Gefen DVI 3600HD Optical DVI/ USB 2.0 / RS-232/ Audio Extender

The Gefen DVI 3600HD Optical Extender is a high-performance video and control extension solution designed for professional AV installations, enterprise environments, and mission-critical display networks. This robust system lets you place a single DVI-enabled computer at a distant location while presenting the same workstation experience at a remote office, conference room, or control center. By transporting DVI signals along with USB 2.0, RS-232, and analog audio over a long-distance link, you gain ergonomic flexibility, centralized processing, and seamless user collaboration without sacrificing image fidelity or peripheral responsiveness. Whether you’re pairing a digital signage setup, a multi-monitor control room, or a high-end workstation cluster, the 3600HD performs reliably across extended distances, delivering crystal-clear visuals and precise input/output synchronization for demanding applications.

• Extends essential interfaces over long distances: The DVI 3600HD is engineered to extend DVI signals, USB 2.0, RS-232, and analog audio to remote workstations across up to 6,600 feet (2,000 meters). This capability unlocks new seating arrangements, multi-user collaboration spaces, and centralized IT management while preserving original signal integrity and performance. By leveraging optical transmission, it minimizes electromagnetic interference and crosstalk, ensuring clean video output and responsive peripheral operation even in challenging environments.
• Operate a single DVI computer from two workstations: Designed for scenarios where one computer needs to drive two separate work areas, this extender creates a seamless, synchronized experience between local and remote stations. Users can view the same desktop, run applications side-by-side, or manage centralized content distribution without sacrificing resolution, color accuracy, or latency. The system is ideal for control rooms, classrooms, editing suites, and clinical workspaces where sharing a powerful workstation across multiple locations boosts productivity and collaboration.
• USB 2.0 peripheral support at remote locations: The extender brings USB 2.0 connectivity to the remote workstation, enabling keyboards, mice, external drives, printers, webcams, and other USB peripherals to function as if they were connected locally. This is particularly valuable for editing rooms, laboratories, and field operations where specialized input devices must be accessed from a distance. The USB 2.0 channel maintains high-speed performance for data transfer and device control, ensuring responsive interaction with connected gear.
• Optical link for reliability and distance: Built to withstand demanding environments, the 3600HD uses an optical link to carry the DVI, USB, RS-232, and audio signals. This approach provides superior distance capabilities, enhanced EMI resistance, and stable operation across long cables that would otherwise degrade analog and digital signals. The result is consistent picture quality, dependable serial communications, and faithful audio reproduction across the extended setup—an essential requirement for professional AV deployments and mission-critical installations.
• RS-232 and analog audio extension for complete control and immersion: Beyond video and USB, the extender preserves RS-232 control signals and analog stereo audio, enabling serial device communication and immersive sound at the remote site. This is advantageous for professional equipment such as projectors, AV receivers, controlled lighting, and external sound systems. The ability to extend RS-232 and analog audio alongside DVI and USB ensures comprehensive system integration, reducing the need for multiple adapters or local hardware at the remote workstation.

Technical Details of Gefen DVI 3600HD Optical DVI/ USB 2.0 / RS-232/ Audio Extender

• Distance capability: Extends DVI, USB 2.0, RS-232, and analog audio up to 6,600 feet (2,000 meters) over a single link, enabling flexible placement of computers, displays, and peripherals far from the main workstation.
• Interfaces supported: DVI, USB 2.0, RS-232, and analog audio are transmitted to the remote workstation, preserving key input/output channels required for full workstation operation and peripheral compatibility.
• Transmission medium: Optical/fiber-based extension designed to resist EMI and environmental interference, delivering stable video and data transmission over long distances.
• Power requirements: External power supply or power delivery requirements are necessary for both ends of the extender to maintain reliable operation and full functionality of all extended interfaces.
• Compatibility and installation notes: The device is intended for use with standard DVI-enabled computers and compatible displays. For exact specifications, supported resolutions, and component compatibility, refer to the official product specifications in the distributor catalog (UPC/SKU) on the SYNNEX catalog.

How to install Gefen DVI 3600HD Optical DVI/ USB 2.0 / RS-232/ Audio Extender

• Plan the deployment: Determine the location of the host computer, the remote workstation, and where the DVI display, USB peripherals, audio equipment, and RS-232 devices will be connected. Ensure power access at both ends and verify that you have the appropriate DVI, USB, RS-232, and audio cables for the distance involved.
• Connect the local transmitter: At the computer end, connect the DVI output of the host computer to the local transmitter DVI input. Attach any required USB, RS-232, and analog audio cables from the computer to the corresponding ports on the local unit. Connect power to the transmitter and power it on.
• Link the remote receiver: In the remote workstation area, connect the remote display to the DVI output on the receiver. Attach USB devices to the remote USB ports, RS-232 devices to the RS-232 port, and connect analog audio cables to the audio jacks as needed. Provide power to the receiver and turn it on.
• Establish the optical link: Ensure the fiber/optical connection between the local transmitter and the remote receiver is properly seated and secured. Verify any status indicators on the units (LEDs) to confirm a healthy link and proper signal transport.
• Test the workspace: Power on the host computer and observe the remote monitor for the expected video output. Test keyboard and mouse input, USB peripheral responsiveness, RS-232 communication with any attached devices, and the audio path to confirm that all extended channels are functioning correctly.
• Optimize and adjust: If you encounter resolution or color issues, access the display settings at the host or remote workstation as needed to align EDID and aspect ratios. Ensure RS-232 device settings are configured to the correct baud rates and protocols. If necessary, consult the user manual for any EDID management or remote port configuration options available on your specific model.
• Security and maintenance: Keep the extenders in a secure location, away from potential tampering or environmental hazards. Periodically check fiber connectivity and power supplies to maintain peak performance, and keep firmware up to date if updates are provided by Gefen or the distributor.

Frequently asked questions

• What distances can I cover with the Gefen DVI 3600HD? The system is designed to extend DVI, USB 2.0, RS-232, and analog audio up to 6,600 feet (2,000 meters). This makes it suitable for large conference rooms, multi-room installations, and campus-scale AV deployments where remote display and control are required.
• Is USB 2.0 supported at the remote workstation? Yes. USB 2.0 peripherals can be connected at the remote end and function as if they were connected locally, enabling seamless interaction with keyboards, mice, external drives, and other USB devices connected to the remote workstation.
• Do I need special software to use the extender? In most cases, the Gefen DVI 3600HD operates as a plug-and-play extension solution for standard DVI displays and USB/RS-232 devices. No special software is typically required beyond driver support for connected USB peripherals and RS-232 device configuration, if applicable.
• Can I extend HDCP-protected content with this extender? Content protection such as HDCP support depends on the specific hardware revision and compatibility with the DVI source and display. Check the product specifications in the distributor catalog to confirm HDCP support for your exact configuration.
• What should I check if there is no video or peripheral response? First verify the optical link is properly seated and the power supplies are active. Check that the DVI input from the host computer is correctly connected, and that the monitor is configured for the appropriate resolution. Confirm USB peripherals are recognized by the remote workstation, and verify RS-232 devices are configured with the correct communication parameters.
• Are there any environmental considerations for installation? Ensure the extenders are placed in a clean, dust-free area with adequate ventilation. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight, and route cables away from high-traffic pathways or sources of electromagnetic interference to preserve signal integrity.