AVMATRIX H4 Plus Video Switcher User Manual

1. Introduction

The AVMATRIX H4 Plus is a versatile and compact video switcher designed for live streaming, recording, and production. It features a 10.1-inch FHD IPS display for real-time monitoring, multiple HDMI inputs, and advanced functionalities like Chroma Key, Luma Key, and various transition effects. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your H4 Plus Video Switcher.

The H4 PLUS is equipped with a 10.1-inch real-time monitoring screen. Users can monitor 4 input channels, PVW and PGM at the same time without the need for an external monitor, which is very convenient.

Figure 1.1: Front view of the AVMATRIX H4 Plus Video Switcher, showing the integrated 10.1-inch FHD display and control panel.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

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

3. Setup and Connections

Before operating the device, ensure all necessary connections are made correctly.

3.1 Rear Panel Overview

Figure 3.1: Rear panel connections including HDMI inputs, PGM/Multiview outputs, USB, LAN, and Tally ports.

• SD Card Slot: Insert an SD card for direct recording.
• MIC 1 / MIC 2: 3.5mm audio input jacks for external microphones.
• HDMI IN 1-4: Connect HDMI sources such as cameras, computers, or gaming consoles.
• PGM OUT: HDMI Program output.
• MULTIVIEW: HDMI Multiview output.
• USB REC: USB port for connecting a USB disk for recording.
• LAN: Ethernet port for IP streaming and web control.
• TALLY: DB-15 connector for Tally light system.
• DC 12V IN: Power input.

3.2 Power Connection

Connect the provided 12V power adapter to the "DC 12V IN" port on the rear panel and then plug it into a power outlet.

3.3 Input Source Connection

Connect your HDMI video sources (cameras, computers, etc.) to the HDMI IN 1-4 ports using high-quality HDMI cables. The switcher supports connecting multiple devices such as gaming consoles, computers, cameras, and camcorders.

3.4 Output Connection

The video switcher has 2 channels HDMI PGM output, 1 channel HDMI multiview output, and 1 channel type-c output. All four outputs can be assigned from HDMI1-4, PVW, PGM, Clean PGM, Multiview, and Color Bar. Supports multiview and PGM image output at the same time.

• Connect your main display/recorder to the "PGM OUT" port.
• Connect a separate monitor for multiview monitoring to the "MULTIVIEW" port.
• Use the USB Type-C port for capturing PGM video & audio to a computer for streaming.

3.5 Audio Connection

Connect external microphones to the "MIC 1" and "MIC 2" 3.5mm audio input jacks if needed.

4. Operating Instructions

This section details the main functions and operations of the H4 Plus Video Switcher.

4.1 Control Panel Layout

Figure 4.1: Top control panel layout showing input selection, function buttons, fader, and menu controls.

• PGM/PVW Buttons: Select inputs for Program (live output) and Preview.
• Function Buttons: MASTER, MIC 1, MIC 2, CHROMA, LUMA, PIP1, PIP2, DSK, LOGO, MV, REC, STREAM, MIX, WIPE, CUT, AUTO.
• Fader Bar: Manually control transitions between scenes.
• MENU/EXIT: Navigate and exit menu options.

4.2 Basic Switching

To switch between video sources:

1. On the PVW row, press the button corresponding to the input you wish to preview (e.g., IN 1, IN 2). This input will appear on the preview section of the integrated display.
2. To make the previewed input live, press the "CUT" button for an instant cut, or use the "AUTO" button or fader bar for a transition effect.

4.3 Transition Effects

The switcher includes fancy transition effects such as WIPE, DIP, and MIX. These can help make live streaming more interesting and fantastic.

• MIX: A smooth dissolve between sources.
• WIPE: A directional wipe transition.
• DIP: A transition that dips to a color before transitioning to the next source.
• Use the "WIPE" or "MIX" buttons to select the desired transition type.
• Adjust transition speed using the dedicated controls if available, or rely on the fader bar for manual control.

4.4 Chroma Key and Luma Key

The switcher has the Chroma Key and Luma Key functions, allowing users to add post-production in real time, switch between scenes, and create an immersive virtual live studio.

Figure 4.2: Demonstration of enhanced Chroma Key technology for background removal and Picture-in-Picture (PIP) modes.

• Press the "CHROMA" or "LUMA" button to activate the respective keying function.
• Access the menu to fine-tune keying parameters such as key color, tolerance, and edge settings.

4.5 Picture-in-Picture (PIP) and Picture-outside-Picture (POP)

The H4 Plus supports PIP and POP modes, allowing you to overlay multiple video sources simultaneously.

• Press "PIP1" or "PIP2" to activate Picture-in-Picture modes.
• Adjust the size and position of the overlaid window through the menu settings.

4.6 Recording to USB Disk & SD Card

SD card and USB interface can record PGM signal directly, making it easy to record high-quality video. The encoding bit rate is up to 32Mbps and the supported file formats are MP4/TS.

• Insert a formatted USB disk into the "USB REC" port or an SD card into the "SD CARD SLOT".
• Press the "REC" button to start recording the Program output.
• Press "REC" again to stop recording.

4.7 Live Streaming via Ethernet and USB

This video switcher supports two streaming methods:

• LAN Port (RTMP(S), RTSP, SRT): Connect an Ethernet cable to the "LAN" port. Configure streaming settings (RTMP server URL, stream key) via the device's web control interface.
• USB Type-C (OBS, vMIX, ZOOM, Teams, Skype, Twitch): Connect the USB Type-C port to your computer. The switcher will appear as a webcam/capture device. Use your preferred streaming software (OBS, vMIX, etc.) to select the H4 Plus as your video and audio source. The switcher is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac.

Figure 4.3: Illustration of live streaming capabilities via Ethernet and USB, along with SD card and USB disk recording.

4.8 Web Control Interface

With the LAN port, the device can also be remotely controlled by accessing its IP address in a web browser. This allows for configuration of encode settings, stream settings, and record settings.

• Connect the H4 Plus to your network via the LAN port.
• Find the IP address of the device (usually displayed in the system menu or via network scanning tools).
• Enter the IP address into a web browser on a computer connected to the same network.
• Log in (if prompted) to access the control interface.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your AVMATRIX H4 Plus Video Switcher.

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. For the screen, use a microfiber cloth specifically designed for displays. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Ventilation: Ensure the ventilation openings are not blocked to prevent overheating.
• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the switcher in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the AVMATRIX official website for firmware updates to ensure you have the latest features and bug fixes.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your H4 Plus, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

If the problem persists, please contact AVMATRIX customer support for further assistance.

7. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the AVMATRIX H4 Plus Video Switcher.

Figure 7.1: Detailed specifications table comparing different SHARK models, including the H4 Plus.

8. Warranty and Support

AVMATRIX products are designed for reliability and performance. For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official AVMATRIX website.

If you have any questions or require technical assistance, please contact AVMATRIX customer service. Contact information can typically be found on the AVMATRIX website or in the product packaging.

The package includes: H4 PLUS Video Switcher, Power supply, USB cable(type A-C), Tally connector(DB-15). If you have any questions, please contact us. We are always at your service.