AMX DESIGN XPRESS HOME THEATER V1.3 Programmer Guide
Design XPress Home Theater
version 1.3
instruction manual
Programmer’s Guide
Software
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction ...............................................................................................................1
DXP-HT v1.3 - New Features............................................................................................ 1
Minimum System Requirements .............................................................................................. 3
Required Software Applications ............................................................................................... 3
DXP-HT Version Information.................................................................................................... 4
Downloading the Application .................................................................................................... 4
Web Update ............................................................................................................................. 4
Supported Subsystems and Equipment ............................................................................ 5
Modero (G4) touch panels ....................................................................................................... 5
G3 touch panels ...................................................................................................................... 6
G3 panels do not support the following.................................................................................... 6
AMX NetLinx Integrated Controllers......................................................................................... 6
CD Players .............................................................................................................................. 6
DVD Players ............................................................................................................................ 6
MAX Servers by AMX .............................................................................................................. 7
Lighting..................................................................................................................................... 7
MP3 Players............................................................................................................................. 7
Plasma Displays ...................................................................................................................... 8
Receivers ................................................................................................................................ 8
User Interfaces ........................................................................................................................ 8
Video Cassette Recorders (VCRs) ......................................................................................... 8
Video Projection Devices ........................................................................................................ 9
DXP-HT Main Screen...................................................................................................... 10
DXP-HT Menu Bar .......................................................................................................... 11
File Menu ............................................................................................................................... 11
Edit Menu ............................................................................................................................... 11
View Menu ............................................................................................................................. 11
Help Menu.............................................................................................................................. 12
Project List....................................................................................................................... 12
Project Selection List Context Menu ...................................................................................... 13
Project Sorting........................................................................................................................ 13
Main Screen Command Buttons ............................................................................................ 14
User Information dialog ................................................................................................... 14
Setting Program Preferences .......................................................................................... 15
Getting Started ................................................................................................................ 17
To launch the DXP-HT Project Wizard................................................................................... 17
To Create a New Project........................................................................................................ 17
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Using the DXP-HT Project Wizard .........................................................................19
Before You Start - Required Information......................................................................... 19
Launching the DXP-HT Project Wizard........................................................................... 19
Project Wizard Navigation Controls ....................................................................................... 20
System Information dialog............................................................................................... 21
Adding a Device to the Project............................................................................................... 22
Adding IR-Controlled Devices to the Project.......................................................................... 23
Adding Serial-Controlled Devices to the Project .................................................................... 24
Adding IP-Controlled Devices to the Project .......................................................................... 25
Adding a MAX-IMS or MMS Server to the System ................................................................ 25
Duplicating a Source Device .................................................................................................. 26
Device Considerations when using New Features................................................................. 26
Device Configuration dialog ............................................................................................ 27
Device Configuration dialog - Device Data tab ...................................................................... 27
Device Configuration dialog - IR Mapping tab........................................................................ 30
Mapping a Function................................................................................................................ 31
Removing a Mapped Function ............................................................................................... 31
Device Configuration dialog - Control Configuration tab ........................................................ 32
Device Configuration dialog - Power Control tab ................................................................... 33
Working with MAX Servers .................................................................................................... 34
Which Screens? dialog ................................................................................................... 35
Audio/Video Inputs dialog ............................................................................................... 36
Surround Sound Presets dialog ...................................................................................... 37
Adding a Surround Sound Mode ............................................................................................ 38
Lighting Presets dialog.................................................................................................... 39
Deleting a Lighting Preset ...................................................................................................... 39
Inserting a New Lighting Preset into Lighting Presets list: ..................................................... 39
Editing a Lighting Preset: ....................................................................................................... 39
Resorting the Presets List: ..................................................................................................... 41
Note for ALD-D48 Lighting Systems ...................................................................................... 41
Note for Radia Lighting Systems............................................................................................ 41
Touch Panel Interfaces dialog......................................................................................... 42
To add a new Touch Panel Interface ..................................................................................... 42
Use Picture Frame for Inactivity Page.................................................................................... 43
Use TakeNote ........................................................................................................................ 43
Menu Style for All Touch Panels ............................................................................................ 43
Exclude from Navigation Menu .............................................................................................. 43
Choose Touch Panel Theme dialog................................................................................ 44
Choose Touch Panel Background dialog............................................................................... 45
Choose Touch Panel Buttons dialog...................................................................................... 45
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Choose Touch Panel Text Colors dialog................................................................................ 45
Channel Preset Categories dialog................................................................................... 47
To create new Preset Categories........................................................................................... 47
To edit the Display Name for an existing Preset Category .................................................... 48
Channel Preset dialogs ................................................................................................... 48
Relay Control dialog ........................................................................................................ 49
Adding a Relay Control Definition to the list........................................................................... 50
Editing the Display Name for an existing Relay Control Definition......................................... 50
Deleting a Relay Control Definition from the list..................................................................... 50
Presets for Receiver AM/FM Tuner dialog ...................................................................... 51
Adding a Preset to the list ...................................................................................................... 51
Editing the Display Name for an Existing Preset.................................................................... 51
Deleting a Preset from the List............................................................................................... 52
CD Titles dialog ............................................................................................................... 52
Adding a new CD title:............................................................................................................ 53
Editing CD Information ........................................................................................................... 53
Retrieving CD Information (from freedb.org).......................................................................... 53
Removing a CD Title .............................................................................................................. 53
Using the CD Titles Maintenance dialog................................................................................ 53
Adding a new Disc title (CD Titles Maintenance dialog) ........................................................ 53
Editing Disc Information (CD Titles Maintenance dialog)....................................................... 53
Retrieving CD Information from freedb.org (CD Titles Maintenance dialog) .......................... 53
Removing a CD Title (CD Titles Maintenance dialog)............................................................ 54
System Macros dialog ..................................................................................................... 54
Creating a new macro and adding it to the Project ................................................................ 55
Editing an existing Macro within the Project........................................................................... 55
Navigation and Routing Macros ...................................................................................... 57
Building the Project ......................................................................................................... 58
Finishing the Job ............................................................................................................. 59
The Report File ...................................................................................................................... 59
Transferring Preset Button Text to the Master via FTP.......................................................... 60
Transferring CD/DVD Title Information to the Master via FTP............................................... 61
Uploading a Touch Panel File To a Panel.............................................................................. 61
Configuring Computer Control (G4CC) ........................................................................... 62
Configuring TakeNote ..................................................................................................... 63
Configuring i!-Weather .................................................................................................... 63
Configuring i!-TimeManager............................................................................................ 64
The NetLinx Studio Project.............................................................................................. 64
Editing Your Project ............................................................................................................... 64
Opening an Existing Design XPress - Home Theater Project................................................ 64
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Copying a Design XPress - Home Theater Project................................................................ 65
Importing a DXP-HT Project................................................................................................... 65
Exporting a DXP-HT Project .................................................................................................. 65
Deleting a DXP-HT Project .................................................................................................... 66
Working With IR Files ............................................................................................67
Selecting an IR File to Use.............................................................................................. 67
Searching for IR Files (Search Criteria) .......................................................................... 67
Scanning Directories for IRL Files................................................................................... 68
Setting the Default IR Files Folder .................................................................................. 68
Editing IR Control Information ......................................................................................... 68
Format of IR Files for Audio Sources .............................................................................. 68
DXP-HT Touch Panel Channel Maps ....................................................................69
Channel Maps (Function Codes) - Overview .................................................................. 69
Function Codes:_keyboardVirtual.......................................................................................... 69
Function Codes: AMFM Tuner ............................................................................................... 71
Function Codes: Cable Menu................................................................................................. 71
Function Codes: Cable Tuner ................................................................................................ 71
Function Codes: Cable Video ................................................................................................ 72
Function Codes: CD Changer ................................................................................................ 72
CD Changer Advanced .......................................................................................................... 72
Function Codes: CD List ........................................................................................................ 73
Function Codes: CD List Action Picker .................................................................................. 73
Function Codes: CD List Keyboard ........................................................................................ 74
Function Codes: CD List - Title Only ...................................................................................... 74
Function Codes: Channel Presets ......................................................................................... 74
Function Codes: Channel Preset Categories......................................................................... 75
Function Codes: Controls....................................................................................................... 75
Function Codes: Debug ......................................................................................................... 75
Function Codes: Display ........................................................................................................ 75
Function Codes: Display Advanced ....................................................................................... 76
Function Codes: Display - Projector....................................................................................... 77
Function Codes: Display Video .............................................................................................. 77
Function Codes: DSS Menu................................................................................................... 77
Function Codes: DSS Tuner .................................................................................................. 78
Function Codes: DSS Video .................................................................................................. 78
Function Codes: DVD ............................................................................................................ 78
Function Codes: DVD Changer Advanced............................................................................. 79
Function Codes: DVD Menu .................................................................................................. 79
Function Codes: DVD Video .................................................................................................. 79
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Function Codes: G4CC .......................................................................................................... 79
Function Codes: HELP-ABOUT ............................................................................................. 80
Function Codes: KBKeyboard................................................................................................ 80
Function Codes: KBShift ........................................................................................................ 80
Function Codes: Lights .......................................................................................................... 80
Function Codes: Logo ............................................................................................................ 81
Function Codes: Macros ........................................................................................................ 81
Function Codes: Macros2 ...................................................................................................... 81
Function Codes: Main Page ................................................................................................... 82
Function Codes: Main Page - Static....................................................................................... 82
Function Codes: MAX Audio .................................................................................................. 82
Function Codes: MAX Genre ................................................................................................. 83
Function Codes: MAX Media Search ..................................................................................... 83
Function Codes: MAX Movie Search ..................................................................................... 84
Function Codes: MAX Playlist ................................................................................................ 84
Function Codes: MAX Tracklist .............................................................................................. 84
Function Codes: MAX Video .................................................................................................. 85
Function Codes: MAX Video Transport.................................................................................. 85
Function Codes: MessageBox ............................................................................................... 85
Function Codes: MM - Sources.............................................................................................. 86
Function Codes: MM - Sources2............................................................................................ 86
Function Codes: MP3 Navigator ............................................................................................ 86
Function Codes: MP3 Player ................................................................................................. 87
Function Codes: Projector Video ........................................................................................... 88
Function Codes: PVR............................................................................................................. 88
Function Codes: PVR Menu................................................................................................... 88
Function Codes: PVR Tuner .................................................................................................. 89
Function Codes: PVR Video .................................................................................................. 89
Function Codes: Receiver...................................................................................................... 89
Function Codes: Receiver Surround ...................................................................................... 90
Function Codes: Receiver Audio In........................................................................................ 90
Function Codes: Receiver AV In ............................................................................................ 91
Function Codes: Relays ......................................................................................................... 91
Function Codes: Select .......................................................................................................... 91
Function Codes: Splash ......................................................................................................... 91
Function Codes: TNadvancedControls .................................................................................. 92
Function Codes: TNcolor picker ............................................................................................. 92
Function Codes: TNcanvas.................................................................................................... 92
Function Codes: TNcontrols................................................................................................... 92
Function Codes: TNkeypad.................................................................................................... 93
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Function Codes: TNpenOptions............................................................................................. 93
Function Codes: TNtext ......................................................................................................... 94
Function Codes: TNshape ..................................................................................................... 94
Function Codes: Tuner Presets ............................................................................................. 94
Function Codes: VCR ............................................................................................................ 95
Function Codes: VCR Menu .................................................................................................. 95
Function Codes: VCR Tuner .................................................................................................. 95
Function Codes: VCR Video .................................................................................................. 96
Function Codes: Video........................................................................................................... 96
Function Codes: Volume........................................................................................................ 96
Function Codes: Weather ...................................................................................................... 96
Function Codes: WeatherBrowse .......................................................................................... 97
Function Codes: WeatherConfig ............................................................................................ 98
Function Codes: WeatherDownload ...................................................................................... 98
Function Codes: WeatherLocation......................................................................................... 98
Function Codes: WeatherZipCode ......................................................................................... 98
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Introduction
Design XPress - Home Theater (DXP-HT)™ is a software package developed to assist AMX
dealers in quickly designing, installing and programming a home theater control system. A home
theater control system created using DXP-HT allows the selection and control of audio/video
sources, audio-surround modes, display devices and room lighting among other functions.
DXP-HT allows control via several types of AMX touch panels (see Supported Touch Panels for
details). A wizard-type front-end graphic user interface (GUI) helps you to quickly step through the
process of entering information specific to the home theater system being programmed.
The DXP-HT Project Wizard also allows you to specify the type of NetLinx Master Controller to
be used to control the system. DXP-HT supports NetLinx Integrated Controllers (NI-700/2000/
3000/4000 and the NXI equipped with an NXC-ME260/64 Master card). The wizard will only
allow you to choose a NetLinx Master that is able to accommodate the devices and functions
specified in your Project.
Once the steps outlined in the wizard are complete, the wizard will automatically generate all
NetLinx program files, touch panel files and a comprehensive report file for the system. While
these auto-generated program files can be used as-is, they can also be modified using NetLinx
Studio™, allowing the dealer to customize the NetLinx code and touch panel files to accommodate
specific client desires and those unique requirements always found in custom installations.
AMX University offers several courses that teach basic and advanced NetLinx
programming and system design concepts. Contact AMX University, or refer to the
Training@AMX University page at http://www.amx.com/ for details and scheduling
information.
Introduction
This manual will take you through the steps required to generate a system using DXP-HT.
DXP-HT v1.3 - New Features
Features new to v 1.3 include:
Enhanced Automation: This new selectable option (in the Touch Panel Interfaces
dialog), allows you to exclude specific buttons from the Navigation menu, such as
Display, Lights, Macros, and Relay buttons. It also allows you to customize the DXP-HT
generated touch panel file information by copying buttons from the underlying pages and
providing that functionality onto the current page.
De-select these radio buttons to specify which buttons will be excluded from the output
touch panel pages (within the project file) for the chosen touch panel.
Refer to the Touch Panel Interfaces dialog section on page 42 for details.
Support for additional Modero Touch Panels: DXP-HT now supports the following
additional Modero panels: NXT/NXD-CV7 (7" Touch Panel with video), MVP-7500
(Wireless Panel), and MVP-8400 (Wireless Video Panel). See the Modero (G4) touch
panels section on page 5 for a full listing of supported G4 panels.
XP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
1
Introduction
Support for NI-700 NetLinx Integrated Controller: This new controller is treated the
same as any of the other NI Series of Integrated Controllers. If the project requires more
ports than the NI-700 can provide (2 Serial and 1 IR), it is disabled as a system controller
option.
Support For Output Zones on MAX Servers: When adding a MAX (IMS or MMS)
Media Server as a device to your project, you can now specify an Output Zone number.
The Output Zone must be unique per each server used in a project. For example, if a
system has two MMS servers, each MMS could have an Output Zone 1.
Support of remote serial interface (for Display devices): This new option (in the
Device Configuration dialog - Device Data tab for serial devices) provides far-end
control of display devices using serial control ports. This feature allows you to extend the
"reach" of the control system to control an external display device directly by parsing out
Send Commands to the Serial control ports. This was implemented to communicate to
some display devices that are not located near the Master.
If a Video Display (such as a Projector/Plasma and TV) are chosen to be controlled
via Serial (RS-232), two new fields become available within the Device Data section.
Place a checkmark in the Use remote serial interface field to indicate you are using
an external serial interface or leave it unchecked to use a Serial port on the Master.
If this option is checked, you can choose which port on the serial interface to use by
choosing a port from the drop-down list.
Support for i!-TimeManager: This new option (in the System Information dialog),
prompts you to select a time zone and apply Daylight Savings Time rules, if desired.
Refer to the Configuring i!-TimeManager section on page 64 for details.
Support for i!-Weather: This new support appears as a Source Type (in the Device Data
tab of the Device Configuration dialog).
i!-Weather is treated as a source type and not a controlled source.
Only one instance of i!-Weather is allowed within the Source list.
Refer to the Configuring i!-Weather section on page 63 for details.
Support for G4 Computer Control: This new support appears as a Source Type (in the
Device Data tab of the Device Configuration dialog). G4 Computer Control (G4CC) can
be configured as a source type within a system and is also available for use within every
touch panel that resides within the same system.
DXP-HT is not intended to support 3rd party (free) VNC clients that are downloadable
from the Internet.
Refer to the Configuring Computer Control (G4CC) section on page 62 for details.
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Support for PictureFrame: This new support appears as an option in the Touch Panel
Interfaces dialog page. Selecting this radio box specifies that the output project file for
the chosen touch panel will support the use of the PictureFrame application on the panel's
inactivity page.
Refer to the Touch Panel Interfaces dialog section on page 42 for details.
Support for TakeNote: This new support is added as a selectable option within the
Touch Panel Interfaces dialog page. Selecting this radio box specifies that the output
project file for the chosen touch panel will support TakeNote.
Refer to the Configuring TakeNote section on page 63 for details.
Minimum System Requirements
Windows 2000® (Service Pack 4) with at least 128 MB of installed memory
Windows XP® Professional (Service Pack 1) with at least 256 MB of installed memory
Supported language versions: English, French, German and Spanish
If you are installing NetLinx Studio on a Windows XP or 2000, you must have
Administrator rights to install and run all required System files.
Introduction
Pentium 450 MHZ processor (700 MHZ or faster recommended)
A VGA monitor running at a minimum resolution of 800 x 600
Windows-compatible CD-ROM drive
Mouse (or equivalent pointing device)
Minimum free disk space: 2 GB
Internet Access (for Web Update functionality)
Required Software Applications
The following applications must be installed on your PC before DXP-HT v1.3 can be installed:
Microsoft MDAC v2.6 (or higher)
NetLinx Studio v2.2 (or higher)
TPDesign v3.16 (or higher)
TPDesign4 v2.3 (or higher)
DXP-HT Image File - If the application fails to detect at least one valid set of background
images, and at least one valid set of button images, a separate installation of the Image
File is required. This image installation is available on the DXP-HT section of the
Application Files page on www.amx.com.
XP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
3
Introduction
DXP-HT Version Information
The DXP-HT version information is located on the Main Screen (under the Exit button). It is
important to have the version information when calling AMX Technical Support. The version
information will allow Tech Support to determine if software updates or patches may be available.
The top number (for example, c1.0.12) is the version number of the Configuration
Database. The Configuration Database determines what options are available in the
wizard for different pieces of A/V equipment.
The lower number (for example, v1.3 Build 2a) is the version and build number of the
actual DXP-HT application. A change in the Version number indicates a change in the
functionality of the application. A change in the Build number indicates an enhancement
in the current functionality of the current revision. Every change to the Version number
will also change the build number, but not every change to the Build number will change
the Version number.
Downloading the Application
Design XPress - Home Theater (DXP-HT) can be downloaded from the AMX web site. You must
first log in as a registered user to the AMX web site then, you can proceed to the Software Center to
download the application. You must download all of the files in the Design XPress - Home Theater
directory, or you may download the compressed file, which contains all of the other files in the
directory.
The two Adobe Acrobat files included (in addition to this one) are:
The Installation Guide is intended for the equipment installer.
The User-Interface Guide describes the Touch Panel UI, and is provided as a reference for
designers, installers, and end-users.
Select Help > Web Update to automatically check for program updates. The program
will prompt you to download and install any updates that are available.
Web Update
The AMX WebUpdate program is a stand-alone application that:
Communicates with the AMX website
Allows a user to select from a list of updateable AMX Software programs
Determines the latest version of the selected applications
Returns a listing of available updates and allows a user to download the selected
installation files
Upon request, launches the installation of those downloads
DXP-HT requires the latest versions of the following applications be loaded prior to
the running the DXP-HT installation executable: NetLinx Studio 2.X, TPD4, and
TPD3. Use the WebUpdate program to obtain the latest versions of these products.
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Introduction
Select Help > Web Update to launch this application. Refer to the WebUpdate on-line help for
details and instructions.
Supported Subsystems and Equipment
DXP-HT (version 1.3 or higher) supports the following subsystems and equipment:
AMX touch panels
AMX NetLinx Integrated Controllers
CD (Compact Disc) Players
DVD (Digital Video Disc) Players
MAX Integrated Content Servers by AMX
Lighting
MP3 Players
Plasma Displays
User Interfaces (AMX Touch Panels)
Video Cassette Recorders (VCRs)
Video Projection Devices
Receivers
Serial-Interface Devices
For a more up-to-date list of supported devices, refer to the DXP-HT Supported
Devices document, available online at www.amx.com.
Modero (G4) touch panels
• Modero CV7 (NXT/NXD-CV7) 7" Touch Panel with video
• Modero MVP-7500 Wireless Panel
• Modero MVP-8400 Wireless Video Panel
• Modero CA12 (NXT/NXD-CA12) 12" Touch Panel
• Modero CV12 (NXT/NXD-CV12) 12" Touch Panel with video
• Modero CA15 (NXT/NXD-CA15) 15" Touch Panel
• Modero CV15 (NXT/NXD-CV15) 15" Touch Panel with video
• Modero CV17 (NXT/NXD-CV17) 17" Touch Panel with video
The nomenclature " NXT" indicates the table-top (tilt) model, and "NXD" represents
the wall-mount version.
XP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
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Introduction
G3 touch panels
• CV6 (AXD-CV6) 6" wired touch panel with video
• CA10 (AXT/D-CA10) 10.4" touch panel
• CV10 (AXT/D-CV10) 10.4" touch panel with video
The nomenclature " AXT" indicates the table-top (tilt) model, and "AXD" represents
the wall-mount version.
G3 panels do not support the following
MAX Integrated Content Server
G4 Computer Control
Take Note!
PictureFrame
AMX NetLinx Integrated Controllers
• NI-700
• NI-2000
• NI-3000
• NI-4000
• NXI equipped with a NXC-ME260/64 Master card
CD Players
• Denon DN-C635
• Denon DN-T625
• Denon DN-T645
• Marantz PMD325
DVD Players
• Adcom GDV850
• Denon DVD2900
• Denon DVD3800
• Denon DVD9000
• Faroudja NRS DVP
• Faroudja DVP-1500
• Integra DPS9.1
• Integra Research RDV1
• Kenwood DV5900M
• Marantz DV8400
• Marantz PMD930
• Marantz VC5400
• Onkyo DVS939
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Introduction
• Philips Pro DVD 175
• Sony DVP-CX777ES
• Yamaha DVD-C940
• Yamaha DVD-S2300MK2
MAX Servers by AMX
MAX-MMS and MAX-IMS media servers are supported for G4 touch panels only, via Ethernet
control.
• AMX MAX-IMS / MAX-BSM
• AMX MAX-MMS / MAX-AVM
DXP-HT treats these devices essentially the same as any other Ethernet-controlled device (such as
MP3 players). There are just a few points to understand in order to add MAX servers to a DXP-HT
project:
The MAX-MMS and MAX-IMS servers are Ethernet-control only.
They must be used with AMX G4 touch panels (see Supported Touch Panels).
The MAX-AVM A/V Module(s) connected to the MAX-MMS server must be all set to
output to Zone 1.
Refer to the MAX-MMS and MAX-IMS Installation Guides (available online at
www.amx.com) for details.
Lighting
• AMX ALD-D48· Note: (FW build 2.1 or later, via ISCP only)
• AMX Radia·
• Clipsal C-Bus· Note: The Clipsal C-Bus and Dynalite lighting systems (DXP-
• DynaLite
• Lehigh DX2
• LiteTouch 5000LC·
• Lutron GRAFIK Eye·
• Lutron Homeworks Interactive·
• Lutron RadioRA·
• Vantage Q
• Tridonic DALI Note: The Tridonic Lighting System type does not have feed-
• Other Ethernet - user supplied/modified light
• Other Serial - user supplied/modified lights.axi
HT v1.1 or higher) are primarily used outside the U.S.·
back; therefore, the buttons in DXP-HT will not depress to
reflect feedback.
MP3 Players
• Audio ReQuest ARQ2Pro
• Imerge SoundServer
• Integra NAS-2.3 Net-Tune
• Marantz DH9300
XP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
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Introduction
Plasma Displays
• Hitachi CMP4201
• Hitachi CMP5000
• Marantz PD5020D
• NEC 42VP4
• Runco PL43HDX
• Runco PL50HDX
• Runco PL61GX
• Samsung SyncMaster 403T
• Sharp LCM3700
Receivers
• Denon AVR2803
• Denon AVR3803
• Denon AVR4802
• Denon AVR-5800
• Denon AVR5803
• Integra DTR 9.1
• Integra Research RDC-7
• Kenwood VR5700
• Kenwood VR5900
• Marantz SR6400
• Marantz SR7300
• Marantz SR7400
• Marantz SR8200
• Marantz SR8300
• Marantz SR9200
• Marantz SR9300
• Onkyo TX-DS989
• Pioneer Elite VSX-47TX
• Sony STR-DA7ES
User Interfaces
AMX Touch Panels
Video Cassette Recorders (VCRs)
• JVC SRS365U
• Marantz MV8300
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Video Projection Devices
•Barco IQG300
• Barco IQR300
• ChristieDigital DS30
• ChristieDigital RoadRunnerL6
• ChristieDigital VistaS3
• Digital Projection iVisionSXGA
• Eiki LCXG200
• Epson PowerLite7800p
• Epson PowerLite811p
• Epson PowerLite8150i
• Epson PowerLite8300i
• Hewlett Packard XP8010
• InFocus SP7200
• Marantz VP12S1
• Marantz VP12S2
• NEC Any GT Series
• NEC Any LT Series
• NEC Any MT Series
• NEC Any SX Series
• Optoma EzPro H55
• Optoma EzPro750
• Optoma EzPro753
• Optoma EzPro755
• Runco CL710
• Runco DTV1200
• Runco VX1000ci
• Runco VX5000c
• Sharp Electronics PGA10S
• Sharp Electronics PGC45X
• Sharp Electronics XGC50X
• Sharp Electronics XGC60X
• Sharp Electronics XGV10XU
• SIM2 HT300
• Yamaha DPX1000
Introduction
XP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
9
Introduction
DXP-HT Main Screen
When DXP-HT is launched, the first dialog to be displayed is the Main Screen. Use the Main
Screen as the starting point for creating new projects and opening existing projects. The Main
Screen also contains command buttons for copying projects and deleting projects.
There are three main areas on the Main Screen: the Menu Bar, the Project Selection List,
and the Project Maintenance command buttons.
Version and build information for this version of DXP-HT is listed in the lower right
corner of the Main Screen.
Menu Bar
Project List
Command Buttons
Ver sio n In fo r mat ion
FIG. 1 Design XPress - Home Theater Main Screen
Before creating a new project, you should consider opening the sample project and quickly going
through the various Wizard dialogs, to become familiar with the program.
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Introduction
DXP-HT Menu Bar
There are four items in the menu bar (on the Main Screen):
File Menu
The Design XPress - Home Theater (DXP-HT) File menu contains several file control options:
• New: Launches the Project Wizard, to create a new DXP-HT project file.
• Open: Opens an existing DXP-HT project file.
• Copy: Allows you to copy the active project file. This option launches the Copy Project
• Delete: Allows you to delete the selected Project from your hard drive.
• Import Project: Allows you to import a file into the Project Selection List.
• Export Project: Allows you to export the active Project.
• Exit: Exits the DXP-HT application.
DXP-HT maintains all of its projects in a single database. To move a project from one DXP-HT
installation to another (for example moving a project from your desktop computer to your laptop),
you must export the project from one computer and import the project on the other computer.
dialog.
The New, Open, Copy, Delete and Exit options are also available via the command
buttons along the bottom of the Main Screen.
Edit Menu
The Edit menu provides several customizable settings for DXP-HT:
•User
Information:
• CD Titles
Maintenance:
• Preferences: Opens the Preferences dialog, containing various global preference settings for
Opens the User Information dialog, where you can enter and save basic user
information for the active Project (User Name, Company Name, Phone and Email Address). The user's name and company are used to auto complete the
Name and Company fields within the Project Information dialog. The user's
phone number and e-mail address are not currently used, but are included for
future DXP-HT features.
Opens the CD Titles Maintenance dialog, where you can add/remove and edit
CD information (Artist and Title), as well as automatically retrieve CD information
from an on-line CD database (via freedb.org, on an internet-enabled computer).
DXP-HT, including enable/disable warning messages within the wizard, select a
progress bar style, and select default folders for Projects and IR files.
View Menu
The View menu contains options for sorting the Project list:
• Sort Projects: Click to access the Project Sorting window. The listed projects can be sorted by
up to four criteria in either ascending or descending order.
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Introduction
Help Menu
The Help menu contains the following options:
• Contents: Opens the online help file.
• Web Update: Will launch the Web Update application to search the AMX site for an update to
the DXP-HT software. Selecting Yes will close DXP-HT, begin the download of the
update, and run the installation of the update. You must have an active Internet
connection for Web Update to work.
• About: Displays the DXP-HT splash screen. The Splash Screen displays the version and
build numbers for DXP-HT. The version and build numbers can also be found in
the lower right hand corner of the Main Screen.
Project List
The Project List is displayed on the Main Screen, along with the main menu and the Create New
Project, Open Project, Copy Project, Delete Project and Exit command buttons.
Each Project is listed by Job Name, Revision, Description, and the Last Updated date.
The projects can be sorted in ascending or descending order for each column. Sorting the projects
makes it easier to locate the current revision of a project or the last modified project. To sort a
column, click on the header cell for the desired column.
Clicking on the header cell will toggle the sort order between ascending and descending
orders. You can also set the sort order by selecting View > Sort Projects.
To open a project, select the project and click on the Open Project command button or
double-click on the selected project.
To delete a project, click on the project then press the Delete Project command button, or
the delete key on the keyboard. The Confirm Delete Request dialog requires you to
confirm deletion.
If a project is not exported before deleting, you will not be able to bring the project
back into DXP-HT for modifications at a later date.
Right-click anywhere in the Project List to open the Project Selection List context menu,
and select Sort to access the Project Sorting feature. The listed projects can be sorted by
up to four criteria in either ascending or descending order. After the desired settings have
been selected click the Sort button to return to the sorted project list.
Once a project has been selected, you can use the File menu or the Command buttons to Open,
Copy or Delete the project.
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Introduction
Project Selection List Context Menu
Right-click anywhere inside the Project Selection List (on the Main Screen) to open the Project
Selection List context menu, containing shortcuts to several project-related operations:
• New: Launches the DXP-HT Project Wizard to create a new project. This is the same as click-
• Open: Opens an existing project. This is the same as clicking the Open Project command but-
• Copy: Launches the Copy Project dialog, which allows you to save a copy of the selected
• Delete: Deletes the selected Project file. The program prompts you to confirm this action before
• Import: Invokes the Select Import Design XPress Home Theater File dialog, which allows you to
• Export: Invokes the Export Project dialog, which allows you to specify a name and target loca-
• Sort: Displays the Sort Options window, containing the various sort criteria that can be used
ing the Create New Project command button (or selecting File > New).
ton (or selecting (File > Open).
Project file under a new name. Use the options in the Copy Project dialog to specify a
Job Name and enter a description of the file copy. This is the same as clicking the Copy
Project command button (or selecting File > Copy).
the project file is deleted. This is the same as clicking the Delete Project command button (or selecting File > Delete).
Note: If a project is not exported before deleting, you will not be able to bring the project
back into DXP-HT for modifications at a later date.
locate and select a Project file to import. This is the same as selecting File > Import
Project.
tion for the exported Project file. This is the same as selecting File > Export Project.
to sort the Project Selection List. This is the same as selecting View > Sort Projects.
Project Sorting
Right-click anywhere in the Project Selection List (on the Main Screen) to open the Project
Selection List context menu, and select Sort to access the Project Sorting window. The listed
projects can be sorted by up to four criteria (1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th sort) in either ascending or
descending order:
• None: By default, the sort options are all set to none (no sorting).
• Job Name: Sorts the projects by their Job Names.
• Revision: Sorts the projects by their Revision numbers.
• Description: Sorts the projects alphabetically based on the first character of the project
description.
• Last Updated: Sorts the projects by their most recent save date and time.
Use the four sets of radio buttons to specify up to four sorting operations, in sequential order.
After the desired settings have been selected click the Sort button to return to the sorted project list.
Each of the sort criteria options is based on project data that is either entered or
displayed on the System Information dialog.
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Introduction
Main Screen Command Buttons
Create New Project: Click this command button to launch the Design XPress - Home
Theater Project Wizard. Use the Project Wizard to step through the process of designing
and configuring the system.
Open Project: Click to highlight a project in the Project Selection List, and click the
Open Project command button to open the selected Project. When a project is opened, the
first Wizard dialog (System Information) is displayed.
Copy Project: This option creates a copy of an existing Project, and allows you to give
the copy a new name (via the Copy Project dialog).
Delete Project: This option allows you to delete a Project from the Project Selection List,
and from your hard drive.
To remove a Project from the Project Selection List, without deleting the file from your
hard drive, export the file before deleting. Once exported, you can import the file back
into DXP-HT later.
To export a DXP-HT project, select File > Export Project.
If a project is not exported before deleting, you will not be able to bring the project
back into DXP-HT for modifications at a later date.
User Information dialog
This dialog (FIG. 2) appears the first time DXP-HT is launched, and prompts you to enter the user
information that will be used to identify the designer of the DXP-HT project (Created By, Company
Name, Phone and E-mail Address).
FIG. 2 User Information dialog
14
Once this information is entered, this dialog will not automatically be shown again at
startup, but can always be accessed via the Edit menu.
The checkbox at the bottom of this dialog can be checked to prevent the dialog from
automatically appearing when the program is started, even if no data has been entered.
DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Introduction
This dialog is also used by the Design XPress application to fill-in some data within
the project. This means that if you do an initial installation of DXP-HT you will be
asked to enter your information into the User Information dialog. Once this data has
been entered, you will not be asked for it again. Consecutive launches of the
application display the User Information dialog already populated with the preentered data.
If the application is at some point un-installed and then re-installed, you will be
prompted to re-enter you information. If the No longer show on startup selection
has been chosen/enabled, you will no longer be asked to enter any user data into the
User Information dialog.
Setting Program Preferences
Select Edit > Preferences to open the Preferences dialog (FIG. 3), where you can set various user
preferences for DXP-HT.
FIG. 3 Preferences dialog
The options in this dialog include:
Show Splash Screen on Startup: A toggling option to show the DXP-HT splash screen
when the program is started. If this item is not checked the splash screen can be viewed
by selecting Help > About.
Warn On Duplicate Channel Preset Names and Channels: Alerts you to the creation
of duplicate channel preset names and channels. All Channel Preset names and channels
must be unique.
Warn On Duplicate Tuner Preset Names and Channels: Alerts you to the creation of
duplicate tuner preset names and channels. All Tuner Preset names and channels must be
unique.
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Introduction
Warn On Duplicate IR Functions and Channels: Alerts you to the creation of
duplicate IR functions and Channels. All IR Function and Channel assignments must be
unique.
Warn On Duplicate Lighting Scene Names: Alerts you to the creation of duplicate
Lighting Scene names. All Lighting Scene names must be unique.
Warn On Duplicate Surround Sound Names: Alerts you to the creation of duplicate
Surround Sound mode names. All Surround Sound names must be unique.
Auto Map IR Function on File Selection: With this option enabled, the Auto Map IR
Functions option (in the IR Mapping tab of the Device Configuration dialog) is enabled
by default.
Project Folder: Click the Browse button to navigate to the desired target folder for all
Project saves. By default, the Project Folder is set to:
Program Files\AMX Control Disc\Design XPress Home Theater\Projects
IRLib Path: Click the Browse button to navigate to the desired target folder for all IR
(*IRL) files. By default, the IR Folder is set to:
Program Files\Common Files\AMXShare\IRLs
If you select a root directory (i.e. C:\) as the target directory, DXP-HT automatically
creates a "Projects" folder for the project files. This folder is only created if you target
a root directory (as apposed to any other existing directory).
Default NetLinx Master: The IP Address field allows you to enter the IP Address of the
target NetLinx Master receiving the Project Files.
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Introduction
Getting Started
To launch the DXP-HT Project Wizard
Select the sample project (highlight "Sample Updated for DXPHT 1.3" in the Project Selection
List (on the Main Screen), and click the Open Project command button). This invokes the first
Wizard dialog: System Information, containing a summary of the system information for this
project.
Refer to the System Information dialog section on page 21 for details.
Once all the required information is entered in this dialog, you can proceed to the next dialog by
selecting the Next>> button. When no additional dialogs are required this button will be inactive.
When creating a new project it is important to go through each dialog in order, using the Next>>
button. This helps to insure that no information is missed and that the project configuration is
complete. Later, when editing the project, the Jump to list allows quicker and easier access to
specific dialogs.
When you create a new project, the Wizard dialogs become available as selections in
the Jump To list only after they have been populated with the required data. In this
case of the sample project, all Wizard dialogs are available since the project is
complete.
To Create a New Project
Click on the Create New Project command button. This launches the DXP-HT Project Wizard,
which steps you through the process of designing and configuring a control system.
XP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
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Introduction
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Using the DXP-HT Project Wizard
DXP-HT uses a Project Wizard to step you through the process of designing a control system. To
launch the DXP-HT Project Wizard, click the Create New Project button on the Main Screen.
The results of the DXP-HT project are placed in "Projects\Job Name\Rev #", in the application
directory.
Before You Start - Required Information
Before you begin to use DXP-HT to build a system, you should first gather information about the
installation. The most obvious is the project name and a description of the project. Additionally,
you will need most or all of the following information:
If a CD changer is included in the system a list of the installed CDs or the CD collection
should be available while creating the system.
If an AM/FM Tuner is included in the system a list of the users presets or local radio
stations should be programmed. DXP-HT can include up to 40 presets.
Using the DXP-HT Project Wizard
The following information is needed for each type of lighting system supported by DXP-
HT: system type, baud rate (if applicable), system address, and button or preset numbers.
The lighting system should be configured and programmed before button or preset
numbers are entered into DXP-HT.
This information can be collected in multiple lists or in some instances can be drawn on a floor
plan.
Launching the DXP-HT Project Wizard
There are three ways to approach launching the DXP-HT Project Wizard:
Select File > New.
Click the Create New Project command button (in the lower-left corner of the Main
Screen).
Double-click on the sample project ("DXP-HT Sample Project") in the Project Selection
List.
This invokes the first Project Wizard dialog: System Information, containing a summary of the
system information for this project. If you are starting a new project, the Created By and Company
fields are pre-populated with the information entered in the User Information dialog at startup.
Also, there are two default devices (a Receiver and a Display Device) present in the Device
Information table, ready for you to configure (see the System Information topic for details).
To create a new project, click on the Create New Project command button. This launches the
Project Wizard, which steps you through the process of designing a control system.
XP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
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Using the DXP-HT Project Wizard
At the lower-left corner of this and all Wizard dialogs is a drop-down list titled Jump To.
Click the down-arrow to open a list of all Wizard dialogs, and select any dialog from this
list to jump to that dialog.
Additionally, all of the dialogs in the Project Wizard have a set of Navigation Control
buttons along the bottom of the dialog to allow you move back and forth through the
wizard dialogs, and save or cancel your changes.
When you create a new project, the Wizard dialogs become available as selections in
the Jump To list only after they have been populated with the required data. In this
case of the sample project, all Wizard dialogs are available since the project is
complete.
Project Wizard Navigation Controls
As dialogs in the DXP-HT project are completed, those dialog names are added to the Jump to list.
The Cancel button will cancel the current session and return to the Main Screen. You will
be prompted to save your changes or exit without saving.
You can also go to the previous dialog by selecting the <<Back button. The only time this
button is not active is at the System Information dialog.
Once all the required information is entered you can proceed to the next dialog by
selecting the Next>> button. When no additional dialogs are required this button will be
inactive.
When creating a new project it is important to go through each dialog in order, using the
Next>> button. This helps to insure that no information is missed and that the project
configuration is complete. Later, when editing the project, the Jump to list allows quicker
and easier access to specific dialogs.
When DXP-HT has collected all the information necessary to program the project the
Finish command button will be activated. When this button is selected you will be
prompted to save the project. This command initiates the generation of the Touch Panel
files and the NetLinx code, and should only be selected when all of the project
information and configuration is complete.
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
Using the DXP-HT Project Wizard
System Information dialog
The first dialog in the Project Wizard is the System Information dialog (FIG. 1). This dialog
contains the information used by Design XPress - Home Theater (DXP-HT) to create and program
the control system.
Double-click on any device in the list to access the Device Configuration dialog, containing all
control information associated with the device.
FIG. 1 System Information dialog
The following list describes the items in the System Information dialog:
Note that since the Job Name, Created By and Company names are also used in the NetLinx
program, the characters that you are allowed to use are A-Z, a-z, 0-9, - and _. These fields are all
limited to 40 characters.
• Job Name: Enter the name of the project here. Each new project should be given a
unique Job Name and Description.
• Created By: This field is pre-populated, if this information was entered in the User Infor-
mation dialog. Otherwise, enter or edit the name of the project author here.
• Company: This field is also pre-populated, if this information was entered in the User
Information dialog. Otherwise, enter or edit the name of the company here.
• Description: Enter a description of the project here (8190 characters maximum). Any
alphanumeric character (including punctuation) can be used. Each new
project should be given a unique Job Name and Description.
XP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
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Using the DXP-HT Project Wizard
• Lighting System: Click the down-arrow to open a drop-down list of lighting systems sup-
• i!- TimeManager: The i!-TimeManager section allows you to enable the i!-TimeManager
• Device Information
(Maximum of 32):
ported by DXP-HT. Select the lighting system you are using, or select No
Lighting Control (at the top of the list) if your project does not include any
lighting control.
Additional fields may be displayed depending upon the device configuration
requirements of the selected lighting system. For example, the LiteTouch
5000LC displays a combo box to select the baud rate for communications
with the LiteTouch controller. However, the AMX Radia system does not
have a Baud Rate combo box because it communicates via AXlink.
In addition to selecting the lighting system, DXP-HT will automatically
select the default baud rate if applicable. You can manually set the baud
rate for non-standard systems.
remote time server application, which updates the time information on any
communicating Master running the i!-TimeManager code.
1. Click the Use i!-TimeManager radio button to select a time zone and
apply Daylight Savings Time rules.
2. Select a time zone from the Time Zone drop-down list.
3. Click the Automatically adjust clock for daylight saving changes
radio button to allow the application to automatically adjust the time for
daylight savings.
This table displays a list of all controlled devices currently in this system
(maximum of 32). The devices defined here determine the dialogs and
information required by the rest of the Project Wizard.
Every device that will be controlled by the DXP-HT system needs to be
defined within the Device Information list. The setup and configuration of
the devices is handled on subsequent dialogs in the Project Wizard, but
each device will be listed along with its Display Name, Control Method and
Control Logic, if any.
Note: In addition, any uncontrolled devices, such as computers, that have a
switcher input or output should be defined in the Device Information list.
The Device Information List can be sorted by clicking on the column's
header cell. Clicking on the header cell will toggle between sorting in
ascending or descending order.
Click the Add button to add a device to the list, via the Source Configuration dialog.
Select a device from the list and click the Edit button to edit the control information
associated with that device. You can also edit a device by double clicking on a device.
Click the Duplicate button to duplicate a selected source and its current settings.
Select a device from the list and click the Delete button to delete that device from the list
and remove it from the project.
Adding a Device to the Project
To add a device to your system, click the Add button in the System Information dialog. This opens
the Device Configuration dialog - Device Data tab.
In the Source Configuration dialog (Source Data tab):
1. Select the type of equipment you are adding from the Source Type drop-down list.
2. Enter a name for the device in the Display Name field. This is the name for the device that will
appear on the touch panel.
3. If the device is a CD or DVD player, specify the size of the disc changer (if applicable; by
default this field is set to 1).
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DXP-HT v1.3 - Programmer’s Guide
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