I've been getting some remotes set up here in the store for display purposes (Finally!) and I've run across a few questions that I haven't come accross in the field.

On the back of a Lexicon MC-4 (for example) I have the option to to a direct plug IR (3.5mm jack) or controlling it via RS232. Right now I have it set up with the direct IR and it works great. My question is, are there any clear advantages to using RS232 instead of Direct IR.

I have to apologize if this is a dumb question, as I have never needed to use the RS232 before... but I'd like to know what I'm doing if it ever becomes an issue.

TIA,
Andy

I am using the direct IR plug to an MC-12: I don't think there are any clear advantage with RS232

the IR eye on the front panel will still be active: it can still receive/respond to IR commands even with the IR plug in the rear/an RS232 connection: in some cases this could cause some problems:

I don't think you can shut off the front panel sensor except by blocking the IR eye

This message was edited by markrubin on 04/29/05 18:30 ET.

many times you get advanced features with the rs232 protocol. For example with denon receivers you can set the volume at an exact volume number. This would allow you to display the volume on the T2+ or even link it with the volume on your display because you would have a known state. Convenient if you have equipment in a remote location and are doing HD to a TV because the client doesn't know the volume. Also many times you can set surround sound modes...etc. etc. Its mostly up to the product you use.

This message was edited by scottedge267 on 05/04/05 14:16 ET.

RS-232 always has less lag time, and for the most part is error free.

I use RS 232 every chance I get...it is flawless. It integrates well with Lutron Chronos allowing you to control lights to certain percentages. For preamp processors you can string variables to set exactly what you want.

How to start using RS232?

I use IR with Global Cache and works ok but I would like to use RS232 to provide better installations.

What I need to buy to control a receiver using RS232 port? What kind of software and hardware do I need to buy?

And how to program the port? How to send the code? From where?

About the format of discrete codes, how to work with RS232? Is there any tutorial that I can read to learn from the ground about RS232?



Thanks.

You mention to provid better installations. Are you a dealer of any specific control system ?

Most control systems these days are drag and drop of commands from a preset library. It helps to understand what is happening when communicating rs232, but I have seen dealers sell more and know less.

Find a control system, speak with them get on some training or watch their training videos if they have any.

morejon,
Welcome to the site.

Since you can post, you can start a new thread. Feel free to do so, especially since some of us somehow feel duped if we start responding to an old old thread that has been resurrected by a newbie.

I don't see enough detail to know this, but it sounds like you're trying to translate IR control to RS232 to improve reliability, or something like that. The two modes of control are completely separate entities. A device has to come to you with RS232 controllability built into it. (If it came to you with RS232 control built in, but no IR control, there's nothing you could do to add IR control.) There's no converting from one type to the other, and the format of the commands, the order in which they're created, etc have zero to do with one another.

Google RS232 and read about it. It won't make a lot of sense to you since it's just the definition of a mode of sending information; in your case you want that information to be interpreted as commands.

Ernie, I read a lot using Google to find information. Now I understand better.

I see URC controllers. Is there any other high end brand for this type of product? That could integrate with KNX automation or have the best user interface of the market.

Thanks.

Hi, I'm not a dealer. I just want to find the best solution to offer, with easy programming and best presentation to the costumer. I use IR a lot but reliability of RS232 is what I look now. What brands do you recommend for a controller with RS232? Using iOS/Android and RF remote controllers.

Thanks.