Altinex MT104-100-103 User Manual

MULTI-TASKER™

MANUAL PART NUMBER: 400-0082-005

MT104-100/103

6-IN, 1-OUT VIDEO SWITCHER

TM

CARD FOR MULTI-TASKER™

USER’S GUIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

PRECAUTIONS / SAFETY WARNINGS.............. 2

GENERAL..........................................................2

INSTALLATION .................................................2

CLEANING.........................................................2

FCC / CE NOTICE..............................................2

ABOUT YOUR MT104-100/103............................ 3

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ..........................3

DESCRIPTION OF MT104-100 ............................4

APPLICATION DIAGRAMS................................... 5

DIAGRAM1: RGBHVCONFIGURATION...........5

DIAGRAM2: C-VIDEOCONFIGURATION ........6

DIAGRAM3: INTERNALVIEW ..........................7

MULTI-TASKER™

INSTALLING YOUR MT104-100........................... 8

OPERATION.......................................................... 8

RS-232 CONTROL.............................................8

DESCRIPTION OF COMMANDS.......................8

SUMMARY OF COMMANDS ...........................17

MENU MODE...................................................17

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE............................ 20

LED IS NOTON ...............................................20

LED IS BLINKINGRED....................................20

NO DISPLAY....................................................21

ALTINEX POLICY................................................ 21

LIMITED WARRANTY/RETURN POLICY........21

CONTACT INFORMATION..............................21

400-0082-005

1

1

MULTI-TASKER™

PRECAUTIONS / SAFETY WARNINGS 1

Please read this manual carefully before using your
MT104-100/103. Keep this manual handy for future
reference. These safety instructions are to ensure
the long life of your MT104-100/103 and to prevent
fire and shock hazard. Please read them carefully
and heed all warnings.

1.1 GENERAL

• Qualified ALTINEX service personnel, or their

authorized representatives, must perform all
service.

1.2 INSTALLATION

• To prevent fire or shock, do not expose this unit

to rain or moisture. Do not place the
MT104-100/103 in direct sunlight, near heaters
or heat radiating appliances, or near any liquid.
Exposure to direct sunlight, smoke, or steam
can harm internal components.

• Handle the MT104-100/103 carefully. Dropping

or jarring can damage the card.

• Do not pull the cables that are attached to the

MT104-100/103.

• Insert the card carefully into the slots of the

Multi-Tasker™ without bending any edges.

• When removing a card, please make sure that

the card to which it is attached is also pulled out
simultaneously.

1.3 CLEANING

• This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation
of this equipment in a residential area is likely to
cause harmful interference in which case the
user will be required to correct the interference
at their expense.

• Any changes or modifications to the unit not
expressly approved by ALTINEX, Inc. could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

• Clean only the connector area with a dry cloth.
Never use strong detergents or solvents, such
as alcohol or thinner. Do not use a wet cloth or
water to clean the card. Do not clean or touch
any component or PCB.

1.4 FCC / CE NOTICE

• This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.

400-0082-005

2

2

MULTI-TASKER™

ABOUT YOUR MT104-100/103 2

MT104-100 & MT104-103

6-in 1-out MT Switcher Cards

The MT104-100 and MT104-103 are 6-in 1-out
Video Switcher Cards. These MT Video SW cards
enable 6 composite video sources to be connected
and switched to a single display or recording
device. The MT104-100 can be used together with
one or two Video SW Expansion Cards for up to 22
inputs. See the MT104-101 product sheet for more

information.

Multiple MT Video SW series cards can be installed
into a Multi-Tasker™ enclosure to provide
additional functionality. For example, two MT Video
SW cards can be used to handle the two
components of an S-Video signal (Chroma and
Luma). In order to create a component video
switcher, simply install three of the MT Video SW
cards, one each for the Y, Pr, and Pb (or Y, R-Y,
B-Y) signal components. Similarly, the MT Video
SW series cards can also be used to pass
computer video signals: 4 cards for RGBS and 5
for RGBHV.

The MT Video SW cards utilize solid state
switching technology, and offer the ability to pass
VGA thru UXGA high-resolution video signals
without degradation. Inputs are selected via easy­to-use ASCII commands from a control system or
computer connected to the RS-232 port of a
Multi-Tasker™ enclosure. Also available through
ASCII control is “on-off” output control.

Additionally, by special order you can have VIS
(Vertical Interval Switching) capability added. This
is a feature that eliminates the "glitch" normally
associated with composite video switching.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 3

FEATURES/

DESCRIPTION
GENERAL
Inputs

External Connectors
Internal Connectors (2) 10-pin IDC Connectors

Outputs

Output Connector

Capability

Using 1 Card Composite Video
Using 2 Cards S-Video (Y/C)

Using 3 Cards
Using 4 Cards RGBS

Using 5 Cards RGBHV, VGA thru UXGA

Approvals
Expandability

MT104-100 Up to 2 expansion cards.
MT104-103 Not expandable

Table 1. MT104-100/103 General

MECHANICAL MT104-100/103

Enclosure Slots Required One
Weight 0.43lb (0.19kg)
Shipping Weight 1 lb. (0.45kg)
Connector Panel Black
T° Operating 10°C to 40°C
T° Storage 0°C to 50°C
Humidity 90% non-condensing
MTBF (calc.) 55,000 hrs

Table 2. MT104-100/103 Mechanical

MT104-100/103

(6) BNC Female (Analog

Video or TTL Sync)

(1) BNC Female (Analog

Video or TTL Sync)

Component Video, RGsB,

& RsGsBs

CE/FCC

*

400-0082-005

*

Adapter required. See Table 3, Optional Accessories.

3

3

MULTI-TASKER™

ELECTRICAL MT104-100/103
Input Signals

Analog +/-1.5V (1.5Vp-p)
Or Digital +5V
Impedance 75 Ohms
Type Differential
Return Loss -38dB @ 50MHz
Maximum DC Offset 10mV

Output Signals

Gain 1.05 (+/-5%)
Impedance 75 Ohms
Propagation Delay (Sync) 4nS max.
Rise/Fall time (Sync) 6nS max.
Differential Phase Error 01° @ 4.5 MHz

Power

Power
from MT100-100

MT104-100 100mA 80mA 1.1 watts
MT104-103 125mA 90mA 1.3 watts

Optional Accessories

MS8102CA
MS8112CA

+6V -6V Power

Consumption

6ft., 15-pin HD Male to 5 BNC

Male

6ft., 15-pin HD Female to 5

BNC Male

Table 3. MT104-100/103 Electrical

DESCRIPTION OF MT104-100 4

400-0082-005

4

4

MULTI-TASKER™

Video SW Cards: one card for R, one card for G, one card for B, one card for H and one card for V.

APPLICATION DIAGRAMS 5

DIAGRAM 1: RGBHV CONFIGURATION

Use the MT104-100/103 card for RGBHV switching. One card is needed for each channel, for a total of 5
Connect IN 1 of the R signal card to the R signal from a laptop, video camera, etc. IN 2 will be connected to

the R signal of a Macintosh, document camera, etc. Continue this sequence for each card and signal.
Connect the VID OUT of the R signal card to the R signal from the projector. The same applies to the
G, B, H & V signals. Note: to group multiple cards, see the MT100-100 user's guide for more information.

400-0082-005

5

5

DIAGRAM 2: C-VIDEO CONFIGURATION

MULTI-TASKER™

400-0082-005

6

6

DIAGRAM 3: INTERNAL VIEW

6 IN 1 OUT BNC SW + SIGNAL DETECT + EXPANDABLE + OUTPUT DISABLE

MULTI-TASKER™

400-0082-005

6 IN 1 OUT BNC SW + OUTPUT DISABLE

7

7

MULTI-TASKER™

INSTALLING YOUR MT104-100 6

Step 1. Slide the MT104-100/103 into an available

slot in the Multi-Tasker™ Enclosure in
order to connect to the bus. Make sure
that the MT104-100/103 card fits into
place. Secure the card to the
Multi-Tasker™ by tightening the retainer
screws located on the top and bottom of
the MT104-100/103 card.

Step 2. The LED on the card panel will turn red

indicating that the card is in full operation.
An LED that is blinking red indicates that
the card is experiencing a problem. If the
LED is blinking, see Troubleshooting
Guide in section 8. On the MT104-100, a
green LED indicates that a signal is
present.

Step 3. Connect a coaxial cable from the video

source to the input connector of the
MT104-100/103. Connect the output
connectors of the MT104-100/103 to the
display devices through a coaxial cable.

Step 4. Starting from the left, identify the slot

number where the MT104-100/103 card is
plugged into the Enclosure and note that
it is for RS-232 control.

OPERATION 7

7.1 RS-232 CONTROL

When used in the Multi-Tasker™ Enclosure, the
MT104-100/103 has many advanced remote
control capabilities, which are accessible through
standard RS-232 communication. The actual
controlling can be accomplished through a
computer control system or any other device
capable of sending RS-232 commands.

7.1.1 RS-232 INTERFACE

The RS-232 commands, for the
MT104-100/103, are in a simple ASCII character
format.

1. Square brackets “[ ]” are part of the
command.

2. Use uppercase letters for all commands.

After processing a command, an OK or ER will
be returned as feedback if "F" is included at the
end of a command string.

Commands ending in "S" will be saved into
memory. Commands not ending in "S" will still
be executed but will not be restored when the
system is reset or powered OFF then ON.

7.2 DESCRIPTION OF COMMANDS

400-0082-005

Each command consists of three parts:
Function, Card ID, and Unit ID.

[ Function , Card ID , Unit ID ]
Example: [VERC3U2]
VER = Function

C3 = Card ID or Group ID
U2 = Unit ID

For Function, see a detailed explanation under
each command description.

8

8

MULTI-TASKER™

The Card ID is an assigned value. It is equal to
the enclosure slot number in which the card is
installed. The value can range from 1 to 4 up to
1 to 20 depending on the enclosure.

Card ID 0 (C0) is used for the controller. See
the MT100-100 User’s Guide for details.

The Group ID is a number representing a group
of cards defined with the [WR] command. When
using the Group ID, all cards in the group will
perform the given instruction.

Changing the position of a card will significantly
affect the commands recorded on software
definitions or third party control systems.

The Unit ID has a value from 0 to 9. Unit ID 0
should be used for single unit operation. If the
Unit ID is set to zero, each command may be
used without Ui. Use the command [SETU0],
as explained in the MT100-100 User’s Guide.

Example:
[VERC3]: For Unit ID Zero

[VERC3Ui]: For Unit ID other than Zero
[VERC3]: Equivalent to [VERC3U0]

2. [C]
This command receives the status of the card.
Command Format: [CnUi]
Cn = Card ID (n = # from 1 to max slots)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0 to 9)
Example:
There is one MT104-100 card in slot #4.

Sending the command [C4] to the
Multi-Tasker™ will yield the following feedback:

ON 4 C04
ON 4 = Output 4 is selected and enabled

C04 = The card is in slot 4
If there is no card in slot #4, sending the [C4]

command will not return any feedback.

3. [CnS]
This command saves the current status of the

card. This configuration will be restored after
system is reset or powered off then on.

Cn = card number (n = #1 to max slots)

1. [VER]
This command receives the software version

and card type for the MT104-100/103 card.
Command Format: [VERCnUi]
Cn = card ID (n = # from 1 to max slots)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0 to 9)
Example:
There is one MT104-100/103 card is in slot #2

of unit 3. Send the command [VERC2U3], and
the Multi-Tasker™ Enclosure will return:

MT104-100 690-0158-004
MT104-100 = card type
690-0158-004 = software version

S = save configuration
If Input 1 is enabled, the feedback after sending

the command [C4S], for slot 4, would be:
ON:1 C04 Saved

4. [?]

This command will return general information
about the Multi-Tasker™ and cards installed in
the unit.

Command Format: [?Ui]
Cn = Card ID (n = # from 1 to max slots)
Ui = Unit ID (i = from 0 to 9)

400-0082-005

9

9

MULTI-TASKER™

Example:
A Multi-Tasker™ has a front panel with part

number MT101-101 and contains an
MT104-100. Send the command [?] and receive
the following feedback:

[+MT101-101U0+MT104-100C01]
MT101-101U01 = Panel Number and Unit ID
MT104-100C01 = An MT104-100 is in slot 1

5. [?Cn]

This command will return general information
about the card and its status. It is a function of
both the card and the front panel and is only
available with Multi-Tasker™ Front Panel
systems that have the following firmware:

690-0122-015 = Version 015 or later.
690-0123-004 = Version 004 or later.
690-0124-018 = Version 018 or later.

NOTE: In MTSetup™, send the command
[VER] from the Terminal Window. The system
will respond with feedback similar to the
following:

[690-0122-015 690-0123-004 690-0124-018]

Check the last three digits against the numbers
above to determine if the option is available.

Command Format: [?CnUi]
Cn = Card ID (n = # from 1 to max slots)

Ui = Unit ID (i = from 0 to 9)

The selected input shows the number of the
selected input if the card output is on. If the
output is off, the line will not show any input
number and would be as follows:

+INC04

6. [STA]
This command enables/disables automatic

feedback from the front panel. The command
affects any card with auto-feedback capability,
not just the MT104-100/103. The default at
power on or reset is STA0, OFF.

Command Format [STA1] = ON
Command Format [STA0] = OFF

Feedback Prefix Definitions:
+VR = Firmware Version
+IN = Input Selected

Example:
Command = [ON1C4]

Feedback = [+IN1C04]

+IN = Input Select
1 = Selected Input
C04 = Card slot number

7. [ON]
This command enables one input of a single

card or a group of cards. There are 8 inputs for
the MT104-100 and 6 inputs for the MT104-103.
On the MT104-100, Inputs 7 and 8 are internal
inputs.

Example:
The MT104-100 in slot #4 has Input 4 selected

and the output is ON. Send the command [?C4]
to receive the feedback status.

Each status field begins with a '+' and ends with
the card slot number (ex: C04). The feedback
will be similar to the following:

[+MT104-100C04+VR690-0158-004C04+IN4C04]
MT104-100 = Card Type

VR690-0158-004 = Firmware version
IN4 = Input 4 Selected

400-0082-005

[ONmCnUi]: Single Card
This command enables input “m” and disables

all other inputs.
m = Input Number (m = 1 to max inputs)
Cn = Card ID (n = slot # from 1 to max slots)
Ui = Unit ID (i = 0 to 9)

10

10

MULTI-TASKER™

Example:
All of the inputs on the MT104-100/103 card are

OFF. The card is in slot #5 of Unit 3:

1) [ON1C5U3]: Turns ON only input 1 of the
MT104-100/103 card.

2) [ON3C5U3]: Turns ON only input 3 (input 1
is now OFF).

[ONmGkUi]: Group of Cards
This command enables input "m" for each card

in group "k" of unit "i".
m = Input Number (m = 1 to max inputs)
Gk = Group Number (k = # from 1-8)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0-9)
Example:
[ON1G1U1]: Turns ON input 1 for each card in

Group 1 of Unit 1.
PATH OPTION
[ON…..P]: Sets Path

This command will set the path for the output,
but it is not active until the switch command,
[SW], is executed. Commands ending in "P" are
not executed immediately. The path for outputs
on multiple cards or the same card can be
preloaded.

Command Format: [ONmCnUiP]
m = Input (m = 1 to max inputs)

FEEDBACK OPTION
If "F" is included, use the [ONmCnUiPF]

command or the [ONmCnUiFP] command.
[ON…..F]: Feedback
After processing a command, an OK or ER will

be returned as feedback if "F" is included at the
end of a command string.

Example:
[ON1C2F]: if path is not set

[ON1C2PF]: if path is set

8. [OFF]
This command disables the output of a single

card or a group of cards.
[OFFmCnUi]: Single Card
m = Input Number that is ON (optional)
Cn = Card ID (n = slot # from 1 to max slots)
Ui = Unit ID number (i = 0 to 9)
Example:
Card 5 has Input 1 ON. The following

commands can be used to turn OFF the output.

1) [OFF1C5]: Turns OFF only input 1.

2) [OFFC5]: Turns OFF any input.
[OFFmGkUi]: Group of Cards
This command disables input "m" for each card

in group "k" of unit "i".

Cn = Card ID (n = slot # from 1 to max slots)
P = Path

Example:

There are two MT104-100/103 cards in slots 6
and 7. Use the following commands to enable
input 1 of card 6 and input 3 of card 7
simultaneously:

[ON1C6P]
[ON3C7P]
[SW]

400-0082-005

m = Input Number that is ON (optional)
Gk = group number (k = # from 1-8)
Ui = unit number (i = # from 0-9)
Example:

1) [OFF1G1]: Turns OFF input 1 for each card

in Group 1.

2) [OFFG1]: Turns OFF any input for each

card in Group 1.

11

11

MULTI-TASKER™

PATH OPTION

[OFF…..P]: Sets Path

This command will set the path for the output,
but it is not active until the switch command,
[SW], is executed. Commands ending in "P" are
not executed immediately. The path for outputs
on multiple cards or the same card can be
loaded.

Command Format: [OFFmCnUiP]
m = Input Number that is ON (optional)
n = card ID (n = slot # from 1 to max slots)
P = path
Example:
There are two MT104-100/103 cards in slots 6

and 7. Disable Input 1 of card 6 and Input 3 of
card 7 simultaneously using the following
commands.

[OFF1C6P]
[OFF3C7P]
[SW]

FEEDBACK OPTION
If "F" is included, use the [OFFmCnUiPF]

command or the [OFFmCnUiFP] command.
[OFF…..F]: Feedback
After processing a command, an OK or ER will

be returned as feedback if "F" is included at the
end of a command string.

Example:
[OFF1C2F]: if path is not set

[OFF1C2PF]: if path is set

9. […S] – Save
This command will save the configuration

command being sent in memory. When
sending the command [ON1C4S], after reset or
power up, Output 1 on C4 will be enabled.

10. […F] – Feedback
After processing a command, an OK or ER will

be returned as feedback if "F" is included at the
end of a command string.

11. […P] – Path
This command will set the path for the output,

but it is not active until the switch command,
[SW], is executed. Commands ending in "P" are
not executed immediately. The path for outputs
on multiple cards or the same card can be
loaded. See examples in ON and OFF
commands.

12. [SW] – Switch
The switch command immediately connects

inputs and outputs previously set with the path
command. The command switches all paths set
on this card and all other cards in the enclosure

Example:
[ON1C6P]

[ON3C7P]
[SW]

13. [SIG] – MT104-100 Only
The Signal Present command tests for the

presence of a signal. After sending the
command, the feedback will be either "1"
signifying a signal is present, or a "0" indicating
no signal was detected.

Command Format: [SIGCnUi]
Cn = Card ID (n = slot # from 1 to max slots)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0 to 9)
Example:
To check for the presence of an input signal on

card 4, send the command [SIGC4] and verify
feedback of "1" or "0".

400-0082-005

12

12

MULTI-TASKER™

14. [AUTO] – MT104-100 Only
This command is used to enable or disable the

auto-switching feature. In auto-switch mode, the
first input with a signal detected will be
connected to the output. Use this where only
one active source is expected at a time.

CAUTION: Auto-switch mode disables manual
control of input selection.

Command Format: [AUTO=xCnUi]
x = Auto Mode (0 = Manual, 1 = Auto)
Cn = Card ID (n = # from 1 to max slots)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0 to 9)
Example:
Send the command [AUTO=1C4] to place the

MT104-100 in slot #4 in auto-switch mode. A
status of the card, [C4], will produce feedback
similar to the following:

ON 2 AUTO C04

15. [CLR]

Otherwise, failures will be indicated.
Command Format: [TESTCnUi]
Cn = Card ID (n = slot # from 1 to max slots)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0 to 9)
Example:
There is an MT104-100 in slot #4. In order to

test the internal memory, send the command
[TESTC4].

17. [FBD]
This command turns feedback delay on or off .

It is necessary when installing some newer
cards in older systems. If the system does not
receive all of the feedback from the card, the
card may be communicating too fast. This
command will slow down the card's
communication rate.

Command Format: [FBDmCnUi]
m = Delay (0= no delay, 1= delay 100mS)
Cn = Card ID (n = # from 1 to max slots)

This command resets the card configuration to
the factory defaults. After the [CLR] command,
Input 1 will be selected and ON.

Command Format: [CLRCnUi]
Cn = Card ID (n = # from 1 to max slots)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0 to 9)
Example:
Send the command [CLRC4] to reset the card in

slot #4 to its factory defaults. The feedback after
sending the status command, [C4], will be as
follows:

ON 1 C04

16. [TEST]
This command performs a test on the internal

memory. Upon completion, the system will
display the results. If there are no problems, the
system will display the following:

MEMORY IS GOOD

Ui = Unit ID (i = from 0 to 9)
Example:
The command [HELPC4] is sent to the card in

slot #4. Some of the HELP file is displayed on
the screen, but most is missing. Send the
command [FBD1C4] to slow down the rate at
which the card sends feedback to the system.

CARD ID COMMANDS
The default Card ID is the same as the card slot

number. The next several commands allow the
user to change the Card ID to a value other than
the slot number.

The ID commands work with all Multi-Tasker™
Front Panel systems. However, front panels that
have firmware releases prior to the following will
not be able to address Card ID's greater than
the number of slots in the system:

400-0082-005

13

13

MULTI-TASKER™

690-0122-019 = Version 019 or later.
690-0123-005 = Version 005 or later.
690-0124-019 = Version 019 or later.
NOTE: In MTSetup™, send the command

[VER] from the Terminal Window. The system
will respond with feedback similar to the
following:

[690-0122-015 690-0123-005 690-0124-019]

Check the last three digits against the numbers
above to determine if the Card ID commands
can address all 99 Card ID's.

Some cards require more than one slot in the
Multi-Tasker™ system. As an example, some
matrix switcher cards require 4 slots. If there are
5 of these cards installed, they would be
numbered C4, C8, C12, C16 and C20.
Changing the Card ID allows the user to define
the cards as C1, C2, C3, C4 and C5.

Another use for changing the Card ID is to be
able to use multiple systems without having to
set each unit to a different Unit ID. All systems
may be left as Unit ID 0 for ease of
programming. The cards in the first unit may be
numbered 1-10 and in the second unit 11-20.

18. [RSI]
This command resets the card ID's in the

system. After sending this command, each card
ID in the system will match the slot number of
the card. Use this command along with the SID
commands that follow. The [RSI] command
MUST be used prior to changing Card ID's once
they have already been set.

Command Format: [RSI]
Example:
Send the command [RSI] to the system with

Unit ID 0. The card in slot 1 will have ID 1, the
card in slot 2 will have ID 2 and so on.

19. [SIDn]
This command sets all the cards installed in the

Multi-Tasker™ system to the same Card ID.
After sending this command, all cards will be
addressed with the same ID. Use caution when
sending this command to a system with multiple
board types.

Command Format: [SIDn]
n = Card ID (n = # from 1 to 99)
Example:
Send the command [SID1] to the system. All the

cards in the system now have ID 1. Any
commands that are sent to Card ID 1 will be
received and executed by each card.

20. [SIDnCi]
This command sets the Card ID of a single card

to a number from 1 to 99.
Command Format: [SIDnCi]
n = Card ID (n = # from 1 to 99)

Ci = Slot Number (i = # from 1 to max slots)
Example:
Send the command [SID50C10] to set the ID of

the card in slot #10 to an ID of 50.

21. [SID+]
This command sets the Card ID of all the cards

in a system to their slot number plus the offset
value.

Command Format: [SID+n]
n = Offset amount (n = # from 0 to 99)

The maximum Card ID is 99, so subtract
the highest slot number from 99 to find
the maximum offset. For example, in an 8
slot enclosure, the maximum offset would
be 91. The slot number, 8, plus the offset,
91, equals 99.

400-0082-005

14

14

MULTI-TASKER™

Example:
There are two, 20 slot enclosures to be

connected together during normal operation.
The first unit will use the Card ID defaults which
are equal to their slot numbers. The second unit
will have the same Unit ID, but will have the
card ID's offset by 20.

Connect the computer to the second unit only
and send the command [SID+20] to set the ID
of all the cards in the enclosure to their slot
number plus 20. Reconnect both units to the
computer.

The cards in the first unit will be referenced as
Card ID's 1-20 and the cards in the second unit
will be referenced by Card ID's 21-40.

22. [RSN]
This command reads the slot number of the

card with a specified ID number, and returns the
value to the system to be displayed in the
terminal window. If more than one card has the
same ID, each slot number will be displayed.

Command Format: [RSNCi]
Ci = Card ID (i = # from 1 to 99)
Example:
The card in slot #4 takes up four slots in the

enclosure. Its ID was set to 1 since it is the first
card installed in the system, reading from left to
right. Send the command [RSNC1] to find the
slot number of this card. The system responds
with the following feedback:

4

Example:
In order to display the RS-232 commands

available for the MT104-100/103 card in slot #2,
send the command [HELPC2]. The commands
along with a brief description will be displayed in
the Terminal Window.

24. [WR]
This command groups multiple cards in the

enclosure allowing all the group members to be
controlled simultaneously with the same
command. Each unit may define a maximum of
eight groups.

In Multi-Tasker™ systems with audio and video
cards, boards are typically grouped as follows:

Group 1 = Video Cards
Group 2 = Audio Cards
Group 3 = Video and Audio Cards

If assigning group commands to button
functions, it is best to use the "Press and Hold
on Power Up" to make group settings.

Command Format: [WRCn1Cn2…GkUi]
Cn = Card ID (n = slot # from 1 to max slots)
Gk = Group number (k = # from 1-8)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0-9)
Example:
To group cards 1, 2, and 3 as group 5 of

Unit ID 1, send the command
[WRC1C2C3G5U1]. After executing this
command, cards 1, 2 and 3 will be grouped
together as group 5 of Unit ID 1. The system will
return the following feedback:

23. [HELP]
This command displays information available for

the Multi-Tasker interface commands.
Command Format: [HELPCnUi]
Cn = Card ID (n = # from 1 to max slots)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0 to 9)

400-0082-005

G1=C1C2C3
Now, when a command is sent to G1, each

board in G1 will execute the same command.

25. [RMC]
This command may be used to remove one or

more group members from a group. Reset the
system after using this command for all changes
to take effect.

15

15

MULTI-TASKER™

Command Format: [RMCn1Cn2…GkUi]
Cn = Card ID (n= # from 1 to max slots)

Gk = Group number (k = # from 1-8)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0-9)

Example:
Group 1 consists of the cards located in slots

numbered 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Remove just cards
#4 and #5 from the group by sending the
command [RMC4C5G1]. The system will return
the following feedback:

G1=C1C2C3

26. [RMG]
This command may be used to delete an entire

group, or all groups.
REMOVE ONE GROUP MEMBERS
Remove all the members from the group,

effectively deleting the group.
Command Format: [RMGkUi]
Gk = Group number (k = # from 1-8)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0-9)
Example:
Group 1 consists of the cards located in slots

number 1, 2 and 3. Remove all cards from the
group by sending the command [RMG1]. The
system will return the following feedback:

G1=EMPTY
REMOVE ALL GROUPS
Remove all the members from every group,

effectively deleting all groups.

27. [RD]
This command reads and then displays the

members in each group.
Command Format: [RDGkUi]
Gk = Group number (k = # from 1-8)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0-9)
Example:
The cards in slots 1, 2 and 19 are part of

group 5. Read the member data for group 5, by
sending the command [RDG5]. The system will
return feedback as follows:

G1=C1C2C19
The feedback shows G1 (Group 1) and then the

cards that make up Group 1. In this case,
Group 1 includes C1, C2 and C19.

28. [CLM]
This command removes the members in a

group and leaves the group empty. It is
equivalent to sending the [RMGkUi] command
without card references.

Command Format: [CLMGkUi]
Gk = Group number (k = # from 1-8)
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0-9)
Example:
Group 5 of Unit ID 1 contains the cards in slots

1, 2 and 19. Read the member data for group 5
of Unit ID 1. Send the command [RDG5U1] and
receive the following feedback:

G1=C1C2C19

Command Format: [RMGÜUi]
Ui = Unit ID (i = # from 0-9)
Example:
Group 1 consists of cards 1 and 2. Group 2

consists of cards 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Delete all the
groups by sending the command [RMGÜ]. The
system will return the following feedback:

G1-G8:EMPTY

400-0082-005

Now, clear group 5 by sending the command
[CLMG5U1]. Reread the member data as above
and note the following feedback:

G1=EMPTY

16

16

MULTI-TASKER™

7.3 SUMMARY OF COMMANDS
Card Commands

1) [VER] Receives software version

2) [C] Receives status of the card

3) [CnS] Save card settings

4) [?] Show system cards

5) [?C] Show card information

6) [STA] Enable/disable auto feedback

7) [ON] Turn output ON for card/group

8) [OFF] Turn output OFF for card/group

9) […S] Save card settings

10) […F] Display command feedback

11) […P] Sets the path, preload for [SW]

12) [SW] Switch preloaded output buffer

13) [SIG] Signal Detect

14) [AUTO] Auto-Switching control

15) [CLR] Reset card to default values

16) [TEST] Test internal memory IC's

17) [FBD] Feedback delay on/off

18) [RSI] Reset Card ID’s

19) [SIDn] Set all Card ID’s

7.4 MENU MODE

MENU MODE commands are RS-232 commands
that allow virtually the same functionality as
programming commands. Unlike the programming
commands in the previous sections, 7.2 and 7.3,
MENU commands prompt the user to select from a
list of available options. The system then responds
based upon selections made by the user.

MENU commands may be issued in response to
prompts from within MTSetup™ or other RS-232
communication software.

The MENU driven commands are only available
with Multi-Tasker™ Front Panel systems that have
the following firmware:

690-0122-015 = Version 015 or later.
690-0123-004 = Version 004 or later.
690-0124-018 = Version 018 or later.

NOTE: In MTSetup™, send the command [VER]
from the Terminal Window. The system will
respond with feedback similar to the following:

[690-0122-015 690-0123-004 690-0124-018]

Check the last three digits against those above to
determine if the MENU MODE option is available.

7.4.1 MENU COMMAND DEFINITIONS

Refer to section 7.2 for details on functions and
examples. Following is a cross-reference of
menu mode versus programming functions.

20) [SIDnCi] Set one Card ID

21) [SID+n] Set Card ID offset

22) [RSN] Read Card slot number

23) [HELP] Display available commands
Group Commands

24) [WR] Groups multiple cards

25) [RMC] Remove members from group

26) [RMG] Delete group

27) [RD] Displays group members

28) [CLM] Delete group

400-0082-005

17

17

MENU COMMAND

Control

Select n/a
Save [CnS], [..S]
Clear [CLR], [CLRG]
Switch [ON], [OFF]

Setup

Group [WR], [CLM], [RMC], [RMG]
Status [VER], [C]
Help [HELP]

[?], [?Cn], [...F], [...P],
[AUTO], [FBD], [RDG], [RSI],

Not Available

[RSN], [SID], [SIDnCi],
[SID+n], [SIG], [STA], [SW],
[TEST]

MULTI-TASKER™

7.4.2 USING MENU MODE

SUGGESTION: Before using the menu mode, it
is best to disable the automatic feedback
feature. The values and current settings will be
displayed in the menu mode, but the automatic
feature will display after each setting change
making the menus difficult to read.

1. In order to enter MENU mode, the system
needs to be connected to a computer
running MTSetup™ or other RS-232 control
software.

2. Insert the card into an empty slot and push
in all the way for a secure fit.

3. Reset the system or power the system OFF
and then ON.

4. In MTSetup™, click the cursor in the
Terminal Window and press the ENTER
key.

5. The system will interrogate the enclosure
and return a list of cards installed and their
slot locations.

8. Read each menu carefully, and continue
selecting keys as prompted for further
functions. (Example prompt: "Key= ")

7.4.3 MENU TYPES

1. MAIN MENU

The first menu displayed after selecting the

card is the Main Menu. This menu provides
access to the main functions related to the
card. Press the key representing the menu
item for access. A sub menu will appear
next.

2. SUB MENUS

Each sub menu will display either another

menu (sub menu) or a list of available
options or settings. Press the key
corresponding to the menu choice to
change a setting or select the next menu.

NOTE: Pressing the ESCAPE (ESC) key in

most menus will take you up to the previous
menu without making changes in the
current menu.

Example: 08 (Slot 8): MT104-100

NOTE: Only cards supporting the MENU

feature will be displayed.

5. Find the alphanumeric characters
representing the card whose setup requires
changing. It will be the first one or two
characters in the line.

6. Press the number or letter associated with
the card, and a menu with options available
for that card will appear on the screen. In
the example above, press "08".

WARNING: Do NOT enter any characters

except the one relating to the desired
menu. Pressing ENTER or RETURN after
"08" will force the system back to the
original prompt.

7. After selecting the MT104-100 as described
above, the system will prompt for selections
specific to that card.

7.4.4 MT104-100 MENUS

Following are the menus available to the
MT104-100. The first menu is the Main Menu
only. The second listing is an expansion of all
the menu items available.

The expanded menu contains values that
indicate the current setting or value of a
parameter. The value is usually in parentheses,
or otherwise indicated at the top of a sub menu.
In some areas, additional comments are
provided for clarification.

CAUTION: Pay special attention to the top of
the CONTROL menu. After selecting the
CONTROL menu, THIS CARD or a group will
be identified at the top of the sub menu. Since
group functions may be modified from this
menu, make sure the desired card or group is
selected.

400-0082-005

18

18

MULTI-TASKER™

MT104-100/103 MAIN MENU

PRESS KEY TO SELECT
1: CONTROL

2: SETUP
3: STATUS
4: HELP
ESC: GO BACK

KEY =

MT104-100/103 EXPANDED MENUS

1. CONTROL

CONTROL: FOR THIS CARD
1: SELECT (Select Card/Group for Control)

CURRENT SELECTION: THIS CARD

0: This Card
1: Group 1
2: Group 2
3: Group 3
4: Group 4
5: Group 5
6: Group 6
7: Group 7
8: Group 8

ESC: GO BACK

2: SAVE (Save Card Settings)

ON 1 C03

SAVE THIS SETTING?
1: YES

2: NO

3: CLEAR (Set to Defaults)

RESET CARD TO FACTORY DEFAULT:

* Switch to Input 1
1: YES

2: NO

4: SWITCH (Switch I/O Connection)

SWITCH: (INPUT1)

1: INPUT1
2: INPUT2
3: INPUT3
4: INPUT4
5: INPUT5
6: INPUT6
7: INPUT7
8: INPUT8
ESC: GO BACK; S:STATUS

ESC: GO BACK

2: SETUP

SETUP:
1: SET GROUP ID

SET GROUP ID: (NONE)

1: ASSIGN GROUP ID+
2: DELETE GROUP ID+

ESC: GO BACK

3: STATUS

Equivalent to the [C] command.
Returns the card status.

4: HELP

Equivalent to the [HELP] command.
Displays a list of commands available for the

MT104-100/103 along with a brief
description.

ESC

Returns to the parent menu.

7.4.5 MENU MODE EXAMPLES

All MENU MODE examples assume an
MT104-100 is installed in slot #4. Start by
clicking the mouse in the Terminal window.
Press ENTER and a list of available cards will
be displayed.

400-0082-005

NOTE When entering numeric values (not

selecting menu items) the system may
echo each character as it is typed.

19

19

MULTI-TASKER™

1. Select Input 2

Follow the keystrokes below to select Input 2 as
the source input.

Enter List available cards
04 Select MT104-100 in slot #4
1 Select CONTROL Menu
4 Select SWITCH control
2 Select Input 2
ESC Return to CONTROL Menu
ESC Return to the MAIN Menu

2. Save the card setting

Starting from the main menu, save the card
settings. Follow the keystrokes below.

1 Select Control Menu
2 Select SAVE control
1 Answer YES to save
ESC Return to the MAIN Menu

3. Assign to Group 2

Starting from the main menu, assign the
MT104-100 in slot #3 to Group 2. Follow the
keystrokes below.

2 Select SETUP Menu
1 Select SET GROUP ID
1 Assign GROUP ID
2 Assign to Group 2

The contents of Group are displayed.
ESC Return to SET GROUP ID menu
ESC Return to CONTROL menu
ESC Return to the MAIN Menu

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE 8

We have carefully tested and have found no
problems in the supplied MT104-100/103; however,
we would like to offer suggestions for the following:

8.1 LED IS NOT ON
Cause 1: Card cage is not plugged in.

Solution: Plug card cage in. If the LED lights,

the problem is solved. If the LED is
still not on, see Cause 2.

Cause 2: Card is not plugged in all the way.

Solution: Push the card in all the way. If the

LED is still not lit, see Cause 3.

Cause 3: Card cage slot has a problem.

Solution 1: Test the card in other slots of the

card cage. If the slot was damaged,
the card may work in other slots. If
other slots work and the LED lights,
the problem is the card cage slot.
The card cage may require service.
Call ALTINEX at [phone]. If
the other slots do not work and the
LED is still not on, see Solution 2.

Solution 2: Take any other known good card

with an LED. Insert the good card
into the slot in question. If the LED
lights, then the original card may be
the source of the problem. Call
ALTINEX at [phone].

8.2 LED IS BLINKING RED

4. Display Card Status

Starting from the Main Menu, follow the
keystrokes below.

3 Displays card status
NOTE: The status will be displayed, followed

by the Main Menu being redisplayed.

400-0082-005

Cause 1: The CPU on the card is not

working properly.

Solution 1: Look at the card and verify that

there is no damage. If there is no
damage, see Solution 2.

Solution 2: Verify that all IC’s are seated in their

sockets. If the LED is still blinking
red, see Solution 3.

Solution 3: Call ALTINEX at [phone].

20

20

MULTI-TASKER™

Cause 2 The card and its serial device are

not communicating.

Solution 1: Turn the system OFF and then ON

again. If there is still an error, see
Solution 3.

Solution 2: Call ALTINEX at [phone].

Cause 3: RS485 communication error

Solution 1: Make sure that the card is pushed

all the way into the slot. If there is
still an error, see Solution 2.

Solution 2: Turn the system OFF and then ON

again. If there is still an error, see
Solution 3.

Solution 3: If there is still a problem, call

ALTINEX at [phone].

8.3 NO DISPLAY
Cause 1: The source has a problem.

Solution: Check the source and make sure

that there is a signal present and all
source connections are correct. If
the source is working and there is
still no display, see Cause 2.

ALTINEX POLICY 9

9.1 LIMITED WARRANTY/RETURN POLICY

Please see the Altinex website at

www.altinex.com for details on warranty and

return policy.

9.2 CONTACT INFORMATION
ALTINEX, INC

592 Apollo street
Brea, CA 92821 USA

TEL: [phone]
TOLL FREE: 1-800-ALTINEX
WEB: www.altinex.com
E-MAIL: [e-mail]

Cause 2 The card input is not selected.

Solution: Select the card input. See RS-232

accessible commands in section 7.
If there is still no display present,
see Cause 3.

Cause 3 Cable connections are incorrect.

Solution: Make sure that the cables are

connected properly. Also, make sure
that the continuity and wiring are
good. If there is still no display
present, see Cause 4.

Cause 4: The display has a problem.

Solution: Make sure that the display is

powered. If there is still no display,
call ALTINEX at [phone].

400-0082-005

21

21