PureLink HDMI 2.1 eARC Soundbar Adapter (Model: CSC200) User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your PureLink HDMI 2.1 eARC Soundbar Adapter, model CSC200. This device is designed to enable advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, and DTS:X from your source devices to an eARC-compatible soundbar or AV receiver, even when connected to a television that does not support eARC.

2. Safety Information

• Ensure the device is powered by the provided 5V 1A power supply or a compatible USB-A to Micro-USB cable connected to a TV's USB port.
• Do not expose the device to water, moisture, or extreme temperatures.
• Avoid disassembling the device. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
• Use high-quality HDMI 2.1 cables for optimal performance and to ensure compatibility with advanced audio and video formats.

3. Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present:

• PureLink HDMI 2.1 eARC Soundbar Adapter (CSC200)
• 5V 1A Power Adapter
• User Manual (this document)

Note: HDMI cables and USB-A to Micro-USB cable are not included.

4. Product Overview

The PureLink CSC200 is a compact HDMI adapter designed to extract eARC audio from an HDMI 2.1 source and send it to an eARC-compatible soundbar or AV receiver, while passing video through to your display. It supports full 18Gbps video (4K 60Hz 4:4:4) and HDCP 2.3, including HDR and Dolby Vision.

4.1 Device Layout

Image 4.1: Top view of the PureLink CSC200 eARC Soundbar Adapter. The device is a sleek, black rectangular box with the PureLink logo and "eARC" text on the top surface, and a small power indicator light.

Image 4.2: Rear view of the PureLink CSC200 eARC Soundbar Adapter, showing the various ports. From left to right: DC 5V power input, Soundbar (eARC) output, TV (HDMI eARC) output, and HDMI IN port.

Image 4.3: Two PureLink CSC200 eARC Soundbar Adapters stacked, illustrating the compact size of the device. The top unit shows the top surface, and the bottom unit shows the rear ports.

Ports and Indicators:

• DC 5V: Power input port (Micro USB).
• Soundbar (eARC): HDMI output for connecting to your eARC-compatible soundbar or AV receiver.
• TV (HDMI eARC): HDMI output for connecting to your television.
• HDMI IN: HDMI input for connecting your source device (e.g., game console, media player).
• Power Indicator: Small LED light indicating power status.

5. Setup and Connection

Follow these steps to connect your PureLink CSC200 adapter:

5.1 Connection Method 1: External Signal Source to CSC200

This method is ideal for home theater applications where you want to connect a source device (like a PS5 or Xbox) directly to the CSC200 to ensure the highest quality audio (e.g., Dolby Atmos) is sent to your eARC soundbar, while video is passed to your existing 4K TV.

1. Connect your source device (e.g., PS5, Xbox, PC, Apple TV, Fire Stick) to the HDMI IN port of the CSC200 using a high-quality HDMI 2.1 cable.
2. Connect the TV (HDMI eARC) port of the CSC200 to an available HDMI input on your television or display using a high-quality HDMI 2.1 cable.
3. Connect the Soundbar (eARC) port of the CSC200 to the eARC input on your soundbar or AV receiver using a high-quality HDMI 2.1 cable.
4. Connect the 5V power adapter to the DC 5V port on the CSC200 and plug it into a power outlet. Alternatively, use a USB-A to Micro-USB cable (not included) to power the CSC200 from a USB port on your TV.
5. Power on all connected devices (source, TV, soundbar/receiver).

Image 5.1: Diagram illustrating the connection of an external signal source (e.g., PS5, Xbox, PC) directly to the CSC200. Video and audio are input to the CSC200. Video is then output to a display (Monitor/TV/Projector), and audio is output to an audio system (Soundbar/AVR/Speaker).

Image 5.2: Specific diagram showing a gaming console connected to the CSC200's HDMI IN. The CSC200 sends 4K@60/HDR video to the 4K TV via HDMI (eARC) and eARC Dolby Atmos audio (2/5.1/7.1 CH) to a Soundbar or Amplifier via HDMI (eARC).

5.2 Connection Method 2: External Signal Source to Display, then to CSC200

This method is suitable when your display has multiple HDMI inputs and you prefer to manage sources through your TV, or if your TV has built-in apps you wish to use for audio output.

1. Connect your source device (e.g., PS5, Xbox, PC, Apple TV, Fire Stick) to an available HDMI input on your television or display.
2. Connect the TV (HDMI eARC) port of the CSC200 to the eARC/ARC HDMI input on your television.
3. Connect the Soundbar (eARC) port of the CSC200 to the eARC input on your soundbar or AV receiver using a high-quality HDMI 2.1 cable.
4. Connect the 5V power adapter to the DC 5V port on the CSC200 and plug it into a power outlet. Alternatively, use a USB-A to Micro-USB cable (not included) to power the CSC200 from a USB port on your TV.
5. Power on all connected devices.

Image 5.3: Diagram illustrating the connection of an external signal source to the display first, then the display's audio output is routed to the CSC200. Video is input to the display, and audio is output from the display to the CSC200, which then sends it to the audio system.

5.3 Connection Method 3: Using Built-in TV Streaming Apps

If you primarily use your TV's built-in streaming applications and want to output their audio to an eARC soundbar, use this connection method.

1. Connect the TV (HDMI eARC) port of the CSC200 to the eARC/ARC HDMI input on your television.
2. Connect the Soundbar (eARC) port of the CSC200 to the eARC input on your soundbar or AV receiver using a high-quality HDMI 2.1 cable.
3. Connect the 5V power adapter to the DC 5V port on the CSC200 and plug it into a power outlet. Alternatively, use a USB-A to Micro-USB cable (not included) to power the CSC200 from a USB port on your TV.
4. Power on your TV and soundbar/receiver.

Image 5.4: Diagram illustrating the use of the CSC200 with built-in TV streaming applications. Audio from the TV is sent to the CSC200, which then outputs it to the audio system.

Image 5.5: Diagram showing the CSC200 receiving eARC audio from a 4K TV. The CSC200 then outputs 2/5.1/7.1 CH audio, including Dolby Atmos, to a Soundbar or Amplifier via HDMI (eARC).

5.4 Important Notes for Setup

• CEC Passthrough: The CSC200 supports CEC passthrough for soundbar volume control and remote TV power on/off. Before configuration, verify the CEC settings and audio settings on all connected devices (TV, soundbar, source) to ensure smooth operation.
• HDMI Cables: Always use certified HDMI 2.1 cables for all connections to ensure full compatibility with 4K 60Hz video, HDR, and high-bitrate audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Using older or lower-quality cables may result in signal degradation or loss of features.
• Audio Settings: Ensure your source device and TV are configured to output the desired audio format (e.g., Bitstream, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X) and that your soundbar/receiver is set to receive these formats.

6. Operating Instructions

Once properly connected, the PureLink CSC200 operates automatically. It acts as an intermediary to route video and extract audio as configured.

• Power On/Off: The device powers on automatically when connected to a power source. There is no manual power button.
• Source Selection: Source selection is managed by your television or AV receiver, depending on your connection method.
• Audio Output: The CSC200 will automatically detect and pass through supported audio formats to your connected soundbar or AV receiver.
• CEC Functionality: If CEC is enabled on your TV and soundbar, you should be able to control the soundbar volume using your TV remote and potentially power on/off devices in sync.

7. Maintenance

The PureLink CSC200 requires minimal maintenance.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
• Ventilation: Ensure the device is placed in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
• Cable Connections: Periodically check all HDMI and power connections to ensure they are secure.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues, refer to the following troubleshooting guide:

9. Specifications

10. Warranty Information

PureLink products are designed for reliability and performance. This product comes with a limited warranty.

Image 10.1: PureLink Limited Warranty shield, indicating up to 15 years of coverage.

For detailed information regarding the terms and conditions of your warranty, please refer to the official PureLink website or contact customer support.

11. Customer Support

If you require further assistance or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact PureLink customer support.

• Online Support: Visit the official PureLink website for FAQs, product registration, and support resources.
• Contact Information: Refer to the PureLink website for regional contact details (phone, email).