Overview

Just Add Power devices serve as critical endpoints within an AV distribution system, interfacing directly with both sources and displays. When diagnosing system issues, it is essential to isolate variables to accurately determine whether a Just Add Power device is contributing to the problem or if the fault lies elsewhere in the AV infrastructure.

Conducting a point-to-point test between a Just Add Power Encoder and Decoder can effectively eliminate switch or network-related variables. This procedure is particularly valuable under the following conditions:

• Widespread video, audio, or control issues affecting all decoders in a standardized Just Add Power system.

• Intermittent or localized video, audio, or control anomalies within a multicast Just Add Power deployment.

• Suspected hardware faults or misconfigurations within the network switch.

Hardware Required

• 1x Video Source
• 1x Display Device
• 1x Just Add Power Encoder
• 1x Just Add Power Decoder
• 1x CAT5e or higher-rated Ethernet Cable
• Power Options (choose one):
  • 1x Multi-Port POE Injector
  • 2x Single-Port POE Injector
  • 2x Local Power Supplies

Refer to series-specific documentation for power supply specifications:

• MaxColor Series
• Ultra Series
• Omega Series
• 2G Series

Point-to-Point Test Procedure

1. Select Devices: Identify and remove the Encoder and Decoder units that are associated with the observed audio, video, or control issues.

2. Isolate Hardware: Physically disconnect the identified Encoder and Decoder from the operational network and bring them to a controlled test environment.

3. Establish Direct Connection: Use a single Ethernet cable to create a direct point-to-point link between the Encoder and Decoder.

4. Apply Power: Power both devices using the appropriate local power supplies or POE injectors.

5. Connect AV Interfaces: Connect the source device to the Encoder’s input and the display to the Decoder’s output.

6. Record and Report: Document the behavior observed during the point-to-point test. Contact Just Add Power Technical Support with the results to determine further troubleshooting steps.