The EXT100-eARC is an eARC audio-only extender kit designed to transmit eARC/ARC or alternative S/PDIF audio over long distances. It allows for the transmission of audio from a TV back to a centralized Audio/Video Receiver (AVR) up to 100 meters (330 feet) over a single Cat 5e/6 or higher cable. This kit supports full eARC capabilities, including advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos, and is backward compatible with 5.1CH ARC. Beyond audio extension, it also facilitates bi-directional IR, RS232, and CEC pass-through between the transmitter and receiver units, enhancing control flexibility within an audio-visual setup.
Function Description:
The primary function of the EXT100-eARC is to extend audio signals. It takes eARC/ARC audio from a display's HDMI OUT port or S/PDIF audio from a display's Toslink output port, transmits it over a UTP cable, and outputs it to an AV receiver's eARC/ARC HDMI input port or Toslink input port. This allows for flexible placement of the AV receiver, independent of its proximity to the display. The device supports two main audio return channels: eARC/ARC and S/PDIF, selectable via a DIP switch on the transmitter.
For eARC audio, the device supports article-based audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, as well as lossless audio formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master. When operating in eARC mode, it can handle up to 8-channel L-PCM audio at 24-bit, 192kHz, and HBR audio formats including Dolby True-HD, Dolby Atmos, and DTS-X. In ARC mode, it supports 5.1-channel compressed audio (Dolby Digital, DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital Plus) and 2.0-channel uncompressed PCM audio. When the S/PDIF channel is selected for audio return, it supports 5.1-channel compressed audio (Dolby Digital, DTS 5.1, Dolby Digital Plus) and 2.0-channel uncompressed PCM audio.
The bi-directional IR pass-through feature allows users to control the display from the receiver side or the AV receiver from the transmitter side. Similarly, the bi-directional RS232 pass-through enables control of RS232-enabled devices (like a PC) connected to either the transmitter or receiver. CEC pass-through is also supported, provided the connected display's CEC function is enabled.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Transmission Distance:
- UTP (Cat 5e/6 or above): 100m/330ft
- HDMI Input/Output: 5m/16ft
- Input/Output Ports:
- Transmitter: 1 x HDMI OUT, 1 x UTP OUT, 1 x S/PDIF IN, 1 x IR IN, 1 x IR OUT, 1 x RS232, 1 x Micro USB (for power input)
- Receiver: 1 x HDMI IN, 1 x UTP IN, 1 x S/PDIF OUT, 1 x IR IN, 1 x IR OUT, 1 x RS232, 1 x Micro USB (for power input)
- Audio Format Supported:
- S/PDIF: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS, DTS HD, PCM 2.0
- ARC: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS, DTS HD, PCM 2.0
- eARC: PCM 2.0, PCM 5.1, PCM 7.1, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS, DTS HD, DTS HD Master Audio, DTS:X
- Power Supply: DC 5V 1A (powered via Micro USB)
- Power Consumption: 3.582W (Max)
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F)
- Storage Temperature: -20°C to 70°C (-4°F to 158°F)
- Humidity: 10% to 90%, non-condensing
- ESD Protection (Human-body Model): ±8kV (Air-gap discharge) / ±4kV (Contact discharge)
- Device Dimension (W x H x D): 120mm x 25mm x 70.2mm / 4.72" x 0.98" x 2.76" each for TX/RX
- Product Weight: 0.32kg/0.71lb
Usage Features:
The EXT100-eARC is designed for ease of use and flexibility.
- Simple Setup: The device uses a single Cat 5e/6 or above cable for audio and control signal transmission, simplifying cabling.
- Powering: Both the transmitter and receiver units can be powered by a 5V USB power source, offering convenient power options, such as directly from a display's USB port.
- Audio Channel Selection: A 2-pin DIP switch on the transmitter's front panel allows for easy selection between eARC/ARC and S/PDIF audio return channels, catering to different audio setups and display capabilities.
- LED Indicators: Both units feature LED indicators for Power, LINK (UTP connection status), eARC (eARC/ARC audio transmission status), and S/PDIF (S/PDIF audio transmission status). These LEDs provide quick visual feedback on the device's operational status.
- Bi-directional Control: The inclusion of bi-directional IR and RS232 pass-through allows for comprehensive control of connected devices from either end of the extension. This is particularly useful in setups where the AV receiver and display are in different locations.
- Mounting Brackets: The kit includes mounting brackets and screws, allowing for secure installation of both the transmitter and receiver units to a desired surface.
Maintenance Features:
- Firmware Upgradable: The device's firmware can be upgraded via the RS232 port, ensuring that it can be updated with new features or bug fixes as they become available. This helps in future-proofing the device and maintaining optimal performance.
- Robust Design: With ESD protection up to ±8kV (Air-gap discharge) and ±4kV (Contact discharge), the device is built to withstand electrostatic discharges, contributing to its reliability and longevity.
- Clear Wiring Instructions: The manual provides clear warnings regarding wiring, emphasizing the importance of disconnecting power and handling cables gently, which helps prevent damage during installation and maintenance.
Need help?
To Next Page
General