Gefen HDMI, RS-232 and bi-directional IR Extender over IP - Sender

The Gefen HDMI, RS-232 and bi-directional IR Extender over IP – Sender is a high-performance solution engineered to transport HDMI video, RS-232 control signals, and bi-directional infrared commands across a standard Gigabit Ethernet network. Designed for sophisticated home theaters, corporate AV installations, digital signage, and hospitality environments, this Sender unit works in tandem with a compatible Gefen Receiver to create a scalable, IP-based distribution path. By leveraging your existing LAN infrastructure, it minimizes cable clutter while preserving picture quality, audio fidelity, and seamless device control over long distances. Whether you’re building a multi-room home theater, a conference room matrix, or a distributed signage system, the Sender unlocks flexible, reliable AV distribution without sacrificing performance or simplicity.

• Seamless HDMI, RS-232 and bi-directional IR extension over a Gigabit IP network, enabling reliable, room-to-room distribution with centralized management and scalable expansion as your AV needs grow. The Sender is designed to work with Gefen Receiver units to extend video, control, and IR signals across multiple zones, preserving synchronization and minimizing latency for smooth playback and responsive control.
• Supports resolutions up to 1080p Full HD and 1920x1200 (WUXGA) with HDCP, Deep Color, and 7.1-channel High Bit Rate (HBR) audio, plus Lip-Sync pass-through to ensure audio stays perfectly synchronized with on-screen action—critical for immersive home theaters and professional installations alike.
• Bi-directional IR and RS-232 pass-through enable comprehensive remote management: send commands from a display or control room to the source, and send responses back from the display to the control system, making it possible to control source devices, displays, and processors from any connected room with precision and reliability.
• Scalable architecture that leverages your existing LAN infrastructure, allowing multiple Sender and Receiver units to be deployed without rewiring or dedicated AV cabling. This makes it an ideal solution for multi-room residences, corporate environments, schools, and digital signage networks where scalable expansion is essential.
• Compact, rack-friendly Sender hardware designed for discreet installation behind displays, in equipment closets, or within AV racks. Its streamlined form factor and robust build simplify rack integration, power management, and heat dissipation while delivering consistent performance for long deployments.

Technical Details of Gefen HDMI, RS-232 and bi-directional IR Extender over IP - Sender

• Video support: Up to 1080p Full HD and 1920x1200 (WUXGA) resolutions with HDCP and Deep Color for vibrant, accurate images.
• Audio support: 7.1-channel High Bit Rate (HBR) digital audio with Lip-Sync pass-through to maintain perfect audio-visual synchronization.
• Control interfaces: RS-232 pass-through and bi-directional IR support for comprehensive remote control of source and display devices across connected rooms.
• Networking: Extends AV signals over a Gigabit Ethernet LAN; requires Gefen Receiver(s) to complete the link and deliver signals to displays in other zones.
• Connectivity: Integrated or external power option (as per product design) with standard networking and AV ports to simplify installation and integration into existing infrastructure.
• Security and compatibility: HDCP-compliant for protected content; designed for compatibility with Gefen’s ecosystem of extenders, ensuring reliable operation in mixed-brand environments where applicable.

How to install Gefen HDMI, RS-232 and bi-directional IR Extender over IP

• Plan your network and signal topology: Map out the source devices, the Gefen Sender, one or more Gefen Receivers, and the end displays. Ensure your Gigabit Ethernet network can handle AV bandwidth with minimal contention and supports QoS where possible to preserve latency and stability.
• Connect the HDMI source to the Sender: Use a high-quality HDMI cable to connect your video source to the Sender’s HDMI input. Route the Sender to your network via Ethernet, selecting a switch or router capable of reliable Gigabit throughput for AV data.
• Link the Receiver(s) to displays: Connect each display to a Gefen Receiver using HDMI, and place the Receivers in proximity to the displays. Each Receiver then connects to the same network and to the target display, enabling multi-room distribution from the single source.
• Establish RS-232 and IR connections: Attach RS-232 cables where control is required, and install IR emitters near each source and IR receivers near each display. Connect the IR hardware to the appropriate ports on the Sender and Receiver to enable two-way remote control across rooms.
• Power up and configure: Supply power to the Sender and each Receiver, then perform any required IP configuration or pairing according to the installation guide. Validate video, audio, lip-sync, and all control pathways across rooms by testing a sample source, ensuring room-to-room commands are correctly transmitted and that displays respond as intended.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What resolutions are supported by the Gefen HDMI, RS-232 and bi-directional IR Extender over IP? A: The system supports up to 1080p Full HD and 1920x1200 (WUXGA), enabling clear, detailed video across rooms while maintaining compatibility with modern displays and content.
• Q: Does this extender support HDCP and color depth? A: Yes. It is HDCP-compliant and supports Deep Color to deliver rich color detail and accurate image reproduction on compatible displays.
• Q: Can I control devices remotely using RS-232 and IR? A: Absolutely. The extender provides RS-232 pass-through and bi-directional IR, allowing you to control sources and displays from any connected room, enhancing centralized management and convenience.
• Q: What is the typical latency when using an HDMI over IP extender? A: The design minimizes latency to support real-time viewing and control. While exact numbers vary by network conditions and configuration, the system is optimized for near-instantaneous signal delivery suitable for high-quality AV experiences.
• Q: What infrastructure do I need for deployment? A: A Gigabit Ethernet network is required, along with Gefen Receiver units to complete the link to displays. A suitable power supply is also necessary for the Sender and Receivers, with proper ventilation in enclosed spaces.