ViewHD Prosumer UHD HDMI 4x1 Switch with Audio Extraction

1. Introduction

The ViewHD Prosumer UHD HDMI 4x1 Switch with Audio Extraction (Model VHD-U4X1AS) is an advanced HDMI video and audio product designed for home theater applications. This high-performance 4K switch supports 4K@60Hz, 18Gbps, HDR, and Dolby Vision, along with ARC functionality. It is engineered to provide versatile connectivity and audio extraction capabilities, particularly useful for integrating newer HDMI 2.0 displays with older HDMI 1.x audio receivers.

This manual provides essential information for the correct installation, operation, and maintenance of your VHD-U4X1AS unit. Please read it thoroughly before use.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

• 1x VHD-U4X1AS Main Unit
• 1x 100V-240V AC to DC 5V Power Adapter
• 1x IR Remote Control
• 1x User Manual (this document)
• 2x Mounting Brackets

Image: Contents of the VHD-U4X1AS package, including the main unit, remote, power adapter, and manual.

3. Product Features

• Supports HDMI V2.0b, 4K@60Hz, 18Gbps, HDR, and Dolby Vision.
• Features two HDMI outputs:
• Output A: HDMI V2.0b, designed for direct connection to 4K displays. Supports CEC.
• Output B: Primarily for audio extraction to HDMI V1.3/V1.4/V2.0 audio receivers. Can also function as an HDMI V1.4 4x2 switch/splitter for video up to 4K@30Hz. If the input signal is HDMI V2.0, Output B will carry only the audio signal, with video displaying a 720P blue screen. Does not support CEC.
• Three audio output options:
• HDMI Output B: Supports HDMI v1.3/v1.4/V2.0 receivers.
• Optical TOSLINK: Supports audio formats up to Dolby Digital 5.1CH and Dolby Digital Plus.
• 3.5mm Headphone Jack: Suitable for stereo audio.
• HDMI Output B and TOSLINK support ARC (Audio Return Channel) simultaneously, with ARC audio supporting DD5.1CH format (not DD+). The 3.5mm port does not support ARC.
• Input auto-switching function based on input power sensing, which can be enabled or disabled.
• Five custom audio EDID settings for various audio applications.
• Embedded timing skews on inputs to improve compatibility with diverse HDMI sources.
• Full metal jacket construction for durability.
• Operable via IR remote control.
• Does not support VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), as these are HDMI 2.1 features. This model is HDMI 2.0b.

4. Connections and Setup

Follow these steps to connect your VHD-U4X1AS switch:

1. Connect HDMI Sources: Connect up to four HDMI source devices (e.g., Blu-ray player, gaming console, streaming device) to the HDMI Input ports (Input 1-4) on the VHD-U4X1AS unit.
2. Connect HDMI Output A: Connect an HDMI cable from the HDMI Output A port on the VHD-U4X1AS to your 4K display (TV, projector). This output is designed for optimal video quality up to 4K@60Hz.
3. Connect HDMI Output B (Audio Receiver): Connect an HDMI cable from the HDMI Output B port on the VHD-U4X1AS to an HDMI input on your audio receiver or soundbar. This output is primarily for audio. If the input signal is HDMI 2.0, Output B will only carry audio, and the video will be a 720P blue screen. Ensure it is connected to a regular HDMI input, not an HDMI ARC port, on your receiver/soundbar.
4. Connect Optical Audio (Optional): For optical audio output, connect a TOSLINK cable from the Optical port on the VHD-U4X1AS to your audio system.
5. Connect 3.5mm Audio (Optional): For stereo audio output, connect a 3.5mm audio cable from the 3.5mm port on the VHD-U4X1AS to your audio system.
6. Connect Power: Connect the provided 5V DC power adapter to the DC 5V input port on the VHD-U4X1AS, then plug the adapter into a power outlet.

Image: Diagram illustrating typical connection setup for the VHD-U4X1AS unit.

5. Operation

5.1 Input Switching

Inputs can be switched manually using the buttons on the unit or the IR remote control. The unit also features an input auto-switching function.

• Manual Switching: Press the 'Input' button on the front panel or use the corresponding input buttons on the remote control to select your desired source.
• Auto Switching: The auto-switching function is based on input power sensing. It can be enabled or disabled. Not all HDMI sources are compatible with this feature.

How to test HDMI source compatibility with auto-switching:

1. Connect two HDMI sources (A and B). Connect Source A to Input 1 and Source B to Input 2.
2. Power up Source A and select Input 1 on the switch.
3. Power up Source B. If the switch automatically switches from Input 1 to Input 2, then the switch supports input auto-switching.
4. To test if a specific HDMI source is compatible with the auto-switching function: With both A and B active and the switch on Input 2 (Source B), power off Source B (meaning it enters standby/sleep mode, not fully unplugged). If the switch automatically jumps from Input 2 to Input 1, then Source B is compatible. Otherwise, it is not.

Image: Explanation of HDMI Input Auto Switching Function.

5.2 Audio EDID Settings

The unit features 5 different custom audio EDID settings. These settings allow you to optimize audio output for various receiver types and audio formats. Refer to the detailed user manual for specific configurations and their effects.

5.3 ARC Functionality

The HDMI Output B and Optical TOSLINK ports support Audio Return Channel (ARC). This allows audio from your display (connected to Output A) to be sent back to your audio receiver via Output B or the Optical port. ARC audio supports Dolby Digital 5.1CH format but does not support Dolby Digital Plus. The 3.5mm port does not support ARC.

5.4 CEC Functionality

HDMI Output A supports CEC (Consumer Electronics Control), allowing connected devices to communicate and control each other. HDMI Output B does not support CEC to prevent potential conflicts or confusion in multi-device setups.

6. Important Considerations

6.1 Understanding 4K Specifications

There are two primary kinds of 4K HDMI versions:

• HDMI v1.4: Supports up to 4K@30Hz and HDCP 1.4. It does not support HDR.
• HDMI v2.0 (or v2.0b): Supports up to 4K@60Hz and HDCP 2.2. It supports HDR and Dolby Vision.

To fully utilize 4K HDR displays, ensure your equipment and cables are compatible with HDMI v2.0. Many newer 4K HDMI sources (e.g., Apple TV 4K, FireTV 4K, Roku Ultra, Xbox One) no longer support 4K@30Hz. Using an HDMI v1.4 product with these sources and a 4K HDR display may result in a 1080P output instead of 4K.

6.2 Compatibility Notes

• The 4 inputs have embedded skews in timings to improve compatibility with different HDMI sources. If a specific source (e.g., NVIDIA Shield) experiences issues on one input, try connecting it to another input (e.g., Input 2/3/4 instead of Input 1).
• This model is HDMI 2.0b and does not support HDMI 2.1 features such as VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode).

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues, consider the following:

• No Video/Audio: Ensure all HDMI cables are securely connected. Verify that the power adapter is properly connected and the unit is powered on. Check input selection on the switch and display.
• Video Issues (e.g., blinking screen, no signal): Confirm that your HDMI cables are high-speed, 18Gbps certified, especially for 4K@60Hz HDR content. Try different HDMI input ports on the switch. Check the HDMI output A driver's seven built-in timing settings (refer to the full user manual for details on adjusting these if available).
• Audio Issues: Verify audio output settings on your source device. Ensure your audio receiver is set to the correct HDMI input. If using Output B for audio, remember it may display a 720P blue screen if the input is HDMI 2.0. Check EDID settings on the switch.
• Auto-Switching Not Working: Refer to section 5.1 to test compatibility of your source devices with the auto-switching function.
• CEC Problems: Remember that only HDMI Output A supports CEC. Ensure your display and source devices have CEC enabled.

For persistent issues, please contact technical support.

8. Specifications

Image: Physical dimensions of the VHD-U4X1AS unit.

9. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your VHD-U4X1AS switch:

• Keep the unit in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture.
• Clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
• Avoid blocking ventilation openings to prevent overheating.
• Do not attempt to open or service the unit yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.

10. Warranty and Support

This ViewHD product comes with a one-year replacement warranty. Additionally, lifetime free technical support is available.

For technical assistance or warranty claims, please contact ViewHD customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the product packaging or the official ViewHD website.