KRAMER ELECTRONICS LTD.
2
1
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your purchase of this Kramer Electronics Distribution Amplifier. Since 1981 Kramer has
been dedicated to the development and manufacture of high quality video/audio equipment. The Kramer line
has become an integral part of many of the best production and presentation facilities around the world. In
recent years, Kramer has redesigned and upgraded most of the line, making the best even better. Kramer’s line
of professional video/audio electronics is one of the most versatile and complete available, and is a true leader in
terms of quality, workmanship, price/performance ratio and innovation. In addition to the Kramer line of high
quality distribution amplifiers, such as the one you have just purchased, Kramer also offers a full line of high
quality switchers, processors, interfaces, controllers and computer-related products.
This manual includes configuration, operation and option information for the following products from the
Kramer line of distribution amplifier PICO TOOLS. All these PICO TOOLS are similar in operation and
features.
PT102A - 1:2 Audio Distribution Amplifier
PT102S - 1:2 s-Video Distribution Amplifier
PT102V - 1:2 Video Distribution Amplifier
1.1
A Word on Video/Audio Distribution Amplifiers
Video/Audio Distribution Amplifiers described in this manual, distribute one signal to several users. They vary
in the number of outputs, operating format and bandwidth. Video/Audio distribution amplifiers are used to
distribute one source to several acceptors (monitors, audio devices etc.) for simultaneous recording or
monitoring of one source, with no discernible signal degradation. A good quality distributor amplifies the
incoming signal, pre-compensates the signal for potential losses (resulting from the use of long cables, noisy
sources, etc.) and generates several identical buffered and amplified outputs. Often, a signal processor is
inserted between the source and the distribution amplifier for correction and fine-tuning of the source signal
before multiplication, so that all copies are corrected in the same way. Typical applications of the machines are:
audio/video duplication, studios delivering undiminished quality duplicates and video showrooms delivering an
identical signal to several acceptors. The front panels of these Kramer distribution amplifiers are designed to be
simple to operate.
1.2
Factors Affecting Quality of Results
There are many factors affecting the quality of results when signals are transmitted from a source to an acceptor:
Connection cables
- Low quality cables are susceptible to interference; they degrade signal quality due
to poor matching and cause elevated noise levels. They should therefore be of the best quality.
Sockets and connectors of the sources and acceptors
- So often ignored, they should be of highest
quality, since "Zero Ohm" connection resistance is the objective. Sockets and connectors also must
match the required impedance (75ohm in video). Cheap, low quality connectors tend to rust, thus causing
breaks in the signal path.
Amplifying circuitry
- Must have quality performance when the desired result is high linearity, low
distortion and low noise operation.
Distance between sources and acceptors
- Plays a major role in the final result. For long distances
(over 15 meters) between sources and acceptors, special measures should be taken in order to avoid cable
losses. These include using higher quality cables or adding line amplifiers.
Interference from neighboring electrical appliances
- These can have an adverse effect on signal
quality. Balanced audio lines are less prone to interference, but unbalanced audio should be installed far
from any mains power cables, electric motors, transmitters, etc. even when the cables are shielded.
