AVMATRIX Shark H4 Plus Video Mixer Switcher User Manual

1. Introduction

The AVMATRIX Shark H4 Plus is a compact and powerful 4-channel HDMI video mixer switcher designed for live streaming, recording, and production. It features a built-in 10.1-inch IPS FHD display for real-time monitoring, multiple input/output options, and advanced features like Chroma Key and transition effects. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your device.

2. Package Contents

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

• H4 PLUS Video Switcher
• Power supply (12V 2A)
• USB cable (Type A-C)
• Tally connector (DB-15)

3. Product Overview

3.1. Front Panel Controls and Display

The front panel features a 10.1-inch IPS FHD display for monitoring input channels, PVW (Preview), and PGM (Program) outputs. It also includes various buttons and controls for switching, audio mixing, and special effects.

Image: Top view of the AVMATRIX Shark H4 Plus, showing the integrated 10.1-inch display, input selection buttons (PGM and PVW), audio controls, transition effects, and menu navigation.

3.2. Rear Panel Connections

The rear panel provides all necessary input and output ports for connecting external devices.

Image: Rear view of the AVMATRIX Shark H4 Plus, detailing the SD Card Slot, 4 HDMI Inputs, 2 PGM Outputs, 1 Multiview Output, USB REC port, LAN port, Tally connector, and DC 12V power input.

• SD CARD SLOT: Insert an SD card for recording.
• HDMI IN 1-4: Connect HDMI sources such as cameras, computers, or gaming consoles.
• PGM OUT 1-2: HDMI Program outputs.
• MULTI-VIEW: HDMI Multiview output for monitoring all sources.
• USB REC: USB port for connecting external storage for recording.
• LAN: Ethernet port for IP streaming and PC remote control.
• TALLY: Tally light connector.
• DC 12V IN: Power input.

4. Setup

1. Power Connection: Connect the provided 12V 2A power supply to the "DC 12V IN" port on the rear panel and plug it into a power outlet.
2. HDMI Input Sources: Connect your HDMI cameras, computers, or other video sources to the "HDMI IN 1-4" ports.
3. HDMI Output Displays: Connect your program monitors to the "PGM OUT 1-2" ports. For a multiview display, connect a monitor to the "MULTI-VIEW" port.
4. USB-C Output (for PC): For live streaming via PC software (e.g., OBS, PotPlayer), connect the USB-C port (located on the side) to your computer using the provided USB Type A-C cable.
5. LAN Connection: For IP streaming or PC remote control, connect an Ethernet cable to the "LAN" port.
6. SD Card/USB Recording: Insert an SD card into the "SD CARD SLOT" or connect a USB drive to the "USB REC" port for recording.
7. Tally Lights: Connect your tally light system to the "TALLY" port if applicable.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Basic Switching

Use the PGM (Program) and PVW (Preview) buttons on the front panel to select your desired input sources. The PVW display shows the next source to be switched to, while the PGM display shows the live output.

• Press a numbered button (1-4) under PVW to select a source for preview.
• Press a numbered button (1-4) under PGM to directly switch a source to the program output.
• Use the CUT button for an instant, hard cut transition.
• Use the AUTO button to perform a transition with the selected effect and speed.

5.2. Transition Effects

The Shark H4 Plus includes various transition effects such as WIPE, DIP, and MIX. Select an effect and adjust its speed using the dedicated controls.

• Select a transition type (WIPE, DIP, MIX) using the corresponding buttons.
• Adjust the transition speed using the SPEED1 and SPEED2 controls.

5.3. Advanced Features

Image: Visual representation of advanced features including enhanced Chroma Key for background removal, Picture-in-Picture (PIP) and Picture-on-Picture (POP) modes, Logo Overlay, various transition effects, and PC remote control interface.

Chroma Key and Luma Key

The switcher supports Chroma Key and Luma Key for creating virtual studio environments. This allows you to remove a specific color (Chroma Key, e.g., green screen) or brightness range (Luma Key) from a video source and replace it with another background.

• Activate CHROMA or LUMA keying using the dedicated buttons.
• Adjust keying parameters through the on-screen menu to achieve desired results.

Picture-in-Picture (PIP) and Picture-on-Picture (POP)

Integrate multiple video sources simultaneously using PIP or POP modes. This is useful for displaying a presenter over a presentation or showing multiple camera angles.

• Select PIP1 or PIP2 to activate Picture-in-Picture.
• Adjust the size and position of the inset window via the menu.

Logo Overlay

Add a custom logo or graphic to your live production.

• Upload your logo via the PC control software or USB.
• Activate LOGO overlay using the dedicated button.

5.4. Recording

The Shark H4 Plus supports recording your program output to an SD card or USB drive.

• Ensure an SD card is inserted or a USB drive is connected to the respective ports.
• Press the REC button to start and stop recording.
• Recorded files are in MP4/TS format with bitrates up to 32Mbps.

5.5. Live Streaming

Stream your production directly via Ethernet or through a connected PC.

• Ethernet Streaming: Connect the LAN port to your network. The device supports RTMP/RTMPS/SRT protocols for direct streaming to platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch. Configure streaming settings via the device menu or PC control software.
• USB-C Streaming (via PC): Connect the USB-C output to a PC. Use software like OBS Studio, PotPlayer, or vMix to capture the video and audio for streaming.

5.6. PC Remote Control

Manage all settings and operations of the switcher from a computer using the dedicated PC control software.

• Connect your PC to the switcher via the LAN port.
• Install the AVMATRIX PC control software (available from the manufacturer's website).
• Launch the software to access comprehensive control over the switcher's functions.

5.7. Audio Mixer

The integrated audio mixer allows you to control audio levels from various inputs.

• Adjust audio levels for each input (HDMI 1-4, MIC 1, MIC 2) using the dedicated faders and buttons.
• Use the AFV (Audio Follow Video) function to automatically switch audio with video.

6. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the AVMATRIX Shark H4 Plus.

Image: A detailed table outlining the specifications for AVMATRIX Shark H4, H4 Plus, S4, and S4 Plus models, covering display, video input/output, other interfaces, audio, encoding bitrate, stream protocols, storage format, record file format, record file segment, transitions, effects, layouts, keys, function, media format, generators, audio mixer, audio delay, input format support, color space, HDMI PGM/MV output, USB capture, DC power in, consumption, dimensions, weight, and working temperature.

7. Troubleshooting

• No Power: Ensure the 12V 2A power adapter is securely connected to the device and a working power outlet.
• No Video Input: Check all HDMI cable connections. Ensure input sources are powered on and outputting a signal. Verify the input resolution and refresh rate are supported by the switcher.
• No Video Output: Check HDMI cables to your monitors. Ensure monitors are powered on and set to the correct input.
• Recording Issues: Ensure the SD card or USB drive is properly inserted and has sufficient free space. Check that the storage device is formatted to FAT32, exFAT, or NTFS.
• Streaming Problems: Verify your network connection. Check streaming settings (RTMP URL, Stream Key) in the device or PC software. Ensure sufficient internet bandwidth.
• PC Control Not Working: Ensure the LAN cable is connected. Verify the PC control software is installed and running, and that the switcher's IP address is correctly configured.

8. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Ventilation: Ensure the ventilation openings are not blocked to prevent overheating.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures when not in use.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the AVMATRIX official website for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and access to new features.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official AVMATRIX website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.