I. overview – SP Controls PX2-NRC-1142 User Manual

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I. Overview

What is the NRC and what does it do?

The PixiePro

TM

Networked Room Controller

TM

(PX2-NRC-1142) is generally designed to be the central

control device for audiovisual systems. The NRC can be configured, controlled, and monitored via a
friendly Web interface, and controlled from a wall-mounted button panel (sold separately). You can
control virtually any display device, switcher, or peripheral device using the NRC's single RS-232 con-
trol port, one IR control port, and four low-voltage relays. It also has two general purpose input sense
ports that can detect low-voltage relay closure and initiate actions triggered by external events.

How does it control an audiovisual system?

The NRC can function as a stand-alone control device by connecting it to a network and accessing it
with a Web browser on a computer that is connected to the same network. (In fact, using the Web-
based interface is how the NRC must be configured.) Most people will want in-room control in addi-
tion to Web-based control. In those cases, the NRC can be connected to a PixiePro Modular Panel

TM

(PX2-MP-IR) as its front-end "button-pressing" control interface. The NRC will still be the brains in the
installation and will initiate all control actions, while the Modular Panel will simply provide the in-room
button interface.

The NRC is designed to directly control only the display device (i.e., projector or monitor) with its RS-
232 port and IR port. It can also directly control electric screens and lifts with its low-voltage relays. If
you have other devices to control in the room (e.g., DVD player, switcher, amplifier), you will need to
extend the NRC's capabilities using Control Pucks

TM

. For example, we offer a Puck with four IR ports

(PX2-PUC-IR-4), a Puck with an IR port and an RS-232 port (PX2-PUC-23/-IR), and a Puck with four
relay ports (PX2-PUC-REL-4). Wiring the Pucks and the Modular Panel to the NRC is simple: daisy-
chain them using CAT5 cable with RJ-45 connectors.

How to get the most out of this manual

Most readers probably want to get started configuring your NRC and don’t want to bother reading
through the whole manual. If you’ve never configured one before, you’ll definitely need at least part of
this as a guide. Here’s a quick rundown of what each chapter is about:

Chapter II — Gives a range of examples of what the NRC can do. (First-timers only)
Chapter III — Details how to get a new NRC online and ready to configure. (Necessary for first-
timers, and good to use as a quick reference guide)
Chapter IV — EVERY USER should read this chapter! This walks you through the basics of configur-
ing the NRC. It emphasizes how to configure the NRC to control a single display device. This chapter
is absolutely necessary for all users.
Chapter V — Builds on Chapter IV, and describes how to configure the NRC to control rooms with
multiple different devices, and some of the advanced technical features of the NRC. This chapter
should be read by anyone who wants to use the NRC to control a more complex system than just a
display.
Chapter VI — Scheduling events and security: if you need ‘em, read it. If you don’t, skip this chapter.
Chapter VII — Email alerts and monitoring
Chapter VIII — RS-232 and IR wiring for the NRC
Chapter IX — Connecting SP Bus devices
Troubleshooting — Solutions to common problems

1

Important Safety Instructions

1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding
prong. The wide blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. When the provided plug does not
fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10) Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience recep-
tacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
12) Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the
apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid in-
jury from tip-over.
13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14) Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has
been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or
objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not
operate normally, or has been dropped.

WARNING - To Reduce the Risk of Fire Or Electric Shock, Do Not Expose This Apparatus To Rain Or
Moisture.

Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as
vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.

Electrical Warning

The PX2-NRC-1142 is a low-voltage device. Never install the Networked Room Controller in an elec-
trical back box containing high-voltage wiring. This would cause a serious electrical danger and vio-
late United States national electrical codes.

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