The examples below detail the building of RGB matrices. The same principles may be used for YC (2
switchers), YUV (3 switchers), RGBS (4 switchers), and RGBHV (5 switchers).
10.2.1 RGB/YUV Switching with RS-232 (e.g. PC Control)
For RS-232 control of the component matrix switcher, an additional piece of equipment would be required.
Since RS-232 can only be used for control between 2 pieces of equipment (e.g. a PC and a switcher), we need a
method of “distributing” the RS-232 to all 3 machines. The CVG-14 “RS-232 Port Extender” is designed for
this purpose.
Perform the following steps (as necessary):
1. Connect the RGB sources to the VIDEO INPUTS connectors of the Matrix Switchers, connecting the “R”
components to Matrix Switcher #1, “G” to #2, and “B” to #3. Make sure that each component of a video
source is connected to the same input number on the three switchers.
2. Similarly, connect the RGB acceptors to the VIDEO OUTPUTS connectors of Matrix Switchers #1 to #3.
3. If the video sources are synchronized, and vertical interval switching is desired, connect sync sources to all
3 machines, and select to work with “Ext. Sync” (selector switch pressed in).
4. Assign all 3 machines as machine number #1 (see Table 3: “DIP Switches Configuration" for more
information).
5. Set DIP switch #5 (Reply) of the first machine to "ON". Set to "OFF" for the other machines.
6. Set DIP switch #8 of all the machines to "ON" (RS-232 communication between switchers and external
controller).
7. Connect the serial port of the PC to a port on the CVG-14, and connect each switcher to a CVG-14 port.
Configure the DIP-switches of the CVG-14 for the 4 ports which were connected.
8. Operate the Matrix Switchers, PC, CVG-14, RGB sources and RGB acceptors
9. The inputs can now be switched to the outputs. This is done via the front panel switches of the first
switcher, and/or via the PC.
10.2.2 RGB/YUV Switching with RS-485 Control (or no External Control)
Communication between the switchers is implemented via RS-485, which could also be extended to an external
controller.
Perform the following steps (as necessary):
1. Repeat steps 1-3 of section 10.2.1.
2. Connect the RS-485 terminal block connectors of all the Matrix Switchers in parallel using RS-485 cable,
and connect to also an external controller if required.
3. Assign all the machines with the same machine number - but NOT machine #1 - using the DIP switches
located at the back of the machine, (as described in Table 3: “DIP Switches Configuration").
4. NOTE: The machines are all assigned as slaves having the same machine number. A master machine is
not assigned.
5. Set DIP switch #4 (RS-485 termination) of the third machine to "ON" and of the second machine to
"OFF". If an RS-485 external controller is connected, then DIP switch #4 of the first machine should be set
to "OFF"; if no external controller is used, set this switch to "ON".
6. Set DIP switch #5 (Reply) of the first machine to "ON". Set to "OFF" for the other machines.
7. Operate the Matrix Switchers, controller (if used), RGB sources and RGB acceptors.
8. The inputs can now be switched to the outputs. This is done via the front panel switches of the first
switcher, and/or via the external controller.
11 TAKING CARE OF YOUR MATRIX SWITCHER
Do not locate your Matrix Switcher in an environment where it is susceptible to dust or moisture. Both of these
may damage the electronics, and cause erratic operation or failure. Do not locate your Matrix Switcher where
temperature and humidity may be excessive. Doing so may also damage the electronics, and cause erratic
operation or failure of your Matrix Switcher. Do not clean your Matrix 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.