Kramer VM-4HDCP User Manual

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.

USER MANUAL

Model:

VM-4HDCP

1:4 DVI Distributor

Contents

i

Contents

1

Introduction 1

2

Getting Started 1

2.1

Quick Start 2

3

Overview 3

3.1

About HDCP 3

3.2

Defining EDID 4

3.3

Recommendations for Best Performance 4

4

Your VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor 4

5

Installing the VM-4HDCP on a Rack 7

6

Connecting a VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor 8

6.1

Acquiring EDID 9

6.1.1 Acquiring the EDID from a Selected Output 9

6.1.2 Restoring the Default EDID 9

7

Technical Specifications 10

Figures

Figure 1: VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor 5
Figure 2: Connecting a VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor 8

Tables

Table 1: Front Panel VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor Features 6
Table 2: Rear Panel VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor Features 6
Table 3: Technical Specifications of the VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor 10

Introduction

1

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-4HDCP 1:4 DVI
Distributor. The VM-4HDCP is ideal for:

 Multiple screen applications

 Rental and staging

Each package includes the following items:

 VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI 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

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.kramerelectronics.com

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Getting Started

2

2.1 Quick Start

This quick start chart summarizes the basic setup and operation steps.

Acquiring the EDID from a selected output











Turn ON the power

Press the SELECT button to cycle
from one output to another until you
reach the desired output

Turn ON the power

Press the READ button

Turn OFF the power

Restoring the default EDID









Disconnect the outputs

Turn OFF the power

Turn ON the power

Press the READ button

Projector

Display

Display

Display

Overview

3

3 Overview

The Kramer VM-4HDCP, is an HDCP (High-Bandwidth Digital Content
Protection)1 compatible 1:4 distribution amplifier for DVI-D (Digital)
signals2. Since high-resolution DVI signals are very sensitive to cable quality
and to PCB layout, the VM-4HDCP uses a uniquely designed PCB which
includes all buffering, conditioning and amplifying circuitry to provide four
high-level output signals.

In particular, the VM-4HDCP:

 Distributes signals having resolutions up to UXGA, including all HDTV

formats

 Has a bandwidth of 1.65GHz

 Supports the DDWG DVI 1.0 standard

 Consists of a built-in re-clocking block that re-generates the DVI signal,

so that several units may be cascaded

 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 DVI
source even if the display device is not connected

 Stores a default EDID for fast and efficient connection of the unit4

 Has five DVI-I connectors, which are compatible with all types of DVI

cables

 Is a cost-effective solution for distributing the TMDS signals used for

DVI, and uses state-of-the-art line drivers on each of the 4 outputs

The VM-4HDCP fits in one vertical space of a standard 19” professional
rack enclosure (1U).

3.1 About HDCP

The High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) standard5, protects
digital video and audio signals transmitted over DVI or HDMI connections
between two HDCP-enabled devices to eliminate the reproduction of
copyrighted material. To protect copyright holders (such as movie studios)
from having their programs copied and shared, the HDCP standard provides
for the secure, encrypted transmission of digital signals.

1 Note that Kramer Electronics Limited is an HDCP Licensee, see http://www.digital-cp.com/list/

2 For HDMI applications, use the Kramer VM-4HDMI

3 EDID is Extended Display Identification Data

4 The default EDID feature lets you connect the VM-4HDCP without having to connect a display to the output

5 Developed by Intel

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Your VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor

4

3.2 Defining EDID

The Extended Display Identification Data (EDID1) is a data-structure,
provided by a display, to describe its capabilities to the source. The EDID
enables the VM-4HDCP 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

Achieving the best performance means:

 Connecting 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)

 Avoiding interference from neighboring electrical appliances and

positioning your VM-4HDCP away from moisture, excessive sunlight
and dust

4 Your VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor

Figure 1 and Table 1 define the VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor:

1 Defined by a standard published by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA)

Your VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor

5

Figure 1: VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Your VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor

6

Table 1: Front Panel VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor Features

# Feature Function

1 POWER Switch Illuminated switch for turning the unit ON or OFF

2 ACTIVE LED Lights when the input is active; blinks when the input is not valid

3 READ Button Press to read the EDID of the selected display

4

EDID

SELECT Button Select the desired display for EDID information

5 OUTPUT LEDs 1, 2, 3 and 4 LEDs light when an output(s) is connected and active; LEDs blink

when selecting EDID (see section 6.1)

Table 2: Rear Panel VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor Features

# Feature Function

6 INPUT DVI Connector Connects to the DVI source

7 OUTPUT DVI Connectors Connect to the DVI acceptors (from 1 to 4)

8 Power Connector with Fuse AC connector enabling power supply to the unit

Installing the VM-4HDCP on a Rack

7

5 Installing the VM-4HDCP on a Rack

This section describes what to do before installing on a rack and how to rack
mount.

Before Installing on a Rack

Before installing on a rack, be sure that the environment is
within the recommended range:

Operating temperature range +5 to +45 Deg. Centigrade

Operating humidity range 5 to 65 % RHL, non-condensing

Storage temperature range -20 to +70 Deg. Centigrade

Storage humidity range 5 to 95% RHL, non-condensing

CAUTION!!

When installing on a 19" rack, avoid hazards by taking care

that:

1 It is located within the recommended environmental

conditions, as the operating ambient temperature of a
closed or multi unit rack assembly may exceed the room
ambient temperature.

2 Once rack mounted, enough air will still flow around the

machine.

3 The machine is placed straight in the correct horizontal

position.

4 You do not overload the circuit(s). When connecting the

machine to the supply circuit, overloading the circuits
might have a detrimental effect on overcurrent
protection and supply wiring. Refer to the appropriate
nameplate ratings for information. For example, for fuse
replacement, see the value printed on the product label.

5 The machine is earthed (grounded) in a reliable way

and is connected only to an electricity socket with
grounding. Pay particular attention to supply
connections other than direct connections to the branch
circuit (for example, the use of power strips), and that
you use only the power cord that is supplied with the
machine.

How to Rack Mount

To rack-mount the machine:

1 Attach both ear brackets to the

machine. To do so, remove the
screws from each side of the
machine (3 on each side), and
replace those screws through
the ear brackets.

2 Place the ears of the machine

against the rack rails, and
insert the proper screws (not
provided) through each of the

four holes in the rack ears.
Note that:

 In some models, the front panel
may feature built-in rack ears

 Detachable rack ears can be
removed for desktop use

 Always mount the machine in the
rack before you attach any cables or
connect the machine to the power

 If you are using a Kramer rack
adapter kit (for a machine that is not
19"), see the Rack Adapters user
manual for installation instructions
(you can download it at:
http://www.kramerelectronics.com)

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Connecting a VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor

8

6 Connecting a VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor

To connect the VM-4HDCP as illustrated in the example in Figure 2, do the
following:

1. Connect a DVI source (for example, a computer) to the INPUT
connector.

2. Connect the 4 OUTPUT connectors1 to up to 4 DVI acceptors, as follows:

 OUTPUT 1 connector to DVI acceptor 1 (for example, a projector)
 OUTPUT 2 connector to DVI acceptor 2 (for example, a display)
 OUTPUT 3 connector to DVI acceptor 3 (for example, a display)
 OUTPUT 4 connector to DVI acceptor 4 (for example, a display)

3. Connect the power cord to the mains electricity (not shown in Figure 2).

To use the VM-4HDCP, do the following:

1. Turn ON the POWER.

2. Acquire the EDID (see section 6.1).

Projector

Display

Display

Display

Figure 2: Connecting a VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor

1 Not all the outputs need to be connected

Connecting a VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor

9

6.1 Acquiring EDID

The VM-4HDCP initially operates with the default EDID. This means that
you can turn ON the power before connecting any of the acceptors or the
source.

6.1.1 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 OUTPUT LEDs blink.

2. Press the SELECT button again to cycle from one output to another until
reaching the desired output1.

3. Press the READ button.
The blinking ceases and the button illuminates. The VM-4HDCP
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.

4. Turn OFF the power on the VM-4HDCP.

5. Turn ON the power.

6.1.2 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

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Technical Specifications

10

7 Technical Specifications

Table 3 includes the technical specifications:

Table 3: Technical Specifications1 of the VM-4HDCP 1:4 DVI Distributor

INPUT: 1 DVI, 1.2Vpp on a DVI Molex 24pin female connector; DDC signal 5Vpp (TTL)

OUTPUTS: 4 DVI, 1.2Vpp on DVI Molex 24pin female connectors; DDC signal 5Vpp (TTL)

BANDWIDTH: 1.65GHz
CONTROLS: SELECT and READ buttons for selecting and storing EDID information

POWER SOURCE: 100-264 VAC, 50/60Hz 11VA

DIMENSIONS: 19-inch (W), 7-inch (D), 1U (H)

WEIGHT: 2.5 kg. (5.5 lbs.) approx.

ACCESSORIES: Power cord

OPTIONS: Kramer DVI cables2

1 Specifications are subject to change without notice

2 The complete list of Kramer cables is on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com

11

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 agents listed in the Web site
www.kramerelectronics.com.

2. Any product, on which the serial number has been defaced, modified or removed.

3. Damage, deterioration or malfunction resulting from:
i) Accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, fire, water, lightning or other acts of nature

ii) Product modification, or failure to follow instructions supplied with the product
iii) Repair or attempted repair by anyone not authorized by Kramer
iv) Any shipment of the product (claims must be presented to the carrier)
v) Removal or installation of the product
vi) Any other cause, which does not relate to a product defect
vii) Cartons, equipment enclosures, cables or accessories used in conjunction 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 adjustments (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 invoice (or a copy) must be presented as proof of warranty coverage,
and should be included in any shipment of the product. Please also include in any mailing a contact name, company, address, and
a description of the problem(s).

3. For the name of the nearest Kramer authorized service center, 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, loss of use o f the product, loss
of time, commercial loss; or:

2. Any other damages, whether incidental, consequential or otherwise. Some countries may not allow limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, 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 approval. This may be obtained from your dealer.
This equipment has been tested to determine compliance with the requirements of:
EN-50081: "Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC);

generic emission standard.
Part 1: Residential, commercial and light industry"

EN-50082: "Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) generic immunity standard.

Part 1: Residential, commercial and light industry environment".

CFR-47: FCC Rules and Regulations:

Part 15: “Radio frequency devices
Subpart B – Unintentional radiators”

CAUTION!

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 manufacturer will void user authority to operate the equipment.

Use the supplied DC power supply to feed power to the machine.
Please use recommended interconnection cables to connect the machine to other components.

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.

Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com

E-mail: [e-mail]

P/N: 2900-000193 REV 1

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.

Caution

Safety Warning:

Disconnect the unit from the power supply before
opening/servicing.