What I would like to do is use a single MSC-400 to control components in 2 different rooms. The rooms are close enough together that a single RFX-250 antenna should be able to receive RF from 2 MX-900 remotes. Each remote will only be used in one of the specific rooms.

Each remote would be programmed to invoke MSC macros to control the components in its particular room. I know you can do the same thing with multiple MRF base stations but was wondering if a single MSC could be used instead of the 2 MRF's ( I would like to have the serial control and sensor monitoring capabilities of the MSC).

Here's my questions:
1) The specs for the MSC-400 state that the max number of devices which can be controlled by a single MSC-400 is 12. Is this because the MSC editor software limits the number of devices, or is it simply a function of the fact that the MSC has 12 physical IR outputs? Will the software allow the use of more than 12 devices if one or more of the IR outputs is connected to a dual head emitter and/or an amplified IR connecting block?
2) Is it possible to route the MSC's IR output for a specific device to one specific IR output connector? Can I create macros in the MSC which will only output IR to one specific IR output port, or will the signals always be output to all IR ports?
3) If I decide to not use the MSC, could I instead use a single MRF-350 and route one of the IR outputs to an amplified connecting block located in the other room? Would I be able to create specific macros which would route IR output to one specific physical IR output connector on the MRF?

Snarfy,

you COULD do almost all of the things you're mentioning here, but the real question is can YOU do it. these are all basic operations for someone trained with the product and it sounds as though you're just scratching the surface. I would suggest getting a qualified programmer to spec all this stuff and do the programming for you if these basic questions have you wondering.

Maybe you're a pro that has never worked with other brands before, but it doesn;t sound like it.

You can use all 12 IR Ports on the MSC400. Ports 7-12 must used the sleeved emitters. Also you must set the MSC RF ID 11-1f to activate the ports 7-12. You can use dual emitters but there will be no IR routing on those two emitters. So, if you are using two of the same model cable boxes, make sure they use different ports if you are using dual emitters. You can connect the MSC400 to a Xantech 79144 amplified connecting block to receive more ports, but you could use a MRF350 to do the same. There will be no routing on the MRF350 or 79144 if you go this route.

All IR output ports are routed. So if you have several cable boxes in your system, then you could have a CH+ only come out of one IR port, the one that you assign in your program.

If you are a CI, then I would take a URC online training course...it would help alot...

Mike

briremo and Mike,
Thanks for your responses. It sounds like the MSC has the capabilities I need.

My main concern was that the MSC software would limit the number of devices which could be controlled. That doesn't seem to be the case. I am fine with giving up routing on 1 or 2 of the outputs.

I'll simply route all of the IR for the devices in the second room (the room where the MSC is not physically located) to one IR port. This port will be wired to the connecting block which will serve all devices in the 2nd room.

dude, with all due respect, this device seems to be a bit over your head...

depending on how many devices, you should be able to do this with one (or two) mrf300 or 350.

It will be wayyyyyyyy easier to program, will save you money and since you don't seem to know much about this stuff, it'll be easier to get help with here.

NOTE: The MSC is NOT just an RF receiver and router.

I noticed you mentioned you wanted serial control and to use the MSC triggers. You definately then should get the MSC-400. If you spend a little bit of time at first it is not difficult to learn how to program it.

Cheers

Pete

Thanks Pete (and briremo),
This is precisely why I want to use the MSC rather than the MRF - want to use the sensing and serial capabilites.

I'm willing to invest the time necessary to learn how to program it, in fact I am looking forward to it.

Good for you then! Sorry if I sounded condescending...not meant to be...just one of those arrogant CI's! LOL