1. Introduction
The OREI BK-21A is an advanced 8K HDMI 2.1 Switch designed to seamlessly switch between two HDMI 2.1 input devices to a single HDMI output display. This device supports high-resolution video up to 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, and 1080p@240Hz, making it ideal for modern gaming and streaming setups. It features 48Gbps bandwidth and is compliant with HDMI 2.1 and HDCP 2.3 standards, ensuring compatibility with the latest content and devices. Additionally, the BK-21A offers audio extraction capabilities through optical and L/R ports, supporting a wide range of audio formats for an enhanced audio experience. Easy switching is facilitated via a button on the unit or the included IR remote control, with an auto-switching function for convenience.
Image 1.1: OREI BK-21A highlighting key features including 2-to-1 HDMI switching, audio extraction, 4K@120Hz video resolution, and HDMI 2.1/HDCP 2.3 compliance.
2. Package Contents
Please check the package contents upon opening to ensure all items are present:
- 1x OREI BK-21A 8K HDMI 2.1 Switch
- 1x IR Remote Control
- 1x 5V/2A Power Supply
- 1x User Manual
Image 2.1: Visual representation of the OREI BK-21A package contents, including the switch, power supply, remote control, and user manual.
Unboxing Video
Video 2.1: An unboxing video demonstrating the contents of the OREI BK-21A package and providing an initial overview of the device.
3. Product Overview
The OREI BK-21A features a compact and durable metal enclosure designed for efficient heat dissipation and interference reduction. Understanding the layout of its front and rear panels is crucial for proper setup and operation.
Front Panel
- IR Window: Receives signals from the included IR remote control. Ensure it is unobstructed.
- Power Indicator: Illuminates when the device is powered on and passes its internal self-test.
- IN 1/IN 2 Indicators: Light up to confirm a solid HDMI connection from input devices.
- OUT Indicator: Lights up to confirm a solid HDMI connection to the display.
- AUTO Indicator: Illuminates when the switch is in auto-switching mode.
- SWITCH Button: Manually cycles through HDMI input sources.
- EDID Switches: Used to adjust resolution and frame rate settings for compatibility with various displays. Refer to the user manual for specific configurations.
- SERVICE Port (Micro USB): Used for firmware updates. Connect to a computer with a Micro USB to USB-A cable.
Image 3.1: Front view of the OREI BK-21A, showing the IR window, power/input/output/auto indicators, switch button, EDID switches, and service port.
Rear Panel
- IN 1/IN 2 (HDMI 2.1): Connect your two HDMI source devices (e.g., gaming consoles, streaming boxes).
- OUT (HDMI 2.1): Connect to your display device (e.g., TV, monitor).
- OPTICAL (SPDIF OUT): Optical audio output for connecting to an amplifier or soundbar.
- L/R (3.5mm Audio Out): Analog stereo audio output for connecting to speakers or an amplifier.
- DC 5V: Power input port. Connect the included 5V/2A power adapter here.
Image 3.2: Rear view of the OREI BK-21A, illustrating the HDMI input/output ports, optical and L/R audio outputs, and DC power input.
4. Setup
Follow these steps to set up your OREI BK-21A HDMI switch:
- Connect HDMI Input Devices: Use high-quality HDMI 2.1 cables (under 30 feet for optimum performance) to connect your two source devices (e.g., PS5, Xbox Series X, Blu-ray player, PC) to the IN 1 and IN 2 ports on the rear panel of the BK-21A.
- Connect HDMI Output Display: Use another high-quality HDMI 2.1 cable to connect your display (TV or monitor) to the OUT port on the rear panel of the BK-21A.
- Connect Audio Output (Optional): If you wish to extract audio, connect your amplifier or soundbar to either the OPTICAL (SPDIF OUT) port or the L/R (3.5mm Audio Out) port. Ensure your audio receiver supports the selected audio format.
- Connect Power: Plug the included 5V/2A power adapter into the DC 5V port on the rear panel, then plug the adapter into a standard wall outlet. The power indicator on the front panel will light up after an internal self-test.
- Verify Connections: The IN 1, IN 2, and OUT indicators on the front panel will light up to confirm successful connections.
Image 4.1: Diagram illustrating the connection of two HDMI input sources and one HDMI output display to the OREI BK-21A, with optional audio extraction.
5. Operating Instructions
The OREI BK-21A offers flexible control options for switching between your connected devices and managing audio settings.
Switching Inputs
- Manual Switching: Press the SWITCH button on the front panel of the device to cycle between HDMI Input 1 and HDMI Input 2. The corresponding IN indicator will light up.
- IR Remote Control: Use the included IR remote control to directly select Input 1 or Input 2. Point the remote towards the IR window on the front panel.
- Auto Switching: The device supports automatic input switching, which will switch to the last active source. The AUTO indicator will light up when this mode is active.
Audio Extraction
The BK-21A can extract audio from the HDMI signal and output it through dedicated ports:
- Optical (SPDIF OUT): Provides digital audio output. Supports LPCM, Dolby Digital/Plus/EX, Dolby True HD, DTS, DTS-EX, DTS-96/24, DTS High Res, DTS-HD Master Audio, DSD. Note: Optical output is limited to 5.1ch.
- L/R (3.5mm Audio Out): Provides analog stereo audio output. Limited to PCM 2ch.
Ensure your source device is configured to output audio in compatible formats for the selected audio output port.
EDID Management
The EDID switches on the front panel allow for advanced management of Extended Display Identification Data. This feature helps ensure optimal compatibility between your source devices and display by adjusting the resolution and frame rate. Refer to the detailed instructions in the user manual for specific EDID settings based on your setup requirements.
Product Features Video
Video 5.1: A video highlighting the key features and functionalities of the OREI BK-21A, including 4K@120Hz support and audio extraction.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| HDMI Version | HDMI 2.1 |
| HDCP Compliance | HDCP 2.3 |
| Video Resolution Support | Up to 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, 1080p@240Hz |
| Bandwidth | 48Gbps |
| HDR Support | HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG Pass Through |
| Audio Formats (HDMI) | LPCM, Dolby Digital/Plus/EX, Dolby True HD, DTS, DTS-EX, DTS-96/24, DTS High Res, DTS-HD Master Audio, DSD |
| Audio Formats (Optical) | LPCM 2/5.1 Channels, Dolby Digital 2/5.1 Channels, DTS 2/5.1 Channels, PCM 2.0 |
| Audio Formats (L/R) | Stereo Only (PCM 2ch) |
| Switching Methods | Manual button, IR Remote, Auto Switching |
| EDID Management | Advanced EDID switches for resolution/frame rate adjustment |
| Power Supply | DC 5V/2A |
| Enclosure | Heavy-duty cool metal enclosure |
| Dimensions | Length: 5.7", Width: 2.7", Height: 0.67" |
| Weight | 0.57 pounds (approx. 1.05 lbs shipping weight) |
Image 6.1: Technical specifications and compact dimensions of the OREI BK-21A 8K HDMI 2.1 Switch.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your OREI BK-21A, please refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Video Signal:
- Ensure all HDMI cables are securely connected to both the source devices, the switch, and the display.
- Verify that the correct input source is selected on the BK-21A (check IN 1/IN 2 indicators).
- Check the power supply connection and ensure the power indicator is on.
- Try using different HDMI cables, especially certified HDMI 2.1 cables, as cable quality can affect high-resolution signals.
- Adjust the EDID switches on the front panel to a compatible setting for your display.
- Bypass the switch and connect the source directly to the display to confirm the source and display are working correctly.
- No Audio Output:
- Ensure your audio system is correctly connected to the OPTICAL or L/R audio output ports.
- Verify that your source device is configured to output audio in a format compatible with the selected audio output (e.g., LPCM for L/R output, or a supported digital format for Optical).
- Check the volume levels on your audio system and source device.
- Remote Control Not Working:
- Ensure there are no obstructions between the remote control and the IR window on the front panel of the switch.
- Check and replace the remote control battery if necessary.
- Resolution/Refresh Rate Issues:
- Ensure your HDMI cables are rated for HDMI 2.1 and support the desired resolution and refresh rate (e.g., 4K@120Hz).
- Adjust the EDID switches on the front panel to match the capabilities of your display and source.
- Confirm your display and source device settings are configured for the desired resolution and refresh rate.
8. Warranty & Support
The OREI BK-21A 8K HDMI 2.1 Switch comes with a 1-Year Manufacturer's Warranty. For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact OREI support.
- Manufacturer Contact Information: info@orei.com
- Online Support: Visit the OREI website for FAQs and additional resources.
Note: Do not update the firmware before consulting OREI support.
