KRAMER ELECTRONICS, Ltd.
USER MANUAL
Distribution Amplifiers Models:
VM-1010, VM-1015, VM-1021,
VM-1042, VM-1044, VM-1055, VM-54
IMPORTANT: Before proceeding, please read paragraph entitled
"Unpacking and Contents"
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
Table of Contents
Section Name Page
1 INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 A Word On Distribution Amplifiers 1
1.2 Factors Affecting Quality of Results 2
2 SPECIFICATIONS 3
3 HOW DO I GET STARTED? 4
4 UNPACKING AND CONTENTS 4
4.1 Optional Accessories 4
5 VM SERIES AMPLIFIERS 5
5.1 Getting To Know Your VM-1010 Amplifier 5
5.2 Getting To Know Your VM-1015 Amplifier 6
5.3 Getting To Know Your VM-1021 Amplifier 7
5.4 Getting To Know Your VM-1042 Amplifier 9
5.5 Getting To Know Your VM-1044 Amplifier 10
5.6 Getting To Know Your VM-1055 Amplifier 11
5.7 Getting To Know Your VM-54 Amplifier 12
6 INSTALLATION 14
6.1 Rack Mounting 14
7 CONNECTING TO VIDEO DEVICES 15
8 USING THE VIDEO AMPLIFIERS 15
8.1 Powering On The Amplifier 15
8.2 Looping 15
8.3 Level Control 16
8.4 Equalization Control 16
8.5 Coupling 17
8.6 Black Level Clamping 17
8.7 Sync Tip Clamping 17
9 TAKING CARE OF YOUR VIDEO AMPLIFIER 17
10 TROUBLESHOOTING 18
10.1 Power And Indicators 18
10.2 Video Signal 18
Limited Warranty 20
List Of Illustrations
Figure Page
1 VM-1010 Front/Rear Panel Features 5
2 VM-1015 Front/Rear Panel Features 6
3 VM-1021 Front/Rear Panel Features 7
4 VM-1042 Front Panel Features 9
5 VM-1044 Front/Rear Panel Features 10
6 VM-1055 Front/Rear Panel Features 11
7 VM-54 Front/Rear Panel Features 12
List Of Tables
Table Page
1 VM-1010 Front Panel Features 5
2 VM-1010 Rear Panel Features 6
3 VM-1015 Front Panel Features 7
4 VM-1015 Rear Panel Features 7
5 VM-1021 Front Panel Features 8
6 VM-1021 Rear Panel Features 8
7 VM-1042 Front/Rear Panel Features 9
8 VM-1044 Front/Rear Panel Features 11
9 VM-1055 Front/Rear Panel Features 12
10 VM-54 Front Panel Features 13
11 VM-54 Rear Panel Features 14
12 Signals Supported By Model 15
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
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INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your purchase of this Kramer Electronics amplifier. Since 1981 Kramer
has been dedicated to the development and manufacture of high quality video/audio
equipment. The Kramer industrial line has become an integral part of many of the best
production and presentation facilities around the world. In recent years, Kramer has
redesigned and upgraded most of the industrial line, making the best even better. Kramer’s
line of professional video/audio electronics is one of the most versatile and complete
available, and is a true leader in terms of quality, workmanship, price/performance ratio
and innovation. In addition to the Kramer line of high quality amplifiers, such as the one
you have just purchased, Kramer also offers a full line of high quality industrial and
broadcast switchers, processors, interfaces, controllers and computer-related products.
Kramer welcomes your inquiries for Kramer equipment or custom-manufactured products,
engineering, private labeling and OEM manufacturing per your specifications.
This manual includes configuration, operation and information for the following products
from the Kramer VM line of distribution amplifiers. All these VM amplifiers are similar in
operation and features.
VM-1010 - 1:10 Video Distributor
VM-1015 - 1:5 Video Distributor
VM-1021 - 1:20 Video Distributor
VM-1042 - 4:2 Video Component Distributor
VM-1044 - 4:4 Video Distributor
VM-1055 - 1:5 Five Channel Video Component Distributor
VM-54 - Looping Video Distributor
A Word On Distribution Amplifiers
Distribution amplifiers are used to distribute one source to several acceptors for
simultaneous recording or monitoring of one source, with no discernible signal
degradation. They vary in the number of inputs, looping capability, programming
capability, number of outputs, operating format, bandwidth and input/output coupling. A
good quality distribution amplifier amplifies the incoming signal, pre-compensates the
signal for potential losses (resulting from the use of long cables, noisy source, etc.) and
generates several identical buffered and amplified outputs. Often, a signal processor is
inserted between the source and the distribution amplifier for correction and fine-tuning of
the source signal before multiplication, so that all copies are corrected in the same way.
The front panels of these Kramer amplifiers are designed to be simple to operate.
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
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Factors Affecting Quality of Results
There are many factors affecting the quality of results when signals are transmitted from a
source to an acceptor:
Connection cables - Low quality cables are susceptible to interference, they degrade signal
quality due to poor matching and cause elevated noise levels. They should therefore be of
the best quality.
Sockets and connectors of the sources and acceptors - So often ignored, they should be of
highest quality, since "Zero " connection resistance is the target. Sockets and connectors
also must match the required impedance (75 in video). Cheap, low quality connectors
tend to rust, thus causing flaws in the signal path.
Amplifying circuitry - Must have quality performance when the desired end result is high
linearity, low distortion and low noise operation.
Distance between sources and acceptors - Plays a major role in the final result. For long
distances (over 15 meters) between sources and acceptors, special measures should be
taken in order to avoid cable losses. These include using higher quality cables or adding
line amplifiers.
Interference from neighboring electrical appliances - These can have an adverse effect on
signal quality. Balanced audio lines are less prone to interference, but unbalanced audio
should be installed far from any mains power cables, electric motors, transmitters, etc.
even when the cables are shielded.
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
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(D),
(D),
(D),
(D),
(D),
(D),
(D),
SPECIFICATIONS
Configuration
Input Type
Input
Connections
Input Level
Output Type
Output
Connector
Output Level
Output
Coupling
S/N Ratio
Bandwidth
Differential
Gain
Differential
Phase
K-Factor
Non Linearity
EQ. Control
DC Clamp
Level Control
Dimensions
Weight
Power
consumption
Power Source
VM-1010 VM-1015 VM-1021 VM-1042 VM-1044 VM-1055 VM-54
2X CV 1X CV 1X CV 4XCV/RGB 4XCV/RGB 5XCV/ RGB
CV CV CV CV/RGB CV/RGB CV/RGB HSVS CV/Comp
BNC BNC BNC BNC BNC BNC BNC
1Vpp/75
looping
1X10 or 2X5 5XCV CV 3Vpp Max. 2X4 CV/RGB
BNC BNC BNC BNC BNC BNC BNC
1Vpp/75 1Vpp/75 1Vpp/75 1Vpp/75 1Vpp/75 1Vpp/75 1Vpp/75
DC/AC AC/ DC/
74dB 75dB 74dB 73dB 74dB 74dB 70dB
220MHz –3dB 340MHz -3dB 350 MHz -3dB 200 MHz -3dB 320 MHz -3dB 300 MHz -3dB 350MHz
0.05%. 0.08%. 0.1%. 0.05%. 0.05%. 0.1%. 0.03%
0.05Deg 0.12Deg 0.07Deg 0.05Deg 0.05Deg 0.1Deg 0.09Deg
<0.05%. <0.03%. <0.03%. <0.05%. 0.1%. 0.05%. <0.05%
0.2% <0.1%. 0.1%. <0.1%. <0.1%. 0.1%. 0.2%
0 to 2.5dB @
100% color bar,
4.43MHz
Not clamped 0 V DC Black
-1.4dB to
+2.5dB
19” (W), 7”
1U (H)
48.26 cm x
17.78 x 4.5cm
2.5kg (5.55lb)
Approx.
10.3VA 4.6VA 6.7VA 3.2VA 4.6VA 5.3VA 21.39VA
230V/115V AC
50/60Hz
1Vpp/75
looping
Clamped
0 to 2.7dB @
100% color bar,
4.43MHz
Level, or sync
bottom TIP
-1.2dB to
+2.8dB
(trimmer)
19” (W), 7”
1U (H)
48.26 cm x
17.78 x 4.5cm
2.42kg (5.38lb)
approx.
230V/115V AC
50/60Hz
1Vpp/75
looping
AC/ DC/
Clamped
0 to 2.9dB @
100% color bar,
4.43MHz
0 V DC Black
Level, or sync
bottom TIP
4 accessible
trimmers
19” (W), 7”
1U (H)
48.26 cm x
17.78 x 4.5cm
2.66kg (5.91lb)
approx.
230V/115V AC
50/60Hz
1Vpp/75
looping
2Vpp
DC DC DC DC/AC
0 to 1.3dB @
100% color bar,
4.43MHz
Not clamped Not clamped Not clamped Not clamped
-2.2dB to
+2.0dB
19” (W), 7”
1U (H)
48.26 cm x
17.78 x 4.5cm
2.5kg (5.55lb)
approx.
230V/115V AC
50/60Hz
1Vpp/75 1Vpp/75 1Vpp/75
4X4 CV/RGB 5X5CV/ RGB
0 to 0.9dB @
100% color bar,
4.43MHz
-1.1dB to
+2.5dB
19” (W), 7”
1U (H)
48.26 cm x
17.78 x 4.5cm
2.54kg (5.64lb)
approx.
230V/115V AC
50/60Hz
HSVS
HSVS
No equalization 0 to 2.3dB
Fixed gain=1 24 accessible
19” (W), 7”
1U (H)
48.26 cm x
17.78 x 4.5cm
2.66kg (5.91lb)
approx.
230V/115V AC
50/60Hz
1X CV, 3comp
looping
3x18
Composite/ CV
trimmers
19” (W), 7”
2U (H)
48.26 cm x
17.78 x 9 cm
3.98kg (8.84lb)
approx.
230V/115V AC
50/60Hz
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
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HOW DO I GET STARTED?
The fastest way to get started is to take your time and do everything right the first time.
Taking 15 minutes to read the manual may save you a few hours later. You don’t even
have to read the whole manual. At the beginning of each section, you’ll find an overview
of the section. So if the section doesn’t apply to you, you don’t have to spend your time
reading it.
UNPACKING AND CONTENTS
The items contained in your Kramer VM Amplifier packaging are listed below. Please save
the original box and packaging materials for possible future transportation and shipment of
the Amplifier.
Amplifier (rack-mountable)
AC power cable
User Manual
4 rubber feet
For additional information regarding optional cables and optional accessories contact your
Kramer dealer.
Optional Accessories
The following Kramer accessories can enhance implementation of your amplifier.
SP-11 - (Video/Audio Processor) can be serially connected between the video/audio source
and the VM amplifier for video and audio control/correction. The machine provides camera
control and luminance/white balance correction. The SP-11 is also capable of performing
Composite to Y/C conversion and bi-directional transcoding. The machine allows full control
over the video signal: Video gain down to full fade, log or linear Definition control, log or
linear Contrast control, Color saturation control, Black Level control, Red, Green and Blue
controls and a Screen Splitter control for “before-after” comparison. The Input switch control
is "Audio-follow-Video".
SP-3001 - (Component Video Processor) can be serially connected to the VM amplifier in
order to achieve full control of component video. The SP -3001 has 3 looping Component
Video inputs and 9 outputs- three for each component; thus it serves as a Component DA as
well. The SP -3001 allows full control of Gain, Contrast, Definition and black level of the Y
channel and individual Gain and Black level controls of the R-Y and B-Y channels. A Screen
Splitter control for "before-after" comparison is also built in.
611T/611R - (611T full bandwidth Fiber Optic Transmitter and 611R matching Fiber Optic
Receiver) Part of the KRAMER TOOLS series, and designed for studio and other demanding
applications. These machines, in combination, may be used to send one of the distributed
channels to distances of 5-25Km. The 611T and 611R use state-of-the-art fiber optic circuitry
and allow the user (via rear panel trimmers) to adjust input and output video levels and high
frequency peaking to achieve best performance. Both machines, like all KRAMER TOOLS,
are fed from a 12V DC source, making them perfectly suitable for fieldwork as well.
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VIDEO TESTER - A new, unique, patented, indispensable tool for the video professional,
the Video Tester is used to test a video path leading to/from an amplifier. By pressing only one
touch switch it can trace missing signals, distinguish between good and jittery (VCR sourced)
signals, and identify the presence of good signals. Whenever a video signal is missing, because
of bad connections, cable breaks or faulty sources, the Video Tester is all you need.
VM SERIES AMPLIFIERS
This section describes all the controls and connections of your amplifier. Understanding all
of the controls and connections helps you realize its full power.
Getting To Know Your VM-1010 Amplifier
The KRAMER VM-1010 is full broadcast, state-of-the-art, Programmable Video
Distribution Amplifier designed for studio and other demanding applications. The VM1010 has two looping video inputs, each splitting to 5 outputs. The user may select 2x1:5
or 1:10 operation via front panel control switches. Several VM-1010 units may be chained
through the looping inputs. Output signals are (user selectable) DC or AC coupled for
maximum flexibility.
Front/rear panel features of the VM-1010 are described in Figure 1, Table 1 and Table 2.
No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Figure 1: VM-1010 Front/Rear Panel Features
Table 1: VM-1010 Front Panel Features
Feature
Function
Power switch Illuminated switch: Supplies power to the unit.
EQ trimmer (CHANNEL B) Controls cable equalization of channel B outputs.
Level trimmer (CHANNEL B) Controls video level of channel B outputs.
MODE (2 x 1:5, 1:10) pushbutton Selects either 1:10 or 2 x 1:5 operation.
EQ trimmer (CHANNEL A) Controls cable equalization of channel A outputs.
Level trimmer (CHANNEL A) Controls video level of channel A outputs.
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No.
Table 2: VM-1010 Rear Panel Features
Feature Function
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
OUT 1A -5A BNC connectors 5 amplified and buffered video outputs.
INPUT A BNC connector Video input.
75 pushbutton Selects "75" or "HI-z" impedance (for looping select "Hi-
z").
DC pushbutton Selects DC coupling when pushed.
LOOP BNC connector Provides video looping capability to increase number of
outputs.
INPUT B BNC connector Video input.
75 pushbutton Selects "75" or "HI-z" impedance (for looping select Hi-
z).
DC pushbutton Selects DC coupling when pushed.
LOOP BNC connector Provides video looping capability to increase number of
outputs.
OUT 1B –5B BNC connectors 5 amplified and buffered video outputs.
Power Connector
A 3-prong AC connector allows power to be supplied to the
unit. Directly underneath this connector, a fuse holder houses
the appropriate fuse.
Getting To Know Your VM-1015 Amplifier
The KRAMER VM-1015 is a full broadcast, state-of-the-art 1:5 Video Distribution
Amplifier designed for studio and other demanding applications. The VM-1015 splits a
single input source into five identical outputs with no discernible signal degradation.
Output signals can either be AC or DC coupled, black level or sync tip (signal bottom)
clamped, thus allowing the machine to function in all video environments. The machine
may be used to distribute analog or SDI (Serial Digital) video signals, composite or single
component. Video bandwidth of well over 340MHz and superb specifications make the
VM-1015 the ultimate distributor for all video applications.
Front/rear panel features of the VM-1015 are described in Figure 2, Table 3 and Table 4.
Figure 2: VM-1015 Front/Rear Panel Features
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
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No.
Feature
Table 3: VM-1015 Front Panel Features
Function
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Power Switch Illuminated switch: Supplies power to the unit.
EQ trimmer (ADJUST) Controls cable equalization of the video outputs.
LEVEL trimmer (ADJUST) Controls video level of the video outputs.
DC (COUPLING) switch Selects DC coupling when pushed.
AC (COUPLING) switch Selects AC coupling when pushed.
BLACK (CLAMP) switch Clamps video signal to the black level when pressed (best used
for Composite or Component video).
TIP (CLAMP) switch Clamps video signal to the sync tip (signal bottom) level when
pressed (best used for RGB signals).
Table 4: VM-1015 Rear Panel Features
Feature Function
INPUT BNC connector Video input
TERM pushbutton Selects “75“ or “HI-z” impedance when pressed (for looping
select "Hi-z").
LOOP BNC connector Provides video looping capability to increase number of outputs.
OUT 1-5 BNC connectors 5 amplified, buffered and clamped video outputs.
5.
Power Connector A 3-prong AC connector allows power to be supplied to the
unit. Directly underneath this connector, a fuse holder houses
the appropriate fuse.
Getting To Know Your VM-1021 Amplifier
The KRAMER VM-1021 is a full broadcast, state-of-the-art, 1:20 Video Distribution
Amplifier designed for studio and other demanding applications. The VM-1021 splits a
single input source into twenty identical outputs with no discernible signal degradation.
Output signals can either be AC or DC coupled, black level or sync tip clamped, thus
allowing the machine to function in all video environments. The outputs are divided into 4
sets of five each, where each set may be individually trimmed (level and EQ) for maximal
flexibility. The machine may be used to distribute analog or SDI (Serial Digital) video
signals, composite or single component. Video bandwidth of well over 350MHz and
superb specifications make the VM-1021 the ultimate distributor for all video applications.
Front/rear panel features of the VM-1021 are described in Figure 3, Table 5 and Table 6.
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
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No.
Figure 3: VM-1021 Front/Rear Panel Features
Table 5: VM-1021 Front Panel Features
Feature Function
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Power Switch Illuminated switch: Supplies power to the unit.
EQ trimmer (SET 4 ADJUST) Controls cable equalization of SET 4 video outputs.
LEVEL trimmer (SET 4 ADJUST) Controls level of SET 4 video outputs.
EQ trimmer (SET 3 ADJUST) Controls cable equalization of SET 3 video outputs.
LEVEL trimmer (SET 3 ADJUST) Controls level of SET 3 video outputs.
EQ trimmer (SET 2 ADJUST) Controls cable equalization of the SET 2 video outputs.
LEVEL trimmer (SET 2 ADJUST) Controls level of SET 2 video outputs.
EQ trimmer (SET 1 ADJUST) Controls cable equalization of the SET 1 video outputs.
LEVEL trimmer (SET 1 ADJUST) Controls level of the SET 1 video outputs.
DC (COUPLING) switch Selects DC coupling when pushed.
AC (COUPLING) switch Selects AC coupling when pushed.
BLACK (CLAMP) switch Clamps video signal to the black level when pressed (best
used for Composite or Component video).
13.
TIP (CLAMP) switch Clamps video signal to the sync tip level when pressed
(best used for RGB signals).
Table 6: VM-1021 Rear Panel Features
No. Feature Function
1.
2.
INPUT BNC connector Video input
TERM pushbutton Selects “75“ or “HI-z” impedance when pressed (for
looping select "Hi-z").
3.
LOOP BNC connector Provides video looping capability to increase number of
outputs.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
OUT 1-5 BNC connectors (SET 1) SET 1 of 5 amplified buffered and clamped video outputs.
OUT 1-5 BNC connectors (SET 2) SET 2 of 5 amplified buffered and clamped video outputs.
OUT 1-5 BNC connectors (SET 3) SET 3 of 5 amplified buffered and clamped video outputs.
OUT 1-5 BNC connectors (SET 4) SET 4 of 5 amplified buffered and clamped video outputs.
Power Connector A 3-prong AC connector allows power to be supplied to the
unit. Directly underneath this connector, a fuse holder houses
the appropriate fuse.
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
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Getting To Know Your VM-1042 Amplifier
The KRAMER VM-1042 is a full broadcast, looping Video Component Distributor
designed for studio and other demanding applications. VM-1042 splits each input of a
four-component source into two identical outputs with no discernible signal degradation.
Input and output DC coupling and state-of-the-art video amplifying circuitry make the
KRAMER VM-1042 the first choice Video Component Distributor. Signal bandwidth of
200MHz allows the VM-1042 to be used for the most demanding applications. The VM1042 may be used as a 4 times looping 1:2 video DA of exceptional quality, for any video
source (Composite, YC, YUV or RGB).
Front/rear panel features of the VM-1042 are described in Figure 4 and Table 7.
Figure 4: VM-1042 Front/Rear Panel Features
Table 7: VM-1042 Front/Rear Panel Features
No.
Feature Function
1. Power Switch (front panel) Illuminated switch: Supplies power to the unit.
2. IN BNC connector
Channel video input.
(CHANNELS A, B, C, D)
3. TERM pushbutton
(CHANNELS A, B, C, D)
4. LOOP BNC connector
(CHANNELS A, B, C, D)
5. OUT 1,2 BNC connectors
Selects “75“or “HI-z” impedance for channel A
when pressed (for looping select "Hi-z").
Provides video looping capability to increase
number of outputs.
Channel amplified and buffered video outputs.
(CHANNELS A, B, C, D)
6. Power Connector (back panel) A 3-prong AC connector allows power to be
supplied to the unit. Directly underneath this
connector, a fuse holder houses the appropriate
fuse.
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
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Getting To Know Your VM-1044 Amplifier
The KRAMER VM-1044 is a full broadcast, Video Component Distributor designed for
studio and other demanding applications. The VM-1044 splits a four-component input
source into four identical outputs, with no discernible signal degradation. Input and output
DC coupling and state-of-the-art video amplifying circuitry make the KRAMER VM-1044
the first choice Video Component Distributor. Signal bandwidth of over 320MHz allows
the VM-1044 to be used with graphics workstations. The VM-1044 may serve as a 4 times
1:4 Video DA of exceptional quality, for any video source (Composite, YC, YUV, RGB
and SDI).
Front/rear panel features of the VM-1044 are described in Figure 5 and Table 8.
Figure 5: VM-1044 Front/Rear Panel Features
Table 8: VM-1044 Front/Rear Panel Features
No. Feature Function
1. Power Switch (front panel) Illuminated switch: Supplies power to the unit.
2. IN BNC connector
Channel video input.
(CHANNEL A, B, C, D)
3. OUT 1- 4 BNC connectors
Channel amplified and buffered video outputs.
(CHANNEL A, B, C, D)
4. Power Connector
A 3-prong AC connector allows power to be supplied to the unit.
Directly underneath this connector, a fuse holder houses the
appropriate fuse.
Getting To Know Your VM-1055 Amplifier
The KRAMER VM-1055 is a full broadcast, Video Component/RGBHV Distributor
designed for studio, graphics workstation, presentation and other demanding applications.
The VM-1055 splits a five-component input source into five identical outputs, with no
discernible signal degradation. DC coupled inputs and outputs and state-of-the-art video
amplifying circuitry make the KRAMER VM-1055 the first choice Video Component
Distributor. Signal bandwidth of over 300 MHz and the option to adjust the termination of
two "sync" channels (75 s analog or TTL level) allow the VM-1055 to be used with
graphics workstations and for presentation purposes. The VM-1055 may function as a 5 X
1:5 Video DA, for any video source when the termination switch is at "75" (Composite,
YC, YUV, RGB and SDI);or as a three analog channels and two TTL channel distributor.
Front/rear panel features of the VM-1055 are described in Figure 6 and Table 9.
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
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Figure 6: VM-1055 Front/Rear Panel Features
Table 9: VM-1055 Front/Rear Panel Features
No. Feature Function
1. Power switch Illuminated switch: Supplies power to the unit.
2. 75 switch Selects “ 75“ or “ HI-z” impedance for Hs Channel. When at
the "75" position, the signal applied to the connector
should be analog video or sync signal. When in the “ HI-z”
position a TTL level sync signal may be used.
3. IN Hs BNC connector Hs Channel video input (horizontal sync).
4. OUT Hs 1- 5 BNC connectors Hs Channel amplified and buffered video outputs.
5. 75 switch Selects “ 75“ or “ HI-z” impedance for Vs Channel. When at
the "75" position, the signal applied to the connector
should be analog video or sync signal. When in the “ HI-z”
position a TTL level sync signal may be used.
6. IN Vs BNC connector Vs Channel video input(vertical sync).
7. OUT Vs 1- 5 BNC connectors Vs Channel amplified and buffered video outputs that are
identical to each other and to the input.
8. IN R BNC connector R Channel video input.
9. OUT R 1-5 impedance for Vs
Channel.
R Channel amplified and buffered video outputs that are
identical to each other and to the input.
10. IN G BNC connector G Channel video input.
11. OUT G 1-5 BNC connectors G Channel amplified and buffered video outputs that are
identical to each other and to the input.
12. IN B BNC connector B Channel video input.
13. OUT B 1-5 BNC connectors B Channel amplified and buffered video outputs that are
identical to each other and to the input.
14. Power Connector A 3-prong AC connector allows power to be supplied to the
unit. Directly underneath this connector, a fuse holder houses
the appropriate fuse.
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
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Getting To Know Your VM-54 Amplifier
The KRAMER VM-54 is a high quality, state-of-the-art, Video/Component Distribution
Amplifier designed for studio and other demanding applications. The VM-54 has three
looping input channels each with 18 outputs. With this configuration a 1:18 RGB
distributor can be formed. Each channel is subdivided into four groups of five or three
outputs, which may be tuned separately for gain and cable EQ. The three input channels
may be looped-through together to form a 1:54 DA, or other configurations (e.g. 1:18
Composite or 1:18 YC - using two channels). To form a 1:54 distributor, the channel 1
LOOP connector should be connected to the input connector of channel 2. The channel 2
LOOP connector should be connected to the input connector of channel 3. The termination
switches of channels 1 and 2 should be set at "Hi-z" and the channel 3 termination switch
should be set to "75". Output signals may be AC or DC coupled via front panel controls.
Signal bandwidth exceeding 350 MHz makes the VM-54 the first choice for a large
video/component distribution center.
Front/rear panel features of the VM-54 are described Figure 7, Table 10 and Table 11.
Figure 7: VM-54 Front/Rear Panel Features
Table 10: VM-54 Front Panel Features
No.
1.
2.
3.
Feature Function
Power Switch Illuminated switch: Supplies power to the unit.
EQ trimmers (OUTPUTS 16-18,
Channels 1-3)
GAIN trimmers (OUTPUTS 16-18,
Controls cable equalization of video outputs 16-18 in
Channels 1-3.
Controls video levels of outputs 16-18 in Channels 1-3.
Channels 1-3)
4.
GAIN trimmers (OUTPUTS 11-15,
EQ trimmers (OUTPUTS 11-15,
Channels 1-3)
Controls cable equalization of video outputs 11-15 in
Channels 1-3.
Controls video levels of outputs 11-15 in Channels 1-3.
Channels 1-3)
5.
KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
EQ trimmers (OUTPUTS 6-10,
Channels 1-3)
Controls cable equalization of video outputs 6-10 in
Channels 1-3.
12
No.
Feature Function
6.
GAIN trimmers (OUTPUTS 6-10,
Controls video levels of outputs 6-10 in Channels 1-3.
Channels 1-3)
7.
8.
EQ trimmers (OUTPUTS 1-5,
Channels 1-3)
GAIN trimmers (OUTPUTS 1-5,
Controls cable equalization of video outputs 1-5 in
Channels 1-3.
Controls video levels of outputs 1-5 in Channels 1-3.
Channels 1-3)
9.
AC/DC switches (Channels 1-3) Selects AC/DC coupling for Channels 1-3 (DC coupling
when pressed).
10.
Hi-Z/75 switches(Channels 1-3) Selects “ Hi-Z/75” impedance for Channels 1-3 (75
termination is applied when pressed).
Table 11: VM-54 Rear Panel Features
No. Feature Function
1.
2.
3.
INPUT BNC connectors (channels 1-3) Video input (channels 1-3).
LOOP BNC connectors (channels 1-3)
OUTPUTS BNC connectors 1-18
(channels 1-3)
Provides video looping capability to increase
number of outputs (channels 1-3).
Video outputs that are identical to each other and to
the input.
4.
Power Connector A 3-prong AC connector allows power to be supplied
to the unit. Directly underneath this connector, a fuse
holder houses the appropriate fuse.
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INSTALLATION
Rack Mounting
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CONNECTING TO VIDEO DEVICES
Video sources and output devices (such as monitors, projectors or recorders) may be
connected to the amplifiers through the BNC type connectors located on the back of the
units. Unused inputs are terminated to 75, and active inputs should be terminated at the
connecting source. Please keep in mind that the output signal format will match that of the
input signal format. (Example: If input is composite, then output is composite.) All signal
connections that use more than one cable interconnecting between devices should be of
equal length. (Example: R,G,B cables between a camera and the amplifier should be equal
in length.) The signals supported by the various models are described in Table 12.
Table 1: Signals Supported By Model
No. Model Supported signal
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
USING THE VIDEO AMPLIFIERS
VM-1010 Composite/component/YC/analog sync video
VM-1015 Composite/component/ analog sync video
VM-1021 Composite/component/ analog sync video
VM-1042 Composite/RGBs/component
VM-1044 Composite/RGBs/component
VM-1055 Composite/RGBHsVs/ analog or TTL sync component
VM-54 Composite/component RGBs video
Powering On The Amplifier
1. The amplifier should only be powered on, after all connections are
completed, and all source devices have been powered on. Do not
attempt to connect or disconnect any video, audio or control
signals to the amplifier while it is powered on!
2. The socket-outlet should be near the equipment and should be
easily accessible. To fully disconnect equipment, remove power
cord from its socket.
NOTES
1) Press the toggle switch on the far-left front panel to the up position. In the up position, the
toggle switch glows red, and the active input button illuminates, as well.
2) Operate the acceptors.
Looping
The looping function enables the operator to extend the number of outputs per input. The
following example describes looping performed by using three amplifiers with one input
and five outputs each: A video signal reaches input of amplifier No. 1. From looping
connector of amplifier No. 1 a cable is connected to input socket of amplifier No. 2. The
loop output of amplifier No. 2 is connected to the input socket of amplifier No. 3. By this
way the input signal is divided into 15 separate output signals. The operator must always
switch to "Hi-z" the termination switch of all the amplifiers but the last. The last
amplifier’ s termination switch should always be at "75
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" to maintain well-matched video
15
line (of 75 impedance) from first to last amplifier. Note that if looping function is not
used, the termination switch should be set to "75 ".
Level Control
(VM-1010, VM-1015, VM-1021, VM-54 only)
Level Control function enables the operator to control video signal level or compensate for
distortions such as those caused by cables that are too long. Using a non-standard, or an
uncalibrated video source also affects the incoming signal. Picture darkness is usually
caused by low video signal and on the other hand, excessive video level "burns" the
picture. The sync signal (approx. -0.3v) may be used to check conformity of the whole
video signal: If sync level is too low or too high, the incoming video signal is not within
the standard level. To correct the incoming video signal, an oscilloscope should be
connected to amplifier’ s output and the LEVEL trimmer adjusted until satisfactory sync
level and hence proper picture are achieved.
WARNING
!
1. Be aware that the amplifier was pre-calibrated for
transparent operation at the factory and re-tuning
it will upset signal transparency.
2. Do not attempt to adjust the LEVEL trimmers
without using accompanying standard calibrated
oscilloscope or waveform monitor!
Equalization Control
(VM-1010, VM-1015, VM-1021, VM-54 only)
Equalization Control function enables the operator to compensate for degradation of the
video signal due to too long or non-standard cables. Popular cables such as the RG-59,
RG-11 or the RG-179 signal cause degradation/attenuation of the following values:
CABLE TYPE LENGTH FREQUENCY ATTENUATION
RG-59
RG-11 100 meter
RG-179
100 meter
100 meter
100 meter
100 meter
100 meter
10MHz
100MHz
10MHz
100MHz
10MHz
100MHz
3.6dB
11dB
2.2dB
7.5dB
8dB
30dB
Degradation and loss of video signal are mainly caused due to stray capacitance which
occur in long cables. As longer cables or higher frequency are used, the problem becomes
worse, resulting in fine detail loss as well as color degradation. When RGB signals are
involved (200-300MHz), degradation is even greater, leading to a total loss of sharpness at
high resolution. It is necessary to compensate for the problem by using the amplifier’ s EQ.
Control trimmer. Equalization is performed as follows: A Color Bar Generator is
connected to amplifier’ s input and a Waveform Monitor (or an Oscilloscope with 75
termination) is connected to the long cable output. A known color bar signal is applied to
the amplifier’ s input and compared to the signal monitored at the far side. The operator
adjusts the EQ. trimmer until the measured output chrominance signal matches that of the
input signal.
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WARNING!
1. The amplifier was calibrated at the factory for
transparent operation at 1 meter. Any re-tuning will
upset amplifier’s transparency.
2. Do not attempt to adjust the Equalization trimmers
without using accompanying standard calibrated
oscilloscope or waveform monitor!
Coupling
The coupling function enables the operator to determine whether the incoming video signal
is DC or AC coupled. When DC coupling is selected and proper standard video signal is
applied to the amplifier’ s input, the output signal is equal to the input signal. When AC
coupling is selected, DC components of the incoming signal are removed. DC coupling is
always preferable since AC coupling might cause some linearity distortions in low and
high frequencies (due to non-ideal behavior of capacitors). A problem may arise when the
incoming signal is riding on a DC offset especially when the acceptors are highly effected
by deviation of DC offsets (A/D converters for example), which in turn results in a
distorted picture.
Black Level Clamping
(VM-1015, VM-1021 only)
In the Black Level Clamping process, the incoming black level signal is "clamped" to
"zero". Whenever this process is activated (by pressing the "BLACK" pushbutton), the
amplifier’ s internal system automatically switches to AC coupling, thus removing the
original DC components of the incoming signal. The black level is clamped to "zero", thus
converting the input signal to a standard video signal. Whenever the picture is distorted,
too dark or too bright the DC offset is probably responsible so it is recommended to choose
AC coupling. If the malfunction still exists, the "BLACK" pushbutton should be activated
to restore the standard DC level of the video signal.
Sync Tip Clamping
(VM-1015, VM-1021 only)
Sync Tip Clamping is recommended for video signals such as RGB. The RGB signal
maximum amplitude is between 0.7V DC to 1V DC and their bottom level should be
always clamped to "zero". It sometimes contains sync signal ("sync on green") and
sometimes does not. When the Sync Tip Clamping process is activated (by pressing the
"Sync Tip" pushbutton), signal bottom level is clamped to "zero" and the whole video
signal is now positive and "zero" clamped.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR VIDEO AMPLIFIER
Do not locate your amplifier in an environment where it is susceptible to dust or moisture.
These may damage the electronics, and cause erratic operation or failure. Do not locate
your amplifier where temperature and humidity may be excessive. Do not clean your
amplifier with abrasives or strong cleaners. Doing so may remove or damage the finish, or
may allow moisture to build up. Take care not to allow dust or particles to build up inside
unused or open connectors.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
NOTES
1. Please note that if the output signal is disturbed or
interrupted by very strong external electromagnetic
interference, it should return and stabilize when such
interference ends. If not, turn the power switch off and on
again to reset the machine.
2. If the recommended actions still do not result in satisfactory
operation, please consult your KRAMER Dealer.
Power and Indicators
Problem Remedy
No Power 1. Confirm that rocker switch is in “ON” position, and red LED is
illuminated.
2. Confirm that power connections are secured at the amplifier and at the
receptacle. Make sure the receptacle is active, outputting the proper
mains voltage.
3. If there is still no power, check the fuse. Remove power cord from the
Video Signal
Problem Remedy
No video at the
1. Confirm that your sources and output device are powered on and
output device,
regardless of
input selected.
2. Confirm that any other amplifiers in the signal path have the proper input
3. Use a Video Tester to test the video path leading to/from your amplifier.
Video level is too
1. The amplifiers in this manual (except for the VM-1044 and VM-54)
high or too dim.
AC outlet and from the machine and then, using a flat head screwdriver,
remove the fuse holder located directly below the power connector.
Confirm that the fuse is good by looking at the wire connected to the
ends of the fuse. If the wire is broken, replace the fuse with another,
with the same value.
connected properly. Video signals at the input of your amplifier should
be of an identical signal format at the output of your source. Video
signals at the output of your amplifier should be of an identical signal
format as at the input of your display or recorder.
and/or output selected.
have termination switches on each input. Verify that the video line is
well matched through 75 impedance, otherwise it results in a video
level that is too high or too dim when looping is performed and the
termination switches are not in proper position.
2. Confirm that the connecting cables are of high quality, properly built and
terminated with 75 BNC connectors. Check level controls located on your
source input device or output display or recorder.
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Problem Remedy
Noise bars "roll"
up or down in the
output image
or:
Low frequency
hum in the output
signal
Hum bars (ground loop) are caused by a difference in the ground potential of any
two or more devices connected to your signal path. This voltage difference passes
through any available interconnection, including your video cables.
WARNING
!
Do not disconnect the ground from any piece of video
equipment in your signal path!
Check the following to remove hum bars:
1. Confirm that all interconnected equipment is connected to the same
phase of power, if possible.
2. Remove equipment connected to the phase that may be introducing
noise, such as motors, generators, etc.
3. Disconnect all cables and reconnect them one at a time until ground loop
reappears. Disconnect the affected cable and replace, or insert an
isolation device (opto isolator or transformer) in the signal path.
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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.
Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com
E-mail: info@kramerel.com
P/N: 2900-001001 REV 4
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