Monoprice BLACKBIRD 8K 2x1 HDMI 2.1 Switcher
P/N 44434 - Quick Start Guide
Introduction
The Monoprice BLACKBIRD 8K 2x1 HDMI 2.1 switcher allows users to connect any two HDMI sources to a single HDMI display. It supports video resolutions up to 8K@60Hz 4:4:4 and features a 48Gbps video bandwidth, making it suitable for various applications including outdoor displays, video conferencing, security monitoring, and home theaters.
The switcher connects to two HDMI source devices via HDMI IN1 and HDMI IN2 ports and outputs to an external monitor (projector, TV, etc.) via the HDMI OUT port. Switching between sources is done via a button on the top panel. A Micro USB cable is recommended for power to ensure stable operation. This is a 2-input to 1-output switcher and is not bi-directional.
The device is compatible with gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation 5, enabling 4K@120Hz output on compatible displays.
Features
- HDMI 2.1 and HDCP 2.3 compliant
- 48Gbps video bandwidth
- Supports 8K@60Hz 4:4:4 (8/10/12-bit), 8K@60Hz 4:2:0 (12-bit), 8K@30Hz 4:4:4 (10-bit), and 4K@120Hz 4:4:4 (10-bit) resolutions
- HDR, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG pass-through
- Supports VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), FVA (FreeSync), and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
- HDMI audio formats: LPCM 7.1CH, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio
- 2x1 switch output with auto-switch capability
- Built-in Equalizer and Driver
- Auto EDID management
- Compact design for easy and flexible installation
Package Contents
- 1 × 8K Two-Input HDMI Switcher
- 1 × Micro USB Power Cable
- 1 x User Manual
Operation Controls and Functions
The switcher features ports and controls on its top, front, and rear panels. The top panel includes a central push button for switching inputs and a Power LED indicator. The front panel has two HDMI input ports (HDMI IN1 and HDMI IN2) and two input LEDs (1 and 2) to indicate the active input source. The rear panel includes the HDMI OUT port and the Micro USB power input port.
| No. | Name | Function Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Switch button / Power LED | Short pressing the switch button cycles through the two HDMI input signals to the HDMI display. A long press enters auto-switching mode. The green power LED indicates when the device is powered on. |
| 2 | Input LED (1~2) | The corresponding green LED illuminates when the HDMI IN1 or IN2 port is selected as the active input source. |
| 3 | HDMI IN1/2 port | HDMI signal input ports. Connect to HDMI source devices such as a DVD player or game console (e.g., PS5) using an HDMI cable. |
| 4 | POWER | DC 5V USB power input port. Connect the included Micro USB cable here. |
| 5 | HDMI OUT port | HDMI signal output port. Connect to an HDMI display device such as a television or monitor using an HDMI cable. |
Notes:
- While a power supply via the Micro USB cable is often not necessary, it is recommended if your HDMI devices provide insufficient power. Connect the Micro USB cable to a USB power source for the switcher.
- To achieve 4K@120Hz or 8K@60Hz output, ensure your HDMI cables, HDMI signal source, and HDMI display all support the required resolution and bandwidth.
- Use HDMI cables of appropriate length to prevent screen flickering. Recommended lengths: 2 meters for Ultra HDMI 2.1 cables (8K60, 8K30, 4K120); 3 meters for HDMI 2.0 cables (4K60 4:4:4); 5 meters for standard HDMI cables (4K60 4:2:0, 4K30, 1080P).
Application Example
The diagram illustrates a typical setup: An 8K TV is connected to the HDMI OUT port of the BLACKBIRD switcher. The switcher is powered via a USB Power Cable connected to its POWER port. Two source devices, a DVD or Blu-ray Player and a PC, are connected to the HDMI IN1 and HDMI IN2 ports respectively, using HDMI cables.
Specifications
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| HDMI Compliance | HDMI 2.1 |
| HDCP Compliance | HDCP 2.3 |
| Video Bandwidth | 48Gbps |
| Video Resolution | Up to 8K@60Hz 4:4:4 8/10/12bit, 8K@60Hz 4:2:0 12-bit, 8K@30Hz 4:4:4 10-bit, 4K@120Hz 4:4:4 10-bit |
| Color Depth | 8-bit, 10-bit, 12-bit |
| Color Space | RGB, YCbCr 4:4:4 / 4:2:2 / 4:2:0 |
| HDMI Audio Formats | LPCM, Dolby Digital/Plus/EX, Dolby True HD, DTS, DTS-EX, DTS-96/24, DTS High Res, DTS-HD Master Audio, DSD |
| Input Connection | 2×HDMI IN [Type A, 19-pin female] |
| Output Connection | 1×HDMI OUT [Type A, 19-pin female] |
| Housing | Plastic Enclosure |
| Silkscreen Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 60mm (W) × 60mm (D) × 12mm (H) |
| Weight | 31g |
| Power Supply | USB 5V |
| Power Consumption | 1.25W (Max) |
| Operation Temperature | 0°C ~ 40°C / 32°F ~ 104°F |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C ~ 60°C / -4°F ~ 140°F |
| Relative Humidity | 20~90% RH (non-condensing) |
Regulatory Compliance
Notice for FCC
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Modifying the equipment without Monoprice's authorization may result in the equipment no longer complying with FCC requirements for Class B digital devices. In that event, your right to use the equipment may be limited by FCC regulations, and you may be required to correct any interference to radio or television communications at your own expense.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Notice for ISED Canada
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
The terms HDMI and HDMI High-Definition Multimedia interface, and the HDMI Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC in the United States and other countries. Monoprice™ and all Monoprice logos are trademarks of Monoprice Inc.
Customer Support
Customer Service
Monoprice Customer Service is dedicated to ensuring a positive ordering, purchasing, and delivery experience. For any order-related issues, contact Monoprice Customer Service via Live Chat on www.monoprice.com or email at support@monoprice.com. Check the website for support hours and links.
Technical Support
Monoprice provides free, live, online technical support for installation, setup, troubleshooting, or product recommendations. For assistance, use the online chat button on www.monoprice.com or email tech@monoprice.com. Check the website for support hours and links.
To download the latest drivers, firmware, manuals, etc., visit www.monoprice.com and search for product number 44434. Support files are linked at the bottom of the product page.
Support
