Monoprice Blackbird 15252

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Summary

Safety Warnings and Guidelines

General Safety Precautions

Advises on safe operation, avoiding water, high temperatures, and unauthorized modifications.

Connection

Connection Steps

Provides a step-by-step guide for connecting the HDMI splitter, displays, and source device.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Guide

Addresses common issues like no video or resolution problems, offering solutions and checks.

This document outlines the features, usage, and maintenance of the Monoprice Blackbird™ 4K 1x2 HDMI® Splitter, Model 15252. This device is designed to allow users to simultaneously view the same HDMI video content on two separate displays. It's a convenient solution for setups requiring duplicate video output from a single source, such as in presentations, retail displays, or home entertainment systems where a single source needs to feed multiple screens.

Function Description

The Blackbird™ 4K 1x2 HDMI® Splitter acts as a signal duplicator, taking one HDMI input and distributing it to two HDMI outputs. This means that whatever video and audio content is being played from your source device (e.g., DVD player, gaming console, streaming box) will be simultaneously displayed on two connected HDMI-enabled screens. The splitter is compliant with HDMI® 2.0 and HDCP™ 2.2/1.4 specifications, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of modern HDMI devices and content protection standards.

A key feature of this splitter is its support for high-resolution video, including resolutions up to 4K@60Hz. This makes it suitable for use with the latest 4K televisions and monitors, delivering crisp and clear visuals. It also supports 3D video, catering to immersive viewing experiences, and various computer resolutions up to 1920x1200p, making it versatile for both entertainment and professional applications. The device boasts an 18Gbps bandwidth, which is crucial for handling all High Speed HDMI® features, including 36-bit Deep Color, which allows for a wider range of colors and more nuanced gradients, and high-definition multichannel uncompressed audio, ensuring a rich audio experience alongside the video.

One of the most user-friendly aspects of this splitter is that it is HDMI bus powered. This means it draws the necessary power directly from the HDMI input connection, eliminating the need for an external power adapter in most cases. This simplifies installation and reduces cable clutter. However, an optional external power source (not included) can be connected if transmission difficulties are encountered, providing flexibility for setups with lower power HDMI sources or longer cable runs. The connectors on the device are gold-plated, which helps to ensure a reliable connection and minimize signal degradation over time.

Usage Features

Setting up the Blackbird™ 4K 1x2 HDMI® Splitter is designed to be straightforward. Before connecting any devices, it's recommended to ensure all equipment is powered off and unplugged from their power sources to prevent any potential damage or signal issues.

The connection process involves using Premium High Speed HDMI® Cables (not included). First, connect one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI input on your first display and the other end to the HDMI OUTPUT 1 port on the splitter. Next, connect another HDMI cable from the HDMI input on your second display to the HDMI OUTPUT 2 port on the splitter. Finally, plug the HDMI INPUT lead on the splitter into the HDMI output port of your video source device.

Once all connections are made, you can power on all connected devices and begin video playback from your HDMI video source. The splitter features indicator LEDs to help confirm proper operation:

LINK LEDs (OUTPUT1, OUTPUT2): These LEDs illuminate when a video display is successfully connected to the respective output and video content is actively being played.
INPUT LED: This LED illuminates when a connected HDMI® source is playing video content, indicating that the splitter is receiving a signal.
POWER: While typically bus-powered, if you experience transmission difficulties, an external power source can be connected to this port to provide additional power.

If you encounter any issues, the manual provides a troubleshooting section. For instance, if there's no video on either display, you should verify that the video source is powered on and playing content, check that the HDMI INPUT lead is fully seated, and confirm that the INPUT LED is illuminated. If necessary, try connecting an external power source. If video is present on one display but not the other, check the power and input selection of the problematic display, verify HDMI cable connections, and consider swapping the HDMI cable with a known good one. If 4K@60Hz video isn't displaying properly while lower resolutions are, ensure you are using Premium High Speed HDMI Cables that support 18Gbps bandwidth, as this is crucial for higher data rates.

Maintenance Features

The Blackbird™ 4K 1x2 HDMI® Splitter is designed for indoor use only. To ensure its longevity and proper functioning, several safety warnings and guidelines should be followed:

Moisture Protection: Do not expose the device to water or any kind of moisture. Avoid placing drinks or other containers with moisture on or near the device. If moisture accidentally gets into or onto the device, immediately disconnect it from all equipment and allow it to fully dry before attempting to reuse it.
Temperature Control: Do not expose the device to excessively high temperatures. Keep it away from heat sources such as fireplaces, stoves, radiators, or direct sunlight.
Cleaning: For cleaning, use only a soft, dry cloth. Avoid chemical cleaners, solvents, or detergents. For stubborn deposits, a cloth moistened with warm water can be used.
No User Serviceable Parts: The device does not contain any user-serviceable parts. Do not attempt to open, service, or modify the device yourself. Any unauthorized alteration could void warranties and potentially damage the unit.
Operational Issues: In the event of a serious operating problem, discontinue use of the unit immediately.
Corrosive Materials: Keep the device away from corrosive materials to prevent damage to its components.

Following these guidelines will help maintain the device's performance and extend its lifespan. In case of any technical difficulties or questions that cannot be resolved through the troubleshooting guide, Monoprice offers free, live, online technical support. This support is available via Live Chat on their website (www.monoprice.com) or through email (support@monoprice.com), providing assistance with installation, setup, troubleshooting, and product recommendations. This ensures that users have access to expert help if they encounter any issues beyond basic troubleshooting.