Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
USER MANUAL
Model:
VM-4HDMI
1:4 HDMI Distributor
Contents
Contents
1 Introduction 1
2 Getting Started 1
3 Overview 1
3.1 About HDMI 2
3.2 Defining EDID 3
3.3 Recommendations for Best Performance 3
4 Your VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor 3
5 Connecting a VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor 6
5.1 Acquiring EDID 8
5.1.1 Acquiring the EDID from a Selected Output 8
5.1.2 Restoring the Default EDID 8
6 Technical Specifications 9
Figures
Figure 1: VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor 4
Figure 2: Connecting a VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor 7
Tables
Table 1: VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor Features 5
Table 2: Technical Specifications of the VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor 9
i
Introduction
1 Introduction
Welcome to Kramer Electronics (since 1981): a world of unique, creative and
affordable solutions to the infinite range of problems that confront the video,
audio and presentation professional on a daily basis. In recent years, we have
redesigned and upgraded most of our line, making the best even better! Our
500-plus different models now appear in 8 Groups1, which are clearly defined
by function.
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI
Distributor. The VM-4HDMI is ideal for:
@ Home theater, presentation and multimedia applications
@ Rental and staging
The package includes the following items:
@ VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
@ Power cord
@ This user manual2
2 Getting Started
We recommend that you:
@ Unpack the equipment carefully and save the original box and packaging
materials for possible future shipment
@ Review the contents of this user manual
@ Use Kramer high performance high resolution cables3
3 Overview
The Kramer VM-4HDMI is a high quality 1:4 HDMI distributor that accepts
an HDMI input and distributes the signal to four outputs, allowing one or
more of the outputs to be connected to receiving devices, thus making it a
versatile, reliable component in a video system. The VM-4HDMI distributes
signals having resolutions up to UXGA, including all HDTV formats.
1 GROUP 1: Distribution Amplifiers; GROUP 2: Video and Audio Switchers, Matrix Switchers and Controllers; GROUP 3:
Video, Audio, VGA/XGA Processors; GROUP 4: Interfaces and Sync Processors; GROUP 5: Twisted Pair Interfaces;
GROUP 6: Accessories and Rack Adapters; GROUP 7: Scan Converters and Scalers; and GROUP 8: Cables and Connectors
2 Download up-to-date Kramer user manuals from our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
3 The complete list of Kramer cables is on our Web site at http://www.kr amerelectronics.com
1
Overview
In particular, the VM-4HDMI:
@ Supports up to 1.65Gbps bandwidth per graphic channel1
@ Equalizes and reclocks the data
@ Features a default EDID for fast and efficient connection of the unit2
@ Can read and store, in non-volatile memory, the EDID3 block from one of
the outputs, so it can then provide the EDID information to the HDMI
source even if the display device is not connected
@ Includes five HDMI connectors, four output status LEDs, an active status
LED, as well as EDID read and select buttons.
The VM-4HDMI is housed in a 19" 1U rack-mountable enclosure, and is fed
from a 100-264 VAC universal switching power supply.
3.1 About HDMI
High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is an uncompressed all-digital4
audio/video interface, widely supported in the entertainment and home cinema
industry. It delivers the highest high-definition image and sound quality.
In particular, HDMI:
@ Provides a simple5 interface between any audio/video source, such as a
set-top box, DVD player, or A/V receiver and video monitor, such as a
digital flat LCD / plasma television (DTV), over a single lengthy6 cable
@ Supports standard, enhanced, high-definition video, and multi-channel
digital audio7 on a single cable
@ Transmits all ATSC HDTV standards and supports 8-channel digital audio,
with bandwidth to spare to accommodate future enhancements and
requirements
1 Suitable for resolutions up to UXGA at 60Hz, and for all HD resolutions
2 The default EDID feature lets you connect the VM-4HDMI without having to connect a display to the output
3 EDID is Extended Display Identification Data
4 Ensuring an all-digital rendering of video wit hout the losses associated with analog interfaces and their unnecessary digital-
to-analog conversions
5 With video and mu lti-channel au dio comb ined into a single cable, the cost, complexity, and confusion of multiple cables
currently used in A/V systems is reduced
6 HDMI technology has been designed to use standard copper cable construction at up to 15m
7 HDMI supports mu ltiple audio formats, from standard stereo to multi-channel surround-sound. HDMI has the capacity to
support Dolby 5.1 audio and high-resolution audio formats
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KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
@ Benefits consumers by providing superior, uncompressed digital video
quality via a single cable1, and user-friendly connector
@ Is backward-compatible with DVI (Digital Visual Interface)
@ Supports two-way communication between the video source (such as a
DVD player) and the digital television, enabling new functionality such as
automatic configuration and one-button play
HDMI has the capacity to support:
@ Existing high-definition video formats (720p, 1080i, and 1080p/60), as
well as standard definition formats such as NTSC or PAL
3.2 Defining EDID
The Extended Display Identification Data (EDID2) is a data-structure,
provided by a display, to describe its capabilities to a graphics card (that is
connected to the display’s source). The EDID enables the VM-4HDMI to
“know” what kind of monitor is connected to the output. The EDID includes
the manufacturer’s name, the product type, the timing data supported by the
display, the display size, luminance data and (for digital displays only) the
pixel mapping data.
3.3 Recommendations for Best Performance
To achieve the best performance:
@ Connect only good quality connection cables, thus avoiding interference,
deterioration in signal quality due to poor matching, and elevated noise
levels (often associated with low quality cables)
@ Avoid interference from neighboring electrical appliances and position
your VM-4HDMI away from moisture, excessive sunlight and dust
4 Your VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
Figure 1 and Table 1 define the VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor:
1 HDMI provides the quality and functionality of a digital interfa ce while also supporting uncompressed video formats in a
simple, cost-effective manner
2 Defined by a standard published by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA)
3
Your VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
Figure 1: VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
4
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
Table 1: VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor Features
# Feature Function
1 POWER Switch Illuminated switch for turning the unit ON or OFF
2 ACTIVE LED Illuminates when the input is active; blinks when
3 READ Button Press to read the EDID of the selected display
4
SELECT Button Select the desired display for EDID information
EDID
5 OUTPUTS LEDs LEDs light when an output(s) is connected and
6 INPUT HDMI Connector Connects to the HDMI source
7 OUTPUT HDMI Connectors Connect to the HDMI acceptors (from 1 to 4)
8 Power Connector with Fuse AC connector enabling power supply to the unit
the input is not valid
active; LEDs blink when selecting EDID (see
section 5.1)
5
Connecting a VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
5 Connecting a VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
To connect the VM-4HDMI as a 1:4 HDMI distributor, do the following:
1. Connect an HDMI source (for example, a DVD player) to the INPUT
connector.
2. Connect the four OUTPUT connectors1 to up to four HDMI acceptors,
as follows:
& OUTPUT 1 connector to HDMI acceptor 1 (for example, an LCD TV)
& OUTPUT 2 connector to HDMI acceptor 2 (for example, a plasma
display)
& OUTPUT 3 connector to HDMI acceptor 3 (for example, a plasma
display)
& OUTPUT 4 connector to HDMI acceptor 4 (for example, a plasma
display)
3. Connect the power cord to the mains electricity.
4. Turn ON the POWER.
5. Acquire EDID (see section 5.1).
1 As required. Up to 4 outputs can be connected on the VM-4HDMI. Not all outputs need to be connected
6
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting a VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
Figure 2: Connecting a VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
7
Connecting a VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
5.1 Acquiring EDID
The VM-4HDMI initially operates with the default EDID. This means that
you can turn ON the power before connecting any of the acceptors or the
source.
5.1.1 Acquiring the EDID from a Selected Output
You can either work with the default EDID or select an EDID from one of the
connected outputs.
To select an EDID, do the following:
1. Press the SELECT button. The connected OUTPUTS LEDs blink.
2. Press the SELECT button again to cycle from one output to another until
reaching the desired output1.
Blinking will cease.
3. Press the READ button.
4. Turn OFF the power on the VM-4HDMI.
5. Turn ON the power.
The READ button blinks.
6. Press the READ button.
The blinking ceases and the button illuminates. The VM-4HDMI
accesses the EDID of the selected output.
The EDID of the selected output is stored in the non-volatile memory
when the READ button no longer illuminates.
5.1.2 Restoring the Default EDID
To restore the default EDID, do the following:
1. Disconnect each output.
2. Turn OFF the power.
3. Turn ON the Power.
The READ button flashes.
4. Press the READ button.
The READ button illuminates.
The default EDID is stored in the non-volatile memory when the READ
button no longer illuminates.
1 After cycling once through all the outputs, the blinking will resume and you will have to start this procedure again to
choose the desired output
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KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Technical Specifications
6 Technical Specifications
Table 2 includes the technical specifications:
Table 2: Technical Specifications1 of the VM-4HDMI 1:4 HDMI Distributor
INPUT: HDMI Connector
OUTPUTS: 4 HDMI Connectors
BANDWIDTH: Supports up to 1.65Gbps bandwidth per graphic channel
COMPLIANCE WITH
HDMI STANDARD:
CONTROLS: SELECT and READ buttons for selecting and storing EDID information
INDICATOR LEDs: OUTPUTS 1 to 4, and ACTIVE LED
POWER SOURCE: 100-264 VAC, 50/60Hz 16VA
DIMENSIONS: 19-inch (W), 7-inch (D), 1U (H)
WEIGHT: 2.5 kg. (5.5 lbs.) approx.
ACCESSORIES: Power cord
OPTIONS: HDMI/HDMI male-to-male cables
Supports HDMI 1.0 and HDCP
1 Specifications are subject to change without notice
9
LIMITED WARRANTY
Kramer Electronics (hereafter Kramer) warrants this product free from defects in material and workmanship under the
following terms.
HOW LONG IS THE WARRANTY
Labor and parts are warranted for seven years from the date of the first customer purchase.
WHO IS PROTECTED?
Only the first purchase customer may enforce this warranty.
WHAT IS COVERED AND WHAT IS NOT COVERED
Except as below, this warranty covers all defects in material or workmanship in this product. The following are not covered
by the warranty:
1. Any product which is not distributed by Kramer, or which is not purchased from an authorized Kramer dealer. If you are
uncertain as to whether a dealer is authorized, please contact Kramer at one of the ag ents listed in the Web site
www.kramerelectro nics.com.
2. Any product, on which the serial nu mber has been defaced, modified or removed.
3. Damage, deterioration or malfunction resultin g from:
i) Accident, mis use, abuse, neglect, fir e, water, lightning or other acts of nature
ii) Product mo dification, or failure to fo llow instructions supplied with the product
iii) Repair or attempted repair by anyone not authorized by Kramer
iv) Any shipment of the product (claims mu st be presented to the carrier)
v) Remo val or installation of the product
vi) Any other cause, which does not relate to a product defect
vii) Cartons, equipme nt enclosures, cables or accessories used in co njunction with the product
WHAT WE WILL PAY FOR AND WHAT WE WILL NOT PAY FOR
We will pay labor and material expenses for covered items. We will not pay for the following:
1. Removal or installations charges.
2. Costs of initial technical adjust ments (set-up), including adjustment of user controls or programming. These costs are the
responsibility of the Kramer dealer from whom the product was purchased.
3. Shipping charges.
HOW YOU CAN GET WARRANTY SERVICE
1. To obtain service on you product, you must take or ship it prepaid to any authorized Kramer service center.
2. Whenever warranty service is required, the original dated in voice (or a copy) must be presented as proof of warrant y coverage,
and should be included in any shipment of the product. Please also include in any mailing a cont act name, company, address, and
a description of the problem(s).
3. For the name of the nearest Kramer authorized service cent er, consult your authorized dealer.
LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited in duration to
the length of this warranty.
EXCLUSION OF DAMAGES
The liability of Kramer for any effective products is limited to the repair or replacement of the product at our option. Kramer
shall not be liable for:
1. Damage to other property caused by defects in this product, damages based upon inconvenience, lo ss of use of the product, loss
of time, commercial loss; or:
2. Any other damages, whether in cidental, consequent ial or otherwise. Some countries may not allow limitations on how long an
implied warranty last s and/or do not allo w the exclusion or limitation of incident al or consequentia l damage s, so the above
limitations and exclusions may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from place to place.
NOTE: All products returned to Kramer for service must have prior approva l. This may be obtained from your dealer.
This equipment has been tested to determine compliance with the requirements of:
EN-50081: "Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC);
EN-50082: "Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) generic immunity standard.
CFR-47: FCC Rules and Regulations:
CAUTION!
Ï Servicing the machines can only be done by an authorized Kramer technician. Any user who makes changes or modifications to
the unit without the expressed approval of the manufa cturer will void user authority to operate the equipment .
Ï Use the supplied DC power supply to feed power to the machine.
Ï Please use recommended interconnectio n cables to connect the machine to other components.
generic emission standard.
Part 1: Residential, commercial and light industry"
Part 1: Residential, commercial and light industry environment".
Part 15: “Radio frequency devices
Subpart B – Unintentional radiators”
10
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
For the latest information on our products and a list of Kramer
distributors, visit our Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com,
where updates to this user manual may be found.
We welcome your questions, comments and feedback.
Safety Warning:
Disconnect the unit from the power supply before
opening/servicing.
Caution
Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com
E-mail: info@kramerel.com
P/N: 2900-000154 REV 3
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