The LG-HSW401-4K is an ultrathin auto switcher designed for managing multiple HDMI video sources. It features four HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, supporting high-resolution video up to 4Kx2K@60Hz 4:4:4 HDR and multichannel audio. The device is fully compliant with HDMI 2.0 and HDCP2.3 specifications, offering an 18Gbps high bandwidth for reliable signal transmission.
Function Description:
The primary function of the LG-HSW401-4K is to switch between four HDMI input sources and output the selected signal to a single HDMI display. Beyond simple switching, it incorporates advanced audio and EDID management capabilities. The switcher can de-embed digital stereo audio, providing an analog audio source via a 3.5mm mini stereo audio jack, which is useful for integrating with existing audio systems. A notable feature is its support for Audio Return Channel (ARC) on HDMI Input 4, allowing audio from the connected display to be sent back to an HDMI input port, typically for an AV amplifier.
The device offers flexible control options, including a front panel "Auto/Source" button, an IR remote control, and RS232 commands. In auto-switch mode, it automatically detects and switches to a newly connected source. If an active source is removed, it defaults to the first available active input. Manual switching is also available via the front panel button or remote.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Video Inputs: 4x HDMI (Female type-A)
- Video Output: 1x HDMI (Female type-A)
- HDMI Input/Output Resolution: Up to 4Kx2K@60Hz 4:4:4
- HDMI Standard: 2.0
- HDCP Version: 2.3
- Bandwidth: 18Gbps
- Audio Output: 1x 3.5mm mini stereo audio jack (PCM, 70 Ohms, 20Hz to 20kHz, ±3dB)
- Control: 1x IR IN (3.5mm mini jack), 1x RS232 (3.5mm mini jack)
- EDID Management: 4-pin DIP switch for predefined EDID settings, user-defined EDID support via Micro-USB firmware upgrade.
- Power Supply: Input: 100V~240V AC; Output: 5V DC 1A
- Power Consumption: 5W (Max)
- Dimensions (WHD): 194mm x 15mm x 81mm
- Net Weight: 324g
- Operating Temperature: -10°C ~ +55°C
- Storage Temperature: -25°C ~ +70°C
- Relative Humidity: 10%-90%
Usage Features:
- Front Panel Controls:
- "Auto/Source" Button: Press to switch to the next input; press and hold for three seconds to toggle between manual and auto-switch modes.
- LED Indicators: Power (red), Audio Mode (green for de-embedding, yellow for ARC), Switching Mode (green for manual, yellow for auto-switch), Input 1-4 (green when HDMI input is present).
- IR Remote Control: Allows selection of input sources (1-4), toggling between manual/auto modes, and controlling source/display devices via CEC (Consumer Electronics Control). Note that HDMI Input 4 does not support CEC.
- RS232 Control: Connects to a control device (e.g., PC) for comprehensive control via RS232 commands. Commands include signal switching (e.g.,
>>HDMI1, >>AUTO), source device control (e.g., >>SRCOn, >>SRCPlay), display device control (e.g., >>TVOn, >>TVVOL+), audio selection (e.g., >>AUDExternal), and system control (e.g., >>RESET, >>SYSInfo). All RS232 commands must end with <CR><LF>.
- EDID Management:
- Predefined EDID: Ten types of embedded EDID settings are available, configurable via a 4-pin DIP switch on the rear panel. These settings cover various resolutions (e.g., 1080p, 4K@60Hz 4:4:4 HDR) and audio formats (Stereo, High Definition). A "Pass through" option is also available.
- User-Defined EDID: Up to five custom EDID settings (IDs 11-15) can be imported by renaming a
.bin file (e.g., EC_11_720P_LPCM.bin) and copying it to a "BOOTDISK" U-disk that appears when the switcher is connected to a PC via USB.
- ARC Mode: Supported on HDMI Input 4, enabling audio from the display to be sent to an AV amplifier connected to that input.
- CEC Support: Allows the IR remote to control source and display devices that also support CEC (except for HDMI Input 4).
Maintenance Features:
- Troubleshooting Guide: The manual provides a table of common problems (e.g., color loss, no signal, splash screen, control issues, static) with potential causes and solutions, such as checking cable connections, ensuring high-quality cables, verifying RS232 parameters, and proper grounding.
- Firmware Upgrade: The device supports firmware upgrades via a Micro-USB port on the rear panel. This involves renaming the upgrade file to "USERAPP.bin" and copying it to the "BOOTDISK" U-disk when the switcher is connected to a PC.
- Safety Precautions: The manual emphasizes important safety guidelines, including careful unpacking, following basic safety precautions (fire, electrical shock), avoiding dismantling or modifying the unit, using specified parts, referring servicing to qualified personnel, and protecting the unit from rain, moisture, heavy items, and liquids. It also advises on proper ventilation and disposal of scrapped devices.
- Customer Service: A three-year limited warranty is provided. Warranty exclusions include expiration, altered serial numbers, damage from normal wear and tear, non-compliant parts, lack of proof of warranty, mismatched product models, force majeure, unauthorized servicing, and shipping/installation charges. Customers are advised to contact their local distributor for assistance.