I have a MX-980 and I also have the MX-980 Editor, the editor is the only
software installed under Windows XP. The expansion pack and the other software is not installed. I am a newbie with this software.
URC has stopped supporting the standalone MX-980 editor in an effort to use one programming platform with Complete Control Program or CCP. With CCP most of URC's remotes, processor, keypad and modules can be programmed in one place. It makes it very easy to integrate a control system vs. one remote at a time. While the standalone editor is NOT useless, I would not rely on it too much. CCP is available through authorized dealers and they may or may not distribute the software.
1. Assuming the device is plugged in and the editor running, how do I get the
editor to see the MX-980? (upload under communications?)
Since the MX-980 is a PC programmed remote the software is programmed on a PC platform then synced to the remote via a USB cable. The remote or PC does not need to interact during the programming process - only the synching process.
The programming software follows a very logical order, and you can find that order under the program tab. Here are the preferred steps in order:
step one- create and name devices
step two - create layouts
step three - select IR codes from IR DB
step four - Learn and import and codes if needed
step five - program your macros
step six - select pnch through options
step seven - select RF / IR options
This is assuming your not also programming an MSC-400 - if you are the steps change dramatically.
2. For the sake of argument I purchase a DVD player, a simple one
nothing fancy and I want to create the functions on the MX-980,
how would I go about this? Any basic steps? I do not want to get fancy
with the remote, and no fancy programming if possible.
I detailed the steps above - but keep in mind "fancy" programming may mean reliable, rerunnable, and non-complexity. People are always under the impression that these remotes are simplistic out of the box and get harder when time is spent on them. It cant be any different. I tell all my customers if you want simple it takes work. Making something bulletproof and reliable is not fancy, it's neccesary. Don't confuse fancy with convulted.
3. How do I export my configuration so that I have it in case I mess up
the remote?
The toolbar, under communications has two options: Upload and Download. Upload from the remote the current configuration and save it. Work on another copy, and download it to the remote.
4. When additional functions are created for the remote, when they are
uploaded to the remote, is the current configuration overwritten or
just appended?
Both. It will save anything you didnt touch and change whatyou did. Think of it like recoloring part of a picture - the original part stays the same color.
5. Is there an idiots guide out there somewhere? How about a video?
Under help there should be a user manual or guide. There are resources out there (like remote central), but most of the good stuff is in the URC control room and can only be accessed by dealers. - Sorry, this is a professional series remote and is best left to a professional for programming. This is not to say you cant learn it on your own, it's just a matter of how much time you want to devote to it and how long you want to be without control.
Any help appreciated, look I understand that anyone who has one of these devices should know what they are doing, but I am willing to learn if you can help. I am assuming that once I get the basic idea as to how to add a device
to the remote, I can learn onwards from there.
Are you kidding? How many people have owned VCR's and didnt know what they did? The truth is that this product is a custom installer product and the resources and training is available to them. If you are just trying to learn you have to do it by asking strangers, trial and error and by playing around which is a decent investment in time. Many of my clients are engineers, software developers, CEO's, etc. It has nothing to do with lack of intelligence. It's simply a matter of wanting something visually appealing, reliable and simple to use for the entire family without spending the next six weekends working on it.
Regards,
Vincent
