Speaka Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch User Manual

Content

SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-Directional Switch Manual

Introduction

The SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch is a compact HDMI switching solution for connecting two HDMI devices to one display or one HDMI source to two displays. Its bi-directional design makes it suitable for home entertainment systems, gaming setups, office presentations, classrooms, and small-scale media installations.

In two-source mode, the switch lets you connect devices such as a game console, Blu-ray player, streaming box, or computer to one television, monitor, or projector. In two-display mode, one HDMI source can be routed to either of two displays. A button on the switch selects the active connection, while LED indicators show the selected port.

The SP-BDS-120 supports UHD 4K video at up to 60 Hz, along with HDR and 3D content. It also supports high-quality audio formats including LPCM 7.1-channel audio, Dolby TrueHD, and DTS-HD Master Audio. Because the unit is designed for plug-and-play operation, no driver installation or separate power supply is required for basic use.

This HDMI bi-directional switch is best suited to users who need simple manual signal routing without the complexity of a powered HDMI matrix or multi-input AV receiver. It does not function as a splitter for displaying the same image on two screens simultaneously; only one connection can be active at a time.

Specifications

Product type: Manual bi-directional HDMI switch
Model: SP-BDS-120
Connection modes: Two HDMI sources to one display, or one HDMI source to two displays
Maximum video resolution: UHD 4K at 60 Hz, depending on the connected devices and HDMI cables
Additional video support: 4K at 30 Hz, 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 576p, 576i, 480p, and 480i
Video features: HDR and 3D support
HDCP: HDCP 2.0 support
Audio formats: LPCM 7.1-channel audio, Dolby TrueHD, and DTS-HD Master Audio
Operation: Manual switching using the integrated selection button
Status indication: LED indicators identify the active connection
Power: No additional power adapter required for standard operation
Installation: Plug and play; no software or drivers required
Enclosure: Compact metal housing designed for everyday installation use
Important limitation: Only one output display can be active at a time; simultaneous dual-display output is not supported

Setup Guide: How to Install the SP-BDS-120 HDMI Switch

Turn off the HDMI source devices and the display equipment before making connections.
Use suitable HDMI cables to connect the first device to HDMI port 1 and the second device to HDMI port 2.
For two-source-to-one-display operation, connect the television, monitor, or projector to the remaining HDMI connection designated for the display.
For one-source-to-two-display operation, connect the source device to the common HDMI connection and connect each display to one of the other ports.
Switch on the source device or devices and then power on the display equipment.
Press the selection button on the SP-BDS-120 to choose the required connection. The corresponding LED should illuminate.
Select the appropriate HDMI input on the television, monitor, or projector if it does not change automatically.

For reliable 4K performance, use good-quality, high-speed HDMI cables and keep cable runs as short as practical. If the picture is unstable, disconnect and reconnect each cable firmly, then test the setup at 1080p before restoring 4K and HDR settings. Never force an HDMI plug into a port, and do not connect or disconnect cables while equipment is exposed to moisture.

Troubleshooting the SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120

No picture or “No Signal” message

Confirm that the selected LED corresponds to the desired connection. Check that every HDMI plug is fully inserted and that the display is set to the correct HDMI input. Test each source directly with the display to identify a faulty cable or device.

Picture flickers or drops out

Use shorter, high-speed HDMI cables and reduce the source output temporarily to 1080p. Disconnect other HDMI equipment that may be causing signal-handshake problems, then restart the source, switch, and display.

4K or HDR is unavailable

Verify that the source, switch, display, and cables all support the required 4K and HDR format. Some combinations may fall back to a lower resolution when cable quality, HDCP compatibility, or display settings prevent the higher-bandwidth signal from passing.

No sound

Check the television or receiver audio input, confirm that the source is outputting a supported format, and test with stereo PCM if a surround format is not detected.

Switch does not respond

Power off all connected devices, remove the HDMI cables, wait briefly, and reconnect them in the recommended order. The SP-BDS-120 does not use user-programmable error codes; recurring faults should be handled through the retailer or manufacturer support channel listed in the product documentation.

Keep the switch dry, allow ventilation around the enclosure, and avoid bending HDMI cables sharply near the connectors. Retain the purchase documentation and original packaging for warranty or service requests.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Flexible routing: Supports two sources to one display or one source to two displays.
4K capability: Supports UHD 4K video at up to 60 Hz when the complete system is compatible.
Broad format support: Handles common HD resolutions, HDR, 3D, and advanced multichannel audio formats.
Simple operation: A physical button and LED indicators make source selection straightforward.
Plug-and-play design: No drivers, configuration software, or separate power adapter are needed for basic operation.
Compact construction: The metal enclosure is practical for desks, entertainment cabinets, and presentation equipment.

Limitations

No simultaneous display output: It cannot show the same source on two screens at the same time.
Manual switching only: Selection requires pressing the button rather than using automatic source detection or a remote control.
Limited expansion: Users needing several sources, multiple active displays, audio extraction, or matrix routing need a more advanced HDMI device.
Cable-dependent performance: 4K, HDR, and high-bandwidth audio depend on compatible source equipment, displays, HDCP negotiation, and HDMI cables.

The SP-BDS-120 suits users who want dependable, uncomplicated HDMI switching for a small setup. A powered HDMI matrix, larger multi-port switch, or active splitter is more appropriate for professional installations or simultaneous multi-screen presentation.

PDF

Faqs

How do I set up the SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch for the first time?

For two HDMI sources and one display, connect each source to the switch ports labeled HDMI 1 and HDMI 2, then connect the display to the shared HDMI port. Press the SELECT button to choose the active source; the corresponding indicator should light. For one source and two displays, connect the source to the shared port and the displays to HDMI 1 and HDMI 2. Only one display output is active at a time.

Can the SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch connect two devices to one TV?

Yes. The SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch can connect two HDMI sources, such as a game console and streaming device, to one television or monitor. Connect both sources to the numbered ports and the display to the common port. Use the SELECT button to change sources without repeatedly unplugging HDMI cables. The connected display must support the resolution and audio format sent by the selected source.

Can I use the SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch with two monitors?

Yes, but it functions as a selector rather than a simultaneous dual-monitor splitter. Connect one HDMI source to the shared port and connect the two monitors to the numbered ports. Press SELECT to choose which monitor receives the signal. Both screens cannot normally display the same source at the same time. This arrangement is useful when switching one laptop, media player, or console between two displays.

What should I do if the SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch shows no picture?

Check that every HDMI plug is fully inserted and that the source, switch, and display are powered on. Confirm that the correct port is selected by pressing SELECT and checking the indicator. Test with a different HDMI cable and connect the source directly to the display to isolate the fault. If the signal remains unstable, reconnect the USB power cable to a suitable USB power source, especially when using high-resolution video.

Does the SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch support 4K video?

The switch is designed for video resolutions up to 4K at 60 Hz, along with lower resolutions such as 1080p and 720p. For reliable 4K performance, use HDMI cables rated for the required bandwidth and ensure that the source and display both support the selected resolution and refresh rate. If the screen flickers or goes blank, temporarily select 1080p to determine whether the issue is cable quality or device compatibility.

Why does the HDMI signal flicker when using the SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch?

Signal flicker usually results from a loose connection, unsuitable HDMI cable, insufficient power, or a mismatch between the source and display settings. Reseat all cables, remove unnecessary adapters, and try shorter, higher-quality HDMI cables. Set the source to a lower resolution or refresh rate for testing. If the problem occurs only with 4K video, connect the included USB power lead to a stable USB port or wall adapter.

Does the SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch pass HDR, 3D, and surround sound?

The switch is intended to pass compatible HDMI video and audio signals, including 4K video, HDR, 3D content, and supported multichannel formats. Actual performance depends on the source, display, receiver, HDMI cables, and content. Connect the audio system through the display or HDMI signal path as required, then verify the television or receiver settings. If sound is missing, test with stereo PCM to identify an audio-format compatibility issue.

How should I clean and maintain the SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch?

Disconnect all HDMI and USB cables before cleaning the SpeaKa Professional SP-BDS-120 HDMI Bi-directional Switch. Wipe its housing with a soft, dry cloth and keep dust away from the HDMI ports. Do not use liquid cleaners, spray directly into the unit, or force connectors into the sockets. Avoid bending HDMI cables sharply and provide ventilation around the switch. Store it in a dry location when it is not being used.