StarTech.com ST121SHD50 HDMI Dual Ethernet Cable Extender User Manual

June 12, 2024
StarTech.com

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StarTech.com ST121SHD50 HDMI Dual Ethernet Cable Extender

StarTech.com ST121SHD50 HDMI Dual Ethernet Cable Extender-
product

Product Diagram

Top View

  1. LED Indicator
  2. EDID Copy Button

StarTech.com ST121SHD50 HDMI Dual Ethernet Cable Extender-fig-
\(1\)

  1. LED Indicator
  2. EQ Selector

Rear View

  1. Power Jack
  2. HDMI In

StarTech.com ST121SHD50 HDMI Dual Ethernet Cable Extender-fig-
\(2\)

  1. Power Jack
  2. HDMI Out

Front View

  1. LINK OUT A (RJ-45 Connector)
  2. LINK OUT B (RJ-45 Connector)

StarTech.com ST121SHD50 HDMI Dual Ethernet Cable Extender-fig-
\(3\)

  1. LINK IN A (RJ-45 Connector)
  2. LINK IN B (RJ-45 Connector)

Introduction

The ST121SHD50 HDMI® over CAT5e/6 Video Extender kit lets you extend HDMI® video and audio up to 165 feet (50 Meters)(1080i) over 2 CAT5e Ethernet cables, or up to 130 Feet (40 Meters)(1080p) over 2 CAT6 Ethernet cables. For added versatility both the Transmitter and Receiver can be powered by the same single power source using Power Over Cable (POC). With support for resolutions up to 1920×1080 and the accompanying digital audio, this HDMI® extender is a plug-and-play solution that can easily be installed using new or existing Ethernet infrastructure wiring. Backed by a StarTech.com 2-year warranty and free lifetime technical support.

Packaging Contents

  • 1x HDMI over CAT5e/6 UTP transmitter
  • 1x HDMI over CAT5e/6 UTP receiver
  • 1x universal power adapter (NA / EU / UK / AU)
  • 2x mounting brackets
  • 2x foot pad set
  • 1x instruction manual

System Requirements

  • HDMI® enabled video source device (i.e. computer, Blu-ray Player)
  • HDMI® enabled display device (i.e. television, projector)
  • Available AC electrical outlet for either the transmitter or receiver
  • HDMI® cables for Receiver and Transmitter

LED Indicator

StarTech.com ST121SHD50 HDMI Dual Ethernet Cable Extender-fig-
\(4\)

  • It is suggested to replace cables with better quality ones if the LED emits blue without video displaying.
  • The emitting period of the purple LED depends on the connected device.
  • The LED emits steady blue indicating that the video signal is detected by Receiver.

Installation

Preparing Your Site

  1. Determine where the local video source (i.e. computer, Blu-ray Player) will be located and set up the device.
  2. Determine where the remote display will be located and place/ mount the display appropriately.

NOTE: This HDMI® extender kit features Power over cable, allowing both the Transmitter and Receiver to be powered from a single power source that can be connected at either end of the connection. Please ensure that either the Transmitter or the Receiver Unit is situated near an available AC electrical outlet. Make sure all devices are turned off before beginning installation.

Hardware Installation

  • Install the Transmitter Unit
    • Position the Transmitter Unit near the video source (i.e. Computer, Blu-ray Player).
    • Connect an HDMI® cable from the video source device (i.e. computer, Blu-ray Player) to the “HDMI® IN” on the Transmitter Unit.
    • (Optional) If you’ve chosen to power the kit from the Transmitter side, connect the provided power supply.
  • Install RJ45 terminated Cat5e/6 Ethernet Cables
    • Connect an RJ45 terminated Cat5e/6 Ethernet cable (not included) to the LINK OUT A (RJ-45 connector) on the Transmitter unit.
    • Connect another RJ45 terminated Cat5e/6 Ethernet cable (not included) to the LINK OUT B (RJ-45 connector) on the Transmitter unit.

NOTE: If you are using surface cabling, ensure you have enough Category 5e unshielded twisted pair (UTP) network cabling to connect the Host Unit to the Remote Unit’s location, and that each end is terminated with a RJ45 connector. The cabling should not go through any networking equipment (i.e. router, switch).

OR

If you are using premises cabling, ensure that the Category 5 unshielded twisted pair (UTP) network cabling between the Host Unit and the Remote Unit has been properly terminated in a wall outlet in each location and there is a patch cable long enough to connect the Remote Unit and the Host Unit to their respective outlets. The cabling should not go through any networking equipment (i.e. router, switch).

  • Connect the other end of the Cat5e/6 cable (from LINK OUT A) to the LINK IN A (RJ-45 connector) on the Receiver Unit.
  • Connect the other end of the Cat5e/6 cable (from LINK OUT B) to the LINK IN B (RJ-45 connector) on the Receiver Unit.

NOTE: If using Cat6 cables, extension distance is limited to 40m (130 ft)

  • Install Receiver Unit
    • Position the Receiver Unit near the video display (i.e. television, projector).
    • Connect the video source to the HDMI® OUT on the Receiver Unit using an HDMI® cable.
    • (Optional) If you’ve chosen to power the kit from the Receiver side, connect the provided power supply.
  • Your source video image will now appear on the remote video display.

Operation

Video Adjustment (Receiver Unit Only)

This function allows adjustments in the sharpness of the video image for better clarity. If necessary, adjust the EQ Selector at the Receiver Unit to compensate for cable length. Turn the EQ Selector one notch at one time and wait for 10~12 sec. For HDMI cable length (Rx-to-monitor) less than 8 meters, the selector position is around 0~7 (depending on video resolution). For HDMI cable length (Rx-to-monitor) greater than 8 meters, the selector position is around 8, 9, A~F (depending on video resolution). For example, if using a 1.8M (or 3.0M) HDMI cable, a CAT5 cable, and a display with a resolution of Full HD (1920 x 1080), you may adjust the video according to its CAT5 cable length as follows.

CAT5 Cable Length EQ Selector Position
0M~15M 0,1
15M~25M 1,2
25M~30M 2,3

The following is the test result while using different types of CATx cables

Cable Type                                     Resolution| Cable Length (max.)
---|---
1080i| 50M
1080p| 40M
CAT5                                                 1080i| 50M
(solid)                                                1080p| 20M
CAT5                                                 1080i| 40M
(stranded)                                           1080p| 16M

EDID Configuration

If you are experiencing poor resolution or inconsistent audio or video output, you can specify EDID settings or copy EDID settings using the EDID button.

Auto EDID Configuration

The Transmitter can automatically copy EDID settings from the connected display. In order for this function to work both Link Out A and Link Out B Ports on the Transmitter need to be connected to the Link In A and Link In B Ports of the Receiver via Cat5e/Cat6 Cables.

  1. Connect a Cat5e/Cat6 Cable (sold separately) to the Link Out A port on the Transmitter.
  2. Connect the other end of the Cat5e/Cat6 Cable to the Link In A Port on the Receiver.
  3. Connect a Cat5e/Cat6 Cable to the Link Out B Port on the Transmitter.
  4. Connect the other end of the Cat5e/Cat6 Cable to the Link In B Port on the Receiver.
  5. Connect an HDMI Cable to the Video Out Port on the Receiver.
  6. Connect the other end of the HDMI Cable to the HDMI port on the Display.

Manual EDID Configuration (EDID Copy / EDID Ghost)

  1. Connect a Cat5e/Cat6 Cable (sold separately) to the Link Out A port on the Transmitter.
  2. Connect the other end of the Cat5e/Cat6 Cable to the Link In A Port on the Receiver.
  3. Connect the Universal Power Adapter to the Power Jack on either the Transmitter or Receiver and the other end into a power supply to power the unit.
  4. Connect an HDMI Cable to the Video Out Port on the Receiver.
  5. Connect the other end of the HDMI Cable to the HDMI port on the Display.
  6. On the Transmitter, press the EDID Copy button. Release the EDID Copy button once the LED Indicator flashes green. The LED Indicator will flash green, red, and blue, indicating that the copy was successful.
  7. If the LED Indicator flashes red:
    • The display may not be properly connected to the Video Out Port on the Receiver.
    • The display may not be powered On.
    • The display’s EDID data may not be compatible with the Receiver. Connect a different display.
  8. Correct the issue and repeat Steps 3 to 4 until the LED flashes green & red and then blue.

EDID Factory Default Setting

To avoid confusion about which EDID information has been copied or for more purposes, this function enables resetting the state to factory default.

  1. Follow the instructions in the Hardware Installation section to connect the Transmitter to the Receiver.
  2. On the Transmitter, press the EDID Copy button. Release the EDID Copy button once the LED Indicator flashes red. The LED Indicator will flash green and red indicating that the EDID settings were reset to the factory default settings.

DDC Pass Mode

Press the button for more than 15 sec. and release it right after the LED flashes green. The LED lights are blue indicating the setting successfully. To exit this mode, follow the “EDID Factory Default Setting” steps.

Technical Support

StarTech.com’s lifetime technical support is an integral part of our commitment to providing industry-leading solutions. If you ever need help with your product, visit www.startech.com/support and access our comprehensive selection of online tools, documentation, and downloads. For the latest drivers/software, please visit www.startech.com/downloads

Warranty Information

This product is backed by a two-year warranty. In addition, StarTech.com warrants its products against defects in materials and workmanship for the periods noted, following the initial date of purchase. During this period, the products may be returned for repair, or replacement with equivalent products at our discretion. The warranty covers parts and labor costs only. StarTech.com does not warrant its products from defects or damages arising from misuse, abuse, alteration, or normal wear and tear.

Limitation of Liability

In no event shall the liability of StarTech.com Ltd. and StarTech.com USA LLP (or their officers, directors, employees, or agents) for any damages (whether direct or indirect, special, punitive, incidental, consequential, or otherwise), loss of profits, loss of business, or any pecuniary loss, arising out of or related to the use of the product exceed the actual price paid for the product. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. If such laws apply, the limitations or exclusions contained in this statement may not apply to you.

Hard-to-find made easy. At StarTech.com, that isn’t a slogan. It’s a promise. StarTech.com is your one-stop source for every connectivity part you need. From the latest technology to legacy products — and all the parts that bridge the old and new — we can help you find the parts that connect your solutions. We make it easy to locate the parts, and we quickly deliver them wherever they need to go. Just talk to one of our tech advisors or visit our website. You’ll be connected to the products you need in no time. Visit www.startech.com for complete information on all StarTech.com products and to access exclusive resources and time-saving tools.

StarTech.com is an ISO 9001 Registered manufacturer of connectivity and technology parts. StarTech.com was founded in 1985 and has operations in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan servicing a worldwide market.

FCC Compliance Statement

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 determined 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 the receiver.
  • Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
  • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Use of Trademarks, Registered Trademarks, and Other Protected Names and Symbols

This manual may make reference to trademarks, registered trademarks, and other protected names and/or symbols of third-party companies not related in any way to StarTech.com. Where they occur these references are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent an endorsement of a product or service by StarTech.com, or an endorsement of the product(s) to which this manual applies by the third-party company in question. Regardless of any direct acknowledgment elsewhere in the body of this document, StarTech.com hereby acknowledges that all trademarks, registered trademarks, service marks, and other protected names and/or symbols contained in this manual and related documents are the property of their respective holders.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the StarTech.com ST121SHD50 HDMI Dual Ethernet Cable Extender?

The StarTech.com ST121SHD50 is a dual HDMI over Ethernet cable extender that allows you to extend HDMI signals over long distances using Cat 6 or Cat 7 Ethernet cables.

What is the maximum range of this HDMI extender?

The ST121SHD50 HDMI extender can transmit HDMI signals up to 165 feet (approximately 50 meters) over Cat 6 or Cat 7 Ethernet cables.

Does it support 4K resolution?

Yes, the StarTech.com ST121SHD50 supports resolutions up to 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160) at 30Hz.

Is this extender compatible with lower resolutions?

Yes, the extender is backward compatible with lower resolutions, including 1080p Full HD and lower.

Can it transmit 3D video signals?

Yes, the StarTech.com ST121SHD50 can transmit 3D video signals over the extended HDMI connection.

What type of Ethernet cables does it require?

This extender requires Cat 6 or Cat 7 Ethernet cables for optimal performance and maximum transmission distance.

Does it support audio transmission as well?

Yes, the ST121SHD50 supports audio transmission over HDMI, including multi- channel audio formats like Dolby Digital and DTS.

Does it require an external power source?

Yes, the HDMI extender requires an external power source to function. It comes with power adapters for both the transmitter and receiver units.

Can I use this extender with other HDMI devices, such as gaming consoles and Blu-ray players?

Yes, you can use the ST121SHD50 with various HDMI devices, including gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, laptops, and more.

Does it support HDMI CEC (Consumer Electronics Control)?

The ST121SHD50 does not mention HDMI CEC support in the product specifications.

Is it HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) compliant?

Yes, the extender is HDCP compliant, ensuring secure transmission of protected content.

Can I use it for point-to-multipoint applications?

No, the StarTech.com ST121SHD50 is designed for point-to-point transmission only.

Does the package include the Ethernet cables?

No, the package does not include Ethernet cables; you will need to purchase them separately.

Is it suitable for outdoor use?

No, the ST121SHD50 HDMI extender is designed for indoor use only.

Can I daisy-chain multiple extenders for longer distances?

While some HDMI extenders support daisy-chaining, the ST121SHD50 is not designed for this purpose.

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