ATEN VS1208T 8-Port Cat5 Audio/Video Distribution Unit

Overview

The VS1208T is a rack-mount AV distribution unit that splits one audio/video source to eight outputs delivered over standard Cat5/5e/6 cabling — eliminating the cost and bulk of running dedicated coax or HDMI runs across a facility. The VS1208T supports resolutions up to 1920x1200 at 60Hz over distances up to 150m, or 1280x1024 at 60Hz up to 300m, making it practical for conference rooms, digital signage networks, control rooms, and campus-wide display deployments where source-to-screen distances exceed what direct HDMI can cover. Power is supplied via a dedicated DC jack; audio output is via a single Mini Stereo Jack (3.5mm female, green) for local monitoring or connection to an amplifier. A 75Ω impedance design preserves signal integrity across the Cat5 runs. This unit is part of the broader ATEN AV distribution and KVM line, which covers matrix switches, extenders, and scalers for integrated AV and IP environments.

Compatibility

The VS1208T is designed to work with ATEN VS-series compatible receivers at the remote end of each Cat5 run — pair it with ATEN VE-series or VS-series Cat5 receivers appropriate to your target resolution and distance. Source input must match the unit's supported signal type; verify the input connector on your specific configuration before deployment. Standard Cat5, Cat5e, or Cat6 unshielded twisted-pair cabling is suitable for all supported distances. For structured cabling planning in multi-display installs, review your AV distribution infrastructure to confirm panel and patch bay compatibility. Integrators deploying alongside managed PoE switches for IP-based AV hybrid environments should note this unit requires its own DC power supply — it does not draw PoE.

Installation Notes

Maximum cable run from the VS1208T to any receiver is 300m at reduced resolution (1280x1024@60Hz) or 150m at full 1920x1200@60Hz — plan your cable routes accordingly before pulling wire. The unit is rack-mountable; note that ATEN expresses physical dimensions for rack products in LxWxH format rather than the standard WxDxH convention — confirm orientation when ordering rack space. Operating humidity must remain between 0–80% RH non-condensing; avoid installations in unconditioned spaces subject to condensation. The carton ships in lots of 5 units, relevant for project-quantity procurement. Consult a cabling and signal extension guide for run-length planning when mixing resolutions across outputs.