Switchers

Kramer Electronics

8 Port Firewire Switcher

The Kramer VS-81FW is a high quality mechanical eight port switcher for FireWire(IEEE 1394) signals, using six-pin FireWire connectors. It is designed for applications requiring a compact desktop unit for routing FireWire signals (Digital Video, Data, etc.,) between any two of eight sources or acceptors. The machine allows connection of up to 8 bidirectional sources/acceptors and activation of a link between any pair of machines, allowing for example, simple wiring in small DV production studios. Note that the VS-81FW can only provide one signal path at any given time (one active crosspoint)- it cannot distribute a signal to multiple outputs simultaneously. The unit switches over the power as well, thus allowing powering of one FireWire device from another one connected to the switcher (for example, powering a hub/distributor from a FireWire card). High quality switching components and carefully designed circuits provide excellent isolation between inputs, and make the VS-81FW ideal for high speed signals up to 400 MB/s. In addition, its unpowered design can be an advantage in applications where various regulatory compliances would otherwise be required.