Kramer VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 User Manual

USER MANUAL
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16
Video Content Overlay Solution
P/N: 2900-300592 Rev 1
www.kramerAV.com
Contents
1 Introduction 1 2 Getting Started 2
2.1 Achieving the Best Performance 2
2.2 Safety Instruc ti o ns 3
2.3 Recycling Kramer Products 3
3 Overview 4
3.1 Defining the Video Content Overlay Solution 6
4 Installing the VCO-8 and VCO-16 in a Rack 9 5 Connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 10
5.1 Connecting the VCO-8 / VCO-16 10
5.2 Connecting the VCO-1 12
6 Looping the VCO-8 and VCO-16 13 7 Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 15
7.1 Install the VCO Setup Application 15
7.2 Setup & About 19
7.3 Setting the Overlays 32
7.4 Scheduling the Overlays 56
8 Defining an IP Address for a Device 66
8.1 Setting a Static IP Address 66
8.2 Operating via the Ethernet 70
9 Technical Specifications 75
9.1 Default Communication Parameters 76
10 Communication Protocol 77
10.1 Understanding Protocol 3000 78
10.2 Kramer Protocol 3000 Syntax 80
10.3 Protocol 3000 Commands 81
Figures
Figure 1: VCO-1 Front and Rear Panels 6 Figure 2: VCO-8 and VCO-16 Front Panels 7 Figure 3: VCO-8 and VCO-16 Rear Panels 8 Figure 4: Connecting the VCO-8 / VCO-16 11 Figure 5: Connecting the VCO-1 12 Figure 6: A Set of 2 Looped VCO-16 Units 14 Figure 7: Installing the VCO Setup App - Warning 16 Figure 8: Installing the VCO Setup App – Setup Application Description 16 Figure 9: Installing the VCO Setup App – Legal info 16 Figure 10: Installing the VCO Setup App – Setting the Destination Folder 17 Figure 11: Installing the VCO Setup App– Installing the Software 17 Figure 12: Installing the VCO Setup App – Installation is Complete 17 Figure 13: Installing the VCO Setup App – The Setup & About Tab 18 Figure 14: Setup & About Tab 19 Figure 15: Setup & About – Selecting the Language 19 Figure 16: Welcome to Device Wizard 20 Figure 17: Device Wizard 21 Figure 18: Device Wizard – Add Device Manually 22
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Contents i
Figure 19: Device Wizard – Selecting a Device 22 Figure 20: Device Wizard – Device Selected 23 Figure 21: Device Wizard – Setting the IP Address 23 Figure 22: Device Wizard – Setting the Lower Number of the IP address. 24 Figure 23: Device Wizard – Setting the Higher parts of the IP Address 25 Figure 24: Device Wizard – Changing the IP Address 25 Figure 25: Device Wizard – Changing the Higher Parts of the IP Address 26 Figure 26: Changing the IP Address Message 26 Figure 27: Device Wizard – Changing the IP Address Higher Parts 27 Figure 28: Device Wizard – Testing the IP Address Change 27 Figure 29: Device Wizard Setting the Recommended Name 28 Figure 30: Device Wizard – Set the Device Name 28 Figure 31: Device Wizard – Device Installed 29 Figure 32: Device Wizard –Device Details 29 Figure 33: Device Wizard – Automatic IP Address Detection 30 Figure 34: Device Wizard – Searching for an IP Address 30 Figure 35: Device Wizard – Device IP Address Detected 31 Figure 36: Device Wizard –The Device Details (following Automatic Scan) 31 Figure 37: Setting the Overlays – Right-Clicking the All Overlays folder 32 Figure 38: Setting the Overlays – the Overlay Tab 33 Figure 39: Setting the Overlays – Create a New Folder 33 Figure 40: Setting the Overlays – New Folder Added 34 Figure 41: Setting the Overlays – the Overlay Tab 34 Figure 42: Setting the Overlays – the Add New Overlay Window 35 Figure 43: Setting the Overlays – Add a New Name and Description 35 Figure 44: Setting the Overlays – The Overlay Added to the Overlay List 36 Figure 45: Setting the Overlays – Template Details 36 Figure 46: Setting the Overlays – Bind Overlay to Machine 37 Figure 47: Setting the Overlays – the Overlay Settings 38 Figure 48: Setting the Overlays – Building Overlay Message 38 Figure 49: Setting the Overlays – Rendering the Overlay 39 Figure 50: Setting the Overlays – View of the Overlay 39 Figure 51: Adding a New/External Template – Launching the Template Wizard 40 Figure 52: Adding a New/External Template – Template Wizard 40 Figure 53: Adding a New/External Template – Available File Operations 41 Figure 54: Adding a New/External Template – Available Folder Operations 41 Figure 55: Adding a New/External Template – Ready-to-Use Template – External Source 42 Figure 56: Adding a New/External Template – Selecting the Folder 42 Figure 57: Adding a New/External Template – Selecting the Template 43 Figure 58: Adding a New/External Template – Available Operations 43 Figure 59: Adding a New/External Template – New Template Added 44 Figure 60: Creating a New Overlay 44 Figure 61: Template Wizard – Setting the Resolution 45 Figure 62: Template Wizard – Adding and Editing Window 45 Figure 63: Template Wizard – Editing the PNG graphic 47 Figure 64: Template Wizard – Resizing Options 48 Figure 65: Template Wizard – Adding Graphics 48 Figure 66: Template Wizard – Create Playback Program 49 Figure 67: Template Wizard – Add Template Description and see Preview 50 Figure 68: New Template Added 51 Figure 69: Setting the Movement and Transparency – the Program Editor 52 Figure 70: Scheduling Tab 57 Figure 71: Scheduling – Adding an Event 58 Figure 72: Scheduling – Adding Overlays to the Event 59
ii VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Contents
Figure 73: Scheduling – Firing an Event 60 Figure 74: Scheduling – Enable Scheduling 61 Figure 75: Setting the IP Address 66 Figure 76: Setting the High Parts of the IP Address 69 Figure 77: DHCP Mode DIP-Switch Setup 70 Figure 78: Local Area Connection Properties Window 72 Figure 79: Internet Protocol Version 4 Properties Window 72 Figure 80: Internet Protocol Version 6 Properties Window 73 Figure 81: Internet Protocol Properties Window 74
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Contents iii

1 Introduction

Welcome to Kramer Electronics! Since 1981, Kramer Electronics has been providing a world of unique, creative, and affordable solutions to the vast range of problems that confront video, audio, presentation, and broadcasting professionals on a daily basis. In recent years, we have redesigned and upgraded most of our line, making the best even better!
Our 1,000-plus different models now appear in 14 groups that are clearly defined by function: GROUP 1: Distribution Amplifiers; GROUP 2: Switchers and Routers; GROUP 3: Control Systems; GROUP 4: Format/Standards Converters; GROUP 5: Range Extenders and Repeaters; GROUP 6: Specialty AV Products; GROUP 7: Scan Converters and Scalers; GROUP 8: Cables and Connectors; GROUP 9: Room Connectivity; GROUP 10: Accessories and Rack Adapters; GROUP 11: Sierra Video Products; GROUP 12: Digital Signage; GROUP 13: Audio; and GROUP 14: Collaboration.
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 Video Content Overlay Solution. This product, which incorporates HDMI™ technology, is ideal for:
Providing visitor information, messages, promotional ads, and emergency
announcements overlaid on your current display network
Hotel lobbies, lounges, guest rooms and conference rooms
Sports bars, nightclubs, special venues
Restaurants, cafes, diners
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Introduction 1
available (where appropriate).

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 cables
Go to www.kramerav.com/downloads/VCOs to check for up-to-date user manuals, application programs, and to check if firmware upgrades are

2.1 Achieving the Best Performance

To achieve the best performance:
Use only good quality connection cables (we recommend Kramer high-
performance, high-resolution cables) to avoid interference, deterioration in signal quality due to poor matching, and elevated noise levels (often associated with low quality cables)
Do not secure the cables in tight bundles or roll the slack into tight coils
Avoid interference from neighbouring electrical appliances that may
adversely influence signal quality
Position your Kramer VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 away from moisture, excessive
sunlight and dust
2 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Getting Started
This equipment is to be used only inside a building. It may only be connected to other equipment that is installed inside a building.
Caution:
There are no operator serviceable parts inside the unit
Warning:
Use only the power cord that is supplied with the unit
shock! Servicing by qualified personnel only
before installing

2.2 Safety Instructions

Warning:
Warning:
Do not open the unit. High voltages can cause electrical
Disconnect the power and unplug the unit from the wall

2.3 Recycling Kramer Products

The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC aims to reduce the amount of WEEE sent for disposal to landfill or incineration by requiring it to be collected and recycled. To comply with the WEEE Directive, Kramer Electronics has made arrangements with the European Advanced Recycling Network (EARN) and will cover any costs of treatment, recycling and recovery of waste Kramer Electronics branded equipment on arrival at the EARN facility. For details of Kramer’s recycling arrangements in your particular country go to our recycling pages at www.kramerav.com/support/recycling/
.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Getting Started 3

3 Overview

Kramer VCO solutions let users display targeted messages across any number of displays in showrooms, bars, lobbies, or conference rooms. VCO-1, VCO-8, and VCO-16 are specialized distribution amplifiers that can distribute independent content layers to 1, 5, 8, or 16 and optionally to any number of displays over standard HDMI in full HD resolution (1080p60 or 1920x1200).
Simply connect the Kramer VCO to each displ ay with a singl e HDMI cable, choose any standard graphics file to be overlaid (such as a reminder that the bar will close at 11:00pm), and that’s all. The VCO solution also enables scheduling specific messages to be overlaid on specific displays at any chosen time and provides a set of overlay templates for initial use.
With centralized control, Kramer VCO solutions let users manage individual video content overlays for each connected display from anywhere in the world.
With Kramer VCO, you get:
Comprehensive Digital Overlay Solution:
Complete, project-tailored solution for all your display needs Support for an unlimited number of overlays and displays Individual or multi-channel control and central i zed operat i on and
management
Precise scheduling of each individual overlay per display Static or animated dynamic color image overlays in full HD Multiple overlay templates for multiple applications Comprehensive error reporting for connected displays and overlays
Flexible Integration and Usability:
Use wi th any customer management system Use your existing display network infrastructure Supports any-sized content overlays with full transparency control
4 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Overview
Built-in looping output for daisy chaining any number of devices (VCO-8
and VCO-16 only)
Cost Effective. User-Friendly Operation and Management:
Easy setup with a non-technical, user-friendly and feature-rich interface Automatically displays engaging static or animated messages and push
notification campaigns, full-HD resolut i on t o multipl e dis plays in multiple zones over live video from cameras, satellite receivers, PCs, or media players — in a single click
Simple, cost-effective operation and management — from a single
display in a bar to hundreds of displays in a hotel
Problem-free installation, instant error reporting for each display and an
international warranty with localized support
VCO-8 and VCO-16 are housed in a 19” 1U rack mountable enclosure with rack “ears”. They use a 100-240 VAC universal switching power supply.
VCO-1 is housed in a compact TOOLS size. Three units can be rack-mounted side by side in a 1U rack space with an optional RK-3T rack adapter tool.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Overview 5
#
Feature
Function
1
IP ADDRESS DIP-
For setting the last number in the machine LAN IPv4 address (see signal is detected
Connect to the PC or other serial controller through computer 4
HDMI IN Connector
Connect to the source
5
Micro USB Port
Used to import graphic images
6
TEST Button
Press for 5 seconds to reset the IP address to its default value.
Test pattern mode is useful for initial setup of the system
7
HDMI OUT Connector
Connect to the display
8
5V DC
+5V DC connector for powering the unit

3.1 Defining the Video Content Overlay Solution

This section defines the VCO-1, VCO-8 and VCO-16.
Figure 1: VCO-1 Front and Rear Panels
Switches
2 ON LED
3 ETHERNET Connector
6 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Overview
Section 8.1.1)
Lights when an input signal is active; flashes slowly when no input
networking
Press briefly to enter the test pattern mode. The input signal is replaced with a test pattern at 1080p. Press briefly again to cycle between available test patterns or return to the input signal.
#
Feature
Function
1
INPUT LED
Lights when an input signal is active; flashes slowly when no input signal is detected
2
LOOP LED
Lights on the looped device when a looped signal is in use
3
OUTPUT STATUS LEDS
Lights when an output signal is active
4
USB CONNECTOR
Used to import graphic images
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Overview 7
Figure 2: VCO-8 and VCO-16 Front Panels
1
INPUT HDMI Connector
Connect to the source
2
LOOP HDMI Connector
Connect to a machine to daisy chain additional displays
3
OUT HDMI Connector
Connect to the displays from 1 to 8 (VCO-8); from 1 to 16 (VCO-16)
4
SETUP DIP-Switches
For setting the Last number in the machine LAN IPv4 address (see Section 8.1.1)
Test pattern mode is useful for initial setup of the system
6
ETHERNET Connector
Connects to the PC or other serial controller through computer networking
7
Power Connector with Fuse
AC connector, enabling power supply to the unit
8 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 – Overview
Figure 3: VCO-8 and VCO-16 Rear Panels
# Feature Function
5 RESET Button Press for 5 seconds to reset the IP address to its default value.
Press briefly to enter the test pattern mode. The input signal is replaced with a test pattern at 1080p. Press briefly again to cycle between available test patterns or return to the input signal.

4 Installing the VCO-8 and VCO-16 in a Rack

This section provides instructions for rack mounting the unit.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Installing the VCO-8 and VCO-16 in a Rack 9
Always switch off the power to each device before connecting it to your
then switch on the power to each device.

5 Connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16

VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16.
After connecting your VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16, connect its power and
You do not have to connect all the outputs, connect only those that are required.

5.1 Connecting the VCO-8 / VCO-16

To connect the VCO-8 / VCO-16, as illustrated in the example in Figure 4:
1. Connect an HDMI source (for example, a media player) to the HDMI INPUT connector. Alternatively, you can connect the DVI connector on the DVD player to the HDMI connector on the VCO-8 / V CO-16 via a DVI-HDMI adapter
2. If required, connect a looped HDMI acceptor (for example, from the HDMI LOOP connector to the INPUT of another VCO device), see Section 6
.
3. Connect the HDMI OUT connectors to HDMI acceptors (for example, LCD displays): 1 to 8 fo r VCO-8, 1 to 16 f or VCO-16.
4. Connect the power cord (not shown in Figure 4
5. Connect the ETHERNET port, see Section 8.2.
10 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16
).
Figure 4: Connecting the VCO-8 / VCO-16
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 11

5.2 Connecting the VCO-1

To connect the VCO-1 as illustrated in the example in Figure 5:
1. Connect an HDMI source (for example, a media player) to the HDMI IN connector. Alternatively, you can connect the DVI connector on the DVD player to the HDMI connector on the VCO-1 via a DVI-HDMI adapter.
2. Connect the HDMI OUT connector to an HDMI acceptor (for example, an LCD display).
3. Connect the 5V DC power adapter to the power socket and connect the adapter to the mains electricity (not shown in Figure 5
4. Connect the ETHERNET port, see Section 8.2.
).
Figure 5: Connecting the VCO-1
12 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16
and can be set with its own specific overlay.

6 Looping the VCO-8 and VCO-16

In the following example, two VCO-16 devices are connected via the LOOP connector to produce a 32 port video overlay. One video input is distributed to 32 outputs with individual content overlay set to each of the 32 outputs.
To connect two looped VCO-16 units with 32 outputs, as shown in the example in
Figure 6
, do the following:
1. On the first VCO-16 unit, connect:
A video source to the HDMI INPUT connect or (for exampl e, a Blu-ray
player)
The OUT HDMI connectors to acceptors (for example, displays)
2. Connect the LOOP HDMI connector of the first unit to the INPUT HDMI Connector of the second unit.
3. On the second VCO-16 unit, connect the OUT HDMI connectors to acceptors (for example, LCD displays)
In the Kramer VCO Setup App, each device in the daisy chain has a separate IP address and each of the 32 outputs is given a unique name
In the same way you can loop an almost unlimited number of devices if HDCP is not in use and up to five devices when HDCP is in use.
When an HDCP source, such as a Blu-ray player or a SAT receiver, is used the number of looped devices may be lower.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Looping the VCO-8 and VCO-16 13
Figure 6: A Set of 2 Looped VCO-16 Units
14 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Looping the VCO-8 and VC O-16

7 Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application

Use the Kramer VCO Setup App to manage and send an overlay to each output.
The VCO Setup App allows you to take a template which can include one or more graphic files and a playback program, modify the program and settings if needed, and load the resulting overlay onto specific device outputs.
The graphic files can be prepared with any graphics program such as Adobe Photoshop, Paint.NET and so on. They can include transparency, animation and for the PSD format also editable fields.
With the playback program you can set the size and position of the overlay on the screen and control its movement across the screen as well as its transparency level. Each overlay playback program can be scheduled to appear at certain times and on certain days. You can also control the frequency and rate a playback appears.
This section describes how to:
Install the application (see Section
Set the application language and add devices (see Section 7.2).
Create an overlay and manage it (see Section 7.3).
Create and use a schedule (see Section 7.4).
7.1).

7.1 Install the VCO Setup Application

To install the VCO Setup App:
1. Download the VCO Setup App from our Website at
www.kramerav.com/downloads/VCOs
2. Open the .exe file. The following message appears:
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 15
Figure 7: Installing the VCO Setup App - Warning
3. Click Run. The following window appears:
Figure 8: Installing the VCO Setup App – Setup Application Description
4. Click Next>.
Figure 9: Installing the VCO Setup App – Legal info
16 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
5. Check for acceptance and click Next>.
Figure 10: Installing the VCO Setup App – Setting the Destination Folder
6. Check the destination folder and change if needed then click Install. The software is installed:
Figure 11: Installing the VCO Setup App– Installing the Software
Figure 12: Installing the VCO Setup App – Installation is Complete
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 17
7. Check Run Kramer VCO Setup and click Finish.
The Kramer VCO Setup App main window appears:
Figure 13: Installing the VCO Setup App – The Setup & About Tab
VCO Setup App includes three tabs:
Setup & About – Select the application language, manage devices and read
the software license agreement and description (see Section
7.2)
Overlays – Create templates and overlays (see Section 7.3)
Scheduling – Schedule the overlays per output (see Section 7.4)
18 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application

7.2 Setup & About

The Setup & About tab lets you set the language of the application, manage the devices and enable control of the system via an external application.

7.2.1 Setting the Application Interface Language

To change the interface language of the application:
1. Click the Setup & About tab. The Setup & About tab appears:
Figure 14: Setup & About Tab
2. Select the application language from the dropdown box.
Figure 15: Setup & About – Selecting the Language
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 19
3. Restart the VCO Setup App. The interface language is changed.

7.2.2 Managing Devices

To add a device to the application and manage it:
1. In the Setup & About tab, click Manage Devices.
The Device Wizard opens. The window on the left shows the list of the devices installed (empty in the example in Figure 16
).
Figure 16: Welcome to Device Wizard
2. Click Add New Device> to add a new device to the list.
20 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
Figure 17: Device Wizard
3. Select a method to add a device:
Manually, by entering the IP address (if you have the IP address of the
device), see Section
Automatically, by scanning for IP addresses up to a certain address,
see Section
7.2.4.
7.2.3
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 21

7.2.3 Add a New Device Manually

To manually add a new device to the list:
1. Check the manual option:
Figure 18: Device Wizard – Add Device Manually
2. Click Next>.
Figure 19: Device Wizard – Selecting a Device
22 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
3. Select a device.
Figure 20: Device Wizard – Device Selected
In this example, VCO-16 is se lected. The window shows a photo and a short description of the selected device.
4. Click Next>. This window lets you set the IP Address.
Figure 21: Device Wizard – Setting the IP Address
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 23
The first 3 (higher) parts are set via the VCO Setup application.
The last part of IP address numbers is set via the DIP-switc hes on the rear panel of the device (see Section 8
).
5. To change the IP address, check the “I want to change the IP address” box and click Next>; otherwise click Next>.
Figure 22: Device Wizard – Setting the Lower Number of the IP address.
6. Type the lower number of the IP address and view the DIP-switch setup that corresponds to the selected number (also see Section 8.1.1
To change the IP address of the device requires that it is initially set to its default value.
7. To change the other parts of the IP address, check the change address box and click Next>. If you do not want to change the other parts of the IP address, keep that box unchecked and click Next>.
24 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
).
8. Follow the instructions outlined in Figure 23:
Figure 23: Device Wizard – Setting the Higher parts of the IP Address
9. Connect the device as instructed and click Next>.
The following window appears:
Figure 24: Device Wizard – Changing the IP Address
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 25
10. Change the number, for example, to 192.168.2.39.
Figure 25: Device Wizard – Changing the Higher Parts of the IP Address
11. Click Next>. The following message appears:
Figure 26: Changing the IP Address Message
26 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
change the IP address to the desired value.
12. Click OK.
You can change the first three parts of the IP Address only if the device is initially set to its default IP address. If the device is not set to its default IP address, you need to first restore the default IP address by pressing the RESET or TEST button for 5 seconds, and then you can
Figure 27: Device Wizard – Changing the IP Address Higher Parts
The application changes the IP address on the machine while it’s connected.
13. Click Test! to test the connection or just click Next>.
Figure 28: Device Wizard – Testing the IP Address Change
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 27
If you do not wish to change the IP address, you can connect to the device to test the connection (optional) or click Next>. The device is ready to use the application.
Figure 29: Device Wizard Setting the Recommended Name
You can set a name for the device (up to 5 characters) or you can set the recommended name (using the last digits of the IP address. In this example, the device name is 039 and each output is numbered in sequence: 03901, 03902, and so on). You can also add a short description to this particular device:
Figure 30: Device Wizard – Set the Device Name
28 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
14. Click Finish. Add Device>.
Figure 31: Device Wizard – Device Installed
15. Select a device to view its details:
Figure 32: Device Wizard –Device Details
In the same way you can add as many devices as required.
The final page of the wizard shows the list of the devices that were installed. You can delete a selected device by clicking below the list. This page shows the properties of the selected device and lets you change each individual output name. You can test the connection to the machine at this point.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 29

7.2.4 Adding a Device Automatically

You can detect a device automatically by searching for a specific IP address on the Network or by scanning a range of IP addresses. To add a device automatically:
1. In the Device Wizard check Detect and add device(s) automatically. Choose either to search for a specific IP address or scan a set range of IP addresses to detect connected devices.
Figure 33: Device Wizard – Automatic IP Address Detection
2. Click Next>. If an IP address range is defined, multiple VCO devices may be found during the scan.
Figure 34: Device Wizard – Searching for an IP Address
30 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
3. Click Stop Scanning once the expected devices are found.
Figure 35: Device Wizard – Device IP Address Dete cte d
4. Click Add the Checked Devices>. The selected device shows its properties and output names.
Figure 36: Device Wizard –The Device Details (following Automatic Scan)
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 31
Select
To
Copy
Copy an overlay
Paste
Paste an overlay
Create folder
Create new folder
Add new overlay
Create an overlay using an existing template
Create a new overlay
Create a new template for an overlay and then Duplicate Overlay
Duplicate an overlay
Edit the overlay template
Edit an existing overlay template
Rename
Rename an overlay or overlay folder
Delete
Delete an overlay or overlay folder
Undo
Undo the last action

7.3 Setting the Overlays

The Overlay tab lets you prepare overlays to use with your VCO devices to se nd to the individual outputs of the device.
You do not need to connect to a device to set the Overlays.
Specific tasks can be performed by right-clicking each file or folder in the Overlays tab and selecting one of the context-sensitive menu options:
Figure 37: Setting the Overlays – Right-Clicking the All Overlays folder
Click + to add an overlay based on an existing overlay template and adjust it to your needs. Click ++ to create a new overlay. The overlay will be added to the My Overlays list.
32 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
immediately create an overlay with this template

7.3.1 Adding an Overlay from an Existing Template

To add an overlay from a template to the My Overlays list:
1. Click the Overlays tab. The Overlay tab appears:
Figure 38: Setting the Overlays – the Overlay Tab
2. Right-click the All Overlays folder.
3. Select Create folder and type its name in the Create a new folder window (Birthday events in this example):
Figure 39: Setting the Overlays – Create a New Folder The new folder is added to the list:
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 33
Figure 40: Setting the Overlays – New Folder Added
You do not need to add the new overlay to a new folder and you can just add an overlay to the main folder.
4. Click + or right-click the Birthday events folder and select Add new
overlay. The following window appears:
Figure 41: Setting the Overlays – the Overlay Tab
5. In the Examples Folder select Advertisement1. The following window shows the name of the overlay template, recommends the optimal screen size for this template, and describes its features:
34 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
Figure 42: Setting the Overlays – the Add New Overlay Window
You can give the overlay a new name and add a description of the overlay:
Figure 43: Setting the Overlays – Add a New Name and Description
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 35
6. Click Create.
Figure 44: Setting the Overlays – The Overlay Added to the Overlay List
After adding the overlay, the overlay properties list shows the Overlay name,
the description (which can be added) and the original template location (click Info to display the template summary and edit it if needed – via the template wizard, see Section 7.3.2
):
Figure 45: Setting the Overlays – Template Details
36 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
7. Bind the machine as follows:
Make sure that that the devices to which you want to add the overlays
are installed (see Section
7.2).
Each overlay in the My Overlays list can be loaded to a specific output
of a specific device. Therefore for each output on a device(s) you need to create a duplicate of the overlay. To do this, select the overlay to duplicate in the My Overlays list and click Duplicate overlay in the right-click menu.
Figure 46: Setting the Overlays – Bi n d Overlay to Machine
For some overlays you may need to enter the Overlay settings, which are specific per overlay, as illustrated in the following example:
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 37
8. Set the text, the background and background variat i on, the colors and other
information.
Figure 47: Setting the Overlays – the Overlay Settings
9. Click Render now to render the image and show it. The following message appears:
Figure 48: Setting the Overlays – Building Overlay Message
38 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
10. Click OK.
Figure 49: Setting the Overlays – Rendering the Overlay
11. Click Show Rendered to view the Overlay:
Figure 50: Setting the Overlays – Vi e w of t he Ove rlay
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 39

7.3.2 Adding a New Overlay Based on an New/External Template

To add a new overlay based on an external template:
1. In the Overlays tab (see Figure 37
Figure 51: Adding a New/External Template – Launching the Template Wizard
2. Click Launch Templates Wizard. The Template Wizard appears:
), click +.
Figure 52: Adding a New/External Template – Template Wizard
40 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
The template wizard lists the available templates within the application. You can right-click a template to edit it rename or delete it. The template that is edited then appears in its new format in the overlay template list (as in Figure 41
)
Figure 53: Adding a New/External Template – Available File Operations
Right-click a template folder to create a new folder, create a new template (see
Section 7.3.3
) and perform other operations.
Figure 54: Adding a New/External Template – Available Folder Operations
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 41
3. Click Get-READY-TO-USE Tem plate to select a template source:
Figure 55: Adding a New/External Template – Ready-to-Use Template – External Source
4. Select From an existing folder (the Web site source is currently
unavailable) and click Next>:
Figure 56: Adding a New/External Template – Selecting the Folder
42 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
5. Click Select folder to choose an external template within that folder:
Figure 57: Adding a New/External Template – Selecting the Template
6. Click OK.
Figure 58: Adding a New/External Template – Availa ble Operations
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 43
7. Click Accept, Add Template> to add the new template.
The new Template and its description are added to the list of available templates. And you can use it, edit it and so on.
Figure 59: Adding a New/External Template – New Template Added
You can get a new external template or close the Wizard.

7.3.3 Creating an Overlay Template

To create an overlay template:
1. In the Overlays tab (see Figure 37 click Add overlay from scratch or click ++.
), right-click the All Overlays folder and
Figure 60: Cre ating a New Overlay
44 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
2. Type the name of the new overlay and click OK. A new overlay is created based on a new template, so you need to create a new template for this overlay – thus, the Template Wizard window appears:
Figure 61: Template Wizard – Setting the Resolution
Selecting the appropriate resolution ensures that the overlay is located correctly on the screen, and that the animation and timing appear as programmed.
Click <Back or Close Wizard to cancel the process.
2. Click Resolution OK, Next>. The following window appears:
Figure 62: Template Wizard – Adding and Editing Window
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 45
2. Click + to add an image, animation and so on. The file format window appears.
Figure 4: Template Wizard – Select a File Format
3. Select a file format, for example, PNG. The capabilities of each format are described for each selection.
Figure 4: Template Wizard – Adding Graphics
46 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
4. Click Next and select a file. The selected PNG appears:
Figure 63: Template Wizard – Editing the PNG graphic
5. If required, use the Rotate and Mirror buttons to rotate and mirror the image, respectively. Click and drag the blue markers around the image to crop the image.
When using a JPG format, you can also set a transparent color and use transparency. When using a PNG format, the transparency implemented in the PNG file itself is supported (created via an external editor program).
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 47
6. Click Next Settings>.
This window lets you resize the image, with respect to the screen size. VCO devices can manage images that are up to 200% of the screen size (horizontally, vertically or both).
Figure 64: Template Wizard – Resizing Options
7. Click JPEG File OK, Add>.
Figure 65: Template Wizard – Adding Graphics
48 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
install the appropriate program.
8. Add another file, refresh the list, edit a file (via an associated external editor) or delete it if needed.
If there is no graphic application associated with a selected graphical format (for example, if you don’t have any editor for the PSD format), the edit button will have no effect. If you want to edit the graphic, you need to
9. Click Graphic Files OK, Next>.
Figure 66: Template Wizard – Create Playback Program
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 49
10. Click Launch the playback program editor. Set the movement and
transparency (see Section 7.3.4
) and then click Next>. Add a description of the template and view, select or edit the template preview.
Figure 67: Template Wizard – Add Template Description and see Preview
50 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
11. Click Template Created. The template is created, and the overlay (with the name assigned in the first step “New Template”) is also automatically created and added to the All Overalys list, in the selected folder.
Figure 68: New Template Added
12. Click Movement & Transparency to program the overlay (see
Section 7.3.4

7.3.4 Movement and Transparency

The Movement & Transparency window lets you create and edit a template or an overlay program.
When used for a template, this window defines the default playback for that
template. Any overlay created from this template will have this program
When used for an overlay, this window lets you edit the playback template
for this specific overlay, resulting in an overlay program that is different from its template program
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 51
).
You can create multiple overlays from a template, each with different settings and playback programs. Once prepared, you can load these overlays to VCO devices manually or via the scheduling feature (see Section 7.4
The following example shows how to edit an overlay program (template program editing is identical).
).
After setting the overlay, click Movement & Transparency (see Figure 49
) to set the movement and the transparency of that overlay. The Program Editor window lets you set the movement of the overlay on the display and the transparency of each image in the movement sequence.
Figure 69: Setting the Movement and Transparency – the Program Editor
The image files that are available for this template appear on the left side. You can select a file from the list to add to the Program Edit window on the right side of the window. The left lower side shows the preview of the selected image (an image is available only after it is rendered via the Render now button, see Figure 68, or after it is loaded to a VCO device).
52 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
Select
To
the overlay image.
Program edit list
Lists the overlay images. Each image on the list incorporates its specific
Position, transparency,
Position: Set the top (vertical) and left (horizontal) position of the overlay
will be displayed only briefly.
To create a smooth movement from one image to another, check Move from
next.
Undo changes
Undo the changes revert to the last saved program.
Don’t save, Close
Exit without saving
Save program
Save the program without exiting (a red star appears for unsaved changes)
Save Program & Exit
Save the program and exit (a red star appears for unsaved changes)
On the right side of the window you can manage the movement and the transparency of the overlay.
Target screen resolution and refresh rate
Display area
animation
Movement
Repeat and delay
Select the resolution and refresh rate for the specific output display to which the overlay will be sent. It is very important to select the appropriate resolution and refresh rate to view a high quality overlay over the screen.
Shows the display area with respect to the selected resolution and a smaller STAT/ANIM area (STAT for static images/ANIM for animation) representing
location and transparency level, as well as its connection to the previous and next image on the list. The sequence of images in the list corresponds to the sequence these images will be presented on the screen (one by one). When the list sequence ends, the whole program will repeat itself cyclically. Using the Movement, Repeat and Delay options allows setting the time each image appears and thus the overall length of the program. You can move an image position inside the list using the Up and Down buttons below, duplicate an image (with all its attributes), remove an image or insert a blank (having the image disappear).
image. When used with the Movement option, defines the position to which the image arrives. Transparency: Set the overall transparency of the image. When used with the Movement option, defines the final transparency level of the image.
For example, when used with the movement option, the image can move across the screen, appearing gradually on the screen (from 100% to 0 transparency). Suppress animation at position: If the overlay is animated (for example, flickering candles), you can disable that animation when the image stays in its final position (only the first frame of the animation is displayed). In this case, use the Delay option to setup the show-time of the image. Otherwise it
the previous image. This will also smoothly change the transparency level. Once checked, set the movement duration (in seconds). You can stop the animation while the image is moving from one point to the
Check the box to have the overlay repeat itself (valid for animated images only). Set the number of times the overlay repeats itself. A delay following a playback allows for a static image (or the last frame of an animated image – upon completion of the set number of repetitions) to additionally appear in its final position.
Restore program from template
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 53
Used for overlays only. The program will be restored from the template used for this overlay.
Changes that you made manually for this particular overlay are lost after restoring from the template.

7.3.5 Overlay Program Example

The following example shows a sequence of four images moving across the screen:
The image appears below the screen and it’s 100% transparent:
The image moves upwards. It appears gradually (60% transparency) and moves smoothly from the previous point (Move from previous image is checked) within 2 seconds:
54 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
and within 5 seconds
The third image is not transparent (0%)
move from the previous to the current position.
The image fades out of the screen.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 55
navigate between duplicate overlays.

7.4 Scheduling the Overl ays

Once an overlay is loaded to an output of a Kramer VCO device, it will keep playing on that input until a different overlay is loaded to that device/output (you can manually play, pause or stop an overlay).
The Scheduling feature lets you load overlays to devices and create playlists which automatically load lists of overlays to one or many VCO devices. This enables the creation of complex scenarios for multiple pre-configured overlays to load to one or many VCO devices according to a predefined schedule.
Playlist: a playlist includes a list of events that will play according to a predefined schedule. You can create multiple playlists. Each playlist is given a specific name.
Event: the event includes a list of overlays that can be bound to different VCO outputs. Each event can have multiple overlays. An Event is part of a playlist and can be scheduled and repeated as needed.
For example, a store playlist that includes two events, one for opening hours and the other when the store is closed (they can be called Day and Night). The VCO device includes eight outputs and all of them show the same images during opening hours and other images for when the store is closed. Each event includes a list of overlays that are scheduled to play at the appropriate time (this can happen at certain days in a week, at certain time each day, and so on).
There is no limit to the number of overlays that are included in an event and to the number of events that can be included in a playlist.
You can schedule an event after configuring the overlays and binding them to the outputs of VCO devices. If you need an overlay to be loaded to several VCO devices (outputs), you need to duplicate these overlays and bind them to other devices (outputs).
We recommend that you logically create folders and subfolders in the My Overlays list for the different overlays and out puts to make it easy to
56 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
To schedule an overlay:
1. Select the Scheduling tab. The Scheduling tab appears.
2. Click + next to My Playlists to add a new playlist name. The Playlist name appears under My Playlists:
Figure 70: Scheduling Tab
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 57
3. Add an event to the playlist:
Figure 71: Scheduling – Adding an Event
You may create as many events as you need. We recommend that you create one event first and then you can duplicate it and make the necessary changes.
58 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
device, and
event, a conflicting message appears.
4. Select an overlay from the My Overlays list and then click + sign below to
load overlays to the event:
Figure 72: Scheduling – Adding Overlays to the Event
Each overlay in an event is bound to a unique output of a VCO when this event is activated, this overlay runs in the specific output. If, for example, two overlays that are bound to the same output appear in an
5. Click Save Event.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 59
6. Click Fire Event Now to make sure that the event list is OK.
Figure 73: Scheduling – Firing an Event
You can also use fire event just to load a number of overlays with one click.
60 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
7. Check Enable scheduling to enter scheduling mode (see Section 7.4.1).
Figure 74: Scheduling – Enable Scheduling
Check Event scheduling to fire all the events in the playlist. When unchecking the box, the event ceases to run and can be fired again by checking the box.
8. Click Save Event (appears with a red star when there are unsaved changes to the event).
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 61
VCO

7.4.1 Scheduling Modes

Each event in the playlist can be set to a different mode. The following table defines the available scheduling modes:
Selecting the days of a week
Applies to all scheduling modes. To set: check the days of the week for the
event to fire. Your event will fire only at the day of the week
that is checked. Uncheck a weekday to prevent firing of an event on that day.
Once, when scheduling mode starts
The event fires once when scheduling mode starts (that is when you check the Enable scheduling execution option).
To set: select Once and uncheck From.
Recommended use: when initializing VCO devices with some default overlays, when the whole system starts. For example, for such an event you may configure overlays based on the “Nothing” template (see Figure 41 configuration will remove any overlay from the
devices.
62 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
); this
the selected date and
Once, at the selected date and time
The event will fire once at time. If this date/time is missed, the event will not fire.
To set: Select Once and check From; select or enter the date and time.
Recommended use: any one-time event that i s scheduled for the future, such as a wedding announcement: “Wanda and Bill’s wedding”.
Once, every day
The event will fire every day at the selected time.
To set : Selec t Once, check From, uncheck the date and enter the time.
Recommended use: any everyday event, such as the opening of a store, or a lunch break, or the start of an evening show, and so on.
In this example, the event will fire each day at 13:49:26.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 63
me,
Recommended use: any repeated event with no
). This will
Repeat, since scheduling is started
The event will fire when scheduling mode is started, and then will repeat with a selected period.
To set: Select Loop, uncheck From, enter the firing rate in Repeat Every.
Recommended use: any repeated event, for which a start time or date are not important. This mode is rarely used, as in most cases such an event can interfere with other, more deterministic events in the system.
In this example, the event will fire every 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Repeat, from a selected date and time
The event will fire at the selected date and ti and then will repeat at a certain rate. If the selected date was missed, the event will start firing at the selected time of the nearest possible day. Every other day, the event will re-synchronize itself with the selected time.
This means that, if the selected start time will arrive before the time of firing according to the repeat rate, then the event will fire at the selected time, and the repetitions will re-start from that time.
To set: Select Loop; check From; select or enter date; enter time; enter period in Repeat Every.
stop time limit. For example, you may interweave this event and another repeated event. Just set these events to different start times (for example, set the first event to 8:00
64 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application
and the other to 8:30). Set both events to the same repeat rate (1 hour, for example result in altering the overlays from one to another every 30 minutes.
the event will never fire.
“Loop until” time.
Repeat, until the selected date and time
Same as Repeat (scheduling starts, at the set date and time and repeats at a set rate), but with a stop date and time.
To set: Set any of the above Repeat modes, than select Loop until and then select or enter date and time.
When the “Loop until” selected date and time is reached, the event will cease to fire. Note that “Loop until” date and time should be later than the “From” date and time (if in use), otherwise
Repeat, until the selected time
Same as Repeat (scheduling starts, at the set date and time and repeats at a set rate), but with a stop time.
To set: Set any of the above Repeat modes, than select Loop until, uncheck date and enter a stop time.
On the next day, it will start firing again (if scheduled), and stop firing at the selected
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Using the Kramer VCO Setup Application 65

8 Defining an IP Address for a Device

When a static IP address is used, the first three numbers of the address are defined via the labeling software and the fourth number is set by the DIP-switches on the rear panel of the machine (see Figure 75 for large systems.
Figure 75: Setting the IP Address
). This is very usef ul when setting labels

8.1 Setting a Static IP Address

The first three IP numbers are set via VCO Setup Application Machine Wizard (see
Section 7.2.3), or via K-Upload (see Section 8.1.2
DIP-switches (see Section 8.1.1). You can also set the DHCP mode (see
Section 8.1.3)
) and the last number is set by the

8.1.1 Using the DIP-Switches

The last IP number is set by the DIP-switches at the rear of the machine (in binary code, 8 bits). Use 8-bit binary code for this number (DIP#1 is LSB, DIP#8 is MSB). Valid numbers are 1 to 254 (default factory setting is 39).
The following are examples of IP address setups of the last number of the IP address (192.168.1.XXX):
66 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Defining an IP Address for a Device
IP Address (192.168.1.XXX)
DIP-Switch Setup (1=On; 0=Off)
41
42
46
47
48
50
39
1 1 1 0 0 1 0 0
40
0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0
1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0
0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0
43
1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0
44
0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0
45
1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0
49
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Defining an IP Address for a Device 67
0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0
1 1 1 1 0 1 0 0
0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0
1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0
0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0
IP Address (192.168.1.XXX)
DIP-Switch Setup (1=On; 0=Off)
53
54
55
51
1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0
52
0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0
1 0 1 0 1 1 0 0
0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0
1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0
56
0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0
57
1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0
58
59
0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0
1 1 0 1 1 1 0 0

8.1.2 Restoring the Default IP Address via K-Upload

The first three parts of the IP address can be changed via the VCO Setup application. In this case, this part of the address can be changed only after the device is set to its default IP address.
To reset the IP Address:
1. Power on the device, while pressing the RESET (or TEST for VCO-1) button
68 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Defining an IP Address for a Device
for 5 seconds.
2. Follow the Machine Wizard instructions to set up a new address (see
Section 7.2.3)
.
Figure 76: Setting the High Parts of the IP Address
The first three numbers of the IP address are set via the Kramer K-Upload. T he factory default is set to: 192.168.1.39 (the last number is set via the DIP-switches).
To set the first three IP address numbers do the following:
1. Start K-Upload.
2. Check that the PC network card is set to the same address pool (for example, to 192.168.1.1) as the known current address of a VCO device.
3. In the main window click Connect. The Connect window appears.
4. Enter the current machine IP number and click Connect.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Defining an IP Address for a Device 69
5. In the Device Properties area change the first three numbers of the IP
address (you do not need to change the fourth number as it is set via the DIP-switches). Note that you might also need to change the Gateway and Mask.
6. Click Save. The first three numbers of the IP address are saved.

8.1.3 The DHCP Mode

Some LAN networks may require the use of DHCP mode for the machine. In the DHCP mode, a DHCP server will assign all IP settings to your machine. To set the machine to the DHCP mode set the DIP-switches on the machine to OFF:
Figure 77: DHCP Mode DIP-Switch Setup
The machine can be identified in the network via its MAC address (which is printed on the label that is attached to the underside of the machine), and by the network name (“KRAMER_xxxxxx”, with xxxxxx representi ng the last 6 hexadecimal digits of the MAC address of this device).
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

8.2 Operating via the Ethernet

You can connect to the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 via Ethernet using either of the following methods:
Directly to the PC using a crossover cable (see Section
Via a network hub, switch, or router, using a straight-through cable (see
8.2.2)
Section
Note: If you want to connect via a router and your IT system is based on IPv6, speak to your IT department for specific installation instructions.
70 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Defining an IP Address for a Device
8.2.1)

8.2.1 Connecting the Ethernet Port Directly to a PC

You can connect the Ethernet port of the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 directly to the Ethernet port on your PC using a crossover cable with RJ-45 connectors.
This type of connection is recommended for identifying the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 with the factory configured default IP address.
After connecting the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 to the Ethernet port, configure your PC as follows:
1. Click Start > Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center.
2. Click Change Adapter Settings.
3. Highlight the network adapter you want to use to connect to the device and click Change settings of this connection. The Local Area Connection Properties window for the selected network adapter appears as shown in Figure 78
.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Defining an IP Address for a Device 71
Figure 78: Local Area Connection Properties Window
4. Highlight either Internet Protocol Version 6 (TCP/IPv6) or Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) depending on the requirements of your IT system.
5. Click Properties. The Internet Protocol Properties window relevant to your IT system appears as shown in Figure 79 or Figure 80
.
Figure 79: Internet Protocol Version 4 Properti es W i ndo w
72 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Defining an IP Address for a Device
Figure 80: Internet Protocol Version 6 Properti es W i ndo w
6. Select Use the following IP Address for static IP addressing and fill in the details as shown in Figure 81
.
For TCP/IPv4 you can use any IP address in the range 192.168.1.1 to
192.168.1.255 (excluding 192.168.1.39) that is provided by your IT department.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Defining an IP Address for a Device 73
Figure 81: Internet Protocol Properties Window
7. Click OK.
8. Click Close.

8.2.2 Connecting the Ethernet Port via a Network Hub or Switch

You can connect the Ethernet port of the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 to the Ethernet port on a network hub or using a straight-through cable with RJ-45 connectors.
74 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Defining an IP Address for a Device
Inputs:
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16: 1 HDMI connector (HDMI, HDCP version 1.4), 1 USB port
Outputs:
VCO-1: 1 HDMI connector (HDMI, HDCP version 1.4)
LOOP HDMI connector
Ports
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16: 1 RJ-45 Ethernet port 10/100BaseT
Bandwidth:
Full HD resolution (1080p60 or 1920x1200)
VCO-8
VCO-16
Power Consumption:
VCO-1: 5V DC, 800mA max.
VCO-16
Operating Temperature:
0° to +40°C (32° to 104°F)
Storage Temperature:
-40° to +70°C (-40° to 158°F)
Humidity:
10% to 90%, RHL non-condensing
Dimensions:
VCO-1: 12cm x 7.1cm x 2.4cm (4.7" x 2.8" x 0.94") W, D, H VCO-8, VCO-16
Shipping Dimensions:
VCO-1: 15.7cm x 12cm x 8.7cm (6.2" x 4.7" x 3.4") W, D, H
W, D, H
Weight:
VCO-1: 0.25kg (0.55lbs) ap pro x.
VCO-16
plastic ties
VCO-1: RK-3T 19” rack mount
Specifications are subject to change without notice. For the most updated specifications, go to our Web site at www.kramerav.com

9 Technical Specifications

VCO-8: 8 HDMI connectors (HDMI, HDCP version 1.4),
1 LOOP HDMI connector VCO-16: 16 HDMI connectors (HDMI, HDCP version 1.4), 1
Controls
Shipping Weight:
Included Accessories:
IP address setup DIP-switches, Reset/Test button, Ethernet (VCO Setup App), output status indication LEDs, input indication LED, loop indication LED (for
VCO-8: 100-240V AC, 32VA max.
: 100-240V AC, 32VA max.
VCO-8, VCO-16: 55cm x 27.6cm x 10.7cm (21.6" x 10.9" x 4.2")
VCO-8: 1.53kg (3.37lbs) approx.
: 1.7kg (3.74lbs) approx.
VCO-1: 0.66kg (1.45lbs) ap pro x. VCO-8: 2.42kg (5.3lbs) approx. VCO-16: 2.6kg (5.7lbs) approx.
VCO-1: Power supply unit (5V DC, 4A) VCO-8, VCO-16: Power cor d, rac k ears , cable bracket, cable
and
: 19" x 7" x 1U (W, D, H) rack mountable
only)
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Technical Specifications 75
IP Address:
192.168.1.39
Subnet mask:
255.255.255.0
Default gateway:
192.168.1.254
TCP Port #:
5000
Reset/Test button
While power is switched on, press and hold the RESET (or TEST)
1=on, 0=off).
Command Format:
ASCII protocol 3000
Example (Stop playback, and remove overlay from the screen for output 1):
#Y 0,150,0,0<CR>

9.1 Default Communication Parameters

Ethernet
Full Factory Reset
button for at least 5 seconds. Set the DIP-switc hes to 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 positions (D IP #1 to DIP #8,
Ethernet (TCP/IP) Command Protocol
76 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Technical Specifications
purposes only and its syntax may vary per device.

10 Communication Protocol

The VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 Video Content Overlay Solution can be operated using the Kramer Protocol 3000 serial commands. The command framing varies according to how you interface with the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16. In the following example, the firmware version number command is entered as follows:
Terminal communication software, such as Hercules:
The framing of the command varies according to the terminal communication software. This command is used for demonstration
K-Touch Builder (Kramer software):
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol 77
K-Config (Kramer configuration software):
All the examples provided in this section are based on using the Kramer K-Config software.
You can enter commands directly using terminal communication software (e.g., Hercules) by connecting a PC to the Ethernet port on the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16. To enter CR press the Enter key (LF is also sent but is ignored by the command parser).
Commands sent from various non-Kramer controllers (e.g., Crestro n) may require special coding for some characters (such as, /X##). For more information, refer to your controller’s documentation.
For more information about:
Using Protocol 3000 commands, see Section
10.1
General syntax used for Protocol 3000 commands, see Section 10.2
Protocol 3000 commands available for the VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16, see
10.3
Section

10.1 Understanding Protocol 3000

Protocol 3000 commands are structured according to the following:
Command – A sequence of ASCII letters (A-Z, a-z and -). A command and
its parameters must be separated by at least one space.
Parameters – A sequence of alphanumeric ASCII characters (0-9, A-Z, a-z
and some special characters for specific commands). Parameters are separated by commas.
Message string – Every command entered as part of a message string
begins with a message starting character and ends with a message closing character.
78 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol
The maximum string length is 64 characters.
A string can contain more than one command. Commands are separated by a pipe (|) character.
Message starting character:
# – For host command/query ~ – For device response
Device address – K-NET Device ID followed by @ (optional, K-NET only)
Query sign? follows some commands to define a query request
Message closing character:
CR – Carriage return for host messages (ASCII 13) CR LF – Carriage return for device messages (ASCII 13) and line-feed
(ASCII 10)
Command chain separator character – Multiple commands can be chained
in the same string. Each command is delimited by a pipe character (|). When chaining commands, enter the message starting character and the message closing character only at the beginning and end of the string.
Spaces between parameters or command terms are ignored. Commands in the string do not execute until the closing character is entered. A separate response is sent for every command in the chain.
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol 79
Start
Address (optional)
Body
Delimiter
#
Device_id@
Message
CR
Start
Body
Delimiter
#
CR
Start
Address
Body
Delimiter
#
Device_id@
CR
Start
Address (optional)
Body
Delimiter
~
Device_id@
Message
CR LF
Start
Address (optional)
Body
Delimiter
~
Device_id@
CR LF

10.2 Kramer Protocol 3000 Syntax

The Kramer Protocol 3000 syntax uses the following delimiters:
CR = Carriage return (ASCII 13 = 0x0D)
LF = Line feed (ASCII 10 = 0x0A)
SP = Space (ASCII 32 = 0x20)
Some commands have short name syntax in addition to long name syntax to enable faster typing. The response is always in long syntax.
The Protocol 3000 syntax is in the following format:
Host Message Format:
Simple Command – Command string with only one command without
addressing:
Command SP Parameter_1,Parameter_2,…
80 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol
Command String – Formal syntax with command concatenation and
addressing:
Command_1 Parameter1_1,Parameter1_2,…| Command_2 Parameter2_1,Parameter2_2,…| Command_3
Parameter3_1,Parameter3_2,…|…
Device Message Format:
Device Long Response – Echoing command:
Command SP [Param1,Param2 …] result
#
Protocol handshak ing (s yst em man dat or y)
BUILD-DATE
Get device build date (system mandatory)
FACTORY
Reset to factory default configuration
HELP
Get command list (system mandatory)
MODEL
Get device model (system mandatory)
NAME
Get machine (DNS) name
NAME-RST
Reset machine (DNS) name to factory default
PROT-VER
Get device protocol versio n (system mandatory)
SN
Get device serial number (system mandatory)
VERSION
Get device firmware version (system mandatory)
RESET
Reset device (system mandatory)
#
Set:
Protocol handshak ing
#CR
~nn@SPOKCR LF
Validates the Protocol 3000 connection and gets the machine number Step-in master products use this command to identify the availability of a device
“#”,0x0D

10.3 Protocol 3000 Commands

This section includes the following commands:
System commands (see Section
10.3.1)
Communication commands (see Section 10.3.2)
Device-specific P3000 commands (see Section 10.3.3)
Device-specific Y commands (see Section 10.3.4)

10.3.1 System Commands

Command Description
10.3.1.1 #
Functions Permission Transparency
Set: Get:
Description Syntax
-
End User Public
- -
Get: - -
Response
Notes
K-Config Example
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol 81
BUILD-DATE
Get: - -
-
Set:
#BUILD-DATE?CR
~nn@BUILD-DATESP
CR LF
time –
hh:mm:ss
“#BUILD-DATE?”,0x0D
FACTORY
Get: - -
-
#FACTORYCR
Get: - -
nn@FACTORYSPOKCR LF
This command deletes all user data from the device. The deletion can take some time. Your device may require powering off and powering on for the changes to take effect.
K-Config Example
“#FACTORY”,0x0D
10.3.1.1 BUILD-DATE
Functions Permission Transparency
Set:
Description Syntax
End User -
Get: get device build date
Response
dateSPtime
Parameters
date – Format: YYYY/MM/DD where YYYY = Year, MM = Month, DD = Day
Format:
K-Config Example
Read the device build date:
where hh = hours, mm = minutes, ss = seconds
10.3.1.1 FACTORY
Functions Permission Transparency
Set:
Description Syntax
Set: Reset device to factory defa ul ts conf i gu rati o n
Response
~
Notes
Reset the device to its factory default configuration:
End User Public
82 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol
-
Get:
MODEL?
End User
Public
Set: - -
#MODEL?CR
@MODELSPmodel_nameCR LF
This command identifies equipment connected to Step-in master products and notifies of identity changes
“#MODEL?”,0x0D
NAME
Get:
NAME?
#NAMESPmachine_nameCR
Get:
#NAME?CR
nn@NAME?SPmachine_nameCR LF
machine or a network in use (with DNS feature on).
Get device name:
“#NAME?”,0x0D
10.3.1.2 MODEL
Functions Permission Transparency
Set:
Description Syntax
- -
Get: Get device model
Response
~nn
Parameters
model_name – String of up to 19 printable ASCII chars
Notes
to the connected equipment. The Matrix saves this data in memory to answer REMOTE-INFO requests
K-Config Example
Get device model:
10.3.1.3 NAME
Functions Permission Transparency
Set:
Description Syntax
Set:
Response
Set: ~nn @NAMESPmachine_nameCR LF Get: ~
Parameters
machine_name – String of up to 15 alpha-numeric chars (can include hyphen, not at the beginning or
end) the device will automatically add 6 last Hex digits of its MAC address to this name.
Notes
The machine name is not the same as the model name. The machine name is used to identify a specific
Set machine (DNS) name Get machine (DNS) name
Administrator Public End User Public
K-Config Example
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol 83
-
Get:
NAME-RST
-
-
Set:
Reset machine (DNS) name to factory default
#NAME-RSTCR
Get:
nn@NAME-RSTSPOKCR LF
Factory default of machine (DNS) name is “KRAMER_” + 4 last digits of device serial number.
Reset device name:
“#NAME-RST”,0x0D
-
Get:
PROT-VER?
End User
Public
Set: - -
Get:
Get protocol version
#PROT-VER?CR
@PROT-VERSP3000:versionCR LF
Get the protocol version:
“#PROT-VER?”,0x0D
10.3.1.4 NAME-RST
Functions Permission Transparency
Set:
Description Syntax
Response
~
Notes
K-Config Example
10.3.1.5 PROT-VER
Functions Permission Transparency
Set:
Description Syntax
Administrator Public
- -
Response
~nn
Parameters
Version – Format: XX.XX whe re X is a decim al di git
K-Config Example
84 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol
Get:
SN?
End User
Public
Get:
Get device serial number
#SN?CR
nn@SNSPserial_numberCR LF
serial_number – 14 decimal digits, factory assigned
Get device serial number:
“#SN?”,0x0D
Get:
VERSION?
End User
Public
Get:
Get version number
#VERSION?CR
nn@VERSIONSPfirmware_versionCR LF
firmware_version – Format: XX.XX.XXXX where the digits group are: major.minor.build version
K-Config Example
Get the firmware version number:
“#VERSION?”,0x0D
RESET
#RESETCR
Get: - -
nn@RESETSPOKCR LF
K-Config Example
Reset the device:
“#RESET?”,0x0D
10.3.1.6 SN
Functions Permission Transparency
Set:
Description Syntax
Set: - -
Response
~
Parameters
K-Config Example
-
- -
10.3.1.7 VERSION
Functions Permission Transparency
Set:
Description Syntax
Set: - -
Response
~
Parameters
-
- -
10.3.1.8 RESET
Functions Permission Transparency
Set: Get:
Description Syntax
Set: Reset device
Response
~
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol 85
-
Administrator Public
- -
ETH-PORT
Get Ethernet port protocol
NET-MAC
Get MAC address
NET-IP
Set/get IP address
NET-GATE
NET-MASK
Set/get subnet mask
Functions
Permission
Transparency
Set:
ETH-PORT
Administrator
Public
Get:
ETH-PORT?
End User
Public
Set:
#ETH-PORTSPportType, ETHPortCR
Get:
#ETH- PORT?SPportTypeCR
~nn@ETH-PORTSPportType, ETHPortCR LF
“#ETH-PORT TCP,5000”,0x0D
Functions
Permission
Transparency
Set: - - - Get:
NET-MAC?
End User
Communication
Set:
Get:
#NET-MAC?CR
nn@NET-MACSPmac_addressCR LF
mac_address – Unique MAC address. Format: XX-XX-XX-XX-XX-XX where X is hex digit.
“#NET-MAC? XX-XX-XX-XX-XX-XX”,0x0D

10.3.2 Communication Commands

Command Description
Set/get gateway IP
10.3.2.1 ETH-PORT
Description Syntax
Set Ethernet port protocol Get Ethernet port protocol
Response
Parameters
portType – TCP/UDP ETHPort - TCP/UD P port number
K-Config Example
Set the Ethernet port type and number address:
10.3.2.2 NET-MAC
Description Syntax
Get MAC address
Response
~
Parameters
K-Config Example
Get the MAC address:
86 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol
NET-IP
Get:
NET-IP?
End User
Communication
Set:
#NET-IPSPP1CR
Get:
Get device IP address
#NET-IP?CR
@NET-IPSPip_addressSPOK
nn@NET-IPSPip_addressCR LF
P1 – IP address, in the following format: xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx (since the last xxx number is set by the
DIP-switches, it is ignored in this command)
For proper settings consult your network administrator.
“#NET-IP 192.168.001.039”,0x0D
Functions
Permission
Transparency
Set:
NET-GATE
Administrator
-
Get:
NET-GATE?
End User
Communication
Description
Syntax
Set:
#NET-GATESPP1CR
Get:
#NET-GATE?CR
Response
@NET-GATESPip_address CR LF
P1 – gateway IP address, in the following format:
security problems. For prope r s etti ngs cons ul t you r net wo rk administrator
Set the gateway IP address to 192.168.0.1:
“#NET-GATE 192.168.000.001”,0x0D
10.3.2.3 NET IP
Functions Permission Transparency
Set:
Description Syntax
Set device IP address
Response
Set: ~nn Get: ~
Parameters
Notes
K-Config Example
Set the IP address to 192.168.1.39:
CRLF
Administrator -
10.3.2.4 NET-GATE
Set Gateway IP Get Gateway IP
Set: ~nn @NET-GATESP P1SPOKCR LF Get: ~nn
Parameters
Notes
A network gateway connects the device via another network and maybe over the Internet. Be careful of
K-Config Example
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol 87
NET-MASK
Get:
NET-MASK?
End User
Communication
Set:
Set device subnet mask
#NET-MASKSPnet_maskCR
Get:
Get device subnet mask
#NET-MASK?CR
@NET-MASKSPP1SPOK
nn@NET-MASKSPnet_maskCR LF
P1 – net-mask format: xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx
For proper settings consult your network administrator.
Set the subnet mask to 255.255.0.0:
“#NET-MASK 255.255.000.000”,0x0D
MON-TYPE
Get EDID information from the display
Set: -
-
MON_TYPE?
Set:
#MON_TYPE?SPoutCR
nn@MON_TYPESPEDID_STRINGCR LF
out – output number (counts from 0). For VCO-1 always equals to 0; for VCO-8 (0 to 7) and VCO-16 (0 to
If no monitor is connected, EDID_STRING is empty.
Read EDID of the Display connected to output 3
“#MON_TYPE? 2”,0x0D
10.3.2.5 NET-MASK
Functions Permission Transparency
Set:
Description Syntax
Response
Set: ~nn Get: ~
Parameters
Response triggers
The subnet mask limits the Ethernet connection within the local network.
K-Config Example
CR LF

10.3.3 Device Specific Command

Command Description
10.3.3.1 MON-TYPE
Functions Permission Transparency
Administrator -
Get:
Description Syntax
Get: Get EDID information from the display
Response
~
Parameters
15).
EDID_STRING – the EDID information read from the monitor currently connected to the required output.
K-Config Example
88 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol
End User Public
Description
Function #
Parameter
Value
Notes
compliant
HDMI input is not HDCP
HDMI Input 0 only.
Playback control
150
VCO-1: OUTPUT[1]
0
Stop playback, and remo ve overlay from the screen
1
Start (or restart) playback playback program
2
Resume playback from the
3
Pause playback, showing

10.3.4 Device-Specific “Y” Commands

Syntax for a “set” command (write value to the device): #Y 0,function,value,parameter<CR>
Device response: #Y 0,function,value,parameter<CR>
Syntax for a “get” command (read value from the device): #Y 1,function,parameter<CR>
Device response: #Y 1,function,value,parameter<CR>
Parameter means input or output number of the device. All devices have only 1 input (that means in the INPUT case the Parameter always equals to 0). Depending on the device model (which may have different number of outputs) the allowed range of OUTPUT parameter is specified in brackets [ ]. For instance, for [8] the allowed parameter is 0 to 7 (eight possible outputs, counted from 0).
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol 89
HDMI input HDCP capability
Read Playback Position (Read only)
105
1
151 VCO-1: OUTPUT[1]
INPUT[1]
VCO-8: OUTPUT[8] VCO-16:
OUTPUT[16]
VCO-8: OUTPUT[8] VCO-16: OUTPUT[16]
0
[0:32765] Current playback program
HDMI input is HDCP
compliant Additional parameter defines
from the start of the
last paused position, or from the start
overlay statically, at its last shown frame (freeze)
position (at the moment the command was received)
Description
Function #
Parameter
Value
Notes
Limit
152
VCO-1: OUTPUT[1]
OUTPUT[16]
[0:32765]
Playback program will start
Limit
153
VCO-1: OUTPUT[1]
OUTPUT[16]
[0:32765]
Playback program will end Input
(Read only)
Test Signal
334
VCO-1: OUTPUT[1]
OUTPUT[16]
0
No test signal; normal mode
1
Test signal is on
Display
340
VCO-1: OUTPUT[1]
OUTPUT[16]
0
No display connected to output
1
Common
341
VCO-1: OUTPUT[1]
[0:15]
Bitwise status information.
4=display is connected)
0
480i/60 INP_RSL[4] - background
29
1024x768/60
1
576i/50
30
1024x768/70
3
720p/59
32
1024x768/85
4
720p/60
33
1152x864/75
5
1080i/50
34
1280x768/60 reduced blanking
6
1080i/59
35
1280x768/60
7
1080i/60
36
1280x768/75
8
1080p/23
37
1280x800/60
9
1080p/24
38
1280x960/60
10
1080p/25
39
1280x960/85
11
1080p/29
40
1280x1024/60
12
1080p/30
41
1280x1024/75
13
1080p/50
42
1360x768/60
14
1080p/59
43
1366x768/60
15
1080p/60
44
1400x1050/60 reduced blanking
playback, lower bound
playback, upper bound
resolution
STATUS (Read only)
Connected STATUS (Read only)
STATUS (Read only)
301 INPUT[1] [0:56] See Section 10.3.4.1
VCO-8: OUTPUT[8] VCO-16:
VCO-8: OUTPUT[8] VCO-16:
VCO-8: OUTPUT[8] VCO-16:
VCO-8: OUTPUT[8] VCO-16:
VCO-8: OUTPUT[8] VCO-16: OUTPUT[16]
10.3.4.1 Input Resolution (Function 301)
Value Notes Value Notes
from this position (default=0)
with this position (default=32765), and cycle back to start
Display is connected
Use AND mask to extract data: mask=1: background input signal status (0=signal is present; 1=none) mask=2: output test signal status (0=test is present; 2=none, normal mode) mask=4: display connected status (0=no display;
2 720p/50 31 1024x768/75
90 VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol
Value
Notes
Value
Notes
16
1080sf/23
45
1400x1050/60
17
1080sf/24
46
1400x1050/75
18
1080sf/25
47
1440x900/60 reduced blanking
20
1080sf/30
49
1440x900/75
21
640x480/60
50
1440x900/85
22
640x480/72
51
1600x1200/60
23
640x480/75
52
1680x1050/60 red uce d bl ank i ng
24
640x480/85
53
1680x1050/60
25
800x600/60
54
1920x1200/60 reduced blanking
26
800x600/72
55
UNIDENTIFIED INPUT SIGNAL
27
800x600/75
56
NO INPUT SIGNAL
28
800x600/85
19 1080sf/29 48 1440x900/60 reduced blanking
VCO-1, VCO-8, VCO-16 - Communication Protocol 91
P/N:
2
900
-30
0592
Rev:
1
SAFETY WARNING
Disconnect the unit from the power supply before opening and servicing
For the latest information on our products and a list of Kramer distributors, visit our Web site where updates to this user manual may be found.
We welcome your questions, comments, and feedback.
www.kramerAV.com info@kramerel.com
Loading...