Instruction manual

Overview and General Specifications

Octaire Instruction Manual

Because the video enclosures look identical, it is crucial that they are cabled according to the labels on

the rear and the “Octaire AutoPatch Connector Guide” (see page 96), which is included in the shipment

(also see “Linking Enclosures” on page 19).

Note: On a multi-enclosure system, the primary enclosure is the one with a control panel (and a

TCP/IP port) and is the point of control for the system.

Octaire Features

 Ultra-flat response (bandwidth curve measured at a tight +/-3 dB)

 Ultra-wideband video bandwidth for UWB enclosures in any routing state, including fully

loaded – averaging 600 MHz, while maintaining 500 MHz at the ultra-flat response minimum

 High bandwidth-linearity and low crosstalk

 Detection, Assignment, and Configuration (DAC) firmware that automatically recognizes and

configures each enclosure, sequences them, and generates a united, single feature solution

 Switch any input to any or all outputs in any combination and disconnect any or all outputs

 Breakaway to route video, audio, or audio-follow-video

 Global presets

 Vertical interval synchronization of video signals

 Dual power feeds and redundant power supplies

 Standard RS-232

 Service Access Spacing (twice the space between connectors) – making BNC cable

connections easy

 Standard Warranty (see warranty at www.amx.com or on the AMX AutoPatch CD)

 24-hour technical support

Octaire Control Features

In addition to the front control panel (standard with all Octaire systems), which is mounted on the

primary enclosure, several control options are available. (The Octaire cannot be controlled with a remote

control panel.) Multiple control methods can be used on the same system.

 The Octaire, which supports Device Discovery, is compatible with a number of AMX control

devices. For control programming information, see the instruction manual for the specific

interface.

 APControl 3.0 software (free with all systems)

 APWeb (TCP/IP control)

 Supports AMX AutoPatch’s simple BCS* (Basic Control Structure) serial control protocol

 Supports AMX AutoPatch’s XNNet protocol

 Supports third-party controllers

* BCS is sent as ASCII characters through the RS-232 port.

Important: Device Discovery functionality (beacon response) will only function properly if the

NetLinx master is connected to the RS-232 control port on the primary enclosure (the one with the

control panel). The RS-232 ports on the secondary enclosures are intended for single enclosure

diagnostic information and system firmware upgrades.

Features and specifications described in this document are subject to change without notice.