It is imperative to know and understand the interactivity of the devices regardless if the system is
simple or complex. Understanding the basics of systematic troubleshooting from source to display
(and everything in-between) will greatly improve your chances of resolving issues within the sys
-
tem.
5
Audio/Video Distribution Systems - Overview
All AV Systems are made of basically 3 main components:
·
Sources – This is any device that outputs HDMI – Set top boxes, game consoles, computers and more.
This is a HDMI Transmitter device. Substitute the generator during system testing – use the analyzer to
test the output of any source for the desired timing characteristic.
·
Repeaters – This is a combination device that can be connected between one or several sources and
sink devices – like an AVR (audio video receiver) or matrix switch. Use both generator and analyzer for
troubleshooting the devices and for system troubleshooting.
·
Sinks – This is the display or projector – this is an HDMI Receiver device. Substitute the analyzer for
sinks during system testing – use the generator to test sinks by injecting a specific timing characteristic
expected to pass through distribution system.
In the diagram above, you can see the basic components of an A/V system (#1 = source, #2 =
distribution system, #3 = sink). Although this is a simple diagram, imagine there are several devices
(AVR, Distribution Amplifier aka HDMI splitter, AVR, HDMI Extender, etc) in place of #2 (the distribu
-
tion system).
Example of a functioning system based on the diagram above:
1.
Generator – generates test pattern (SMPTE Bars) at desired video format and HDCP version.
2.
DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - passes the signal (unaltered).
3.
Analyzer – receives and displays the test pattern (SMPTE Bars) at desired video format and HDCP ver
-
sion.
same - 8k SMTP bars on the generator
same - 8k SMTP bars on the generator
analyzer shows the test pattern
analyzer shows the test pattern
Extra closeup of Hound's signal info page.
Extra closeup of Hound's signal info page.
