How to Install and Use the Model 1154A Signal Sensing AutoSelector

Supported Signal Formats

Component Video: Y, Pb, Pr (or Composite Video)
Digital Audio: Coaxial and Optical
Analog Audio: Left and Right RCA

Product Overview

The Model 1154A is designed to allow users to play one of four signal sources, such as satellite receivers, game consoles, or DVD players, through a home theater system. It features proprietary Adaptive Signal Sensing™ technology for automatic source selection. The device offers high-bandwidth circuitry supporting Y Pb Pr component video, stereo analog audio, and digital audio (optical and coaxial). It simultaneously switches all audio and video signals when a new source becomes active. Incoming coaxial and optical digital audio signals are automatically converted to compatible coaxial and/or optical outputs.

This model is an enhanced version of the original Model 1154, incorporating improvements in shielding, input circuitry, and signal sensor adjustment capabilities.

Figure 1: Illustration showing the orientation of labels on the unit, which can be positioned horizontally or vertically.

Initial Installation

To install the 1154A, use the provided screws to secure it to a flat surface, ensuring it can support the weight of connected cables. The unit can be mounted either horizontally or vertically for space-saving. Preprinted labels are supplied to help mark each input position, or users can create custom labels.

Understanding AutoSelection

The Model 1154A automatically selects an input based on detected signal changes. Typically, users power on their desired source while leaving others off, as the appearance of a new input is a primary selection criterion. However, certain devices, like Personal Video Recorders (PVRs) that remain powered for recording, or satellite receivers that output signals even when powered off, can complicate automatic selection. These devices may continuously provide a signal, making it difficult for the 1154A to anticipate the user's intended source. Following these instructions will help optimize the 1154A's performance according to individual system configurations and usage patterns.

Handling Personal Video Recorders (PVRs)

A PVR that begins recording might cause the 1154A to incorrectly switch to the PVR input, interrupting the currently viewed source. To mitigate this, consider connecting a PVR's outputs directly to a home theater receiver or television, bypassing the 1154A. The PVR can then be selected manually via infrared control. If a PVR is the only source that outputs signals when powered off, it might be connectable to the 1154A by assigning it the lowest priority input position.

Establishing Switching Priority

Sources that maintain video or digital audio output even when turned off can interfere with automatic selection. For example, a satellite box powered down might still output a blank digital audio bitstream, which the 1154A interprets as an active signal. To prevent incorrect selections, the order in which sources are connected to the 1154A is crucial. Generally, sources with constant or null output should be connected to higher-numbered inputs (e.g., positions 3 and 4), as the 1154A's priority system allows it to selectively ignore these positions. Optimizing autoselection is best achieved by carefully choosing the connection order of your sources.

Figure 2: Example Source Prioritization
Priority/Source	Comment
Example A 1 DVD player 2 Game box 3 Cable box 4 Satellite receiver	Usually does not produce null output Usually does not produce null output Usually does not produce null output Sat receiver may produce null output
Example B 1 DVD player 2 Cable box 3 Satellite receiver 4 PVR	Usually does not produce null output Usually does not produce null output May produce null output Produces null output

Making Connections

Connect your sources to the 1154A inputs according to your desired priority. Ensure that for each source, you connect either coaxial or optical digital audio, but not both, along with the video signal. The 1154A's coaxial and optical digital audio outputs can both be connected to your home theater system if needed.

Connect the 1154A's video output to your television or monitor, either directly or via your home theater receiver. If using composite video instead of component video, utilize the green Y jacks for all video connections.

After connecting, apply power to the 1154A. Turn on one source at a time to verify correct switching behavior. The unit's green indicator lamps show which inputs the 1154A is detecting as active (producing video or audio output). A solid red lamp indicates the currently selected input, while a flashing red lamp signifies a selected position where no input is being received.

If you need to change the order of input sources or the signals connected to a source during setup, perform the re-initialization procedure described later in this document.

Optimizing System Performance

Proper source ordering is the primary method for optimizing autoselection. A secondary optimization involves managing digital audio inputs; disconnecting unneeded digital audio connections and using analog audio instead can sometimes prevent incorrect source selection.

The third method for resolving incorrect selections is using the Manual Select button on the 1154A's front panel. This button is useful for overriding an occasional mis-selection or for maintaining a specific source view for an extended period without interruption. Note: After using the Manual Select button, the 1154A will not autoselect again until the Auto mode is re-engaged by cycling through all positions until the Auto lamp is lit.

Sensor Disable Procedure

Before disabling any sensors, ensure that source order has been optimized and the best available inputs from each source are connected.

A final method to prevent incorrect selections involves configuring the 1154A to ignore specific audio or video inputs. First, identify the input causing the incorrect selection. After applying the first three optimization methods, if issues persist, manually select an input that is either empty or reliably autoselects (e.g., a DVD player). Then, turn off all sources. If any input position still shows a green lamp, temporarily unplug the digital audio cable, the Y video (green) cable, and the left analog audio cable from that position, one by one, until the green lamp extinguishes.

If unplugging multiple cables was necessary to turn off the green lamp, reconnect cables until the lamp remains off with the minimum number of cables unplugged.

To permanently disable sensors for specific inputs, remove the five top cover screws (note: the middle screw on the jack panel side is fixed). Gently pry off the cover. Locate the 12-position switch on the bottom layer of circuitry. The 1154A is shipped with all sensor switches in the ON position. Use a small tool, like a screwdriver, to turn OFF the switches corresponding to the inputs that were unplugged. Only disable switches for inputs known to cause difficulty; do not disable others. With the cover removed, plug all cables back in and check for green lights. If any are observed, repeat the unplugging process. Reinstall the cover once adjustments are complete.

Figure 4: Diagram illustrating the internal 12-position switch used for sensor configuration.

Re-initialization

When adding new sources or changing the order of existing ones, it is necessary to clear the 1154A's memory to refresh its adaptation process. Follow these steps:

Unplug the power cord.
Press and hold the Manual Select button while reconnecting the power cord.
Release the Manual Select button once the panel lamps turn off.
Unplug and then replug the power cord again.

Operation Modes

The 1154A employs multiple criteria to determine source switching and adapts its behavior over time based on user activity patterns. It monitors video, analog audio, and digital audio signals to identify active sources.

The Manual Select button allows users to override automatic selection. A brief press advances to the next input position. A solid red lamp indicates the currently selected input. To return to Auto mode, repeatedly press the Manual Select button until the unit cycles through all four positions and the Auto lamp illuminates.

In Auto mode, the 1154A selects any input that becomes active. If multiple inputs become active simultaneously, or when switching from Manual back to Auto mode, the 1154A defaults to the input with the lowest number.

When an audio-only source is active, the 1154A maintains that selection for 15 seconds after the audio stops. This prevents unintended switching during brief pauses in musical content.

Figure 5: LED Indicator Interpretation: Green = Signal Present, Red = Selected, Flash = Selected, No Signal.

Connection Diagram and Variations

Figure 6 provides an example of a typical wiring configuration for the Model 1154A. Users may consider the following variations:

Connect analog audio directly to the TV for a simpler sound output.
Route component video through the receiver to the TV to utilize the TV's Graphical User Interface.
Use composite video instead of component video.
Rearrange source units to match desired priority order.

Figure 6: Illustrates a typical connection setup for the Model 1154A, showing connections from various source units (DVD Player, CD Changer, Digital Set Top Box, DSS Tuner) to the device's inputs, and outputs to a TV and Digital Receiver/Amplifier.

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