INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS MODEL MRC88 EIGHT ZONE – EIGHT SOURCE AUDIO/VIDEO CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER SYSTEM
Page: 2 Model MRC88 SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS - READ BEFORE OPERATING EQUIPMENT CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK) NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of un-insulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
Model MRC88 Page: 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS - READ BEFORE OPERATING EQUIPMENT...........................................................2 TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................................................................................3 SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION & FEATURES........................................................... 8 GENERAL INFORMATION ..........................................................................
Page: 4 Model MRC88 DB9 Serial Connection .......................................................................................................................... 38 USB Serial Connection .......................................................................................................................... 38 SOFTWARE INSTALLATION .................................................................................................................. 38 STARTING MRC88 DRAGON DROP-IR™ SOFTWARE .............
Model MRC88 Page: 5 Paste ......................................................................................................................................................54 EDITING COMMANDS (IN THE MACRO COMMAND LIST WINDOW) ...................................................... 54 IR In Zone .............................................................................................................................................55 Source Output ...................................................
Page: 6 Model MRC88 PROGRAMMING INTERNAL AMPLIFIER COMMANDS................................................................................. 72 ZONE EXPANSION (CONNECTING MULTIPLE MRC88 CONTROLLERS).................................................. 74 PROGRAMMING IN EXPANDED MODE............................................................................................... 75 Enabling EXPANDED Mode............................................................................................................
Model MRC88 Page: 7 © 2003 Xantech Corporation
Page: 8 Model MRC88 Section 1: General Information & Features GENERAL INFORMATION The Xantech MRC88 System is the next generation in Whole-house Audio/Video Entertainment (WAVE™) family of products - the first being the MRC44. This is a revolutionary whole-house audio/video entertainment distribution, audio amplification and control system. The MRC88 System consists of the MRC88 Controller/Amplifier, Eight LCD Keypads and Eight IR Emitters.
Model MRC88 Page: 9 IMPORTANT NOTE: A MRC88 System can be a single controller with keypads for up to Eight zones or two connected controllers and keypads for up to Sixteen zones. There are three different setup modes in the Dragon Drop-IR Software. The Basic mode allows quick setup and programming for an Eight zone system. It assumes all zones will use factory defaults and will behave exactly the same.
Page: 10 Model MRC88 SYSTEM OVERVIEW The MRC88 is a Eight-source Eight-zone audio/video distribution and control system. The System is comprised of a Control Amp, Eight LCD Keypads, and Eight 283M IR Emitters. Together the Control Amp and the Keypads make up a Whole-house Audio/Video Entertainment system. The Control Amp acts as the Server and the Keypads act as the Clients. The end users interact with the Keypads in order to control all aspects of Audio/Video Distribution and Control.
Model MRC88 Page: 11 CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER FEATURES • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Zones: Eight, expandable to 16-zones with the addition of a second Controller/Amplifier and additional keypads Sources: Eight audio AND VIDEO sources. Any zone can select any source. Same source can be selected in multiple zones. Several modes of control: Whole-house mode – selection and control of any source from any zone.
Page: 12 Model MRC88 KEYPAD FEATURES • • • • • • • • • • • • • Flush-mount, snap-in wall unit with universal wall mounting plate. Requires a 4" x 4" hole cutout in wall (use included template). Connects to MRC88 Controller/Amplifier via CAT5 cable terminated with RJ45 connectors. Configurable LCD panel (via supplied Dragon Drop-IR™ software). 20 buttons (8 source select, 11 function, 1 power). Programmable dual functionality (tiered) “push-and-hold” on most buttons.
Model MRC88 Page: 13 MRC88 CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER PANEL AND FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS 4 1 3 PROTECT OFF ON 6 2 11 PROTECT OFF ON 12 5 8 10 9 7 14 13 15 Figure 2 – The Model MRC88 Controller/Amplifier – Front Panel Features and Functions MRC88 FRONT PANEL FEATURES AND CONNECTIONS: 1. Front Panel. 2. Chassis Feet. Set high enough to provide through-chassis cooling by natural convection. 3. Master AC Line On/Off Switch. Turns AC power On/Off to the entire unit. 4. Power and Status LED Indicators.
Page: 14 Model MRC88 Zone Status (Active-Operational Mode) a) Steady Green – indicates that the Zone is Active (Keypad ON), is not muted and is not within 5 dB of MAX-V. b) Steady Red – indicates that the Zone is Active, is not muted and is within 5 dB of MAX-V. c) Slow Green Blink – indicates that the Zone is in the Active, is muted and is not within 5 dB of MAX-V. d) Slow Red Blink – indicates that the Zone is Active, is muted and is within 5 dB of MAX-V.
Model MRC88 Page: 15 30 27 22 23 26 20 24 29 31 25 19 28 32 17 18 16 34 33 21 Figure 3 – The Model MRC88 Controller/Amplifier – Rear Panel Connections and Functions MRC88 REAR PANEL FEATURES AND CONNECTIONS: 16. Keypad Terminals (8). Each Zone has one RJ-45 jack for Keypad Interface. Each connector interfaces the following: Power (Enough for 1 Primary & up to 4 Secondary Keypads per Zone), RS-485 Data I/O, and IR Input. 17. Speaker Terminals (6).
Page: 16 Model MRC88 23. Source Loop-Thru Connections (8). a) Audio Loop-Thru. Parallel Connection to Audio Inputs for connecting Audio Source to another MRC88 in Expanded Mode or to other local devices. This is not an active output. b) Video Loop-Thru. Buffered Video Connection for connecting Input Video Source to another MRC-88 in Expanded Mode or to other local devices. NOTE: Since this is a Buffered video connection, this loopthru is not active when POWER is removed from the MRC88 24.
Model MRC88 Page: 17 MRC88 KEYPAD FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS 7 6 5 3 2 4 8 11 12 9 13 14 10 1 Figure 4 – The Model MRC88 Keypad – Front Panel Features and Functions MRC88 KEYPAD - FRONT FEATURES: 1. MRC88 Keypad. 2. Power. Turns the zone ON and OFF. Can be programmed with IR codes or sequences. 3. IR Sensor. Receives IR from hand-held remotes to control both source components and the MRC88 system.
Page: 18 Model MRC88 d) Fast Red Blink = IR Sensor INPUT or Keypad OUTPUT e) Fast Amber Blink = System BUSY 5. LCD Display. When the zone power is ON, the LCD will indicate the selected source, zone volume level, zone and system status and other system conditions. The display is automatically backlit when any button is pressed (backlight is programmable via Dragon Drop-IR™ software). 6. Source 1-4 Selector Buttons.
Model MRC88 Page: 19 19 18 20 17 21 JP1 JP2 23 22 16 15 24 Figure 5 – The Model MRC88 Keypad – Rear Panel Features and Functions MRC88 KEYPAD - REAR FEATURES AND CONNECTIONS: 15. Controller Terminal. RJ45 Jack. Connects Keypad to zone keypad input on MRC88 Controller via CAT5 cable. 16. Expansion Terminal. RJ45 Jack. Allows keypad to be daisy chained to another keypad for multiple control locations within a zone. Up to 4 keypads are supported per zone. 17. Keypad Address. Pair of Jumpers.
Page: 20 Model MRC88 Section 2: Installation & Connections INSTALLATION OPERATION: OUT-OF-THE-BOX PRE TEST (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED) The MRC-88 is shipped to operate basic functions ‘Out-Of-The-Box’ without any programming. Simply by plugging in keypads via standard CAT-5 RJ45 terminated patch cable and powering the controller ‘on’, you can control Source Selection, Volume Up/Down and speaker Mute capabilities.
Model MRC88 Page: 21 b) Press “VOL+” on the Zone 1 Keypad. The Volume bar should move on the Keypad and the audio content of the source connected to the Source 1 inputs should be should be heard through the Zone 1 speakers. c) Press “MUTE” on the Zone 1 Keypad. The Zone 1 speakers will mute. Press MUTE again and the speakers will un-mute. (Pressing VOL+ or VOL- will also un-mute the speakers).
Page: 22 Model MRC88 2. If mounted in an equipment cabinet or other confining location, allow at least 2 inches of space above the top cover. Be sure there are large openings in the shelf below the unit and in the cabinet to allow the entry of cool air and the escape of warm air. 3. If the cabinet contains other heat generating components or you are using several MRC88's in a large multizone system, you will have to pay even closer attention to adequate ventilation. 4.
Model MRC88 Page: 23 b. Using a level, make proper horizontal and vertical marks on surface to be cut, to properly orient template. Figure 7 – MRC88 Keypad mounting template c. Locate the provided template so that the mark is in the center of the hole, which is in the center of the template. d. Rotate the template around the center until the template is level. e. Press or hammer the template in place so that the holding tabs pierce the wall and hold the template in place. f.
Page: 24 Model MRC88 e. Slide the left or right side of the back-bar into the wall as shown in Figure 8. f. Center the mounting bracket in the wall and tighten the screws until the bracket is firmly held in the wall. Over tightening will distort the bracket and prevent the Keypad from snapping tight against the wall. Under tightening will cause the Keypad to be loose against the wall. g.
Model MRC88 Page: 25 POWER CH VOL PAUSE CH REW SELECT PLAY FF VOL STOP STATUS MUTE 1 2 Figure 9 – Removing the MRC88 Keypad from the wall 1. Insert the MRC88 keypad removal tool into the slot at the bottom of the keypad, as shown in Figure 9, being sure that the tool is inserted so that the “insert to here” line slides under the Keypad. This will reduce the risk of damage to the Keypad or the wall. 2.
Page: 26 Model MRC88 Using good quality RCA-type patch cables connect the source VIDEO OUTPUT jacks of the ‘Primary controller’ [Figure 3-(23)] to the corresponding source VIDEO INPUT jacks on the Secondary Controller Figure 3-(22). ZONE AUDIO INPUTS (ADVANCED) Use 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack to Stereo RCA Plug adapter to connect Zone Specific Audio Sources (i.e. Audio Server or other Zone Specific Audio Component) to the appropriate Zone Audio Input - Figure 3-(24). The 3.
Model MRC88 Page: 27 NOTE 3: Program IR commands for the MRC44 Controller current sensing as described in the MRC44 Installation Instructions, “PROGRAMMING SENSE CODES”. (EXPANDED) Connect CSM1’s as described above to the Primary Controller. Sense inputs are not available on the Secondary Controller. ZONE RELATED WIRING CONNECTIONS In typical applications, each zone will have at least one MRC88 Keypad and a pair of stereo speakers.
Page: 28 Model MRC88 RJ45 Connector at Controller/Amplifier Cat 5 Cable RJ45 Connector at Keypad Wire Color white/orange orange white/green blue white/blue green white/brown brown Pin # 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Signal 485 + 485 12V RET IR RET IR +12V Attn. 485 IR Loop Back Wire Color white/orange orange white/green blue white/blue green white/brown brown Pin # 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Signal 485 + 485 12V RET IR RET IR +12V Attn.
Model MRC88 Page: 29 Mini jack to the appropriate zone Status connector on the rear of the MRC88 Controller/Amplifier and the other end to the device to control. Tip=Control Voltage; Sleeve=GND Control Out (BASIC/ADVANCED) A single Common Control Output is provided on the rear of the MRC88 Controller/Amplifier –Figure 3-(20). When the Common Control Output is High (+12 volts, 50 mA), this indicates that ‘at least’ one zone is powered ON.
Page: 30 Model MRC88 KEYPAD CONNECTIONS AND JUMPER SETTINGS Single Keypad CAT5 Connections 1. Refer to Figure 10 for proper termination at the zone-end of the CAT5 cable. 2. Set Keypad Address jumper configuration on the rear of the keypad – Figure 5-(17) according to Table 1 below. 2. Connect the CAT5 cable from the MRC88 Controller/Amplifier into the RJ45 jack marked “Controller” on the rear of the MRC88 keypad.
Model MRC88 Page: 31 Keypad Address Setting Application JP1 JP2 First (or Single) Keypad in Zone OFF OFF (Primary Keypad connected directly to MRC88 Controller) Second Keypad in Zone OFF ON (Connected to Primary keypads Expansion Port) Third Keypad in Zone ON OFF (Connected to Second keypads Expansion Port) Fourth Keypad in zone ON ON (Connected to third keypads Expansion Port) Table 1 – MRC88 Keypad Address Settings Zone Termination The LAST keypad connected in the zone (Keypad with no other keypad p
Page: 32 Model MRC88 LINKING T WO MRC88 CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER UNITS To connect two systems, simply connect the supplied DB15 Expansion Cable to the EXPANSION Port on the rear of one unit to the EXPANSION Port on the other – Figure 3-(30). These units should be placed either side by side or if installed in a 19” (483mm) equipment rack, leave 2 rack unit spaces (2U space) between the two units [One Rack Unit space = 1-3/4” (44.5mm) in height]. CAUTION: Do not place these units directly on top of each other.
Model MRC88 Page: 33 Extended Runs and Secondary Keypads In Zone A IR Receiver POWER CH VOL PAUSE CH REW SELECT PLAY VOL FF STOP STATUS MUTE 500 feet max (152 m) B POWER IR Receiver POWER CH VOL PAUSE CH REW SELECT PLAY FF CH VOL REW STOP STATUS VOL PAUSE CH SELECT PLAY FF VOL STOP MUTE STATUS MUTE 250 feet max (76 m) C POWER POWER CH VOL PAUSE CH REW SELECT PLAY FF VOL CH REW STOP STATUS VOL PAUSE SELECT PLAY FF VOL CH STATUS VOL PAUSE CH RE
Page: 34 Model MRC88 If any keypad in the zone is using an external IR receiver, or if an outdoor keypad is necessary in a subzone, the MRC88 Terminal Block on the rear of the keypad (see Figure 12) can be used to expand the connections on the back of the keypad as shown in Figures 11A, B, & C. The Maximum cable run to the external IR receiver/keypad in each of the above cases can be up to 125 feet from the keypad depending upon type and gauge of wire used.
Model MRC88 Page: 35 SETTING-UP THE MRC88 SYSTEM (BASIC/ADVANCED) To better demonstrate the ease and versatility of programming the MRC88, Figure 13 will be used to illustrate setup for a typical application. (EXPANDED) For setup of an expanded system, see Figure 24. The MRC88 is programmed using the included Xantech Dragon Drop-IR™ program, Drag450MRC and connection accessories. For additional information, please call Xantech technical support at 1-800-843-5465 ext 812 or visit http://www.xantech.
Page: 36 Model MRC88 Section 3: Pre-Programming the MRC88 Programming the MRC88 system involves planning the system and most of all, programming the system. This section is broken down to walk you through from Basic to Advanced modes of programming as well as programming external Universal IR Remotes (Xantech URC-2 or other) to control the MRC88 Controller/Amplifier.
Model MRC88 Page: 37 PLANNING THE SYSTEM Before attempting any programming, plan the system configuration first. This should include the following: 1. Determine the brand and type of all source components to be used.
Page: 38 Model MRC88 INCLUDED HARDWARE & SOFTWARE ITEMS The MRC88 Dragon Drop-IR package includes: • DragMRC CD ROM • One DB9 Male-to-Female Cable. Connects the MRC88 COM PORT to a DB9 SERIAL PORT 1 on your computer. If you need to use serial ports 2, 3 or 4 on your computer, see "SERIAL PORT SELECTION" section. If your computer only has a USB connection, a USB Type Port is also provided for programming purposes (requires cable with USB ‘B’ Type connector).
Model MRC88 Page: 39 3. A New Hardware window should appear on the PC. Click NEXT to search the drive for an available driver. For File Location point the system to C:\Program Files\DragMRC\USB folder. 4. Click Next to continue. The proper drivers should now be installed and Dragon Normally you would use Com Port 1 (USB will usually appear as COM 3 or above), but if it is already in use, it will be necessary to use a different one (use the DB9-to-DB25 adapter if necessary).
Page: 40 Model MRC88 Figure 14 MRC88 System Window – BASIC Mode Figure 15 MRC88 System Window – Advanced Mode LEARNING IR COMMANDS (Creating Palette Files) (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED) IR Codes from Manufactures remotes of each of the components you wish to control from the MRC88 Keypad, may be learned into the Dragon Drop-IR™ software and stored in Palette files for placement onto the Keypads. In order to do this, the MRC88 Controller/Amplifier must be connected to the PC as outlined above.
Model MRC88 Page: 41 1. With the IR Library opened to the specific manufacturers list of Command Groups as outlined above, click on the first Command Group listed (i.e. Cmd Group1). A list of all of commands associated with this component should be displayed. 2. Connect an Emitter to the COMMON emitter port on the rear of the MRC88 Controller/Amplifier – Figure 3-(27). 3. Place the emitter over the sensor window of the component to test. 4.
Page: 42 Model MRC88 5. Click on the RECORD button in the middle of the Palette Editor. The RECORD button text will turn red. Dragon is now ready to learn the IR codes for the specific brand/component selected. NOTE: Before performing step 6, read steps 6 thru 8 as the RECORD process is a timed function. You will have 10seconds to perform the process before the system times out. 6. Select the command the left side of the Palette Editor (i.e. Power, Play, Stop etc.).
Model MRC88 Page: 43 To Rename an Existing Function 1. Right-click on the function to be renamed. 2. Choose RENAME from the drop-down menu. 3. Edit the text as desired and press ENTER on your keyboard to save. To Add a New Function 1. Scroll down to the bottom of the function list on the left hand side of the Palette Editor. 2. Right-click on a blank area of the list and select NEW FUNCTION from the drop-down menu. 3.
Page: 44 Model MRC88 Figure 19: Creating a Palette File EDITING BRAND, COMPONENT, AND FUNCTION LISTS If a brand, component, or function is not found in the Palette Editor, each can be added as follows: ADDING BRANDS 1. If the brand you need is not already on the list, choose the Component menu and click on “ADD BRAND”. 2. Type brand name and press enter on the keyboard or click OK. 3. The new name is added and saved to the list. ADDING COMPONENTS AND F UNCTIONS 1.
Model MRC88 Page: 45 1. Click “LINKS” on the DragMRC menu bar. 2. Click on Remote Central Website. Your browser will open and take you to http://www.remotecentral.com/ 3. Click FILES in Remote Central. 4. Click Philips Pronto & Pronto Pro. 5. Scroll and click on desired brand under "Component Configuration Files" (CCF files). 6. Click on component type (CD players, VCR's, etc.). 7. From the list find a Model Number the same as your model or one similar to it.
Page: 46 Model MRC88 Figure 20: Importing Discrete IR Codes ENTERING RS232 COMMANDS (Creating RS232 Command Palette Files) (ADVANCED/EXPANDED) The MRC88 Controller can be used to control advanced components such as projectors and lighting systems directly from the keypad that would normally be controlled via RS232 with exotic controllers or automated systems.
Model MRC88 Page: 47 Figure 21 RS232 Palette Editor Window Figure 22 Entering RS232 Command Strings T ESTING RS232 COMMAND STRINGS There are two methods of testing RS232 Command Strings directly from the RS232 Palette Editor: One is directly out of the DragMRC PC’s Comport and the second method is through the MRC88’s RS232 Com Port – Figure 3-(29).
Page: 48 Model MRC88 the proper Com Port is selected of the DragMRC PC for communicating with the MRC88 Controller/Amplifier) 4. Click on the command string to be tested on the left-hand side of the RS232 Palette Editor. Note: Only commands with the icon will be able to be tested. 5. The Device or Component connected should respond accordingly. If not, check the command string entered and port settings in the Test RS232 Settings window.
Model MRC88 Page: 49 Section 4: Programming The Controller There are three ways in which the MRC88 can be controlled or to control your audio, video and home control systems; by pressing the buttons on the MRC88 Keypad, from signals received from an Infrared (IR) remote at the keypads IR Receiver eye, or from RS232 control from a touch screen panel or other RS232 controller device. There are three types of commands that can be associated with the MRC88 Keypad buttons.
Page: 50 Model MRC88 Figure 24 – MRC88 Keypad LCD Icon Generator Entering Text Directly onto the icons 1. Double click on the Source Icon in the Virtual Keypad in the MRC88 Systems window. 2. Highlight the TEXT to be edited and enter the desired text using the PC Keyboard (up to 4 characters) 3. Hit {ENTER} when done to save change. Your changes should now be reflected in the Virtual Keypad 4.
Model MRC88 Page: 51 PLACING COMMANDS ONTO THE VIRTUAL KEYPAD Commands can be placed under any keypad button with the exception of the Volume UP, Volume DOWN, and STATUS buttons. All other buttons can be programmed with IR commands, RS232 Commands (ADVANCED only), and/or Internal Amplifier Commands (ADVANCED Only). Each of these programmable buttons can have sequences with over 40 commands issued with a single button press.
Page: 52 Model MRC88 1. Select the KEYPAD tab in the MRC88 Systems window 2. Click the desired Source button on the virtual MRC88 Keypad. 3. Click the Function button you wish to place a command under and select the applicable command from the palette for that component function. The code name (function/brand/component) for that button will appear in the Macro Command List on the MRC88 Programming Module. 4. To add additional commands to the same button (i.e.
Model MRC88 Page: 53 Commands can be repeated to extend the amount of time the command is being issued. This is sometimes necessary for STOP commands or any commands that seem to be intermittent with a short button press. 1. To repeat an IR command for any reason, just use the arrows to set the number of times to repeat a code. 2. Double Click in the word “REPEAT”. This will place a “cycle” symbol and the words “Repeat 3 Times” (if 3 is selected) at the bottom of the Macro Command List. 3.
Page: 54 Model MRC88 DELETE KEY (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED) Selecting DELETE KEY from the pop-up menu will delete ALL commands placed under the selected button from the current Keypad only. In BASIC Mode this applies to all keypads in the system. DELETE BANK (Z ONE LEVEL) (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED) Selecting DELETE BANK from the pop-up menu will delete ALL commands placed under all buttons of the selected source bank from the current Keypad only. In BASIC Mode this applies to all keypads in the system.
Model MRC88 Page: 55 Figure 27: Editing Commands IR IN ZONE (ADVANCED/EXPANDED) Highlighting a single command in the Macro Command List and selecting Ir In Zone from the pop-up menu will display another list with Current Zone and Zones 1 thru 8 as choices (for EXPANDED systems, Zones 1 thru 16 are available for selection).
Page: 56 Model MRC88 DELETE (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED) Highlighting a single command in the Macro Command List and selecting Delete from the pop-up menu will remove the command from the Macro Command List. T ESTING COMMANDS PLACED ON THE VIRTUAL KEYPAD Commands placed under buttons in the Virtual Keypad window may be tested prior to downloading to the MRC88 Controller.
Model MRC88 Page: 57 (BASIC) 1. Select the POWER MANAGEMENT tab in the MRC88 Systems window. 2. Select the SOURCE to program (be sure to have the components IR Palette open with the proper power commands opened). (See Figure-28) 3. Select Video Sense or Current Sense (Current Sense requires the use of a CSM1 Current Module). NOTE: When using Current Sense feature, refer to the CSM1 instructions. 4. Select POWER ON in the Macro Command List. The POWER ON button will become outlined in BLUE. 5.
Page: 58 Model MRC88 PROGRAMMING SENSE TRIGGER CODES (ADVANCED/EXPANDED) In Advanced and Expanded modes, the available Video or Sense inputs can be used for either power management of source components or as Triggers to initiate IR codes, RS232 Codes or Internal Amplifier Commands. This is very useful for numerous applications such as a Doorbell trigger circuit to MUTE a particular zone or to set a preferred lighting scene when a component is turned on or when timer circuit is triggered (i.e.
Model MRC88 Page: 59 6. Select POWER OFF in the Macro Command List. The POWER OFF button will become outlined in RED. 7. Select the appropriate command(s) to be associated with the absence of a Sense Input (i.e. no video or 0VDC on the Ring of the stereo mini jack connected to the SENSE input). 8.
Page: 60 Model MRC88 ZONE OPTIONS CONFIGURATION In BASIC mode, the system is configured as a whole and most features are fixed to the default settings. The only feature that is configurable in the Keypad screen is the RC68 Group Code. Within the ADVANCED MRC88 System, each zone can be customized for a number of performance options. For most installations, the factory default settings will be used and will require no additional configuration.
Model MRC88 Page: 61 (BASIC) In basic mode, the code group can only be set for the entire system. To change the Code Group, click on the drop-down menu in the “SYSTEM CODE GROUP” box and select one of the displayed Code Group choices. (ADVANCED/EXPANDED) Each zone of the MRC88 can be set to it’s own individual Code Group. This may be useful when the system requirements so dictate. (i.e. The system requirement calls for having zone-specific remote controls).
Page: 62 Model MRC88 Figure 32: Configuring Commands for IR IN ZONE TRANSFERRING THE PROJECT (BASIC) The project can now be transferred to the MRC88 if it is being set up in the Basic mode. For Advanced and Expanded systems, continue to next section. See page 77 “Transferring a Project” for instructions. NOTE: For Advanced systems you may also transfer the project at this time for a System Test before getting into more complex system features only available in ADVANCED Mode.
Model MRC88 Page: 63 Section 5: Advanced/Expanded Programming All features discussed in Section 5 are only available in ADVANCED or EXPANDED modes of operation. Section 5 will cover all items contained in the CONTROLLER, ZONE LINKING, and RS232 INPUT tabs as displayed in the MRC88 Systems window under ADVANCED mode of operation. BASIC mode of operation is fixed to all DEFAULT settings of the CONTROLLER tab and does not allow for editing of these features.
Page: 64 Model MRC88 IR ROUTING (Factory Default = “ENABLED”) This mode allows selective control of multiple same-brand same-model components such as multiple DVD players or Satellite receivers. When “ROUTING ENABLE” is selected, IR commands are directed only to the specific emitter output for the source selected in a zone, and not to the other source emitter outputs. When “ROUTING DISABLE” is selected, IR commands are directed to ALL emitter outputs.
Model MRC88 Page: 65 RS232 SETTINGS To configure the settings of the RS232 Port located in the rear of the MRC88 Controller/Amplifier –Figure 3(29), click on the CHANGE SETTINGS button under the RS232 Settings section of the CONTROLLER tab. This will display all configurable settings for the RS232 control port. See Figure - 34 below for reference. Figure 34 - RS232 Port Default Settings BAUD RATE, DATA BITS, STOP BITS AMD PARITY SETTINGS to access the drop-down menu and click on the desired setting.
Page: 66 Model MRC88 i.e. If Source #2 is a DVD player that should not be viewed by those in ZONE 5, select the box at the cross section of Source 2 and Zone 5 as displayed in Figure 35 Figure 35 - Monitor Lockout Mode DYNAMIC MONITOR L OCKOUT (ADMINISTRATOR) (Factory default: “DISABLED”) Selecting the ADMINISTRATOR box for a specific zone will allow Monitor Lockout mode to be administered ‘on the fly’.
Model MRC88 Page: 67 ZONE LINKING PROGRAMMING Zones in the MRC88 System can be linked together to allow any combination of zones to behave as a single zone with regard to power (ON/OFF) and source selection. If Zones 1 and 2 are linked, when either is turned ON or OFF, both will turn ON or OFF simultaneously. Source selections and source content will be identical in both zones. Volume and Mute can still be individually controlled in each of the linked zones. This is ideal for adjoining rooms (i.e.
Page: 68 Model MRC88 NOTE: After the project has been transferred to the MRC88 Controller, the Zones will be permanently linked unless reprogrammed to be otherwise. All linked zones will have a small ‘L’ in the right side of the Volume Bar located in the LCD display on the keypad(s) in those zones. Simultaneously pressing the “STATUS” and “CH+” buttons will change the keypad display and indicate linked zones with a ‘highlight’ of the linked zone numbers.
Model MRC88 Page: 69 NOTE: After programming the controller, to activate the Dynamic Link Mode, please see SECTION 8 (Operating Instructions – Dynamic Zone Link). LINK ALL DYNAMIC Selecting this button will set ALL zones to allow Dynamic Zone Linking between ANY zones. LINK ALL STATIC Selecting this button will set ALL zones to be permanently linked. This will make the system operate as one combined zone with individual Volume and Mute control.
Page: 70 Model MRC88 Figure 38 – IRS232 Input Translator PROGRAMMING IR COMMANDS AND SEQUENCES The RS232 Input Translator gets programmed in the same manner as programming the keypads. Palettes are used to associate commands with any of the 128 available ASCII strings. This gives the ability to program up to 128 different command strings to control external IR devices. SELECTING IR PALETTES FROM THE IR CODE LIBRARY 1. Click on PALETTE in the DragMRC’s menu bar 2.
Model MRC88 Page: 71 RC68+ IR CODE TRIGGERED SEQUENCER The MRC88 Controller/Amplifier can generate IR code sequences triggered by single RC68+ commands. This feature can be useful in eliminating long sequence execution from hand-held controllers and also allow a wider range of programmable remotes that can be used with MRC88 (i.e. Remotes that do not allow sequence programming).
Page: 72 Model MRC88 can do one function when the IR is received at Zone 1’s IR Receiver and have a totally different Macro associated with it when the same IR code is received in Zone 2). 4. Select the RC68+ Sequence Trigger Command to be programmed. (i.e Click on button ‘80’. It will be outlined in blue.) NOTE: The shaded buttons are not available for this application. They are reserved for system set-up modes. (See Section 7: Making Fine Adjustments). 5.
Model MRC88 Page: 73 zone (i.e. lower the volume in the Kids zone while sitting in the Master Bedroom). A list of the available commands appears in Table 2 on the next page. NOTE: THESE COMMANDS ARE ALREADY PROGRAMMED INTO THE MRC88 AT THE FACTORY. They are made available for use in special programming such as having a particular zone default to a particular source when that zone is turned ON.
Page: 74 Model MRC88 will turn the zone “OFF”. (Be sure to set the PLAY command for the proper Source Emitter Output. i.e. Right-click on command in Macro Command List and select Source 1 output) 9. Repeat for all zones and commands as required. NOTE: Remember: As in the example above, to make commands accessible no matter which source is selected, you will need to PUNCH the command (Zone Level).
Model MRC88 Page: 75 NOTE: During the EXPANDED Set-Up instructions, we will refer to the PRIMARY and SECONDARY Controllers. The PRIMARY Controller refers to the MRC88 Controller connected to Zones 1 thru 8 and the SECONDARY Controller refers to the MRC88 Controller connect to Zones 9 thru 16. PROGRAMMING IN EXPANDED MODE An EXPANDED system is programmed much the same way as a non-Expanded system.
Page: 76 Model MRC88 2. Any RS232 Commands placed on any keypad will be executed out of the PRIMARY Controllers rear RS232 Connector ONLY regardless of which zone is issuing the command. This means if interfacing to another RS232 device, this device will need to be connected to the PRIMARY Controllers RS232 port.
Model MRC88 Page: 77 Section 6: Completing the Programming Process After completing the previous 5 Sections, it is finally time to transfer the project to the Controller and start using the system. Besides transferring the project, proper file back-up procedures are also mentioned here to ensure the Customers files are stored for future programming additions and/or troubleshooting.
Page: 78 Model MRC88 SAVING AND BACKING-UP FILES AUTOMATIC SAVE When working on a project in DragMRC, it is automatically saved on a continuous basis, It is OK to quit a project at any time and come back to it for further work by simply clicking on Open Project (Ctrl+O) from the File menu and double clicking the filename in the list. SAVE PROJECT AS To create a variation of a project without having to reprogram everything from scratch, i.e. Change “Jones” project to “Smith” project: 1.
Model MRC88 Page: 79 4. To use them at a later date, drag & drop the contents of each of these folders back into the appropriate folders on the main hard drive NOTE: To avoid the potential loss of work, back up files frequently. FIRMWARE UPGRADE OPTIONIS The MRC88 has been designed to be “Future Proof”. As product feature improvements are developed, new System Firmware versions will be available. Periodically monitor Xantech.com for upgrades. DOWNLOADING FIRMWARE FILES FROM THE WEB 1.
Page: 80 Model MRC88 Section 7: Tweaking the System After the project has been transferred and the system deemed operational, there are still areas that might need minor adjustments to customize the system. These adjustments are available system wide regardless of what mode the system was programmed under (i.e. BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED). NOTE: The XANTECH RC68+ handheld programmer will be necessary for all of these adjustments and configurations.
Model MRC88 Page: 81 8. Put the Learning remote into LEARN mode. 9. Select the function to be Taught from the left-hand side of the Palette Editor 10. Repeat for all commands to be learned Figure 43: MRC88 Command Palette MAKING FINE ADJUSTMENTS Using an RC68+ Hand-Held programmer, Fine Adjustments can be made to the individual Source Inputs and to specific Zones for Maximum Volume settings and for Maximum ON Volumes (maximum volume setting for when a zone is first powered ON).
Page: 82 Model MRC88 ZONE ADJUSTMENTS These adjustments allow customized bass, treble, balance and maximum level settings to best compliment the acoustics and preferences for each zone. 1. Go to desired zone. 2. Using an RC68+ select desired INPUT (source). 3. Point the RC68+ at the IR sensor on the MRC88 Keypad (IR sensor enabled) and press the Z-ADJ button (18). (This activates the Zone Adjustments mode). NOTE: Z-ADJ mode allows 10 seconds after each button press for the next command to be executed.
Model MRC88 Page: 83 Section 8: Operating Instructions With all system components connected and the MRC88 Controller and Keypads programmed, The system is ready for use. The following instructions are for the end-user on how to operate the system on a daily basis. ZONE CONTROL (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED) Zone control implies, turning the zone ON, setting Volume Levels, Muting and Un-Muting, and selecting sources on the Zones Keypad or via the IR Receiver.
Page: 84 Model MRC88 ZONE SETTINGS SYSTEM STATUS (BASIC/ADVANCED) A single press of the “STATUS” button will show which sources are currently selected by zone for zones 1 thru 4. Press the STATUS button again to view the status of Zones 5 thru 8. The display will return to normal after 5 seconds of no activity. (EXPANDED) In Expanded mode, the first press of the Status button will show the sources selected in zones 1-8. A second press will show zones 9-16. Subsequent presses will toggle the display.
Model MRC88 2. Page: 85 Press the button for the zone to be unlinked. (Z1, Z2, etc) The keypad status LED’s will show ‘busy’ (rapid amber flash) for 10 seconds after the last button press, then ‘time out’ and return to normal use mode (LED /green, LCD/normal display). The small ‘L’ will no longer appear. The zones will resume independent control. (EXPANDED) Same as above, using the Status button in “Link Session” to access zones 9-16.
Page: 86 Model MRC88 Section 9: Appendix RS232 CONTROL This document describes the bi-directional RS232 interface of the MRC88 using the COM PORT on the rear of the system (Fig. 3-29). This interface allows an external RS232 device to control the MRC88 via a set of ASCII text commands. It is also possible to control any IR device connected to the MRC88 system as well by triggering individual IR Commands and/or IR Macros via ASCII strings.
Model MRC88 Page: 87 The parsing of incoming data on the COM PORT can be disabled via a setting in the Dragon project. This might be necessary if the COM port is to be used to control an external device and any incoming data from that device is to be ignored. This setting can be found with the settings for configuring the COM port. For the MRC88 system to recognize incoming ASCII command strings, the string must begin with an ‘!’ and for data queries the string must begin with a ‘?’.
Page: 88 Model MRC88 COMMANDS Note: An explanation of items in parenthesis ( {} ) can be found below.
Model MRC88 Page: 89 QUERIES Note: An explanation of items in parenthesis ( {} ) can be found below. NAME EXAMPLE RESPONSE QUERY RESPONSE Zone Power ?{z#}PR+ ?{z#}PR{0/1}+ ?7PR0+ Input Select ?{z#}SS+ ?{z#}SS{s#}+ ?5SS3+ Volume ?{z#}VO+ ?{z#}VO{v#}+ ?4VO49+ Mute ?{z#}MU+ ?{z#}MU{0/1}+ ?8MU1+ Treble ?{z#}TR+ ?{z#}TR{bt#}+ ?1TR7+ Bass ?{z#}BS+ ?{z#}BS{bt#}+ ?1BS7+ Balance ?{z#}BA+ ?{z#}BA{t#}+ ?2BA31+ EXPLANATION Power in zone 7 is OFF. Zone 5 currently has source 3 selected.
Page: 90 Model MRC88 VOLUME LEVEL (39 Steps) MRC88 SETTING ATTENUATION LEVEL (in dB) 38 0 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 -1.25 -2.50 -3.75 -5.00 -6.25 -7.50 -8.75 -10.00 -11.25 -12.50 -13.75 -15.00 -16.25 -17.50 -18.75 -20.00 -21.25 -22.50 -23.75 -25.00 -27.50 -30.00 -32.50 -35.00 -37.50 -40.00 -42.50 -45.00 -47.50 -50.00 -52.50 -56.25 -60.00 -63.75 -67.50 -71.25 -75.00 -78.
Model MRC88 Page: 91 KEYPAD BUTTON ID MRC88 SETTING 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 Keypad Button Label NOT AVAILABLE NOT AVAILABLE Source Select 1 Source Select 2 Source Select 3 Source Select 4 Source Select 5 Source Select 6 Source Select 7 Source Select 8 CH + CH POWER NOT AVAILABLE MUTE PAUSE STOP FF REW SELECT/PLAY NOT AVAILABLE NOT AVAILABLE Tier 2 Source Select 1 Tier 2 Source Select 2 Tier 2 Source Select 3 Tier 2 Sou
Page: 92 Model MRC88 BASS/TREBLE LEVEL MRC88 SETTING LEVEL (in dB) 14 +14 13 +12 12 +10 11 +8 10 +6 9 +4 8 +2 7 0 6 -2 5 -4 4 -6 3 -8 2 -10 1 -12 0 -14 © 2003 Xantech Corporation
Model MRC88 Page: 93 BALANCE LEVEL (63 steps) MRC88 Setting 0 1 2 … 29 30 31 32 33 34 … 62 63 Left Speaker Attenuation (in dB) 0 0 0 … 0 0 0 0 -1.25 -2.5 … -37.5 Mute © 2003 Xantech Corporation Right Speaker Attenuation (in dB) Mute -37.5 -36.25 … -2.5 -1.
Page: 94 Model MRC88 TROUBLESHOOTING If you encounter problems, review each of the following items and take corrective action as described. If problems persist, contact Xantech Technical Support. PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE AND SOLUTION The MRC88, after a successful Transfer from Dragon Drop-IR, will not send out any IR commands. a) Open all palettes that you used for the project. Click Edit Palette, on the first palette.
Model MRC88 Page: 95 PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE AND SOLUTION Unit will not learn IR commands from certain brands and models of remotes. a) Because of the wide variety of IR coding and timing relationships (there are no industry standards), there are some IR commands that are not learnable by the Dragon Drop-IR™. Be sure to test all components first to see that their IR command codes are learnable by Dragon Drop-IR and are executable by the MRC88 before selecting final components for the system.
Page: 96 Model MRC88 PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE AND SOLUTION When Transferring the project to a MRC88, the transfer stops with a "Transfer aborted-Receiver Stopped Responding" or a "Communications Error---" message. The following items may have interfered with the transfer of data. Check each one in the order listed, then redo the transfer.
Model MRC88 Page: 97 PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE AND SOLUTION Problems Controlling the MRC88 via the RS232 port on the rear of the system. 1. Check the cabling between the controlling unit and the MRC88. 2. Verify proper command is being sent to the MRC88. Refer to Appendix A and section on RS232 Translator for recognized ASCII commands. 3. Verify RS232 Port settings are set properly for both devices (i.e. Baud Rate, Data Bits, Stop Bit etc..) 4.
Page: 98 Model MRC88 1 2 3 NC Tx Rx 1 2 3 IR Source 1 IR Source 2 IR Source 3 4 HS Out 4 IR Source 4 5 GND 5 IR Source 5 6 HS In 6 IR Source 6 7 RTS 7 IR Source 7 8 NC 8 IR Source 8 9 NC 9 NC 10 IR Common 11 Tx Out 12 Common 13 Rx In 14 Sig Out 15 Sig In Windows and Microsoft are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.
Model MRC88 Page: 99 SPECIFICATIONS Audio (ea channel) Min Input:......................................................................................................250mV for full rated Output Input Overload: .............................................................................................. >2.2 V RMS (@ max VC) Input Impedance: ............................................................................................................... > 20 k Ohms Power Output:............................
Page: 100 Model MRC88 © 2003 Xantech Corporation
Model MRC88 Page: 101 © 2003 Xantech Corporation
Page: 102 Model MRC88 XANTECH CORPORATION 12950 Bradley Avenue, Sylmar CA 91342-3829 phone 818.362.0353 • fax 818.362.9506 www.xantech.com © 2003 Xantech Corporation Part No.
