Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
USER MANUAL
Model:
RC-8IR
Universal Room Controller
Contents
Tables
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
ii
Introduction
1
Introduction
Welcome to Kramer Electronics! Since 1981, Kramer Electronics has been
providing a world of unique, creative, and affordable solutions to the vast
range of problems that confront the video, audio, presentation, and
broadcasting professional on a daily basis. In recent years, we have redesigned
and upgraded most of our line, making the best even better! Our 1,000-plus
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer RC-8IR Universal Room
Controller, which is designed to let an instructor enter a multimedia
classroom and operate an A/V system with ease.
The package includes the following items:
•
•
•
•
RC-8IR device housing and separate faceplate
One 3.5mm to IR emitter control cable
This user manual2
Configuration software
2
Getting Started
This user manual is written for the end user. Refer to the separate online
RC Configuration and Installation Guide for details of how to install and
configure the Universal Room Controller3
We recommend that you:
•
•
Review the contents of this user manual
Use Kramer high performance high resolution cables4
1 GROUP 1: Distribution Amplifiers; GROUP 2: Switchers and Matrix Switchers; GROUP 3: Control Systems; GROUP 4:
Format/Standards Converters; GROUP 5: Range Extenders and Repeaters; GROUP 6: Specialty AV Products; GROUP 7:
Scan Converters and Scalers; GROUP 8: Cables and Connectors; GROUP 9: Room Connectivity; GROUP 10: Accessories
and Rack Adapters; GROUP 11: Sierra Products
2 Download up-to-date Kramer user manuals from the Internet at this URL: http://www.kramerelectronics.com
3 That provides information about how to set up the system. This online guide may well be updated on a regular basis. For
the latest online guide, go to http://www.kramerelectronics.com
4 The complete list of Kramer cables is on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
1
Overview
3
Overview
Kramer’s RC-8IR one-gang wall plate is a highly versatile controller
interface that acts as an all-in-one extended remote control panel for control
of A/V equipment—especially projectors and associated equipment—in any
room (such as classrooms, boardrooms, or auditoriums). It streamlines
operations and simplifies control by integrating audio, video, and computer-
video sources into a centralized system.
The RC-8IR includes:
•
•
•
An Ethernet port for configuration and control1
Two bidirectional RS-232 wired serial ports, for universal display (for
example, projectors) and switcher control, and one RS-485 serial port
•
Two relays for the simplified and centralized control of room functions
(such as lighting, closing blinds, screen settings, and so on)
•
•
Two IR control ports
An IR-learner for the customized control of external sources, receiving the
IR commands from different remote transmitters without the need for an
external IR remote control unit
•
•
Macro mode operation, for programming up to 15 commands with the
press of a single button, and summing up to a total of 120 commands
Support for firmware upgrade
To achieve the best performance:
•
Connect only good quality connection cables, thus avoiding interference,
deterioration in signal quality due to poor matching, and elevated noise-
levels (often associated with low quality cables)
•
Avoid interference from neighboring electrical appliances and position
your Kramer RC-8IR away from moisture, excessive sunlight and dust
1 Of up to five machines with unique IP addresses
2 Six buttons for RC-6IR, and eight buttons for the RC-8IR
3 To be configured by the system integrator only
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
2
Your Universal Room Controller
4
Your Universal Room Controller
Front Panel with Faceplate
Figure 1: RC-8IR Front Panel
Front Panel without Faceplate
Table 1: RC-8IR Front Panel Features
#
Feature
Function
1
2
3
IR IN Receiver
Accepts IR remote commands (for the IR-learner feature)
Control the room and the A/V equipment (from 1 to 8)
Configurable Control
Buttons (Macro Buttons)
4
5
Housing Attachment Holes
Button Caps
Use to install the device housing
Button caps with “wings” on the left and right sides (8)
3
Your Universal Room Controller
Front Panel
Buttons
Figure 2: RC-8IR Right Side Panel
Table 2: RC-8IR Right Side Panel Features
#
Feature
Function
1
2
3
4
Housing and Faceplate Support Device housing supports the faceplate
RELAY2
RELAY1
Connect each relay to a room item (such as lighting, screen
settings, blinds, and so on)1
RS-485 Terminal Block
Connector
Connect to the RS-485 detachable terminal block on a switcher
or PC
5
6
RS-232 Terminal Block
Connector (1 and 2)
Connect to the RS-232 connector on the A/V equipment or a PC or
other Serial Controller
IR OUT1 PIN
GND PIN
Connect to an IR emitter cable
IR OUT2 PIN
GND PIN
7
8
Connects (-) to the Ground
+12VDC IN PIN
Connects (+) to the connector for powering the unit
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
4
Installing the RC-8IR Universal Room Controller
Figure 3: RC-8IR Rear Panel
Table 3: RC-8IR and Rear Panel Features
#
Feature
N.U Switch
Function
1
2
Not used
PROGRAM Switch
Switch to OFF for normal operation;
Switch to ON for firmware upgrade
3
4
RS-485 TERM. Switch
Switch to ON for RS-485 line termination
FACTORY DEFAULT Button Press to return to the factory default settings, including all the
configured buttons and the network settings1
5
6
Ethernet Port
Connects to a PC or other controller through computer networking
Connect to grounding wire
Grounding Screw
5
Installing the RC-8IR Universal Room Controller
This section describes the installation of the RC-8IR and includes:
•
Setting up the labels on the buttons, according to your specific
requirements2
•
•
•
•
Mounting the RC-8IR device to the wall
Installing the button caps
Mounting the faceplate
Setting of the device
1 Including the factory default IP number: 192.168.1.39 (an IP number is a device's numerical address as expressed in the
format specified in the Internet Protocol)
2 It is recommended to place labels before mounting the faceplate
5
Installing the RC-8IR Universal Room Controller
5.1 Setting the Labels and Button Caps
To install the labels and button caps:
1. Remove the required labels from the supplied button label sheet.
“wings” on the left and right sides, and insert the label inside the cap.
Figure 4: Button Cap Orientation
3. Repeat for all eight caps.
4. Retaining the orientation, place the eight button caps on the buttons of
Figure 5: Placing the Button Cap
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
6
Installing the RC-8IR Universal Room Controller
5.2 Mounting the Device Housing
The device housing is mounted to the wall via the two housing mounting
screws holes, as illustrated in Figure 6:
Figure 6: Mounting the Device Housing
5.3 Mounting the RC-8IR Faceplate
1. Place the faceplate on the RC-8IR so that the two screw mounting holes
2. Insert the two mounting screws and tighten with a screwdriver.
Figure 7: Mounting the Faceplate
7
Using the RC-8IR Universal Room Controller
6
Using the RC-8IR Universal Room Controller
Connecting the inputs and the display Configuration via the Windows®-
Configuration guide. The cable installation process is not detailed in this user
The universal room controller is very easy to use, as the example in Figure 8
Figure 8: Example of a Typical RC-8IR Configuration
1 By authorized Kramer technical personnel or by an external system integrator
2 Refer to the separate online “RC Configuration and Installation Guide” at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
3 Your RC-8IR was installed and configured to suit your specific requirements. This example describes how to setup one of
an unlimited number of available setups for the system
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
8
Using the RC-8IR Universal Room Controller
This connector:
Controls:
RELAY2
RELAY1
The lights
The screen
RS-485 Terminal Block Connector
RS-232 (TX1, RX1) Terminal Block Connector
A power amplifier (and speakers)
A projector1
A DVD player
A video player
Ethernet
The RC-8IR via a remote control PC
A laptop is connected to the projector
auditorium. An overhead projector and screen, speakers, lights; and a cabinet
with a VCR, a DVD and an amplifier inside, are all controlled via the
RC-8IR. The presenter’s laptop is located on the podium, next to where the
RC-8IR is mounted. It is also controlled by the RC-8IR and is used for
presentations, slide shows and so on.
VCR
DVD
Amplifier
Figure 9: Example of a Typical RC-8IR Setup in the Lecture Auditorium
1 The second RS-232 port can be used to control another A/V unit or an LCD
2 Connected via the IR emitter cable. IR OUT1 and IR OUT2 can each be connected to identical machines and still be
controlled separately
9
Using the RC-8IR Universal Room Controller
6.1 Operating the RC-8IR
Each button may be assigned with up to 15 commands.
Table 5: The Commands Configuration
The Label
ON
The Macro Sequence
Power up the projector
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Power up the power amplifier
Power up the DVD player
Power up the video player
Roll down the projector screen
Turn on the speakers
ON
OFF
1 minute delay [for the
projector to heat up]
Vol
UP
DVD
•
•
Turn lights off
The projector selects the PC input
Vol
PC
DOWN
OFF
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Turn lights on
Power down the projector
Power down the power amplifier
Stop the DVD player
HELP
DESK
VCR
Power down the DVD player
Stop the video player
Power down the video player
Roll up the projector screen
Turn off the speakers
Figure 10: RC-8IR Labels
Setup
DVD
VCR
PC
•
•
•
Stop the video player
The projector selects the DVD input
Play the DVD
•
•
•
Stop the DVD
The projector selects the VCR input
Play the VCR
•
•
•
Stop the DVD
Stop the VCR
The projector selects a PC input
Vol UP
•
•
•
Power amplifier volume up
Power amplifier volume down
Call for technical assistance
Vol DOWN
HELP DESK
1 This is only one example among numerous possibilities, each button can be configured as required
2 By the system integrator
3 A macro sequence, including up to 15 commands per button, carried out one after the other
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
10
Using the RC-8IR Universal Room Controller
6.2 An Example of Operating the RC-8IR
Figure 11 shows an operating example:
Figure 11: RC-8IR Operation Example
11
Using the RC-8IR Universal Room Controller
6.3 Using the Macro Buttons
blinks (as programmed by the system integrator).
To solve the problem, summon technical help4
If you want to stop a macro sequence, press and hold that button for 5
seconds. The sequence will come to an end. You can resume operation by
commands from the beginning.
6.4 Locking the Front Panel
The front panel can be locked to avoid unintended tampering with the buttons.
To lock the panel, press and hold buttons 4 and 8 simultaneously for about 2
seconds.
All the buttons blink momentarily and the panel is locked. When pressing a
button at this stage, all the buttons blink twice.
To unlock the panel buttons, press the respective buttons once again. All the
buttons blink momentarily and unlock. You can now use the buttons as usual.
6.5 Turning the Light of the Backlit Buttons On and Off
When the room is darkened, the buttons can be illuminated for convenience.
To turn on the backlight, press buttons 3 and 7 simultaneously.
To turn off the backlight, press the respective buttons once again.
6.6 Using the Internal Web Page
The internal Web page can be used to remotely operate the RC-8IR via the
Ethernet.
To control your RC-8IR via the internal Web page, do the following:
1 The macro sequence can be carried out instantly or can take a while, depending on the delay times included in the sequence
2 Six times per second, as compared with twice per second during normal operation
3 For example, a faulty DVD player
4 In this example, press the HELP DESK button
5 Including the button you kept pressed to stop the macro sequence
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
12
Flash Memory Upgrade
any link defined by the system integrator).
2. Press the on-screen buttons to control the unit.
Figure 12: Internal Web Page Front Panel
7
Flash Memory Upgrade
The RC device firmware is located in FLASH memory, which lets you
upgrade to the latest Kramer firmware version in minutes!
The process involves:
•
•
•
•
7.1 Downloading from the Internet
file: “SetKFRXXX-xx.zip”from the technical support section.
2. Extract the file “SetKFRXXX-xx.zip”package, which includes the
KFR-Programmer application setup, the .s19 firmware file and the Web
Applet dat file, to a folder (for example, C:\Program Files\KFR Upgrade).
3. Install the KFR-Programmer Application.
1 The default IP number is 192.168.1.39, and may be changed by the system integrator
2 File names are liable to change from time to time
13
Flash Memory Upgrade
7.2 Connecting the PC to the RS-232 Port
Before installing the latest Kramer Ethernet firmware version on the
RC-8IR, do the following:
1. Connect the RS-232 port (COM 1) on the RC-8IR to a Null-modem
adapter and connect the Null-modem adapter with a 9-wire flat cable to
the RS-232 9-pin D-sub COM port on your PC.
2. Set the PROGRAM switch to ON.
3. Connect the power on your machine.
7.3 Upgrading Firmware
Follow these steps to upgrade the firmware:
1. Double-click the KFR-Programmer desktop icon.
The KFR-Programmer window appears.
Figure 13: The KFR-Programmer Window
3. Click the File button to select the .s19 firmware file included in the package.
4. Click the Send button to download the file. The Send button lights red.
5. Wait until downloading is completed and the red Send button turns off.
6. Disconnect the power on the RC-8IR.
7. Set the PROGRAM switch to OFF.
8. Connect the power on the RC-8IR.
1 To which the RC device is connected on your PC
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
14
Technical Specifications
7.4 Installing the Web Applet
1. Connect RC-8IR to your PC through computer networking.
2. Start the RC Configuration Software and connect to the RC device (see
3. In the Device menu select Upgrade Applet option and browse to MC.dat
file included in the package.
4. Wait until uploading is completed and the success message appears.
Click OK.
8
Technical Specifications
Table 6 defines the technical specifications:
PORTS:
2 RS-232 on terminal block connectors
1 RS-485 on a terminal block connector
1 ETHERNET RJ-45 port
OUTPUTS:
2 relays on terminal block connectors (36V AC or DC, 2A, 60VAC maximum on
non-inductive load)
2 IR emitters on terminal block connectors
POWER SOURCE:
DIMENSIONS:
WEIGHT:
12V DC, 155mA
11.4cm x 3.7cm x 6.9cm (4.49" x 1.45" x 2.72", W, D, H)
0.3kg (0.67lbs) approx
ACCESSORIES:
Kramer 3.5mm to IR Emitter Control Cable (C-A35/IRE-10), power supply, two
extra M3x5 screws, Java based control software (internal), Windows®-based
Kramer control software
OPTIONS:
Kramer 3.5mm to IR Emitter Control Cable (C-A35/IRE-10), 15 meter and 20 meter
IR emitter extension cables
1 This section is applicable only to firmware version 26.0 and higher and requires RC Configuration Software version
1.26.0.38 and higher
2 On our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
3 Specifications are subject to change without notice
15
LIMITED WARRANTY
Kramer Electronics (hereafter Kramer) warrants this product free from defects in material and workmanship under the
following terms.
HOW LONGIS THE WARRANTY
Labor and parts are warranted for seven years from the date of the first customer purchase.
WHO IS PROTECTED?
Only the first purchase customer may enforce this warranty.
WHAT IS COVERED AND WHAT IS NOT COVERED
Except as below, this warranty covers all defects in material or workmanship in this product. The following are not covered
by thewarranty:
1. Any product which is not distributed by Kramer, or which is not purchased from an authorized Kramer dealer. If you are
uncertain as to whether a dealer is authorized, please contact Kramer at one of the agents listed in the Web site
2. Any product, on which the serial number has been defaced, modified or removed, or on which the WARRANTY VOID
IF TAMPERED sticker has been torn, reattached, removed or otherwise interfered with.
3. Damage, deterioration ormalfunctionresultingfrom:
i) Accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, fire, water, lightning orotheractsofnature
ii) Product modification, orfailureto followinstructions supplied with theproduct
iii) Repairorattemptedrepairby anyonenot authorized byKramer
iv) Anyshipment oftheproduct(claims must bepresentedtothe carrier)
v) Removalorinstallationoftheproduct
vi) Anyothercause, whichdoes not relateto aproduct defect
vii) Cartons, equipment enclosures, cables or accessoriesusedinconjunctionwiththeproduct
WHAT WE WILLPAY FOR AND WHAT WE WILLNOT PAY FOR
Wewill pay laborand material expensesforcovered items.Wewill notpayforthefollowing:
1. Removal orinstallationscharges.
2. Costs of initial technical adjustments (set-up), including adjustment of user controls or programming. These costs are the
responsibility oftheKramerdealerfromwhomtheproduct was purchased.
3. Shipping charges.
HOW YOU CAN GET WARRANTY SERVICE
1. To obtain service on you product, you must take or ship it prepaid to any authorized Kramer service center.
2. Whenever warranty service is required, the original dated invoice (or a copy) must be presented as proof of warranty
coverage, and should be included in any shipment of the product. Please also include in any mailing a contact name,
company, address, and a description of the problem(s).
3. For the name of the nearest Kramer authorized service center, consult your authorized dealer.
LIMITATION OFIMPLIED WARRANTIES
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited in duration to
the length of this warranty.
EXCLUSION OFDAMAGES
The liability of Kramer for any effective products is limited to the repair or replacement of the product at our option. Kramer shall
not beliable for:
1. Damage to otherproperty caused by defects inthis product, damages basedupon inconvenience, loss ofuseof theproduct, loss
oftime, commercialloss; or:
2. Any other damages, whether incidental, consequential or otherwise. Some countries may not allow limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitations andexclusions maynot applytoyou.
Thiswarranty gives youspecificlegalrights, andyou may alsohaveotherrights, which varyfromplacetoplace.
NOTE:Allproducts returned to Kramerforservicemust havepriorapproval.Thismay be obtained fromyourdealer.
Thisequipment has been testedtodeterminecompliancewith therequirements of:
EN-50081:
"Electromagneticcompatibility(EMC);
genericemissionstandard.
Part 1: Residential, commercial and lightindustry"
"Electromagneticcompatibility(EMC)genericimmunitystandard.
Part 1: Residential, commercialand lightindustryenvironment".
FCC* Rules and Regulations:
EN-50082:
CFR-47:
Part 15: “Radio frequency devices
Subpart B Unintentional radiators”
CAUTION!
Servicing the machines can only be done by an authorized Kramer technician. Any user who makes changes or
modifications to the unit without the expressed approval of the manufacturer will void user authority to operate the
equipment.
UsethesuppliedDCpowersupply to feed power to themachine.
Pleaseuserecommended interconnection cablestoconnect themachineto other components.
* FCCand CEapproved using STPcable(fortwisted pairproducts)
KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
16
For the latest information on our products and a list of Kramer
where updates to this user manual may be found.
We welcome your questions, comments and feedback.
Safety Warning:
Disconnect the unit from the power supply before
opening/servicing.
Caution
1
2900-000695
P/N:
Rev:
Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
E-mail: [email protected]
P/N: 2900-000695 REV 1
|