installation
DVI-I
DVI-I
DVI-I
OUTPUT
SVIDEO
NOTE:
Source Connections
RGB Sources
Component sources (e.g. RGB, YCrCb or YPrPb) can be connected to either input 1 or 2:
RGB Source
12V DC
REG
2A MAX
ES5555
RGB Source
For pin-out details of the
RGB inputs, see page 52.
Y
VIDEO
3
4
RGB
1
RGB
2
C
VIDEO
1423
DVI-I
I460GB issue 4 Page 27
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