Quote:
Originally Posted by
GetGray 
The URC MX-980 and MSC-400 is a nice combo. The MSC-400 translates the handhelds commands to IR or RS232, as needed. Connection is via RF (handheld to MSC). And the MSC can monitor the status of components to see if they are on/off so it you can build in some logic for devices without discretes, etc.
Scott -
That looks interesting.
Thanks.
I'll have to read up on the different remote possibilities and decide if I want something I can DIY vs. hiring someone to program (more likely).
Mike
A
linkRadio Frequency Signals Ensure Reliability
Instead of separately turning on the TV, turning on the DVD player, changing the input, and turning on the receiver, these commands are chained together in the proper sequence in a macro, and it works seamlessly with hardware from multiple vendors. The macros are programmed into the MSC-400 and triggered by digital RF (Radio Frequency) from an MX-900, TX-1000, MX-950 or MX-3000 remote control instead of being haphazardly broadcast in the direction of the device. Once triggered, the commands execute without interruption and without further interaction with the remote. No pointing necessary! As a result, the system responds perfectly to your command. Add
video and/or voltage sensors (sold separately), and the MSC-400 Master System Controller can test the status of the devices it controls and issue commands accordingly. In other words, it finds out whether your TV is on or off before sending a signal. If you're just getting started, a
starter kit is available that contains 6 sleeved IR emitters, 2 video sensor cables, 2 voltage sensors, and 2 serial cables.
Control IR, RS-232, & Relay-Triggered Devices
High-performance audio/video systems can include IR (infrared-controlled devices such as satellite and cable set-top boxes, and DVD players), RS-232 (serial-controlled devices such as projectors, surround-sound receivers and media servers), relay (contact/voltage-triggered devices such as lights, drapes, curtains and blinds) and even USB keyboard commands. The MSC-400 Master System Controller is designed to automate all of these types of devices seamlessly, so it can be used to operate sophisticated
home theater equipment,
audio components,
lighting, Media Center PCs, even
motorized screens and
drapes. The MSC-400 Master System Controller will control up to 12 devices via IR (or 6 IR and 6 RS-232); six IR emitters are included with the MSC-400, additional emitters can be purchased
separately.
male DB9 and
female DB9 RS-232 cables are sold separately.
Expandable System Allows Control Over Large Properties
Up to three
RF receivers can be connected to the MSC-400 Master System Controller. Since each RFX-250 typically gives 50-100 feet of range, huge estates can be given robust, reliable RF via a network of wired RF receivers. Master/slave programming options enable installers to combine two MSC-400 controllers into one equipment location with complete integration of all macros in one Master MSC-400.The two MSC controllers are slaved together with a
Master/Slave RS232 Cable (sold separately) to create a combined system that controls 22 components.
Installation and Programming Notes
Installing and programming the MSC-400 Master System Controller is sped enormously by a combination of hardware and software design features. When programming is required, the installer simply connects a laptop via
USB cable (sold separately) to the front panel programming port. MRF Editor software offers extensive control options, RS232 Two Way Diagnosis, IF/ELSE nesting logic and elaborate speed options, like the channel favorites tool, which enables installers to program dozens of numeric keypad macros in seconds.
The required MSC Editor Software can only be downloaded from the URC Dealer Only website.
Bummer.
, some won't.
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