General
Number of inputs	8
Number of outputs	2
Input types	4x HDMI, 1x VGA, 1x DP, 1x USB-C, 1x CATx expansion input
Output types	1x HDMI, 1x CATx
Supported resolution	up to 4K at 60 Hz (4:4:4)
Scaling	upscaling and downscaling to 1080p, 1920 x 1200p, 4K at 30 Hz and 4K at 60 Hz
Bandwidth	18 Gbit/s
Transmission distance CATx 4K/60 Hz	40 m
Transmission distance CATx 1080p/60 Hz	70 m
PoC (Power over CAT6)	24 V
Audio embedding	external symmetrical audio inputs in CATx and HDMI video inputs
Audio outputs	Two groups: symmetric and SPDIF
Control interfaces	RS-232 (local and Pass-Through), IR (local and Pass-Through), TCP/IP, Relay, CEC, OSD
Operation temperature	-10 to 55 °C
Storage temperature	-25 to 70 °C
Air humidity	10 to 90 %
Power supply input	100-240 VAC
Power supply output	24 VDC
Power supply output current	6 A
Maximum power consumption	85 W
Approvals	CE, RoHS, WEEE, UL
Video transmission over CATx
MIX audio input
Loudness control
Web GUI control
Relay control

The 8x2 video matrix switcher from BlackBox is a professional signal distribution device for use in conference and presentation rooms. It enables seamless switching and distribution of up to eight different video sources to two outputs. The device is designed for integration into AV systems where multiple signal sources such as computers, projectors, or streaming devices must be distributed to different displays or projection surfaces. Support for HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2 ensures compatibility with modern sources and receivers, particularly in environments with protected content.

Applications

The switcher is specifically designed for use in meeting and presentation rooms where flexible and central control of multiple signal sources is required. It is suitable for systems that need to adapt to various resolutions and formats, such as in schools, companies, or event spaces. The ability to transmit signals over CATx cables simplifies installation in existing network infrastructures, eliminating the need for additional HDMI cabling.

Functions and Features in Detail

The device features a total of eight inputs: four HDMI, one VGA, one DisplayPort, one USB-C port, and one CATx expansion input. The outputs consist of one HDMI and one CATx output, with the HDMI output mirrored to transmit the same content over the CATx output. The scaling function enables up- and down-scaling to various resolutions, including 1080p, 1920 x 1200p, 4K at 30 Hz, and 4K at 60 Hz, for both HDMI and CATx outputs. This is particularly useful when connecting different displays with varying resolutions.

Technology Explained Simply

The switcher supports a bandwidth of 18 Gbit/s, enabling transmission of high-resolution video up to 4K at 60 Hz (4:4:4). The VLC technology (Video over CATx) ensures lossless transmission of HDMI 2.0 signals over standard CAT5/6 cables. The maximum transmission distance is 40 meters at 4K/60 Hz and 70 meters at 1080p/60 Hz over CATx. Power for the CATx connections is supplied via 24V PoC (Power over CAT6), eliminating the need for additional power cables for CATx cabling.

Audio Embedding and Control

External balanced audio inputs can be embedded into the video inputs, with two audio output groups (balanced and SPDIF) available for de-embedding. A MIX audio input with volume control allows combining different audio signals. Control is available via multiple interfaces: RS-232 (local and pass-through), IR (local and pass-through), TCP/IP, relay, CEC, and OSD. Web GUI control is also available, as well as control of relay devices such as projector screens.

Compatibility and Accessories

The switcher is compatible with HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2. The use of CATx cables enables integration into existing network infrastructures. Control connections include RS-232, two relays, one IR eye, two IR inputs, one IR output, one TCP/IP connection, and one firmware port. The control connectors consist of three 3-pole terminal blocks, four 3.5-mm jacks, one RJ-45, and one Type-A USB port.

Mounting and Installation

The device is housed in a 19-inch enclosure with dimensions of 4.4 cm height, 43.6 cm width, and 35.6 cm depth. Installation is performed in standard 19-inch racks. Power supply is via an integrated power supply unit with an input range of 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, and an output of 24 VDC, 6 A. The maximum power consumption is 85 W.

Operational Advantages

Automatic switching and diverse control options reduce operational effort. Support for PoC reduces the number of required cables. The scaling function allows adaptation to different display resolutions, increasing flexibility in use. The operating temperature range is -10 °C to 55 °C, and the storage temperature range is -25 °C to 70 °C. Relative humidity is 10 to 90 %, non-condensing. Certifications include CE, RoHS, WEEE, and UL.