7 Input A/V Switcher
with Component Video, Digital Audio, Conversion,
Automatic Input Mode and Volume Stabilizer
Model VS-712EX
User Manual
Package Contents:
1 - VS-712EX A/V switcher unit
1 - Power Adapter, (120VAC input,15VDC output)
1 - IR remote control, with batteries
1 - This instruction manual
1 – SVS-Remote Control to RS-232C Adapter
Options (Available separately)
19” Rack Mount Kit
A/V Cables
Caution:
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS FOR AUDIO PRODUCTS.
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT
SAFEGUARDS THAT ARE APPLICABLE TO YOUR EQUIPMENT
1. Read instructions - All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the appliance is operated.
2. Retain instructions - The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.
3. Heed Warnings - All warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.
4. Follow instructions - Follow all operating and use instructions.
5. Water and Moisture - the appliance should not be used near water - for example: near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a
wet basement or near a swimming pool.
6. Ventilation - The appliance should be located so that its location or position does not interfere with proper ventilation. For example: the
appliance should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug or similar surface that may block the ventilation openings.
7. Heat - the appliance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, registers, stoves or other heat-producing appliances .
8. Power sources - the appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as
marked on the appliance.
9. Grounding or polarization. - Precautions should be taken so that the polarization or grounding means of the appliance is not defeated.
Caution: To prevent electric shock, match the wide blade of this plug to the wide slot, fully insert. Do not use this polarized plug with an
extension cord, receptacle or other outlet unless the blades can be fully inserted to prevent blade exposure.
10. Power cord Protection - Power supply cords should be routed so they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or
against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and where they exit from the appliance.
11. Cleaning - Wipe unit with a damp cloth occasionally to keep it looking new. Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents or strong
detergents.
12. Nonuse periods - The power cord of the appliance should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time.
13. Object and Liquid entry - Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.
14. Damage requiring service - The appliance should be serviced by qualified personnel when: the power cord has been damaged, objects
have fallen or liquids spilled into the appliance, the appliance has been exposed to rain, does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a
marked change in performance or the unit has been dropped or the enclosure damaged.
15. Service - The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the operating manual. All other servicing should be
referred to qualified service personnel.
Notice to Users
The system may cause interference to a TV or radio even when it is operating properly. To determine whether the system is
causing the interference, turn it off. If the interference goes away, the system is causing the interference.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be deter-mined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is needed.
• Contact your dealer for help.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two Conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment
2003 by Sima Products Corp.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without
prior written permission from Sima Products Corp.
Page 2
Table of Contents
PACKAGE CONTENTS:........................................................ 1
CAUTION:................................................................................ 2
INTRODUCTION.................................................................... 4
FRONT PANEL ....................................................................... 5
REAR PANEL .......................................................................... 6
IR REMOTE CONTROL, RM-18.......................................... 7
TYPICAL HOOK UP .............................................................. 8
OPERATION.......................................................................... 11
POWER .................................................................................. 11
VIEW INPUTS......................................................................... 11
RECORD INPUTS .................................................................... 11
AUTO SELECT MODE............................................................. 11
VOLUME STABILIZER ACTIVE................................................ 12
VOLUME STABILIZATION ADJUSTMENT................................. 12
HOW IT WORKS .................................................................. 13
SIMPLIFIED BLOCK DIAGRAM OF THE VIEW CHANNEL ..... 13
SIMPLIFIED BLOCK DIAGRAM OF THE RECORD CHANNEL 13
AUTOMATIC INPUT SENSING ................................................. 14
VOLUME STABILIZATION....................................................... 14
VOLUME STABILIZER INPUT / OUTPUT CURVES .................... 14
COMPOSITE TO S-VIDEO TO COMPONENT CONVERSION ........ 15
EXAMPLES OF VIDEO CONVERSION ....................................... 15
DIGITAL AUDIO CONVERSION................................................ 16
ADVANCED INFORMATION............................................. 17
DIP SWITCH SETTING............................................................ 17
IR INPUT ............................................................................... 22
SVS-CONTROL INTERFACE............................................. 18
SVS-CONTROL CONNECTION............................................. 18
VIEW VIDEO COMMANDS..................................................... 19
RECORD VIDEO COMMANDS ............................................... 19
COMPANDER COMMANDS ................................................... 19
IR REAR PANEL INTERFACE .......................................... 22
VALID IR COMMANDS ...................................................... 22
TROUBLE SHOOTING........................................................ 23
TERMS.................................................................................... 23
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS -..................................... 25
LIMITED WARRANTY ....................................................... 27
System Organization Chart .............................................. 30
Page 3
Introduction
Congratulations on purchasing Sima’s Model
VS-712EX, 7 Input Audio / Video Switcher with
Automatic Input Mode (AUTO SELECT) and
Volume Stabilization. It has been designed for
use with Home Theater, DSS Satellite, DVD,
HDTV, Video Games, Audio Recording
Equipment, as well as for background music
applications.
The VS-712EX has the following features:
• High bandwidth, low noise audio / video
switching for today’s high quality systems.
• Seven A/V inputs plus component video
and digital audio to allow you to add more
A/V sources such as DVD, satellite dish,
VCR, HDTV, games and more to your TV
and home theater system.
• Convenient front panel A/V input for
connecting camcorder or digital camera
• Dual A/V outputs - Watch one source on
your TV with your surround sound receiver
and record a different A/V source on your
VCR.
hook-up in systems using composite, SVideo and component video.
• Digital Audio Conversion - simplifies your
hook-up by providing outputs for both
coaxial and optical (Toslink™) audio signals
regardless of the source.
• Automatic Input Mode (AUTO SELECT)
detects and switches to the most recent
active input without manual selection.
Simply turn on your DVD and the VS-712EX
directs the video and audio from this device
automatically to the TV and audio receiver.
• Volume Stabilization - maintains constant
audio volume levels for late night viewing or
when channel surfing. It can also be
adjusted to add impact to older movies by
increasing the dynamic range.
• IR remote control to select a different input
or mode.
• Brightness control - Front panel display
allows you to dim the lights for nighttime
use (via the remote only).
• Video Signal Conversion - Composite
video to S-Video and S-Video to
Component video conversion to simplify
SVS-CONTROL interface to allow the VS-
712EX to be controlled by home automation
equipment. (Adapter Cable included)
Page 4
Front Panel
Figure 1, VS-712EX front panel
Controls
1 - IR Receive Window -
2 - Power / Standby - Press to toggle the
unit between modes. The red Standby
indicator above the button will be lit when
the unit is in Standby Mode.
3 - Record Inputs 1 through 7 - Press to
select the desired input to send to the
record output. The red Record Input
indicator will light to show the currently
selected input.
th
4 - Input Jacks - a 7
set of input jacks.
5 - Volume Stabilizer Active - Press to
turn Volume Stabilizer on or off. The
amber indicator light will be lit next to the
selected adjustment level. Indicator light
is off when the Volume Stabilizer is
bypassed.
6 - Volume Stabilizer Adjustment - This
controls the amount of dynamic range
you want from 10:1 (compressed –
constant audio) to 1:1 setting, (no effect)
to 1:2 (expanded – increased dynamic
range).
7 - View Inputs 1 through 7 - Press to
select the desired input to send to the
VIEW outputs. The green View Input
indicator will light to show the currently
selected input.
8 - Auto Select Mode - Press to turn AUTO
SELECT on or off. When on, the unit will
scan the video inputs and automatically
turn on and switch to the most recent
input device turned on.
Page 5
Rear Panel
Figure 2, VS-712EX rear panel
1 - Composite Video Inputs, 1 through 6 from
the composite video output of your VCR, DSS
or DVD devices.
2 - S-Video Inputs, 1 through 6 from the S-Video
output of your VCR, DSS or DVD devices.
3 - Component Video Inputs 1 through 3 from
the video output of your Cable Box, DSS or
DVD devices.
4 - Left and Right Audio Inputs, 1 through 6
from the audio output of your VCR, DSS or
DVD devices.
5 - Optical inputs for digital audio connect to the
optical output of your DVD, CD player etc.
6 - Coaxial inputs for digital audio connect to
the coaxial output of your DVD, CD player etc.
7 - Optical and coaxial output for digital audio
that connects to the digital audio input of stereo
receiver.
10 – DIP Switch setting to set the default
operation of the unit.
11 - Wired IR Input connect to your home
automation system or Sima SUR-47 Wireless
LCD Touchscreen Remote Control
12 - SVS-CONTROL connect to your home
automation system or PC.
13 – Left and Right Record audio outputs that
connect to the input on your recording
VCR/DVD.
14 - Composite and S - Video Record outputs
that connect to the input on your recording
VCR/DVD.
15 - S-Video and Composite Video View Output
(A&B) that connects to your TV or monitor.
16 – Left and Right Component Video View
output that connects to your TV or monitor
8 - Left and Right audio outputs, A and B that
connects to the audio inputs on your TV, VCR or
surround sound receiver
9 - 15V DC input from the AC wall power supply
Page 6
IR Remote Control, RM-18
Fig. 3, RM-18
The RM-18 IR remote control allows you to control all of the functions available
from the unit’s front panel, with the addition of a DIM setting.
POWER – Toggles between Active and Standby mode.
DIM - Pressing this button cycles through four levels of brightness on the front
panel lights - bright, medium, dim or off. .
VOLUME STABILIZER ACTIVE - Toggles between the Volume Stabilizer
being Active or in the Bypass mode.
AUTO SCAN - Toggles between the Automatic Input Selection mode being on or
off.
INPUT SELECT 1 through 7 - Selects desired View input.
RECORD – Allows the selection of the Record input. Pressing this button once
will cause all of the red Record indicators to light. Pressing INPUT SELECT 1
through 7 within 3 seconds will then set the Record input.
Be sure to install the two AAA batteries in the RM-18 remote before using. Slide the
cover open on the remote in the direction of the arrow and install the batteries as
shown inside the unit.
Page 7
Typical Hook up
Step 1
Connect the AC adapter to 120 VAC and plug the DC cord into the 15 VDC input on the rear of the VS712EX.
Step 2
You will determine how you want to use your system. We have provided two sample hook-up diagrams
to help you determine how to connect the components of your system.
manual as an organizer for your equipment.
Read the following notes before installing the VS712 into your
system.
If you only have composite video signals or only S-Video signals, then use the one type in your
system. If your TV only has composite video inputs, you must use all composite video signals into
the VS-712EX as it will not
convert S-Video signals to composite video.
Note: the VS-712EX does not convert analog audio to digital audio or visa versa.
If you have a combination of standard composite video (RCA type jacks) and S-Video (mini-din
jacks) on your equipment you can only feed one or the other but not both to any given input to the
VS-712EX.
In this case you have several options.
Option 1: For ease of use, the VS-712EX has a composite to S-Video converter. You can feed a
combination of composite and S-Video to the VS-712EX and feed only a S-Video signal to your TV. This
lets you use just one S-Video input on your TV and all sources will automatically be displayed there.
Option 2: If your TV has 2 video inputs that supports both composite video and S-Video inputs, you can
feed both the composite and S-Video outputs from the VS-712EX to your TV. You will have to select the
correct video input on your TV, composite or S-Video. This will give you the best picture quality. Note that
this only works if the composite video and S-Video inputs are two separate
the picture may be blank, black and white or have lines and streaks.
Both the View A and View B outputs are identical. The VS-712EX has buffers to prevent one output from
loading the other output for best system performance.
Note: Most systems have a VHF/UHF cable from an antenna or cable company going into the
VCR and then a VHF/UHF cable between the VCR and TV. This is OK but you still must
connect the A/V cables as shown in figures 5 and 6. Having both the VHF/UHF cable and the
A/V cable would allow you to record a program off of the cable on your VCR (cable input)
while watching a different program/movie from another device (DVD) via the VS-712EX on
your TV via the A/V input.
Don’t forget, you must select the TV’s A/V input (also call video input or line input on some
TV brands) not channel 3 or 4
to view the output of the VS-712EX.
You can use the last page of this
inputs on your TV. Otherwise
Page 8
Fig. 5 - Basic Hook-up #1
Figure 5 below shows a hook-up with only two input sources. This diagram shows only inputs 1 and 2
being used. Be sure you use either S-Video or
The one VS-712EX output goes to the TV so you can watch and listen on your TV. The second output
(audio only) goes to the stereo receiver so you can listen to music or surround sound audio using your
stereo receiver.
composite video inputs, but not both on the same input.
Figure 5, Hook-up in typical system
It would be a typical configuration if you want to watch video on your TV and listen to the audio on TV
or stereo receiver.
Note 1: Use of the S-video output requires TV to have S-video input.
Note 2:Connect L&R audio output to hear audio from TV set with stereo receiver off.
Note: Remember to always connect the outputs on your VCR/DSS/DVD/etc. to the inputs on the VS-
712EX. Likewise, connect the outputs on the VS-712EX to the inputs on the TV/VCR/Receiver/etc..
Note: If you have one or more devices that are not stereo and have a single audio output, you have two
options.
1) Use a “Y” adapter (available from any electronics store) to split the mono signal into two signals to feed
both the Left and Right inputs on the VS-712EX.
2) Use just the left connector for the audio of that source.
Page 9
Fig. 6 - Basic Hook-up #2
Figure 6 below shows a system with 3 input sources. It shows how you can watch video on your TV, listen
on your surround sound receiver and record from the sources plugged into the VS-712EX. It also illustrates
using the dual outputs to record on a VCR, watch the video on the TV and listen to the sound on a surround
system. As shown below, you can record inputs 1, 2 or 3 (not 4 as you would be trying to record to itself)
and record video and audio on the recording VCR from the selected source. This shows how to connect one
of the outputs of the VS-712EX to the Audio and Video inputs on the VCR that you will use for recording.
Figure 6, VS-712EX with recording VCR
Note: Do not select the same input that the recording VCR is connected to (input 4 in this
diagram) while recording or loud feedback could occur. See page 17 to set the Record
Protect Switch to prevent this problem.
Notes:
Remember to select the A/V or AUX input on the recording VCR to record the output of the VS-
712EX.
It is advisable to turn auto input selection off to avoid the VS-712EX from selecting input #4 and
getting feedback.
If you are using a source with s-video then you must use an s-video connection to the recording
VCR and to the television.
Page 10
Operation
When AC power is first applied, all outputs will be muted and all the lights will come on for 1 second
and then go out. The Power / Stand-by light will be lit dim red. The Auto Input and Volume
Stabilization modes will be active as default. When the unit detects an active video input (composite, SVideo, or component video), the Power / Standby light will turn off full and the active input will be
selected.
Power
As long as AC power is not lost, the previous status (last selected input, Volume Stabilizer mode and
AUTO SELECT status) will be resumed when Power / Stand-by is pushed. If AC power was lost, the
unit will default with input #1 (both View and Record) selected, Volume Stabilization on and AUTO
SELECT on.
View Inputs
Pushing a view input button on either the front panel or on the IR remote, will cause the view current
input and associated LED to go off and the new input to come on. If the Auto Input Mode is on, the
selected input will over ride the current input until another input is selected or another input is
automatically detected.
Record Inputs
Pushing a record input button on the IR remote, will cause the current record input and associated LED to
go off and the new input to come on. To set the record input from the IR remote control, first press the
record button on the remote control, which will cause all of the record input LEDs to become lit. Within
3 seconds press the number of the input you wish to direct to the record output.
Auto Select Mode
If the Auto Select Mode is active, the unit will select a video signal from the View video inputs. If a
second input becomes active, the VS-712EX will automatically change to the new input. If you want to
go to another A/V source, simply select the input using the front panel button or the remote. If you don’t
want the VS-712EX to automatically select an active input, turn the AUTO SELECT mode off. Please
note when you activate Auto Select Mode, it scans the inputs when the VS-712EX is on or in the standby mode.
When the unit is in the standby mode, the Power/Standby light will be dim
and all other lights will be off
When a video device is turned on, like a VCR on Input #1, the
Power/Standby LED will turn off, the input corresponding to the device will
turn on, along with the Auto Select LED.
If a second device is turned on (say the DVD player on input #2) the # 2 light
will illuminate and it will be selected and fed to your TV
If the second device is turned off, after about 5 seconds, input #1 will be
selected.
If both devices are turned off, after about 5 seconds, the VS-712EX will turn
off and go into standby mode waiting for an input.
Page 11
Note: If an input goes off and back on in less than 5 seconds, the VS-712EX may not
sense the input change so no input change may occur.
Volume Stabilizer Active
(only on analog audio – no effect on digital audio)
If the Volume Stabilizer Active light is on, then the output of the audio switcher will be routed through
the Volume Stabilizer circuitry. When the Volume Stabilizer Active light is off, the audio signal is
bypassed and the Volume Stabilization setting will not have any affect on the audio signal.
Volume Stabilization Adjustment
Volume Stabilization lets you control the dynamic range of the audio signal to accommodate your needs.
The Volume Stabilizer light must be on for this to function. The numbers show the ratio of the input
signal to the output signal in db. Thus, the setting in the middle (1:1) means that the input signal is the
same as the output signal. Likewise, if you set Volume Stabilization to the 10:1 setting, it means that a
10 db change in the input volume level will result in only a 1 db change in the output level. This will
tend to keep the volume constant even when the sound changes from soft to loud and back to soft.
Setting Description Use
10:1 Maximum compression
maintains constant volume
level by compressing dynamic
range
2:1 Modest compression Making tapes for automotive use
1.3:1 Slight compression Minimal audio compression
1:1 Normal volume fluctuations Just like bypass (VS off)
1:1.3 Slight expansion Adds some impact to audio sources
1:1.7 Moderate expansion Adds moderate impact to audio
1:2 Maximum expansion increases
dynamic range
Hint: If you want the minimal volume changes when changing sources, changing channels or
watching a movie, be sure the Volume Stabilization is set to the 10:1 position and the VS
ACTIVE light is on.
Note: It is normal to notice volume variations even with the VS-712EX set to the 10:1
setting. This is due to the fact the human ear is more sensitive to certain frequencies
and these will tend to sound louder. Some commercials on TV have been modified to
sound louder than the normal program. Although the VS-712EX will not eliminate all
of these volume fluctuations with these types of commercials, it will help a great deal to
keep the volume level constant.
Caution: Very loud sound levels can result when using the 1:2 expansion mode. Keep
your volume levels low to avoid damage to speakers or amplifiers
Watching movies late at night
Background music
Making tapes for airplane use
sources
Restores dynamics to old recordings
Reduces hiss and noise below noise
“floor”
Can “un-do” compression on tapes
made with 2:1 compression
Page 12
How it works
This section has more technical information for the person who wants to learn more about the VS712EX.
In the block diagram below you can see how the audio and video inputs are selected and fed to the
output buffer amplifiers. (Only the left audio channel is shown) Notice how the Volume Stabilizer
Active switch allows you to bypass the Volume Stabilizer circuitry. The diagram also shows how
the selected composite video signal is fed to the composite video output buffer amplifiers and into
the composite to S-Video converter which then feeds the S-Video output.
Simplified Block Diagram of the VIEW CHANNEL
Simplified Block Diagram of the RECORD CHANNEL
Page 13
Automatic Input Sensing
When the AUTO SELECT mode is on, the VS-712EX constantly scans the video inputs, Composite, SVideo, and Component waiting for a video input. When you turn on a device (VCR, DSS, etc.) a
microprocessor in the VS-712EX senses the video input, turns on the VS-712EX (when it is in the standby mode) and selects the input. If a second input occurs, the unit will switch to the new input. If the
second input is turned off, in about 5 seconds, the unit will go back to the first input. If that input goes
off, the unit will turn itself off going back to the stand-by mode in about 5 seconds and wait for an input
to become active. To make the record input also switch with the View input, see the selection DIP
switches on page 17. Note: The Automatic Input Sensing only senses the video signals and not the
audio signals.
Volume Stabilization
The VS-712EX monitors the active audio source and depending upon the setting of the Volume
Stabilization adjustment, constantly changes the volume level smoothly to compensate to input volume
level changes. Let’s say the unit is set to the 10:1 setting. When the input level increases by 10 db, that is
it gets louder, in just a few milliseconds, the VS-712EX reduces the volume by 9 db so the output only
changes by about 1 db. Likewise, if the audio signal gets softer by 10 db, the VS-712EX adds gain to the
signal so it is only reduced by about 1 db. This way, the unit automatically brings up soft dialogue when
watching movies.
The diagram below shows the relationship between an input audio signal and the output audio signal.
Normal output level for most consumer equipment is about -10 dBV (aprox. 250 mV RMS). This is why
all the curves intersect at the -10 dBV point. Looking at the 1:1 line, you can see if an input signal is at
the -20 dBV level (slightly soft volume wise) it will come out also at -20 dBV. There is no change. If
the unit is set for 10:1 compression, the same 20 input will come out at about -11 dBV as
shown in the diagram below. This signal is
boosted about 9 db. Likewise, if the input
signal goes up to 0 dBV, the output will be -9
dBV. For an input change from -20 dBV to 0
dBV (a 20 db change) the output only changed 2
db (-11dbv to -9 dBV). This results in soft
conversations being boosted to a normal level
and loud special effects being reduced to a
normal level.
With the VS-712EX set to 1:2 expansion, if the
input makes the same -20 dBV to 0 dBV change
as above, the output now goes from -30dbv to
+10 dBV. This is a 40 db output change for a 20
db input change. This results in soft sounds,
including tape hiss and soft conversations,
becoming even softer and loud special effects
becoming even louder.
Volume Stabilizer Input / Output Curves
Page 14
Composite to S-Video to Component Conversion
The VS-712EX has special circuitry to convert the composite video inputs to the S-Video outputs and the
composite/s-video signals to component video. The VS-712EX sends the original composite and the
generated s-video signal to both sets of outputs and it takes the s-video signal and generates a component
video signal. However, if you feed the selected input with a s-video signal, the VS-712EX only sends the svideo signal to the output.
Note: Because the up-converted video signal is generated from a lower quality signal, the quality of the converted
signal will not be as good as a true component or S-Video signal. For best picture quality use the original
component, S-Video or composite video signals. In addition, on rare occasions certain manufacture’s TVs are
incompatible with the upgraded video signal, and may result in color loss or other video anomalies.
Whenever a new input channel is selected for viewing, the VS-712EX checks to see which video signals are
present (i.e. Composite, S-Video and component). It does this by switching all the video input switches to
the selected input channel and checking for horizontal sync signals on the Composite, S-Video Y and
component Y inputs. Video up conversion for the view outputs is then configured in accordance with the
signals detected. The view video up conversion configuration is summarized in the following table:
Input Signals Present Video Signal Derivation for View Video Outputs
Composite S-Video YUV* Composite S-Video Component (YUV)
x
x
x x
x
x x
x x
x x x
* Inputs 1, 2 and 3 only
From source Generated from CVBS Generated from CVBS
No Output Present From Source Generated from S-Video
From source From source Generated from S-Video
No Output Present No Output Present From source
From source Generated from CVBS From source
No Output Present From source From source
From source From source From source
Examples of Video Conversion
Video Input Output
Composite
S-Video No Signal
YUV No Signal
Video Input Output
Composite
S-Video
YUV
No
Signal
No
Signal
No
Signal
No
Signal
Page 15
Video Input Output
Composite
S-Video
YUV
No
Signal
Video Input Output
Composite
S-Video
YUV
No
Signal
Video Input Output
Composite
S-Video
YUV
No
Signal
No
Signal
No
Signal
Video Input Output
Composite
S-Video
YUV
Digital Audio Conversion
The VS-712EX converts the coaxial and optical digital audio inputs and sends the signal out both the
coaxial and optical outputs simultaneously. This lets you connect a single digital audio cable (either
optical or coaxial) between the VS-712EX and your receiver and feed the VS-712EX with both coaxial
and optical inputs.
Note: It does not convert the digital signal to analog L+R signals or visa versa.
Note: The volume stabilizer only works on analog L+R signals and does not work on the coaxial
and optical signals.
Page 16
87
Advanced Information
DIP Switch Setting
The DIP switches on the rear panel of the VS-712EX lets you control the default operation of the unit.
The default position of all the switches is in the OFF or up position.
RS-232 Address
00
01
02
03
6
Ignore Front
Off
On
5
Disable IR
4
Off
On
ADCR
321
SVS-CONTROL Address
This lets you set 4 different SVS-CONTROL addresses for the VS-712EX in systems that have multiple units connected on a RS-422/SVS-CONTROL network
Ignore Front
Setting this on disables the front panel buttons. This is useful in professional
installations where you don’t want anyone changing inputs or turning the unit on
or off.
Disable IR
Setting this on disables the front IR detector so the IR remote will no
longer function. This is useful if you are using the SVS-CONTROL or
rear panel IR input to control the VS-712EX and you don’t want the
remote from operating the unit.
A
uto Input Detect Changes RECORD Inputs
Off
On
Record Protect
Off
Ch. 1
Ch. 2
Ch. 3
Ch. 4
Ch. 5
Ch. 6
Ch. 7
This setting lets the unit switch the RECORD input with the VIEW input
in the AUTO SELECT mode.
Record Protect
This tells the VS-712EX which input is tied to your recording VCR. It
then prevents you from selecting it as a recording source so it does not
try to record from itself and cause both audio and video feedback. Set it
to the off position (all three switches up) to turn off this feature.
Page 17
SVS-CONTROL Interface
The SVS-CONTROL interface on the VS-712EX lets you connect the unit to a home automation system and control the
various functions of the unit.
SVS-CONTROL Connection
The specifications of the SVS-CONTROL port are:
9600 baud
1 start, 8 bits, no parity
no handshaking
DB-15, female connector
Here is the pin out of the SVS-CONTROL port on the VS-712EX
Pin Function
1 Ground
3 Transmit
4 Receive
RS232 Command Structure
RS232 commands sent to the VS-712 consist of five bytes: a start character, an address character, a command mode
character, a sub-command character and a command data byte. There is no need to send a carriage return or line feed at
the end of the message. If these characters are sent, they will be ignored. The received message structure is summarized
in the following table:
Start
Character
@ 0
Note that not all command / sub-command / data combinations are valid. See section 7.4 for a summary of all valid
commands.
Address Command Sub-Command Data
S = Setup
1
2
3
V = View
R = Record
C = Compander C = Compander 0 = Off
? = Status Request Any Any
D = Diagnostics D = Diagnostics 0 = Off
S = Standby
A = Auto Select
L = Loop protect
R = Record follows play
P = Front Panel Switches
D = LED Dimmer
E = Every signal
0 = Off
1 = On
1 – 7 = Channel selection
Any (next LED brightness step decreasing)
1 – 7 = Channel selection
1 = On
U = Compander UP
D = Compander Down
1 = On
Page 18
Message Acknowledgement
The VS-712EX will ignore any message that does not begin with the @ character. When the VS-712EX receives an
correctly initiated RS232 message, it will respond with an acknowledgement message, followed by a block of data, as
appropriate. The acknowledgement message consists of 3 bytes (a start character, an address character and a status
character), The message structure is summarize in the following table:
Start
Address Status
Character
$ 0
1
2
0 = Message received OK
1 = Error
2 = Data string follows
Valid RS232 Commands:
All valid RS232 commands are summarized in the following table.
Command Function Expected Response Data
Setup Commands
@*SS0
@*SS1
@*SA0
@*SA1
@*SLn
@*SR0
@*SR1
@*SP0
@*SP1
@*SD?
Set standby off (switch VS-712EX on) None
Set standby on (switch VS-712EX off) None
Set Auto Select mode off None
Set Auto Select mode on None
Set loop protect function to channel n (channels 1 – 7, 0 = off) None
Set record follows play = false in Auto Select mode None
Set record follows play = true in Auto Select mode None
Set front panel switch lock-out = false None
Set front panel switch lock-out = true None
Set LED brightness None
View Video Commands
@*VEn
Record Video Commands
@*REn
Compander Commands
@*CC0
@*CC1
@*CCD
@*CCU
Status Commands
@*???
Set view outputs to channel n (channels 1 – 7) None
Set record outputs to channel n (channels 1 – 7) None
Set compander off None
Set compander on None
Set compander ratio down 1 step None
Set compander ratio up 1 step None
Get VS-712 Status See section 7.5 below
Page 19
Page 20
RS232 Status Response
The returned data format (in response to a status request) takes the following format:
Message header = $*2 as per section 7.3 above (* = RS232 address).
Message data = VE?RE?CS?CL?SD?SL?SS?SA?SR?SP? (where ? represents a numeric value).
Note that the mnemonics are the same as for the received RS232 commands. Message contents are defined in the
following Table:
Mnemonic Meaning Data
VE Currently selected view channel (all MUXes) 1 - 7 = Channel Number
RE Currently selected record channel (all MUXes) 1 - 7 = Channel Number
CS Compander Status 0 = Off
1 = On
CL Compander Level 1 = 10:1 (Compress)
2 = 2:1
3 = 1.3:1
4 = 1:1
5 = 1:1.3
6 = 1:1.7
7 = 1:2 (Expand)
SD Dimmer Status 1 - 4 (1 = Min Level)
SL Currently selected channel for record loop protection 0 = Off
1 - 7 = Channel Number
SA Auto Select mode status 0 = Off
1 = On
SR Record follows play (in Auto Select mode) 0 = Off
1 = Enabled
SP Front panel lock-out status 0 = Front panel enabled
1 = Front panel disabled
IR commands take precedence over front panel key presses. Thus, if an IR command is received at the same time as one
of the front panel buttons is pressed, the IR command will be executed and the button press ignored. However, RS232
commands take precedence over both IR and front panel commands, so if an RS232 command is received at the same
time as an IR command, the IR command will be ignored.
Example:
Unit address: 0
To turn standby mode off: @0SS0
To turn dimmer status to min: @0SD1
Page 21
IR Rear Panel Interface
Valid IR Commands
Function IR Code (Hex)
Set standby on / off (toggle) 0x0000
Set standby on* 0x005D
Set standby off* 0x001C
Set Auto Select mode on / off (toggle) 0x000D
Set Auto Select mode on* 0x001D
Set Auto Select mode off* 0x005C
Set LED brightness to next value (cyclic)* 0x0003
Set view / record outputs to channel 1 0x0014
Set view / record outputs to channel 2 0x0015
Set view / record outputs to channel 3 0x0016
Set view / record outputs to channel 4 0x0018
Set view / record outputs to channel 5 0x0019
Set view / record outputs to channel 6 0x001A
Set view / record outputs to channel 7 0x0054
Record shift (for next channel press) 0x000C
Set compander on / off (toggle) 0x000E
Set compander on* 0x001E
Set compander off* 0x005E
Set compander ratio down 1 step 0x000F
Set compander ratio up 1 step 0x000B
Notes: * = Not on front panel
IR Input
The IR Input jack on the rear panel accepts a standard 3.5 mm (1/8”) jack. The signal level can be between 5 to 12 v
with or without the 38KHz modulation. (Tip = Data, Shield = GND)
Page 22
Trouble Shooting
Problem Solution
Power/Stand-by light does not
come on
Make sure power adapter is plugged into a working outlet.
Stand-by light is dim (normal in stand-by mode)
No video output Is standby light off?
Is input light lit?
Make sure correct input is selected.
Make sure inputs and outputs are not reversed.
No audio output Is standby light off?
Is input light lit?
Make sure correct input is selected.
Make sure inputs and outputs are not reversed.
No input is selected Push STANDBY button so unit is in the ON mode.
Picture is black and white Your TV is using both composite and S-Video inputs. Use
only one or the other to feed into the VS-712EX or into your
TV.
AUTO SELECT does not
detect device when turned on
Is the video cable connected from the device to the VS-
712EX?
Is the device producing a video picture. Some products do
not generate a video signal (just a blue screen) unless the
tape/DVD/etc. is actually playing.
Is AUTO SELECT turned on?
Unit goes to standby after 5
seconds
Volume seems to vary too
much between sources
Normal if there are no video inputs.
Either turn video input on or turn AUTO SELECT off.
Make sure Volume Stabilization is active.
Set Volume Stabilization to the 10:1 setting.
No front panel buttons work Verify power supplied is plugged into a working outlet
Check that rear DIP switch is set for Front Panel Active
IR remote does not work Replace batteries in remote.
Check that rear DIP switch is set for IR Active
A record channel can not be
Check that rear DIP switch is set for Record Loop Protection
selected (LED blinks)
Terms
Term Definition
Component Video High quality video using 3 cables (Y, Pb, Pr) used with DVDs,
DTV and HDTV
Composite Video Standard video signal using RCA style jacks
Compression Reduce the dynamic range of an audio signal by decreasing loud
signals and increasing soft signals.
Db Short for decibels - Measure of relative sound levels . The
smaller change a human ear can hear is about 1 db.
Dbv Measure of absolute voltages. 0 dBV is equal to .775 v rms.
Most consumer equipment operates at about -10 dBV.
Expansion Increase the dynamic range of an audio signal by increasing loud
signals and decreasing soft signals
S-Video Video signal that separates the color signal from the brightness
signal and uses mini DIN connectors.
Page 23
Page 24
Technical Specifications -
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice
Audio
Inputs, (7 stereo)
Input impedance, 47 Kohms
Typical input level, 300 mV
Frequency response 20 to 20KHz, +/- 3db (bypass mode)
Signal to Noise ratio, greater than 80 db
THD less than 0.03% (bypass mode)
Left to right separation, greater than 60 db
Channel to channel separation, greater than 60 db
Outputs, (2 view and 1 record)
Output Impedance, less than 150 ohms
Digital Audio
Inputs
Coaxial (4), 75ohm, 0.5V p-p
Optical (4), TOSLINK style
Outputs
Coaxial (1), 75ohm, 0.5V p-p
Optical (2), TOSLINK style
Video
Input
Composite Video (RCA style phono jack) (7)
75 ohm, unbalanced, 1 v p-p
S-Video (4 pin mini DIN) (7)
Y: 1 vp-p, 75 ohms, unbalanced
C: 0.286 V p-p, burst signal, 75 ohms
Component Video (RCA style phono jack) (3)
(Y,Pb,Pr, 75 ohms unbalanced)
View Outputs
Composite Video (RCA style phono jack) (2)
75 ohm, unbalanced, 1 v p-p
S-Video (4 pin mini DIN) (2)
Y: 1 vp-p, 75 ohms, unbalanced
C: 0.286 V p-p, burst signal, 75 ohms
Component Video (RCA style phono jack) (1)
(Y,Pb,Pr, 75 ohms unbalanced)
Record Outputs
Composite Video (RCA style phono jack) (1)
75 ohm, unbalanced, 1 v p-p
S-Video (4 pin mini DIN) (1)
Y: 1 vp-p, 75 ohms, unbalanced
C: 0.286 V p-p, burst signal, 75 ohms
Power Input: 15 VDC, 500 ma
Page 25
Size: 17” wide, 12” deep, 4” high
Weight: 12 lbs
Page 26
Limited Warranty
Limited Warranty
Sima Products Corp. (“Company”) warrants that is the accompanying product proves to be defective to the
original purchaser in material or workmanship within 90 days from the original retail purchase, the Company
will, at the Company’s option, either repair or replace same without charge (but no cash refund will be made).
What you must do to enforce Warranty
You must deliver, mail or ship the product, together with both the original bill of sale and this limited Warranty
statement as proof of warranty coverage to:
Sima Products Corp.
Att: Customer Service
140 Pennsylvania Ave., Bld. #5
Oakmont, PA 15139
It is recommended that you contact Sima to obtain a return authorization number.
Limitation of Liability and Remedies
Sima shall have no liability for any damages due to lost profits, loss of use or anticipated benefits, or other
incidental, consequential, special or punitive damages arising from the use of, or the inability to use, this
product, whether arising out of contract, negligence, tort or under any warranty, even if Sima has been advised
of the possibility of such damages. Sima’s liability for damages in no event shall exceed the amount paid for
this product. Sima neither assumes nor authorizes anyone to assume for it any other liabilities.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Page 27
NOTES
Page 28
Sima Products Corp.
140 Pennsylvania Ave., Bld. #5
Oakmont, PA 15139 USA
412-828-3700
800-345-7462
412-828-3775 FAX
Visit us at www.simacorp.com
E-mail us at custserv@simacorp.com Manual # 21680, rev A
Page 29
System Organization Chart
Fill in the chart below to help you organize and remember what devices are connected to the inputs and
outputs. Save for future reference.
Inputs From (VCR, DSS, etc.)
#1
Component
Video
Composit
e Video
S-Video L&R
(analog)
audio
Digital audio
Coaxial/Optical
#2
#3
#4
#5
#6
#7
Outputs To (TV, Receiver, etc.)
View A
View B
Record
Component
Video
Composite
Video
S-Video L&R
audio
(analog)
Digital audio
Coaxial/Optical
Page 30
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