Extron electronics MLS 306, MLS 506, MLS 506MA, MLS 506SA User Manual

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MLS 506, MLS 506MA, MLS 506SA

MLS 306,

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

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

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.

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

.5A MAX

MLS 306 MediaLink Switcher

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

.5A MAX

MLS 506SA MediaLink Switcher

MediaLink Switchers • Introduction1-2

WORK

VCRDVD

TUNER

123456

INPUT 1

INPUT 2 INPUT 3 INPUT 4 INPUT 5 INPUT 6

LR LR LR LR LR LR

VCRDVD

TUNER

123456

INPUT 1

INPUT 2

INPUT 3

VIDEO

R-Y

VIDEO

R-Y

VIDEO

R-Y

RH/

B-Y

LR LR LR LR LR LR

B-Y

DOC

MAC

CELL CAMERA

WORK

DOC

MAC

CELL CAMERA

INPUT 4

INPUT 5

RH/

VIDEO

FIXEDVARIABLE

AUDIO OUT

LRLR

MLC/IR

ABC

MIX

VOLUME

STEREO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

LEFT RIGHT

MLC/IR RS232

FIXEDVARIABLE

ABC

VOLUME

ADJUST

Y/C

MediaLink Switcher

RS232

CONTACT CLOSURE

CLIP

MLS 506SA

MediaLink Switcher

CONTACT CLOSURE

MLS 306

VID

MENU NEXT

RGBHV

OUTPUTS

INPUT 6

RH/

SENDLRRETURN

BGH

AUDIO OUT

LRLR

MENU NEXT

YUV

RGB

R-Y

S-VIDEO

B-Y

AUX/MIXEFFECTS

MediaLink Switchers

Chapter Two

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.

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

.5A MAX

INPUT 1 LR LR LR LR LR LR

MLS 306 Rear Panel

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-2

INPUT 2 INPUT 3 INPUT 4 INPUT 5 INPUT 6

RGBHV

OUTPUTS

BGH

LRLR

AUDIO OUT

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

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

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)

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

Balanced Stereo Input

(high impedance) (600 ohms)

Sleeve (s)

600 ohms

Tip

Ring

Tip

Ring

600 ohms

Balanced Stereo Input

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

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

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.

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

Balanced Mono Input

(high impedance) (600 ohms)

600 ohms

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Ring

Tip

Balanced Mono Input

Tip (+) Sleeve (Gnd)

Ring (R, -)

Tip (L, +)

Sleeve (Gnd)

RBGHV RBGHV RBG HV

RGBSRGBHV RGsB

(Sync on Green)

RsGsBs

S-video (Y/C) output — Connect a cable from these BNCs to the projector (Y/ luma on left, C/chroma on the right) for S-video output.

Composite video (Vid) output connector — Connect a cable from this BNC connector to the projector for composite video output.

2-3MediaLink Switchers • Installation

Installation, cont’d

Audio output connections

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

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

Balanced Output

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

AUDIO OUT

CAUTION

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

Control connections

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

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

+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

LR LR LR LR LR LR

.5A MAX

MLS 306 Rear Panel

MLA-Remote

BGH

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

NOTE If you use cable that has a

MediaLink Switcher to an MLC 206

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-4

+12VDC

Ground ( )

Receive (Rx)

Transmit (Tx)

+12VDC

Ground ( )

Transmit (Tx) Receive (Rx)

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

B A

MLS / Power

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

.5A MAX

MLS 306 Rear Panel

MLC MLS/Power port

BGH

DE ABC ABD

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

RS-232

Relays IR/RCM

RGBHV

AUDIO OUT

FIXED VARIABLE

OUTPUTS

LRLR

123456

Extron Switcher Control

INPUT 1

INPUT 2 INPUT 3 INPUT 4 INPUT 5 INPUT 6

LR LR LR LR LR LR

ABCDE ABC

Display/Source Control

MLC 206 Bottom Panel

NOTE The switcher provides

power to the controller.

Tally Out

Y/C

VID

MLC/IR

ABC

RS232

CONTACT CLOSURE

33-644-01 A

07 01

Printed in the

USA

MLS

/Power

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

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

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

DB9 Pin Locations

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

.5A MAX

MLS 506 Rear Panel

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

.5A MAX

MLS 506 MA Rear Panel

INPUT 1

VIDEO

L LRR LR

INPUT 2

R-Y

VIDEO

R-Y

VIDEO

B-Y

2 3 4 5 6 7

INPUT 1

VIDEO

L LRR LR

INPUT 2

R-Y

VIDEO

R-Y

VIDEO

B-Y

INPUT 3

R-Y

B-Y

R-Y

B-Y

INPUT 4

RH/

INPUT 4

RH/

INPUT 5

RH/

LR LR LR

INPUT 5

RH/

INPUT 6

RH/

INPUT 6

RH/

YUV

RGB

RH/

SENDLRRETURN

R-Y

B-Y

YUV

RGB

R-Y

B-Y

AUX/MIXEFFECTS

9 11

10 12 13

S-VIDEO

VIDEO

AUDIO OUT

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

.5A MAX

MLS 506 SA Rear Panel

Power connection

Input connections

2 3 4 5 6 8

INPUT 1

VIDEO

LR LR LR LR LR LR

INPUT 2

VIDEO

R-Y

B-Y

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

INPUT 3

VIDEO

R-Y

B-Y

R-Y

B-Y

INPUT 4

RH/

INPUT 5

RH/

INPUT 6

RH/

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

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.

YUV

R-Y

B-Y

AUX/MIXEFFECTS

S-VIDEO

VIDEO

AUDIO OUT

FIXEDVARIABLE

LRLR

STEREO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

LEFT RIGHT

MLC/IR RS232

ABC

RGB

RH/

SENDLRRETURN

9 10 12 13

CONTACT CLOSURE

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-6

VIDEO

R-Y

B-Y

Composite

video

S-video

(Y, C)

B-Y

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

Tip

Unbalanced Stereo Input

(high impedance)

Sleeve

Tip

Unbalanced Mono Input

(high impedance)

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

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)

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.

RH/

RGBHV

(separate

H & V sync)

RH/

G V

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

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.

RGBS

(composite

sync)

R H/

G V

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/

RGBHV

(separate

H & V sync)

RH/

G V

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

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

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

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

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

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

RGBS

(composite

sync)

Mono +

Ground ( )

sync on red, green, & blue)

Mono +

R H/

G V

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.

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

Connecting a 4 ohm load to the mono amplified ouput

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-8

MONO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

4 ohm

COMM 8 ohm 70V

Ground ( )

4 Ohm Total Load

Mono +

Ground ( )

8 Ohm Load

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

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

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

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

Installation, cont’d

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

connector for balanced or unbalanced audio output. A device such as a tape recorder can be connected to the Fixed output while speakers 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

Balanced Output

Tip

Ring

Sleeve (s)

Tip

Ring

AUDIO OUT

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. These preamp outputs can be set for mono or stereo output via the front panel menu or the control software.

Audio processing connections — MLS 506MA, MLS 506SA only

Effects connectors (Send, Return) — These two 3.5 mm, 3-pole captive screw

connectors allow the selected audio signal to be looped through an optional recording device or equalizer before being sent to the main Audio Output ( (preamp outputs) or the amplified audio output (

We recommend using shielded cables no longer than 10 feet (3 meters). These connectors should be wired as shown at right.

An active, unbalanced signal is always available at the Send connector. The Return connector accepts the unbalanced signal that has been routed through an external device. In order for the Return connector to accept an incoming/ returning audio signal, you must enable the Return port via the front panel LCD menu (see pages 3-5 and 3-6) or the Windows-based setup program.

or 8).

Left

Gnd ( )

Right

EFFECTS

RETURN

SEND

Audio Processing

Device

Right

Gnd ( )

Left

)

Aux/Mix input connector — An auxiliary balanced or unbalanced line level

audio signal input at this connector can be mixed with the signal from the selected audio input. Use the front panel Mix knob to control the level of this auxiliary signal. Wire the connector as shown below, which is the same as the wiring for audio inputs 1–6.

Tip

Sleeve

Tip

Sleeve

Unbalanced Stereo Input

Tip

Sleeve

Tip

Sleeve

Unbalanced Mono Input

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-10

(high impedance)

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)

Sleeve (s)

600 ohms

Tip

Ring

Tip

Ring

600 ohms

Balanced Stereo Input

600 ohms

Tip

Ring

Tip

Ring

Balanced Mono Input

Control connections

MLC/IR port — This port allows you to provide remote control of the

switcher. Connect a cable between this port and an optional Extron 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.

MLC/IR

ABC

Switcher rear panel MLC/IR port

MediaLink Switcher to an IR Link

+12VDC Ground ( ) IR (IR Link)

ABCDE

IR Link port

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

.5A MAX

INPUT 1

INPUT 2

VIDEO

R-Y

VIDEO

R-Y

B-Y

L LRR LR

INPUT 3

VIDEO

INPUT 4

R-Y

RH/

B-Y

LR LR LR

RH/

INPUT 5

RH/

YUV

INPUT 6

VIDEO

RGB

RH/

SENDLRRETURN

MONO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

R-Y

S-VIDEO

4 ohm

COMM 8 ohm 70V

B-Y

AUX/MIXEFFECTS

MLC/IR RS232

AUDIO OUT

FIXED VARIABLE

ABC

LRLR

CONTACT CLOSURE

MLS 506MA Rear Panel

MLA-Remote

SIGNAL

IR LINK

IR Link

MLC/IR

ABC

MediaLink Switcher rear panel MLC/IR port

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

.5A MAX

INPUT 1

INPUT 2

VIDEO

R-Y

B-Y

L LRR LR

R-Y

B-Y

INPUT 3

VIDEO

INPUT 4

RH/

R-Y

B-Y

LR LR LR

INPUT 5

INPUT 6

RH/

RGB

RH/

SENDLRRETURN

MLS 506MA Rear Panel

ABCDE ABC

DE ABC ABD

+12VDC

Ground ( )

Receive (Rx)

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

MLS / Power

MLC MLS/Power port

NOTE The switcher provides

1A 1B 2A 2B3A 3B

RS-232

Display/Source Control

Relays IR/RCM

MLC 206 Bottom Panel

power to the controller.

MediaLink Switcher to an MLC 206

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. The 9-pin D and 5-pole captive screw connectors are both for RS-232 control. 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

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

YUV

R-Y

B-Y

AUX/MIXEFFECTS

VIDEO

MONO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

S-VIDEO

COMM 8 ohm 70V

AUDIO OUT

FIXED VARIABLE

LRLR

123456

Tally Out

Extron Switcher Control

4 ohm

MLC/IR RS232

ABC

MLS

/Power

CONTACT CLOSURE

33-644-01 A

07 01

Printed in the

USA

2-11MediaLink Switchers • Installation

Installation, cont’d

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

• For a stand-alone MLS switcher, connect a cable from the host computer

• For an MLS switcher slaved to an MLC controller, connect a cable from

CAUTION

RS-232

function

Description

Contact closure

DB9 Pin Locations

Female

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.

the MLC’s MLS/Power port to the switcher’s MLC/IR connector (not to the 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 MLC-MLS system.

Setting the -6dB Jumpers

In the MLS switchers, when audio signals are converted from an unbalanced input to a balanced output, an additional +6dB gain is applied to the output signal. To remove the +6dB gain from the balanced output or to apply a 6dB attenuation to unbalanced output, jumper headers have been applied to pins inside the switcher. The jumper headers can be removed if you would like to restore the +6dB gain. The -6dB attenuation can be set separately for the left and right audio channels by removing one of the jumper headers.

Input signal

Unbalanced Unbalanced -6dB 0dB

Unbalanced Balanced 0dB +6dB

Balanced Unbalanced -6dB 0dB

Balanced Balanced 0dB +6dB

CAUTION

Follow these steps to set the -6dB jumpers in any MediaLink Switcher.

1. Disconnect the AC power cord from the MLS to remove power from the unit.

Output signal

Changes to settings inside the unit must be performed by authorized service personnel only.

To prevent electric shock, always unplug the MLS switcher from the AC power source before opening the enclosure.

Gain/attenuation

with jumpers without jumpers

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-12

2. Remove the switcher from the rack, or furniture and set it on a level, stable surface.

3. Remove the cover of the switcher (the top half of the enclosure) by removing the screws, then lifting the cover straight up. Set the cover down on a level surface, and save the screws for later use.

CAUTION

Do not touch any switches or other electronic components inside the switcher. Doing so could damage the switcher. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage IC chips even though you cannot feel it. You must be electrically grounded before proceeding with jumper installation or replacement. A grounding wrist strap is recommended.

4. Locate the pairs of pins labeled JMP1 and JMP2 on the circuit board, as shown in the boxed area of the following picture, which shows the pins with the jumpers already set for the -6dB attenuation. The MLS 506MA is shown in the example below, but these jumpers are in the same location in all models.

MLS 506MA Rear Panel (Top View)

MLS 506MA Front Panel (Top View)

5. After you are electrically

6. Replace the top cover on the switcher, and fasten it with the screws that were

7. Rack mount the switcher or mount it into the furniture.

8. Reconnect the AC power cord.

grounded, place a jumper on the pins for the audio channel to which the -6dB attenuation will be applied, or remove a jumper to remove the attenuation.

• JMP1 is for the left audio channel.

• JMP2 is for the right audio channel.

The picture at right shows jumpers set for both left and right channels.

removed in step 3.

JMP1 and JMP2 -6dB Audio Jumpers

2-13MediaLink Switchers • Installation

Installation, cont’d

Application Diagrams

BUFFERED

PC Audio

LOCAL MONITOR

Input

COMPUTER

ID PIN 4

INPUT

ID PIN11

P/2 DA2 MT

Extron P/2 DA2 MT

70V Mono Distribution

Laptop

DVD

VCR

DISPLAY POWER

MLC 206

VOLUME

MediaLink Controller

MAX/

MIN

Extron

Extron MLC 206

RS-232 Control

PC Computer

Stereo Amplified Output

Extron

MLS 506SA

INPUT 4

R H/

H/ HV

INPUT 3

G V

R-Y

INPUT 2

VIDEO

G V

R-Y

INPUT 1

VIDEO

R-Y

B-Y

VIDEO

B-Y

L R

B-Y

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

Extron MLS 306

VCR

70V

8 ohm

4 ohm

MONO AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

VIDEO

COMM

YUV

RS232

RGB

S-VIDEO

R-Y

COMM LINK

CONTACT CLOSURE

INPUT 6

AUDIO OUT

L R

INPUT 5

G V

B-Y

AUX/MIX

R H/

EFFECTS

RETURN

G V

SEND

L R

VID

RS232

Y/C

COMM LINK

CONTACT CLOSURE

AUDIO OUT

L R

RGBHV

OUTPUTS

R INPUT 6 L

INPUT 5

INPUT 4

INPUT 3 LR

INPUT 2

INPUT 1

100-240V 0.2A 50/60 Hz

DVD

RGB Document

Camera

Laptop w/ Audio

Extron

Audio Amplifier

Laptop

DVD

VCR

DISPLAY POWER

MLC 206

VOLUME

MediaLink Controller

X/ A

Extron MLC 206 or

Projector Control

Laptop

w/ Audio

RS-232 Control

Projector

Projector Control

VCR

MediaLink Switchers • Installation2-14

DVD

AUDIO

EXTENDER WM

Wall Plate

Video Camera

RGB Document Camera

INPUT

BUFFERED LOCAL MONITOR OUTPUT

H. SHIFT

ID PIN 4

ID PIN 11

VGA INTERFACE W /ADSP

RGB 109 xi

PC Computer

Projector

MediaLink Switchers

Chapter Three

Operation

Front Panel Features and Basic Operation

Menus, Configuration, and Adjustments

Remote Control of the MLS

Operation

Front Panel Features and Basic Operation

MediaLink switcher can be set up and operated by using:

• The front panel controls.

• A computer, a touch screen panel, or any other device that can send and receive the serial communications through the RS-232 port. Extron’s Simple Instruction Set™ (SIS™) is a set of simple keystroke commands that can be used with any such devices, and Extron’s control software for Windows provides a graphical interface for controlling the switcher from a computer. This gives you full control of switching, volume adjustment, and all setup steps.

• A contact closure device (for input selection only).

• An Extron MediaLink Controller (MLC 206) (for input selection, volume adjustment).

• An infrared remote control, such as the MLA-Remote, in conjunction with the IR Link infrared repeater (for input selection and volume adjustment).

Some settings can be adjusted only through a host computer. For details on serial communications control via the RS-232 port, see chapter four, “Serial Communication”.

21 3 4 5 7

MLS 306 Front Panel

MLS 506 Front Panel

WORK

VCRDVD

123456

TUNER

MAC

DOC

CELL CAMERA

21 3 4 5 7

WORK

VCRDVD

123456

TUNER

MAC

DOC

CELL CAMERA

21 3 4 5 6 7 8

WORK

VCRDVD

123456

TUNER

MAC

DOC

CELL CAMERA

MENU NEXT

VOLUME

ADJUST

VOLUME

ADJUST

MIX

VOLUME

ADJUST

MLS 306

MediaLink Switcher

MLS 506

MediaLink Switcher

CLIP

MLS 506MA Front Panel (same as MLS 506SA)

Power LED — This LED lights when the MLS receives power.

Input selection buttons, LEDs, and button labels — Press and release one of

these buttons to select an input (1–6). The corresponding LED lights to indicate the selected input.

MediaLink Switchers • Operation3-2

MLS 506MA

MediaLink Switcher

Audio and video signals can be switched separately (broken away from each other) via the User Mode screen of the control software. If the signals are switched separately, the LED above the audio input’s button blinks, and the LED above the video input’s button lights steadily.

The labels above the LEDs can be replaced. See appendix B in this manual for details.

LCD— This two-row liquid crystal display provides a way to see the menus

and options for setting up the switcher. During regular operation the LCD displays the following messages:

EXTRON MLS 506

Menu button — Press this button to enter the setup menus and to move from

2 sec.

INPUT

menu to menu. The Menu and Next buttons are also used to enable/disable the executive mode. See the note below.

Next button — When the MLS’s setup menus are active, press this button to

enter a specific submenu or to move between options within a submenu.

Press the Menu and Next buttons simultaneously for three seconds to enable/ disable the executive mode. When executive mode is enabled, adjustments and changes to switcher setup cannot be made from the front panel controls. Only input selection and adjustments to overall volume and mixer levels are allowed. See page 3-7.

Mix knob (MLS 506 MA and MLS 506 SA only) — Turn this knob to adjust

the level of the Aux/Mix audio input. This control determines how much gain or attenuation is applied to the Aux/Mix channel and, therefore, how loud the auxiliary audio sounds. This knob has no function during setup.

There is no physical limit to this knob’s rotation. During mix level adjustment the LCD screen displays the level (shown below), and also indicates when the knob has reached its functional minimum (0) or maximum (100) limit.

Mix Min

Attenuation Gain

Volume/Adjust(ment) knob — While in the regular operating mode, turn this

MIX MIX MIX MIX

Mix 014

Mix 050

Mix 079

knob to adjust the master audio volume for the Audio Out preamp audio outputs (and the amplified output on the MA and SA models). There is no physical limit to this knob’s rotation. During volume adjustment the LCD screen displays the level (shown below), and also indicates when the knob has reached its functional minimum (0) or maximum (100) limit. The minimum setting produces 100% signal attenuation.

Volume

Min

100%

attenuation

VOLUME

ADJUST

Volume

007

VOLUME

ADJUST

Volume

050

VOLUME

ADJUST

Volume

086

VOLUME

ADJUST

When the setup menus are active, turn the Volume/Adjust knob to make adjustments to switcher settings.

Clip LED (MLS 506MA and MLS 506SA only) — This LED flashes when the

audio level for a particular input is too high. If the audio level exceeds the point at which the Clip LED flashes, the audio will be clipped, which results in a distorted output. Adjust the output level of the active source or the input level at the switcher (via the front panel LCD Audio Adjust menu or via the control software) so clipping does not occur.

Mix

Max

Volume

Max

attenuation

3-3MediaLink Switchers • Operation

Operation, cont’d

Menus, Configuration, and Adjustments

Switcher configuration and adjustments can be performed by using the Windowsbased control program (see chapter 4 for details) or by using the front panel controls and the menus that are displayed on the LCD screen. These menus are used primarily when the switcher is first set up.

Moving through menus by using front panel controls

Menu button — Press the Menu button to activate menus and to move to the four

main menus.

Next button — Press the Next button to move between the submenus of a selected

main menu. Pressing the Next button during video configuration causes the current input’s number and video format type to be displayed on the LCD.

Volume/Adjust knob — In configuration mode rotate this knob to scroll through

submenu options and to make selections and adjustments. Settings and adjustments are stored in nonvolatile memory.

Input selection buttons — When a menu or submenu is active, press an input

selection button to select that input for configuration.

Menu overview

The default menus appear on the LCD when no adjustments are actively being made. They cycle between the screen showing the name of the switcher and the screen that shows the active input’s number, as shown below.

Power

FIRMWARE

Ver 1.XX

Default menus immediately after power-on or when audio & video are switched together

EXTRON MLS 506

2 sec.

INPUT

EXTRON MLS 506

Default menus during breakaway (via RS-232) when audio was most recently switched

2 sec.

AUDIO

INPUT #2

From any menu or submenu, after seven seconds of inactivity the MLS will save all adjustment settings and timeout to the default menus.

The main menus are as shown at right. Use the Menu button to scroll between them.

To return to the default screens, let the MLS time-out for 7 seconds, or press the Menu button until Exit Menu appears, then press the Next button.

EXTRON MLS 506

Default menus during breakaway (via RS-232) when video was most recently switched

Power

FIRMWARE

Ver 1.XX

EXTRON MLS 506

2 sec.

VIDEO

CONFIG

AUDIO

ADJUST

AUDIO

SETTINGS

VIDEO

INPUT #5

INPUT

MediaLink Switchers • Operation3-4

or timeout

EXIT

The following flowchart shows the main menus and submenus available for all four switcher models. Items within the dashed lines are not offered on all models.

Power

FIRMWARE

Ver 1.XX

EXTRON

MLS506SA

2 sec.

VIDEO

CONFIG

AUDIO

ADJUST

INPUT

Select the video type

for inputs 1–3.

Default: Vid.

Input #2

<Vid>YUV

VOLUME

ADJUST

Input #2

Vid<YUV>

Set audio output level

per input.

MLS 306/506: -15dB to +09dB

MLS 506MA/506SA: 0 to 100 steps

Level

#2 050

VOLUME

selection/configuration is not available

Video input format

or necessary for the MLS 306.

Select

another

input.

Input #3

<Vid>YUV

3 5

VOLUME

ADJUST

Input #3

Vid<YUV>

Adjust bass

per input (2dB

increments).

-14dB to +14dB

Bass

#2 +00dB

VOLUME

Select

another

input.

Inputs 4–6

are RGB only.

Input #5

RGB Only

Adjust treble

per input (2dB

increments).

-14dB to +14dB

Treble

#2 +00dB

VOLUME

RGB delay time:

0 seconds to 5 seconds in 0.5

sec. intervals.

RGBdelay

0.0 sec

VOLUME

ADJUST

RGBdelay

5.0 sec

NEXT / MENU

MENU NEXT

or timeout

AUDIO

SETTINGS

EXIT

ADJUST

Level

#2 067

Set the overall left / right audio output balance.

NEXT NEXT

Balance

––––––––

VOLUME

ADJUST

Balance

––––––––

ADJUST

Bass

#2 -08dB

Stereo: Audio Out

outputs stereo audio. Mono: the Audio Out

signal is the same

on both left & right.

Output

M<Stero>

VOLUME

ADJUST

Output

<Mono>St

ADJUST

Treble

#2 +06dB

The Effects submenu

is available for the

MLS 506MA and MLS 506SA only.

Default: the Effects

Return is disabled.

Enable: the Effects

Return will be active,

its input will be

to the Audio Out

amplified outputs.

Effects

E<Dsabl>

VOLUME

ADJUST

Effects

<Enabl>D

sent

and

The Speaker Load

submenu is available for the MLS 506SA only.

4ohm: 4 ohm load

on stereo amplified

output.

8ohm: 8 ohm load

on stereo amplified

output.

SpkrLoad <4ohm> 8

VOLUME

ADJUST

SpkrLoad 4 <8ohm>

NEXT / MENU

3-5MediaLink Switchers • Operation

Operation, cont’d

Menu details

Video Config(uration) menu

For the MLS 506, MLS 506MA, and MLS 506SA, the Video Config menu provides a way to set the video format for inputs 1, 2, and 3. Select between Vid (for composite video or S-video input) and YUV (component video) input. By default inputs 4–6 are always RGB computer video.

The RGB delay (Triple-Action Switching delay) (the time when the screen goes black during RGB input switching) for inputs 4, 5, and 6 can be set from this menu for all MLS switchers. The period can be from 0 seconds to 5 seconds long.

Audio Adjust(ment) menu

From this menu you can set each input’s audio output level and bass and treble adjustments.

The Level adjustment range is -15dB to +9dB for the MLS 306 and MLS 506, but it is 0 steps through 100 steps for the MLS 506MA and MLS 506SA. For all models when the minimum limit of level adjustment is reached, the level number (-15dB or

000) is replaced by MIN. When the maximum limit of level adjustment is reached, the level number (+09dB or 100) is replaced by MAX.

Audio Settings menu

Audio balance

The system’s overall (global) left/right audio balance can be set from the Balance submenu. As the indicator on the LCD screen moves toward the left, the right audio channel is attenuated. As the indicator moves to the right, the left audio channel is attenuated. In the center no attenuation is applied to either channel. The balance adjustment is not applied to the MLS506MA’s 70V output.

Mono/stereo output

The Audio Out connectors (Fixed and Variable) can output either mono or stereo audio signals. If Mono is selected from the Output submenu, the audio signal will be the same on both the left and right channels. If Stero is selected, the switcher will send out different (stereo) signals on the left and right channels.

Effects — MLS 506MA and MLS 506SA only

For the MLS 506MA and MLS 506SA, the Effects submenu lets you choose whether to enable the Effects Return connector.

• If the Effects setting is disabled, the Effects Send connector still outputs an audio signal (to a tape deck, for example), but the Effects Return connector will be internally disabled so any audio signal present there will not reach the Audio Out or amplified output connectors.

• If the Effects setting is enabled, any audio signal input via the Effects Return connector will be output via the Audio Out connector and the amplified output (if applicable).

System reset

To reset all the switcher’s settings to the factory defaults, press and hold the Menu and Next buttons while connecting the switcher to the AC power source.

MediaLink Switchers • Operation3-6

Executive mode

Executive mode locks all front panel functions except input selection and volume and mix adjustment; it disables setup menu options. When executive mode is active, all functions and adjustments can still be made through RS-232 control. For details on RS-232 control, see chapter four. To enable or disable executive mode, from the main menu press the Menu and Next buttons simultaneously for three seconds, as shown below.

Press

simultaneously

for 3 sec.

Extron

MLS 506

MENU NEXT

Press

simultaneously

for 3 sec.

MENU NEXT

Remote Control of the MLS

The MediaLink Switcher can be controlled by using its front panel controls; an optional Extron infrared remote control and Extron IR Link; a contact closure device; a MediaLink Controller, or an RS-232 control device or computer.

X-mode

enabled

X-mode

disabled

Extron

MLS 506

2 sec.

Input

3-7MediaLink Switchers • Operation

Operation, cont’d

Troubleshooting

MediaLink Switchers • Operation3-8

MediaLink Switchers

Chapter Four

Serial Communication

RS-232 Programmer’s Guide

Control Software for Windows

Serial Communication

DB9 Pin Locations

Female

The MediaLink switcher can be remotely set up and controlled via a host computer or other device (such as a control system) attached to the rear panel RS-232/ Contact Closure port. Alternatively, the switcher can be controlled by an optional MediaLink Controller (MLC 206) (connected to the MLS’s MLC/IR port) or by an RS-232 device acting through the MLC. The control device (host) can use either Extron’s Simple Instruction Set (SIS) commands or the graphical control program for Windows. For details on use and setup of a system that includes a MediaLink Controller, see the MediaLink Controller User’s Manual.

The switcher uses a protocol of 9600 baud, 1 stop bit, no parity, and no flow control. The rear panel RS-232 9-pin D connector has the following pin assignments:

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

RS-232 Programmer’s Guide

Host-to-MLS communications

SIS commands consist of one or more characters per field. No special characters are required to begin or end a command sequence. When the MLS determines that a command is valid, it executes the command and sends a response to the host device. All responses from the switcher to the host end with a carriage return and a line feed (CR/LF = ), which signals the end of the response character string. A string is one or more characters.

MLS-initiated messages

When a local event such as a front panel selection or adjustment takes place, the MLS responds by sending a message to the host. No response is required from the host. The MLS-initiated messages are listed here (underlined).

(c)Copyright 2001, Extron Electronics, MediaLink Switcher MLS506SA, Vx.xx The MLS sends the copyright message when it first powers on. Vx.xx is the firmware version number. The MLS 506SA is used in this example.

C hn The MLS sends this response when an input is switched.

Error responses

When the MLS receives a valid SIS command, it executes the command and sends a response to the host device. If the MLS is unable to execute the command because the command is invalid or it contains invalid parameters, it returns an error response to the host.

The error response codes and their descriptions are as follows: E01 – Invalid input channel number (the number is too large)

E10 – Invalid command E13 – Invalid value (the number is out of range/too large) E14 – Invalid for this configuration.

(where X1 is the input number)

MediaLink Switchers • Serial Communication4-2

Using the command/response tables

The command/response tables on the next page list valid command ASCII codes, the MLS’s responses to the host, and a description of the command’s function or the results of executing the command. Upper and lower case characters may be used interchangeably in the command field.

Symbol definitions

= CR/LF (carriage return/line feed) (hex 0D 0A)

• = Space = Escape key

Esc

= Specific input number (0 – 7 maximum)

0 = no connection 1 = input 1 & Aux/Mix, 2 = input 2 & Aux/Mix,..., 6 = input 6 & Aux/Mix, 7 = Aux/Mix only

= Maximum number of input channels (1 – 6 max.)

= Video type (can be set for inputs 1 – 3 of the

MLS 506 series only) 0 = YUV (component video) 1 = Vid (composite video, S-video)

= Audio gain

(0 to 9 for MLS 306/MLS 506 only; 0dB through +9dB in 1dB steps) (0 to 100 steps of gain/attenuation for MLS 506MA/ MLS 506SA only)

= Audio attenuation (0 to 15 for MLS 306/MLS 506 only;

0dB through -15dB in 1dB steps)

= Balance (0 to 40 steps)

0 = attenuate the left audio channel 100% (mute left)

...

20 = 0dB attenuation for both channels ... 40 = attenuate the right channel 100% (mute the right)

= On/off status

0 = off/disable 1 = on/enable

ASCII to HEX Conversion Table

ASCII to Hex conversion table

The ASCII to HEX conversion table at left is for use with the

•

= Input to be adjusted (1 – 7)

= Adjustment range (0 – 14) (-14dB – +14dB in 2dB

= Volume adjustment range (0% – 100%)

X10

= Switcher firmware version (listed to

X11

command/response tables.

1 = input 1 2 = input 2 3 = input 3 ... 6 = input 6 7 = Aux/Mix audio input

(MLS 506 MA, MLS 506 SA only)

steps) 0 = -14dB 1 = -12dB 2 = -10dB 3 = -8dB 4 = -6dB 5 = -4dB 6 = -2dB 7 = 0dB 8 = 2dB 9 = 4dB 10 = 6dB 11 = 8dB 12 = 10dB 13 = 12dB 14 = 14dB

two decimal places e.g.: x.xx)

Command/response table for SIS commands

Command ASCII Command Response Additional description

Input selection

Select an input (audio and video).

Example: 6! Chn6 Example: select input 6. Select an audio input. Select a video input.

(host to switcher) (switcher to host)

! Chn X1 Select input X1 (audio and video).

$ Aud X1 Select input X1 audio only.

& Vid X1 Select input X1 video only.

4-3MediaLink Switchers • Serial Communication

Serial Communication, cont’d

Command/response table for SIS commands (continued)

Command ASCII Command Response Additional description

(host to switcher) (switcher to host)

Video configuration (MLS 506 series switchers only, for inputs 1 – 3)

Set the video signal type.

Example: 1*0\ Typ0=YUV Example: set input 1 to

View the video signal type.

Example: 3\ Typ1=Vid Example: show input 3 video type.

X2*X3

\ Typ X3 = ____ Set the input signal type for

input X2. (Type = Vid or YUV)

component video.

\ Typ X3 = ____ Show the video signal type.

Audio gain/attenuation (per input) — MLS 306, MLS 506

Set a specific input’s audio gain.

X8*X4

GIn

Example: 5*9G InX8 Aud=+09 Example: set input 5’s gain to +9dB.

Set a specific input’s audio attenuation.X8*X5 g InX8 Aud=X5 Set an input’s attenuation (in dB).

Example: 12g InX8 Aud=-11 Example: set attenuation to -11dB. Increment a specific input’s gain. Decrement a specific input’s gain.

View a specific input’s audio gain level.

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○

Set current input’s audio gain.

*+G InX8 Aud=X4 Increase an input’s gain by 1dB.

*-G InX8 Aud=X4 Decrease an input’s gain by 1dB.

*G InX8 Aud=X4 Show an input’s audio level.

GIn Set current input’s audio attenuation.X5 g InX8 Aud=X5 Set attenuation (in dB). Increment current input’s gain. +G InX8 Aud=X4 Increase the gain by 1dB. Decrement current input’s gain. -G InX8 Aud=X4 Decrease the gain by 1dB. View current input’s audio gain level. G InX8 Aud=X4 Show the audio level.

Aud=X4 Set a single input’s gain (in dB).

Aud=X4 Set the current input’s gain (in dB).

Audio gain/attenuation (per input) — MLS 506MA, MLS 506SA

Set a specific input’s audio gain/attenuation.

X8*X4

GIn

Example: 4*53G InX8 Aud=053 Example: set input 4’s gain to step 53. Increment a specific input’s gain. Decrement a specific input’s gain.

View a specific input’s audio gain level.

Set current input’s audio gain.

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○

*+G InX8 Aud=X4 Increase an input’s gain by 1 step.

*-G InX8 Aud=X4 Decrease an input’s gain by 1 step.

*G InX8 Aud=X4 Show an input’s audio level.

GIn

Increment current input’s gain. +G InX8 Aud=X4 Increase the gain by 1 step. Decrement current input’s gain. -G InX8 Aud=X4 Decrease the gain by 1 step. View current input’s audio gain level. G InX8 Aud=X4 Show the audio level.

Aud=X4 Set a single input’s gain/

attenuation (in steps).

Aud=X4 Set the current input’s gain/

attenuation (in steps).

Audio treble adjustment (per input)

Set a specific input’s treble level.

X2*X9

>In

Example: 4*6> InX2 Trb=-02 Example: set input 4’s treble to -2dB. Increment an input’s treble level. Decrement an input’s treble level. View a specific input’s treble level.X2* > InX2 Trb=X9 Show input X9’s treble level.

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○

Set the current input’s treble level.

*+ > InX2 Trb=X9 Increase input X9’s treble level.

*– > InX2 Trb=X9 Decrease input X9’s treble level.

>In

Increment current input’s treble level. + > InX2 Trb=X9 Increase the current input’s treble. Decrement the current input’s treble. – > InX2 Trb=X9 Decrease the current input’s treble. View the current input’s treble level. > InX2 Trb=X9 Show the current input’s treble level.

Trb=X9 Set a specific input’s treble level.

Trb=X9 Set the currently selected

input’s treble level.

MediaLink Switchers • Serial Communication4-4

Command/response table for SIS commands (continued)

Command ASCII Command Response Additional description

(host to switcher) (switcher to host)

Audio bass adjustment (per input)

Set a specific input’s bass level.

X2*X9

<In

Example: 2*10< InX2 Bas=+06 Example: set input 2’s bass to +6dB. Increment an input’s bass level. Decrement an input’s bass level. View a specific input’s bass level.

○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○○

Set the current input’s bass level.

*+ < InX2 Bas=X9 Increase input X9’s bass level.

*– < InX2 Bas=X9 Decrease input X9’s bass level.

* < InX2 Bas=X9 Show input X9’s bass level.

<In

Increment the current input’s bass. + < InX2 Bas=X9 Increase the current input’s bass. Decrement the current input’s bass. – < InX2 Bas=X9 Decrease the current input’s bass. View the current input’s bass level. < InX2 Bas=X9 Show the current input’s bass level.

Bas=X9 Set a specific input’s bass level.

Bas=X9 Set the currently selected

input’s bass level.

Audio mute (overall)

Mute on (fixed & variable audio outputs) 1Z Amt1 Mute all audio outputs. Mute off (fixed & variable audio outputs) 0Z Amt0 Unmute all audio outputs. View the audio mute status. Z Amt X7 Show the status of audio mute.

Volume adjustment (overall)

Set the overall output volume.

X10

V Vol

Example: 27V Vol013 Example: set volume to 13. Increment the volume. +V Vol Decrement the volume. -V Vol View the volume level. V Vol

X10

Specify the volume for the

audio output.

X10

Increase audio output.

X10

Decrease audio output.

X10

Show the output volume.

Executive mode

Disable executive mode. 0X Exe0 Adjustments & selections can

be made from the front panel.

Enable (lock adjustments). 1X Exe1 Lock front panel adjustments;

adjust via RS-232 only. Only input selection and volume adjustment are available via the front panel.

View the executive mode status. X Exe X7 Show executive mode status.

Example: X Exe0

Firmware version, part number & information requests

Query firmware version number. Q Ver

Request the part number. N N60-386-0X Show the MLS’s part #. Request general info. I (see below) Show the MLS’s status.

X11

Show the switcher’s firmware

version.

X1 X1 X7

Video input # X1

is selected/active.

Vid • Aud • Clp

Audio input

# X1 is

selected/active.

Audio clipping status.

Zap (reset to default settings)

Zap all MLS settings/memories.

Zap the audio settings. zA ZapA Reset the audio settings and

Esc

zXXX ZapXXX Reset everything (all settings

and adjustments) to the factory default.

adjustments to the factory default.

4-5MediaLink Switchers • Serial Communication

Serial Communication, cont’d

The syntax for setting a special function is __ * X? # where __ is the function number and X? is the value. To view a function’s setting, use __#, where __ is the function number. In the following table the values of the X? variable are different for each command/function. These values are given in the rightmost column.

Command/response table for special function SIS commands

Command ASCII Command Response

(host to switcher) (switcher to host) and additional descriptions

values

Delay times

Set the RGB delay (Triple-Action Switching). 3 * X? # RGBDly* X? 0 = 0.0 seconds (default), 1 = 0.5

seconds, 2 = 1.0 seconds, ... in ½ second steps up to 10 = 5.0 seconds

Example: 3*7# RGBDly*07 Example: 3.5 second RGB delay.

Audio settings

Set the preamp output mode. 18 * X? # PreAmpMod* X? Set the Audio Out (fixed and

If mono is selected, the audio signal will be the same on both the left and right channels. If stereo is selected, the switcher will send out different (stereo) signals on the left and right channels.

Enable/disable the Effects Return. 19 * X? # EffectIn* X? This setting of for the

• If the Effects setting is disabled, the Effects Send connector still outputs an audio signal, but the Effects Return connector will be internally disabled so any audio signal present there will not reach the Audio Out or amplified output connectors.

• If the Effects setting is enabled, any audio signal input via the Effects Return connector will be output via the Audio Out connector and the amplified output (if applicable).

variable) connectors’ output to be either mono or stereo signals. 1 = mono 2 = stereo (default)

MLS 506MA and MLS 506SA only. 0 = disabled (default) 1 = enabled

Set the left-right audio balance. 22 * X? # Balance* X? Set the attenuation applied to

the left and right audio channels. 0 = attenuate the left audio channel 100% (mute the left, scroll bar is at the right) ... 20 = 0dB attenuation for both channels ... 40 = attenuate the right channel 100% (mute the right, scroll bar is at the left)

Select the stereo output speaker load 23 * X? # SpkrLoad*X? Tell the MLS 506SA the total

(MLS 506SA only)

impedance of speakers that are attached to the stereo amplified output. 1 = 4 ohm total load (default) 2 = 8 ohm total load

MediaLink Switchers • Serial Communication4-6

Control Software for Windows

The included Extron MediaLink Control Program for Windows offers another way to control the Switcher via RS-232 connection in addition to the Simple Instruction Set commands. The control program’s graphical interface includes the same functions as those on the switcher’s front panel and some additional features that are only available through the Windows-based software.

The control software is compatible with Windows 95/98, Windows NT, and Windows 2000. Extron’s MediaLink Control Program is included with the MLS, and updates can be downloaded from the Extron Web site (http://www.extron.com).

Installing the software

The control program is contained on a set of 3.5-inch diskettes, and it requires approximately 2 MB (megabytes) of hard disk space.

To install the software on the hard drive:

1. Run SETUP.EXE from the floppy disk.

2. Follow the instructions that appear on the screen.

By default the installation creates a C:\MediaLnk directory, and it places two icons (MediaLnk Control Pgm and MediaLnk Help) into a group or folder named “Extron Electronics”.

Using the control program

Many items found in the MediaLink Control Program are also accessible via front panel controls and the LCD menus described in chapter three. Refer to that chapter for details on features and settings. The MediaLink Help Program provides information on settings and on how to use the control program itself. Some features are only available via this control program. These features are described in the sections of this chapter that correspond to the parts of the control program where the features are found.

1. To run the control program, double-click on the MediaLnk Control Pgm icon in the Extron Electronics group or folder. The Comm menu appears on the screen.

2. Click on the comm port that is connected to the MLS’s RS-232 port.

The Extron MediaLink Control Program windows appear. The port and firmware information are displayed at the bottom of the screen. There are two views available: the User Mode screen, and the Switcher (MLS) Configuration screen.

4-7MediaLink Switchers • Serial Communication

Serial Communication, cont’d

User Mode

The User Mode screen, shown below, includes the most frequently used controls: it emulates the front panel for basic functions (input selection, volume control). See chapter two of this manual for details on basic functions.

operation.

Special features

Audio/video breakaway switching — To switch the audio signal separately from

the video signal, check the Audio checkbox (at the right side of the I/O Switching area) and uncheck Video checkbox, then select an input. The MLS switches to that input’s audio source while leaving the previously selected video source active. Alternatively, you can select the Mixer button to switch to the Mix input’s audio. The picture above shows audio breakaway: video is from input 3 and audio from input 4.

To switch the video signal without changing the audio source, check the Video check box and uncheck the Audio checkbox. Selecting Mute selects input 0 (no input).

Volume Mute — Check this box (in the lower left corner) to activate the audio mute

(Amt) command.

Disable Switcher Front Panel — This feature (shown activated in the picture

above) toggles the executive mode on or off to prevent or enable making configuration (menu-based) changes via the MLS’s front panel.

MediaLink Switchers • Serial Communication4-8

Switcher (MLS) Config

The Switcher (MLS) Config screen, shown below, allows you to make adjustments without having to use the front panel controls.

In this part of the program you can:

• Set per-input audio adjustments (level, bass, treble).

• Set overall volume.

• Set the left-right audio balance.

• Set the mixer volume (MLS 506MA & MLS 506SA only).

• Choose between stereo and mono output for the variable preamp output.

• Tell the MLS 506SA whether a 4 ohm or an 8 ohm total load is connected to the stereo amplified output.

• Set the video format (composite video/S-video, or component video) for inputs 1 through 3 on an MLS 506, MLS 506MA, or MLS 506SA.

• Set the RGB delay period (for Triple-Action Switching).

• Reset the switcher to factory default settings.

Saving and restoring configurations

The MLS can be configured by various means (front panel adjustments, downloading settings, or combinations of those methods), and the configuration settings can be saved to a file for later use.

1. In the MediaLink Control Program, select File, then select Save Configuration

as... .

2. Save the file as (filename).MLK. An unlimited number of configuration files can be saved as long as each file has a unique file name ending in .MLK.

3. To retrieve the configuration from within the MediaLink Control Program,

select File, then select Restore Configuration from... . A set of all the switcher

and audio adjustment settings will be downloaded into the MLS.

4-9MediaLink Switchers • Serial Communication

Serial Communication, cont’d

Using the help program

For information on program features, press the F1 computer key, or click on the

Help menu from within the MediaLink control program, or double-click on the MediaLnk Help icon in the Extron Electronics group or folder.

For explanations of buttons or functions, click on the tabs in the help screen to reach the desired screen. Use a mouse or the Tab and Enter keys to select a button/ function. A description and tips on using the program will appear on screen.

Key to file names

File name Description

________.MLK User-saved MLC/MLC-MLS/MLS configuration file. This

includes adjustments/settings. If the MLS is connected to an MLC 206 MediaLink Controller, the file will also contain whatever driver (if any) was installed in the MLC 206 at the time the file was saved. See the MLC 206 User’s Manual for details.

MediaLink Switchers • Serial Communication4-10

MediaLink Switchers

Appendix A

Specifications, Part Numbers,

and Dimensions

Specifications

Part Numbers and Accessories

Dimensions

Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories

Specifications

Video

Gain ............................................... Unity

Bandwidth .................................... 300 MHz (-3dB), fully loaded

Frequency response ..................... < ± 0.1dB @ 30 MHz

Differential phase error .............. 1.5º, 0 to 10 MHz

Differential gain error ................. 1.5%, 0 to 10 MHz

Crosstalk ....................................... -50dB @ 5 MHz

Video input

Number/signal type

MLS 306 ............................. 3 RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB, or RsGsBs

3 S-video, composite video

MLS 506 Series ................. 3 RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB, or RsGsBs

3 component video, S-video, or composite video

Connectors

MLS 306 ............................. 3 female 15-pin HD (RGB computer video)

3 female 4-pin mini-DIN (S-video) 3 female BNC (composite video)

MLS 506 Series ................. Female BNCs

Minimum/maximum levels ...... Analog ....... 0.0V to 2.0V p-p with no offset

Impedance .................................... 75 ohms

Horizontal frequency .................. 15 kHz to 150 kHz

Vertical frequency ....................... 30 Hz to 150 Hz

Return loss .................................... -45dB @ 5 MHz

Maximum DC offset .................... 1.5V

Video output

Number/signal type

MLS 306 ............................. 2 RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB, or RsGsBs

1 S-video 1 composite video

MLS 506 Series ................. 1 RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB, or RsGsBs

1 component video 1 S-video 1 composite video

Connectors

MLS 306 ............................. 1 female 15-pin HD (RGB computer video output 1)

5 female BNC (RGB output 2) 2 female BNC (S-video) 1 female BNC (composite video)

MLS 506 Series ................. Female BNCs

Minimum/maximum levels ...... Analog ....... 0.0V to 2.0V p-p with no offset

Impedance .................................... 75 ohms

Return loss .................................... -38dB @ 5 MHz

DC offset ....................................... ± 5mV maximum

Switching type ............................. Triple-Action for RGB

Sync

Input/output type ....................... RGBHV, RGBS, RGsB, RsGsBs

Standards ...................................... NTSC 3.58, NTSC 4.43, PAL, SECAM

Input level ..................................... 2V to 5V p-p

MediaLink Switchers • Specifications, Part Numbers, and AccessoriesA-2

Output level.................................. TTL............. 5.0V p-p

Input impedance .......................... 75ohms

Output impedance ...................... 75 ohms

Max input voltage ....................... 5V p-p

Max propagation delay…........... 20nS

Polarity .......................................... Positive or negative (follows input)

Audio

Frequency response ..................... 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±0.05dB

THD + Noise ................................ < 0.3% @ 1 kHz at rated maximum output drive

S/N ................................................ >90dB, balanced, at rated maximum output drive (21dBu)

Crosstalk ....................................... < -80dB @ 1 kHz, fully loaded

Stereo channel separation .......... > 90dB @ 1 kHz

CMRR ............................................ > 75dB @ 20 Hz to 20 kHz

Audio input

Number/signal type

MLS 306, MLS 506 ........... 6 stereo, balanced/unbalanced

MLS 506MA/SA .............. 7 stereo, balanced/unbalanced

Connectors

MLS 306 ............................. Inputs 1 to 3 .............. 3.5 mm captive screw connectors, 5-pole

Inputs 4 to 6 .............. female 3.5 mm mini stereo jacks (unbalanced), or

captive screw connectors, 5-pole

MLS 506 ............................. 6 3.5 mm captive screw connectors

MLS 506MA/SA .............. 7 3.5 mm captive screw connectors

Impedance .................................... > 18 kohms unbalanced/balanced

Maximum level ............................ +19.5dBu (balanced or unbalanced) at stated % THD + N

Input gain adjustment................. MLS 306, MLS 506 .................. -15dB to +9dB, adjustable per input

Input level adjustment ................ MLS 506MA, MLS 506SA ...... 1 to 100 steps, adjustable per input

Audio — effects return (MLS 506MA & MLS 506SA)

Number/signal type ................... 1 stereo, unbalanced

Connectors .................................... 1 3.5 mm captive screw connector, 3 pole

Impedance .................................... > 18 kohms unbalanced, 35 kohms balanced

Maximum level ............................ +19.5dBu, balanced or unbalanced

Audio — effects send (MLS 506MA & MLS 506SA)

Number/signal type ................... 1 stereo, unbalanced

Connectors .................................... 1 3.5 mm captive screw connector, 3 pole

Impedance .................................... 50 ohms, unbalanced

Gain error...................................... ±0.1dB channel to channel

Maximum level (Hi-Z) ................ > +19.5dBu, unbalanced at stated %THD+N

Drive (600 ohm) ........................... > +13dBm, unbalanced at stated %THD+N

Audio output — preamp (all models)

Number/signal type ................... 1 stereo, balanced/unbalanced

Connectors .................................... 1 3.5 mm captive screw connector, 5 pole

Impedance .................................... 50 ohms unbalanced, 100 ohms balanced

Gain (variable output only) ....... Selectable output level

Unbalanced.............................. 0dB (jumper selectable), or –6dB (default)

Balanced................................... +6dB (jumper selectable), or 0dB (default)

A-3MediaLink Switchers • Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories

Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories, cont’d

Gain error...................................... ±0.1dB channel to channel

Maximum level (Hi-Z) ................ > +21dBu, balanced at stated %THD+N

Maximum level (600 ohm) ......... > +15dBm, balanced at stated %THD+N

0dBu = 0.775 volts (RMS).

Audio output — power amp (MLS 506MA & MLS 506SA)

Number/ signal type

MLS 506MA ...................... 1 mono

MLS 506SA ....................... 1 stereo

Connectors… ................................ 4 position screw terminal

Drive (full power out)… ............. At less than 0.5% THD from 20-20kHz:

MLS 506MA (70V, mono) .. 30 watts; 70V distribution

30 watts @ 4 or 8 ohm load

MLS 506MA (100V, mono) 30 watts; 100V distribution

30 watts @ 4 or 8 ohm load

MLS 506SA (stereo) ......... 60 watts; 30 watts per channel @ 4 or 8 ohm load

0dBu = 0.775 volts (RMS).

Control/remote — switcher

Serial control port ........................ 1 RS-232, female 9-pin D connector (shared with contract closure port)

1 3.5 mm captive screw connector, 5 pole (for control via MLC 206; shared

with IR control port)

Baud rate and protocol ............... 9600, 8-bit, 1 stop bit, no parity

Serial control pin configurations 2 = TX, 3 = RX, 5 = GND

Contact closure ............................ 1 female 9-pin D connector (shared with serial control port)

Contact closure pin configuration… pin 1 = input 1, pin 4 = input 2, pin 5 = ground, pin 6 = input 3,

pin 7 = input 4, pin 8 = input 5, pin 9 = input 6

IR control port .............................. 1 3.5 mm captive screw connector, 5 pole (shared with the MLC/IR serial

control port)

Program control ........................... Extron’s control program for Windows®

Extron’s Simple Instruction Set™ – SIS™

General

Power............................................. 100VAC to 240VAC, 50/60 Hz, internal, auto-switchable

MLS 506SA ....................... 50 watts

All other models .............. 25 watts

Temperature/humidity .............. Storage -40° to +158°F (-40° to +70°C) / 10% to 90%, non-condensing

Rack mount................................... Yes, with included brackets

Enclosure type.............................. Metal

Enclosure dimensions

MLS 306 ............................. 1.75” H x 17.5" W x 9.4" D (1U high, full rack width)

MLS 506 Series ................. 3.5” H x 17.5" W x 9.4" D (2U high, full rack width)

Product weight

MLS 306 ............................. 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg)

MLS 506 ............................. 7.0 lbs (3.2 kg)

MediaLink Switchers • Specifications, Part Numbers, and AccessoriesA-4

Operating +32° to +122°F (0° to +50°C) / 10% to 90%, non-condensing

4.4 cm H x 44.4 cm W x 23.9 cm D

(Depth excludes connectors and knobs. Width excludes rack ears.)

8.9 cm H x 44.4 cm W x 23.9 cm D

(Depth excludes connectors and knobs. Width excludes rack ears.)

MLS 506MA ...................... 10.2 lbs (4.6 kg)

MLS 506SA ....................... 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg)

Shipping weight

MLS 306 ............................. 9 lbs (4.1 kg)

MLS 506 ............................. 7 lbs (3.2 kg)

MLS 506MA ...................... 17 lbs (7.7 kg)

MLS 506 SA ...................... 16 lbs (7.3 kg)

Vibration ....................................... ISTA/NSTA 1A in carton (International Safe Transit Association)

Listings .......................................... UL, CUL

Compliances ................................. CE, FCC Class A, VCCI, AS/NZS, ICES

MTBF ............................................. 30,000 hours

Warranty ....................................... 3 years parts and labor

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers and Accessories

Included parts

These items are included in each order for a MediaLink Switcher:

Included parts Part number

MLS 306 60-386-01

MLS 506 60-386-02

MLS 506MA (70V) 60-386-03

MLS 506MA (100V) 60-386-13

MLS 506SA 60-386-04 Self-adhesive rubber feet (4) Rack mounting kit

Rack mounting kit Screws for rack mounting (4) IEC power cord

3.5 mm, 5-pole captive screw connectors

3.5 mm, 3-pole captive screw connectors Tweeker (small screwdriver) 100-014-01 MediaLink Switchers User’s Manual 68-598-01

MediaLink Switchers Quick Start Guide 68-627-01

Windows-based setup software 29-052-01

Accessories

These items can be ordered separately:

(brackets & 8 screws) – 1U

(brackets & 8 screws) – 2U

(for MLS 506/MA/SA) 70-155-01

(for MLS 306) 70-077-03

(all models) 10-319-10

(MLS 506MA/SA)

10-319-13

Miscellaneous accessories Part number

MLC 206 MediaLink Controller (grey, black, white) 60-385-01, -02, -03 9-pin male-to-male adapter (9-pin D GCM) (1) 26-128-01

A-5MediaLink Switchers • Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories

Specifications, Part Numbers, and Accessories, cont’d

MediaLink Switchers • Specifications, Part Numbers, and AccessoriesA-6

MediaLink Switchers

Appendix B

Labeling

Labeling Buttons on the Switcher

Button-Label Generator Software

Label Templates

Labeling

Labeling Buttons on the Switcher

Button-Label Generator Software

The MLS switchers have translucent panels (“windows”) behind which customized labels can be inserted. To remove a panel,

1. Insert the head of a small Phillips screwdriver into the hole in one end of the panel.

2. Gently slide the tab on the edge of the panel out of the recess in the MLS’s faceplate.

Premade templates and blank templates for the MLSs’ label windows are printed in this chapter. However, you can easily create, customize, and print labels by using the Button-Label Generator software or any Brother P-Touch labeler.

The Extron Button-Label Generator program (Buttons.exe) is shipped with the MLS switchers, and it is also available on the Extron Web site. This program is used to create and print labels that can be placed in slot above the input selection buttons on the MLSs.

The program occupies approximately 0.5 MB of disk space. It can be run on a diskette from a floppy drive, but it is more convenient to load and run the program from a hard drive.

Installing the software

This program is installed at the same time and from the same diskettes as the MediaLink control program. See chapter four for details. The Button-Label Generator program can be installed separately via the Download page of the Extron Web site (http://www.extron.com). Follow the on-screen directions if you install the program from the Web site.

By default, the Windows installation creates a C:\BUTTONS directory, and it will place an icon (Button-Label Generator) into a group or folder named “Extron Electronics”.

Using the software to make labels

1. To run the Button-Label Generator program, double-click on the Button-Label

Generator icon (shown at left) in the Extron Electronics group or folder, and click OK when prompted.

2. Under System selection, choose SCP 200. The button label editing area changes to reflect the number and arrangement of buttons on the device. Choosing the SCP 200 will allow you to create two label rows of six buttons each.

3. Using normal Windows controls, you can create and print labels for the front panels of the MLS switchers.

4. Cut the label strips to the appropriate length, and install them in the MLS’s windows.

For information about using the program, you can access a help file by clicking on the Help menu on the main screen and choosing Show Help.

You can also see an example of a completed Button-Label Generator window by clicking on the Help menu on the main screen, choosing Show Help, and clicking on the Load Demo button.

The following picture shows how the Button-Label Generator screen looks when set for the SCP 200.

MediaLink Switchers • LabelingB-2

SCP 200 button label screen

Label Templates

Below are full-sized templates for the labels. Feel free to photocopy them, write button information in each area of the blank templates as desired, cut the strips out, and insert the strips in the label window.

Each input, display, and room control can be labeled with names, alphanumeric characters, or bitmapped pictures. Each button’s label can contain from 1 to 3 lines of text (or none). Each line provides a choice of font sizes and text placement.

Pictures can be selected either from the Device Palette or a user-supplied graphic file. User-supplied graphics should be icon (.ICO) or bitmap (.BMP) files. Files called TEST.BMP and DEMO_BTN.DAT are installed with this program as examples.

DISPLAY

POWER

DISPLAY

POWER

DISPLAY

MUTE

DISPLAY

MUTE

MODE ROOM 1 ROOM 2

234567

123456

B-3MediaLink Switchers • Labeling

Labeling, cont’d

This page is left blank intentionally.

MediaLink Switchers • LabelingB-4

FCC Class A Notice

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

Note: This unit was tested with shielded cables on the peripheral devices. Shielded cables must be used with the unit to ensure compliance.

Extron’s Warranty

Extron Electronics warrants this product against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of three years from the date of purchase. In the event of malfunction during the warranty period attributable directly to faulty workmanship and/or materials, Extron Electronics will, at its option, repair or replace said products or components, to whatever extent it shall deem necessary to restore said product to proper operating condition, provided that it is returned within the warranty period, with proof of purchase and description of malfunction to:

USA, Canada, South America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East: and Central America:

Extron Electronics Beeldschermweg 6C 1230 South Lewis Street 3821 AH Amersfoort Anaheim, CA 92805, USA The Netherlands

Extron Electronics, Europe

Asia: Japan:

Extron Electronics, Japan Extron Electronics, Asia Daisan DMJ Bldg. 6F, 135 Joo Seng Road, #04-01 3-9-1 Kudan Minami PM Industrial Bldg. Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0074 Singapore 368363 Japan

This Limited Warranty does not apply if the fault has been caused by misuse, improper handling care, electrical or mechanical abuse, abnormal operating conditions or non-Extron authorized modification to the product.

If it has been determined that the product is defective, please call Extron and ask for an Applications Engineer at (714) 491-1500 (USA), 31.33.453.4040 (Europe), 65.383.4400 (Asia), or 81.3.3511.7655 (Japan) to receive an RA# (Return Authorization number). This will begin the repair process as quickly as possible.

Units must be returned insured, with shipping charges prepaid. If not insured, you assume the risk of loss or damage during shipment. Returned units must include the serial number and a description of the problem, as well as the name of the person to contact in case there are any questions.

Extron Electronics makes no further warranties either expressed or implied with respect to the product and its quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for any particular use. In no event will Extron Electronics be liable for direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from any defect in this product even if Extron Electronics has been advised of such damage.

Please note that laws vary from state to state and country to country, and that some provisions of this warranty may not apply to you.

Extron Electronics, USA

1230 South Lewis Street Anaheim, CA 92805 USA

www.extron.com

714.491.1500 Fax 714.491.1517

Extron Electronics, Europe

Beeldschermweg 6C 3821 AH Amersfoort The Netherlands +31.33.453.4040 Fax +31.33.453.4050

Extron Electronics, Asia

135 Joo Seng Road, #04-01 PM Industrial Building Singapore 368363 +65.383.4400 Fax +65.383.4664

Extron Electronics, Japan

Daisan DMJ Building 6F 3-9-1 Kudan Minami Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0074 Japan +81.3.3511.7655 Fax +81.3.3511.7656

Extron electronics MLS 306, MLS 506, MLS 506MA, MLS 506SA User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual