,

Wow. I think you want to bring in an experienced Elan programmer. The Z series isn't their most difficult stuff (HD fills that bill) but you'll probably find that you need support from Elan - and they aren't likely to teach you everything if you're not a dealer. The Z system, while similar to some other control systems in that it allows multiple macros and uses a PC to program, is different enough that you can quickly find yourself stumped without support or training.
I'd suggest you pass this one on to a local programmer who has been around a while - I don't think that the Z series gets spec'ed in very often anymore and most newer folk will only be familiar with the S series. You'll need software, the Z095 programmer and probably other parts.

Either way, good luck!

Jeff

You need to call Elan Home systems and tell them you need to get in touch with an elan installer. They will not give you support unless you are a dealer. You need an Elan learner box and software as well, Jeff is right about the fact that you need to get a programmer out there.

Elan Home Systems
859.269.7760

Good Luck,
JZ

Musnon, You can give me call sometime. I am a Elan dealer 15minutes north of you.

The Keypads have the intelligence (I'm not claiming that) and the z630 is just passive and needs no programming. Each keypad is programmed with the Elan Via! tool kit or the Z095 programmer and a copy of the VIA tools program running on your computer with a clean serial port functioning.
Chances are if you ran across an Elan system, Classic, Bill, or PremierAudio&Images did it.
Shoot me a email and I will reply back with my Phone#

Bob,
Those KPs really suck... and the Z amps are nothing to write home about, but the Z preamps are actually really nice, and the Z-600 comm module is pretty much the best in class.

If you can get the Z-pads out, it would be in your best interests.
Especially if you want to use an XM, digital cable box music channels, hard drive music server, DVR... or any other sources that weren't around in the early-mid 90s when the Z-pads were created.

I HIGHLY recommend the Sonance K2 with these.
We just re-worked a couple old Elan Z-systems recently.
The Z-pre and Z-comm modu;le are keepers, they are still pretty capable in today's market.
Sonamp 1230s and 1250s replace the Z-660 amps (which are total DOGS), and the K2s replace the Z-pads... MAJOR improvement in use and in sound.

To use a K2, or any non-Elan KP for that matter, you need to diode isolate the SIG lead from each KP for reliable operation.

I sent you an e-mail...

Good luck,
Rick.

Munson,

The keypads can be programmed with the Via tool kit, which is PC based or they can be programmed with the Z090 (or 095) which is a learning box.

In the case of the learning box you need to gather all the remotes and in a certain sequence "learn" all the buttons. Many buttons can be programed with simple macros and if you have zones, then each keypad will control the zone as long as the processor is told what to do (dip switches).

I have programmed many of these systems and they work o.k. The trick is to make sure that the button that you have learned has learned the IR code correctly and that means test, test, and test!

When you have one set of keypads learned then you can clone to all the others in one easy download.

I have a z090 learning box that I rarely use and though I suggest that you use the via tools Z(pc version) I would be happy to lend you the learning box.

Take the advice from the guys above and send me an e-mail if you need the learning box. I also have the manual and would be happy to talk over the phone the few days before the installaton to help you out should you choose to program the keypads in this way.

If it is possible try and up sell to something different than Elan 100/150. If this won't happen, then I am happy to help.

Bob

I always toss out the Zpads, I use MX-800s in place of them.

That's why i don't use ELAN. I have had to service some ELAN stuff, and I find their proprietary schemes somewhat puzzling. Even the color codes used for their Cat 5 cables is un orthodox. Why not just use the standard protocol. And yes, it can be like pulling teeth to get support if you aren't a dealer. With that said, I think some of these propritary systems are going to get a serious run for their money very soon. One thing I will say in support of ELAN is that their hardware is extremely well made. Top drawer fabrication and QC.

Beware of the great white RJ-45 versus the oh so subtle black RJ-45. That's great!!! a manufacturer that changes their entire pin protocol mid production. Absolutely genius.

given the number of Elan installs out there, this is definitely a system that is worth getting to know... even if it is to integrate an existing system into a new scope of work. they are pretty reliable and simple once you get past the elanistic aspects of it.

or is it elantastic?