Shipping included*
Exclusions
Additional shipping fees may apply in rare circumstances for deliveries outside standard service areas. In most cases, this only potentially affects shipments to the Northwest Territories and Yukon, as well as certain heavy or oversized items.
IOGEAR GHSW8481 True 4K 8-Port HDMI Switcher - 4096 x 2160 @ 60Hz - Rack-Mountable - 8 x 1 - Display - Computer - TV
Business volume discounts
Technical guidance
Preparation & staging
QC · ON · AB · BC
Product Features
Technical Overview
This HDMI switcher handles 8 HDMI input devices such as computers, media players, gaming consoles, or set-top boxes, routing them to one HDMI display like a monitor, projector, or TV. It supports True 4K resolution at 4096x2160 with 4:4:4 chroma subsampling, ensuring sharp image quality and color accuracy for professional and entertainment applications.
The unit operates at high-speed data rates up to 18 Gbps, maintaining signal integrity for 4K@60Hz, HDR, and 3D content. It includes bi-directional RS-232 support for integration with universal remotes and touch panels, plus an IR extension cable for remote control flexibility in enclosed racks.
Relevant factors for this section include Connectivity Technology, Number of Input Devices Supported, Device Supported, Graphics Modes. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Key Product Advantages
The GHSW8481 simplifies complex AV setups by consolidating multiple HDMI sources into a centralized switching solution. Its rack-mountable design saves space in equipment racks, while the no-slip locking power supply ensures reliable operation in vibration-prone environments.
These strengths make the product easier to deploy and manage in real environments, especially where reliability, usability, and day-to-day operational continuity matter. Notable benefits include Advanced Control Options, Scalable Deployment.
Advanced Control Options
Manage switching via front-panel buttons, included IR remote, or RS-232 serial commands for automation systems.
- IR remote with extension cable
- Bi-directional RS-232 port
- Auto-switch detection
Scalable Deployment
Cascade up to three switchers for 512 total source ports, ideal for large digital signage networks or multi-display control rooms.
Deployment / Use Cases
This switcher is ideal for commercial AV installations where multiple HDMI sources need to be shared on a single display. Common applications include conference rooms with multiple laptops, digital signage systems cycling content from various players, home theaters with gaming and media devices, and control rooms monitoring multiple video feeds.
In educational settings, it enables instructors to switch between document cameras, computers, and Blu-ray players on a classroom projector. For live events, it provides reliable switching between cameras and playback systems on large displays, with RS-232 integration for touch-panel control.
Relevant factors for this section include Connectivity Technology, Number of Input Devices Supported, Device Supported, Graphics Modes. When those points are considered together, they give buyers a clearer picture of how the product is equipped, how it fits into deployment, and what kind of day-to-day role it is meant to support.
Physical Profile
The switcher features a compact rack-mountable chassis measuring 17.25" wide, 6.25" deep, and 1.75" high, occupying 1U of rack space. Its steel construction ensures durability in rack environments, while the included rack mounting kit simplifies installation. The front panel includes LED indicators for port status and control buttons for manual operation.
The physical profile is practical for deployment planning because the dimensions and weight are clearly defined: 1.75" (44.45 mm), 17.25" (438.15 mm), 6.25" (158.75 mm), 3.95 lb (1791.69 g). This helps confirm rack, shelf, desk, or cabinet fit before installation.
- Width
- 17.25" (438.15 mm)
- Depth
- 6.25" (158.75 mm)
- Height
- 1.75" (44.45 mm)
- Weight
- 3.95 lb (1791.69 g)
What's in the Box
The package includes all necessary components for immediate deployment and control.
Highlights
- Switch between 8 HDMI sources to 1 display with True 4K resolution up to 4096x2160 @ 60Hz
- Rack-mountable 1U form factor for professional AV rack integration
- Control via push-button, IR remote, or RS-232 serial for flexible operation
- Cascade up to 3 levels for 512 total source ports in large deployments
- Auto-switch mode detects and selects newly connected HDMI sources automatically
- Supports high-speed data rates up to 18 Gbps for 4K, HDR, and 3D content
- HDCP 2.2 compliant for protected content playback from Blu-ray and streaming devices
- No-slip locking power supply mechanism prevents accidental disconnection
- Includes IR extension cable for remote control in enclosed rack setups
- 3-year limited warranty with environmentally RoHS and WEEE compliant construction
Specifications
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | IOGEAR, Inc |
| Manufacturer Part Number | GHSW8481 |
| Brand Name | IOGEAR |
| Product Name | True 4K 8-Port Switcher with HDMI Connection |
| Packaged Quantity | 1 |
| Product Type | Audio/Video Switchbox |
| Technical Information | |
| Connectivity Technology | Cable |
| Number of Input Devices Supported | 8 |
| Device Supported | Display,Computer,TV |
| Number of Displays Supported | 1 |
| Video | |
| Graphics Modes | 4K |
| Maximum Video Resolution | 4096 x 2160 |
| Interfaces/Ports | |
| HDMI In | Yes |
| HDMI Out | Yes |
| Number of HDMI Inputs | 8 |
| Number of HDMI Outputs | 1 |
| Physical Characteristics | |
| Form Factor | Rack-mountable |
| Height | 1.75" (44.45 mm) |
| Width | 17.25" (438.15 mm) |
| Depth | 6.25" (158.75 mm) |
| Weight (Approximate) | 3.95 lb (1791.69 g) |
| Miscellaneous | |
| Package Contents | True 4K 8-Port Switcher with HDMI Connection 1 x IR Remote Control 1 x IR Extension Cable 1 x Power Adapter 1 x Rack Mounting Kit 1 x Quick Start Guide 1 x Warranty Card |
| Environmentally Friendly | Yes |
| Environmental Compliance | Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS),Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Warranty | |
| Limited Warranty | 3 Year |
FAQ
What is the maximum resolution supported by this HDMI switcher?
The IOGEAR GHSW8481 supports True 4K resolution up to 4096 x 2160 at 60Hz with 4:4:4 chroma subsampling. This ensures full 4K video quality for professional displays, digital signage, and home theater applications without compression artifacts.
How many devices can I connect to this switcher?
This switcher provides 8 HDMI input ports for connecting sources like computers, gaming consoles, media players, or cameras, and 1 HDMI output port for a single display. It supports devices including displays, computers, and TVs for versatile setup options.
Can I control this switcher remotely?
Yes, the switcher offers multiple control methods: front-panel push buttons, an included IR remote control with extension cable, and RS-232 serial control for integration with automation systems or touch panels. The auto-switch mode also automatically selects active inputs.
Is this switcher rack-mountable?
Yes, the GHSW8481 is designed for rack-mount installation with a 1U form factor measuring 17.25" wide, 6.25" deep, and 1.75" high. It includes a rack mounting kit for secure installation in standard 19" equipment racks.
What is the cascading capability of this HDMI switcher?
You can cascade up to three of these switchers to support a total of 512 HDMI source ports across multiple levels. This scalability makes it suitable for large digital signage networks, control rooms, or venues requiring extensive source management.
Does this switcher support HDCP 2.2?
Yes, the switcher is HDCP 2.2 compliant, ensuring compatibility with protected 4K content from devices like Blu-ray players, streaming boxes, and gaming consoles. This allows seamless playback of encrypted media without signal interruption.