Kramer VM-16HDMI, VM-8HDMI User Manual

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.

USER MANUAL

Models:

VM-8HDMI,

1:8 HDMI Distributor

VM-16HDMI,

1:16 HDMI Distributor

Contents

i

Contents

1

Introduction 1

2

Getting Started 1

2.1

Quick Start 1

3

Overview 3

3.1

About HDMI 4

3.2

Defining EDID 5

3.3

Recommendations for Best Performance 5

4

Your HDMI Distributors 5

5

Installing the VM8HDMI / VM-16HDMI on a Rack 9

6

Connecting the VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI Distributor 10

6.1

Acquiring the EDID 11

6.1.1 Acquiring the EDID from a Selected Output 11

7

Technical Specifications 11

Figures

Figure 1: VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI Distributor 6
Figure 2: VM-16HDMI 1:16 HDMI Distributor 7
Figure 3: Connecting a VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI Distributor 10

Tables

Table 1: HDMI Distributor Features 8
Table 2: Technical Specifications of the VM-8HDMI and the VM-16HDMI 11

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-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI
Distributor and/or VM-16HDMI 1:16 HDMI Distributor. The HDMI
distributor is ideal for:

 Home theater, presentation and multimedia applications

 Rental and staging

 Retail store displays

The package includes the following items:

 VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI Distributor and/or VM-16HDMI 1:16 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

2.1 Quick Start

This VM-8HDMI quick start chart summarizes the basic setup and operation
steps4.

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

4 This quick start also applies to the VM-16HDMI which has 16 outputs instead of eight

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Getting Started

2

DVD Player

Plasma

Display 1

Plasma

Display 8

Overview

3

3 Overview

The Kramer VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI Distributor and the VM-16HDMI 1:16
HDMI Distributor are high quality distributors that accept an HDMI input and

distribute the signal to 8/16 outputs respectively, allowing one or more of the
outputs to be connected to receiving devices, thus making them a versatile,
reliable component in a video system. The VM-8HDMI / VM-16HDMI
distribute signals having resolutions up to UXGA, including all HDTV formats.

In particular, the HDMI distributors:

 Support up to 1.65Gbps bandwidth per graphic channel1

 Equalize and reclock the data

 Feature a default EDID2 for fast and efficient connection of the unit3

 Can read and store, in non-volatile memory, the EDID 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

 Include HDMI connectors4, output status LEDs4, and EDID read and

select buttons

The HDMI distributors are housed in a 19" 1U rack-mountable enclosure, and
are fed from a 100-264 VAC universal switching power supply.

1 Suitable for resolutions up to UXGA at 60Hz, and for all HD resolutions

2 EDID is Extended Display Identification Data

3 The default EDID feature lets you connect the VM-8HDMI/VM-16HDMI without having to connect a display to the output

4 Eight for the VM-8HDMI and 16 for the VM-16HDMI

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Overview

4

3.1 About HDMI

High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is an uncompressed all-digital1
audio/video interface, widely supported in the entertainment and home cinema
industry. It delivers the highest high-definition image and sound quality. Note
that Kramer Electronics Limited is an HDMI Adopter2 and an HDCP Licensee3.

In particular, HDMI:

 Provides a simple4 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 lengthy5 cable

 Supports standard, enhanced, high-definition video, and multi-channel

digital audio6 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

 Benefits consumers by providing superior, uncompressed digital video

quality via a single cable7, 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/50/60), as

well as standard definition formats such as NTSC or PAL

1 Ensuring an all-digital rendering of video without the losses associated with analog interfaces and their unnecessary digital-

to-analog conversions

2 See http://www.hdmi.org/about/adopters_founders.asp

3 See http://www.digital-cp.com/list/

4 With video and multi-channel audio combined into a single cable, the cost, complexity, and confusion of multiple cables

currently used in A/V systems is reduced

5 HDMI technology has been designed to use standard copper cable construction at up to 15m

6 HDMI supports multiple 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

7 HDMI provides the quality and functionality of a digital interface while also supporting uncompressed video formats in a

simple, cost-effective manner

Your HDMI Distributors

5

3.2 Defining EDID

The Extended Display Identification Data (EDID1) 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-8HDMI/
VM-16HDMI 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 HDMI distributors away from moisture, excessive sunlight and dust

4 Your HDMI Distributors

Figure 1 illustrates the VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI Distributor, Figure 2
illustrates the VM-16HDMI 1:16 HDMI Distributor and Table 1 defines both
the VM-8HDMI and the VM-16HDMI.

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

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Your HDMI Distributors

6

Figure 1: VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI Distributor

Your HDMI Distributors

7

Figure 2: VM-16HDMI 1:16 HDMI Distributor

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Your HDMI Distributors

8

Table 1: HDMI Distributor Features

# Feature Function

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

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

3

EDID

SELECT Button Select the desired display for EDID information

4 OUTPUT STATUS LEDs LEDs light when an output(s) is connected and

active; LEDs blink when selecting the EDID (see
section 6.1)

5 INPUT HDMI Connector Connects to the HDMI source
6 OUTPUT HDMI Connectors Connect to the HDMI acceptors1

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

1 For the VM-8HDMI, from 1 to 8; for the VM-16HDMI, from 1 to 16

Installing the VM8HDMI / VM-16HDMI on a Rack

9

5 Installing the VM8HDMI / VM-16HDMI on a Rack

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

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

Operating temperature range +5 to +45 Deg. Centigrade

5 to 65% RHL, non-condensing

-20 to +70 Deg. Centigrade

5 to 95% RHL, non-condensing

Operating humidity range

Storage temperature range

Storage humidity range

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

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.

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.

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:

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)









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

Once rack mounted, enough air will still flow around the
machine.

The machine is placed straight in the correct horizontal
position.

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.

The machine is earthed (grounded) in a reliable way
and is connected only to an electricity socket with
grounding. Pay particular attention

and that you use only the power cord that is

supplied with the machine.

to situations where
electricity is supplied indirectly (when the power cord is
not plugged directly into the socket in the wall), for
example, when using an extension cable or a power
strip,



CAUTION!!

Before Installing on a Rack

How to Rack Mount

To rack-mount a machine:

1

1

2

2

3

4

5

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Connecting the VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI Distributor

10

6 Connecting the VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI Distributor

To connect the VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI distributor1, do the following:

1. Connect an HDMI source (for example, a DVD player) to the INPUT
connector.

2. Connect the eight OUTPUT connectors to eight2 HDMI acceptors (for
example, plasma displays).

3. Connect the power cord to the mains electricity.

4. Turn ON the POWER.

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

DVD Player

Plasma

Display 1

Plasma

Display 8

Figure 3: Connecting a VM-8HDMI 1:8 HDMI Distributor

1 From this section on, all the information is relevant to both the VM-8HDMI and the VM-16HDMI, unless noted otherwise

2 As required. Up to 8 outputs can be connected on the VM-8HDMI and up to 16 outputs can be connected on the

VM-16HDMI. Not all outputs need to be connected

Technical Specifications

11

6.1 Acquiring the EDID

The VM-8HDMI 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 OUTPUTS LEDs blink.

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

To reset the default EDID, select a disconnected output

3. Press the READ button.
The blinking ceases and the button illuminates. The VM-8HDMI 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.

7 Technical Specifications

Table 2 includes the technical specifications:

Table 2: Technical Specifications2 of the VM-8HDMI and the VM-16HDMI

VM-8HDMI VM-16HDMI

INPUT: HDMI Connector
OUTPUTS: 8 HDMI Connectors 16 HDMI Connectors

BANDWIDTH: Supports up to 1.65Gbps per graphic channel

COMPLIANCE WITH
HDMI STANDARD:

Supports HDMI 1.0 and HDCP

CONTROLS: SELECT and READ buttons for selecting and storing EDID information

INDICATOR LEDs: OUTPUT STATUS 1 to 8 OUTPUT STATUS 1 to 16

POWER SOURCE: 100-264 VAC, 50/60Hz 25VA
DIMENSIONS: 19-inch (W), 7-inch (D), 1U (H)

WEIGHT: 3.5kg. (7.7lbs.) approx. 4.5kg. (9.9lbs.) approx.

ACCESSORIES: Power cord

OPTIONS: HDMI/HDMI male-to-male cables

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

2 Specifications are subject to change without notice

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY

12

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:

4. Damage to other property caused by defects in this product, damages based upon inconvenience, loss of use of the product, loss
of time, commercial loss; or:

5. 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: 2900-000237 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.