Hi guys,

I'm a long time user of multiple 900 and 950s around my home, and have them programmed and integrated into my HomeSeer2 installation with UPB (HAI) lighting and automation. Everything in my house is working fantastically.

Since I can't leave well enough alone, and was never happy with HomeSeer's iOS app, I wanted the ability to create a remote from an iPad Mini that is more customizable, with channel logos, and added simplicity for the wife and my 5 kids (yeah I know. Hindsight.)

Anyways, I have this MRX-1 coming (I don't own any 2-way devices, and found a nice deal on the MRX-1 with Complete Control software, etc) and am hoping it will simply replace my MRF-260 iR connections into my main room entertainment system, but receive IP commands from the iPad app to control my devices.

My questions are:

- will the MX-950 (for this room) work with this device as an RF gateway? I noticed there was an optional antenna... maybe that's needed?

- I am very proficient with the Live Update enabled remote programming tools for my other URC remotes. Obviously this one will be VERY different. Do I need something special to be able to work the iPad design for communication to the MRX? Is this going to be something that i need an 'unlock code' or ? to access, and if so, am I up a creek without a paddle?

I understand that I'm not a pro installer, but I am quite proficient in the configuration and build of these systems, and have probably programmed 10-15 high end URC remotes for myself, family and friends. Hopefully I'll be able to do the same with the MRX, or I just flushed hard earned money down the toilet :-/

I appreciate any assistance and your taking time to reply!

Adam

you need the rfx250 antenna to make the mrx1 work with RF remotes.  keep in mind that the remotes will only control the IR devices attached to the MRX1.  The remotes won't be able to work with IP, RS232, Sensors, or the relay on the MRX1.

You do need an unlock code that gets activated with the MRX1's MAC address.  This can be purchased through a URC dealer.  You only need 1 code per system.  so once you get the code, you can add as many mrx1's to the system as you like; so long as they are networked to the main mrx1.

 You only need 1 code per system.  so once you get the code, you can add as many mrx1's to the system as you like; so long as they are networked to the main mrx1.

I believe this is inaccurate. From what I was told, you can have as many iOS devices per MRX with the code.

Quoted from URC:
"I have one MRX-1 or MRX-2 base system in my home, and another one in my summer cottage. Can I use the same CC Control App app in both places?
Each iOS app is only capable of controlling a single system. Another advantage of the Total Control system (and its app) is the ability to use it in multiple household or commercial building scenarios. When using CC Control App, the only way to control multiple houses or buildings is to purchase a dedicated iOS device for each system."



Damon

I think you misunderstood what I wrote. 1 license required per network. So if all the mrx's are on the same network, only 1 code is required.

Thanks everyone for the replies. The unlock code thing is a little unusual - so you buy a piece of hardware for a few hundred bucks but them need to spend $200 more to make it work?

I will search for the RF antenna accessory. Will definitely need that. Thanks for the heads up!

It's actually not that unusual and pretty much standard with most of the products in the CI industry. I know that some lower priced &/or DIY solutions don't always charge for this, but as the saying goes you get what you pay for...

URC (and other co's) spend thousands of hours creating graphics, templates, and maintains the software and databases. All they are trying to do is recoup those costs.

the mrx1/2 also work with other remotes.  they weren't originally designed to work with iOS.  they developed the iOS app later, so that is why there is the optional license if you want to use it for the iOS app.

Also something to note. A lot of other manufacturers with pro level gear charge PER device (ie. per phone or tablet). URC charges a site license as Duct Tape mentioned, so in the grand scheme of things, it is MUCH more affordable than some of its competition