KRAMER VS-1211 Vertical Interval Switchers User Manual

KRAMER VS-1211 Vertical Interval Switchers

IMPORTANT: Before proceeding, please read the paragraph entitled “Unpacking and Contents”

ADDENDUM: VS-1211, VS-1011, VS-811, VS-611, VS-411 User Manual

The following section is added to the manual as follows:

Connecting the Balanced/Unbalanced Stereo Audio Input/Output
The VS-12111 has two sets of balanced inputs (IN 1 to IN 12) that create a balanced stereo input (left and right) and two sets of balanced outputs that create a balanced stereo output (left and right), see Figure 4 in the user manual.

1 Although only VS-1211 is mentioned, this section also applies to the VS-1011, VS-811, VS-611 and VS-411 (the user manual also includes the VS- 1201xl, VS-1001xlm, VS-801xlm, VS-601xlm and VS-401xlm to which this addendum does not apply)

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your purchase of this Kramer Electronics switcher.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 video/audio 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 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 video switchers, such as the one you have just purchased, Kramer also offers a full line of high quality industrial and broadcast distribution amplifiers, 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 option information for the following products from the Kramer VS line of video switchers. These VS switchers are similar in operation and features and differ in their audio input and output type.

Balanced Audio Family

• VS-1211- 12×1 composite/single component video & balanced audio switcher.
• VS-1011- 10×1 composite/single component video & balanced audio switcher.
• VS-811- 8×1 composite/single component video & balanced audio switcher.
• VS-611- 6×1 composite/single component video & balanced audio switcher.
• VS-411- 4×1 composite/single component video & balanced audio switcher.

Unbalanced Audio Family

• VS-1201xl- 12×1 composite/single component video & unbalanced audio switcher.
• VS-1001xlm- 10×1 composite/single component video +DA & unbalanced audio switcher.
• VS-801xlm- 8×1 composite/single component video +DA & unbalanced audio switcher.
• VS-601xlm- 6×1 composite/single component video +DA & unbalanced audio switcher.
• VS-401xlm- 4×1 composite/single component video +DA & unbalanced audio switcher.

A Word on Video/Audio Switchers
A video/audio switcher usually switches between several sources (inputs) and one or more acceptors (outputs). A switcher that allows several inputs to be connected to several outputs simultaneously is called a Matrix Switcher. Switchers may be of the electronic or mechanical type. Most matrices are of the active electronic type, with many crosspoints. Vertical Interval Switching, frequently used in video, ensures that the transition from one video source to another (such as switching between two genlocked cameras) is smooth and without interference. The switching and changeover is done during the blanked vertical interval period, when the transition is hidden. Genlocked means synchronized so that the color and phase information from each source is identical. Thus switching is done with no interference, no rolling, no color loss and no jumping on the screen. Since the Syncs come with the same timing, all the information is identical and the transition between one source and the other is smooth. Vertical Interval Switching is needed when recording or transmitting a video program involving several video sources, as in live broadcast, to ensure clean, undisturbed picture transitions. Matrices and switchers may sometimes be RS-232 or RS-485/422 controlled. Each of these options is a way of remotely controlling a video/audio device (switcher, SEG, etc.) using a PC with a serial port, or another device that uses a similar communication protocol. The range consists of several models, having between twelve and four inputs, as indicated by the model name. The audio output is either balanced or unbalanced. Switching is effortless and is performed during the vertical interval of source #1, or of the video available at the external Sync socket. The switchers can be controlled by touch buttons on the front panel, by a PC, via the switcher s’ built-in RS-232 and/or RS-485/422 communication ports, or by contact closure via a remote socket on the back panel. All the models can be interconnected in a variety of ways. For example, two VS-1211 units become 24×1 or 12×2, etc. Three or four VS-1211 units, depending on whether the system is RGB or RGBS, become a 12×1 video component switcher. Finally, the video signal bandwidth is 225MHz (typical), which permits the switchers to be used in the most demanding applications.

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 the highest quality, since “Zero Ohm” connection resistance is the target. Sockets and connectors also must match the required impedance (75ohms in video). Cheap, low-quality connectors tend to rust, thus causing breaks in the signal path.
• Amplifying circuitry – Must have quality performance when the desired 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 neighbouring electrical appliances – These can harm signal quality. Balanced audio lines are less prone to interference, but unbalanced audio and video lines should be installed far from any mains power cables, electric motors, transmitters, etc. even when the cables are shielded.

SPECIFICATIONS

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 this 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 VS switcher package are listed below. Please save the original box and packaging materials for possible future transportation and shipment of the video switcher.

• This User Manual
• Your KRAMER Switcher
• A Power Cord
• KRAMER K-Switch Software for Windows 95/98® (A CD plus Booklet or download from the web) KRAMER Null Modem Adapter Connector
• A Concise Directory of KRAMER Products

Optional Accessories
The following accessories, which are available from Kramer, can enhance the implementation of your amplifier. For information regarding cables and additional accessories, contact your Kramer dealer.

• BNC “Y” Connector – Used for looping purposes and splits the incoming signal to enable connection of an additional machine.
• SP-11 – (Video/Audio Processor) can be serially connected between the video/audio source and the switcher 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 “audiofollow- video”.
• VM-1411 (Video/Balanced Stereo Audio Distribution Amplifier) can be serially connected between the switcher and the acceptors for video and audio distribution. It is a full broadcast, state-of-the-art machine, designed for studio and other applications. The VM-1411 has two inputs, video and audio, each splitting to 5 outputs. The user may select 2 x 1:5 or 1:10 operation via front panel control switches. Several VM-1411 units may be chained through the looping inputs. Output signals are (user-selectable) DC or AC coupled for the highest flexibility. Audio outputs are buffered and isolated from each other, allowing Hi-Fi Balanced audio distribution.
• 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.

KRAMER “VS” SERIES SWITCHERS

This section shows you all of the controls and connections of your switcher. Understanding all of the controls and connections helps you realize its full power. All the switchers described in this manual are equipped with RS-232 Connectors (for PC control) and the connector wiring is described in Figure 1. The Kramer VS-1211, VS-1201xl, VS-1011, VS-1001xlm, VS-811, VS-801xlm, VS-611, VS-601xlm, VS-411 and VS-401xlm Vertical Interval Switchers provide truly effortless switching between twelve, ten, eight, six or four video and balanced/unbalanced audio inputs to one output (video and audio). Switching is done during vertical interval, either of source no. 1 or of the video connected to the external sync socket. The switchers may be controlled in three ways: touch buttons, RS-232/RS-485 and contact closure via a remote socket on the back of the machines. All the units in this line can be interconnected and cascaded, (two VS-1211 machines become 24×1, etc.) The machines may also be operated in parallel (three VS-1211 machines become a 12×3 video component switcher). Video signal bandwidth is 250MHz (typical), allowing the machines to be used in the most demanding applications.

Getting to Know Your Switcher
Most front/rear panel features of the switchers described in this manual are very similar. Therefore, only the VS-1211 and the VS-1201xl are described and they represent the rest of the switchers. The main difference is that the “11” group has snap fit terminal block connectors for balanced audio and the “01xl” group has RCA connectors for unbalanced audio. Front/rear panel features of the VS-1211 and VS-1201xl/VS-1001xlm switchers are described in Figure 2, Table 1 and Table 2.

Table 1: VS-1211/1201/1001xlm Front Panel Features

Table 2: VS-1211/1201/1001xlm Rear Panel Features

INSTALLATION

Rack mounting
Each of the amplifiers included in this manual may be rack mounted in a standard 19” (1U) EIA rack assembly and includes rack “ ears” at the ends of the front panel. (The optional VS-2000 controller requires 2U of rack height, at 3.5″.) These devices do not require any specific spacing above or below the unit for ventilation. To rack mount any of the switchers, simply place the unit’ s rack ears against the rack rails of the rack, and insert standard screws through each of the four corner holes in the rack ears.

CONNECTING TO VIDEO DEVICES

Video sources and output devices (such as monitors, projectors or recorders) may be connected to the switchers through the BNC type connectors located on the back of the unit. Please keep in mind that the input signal format must match that of the output signal format. (Example: If input is Composite video, then output is Composite video.) 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 switcher should be equal in length).

NOTE
The switchers described in this manual are very similar. The connections of the VS-1211 and the VS-1201xl are described and may be applied accordingly to the others.

Connecting To the VS-1211/1201xl/1001xlm
Video sources and output devices connected to the VS-1211/1201xl/1001xlm models support composite/single component video signal types, via BNC connectors.

CONNECTING TO AUDIO DEVICES

Connecting To the VS-1211
Audio sources and output devices (such as amplifiers or recorders) may be connected to the VS-1211 switcher through the snap-fit terminal blocks located on the back of the unit.

Connecting To the VS-1201xl/1001xlm
Audio sources and output devices (such as amplifiers or recorders) may be connected to the VS-1201xl switcher through the RCA-type connectors located on the back of the unit.

DIP SWITCHES, JUMPERS AND TRIMMERS

Consider the VS-1211 as an example of all the switchers in the family. It switches video and balanced stereo audio simultaneously. As mentioned previously, there are three options for operating the switcher. All are available without removing the switcher cover.

• It can be operated by touching one of the front panel switches.
• It can be operated by a remote PC via the RS-232 or RS-485/422 connectors on its rear panel.
• It can be operated using the contact closure option.

DIP Switches
The DIP switch (see Table 3) on the rear panel should be set when the switcher is operated via the RS-232 or RS-485/422 connector, or when it is interconnected with other switchers. These switches allow proper configuration of the control signals received and transmitted through the RS-232 control port. Each of the “VS” switchers allows master/slave configurations. This allows the switchers to operate independently, or in conjunction with each other.

Table 3: DIP Switch Settings

NOTE
The Slave “Reply” settings are all ON or all OFF, depending on the requirements of the system (see detailed configuration in section 12.4-12.6). The Master “Reply” setting is always ON.

Jumpers, their Uses and Set-up Requirements
The switcher has additional adjustments and settings. These include the internal jumpers.

WARNING!
Mains voltage is accessible inside the switcher, so always turn off the switcher and remove its power cable from the main socket before removing its cover. The jumper locations are illustrated in Figure 3, and their functional operation is described below:

• Each switcher input has its internal jumper. In the VS-1211, these jumpers are numbered J21 to J33 and they are factory-located in the position that provides a 75ohm input termination. If the 75ohm termination is not required, the jumper must be relocated to its alternate position (floating on the pin remote from the input socket and not connected in any circuit). The particular input is now “High-Z” (not 75ohm terminated) and may be used for looping.
• When two VS-1211 switchers are to be interconnected to provide a 12 input, 2 output (12×2) configuration by looping Input #1 of switcher #1 to Input #1 of switcher #2, etc., J35 must be located in its alternate position in all of the switchers. This is also the case for configurations 12×3, 12×4, etc., using 3, 4, or more switchers.
• When two VS-1211 switchers are to be interconnected to provide a 24 input, 1 output (24×1) configuration, J35 must be located in its factory set position in all of the switchers. This is also the case for configurations 36×1, 48×1, etc., using 3, 4, or more switchers.
• Jumper J20 is used to define the Sync video source for all the switcher inputs so that Vertical Interval Switching can be assured. The jumpers are factory-located for an External Sync source. If the sync of the video source on Input #1 is preferred, then J20 must be relocated to its alternate position in any one of the switchers.
• When switchers are to be interconnected, the switcher that contains the active video sync source must be identified to all the switchers so that it can be sensed by all of them and thus ensure Vertical Interval Switching throughout. J34 is the jumper to be used for this task. It is a factory located to identify the switcher in which it sits. Thus, in the switcher to which the active sync source will be connected, the jumper must be left in the factory-located position. In all the other switchers in the interconnected complex, J34 must be relocated in its alternate position.

The Internal Trimmers
The trimmers are internally located and are accessed through holes in the switcher base (see section 14.2 “ Weak Switcher Video Signals” ). These allow you, if necessary, to adjust the switcher output signal level and cable compensation.

CONTROLLING THE SWITCHER

The VS-1211/411 and VS-1201xl/401xlm switcher families can be controlled by the following methods:

• By touch buttons on the front panel (see section 12.2 “Operating an Individual Switcher”).
• By direct remote contact closure via the DB-15 socket (a switch panel that the customer rigs up).
• By PC or other remote control via the switcher s’ RS-232 or RS-485/422 connector.

There are three different options for the RS-232 or RS-485/422 remote control:

1. A PC that communicates with the switcher directly.
2. A Serial remote control unit such as the KRAMER VS-2000 or VS-3000 (see section 10.1) or the VS-1N/P (see section 10.2) combination.
3. Any RS-232 or RS-485/422 controller, which is programmed according to the protocol of the switcher (see section 15 “ Protocol Used for VS-1211 Communication”).

The VS-2000 System
The KRAMER VS-2000 is a Programmable Remote Control Unit, designed for use in video production and duplication studios and in live broadcasting and editing configurations. It provides access to and control of up to six groups of KRAMER switchers from a single point. A group can comprise several interconnected switchers which, in turn, permit access to various pieces of equipment (monitors, mixers, editors, VCRs, etc). The VS-2000 can be controlled by pressing its front panel touch buttons, or via a PC using the RS-232 control port. KRAMER PC control software is provided with the BC-2000. Since new switcher types are constantly being added and older types upgraded, KRAMER provides a small door marked “EPROM” on the VS-2000 rear panel for easy replacement of the existing chip with an updated chip. This will contain the appropriate information for the new and modified switchers. KRAMER will make updated chips available periodically. The VS-2000 can store and recall preferred configurations for convenience in studio control.

The VS-1N/VS-1P System
The VS-1N RS-232 Remote Controller interfaces between any KRAMER RS-232 controlled switcher of the VS-1211/411 series, and a remotely located simple switching assembly. By pressing one of the remote switches, a connection command is sent to the switcher via the VS-1N and the RS-232 link. The VS-1N permits remote control of a KRAMER switcher, without interfering with local control by the built-in touch buttons on the switcher itself, and without using a PC. In fact, the VS-1N is a translator, simulating a computer to the switcher via its RS-232 port. It accepts mechanical contact switching from the remote point using a KRAMER VS-1P satellite unit or a switch panel that the customer rigs up himself. The VS-1P is an optional, 24-switch assembly connected to the VS-1N via a 25 wire flat cable, equipped with the appropriate connectors, and may be purchased separately as a small single unit. An alternative option is the VS-1P2, a dual VS-1P unit, in a 19-inch rack configuration. The VS-1N/VS-1P set-up is an ideal remote control for use in video production studios, in live broadcasting configurations, in CCTV and in security applications. The remote connector socket pinout and functional description are shown in Figure 4.

CONNECTING TO A PC

To connect directly to a PC without using the KRAMER Null-Modem Adapter, make connections as in Figure

1. To use the KRAMER Adapter instead (recommended), plug one end into the PC s’ serial port, then connect from the other end to the switcher using a 9-pin flat-cable. Alternatively, connect only pins 2, 3, and 5 from the Adapter to the switcher (one-to-one connection).

New Protocol 2000
All the switcher described in this manual have built-in a dual communication protocol option. The standard protocol described in this manual allows simple and fast control of a single switcher or several machines connected together. The new communication protocol named PROTOCOL 2000, allows the user to control several different switchers or switchers/matrix groups from one screen. The PC software backing up the new protocol is called K-ontrol, allowing viewing and monitoring four different machines, which have protocol 2000 built-in from one screen. The new protocol allows more control over the switchers, but is more complicated than the current protocol supported by the K-Switch software.
The full set of software and documentation is available on the software CD and on Kramer’ s website free for download. The new software package allows the user to install all versions of software suitable for the machine used. For the machines described in this manual, both the K-Switch and the K-ontrol software may be installed.

Changing communication protocols
You can work with one of 2 protocols. To work with PROTOCOL 2000, simultaneously press buttons 1 and 4 on the front panel and turn the machine off for at least 5 seconds. When you turn on the machine, it will use PROTOCOL 2000. Alternatively, you can work with the old protocol. To do so, simultaneously press buttons 1 and 3 on the front panel and turn the machine off for at least 5 seconds. When you turn on the machine, it will use the old protocol.

Additional software options

The latest version of the K-switch program allows the user to convert any of the switchers described in this manual to a very sophisticated sequential switcher with no extra cost. The program allows full control on the switching sequence, dwell time for each input etc. The latest software upgrades are available at Kramer’ s web site: www.kramerelectronics.com at the technical support section.

USING THE SWITCHER

Powering on the Switcher
The switcher 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 switcher while it is powered on. The switcher may be powered on by pressing the toggle switch on the far-left front panel to the up position. In the up position, the toggle switch glows, and the active input button illuminates as well.

Operating an Individual Switcher

NOTE
The operation of all the switchers described in this manual is similar. The VS-1211 operation is described and may be applied accordingly to the others.

Operation of the VS-1211 switcher units by local control is as follows:

1. Connect up to twelve video/audio stereo sources to the input sockets of the switcher.
2. Connect a video/audio stereo acceptor to the output socket of the switcher.

Selecting an Input on the Switchers
Input selection on the switchers described in this manual is simply made by pressing buttons marked “ 1”, “ 2” etc. on the front panel, or by operating your preferred remote device (see “KRAMER Switcher Remote Control Options”). These buttons correspond to the input connections as marked on the back panel.

Selecting the Proper Sync Format
The Sync will be provided from an external video source. If you wish, instead, to use the sync of the video source connected to Input #1, you must make an internal jumper adjustment as described previously (see section 9.2).

Using the VS-2000
Connect, as required, each of the VS -2000 ports to each of the switcher groups. Perform the preset procedure to identify the switchers to the VS -2000 before you activate the system. You can control the switcher groups from the panel touch buttons. You can also control the VS-2000 by a remote computer connected to the “To PC” connector on the VS-2000. You will see on the screen a complex of switchers covering all the switcher groups connected to the VS -2000. You can address and control each of them from the PC.

Using the PC Control Software
The switcher comes with K-Switch control software for Windows 95 and a booklet describing its operation. To operate interconnected switchers via RS-232 and the KRAMER K-Switch software, perform the following steps, in order, before connecting the power cables:

1. Set up the Dipswitch on each switcher under “Table of DIP Switch Settings” ( Table 3, Section 9) and mark them accordingly for future reference.
2. Set up the jumpers as described in “Jumpers, Their Uses and Set-up Requirements” (Section 9.2).
3. Connect the first switcher to the second switcher via their RS-485 communication ports (connect “A” to “A”, and “B” to “B”). Similarly, continue the connection from the second to the third, and so on.
4. Connect the first switcher to the PC’s COM port, via the null-modem adapter provided (see Note below and Figure 1.
5. Make sure that the RS-232 cable is not more than 30 feet long.
6. If several machines are looped, interconnect as described in the relevant section below (12.4, 12.5, 12.6, or 12.7)
7. Connect the power cable of each switcher to the mains and turn them ON.
8. Activate the computer and the KRAMER K-Switch software. Then click the mouse button at the appropriate location on the monitor display to operate all the switchers simultaneously.

NOTE
The KRAMER null-modem adapter is a small plug with two connectors: a DB-9 on one side and a DB-25 or DB-9 on the other. We provide it with all switchers that have RS-232 ports. It interfaces between the DB-9 connector on the switcher and the connector on the PC. Its function is to convert the PC output to a null-modem output and permit two way communication between the switcher and the PC. This is effected by the interconnections within the plug.

Adding Outputs
Two VS-1211 switchers may be interconnected to function as a 12×2 switcher by connecting the same numbered sources to the same numbered inputs of both switchers. However, before doing so, each switcher input has an internal jumper that must be properly set up to avoid double loading. Proceed as follows:

1. After disconnecting the switcher from the mains voltage, carefully remove the cover of the first switcher that is to receive the source signals, remove jumpers J21 to J33 (for VS-1211) and relocate them in their alternate positions (floating on the pin remote from the input socket and not connected in any circuit).
2. The input impedance of each input is now “High-Z” (not 75ohm terminated) and is therefore suitable for this application. In the second switcher, the terminating jumpers stay in place, providing 75ohm terminations. Thus, you do not have to open the second switcher. Carefully close the first switcher.
3. Connect the output from video source #1 to the first switcher input #1, then to the second switcher input #1 using a T or Y connector. Repeat for source #2 and input #2, etc.
4. Connect one acceptor to the output of one switcher and another acceptor to the output of the other switcher. You now have a twelve-input switcher complex with two outputs.
5. You can continue to expand the number of outputs by adding a third switcher, etc., to obtain a 12×3 switcher, etc. In such cases, relocate to their alternate position, all input jumpers in all switchers except the last, so that all the lines are properly terminated by 75ohm. Audio can be connected similarly, but you do not have to open switchers and remove jumpers, just connect the wires from audio input to audio input. There is no need for special termination since the input impedance is high.
6. For RS-232 control of the system, connect the PC to the Master switcher via the null modem adapter.
7. Each switcher in the configuration should be allocated a unique machine number and the “Reply” option should be set to ON (see Table 3: DIP Switch Settings). Jumper J35 should be relocated to its alternate position.
8. The system may also be controlled via its RS-485 port (see section 12.3 above).

A typical switcher setup where additional outputs are added is described in Figure 5.

Adding Inputs

Two or more VS-1211 switchers can be interconnected to function as a 24×1 or a 36×1 etc., switcher as follows:

1. Make sure that jumper J35 in at least one of the switchers is in its factory-located position (See Figure 3). If necessary, carefully remove the covers of the switchers to do so.
2. Connect a straight, 9-wire flat cable from the “To Next” DB-9 connector on the first switcher to the “To Next” DB-9 connector on the second switcher, from the second to the third and so on, until all the required switchers are interconnected. Make sure that the interconnecting lengths of the cable are as short as possible.
3. Interconnect the switchers via their RS-485 ports (“A” to “A”, “B” to “B”, etc.).
4. Assign a unique machine number to each of the switchers. Set DIP switches as in “Table of DIP Switch Settings” (see section 9).
5. On all the units, set the Dipswitch “Reply” option to ON.
6. To feed the sync information from one of the units to all the others, interconnect the units via their “To Next” connectors using a flat cable. In this case, jumper J34 must be set in its factory-located position in the unit with the Sync source, but in its alternate position in the others.
7. For RS-232 control of the system, connect the PC to the Master switcher via the null modem adapter. Each switcher in the configuration should be allocated a unique machine number and the “Reply” option should be to “ ON” (see Table 3, “Table of DIP Switch Settings”). The system may also be controlled via RS-485.
8. Connect the sources to the appropriate switcher inputs.
9. Connect the power cable of each switcher to the mains supply and turn ON each switcher.
10. You now have a 24 or 36, etc. input switcher complex, with one output.

Video Component and YC Switching
A most important application for interconnected switchers is in professional component video switching, where smooth switching is required, free from transient effects. Four switchers of the same type are required for RGBS systems, three for RGB or YUV systems and two for YC systems. The following describes how to set up the RGB video component application with five professional video sources, each with Red, Green and Blue (RGB) outputs (Sync on Green).

NOTE
In the following description, “R”, “G”, “B” refers to three different switchers required for the RGB implementation.

1. Interconnect three, same model switchers of the VS-1211 family via their RS-485 ports (“A” to “A”, “B” to “B”, etc.).
2. On all the units except one, set the Dipswitch “Reply” option to OFF.
3. Set all the switchers to the same Machine number (Dipswitch).
4. If RS-232 control is required, connect the PC via the null modem adapter to the unit in which the “Reply” option is set to ON (the system may also be controlled via RS-485).
5. To synchronize the machines (for vertical interval switching) to input#1 of the G unit, daisy-chain from G s’ input #1 to the ext. sync input of R and continue to the ext. sync input of B (using “T” connectors). Place the following jumpers in their alternate positions: J22 and J20 in the G unit and J21 in the R unit. Also, ensure that the following jumpers are in their factory default positions: J34 in all the units; J20 in the R and the B units; and J21 in the B unit. To synchronize using an external sync signal, configure R and B as described above, but this time daisy chaining from G s’ ext. sync. Connect the external sync to G and set G s’ jumper J20 and J22 to their factory default positions and J21 to its alternate position.
6. Now connect the R, G and B outputs of camera #1 to input #1 on each of the switchers respectively, those of camera #2 to input #2 on each of the switchers respectively, and continue until all five camera R, G and B outputs have been connected to the appropriate switcher inputs, in the same order. Let us call them switchers R, G and B.
7. Connect the single outputs of switchers R, G and B to the R, G and B inputs, respectively, of a professional acceptor, such as a monitor or VCR.
8. Turn the power ON and select the input number to be switched to the acceptor.

Controlling Several Independent Switchers Via a Single PC Port

1. Assign unique machine numbers to each switcher.
2. Connect via the null modem cable from the PC to the “Master” machine.
3. Interconnect the switchers via their RS-485 ports (“A” to “A”, “B” to “B”, etc.).

TAKING CARE OF YOUR SWITCHER

Do not locate your switcher 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 switcher where temperature and humidity may be excessive. Do not clean your switcher 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.

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

Video Signal

Audio Signal

Software

Control

Switching Malfunctions

Vertical Interval

PROTOCOL USED FOR VS-1211/1201xl COMMUNICATION

The protocol used for communication between the PC and the Master VS-1211/1201xl is defined as follows:

Where:
N7 is used for communication between the Slave and the Master only and is always 0 for communication with the PC. N6N5N4 is the binary value of the Machine we are addressing minus one, e.g., if we wish to address the Master (Machine 1 by definition), then N6N5N4 = 000, if we wish to address Machine 6, then N6N5N4 = 101. N3N2N1N0 is the binary value of the input to be selected, i.e. N3N2N1N0 = 0111 is equivalent to pressing switch 7 on the front panel.

Several special codes are also valid:

• N3N2N1N0 = 1101 requests that the Machine being addressed sends its present status to the PC, i.e. which input is selected on its front panel.
• N3N2N1N0 = 1110 is an “OK” handshake, i.e. confirmation that the instruction was received by the addressed Machine. (If the addressed Machine is not present, then this confirmation is not sent to the PC).

Information sent from the Master to the PC is done using the same format, i.e .:

The rate of data transfer is always 9600 baud, with no parity, 8 data bits and 1 stop bit.

LIMITED WARRANTY

Kramer Electronics (hereafter Kramer) warrants this product to be free from defects in material and workmanship under the following terms.

HOW LONG IS THE WARRANTY
Labor and parts are warranted for three year from the date of the first customer purchase.

WHO IS PROTECTED
Only the first purchase customer may enforce this warranty.

WHAT IS COVERED AND WHAT IS NOT COVERED
Except as below, this warranty covers all defects in material or workmanship in this product. The following are not covered by the warranty:

1. Any product which is not distributed by Kramer or which is not purchased from an authorized Kramer dealer. If you are uncertain as to whether a dealer is authorized, please contact Kramer at one of the agents listed in the web site www.kramerelectronics.com.
2. Any product, on which the serial number has been defaced, modified or removed.
3. Damage, deterioration or malfunction resulting from:
   • Accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, fire, water, lightning or other acts of nature, unauthorized product modification, or failure to follow instructions supplied with the product.
   • Repair or attempted repair by anyone not authorized by Kramer.
   • Any shipment of the product (claims must be presented to the carrier).
   • Removal or installation of the product.
   • Any other cause, which does not relate to a product defect.
   • Cartons, equipment enclosures, cables or accessories used in conjunction with the product.

WHAT WE WILL PAY FOR AND WHAT WE WILL NOT PAY FOR
We will pay labor and material expenses for covered items. We will not pay for the following:

1. Removal or installation charges.
2. Costs of initial technical adjustments (set-up), including adjustment of user controls or programming. These costs are the responsibility of the Kramer dealer from whom the product was purchased.
3. Shipping charges.

HOW YOU CAN GET WARRANTY SERVICE

1. To obtain service on you product, you must take or ship it prepaid to any authorized Kramer service center.
2. Whenever warranty service is required, the original dated invoice (or a copy) must be presented as proof of warranty coverage, and should be included in any shipment of the product. Please also include in any mailing a contact name, company, address, and a description of the problem(s).
3. For the name of the nearest Kramer authorized service centre, consult your authorized dealer.

LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited in duration to the length of this warranty.

EXCLUSION OF DAMAGES
Kramer’s liability for any defective products is limited to the repair or replacement of the product at our option. Kramer shall not be liable for:

1. Damage to other property caused by defects in this product, damages based upon inconvenience, loss of use of the product, loss of time, commercial loss; or:
2. Any other damages, whether incidental, consequential or otherwise. Some countries may not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations and exclusions may not apply to you.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from place to place.

NOTE: All products returned to Kramer for service must have prior approval. This may be obtained from your dealer.

NOTICE
This equipment has been tested to determine compliance with the requirements of:

• EN-50081: “Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC); generic emission standard. Part 1: Residential, commercial and light industry”
• EN-50082: “Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) generic immunity standard. Part 1: Residential, commercial and light industry environment”.
• CFR-47 FCC Rules and Regulations: Part 15- “ Radiofrequency devices: Subpart B- Unintentional radiators

CAUTION

• Servicing the machines can only be done by an authorized Kramer technician. Any user who makes changes or modifications to the unit without the expressed approval of the manufacturer will void user authority to operate the equipment.
• Use the supplied power cord to feed power to the machine.
• Please use recommended interconnection cables to connect the machine to other components.

For the latest information on our products and a list of Kramer distributors, visit our Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com. Updates to this user manual may be found at http://www.kramerelectronics.com/manuals.html. We welcome your questions, comments and feedback.

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
Website: www.kramerelectronics.com E-mail: [email protected] P/N: 2900-002002 REV 2

References

• Kramer | Audio-Visual Solutions and Experiences
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