Premiere Movie Server Installation Manual
8
Chapter 1
Before you get started... the basics
HDMI HANDSHAKING:
HDMI is by far the most efficient
(and in many cases the only)
method of
transmitting audio and video
from one component to an-
other. Unfortunately there
are many issues that go along
with this performance and
convenience. The primary
one is losing the “handshake”
between two devices.
The first important step is to determine if you even have an HDMI problem.
Movie servers are different from simpler devices like DVD players or cable
boxes; they require full two-way communication with the display device.
Step one is to run a quick and simple test during your installation. All Fu-
sion systems are designed to run 24/7 and typically are left powered on
(although this is not a requirement).
Every evening, the unit will reset
itself at approximately 4AM unless a movie is playing on the unit.
Some receivers or displays do not maintain their EDID output
(or hand-
shake)
when powered off. When this happens the Fusion server will lose its
HDMI connection and no longer will have the correct and required EDID for
maintaining proper video output. This is very easy to check for and can be
remedied if discovered.
TESTING FOR HDMI HANDSHAKING ISSUES:
Turn your receiver and TV off, then power off and restart the Fusion server.
After the server has completely restarted
(one full minute)
, power on the
receiver and TV and check for correct video output. If your equipment
maintains its EDID properly the video will be fine. If however, you have a
black screen, the resolution is incorrect, or the picture has shifted, you
have an HDMI handshaking issue.
These types of problems are common enough that there are a number of
manufacturers that make and sell EDID learning devices to fix this problem.
Gefen & Atlona both make EDID learning devices which are small adapt-
ers that can be used in-line to maintain EDID. Gefen’s HDMI detective is a
very popular solution, another simple solution is to use a small HDMI switch
which maintains EDID.
Be sure to remember NEVER to hot swap or plug
and unplug HDMI cables when equipment is powered up!
