Doctor HDMI will solve most HDCP/HDMI issues by just being connected between source and display. Once connected it can be set on the fly to perform specific EDID and Hot plug event.
There are a total of eight EDID banks inside the unit. When you press up or down button you can quickly move between any of them to select the desired one. Once you stop for a second or so, the system actually activates the selected EDID and starts the HPD (hot-plug) event. This is the event where Dr.HDMI will inform the source device that EDID has changed so the source must reconfigure it’s own internal settings. This takes about 2 seconds as per standards. During this time you will not be able to change the EDID. After HPD event concludes you are free to change edid again if wanted.

EDID stands for "Extended Display Identification Data," and it's a piece of information that is transmitted by a display or "sink" - a TV, a projector, or a monitor - to describe its audio and video capabilities to an AV "source," such as a Cable Box, Disc Player, or VidaBox system. Most important within this EDID is the video resolutions and audio setups supported for the sink device....

As many of you may have experienced - if you have multiple "sources" devices set up - such as a cable box, a gaming station, a disc player, and/or a VidaBox - and the user switches between these devices, there sometimes may be a significant delay for the video to re-appear.

Some may say that it's HDCP handling that causes this - but it may actually be caused by the source and sink devices trying to "sync up" on the EDID - not due to HDCP....

For example, on a standard DVD player (which has no HDCP that is present on Blu-ray and HD set-top boxes) - this same delay can be observed, and it is obviously not caused by HDCP. Worse - in some cases - with particular source and sink combinations - the video may not even come back unless the source is reset - making it a huge problem for AV integrators and installers!

In some cases, specific combinations of TV & receiver devices will create invalid EDIDs - causing some sink devices/sources to not show video correctly.

Most dealers are pretty familiar with HDCP and the issues that can come up with HDCP handshakes, keys, etc. - but are you familiar with EDID?

EDID stands for Extended Display Identification Data, and it's a piece of information that is transmitted by a display or "sink" - a TV, a projector, or a monitor - to describe its audio and video capabilities to an AV "source," such as a Cable Box, Disc Player, or VidaBox system. Most important within this EDID is the video resolutions and audio setups supported for the sink device. For example, reading the EDID from any standard HDTV panel, the EDID will most like read something like:

Video resolutions supported: 720p, 1080i, 1080p
Audio setups supported: 2.0 only

At the same time, if you connect an audio-video receiver (AVR) in the setup, the EDID from this same TV is now accepted into the AVR. Say if the AVR supports the full 7.1 HD surround sound formats - the AVR will actually strip/take out the "audio format" data from the EDID, and inject its own, as follows:

ORIGINAL EDID:
Video resolutions supported: 720p, 1080i, 1080p
Audio setups supported: 2.0 only

RECEIVER EDID ADDED:
Audio setups supported: 2.0, 5.1, 7.1

NEW EDID:
Video resolutions supported: 720p, 1080i, 1080p
Audio setups supported: 2.0, 5.1, 7.1

Thus, a source device will now detect that the setup supports both 1080p and 7.1 surround sound.

THE ISSUES

As many of you may have experienced - if you have multiple "sources" devices set up - such as a cable box, a gaming station, a disc player, and/or a VidaBox Media System - and the user switches between these devices, there sometimes may be a significant delay for the video to re-appear.

Some may say that it's HDCP handling that causes this - but it may actually be caused by the source and sink devices trying to
"sync up" on the EDID - not due to HDCP.

For example, on a standard DVD player (which has no HDCP that is present on Blu-ray and HD set-top boxes) - this same delay can be observed, and it is obviously not caused by HDCP. Worse - in some cases - with particular source and sink combinations - the video may not even come back unless the source is reset - making it a huge problem for AV integrators and installers!

In some cases, specific combinations of TV & receiver devices will create invalid EDIDs - causing some sink devices/sources to not show video correctly.

... So what's an installer to do?

THE SOLUTION

In these cases, a "fix" is needed to do all of the following to prevent the above issues:
- Preserve the EDID that is being transmitted by the source
- Present this same EDID to the sink, constantly
- Totally remove and inject a "new" EDID if the source device's original EDID is invalid

Since HDMI is becoming more and more prevalent in any installation, VidaBox carries a device called the "Dr. HDMI" - which helps installers eliminate the above issues in their AV installations. Included for free with most premium VidaBox media centers and media extenders, "Dr. HDMI" helps resolve these issues when sources are switched on a TV or receiver:
- Minimize the lag time for video to return
- Help eliminate "loss of video"
- For source devices w. invalid EDIDs, a "corrected" EDID can be injected midstream to allow normal AV operation

Again - best of all - it's included for FREE with most VidaBox system purchases!


HOW IT WORKS

"Dr. HDMI" is quite simple to install. Every kit comes with:
A. The "Dr. HDMI" device itself
B. an HDMI Cable
C. A USB Power Cable (not needed in most cases)

Simply follow these simple steps:

1. Connect the source device to the INPUT
2. Connect the OUTPUT side to your TV, receiver, or projector
3. You're pretty much set with a preconfigured 1080p, 3D capable EDID!

Just 1 device + 30 seconds of installation time can save tons of headaches!

Dr. HDMI is pre-programmed with (5) different EDIDs at the factory, eliminating the requirement to learn an EDID. You can easily learn a new EDID as follows:

1. Press UP on the Dr. HDMI until the LED for EDID Bank #8 is highlighted
2. Press the circular "Sync" button on the Dr. HDMI
3. The HPD light blinks - and once solid again, the EDID is learned

If you press the middle button, the display’s EDID is copied and placed into the EDID bank number 8. Once it is done, HPD event is also created and completes in about 2 seconds.

EDID banks ated are separas follows:
1-5 : are presets factory configured and cannot be changed by user. However, They can be updated with a firmware update.
6-7 : are user configurable by the PC software.
8 : is the reserved one for downloading from the display.

This device also has internal logic to support HDCP streams by sniffing all DDC packets and filtering the EDID requests but passing all HDCP handshakes.

The PC software can be used to edit any of the parameters on the fly or it can be used to load/save any customer EDID.

Power is either drawn from the HDMI connector or from the USB port if connected.

Firmware upgrades can be sent with a single .exe file automatically so no additional software is needed. Just launch the .exe.
To fix compatibility or handshake issue between source and display you can also try to move the switch on the side in one or the other position.
 

List of Banks

1. Full, unlimited, all 3D features enabled
2. Full, unlimited, no 3D features
3. 1080i limited – no 3D
4. 720p limited – no 3D
5. 480/576p limited -no 3D
6&7 are special cases which initially hold the same info as #1 but they can be altered with PC software to be anything
8. is the display EDID which can be read by pushing the middle button.
(Once you push the middle button, the contents are read from display and stored to #8 and it is activated)

Dr HDMI can help to solve most HDMI issues such as handshaking issue, compatibility issue and/or any EDID related issue. It help to keep a source always ON or tricked into a defined state which is especially useful for system integrators.

Dr HDMI can also boost signal integrity and extend +5v signal through a HDMI/DVI-D chain. For example, it can work hands in hands with HDfury products such as Gamer Edition to extend compatibility range. It can also be used to limit the source output resolution.

Dr HDMI acts as an EDID manager, HDMI/DVI-D emulator and repeater that comes with pre-defined presets, user programmable banks, Sink EDID sniffing bank and more !

Highlight Features

• Solve Most HDMI issues !
• Fix HDMI handshaking issue
• EDID Manager and Detective feature
• Easy EDID table manipulation via USB port
• HDMI/DVI-D emulator and repeater
• Maintain 2K, 19200×1200, 1080p video without losing sync.
• Predefined Banks (FullHD 3D, FullHD, 1080i, 720p, etc..)
• User programmable EDID Banks
• Sink EDID sniffing feature
• Extand signal integrity up to 50 meters !
• Can work standalone without any PSU connected (taking power from HDMI)
• HDCP compliant

Specifications

• HDMI 1.4a compliance
• 8 EDID banks (5 pre-defined, 2 user programable, 1 copy from Sink device)
• Reset HPD-event on the fly !
• Up to 50 meters cable loss compensation
• Keep source’s HDMI/DVI-D output active
• USB upgradable and flashable from computer
• User programmable EDID Banks
• Sink EDID sniffing feature
• Extand signal integrity up to 50 meters !
• HDMI Pin14 on/off siwtch to fix HEAC/ARC compatibility issue
• Any resolution including HDMI standards
• Video Bandwidth : 2.25 Gbps
• Video support: Single-link 225Mhz, 2k, WUXGA, 1080p60/12bit deep color and x.v.color
• Audio support: Dolby True HD & DTS Master Audio
• Input cable equalization
• Support extended EDID CEA861, 256 byte
• HDCP Pass-Through
• Lip Sync Pass-Through
• CEC Protocol Pass-Through
• Power : Universal USB power adaptor
• Compliance: HDCP/FCC/CE
• Warranty : 1 year (extendable)
• Dimension : 60mm W x 40mm D x 20mm H
• Net weight : 50 gramms
• Input/Output connector: HDMI female
• USB: Mini USB-B female connector

What output power Dr.HDMI can supply ?

When used with a power supply connected to the USB, it will give as much as the power supply is capable.
When used without a power supply (powering from HDMI) it will give whatever it can take from HDMI connector. Usually 50-500mA.

How do you switch between Banks ?

There are a total of eight EDID banks inside the unit. When you press up or down button you can quickly move between any of them to select the desired one. Once you stop for a second or so, the system actually activates the selected EDID and starts the HPD (hot-plug) event. This is the event where Dr.HDMI will inform the source device that EDID has changed so the source must reconfigure it’s own internal settings. This takes about 2 seconds as per standards. During this time you will not be able to change the EDID. After HPD event concludes you are free to change edid again if wanted.
If you press the middle button, the display’s EDID is copied and placed into the EDID bank number 8. Once it is done, HPD event is also created and completes in about 2 seconds.

Doctor HDMI - Complete Instructions

Quick Installation Guide

- Connect HDMI video source to INPUT
- Connect OUTPUT to TV, receiver, etc.
- Setup is complete with a "Full HD 3D" EDID
(This will be compatible and suitable for most modern installations.)

List of pre-loaded EDIDs

You can select one of the pre-loaded EDID below by using the up/down buttons on the Doctor HDMI

1) 1080p, Full HD 3D (5.1 Audio)
2) 1080p, Full HD Non-3D (5.1 Audio)
3) Limits video to 1080i
4) Limits video to 720p
5) Limits video to 480/576p
6) Custom Storage 1
7) Custom Storage 2
8) Learn/Use Stored EDID

How to Learn a new EDID onto the Doctor HDMI?

The Doctor HDMI device can learn a new EDID at any time by following the steps below.

This should only be done in scenarios where 7.1 surround sound is needed, or a specific EDID is required for proper operation of the system. In other instances, using one of the standard / default EDIDs should work fine.

1) Plug your video sink (TV, projector, or receiver) into the OUTPUT of the Doctor HDMI, as shown below.

(If you have a matrix switcher, consider using one of the default EDIDs which would be compatible with all displays in your setup. Further discussion at the FAQ below.*)


2) The Doctor HDMI should now light up in BLUE once it has power.

Press the Up button, until LED #8 is highlighted, signifying that "Slot #8" is selected.


3) Hit the "Learn EDID" button in the center of the Doctor HDMI.

You'll see the HPD LED blink once, signifying that the EDID has been learned.

4) You're all set - the EDID is now stored into "Slot #8."

Connect your video source to the INPUT, and it'll always see the store EDID as long as "Slot 8" is selected!

Doctor HDMI - FAQs and Troubleshooting

Question: Is this device HDCP Compliant?

Answer: Yes, the device is fully HDCP Compliant and is a fully licensed, OEM product.

Question: Does this eliminate or strip out HDCP?

Answer: No, Doctor HDMI does not strip out or remove HDCP. It is designed for storing & emulating an EDID, and does not tamper with HDCP at all. If your source device requires HDCP, but your video sinks are not HDCP compliant (such as a TV that is too old), the Doctor HDMI will not be able to solve your video problem.

Question: I'm not getting any video - what can I do?

Answer: First - remember that many devices, including VidaBox Media Systems, do not always carry out hot-swap HDMI connections correctly. Simple power off the device, and power it back on. Once it sees the Doctor HDMI connected, video will most likely come back.

If the video still does not appear after multiple power-cycles, try the following, in sequence:

• Make sure the HDMI cables for INPUT and OUTPUT aren't switched on the Doctor HDMI
• Double-check all HDMI cables in the chain, and make sure they're connected properly and working.

If the issue persists, proceed to troubleshoot:

• Try learning the EDID from your video sink (TV, Projector, or Display+Receiver combination) onto the Doctor HDMI, and try again.
• If it doesn't work - then the issue is not with the Doctor HDMI. We'll need to identify the "problem-causing device" in your setup as follows:

Identifying a "problem-causing HDMI device"

• Connect your video source directly into a TV/monitor/projector, WITHOUT the Doctor HDMI or any receivers. Connection should be as direct as possible.
• If you get video, add one more device into your "HDMI chain" - such as a receiver, a balun, or a matrix switch.
• Add only (1) device at a time, and observe the outcome. Do not try to add more than (1) device - or you will not be able to identify the "problem-causing device".
• If all devices in the "HDMI chain" are added in, then learn the EDID onto the Doctor HDMI.

Question: Do I need to load custom EDID profiles to use the Doctor HDMI?

Answer: No, the majority of installations can make use of one of the (5) default settings available. Unless you need 7.1 sound, or otherwise specifically instructed, there is no need to program a custom EDID onto the Doctor HDMI.

Doctor HDMI - Uploading a new EDID

First, download and extract the following files:

• 1. Firmware upload program / Dr. HDMI EDID Utility: >> DOWNLOAD HERE <<<
• 2. Dr. HDMI Drivers: >>>DOWLOAD THE DR HDMI DRIVERS HERE <<<
• 3. EDID files:>>> DOWNLOADE THE EDID FILES HERE <<<

Then, follow these steps:

• 1) Extract and run USBXpressInstaller.exe to load drivers for the Dr. HDMI. (You will need to Right-click on the EXE, then "Run as Admin" with Administrative Privileges

2) Connect your Dr. HDMI to your PC now. Under "Device Manager," it shoudl be recognized as "USBXpress Device".

• 3) Extract and run EDIDutil_v1.0.exe on your PC.
• 4) Select the EDID Bank that you want to write the custom EDID to.
• 5) Then, select "LOAD FR0M FILE"...

•  6) ...and choose the EDID file you want to load.

• 7) Click on Write EDID - and the upload process will start
• 8) Once it's complete, you'll see a message on the bottom left: "EDID values written..." confirming a successful upload.
  
  

More information on www.drhdmi.eu