Unitek Bi-Directional USB C Switcher User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the Unitek Bi-Directional USB C Switcher (Model: AR-1078ABK). This device allows for flexible management of USB-C video sources and displays, supporting high-resolution video and fast data transfer. Please read this manual thoroughly before operation to ensure proper use and optimal performance.

Product Overview

The Unitek Bi-Directional USB C Switcher is designed for versatility, enabling two USB-C video sources to share one display, or one source to share two displays (not simultaneously). It features a compact design with clearly labeled ports and an intuitive one-button switch.

Image: The Unitek Bi-Directional USB C Switcher, showcasing its compact black design, a central button, two USB-C ports (labeled A and B), and the included 5V power adapter and two USB-C cables.

Image: The Unitek USB C Switcher displayed with its compact dimensions (66.5mm x 57.5mm x 15mm) and the included accessories: a 5V1A power adapter and two 1-meter (3.3ft) USB-C to USB-C cables.

Components:

• USB C Switcher Unit: Main device with USB-C ports and switch button.
• DC 5.0V Power Adapter: Provides necessary power for operation.
• USB C 3.0 Cables (2x): For connecting devices to the switcher.

Port Layout:

• USB-C Port A: Input/Output port.
• USB-C Port B: Input/Output port.
• DC 5.0V Port: For connecting the power adapter.
• Switch Button: To toggle between connected devices/displays.
• LED Indicators: Show which port is active.

Key Features

• Bi-Directional Functionality:

  Allows for two primary modes of operation:

  • 2 In 1 Out: Connect two USB-C video sources (e.g., laptops) to the switcher, and output to one display. Only one source can be displayed at a time.
  • 1 In 2 Out: Connect one USB-C video source to the switcher, and output to two displays. Only one display can be active at a time.
  

  Image: A visual representation of the switcher's bi-directional capabilities, illustrating how two PCs can share one monitor (2 In 1 Out) and how one PC can switch between two monitors (1 In 2 Out).
• High Resolution Video Output: Supports video resolutions up to 8K@60Hz, 4K@120Hz, and 1080P@165Hz. The actual output resolution depends on the capabilities of the source device, monitor, USB-C dock, and cables used.
  

  Image: A graphic highlighting the switcher's support for 8K@60Hz Ultra HD video output, with smaller insets showing 4K, Full HD (1080p), and HD (720p) resolutions for comparison.

• Fast Data Transfer: Supports data transfer speeds up to 10Gbps (USB 3.1 Gen2), enabling quick transfer of large files.
• One-Button Switching: Easily switch between connected devices or displays with a single press of the button. LED indicators clearly show the active connection.
  

  Image: A close-up of the Unitek USB C Switcher with a hand pressing the central button, illustrating the "One Press to Switch" functionality and indicating that LED display lights up upon switching.

• External Power Requirement: Requires connection to the included DC 5.0V power adapter for proper operation. The device will not function without a power source.
• Wide Compatibility: Driver-free operation with Windows 10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP, Mac OS, and Linux. Compatible with various USB-C devices such as laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and gaming consoles.

  WARNING: Thunderbolt is not supported.

  

  Image: A graphic illustrating the wide compatibility of the Unitek USB C Switcher with various peripherals like printers, mice, U disks, keyboards, webcams, and operating systems such as macOS and Windows.

Setup Instructions

1. Connect Power: Connect the included DC 5.0V power adapter to the DC 5.0V port on the switcher unit. Plug the power adapter into a wall outlet. This step is crucial for the device to function.
2. Choose Connection Mode:
   • For 2 In 1 Out (Two Computers Share One Monitor):

     Connect your first USB-C video source (e.g., Laptop 1) to USB-C Port A on the switcher using one of the provided USB-C cables.

     Connect your second USB-C video source (e.g., Laptop 2) to USB-C Port B on the switcher using the second provided USB-C cable.

     Connect your display (monitor) to the remaining USB-C port on the switcher (either A or B, depending on which port is free after connecting sources) using a compatible USB-C cable. Ensure the display supports USB-C video input.

   • For 1 In 2 Out (One Computer Switches Between Two Monitors):

     Connect your USB-C video source (e.g., Laptop) to one of the USB-C ports on the switcher (e.g., Port A) using one of the provided USB-C cables.

     Connect your first display (Monitor 1) to the other USB-C port on the switcher (e.g., Port B) using a compatible USB-C cable.

     Connect your second display (Monitor 2) to the same USB-C port as Monitor 1 (e.g., Port B) using a compatible USB-C cable. Note: Only one display can be active at a time in this configuration.
3. Power On Devices: Ensure all connected source devices and displays are powered on.

Operating Instructions

1. Switching Between Devices/Displays:

   Press the central button on the top of the Unitek USB C Switcher. Each press will toggle the active connection between the connected USB-C ports (A and B).

2. LED Indicators:

   The LED indicator light next to the switch button will illuminate to indicate which USB-C port (A or B) is currently active and transmitting the signal.

   

   Image: A close-up view of the Unitek USB C Switcher, highlighting the LED indicator light that illuminates to show the currently active port (A or B).

3. Simultaneous Display:

   In the 1 In 2 Out configuration, only one display can be active at a time. The switcher is designed to toggle the output between the two connected displays, not to extend or mirror to both simultaneously.

Maintenance

• Keep the device in a dry environment, away from moisture and extreme temperatures.
• Clean the exterior of the switcher with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
• Avoid dropping or subjecting the device to strong impacts.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself. Refer to qualified service personnel.

Troubleshooting

No display or flickering screen:

• Ensure the DC 5.0V power adapter is securely connected and receiving power. The switcher requires external power to operate.
• Verify that all USB-C cables are properly connected to both the switcher and your source/display devices.
• Check the resolution and refresh rate settings on your source device. Ensure they are compatible with your display and within the switcher's supported specifications (up to 8K@60Hz).
• Try using different USB-C cables, as faulty cables can cause display issues.
• Note for MacBook users: After testing, some MacBook connections to LG monitors may experience flickering, splashing, or black screen problems. This is a known compatibility issue with certain MacBook and LG monitor combinations, not necessarily a defect of the switcher.

No data transfer or slow speeds:

• Ensure your connected devices and cables support USB 3.1 Gen2 for 10Gbps transfer speeds.
• Confirm the switcher is receiving adequate power from the DC 5.0V adapter.

Switcher not responding to button press:

• Ensure the power adapter is connected and the switcher is powered on.
• Disconnect and reconnect the power adapter to reset the device.

Thunderbolt devices not working:

• This switcher does not support Thunderbolt technology. Ensure your devices are using standard USB-C connections.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Unitek website or contact Unitek customer service directly. Details regarding product warranty periods and support channels are typically provided with your purchase documentation or on the manufacturer's official support pages.

Manufacturer: Shenzhen Cenwell Technology Co., Ltd.

For further assistance, please visit the Unitek Store on Amazon.