SP Controls SmartPanel - Manual (Page 47)

SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 43
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When the Panel uses RS-232 and Wired Remote/IR
The Configuration Utility uses pictures to indicate the control wires you need to run based on
your projector and configuration decisions. The three possibilities are RS-232, Wired Remote and
IR (the latter two being mutually exclusive).
The Application Note for your projector’s Driver provides specific instructions for the control
wiring you need to run, such as RS-232 pin outs and port names.
Note: Pin outs for RS-232 can vary considerably from projector to projector. Always read the
Projector Driver Application Note for details on how to wire to your projector before
attempting control.
Note: Though you only need to wire the control wires shown, it makes sense to always wire RS-
232 and Wired Remote/IR, in case you reconfigure your Panel later.
Why the Panel uses both RS-232 and Wired Remote/IR
To completely or best control a projector, we often require you to wire both RS-232 and Wired
Remote/IR
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.
RS-232 projector commands are used whenever sensible, as the communication is
comparatively reliable. However, RS-232 is not always feasible, as the projector command set
varies by manufacturer and often by model. While some manufacturers do a good job designing
their command set and protocols, many do not. Finally, some codes, especially dynamic ones
(such as remote mouse controls or checksums), are not easily generated “on the fly.”
Also, IR commands work best in certain cases. They are usually the best choice for commands
which repeat rapidly (e.g., zoom and focus).
Finally, in many cases the commands available via IR/Wired Remote are not available via RS-
232, and vice versa.
Note: In some cases control wiring requirements depend on your input and hidden function
mapping. In these cases, you should be aware (when selecting Hidden Functions and
performing input mapping) that commands that will be sent via Wired Remote/IR are
indicated by a small icon before their names.
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Certain projectors and configurations send all commands via RS-232, or all via Wired Remote/IR.