How to set up the Cisco Codec EQ, from unboxing to a working test. It's the room's codec: it runs the meeting platform and connects to the cameras, microphones, speakers and displays you choose for the room.
Before you start: check the box
- Codec EQ
- Power cord
What you need
- Ports on the Codec EQ: Video inputs: 3x HDMI (up to 4K30), 1x USB-C (up to 4K30), 4x PoE++ for video over IP; Video outputs: 3x HDMI (up to 4K60); Audio inputs: 3x mini-jack analog, HDMI, USB-C, USB-A, PoE++ audio over IP; Network: Gigabit LAN, 4x PoE++ (90 W budget), Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth (radio models).
- For appliance mode: a wired Ethernet drop (recommended over Wi-Fi), a display with HDMI input, a touch controller, and a Webex or Teams account and license for the room.
- For USB mode: a laptop or room PC with a free USB port that matches the included cable. Plug directly into the computer rather than through a hub where possible.
- Power: 100–240 VAC; 18 W active.
Step by step
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Find a home for it. Mount it behind the display or under the table where it gets airflow and the cables to the camera, display and controller reach without extenders.
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Connect power and cables. Connect the power adapter (or a PoE port, if you'd rather run one cable). Then connect the cables your setup needs (Video inputs: 3x HDMI (up to 4K30), 1x USB-C (up to 4K30), 4x PoE++ for video over IP; Video outputs: 3x HDMI (up to 4K60); Audio inputs: 3x mini-jack analog, HDMI, USB-C, USB-A, PoE++ audio over IP; Network: Gigabit LAN, 4x PoE++ (90 W budget)). Long runs may need the manufacturer's extender.
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Set up appliance mode. Follow the on-screen setup to choose the platform (Teams Rooms, Zoom Rooms or other) and sign in with the room's account.
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Set up USB mode. Connect the Codec EQ to the computer by USB. In Teams, Zoom or Meet, open the device settings and select the Codec EQ as the microphone and speaker.
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Update the firmware. Update to the latest firmware before you go live. See Updating the firmware below.
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Run a test call. Join a test meeting, talk from the farthest seat, and ask the far end whether you're clear, at a good level and without echo.
Updating the firmware
Update to the latest firmware before you go live, using the manufacturer's app or the device's settings.
- Don't unplug power or USB while an update runs.
- Close Teams, Zoom and other apps that use the device before updating it from a computer.
- Update one room first, test a call, then roll out to the rest.
Manual and documentation
Cisco's product page for the Codec EQ: documentation and downloads. Check it for exact port diagrams and admin settings for your firmware version.
If something doesn't work
Start with Codec EQ troubleshooting. Want it done for you? We plan rooms and ship them ready to install. Get a quote.
More Codec EQ guides
- Codec EQ buyer's guide: specs and price
- Codec EQ: troubleshooting
- Codec EQ: Teams, Zoom and Google Meet
- Codec EQ: what room size it covers
- Codec EQ: price and total room cost
- Codec EQ: full specs
- Codec EQ: alternatives compared
- Codec EQ: accessories
- All Cisco room kits compared
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