AMX DESIGN XPRESS V 1.5 Programmer Guide
instruction manual
Design XPress for
NetLinx Studio
version 1.5
Programmer’s Guide
Software License and Warranty Agreement
LICENSE GRANT.
AMX grants to Licensee the non-exclusive right to use the AMX Software in the manner described in this License. The AMX Software
is licensed, not sold. The AMX Software consists of generally available programming and development software, product
documentation, sample applications, tools and utilities, and miscellaneous technical information. Please refer to the README.TXT
file on the compact disc or download for further information regarding the components of the AMX Software. The AMX Software is
subject to restrictions on distribution described in this License Agreement. YOU MAY NOT LICENSE, RENT, OR LEASE THE AMX
SOFTWARE. You may not reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble the AMX Software.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY.
The AMX Software is owned by AMX and is protected by United States copyright laws, patent laws, international treaty provisions,
and/or state of Texas trade secret laws. Licensee may make copies of the AMX Software solely for backup or archival purposes.
Licensee may not copy the written materials accompanying the AMX Software.
TERMINATION. AMX RESERVES THE RIGHT, IN ITS SOLE DISCRETION, TO TERMINATE THIS LICENSE FOR
ANY REASON AND UPON WRITTEN NOTICE TO LICENSEE.
In the event that AMX terminates this License, the Licensee shall return or destroy all originals and copies of the AMX Software to
AMX and certify in writing that all originals and copies have been returned or destroyed.
PRE-RELEASE CODE.
Portions of the AMX Software may, from time to time, as identified in the AMX Software, include PRE-RELEASE CODE and such
code may not be at the level of performance, compatibility and functionality of the final code. The PRE-RELEASE CODE may not
operate correctly and may be substantially modified prior to final release or certain features may not be generally released. AMX is
not obligated to make or support any PRE-RELEASE CODE. ALL PRE-RELEASE CODE IS PROVIDED "AS IS" WITH NO
WARRANTIES.
LIMITED WARRANTY.
AMX warrants that the AMX Software will perform substantially in accordance with the accompanying written materials for a period of
ninety (90) days from the date of receipt. AMX DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE, WITH REGARD TO THE AMX SOFTWARE. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS.
Any supplements or updates to the AMX SOFTWARE, including without limitation, any (if any) service packs or hot fixes provided to
you after the expiration of the ninety (90) day Limited Warranty period are not covered by any warranty or condition, express, implied
or statutory.
LICENSEE REMEDIES.
AMX's entire liability and your exclusive remedy shall be repair or replacement of the AMX Software that does not meet AMX's
Limited Warranty and which is returned to AMX. This Limited Warranty is void if failure of the AMX Software has resulted from
accident, abuse, or misapplication. Any replacement AMX Software will be warranted for the remainder of the original warranty period
or thirty (30) days, whichever is longer. Outside the United States, these remedies may not available.
NO LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL AMX BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES
WHATSOEVER (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS PROFITS, BUSINESS
INTERRUPTION, LOSS OF BUSINESS INFORMATION, OR ANY OTHER PECUNIARY LOSS) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF OR
INABILITY TO USE THIS AMX SOFTWARE, EVEN IF AMX HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
BECAUSE SOME STATES/COUNTRIES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR
CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
U.S. GOVERNMENT RESTRICTED RIGHTS. The AMX Software is provided with RESTRICTED RIGHTS. Use, duplication, or
disclosure by the Government is subject to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of The Rights in Technical Data and
Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-7013 or subparagraphs (c)(1) and (2) of the Commercial Computer Software
Restricted Rights at 48 CFR 52.227-19, as applicable.
This Agreement replaces and supercedes all previous AMX Software License Agreements and is governed by the laws
of the State of Texas, and all disputes will be resolved in the courts in Collin County, Texas, USA. Should you have any
questions concerning this Agreement, or if you desire to contact AMX for any reason, please write: AMX Corporation,
3000 Research Drive, Richardson, TX 75082.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Introduction ...............................................................................................................1
Minimum System Requirements for DXP v1.5: ................................................................. 1
Required Applications .............................................................................................................. 2
Version Information .................................................................................................................. 2
DXP v1.5 System Capabilities........................................................................................... 2
DXP v1.5 Configuration Capabilities ........................................................................................ 2
Supported Subsystems and Equipment ............................................................................ 3
AMX NetLinx Integrated Controllers......................................................................................... 3
AMX Touch Panels .................................................................................................................. 3
MAX Content Servers by AMX ................................................................................................. 4
Lighting..................................................................................................................................... 4
HVAC/Environment .................................................................................................................. 4
Whole House A/V Selection and Distribution ........................................................................... 4
MP3 Players............................................................................................................................. 4
User Interfaces......................................................................................................................... 5
Doorphones.............................................................................................................................. 5
Supported integration!Solutions Applications........................................................................... 5
Related Documents........................................................................................................... 5
Downloading the Application ............................................................................................. 6
Web Update ...................................................................................................................... 6
Design XPress Main Screen ............................................................................................. 6
Project Selection List......................................................................................................... 7
Project Selection List context menu ......................................................................................... 7
Project Sorting.......................................................................................................................... 8
Menu Bar........................................................................................................................... 8
File Menu ................................................................................................................................. 8
Edit Menu ................................................................................................................................. 9
Edit DSS Channels sub-menu ................................................................................................. 9
View Menu ............................................................................................................................... 9
Help Menu.............................................................................................................................. 10
Main Screen Command Buttons ..................................................................................... 10
Setting Program Preferences .......................................................................................... 10
Custom Modifications ...................................................................................................... 11
Adding and Modifying Software ............................................................................................. 11
Common Mistakes ................................................................................................................. 12
esign XPress Programmer’s Guide
i
Table of Contents
Using the Design XPress Project Wizard .............................................................15
Overview ......................................................................................................................... 15
Required Information.............................................................................................................. 15
Launching the Design XPress Project Wizard ................................................................ 16
Project Wizard Navigation Controls ....................................................................................... 16
Using the Design XPress Project Wizard........................................................................ 17
User Information dialog ................................................................................................... 17
System Information dialog............................................................................................... 18
To add a new Room/Location name ...................................................................................... 19
To rename an existing Room/Location name ........................................................................ 19
System Configuration dialog ........................................................................................... 20
Which Screens? dialog ................................................................................................... 21
Audio Zones dialog ......................................................................................................... 22
Setting Up Audio/Video Zones ............................................................................................... 23
Audio Sources dialog ...................................................................................................... 25
Selecting Audio Sources ........................................................................................................ 26
Format of IR Files For Audio Sources .................................................................................... 27
Video Inputs dialog.......................................................................................................... 28
HVAC Zones dialog......................................................................................................... 29
Naming HVAC Zones............................................................................................................. 30
DMS Keypads dialog....................................................................................................... 30
Specifying a location for each keypad.................................................................................... 31
Configuring audio, HVAC and intercom zone control for each keypad .................................. 32
Configuring lighting zone control for each keypad ................................................................. 32
Copying a lighting scene layout from another DMS keypad in the system ............................ 32
SB2 Keypads dialog........................................................................................................ 33
Configuring SB2 Keypads ...................................................................................................... 34
Edit Rooms/Locations dialog.................................................................................................. 34
Door Phones dialog......................................................................................................... 34
Configuring Door Phones....................................................................................................... 35
Touch Panel Declarations dialog .................................................................................... 36
Creating Touch Panel Declarations ....................................................................................... 37
Adding a New Touch Panel Interface:.................................................................................... 37
Choose Background Images dialog ................................................................................ 38
Choose Button Colors dialog .......................................................................................... 39
Choose Button Text Colors dialog .................................................................................. 40
Choose Bargraph Color dialog........................................................................................ 41
Touch Panel Control dialogs ........................................................................................... 42
Address Formats For Supported Lighting Systems ............................................................... 43
ii
Design XPress Programmer’s Guide
Table of Contents
Note for ALD-D48 Lighting Systems ...................................................................................... 43
Note for Radia Lighting Systems............................................................................................ 44
House Lighting Scenes dialog......................................................................................... 44
Control Button Labels dialog ........................................................................................... 45
CD Titles dialog ............................................................................................................... 46
CD Titles Maintenance dialog ................................................................................................ 47
Adding a new CD title............................................................................................................. 47
Editing CD Information ........................................................................................................... 48
Retrieving CD Information (from freedb.org).......................................................................... 48
Removing a CD Title .............................................................................................................. 48
DSS TV Favorites dialog ................................................................................................. 48
Adding a New DSS TV Channel ............................................................................................ 49
Removing a DSS TV Channel................................................................................................ 49
Changing the Name and/or Channel number on an Existing TV Channel............................. 49
DSS Music Favorites dialog ............................................................................................ 50
Adding a New DSS Music Channel........................................................................................ 51
Removing a DSS Music Channel ........................................................................................... 51
Tuner Presets dialog ....................................................................................................... 51
Finishing a Project........................................................................................................... 52
Understanding the Report File ........................................................................................ 53
Installation Instructions........................................................................................................... 53
Device Addressing ................................................................................................................. 53
Wiring/Connections ................................................................................................................ 54
General Information ............................................................................................................... 54
AMX Recommended Equipment List ..................................................................................... 54
Transferring Preset Button Text to the Master via FTP................................................... 54
Opening an Existing Design XPress Project ................................................................... 55
Copying a Design XPress Project ................................................................................... 55
Copy Project dialog ................................................................................................................ 55
Importing a Design XPress Project ................................................................................. 56
Exporting a Design XPress Project ................................................................................. 56
Deleting a Design XPress Project ................................................................................... 56
Using NetLinx Studio....................................................................................................... 57
Working With Your Project ..................................................................................................... 57
Setting Up the Master ............................................................................................................ 57
Addressing the System .......................................................................................................... 58
Addressing the Devices ......................................................................................................... 58
Downloading Software and Transferring Files ....................................................................... 59
esign XPress Programmer’s Guide
iii
Table of Contents
iv
Design XPress Programmer’s Guide
Introduction
Design XPress ™ version 1.5 is a software package to allow AMX dealers to more quickly install a
system that can distribute audio and video in a multi-room environment, control thermostats and
lighting, provide intercom functionality, and display weather data.
Design XPress (DXP) allows control from touch panels, DMS keypads, and SB2 keypads. Refer to
Supported Subsystems and Equipment topic for a complete listing of supported equipment.
The DXP Project Wizard also allows you to specify the type of NetLinx Master Controller to be
used to control the system. DXP supports NetLinx Integrated (NI) Controllers (NI-2000/3000/
4000), and the NXI equipped with an NXC-ME260/64 Master card. The Project 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 you to customize the NetLinx code and touch panel files to accommodate
specific client desires and unique requirements always found in custom installations.
Introduction
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.
Minimum System Requirements for DXP v1.5:
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.
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)
esign XPress Programmer’s Guide
1
Introduction
Required Applications
The following applications must be installed on your PC before DXP v1.5 can be installed:
Microsoft MDAC v2.6 (or higher)
NetLinx Studio v2.2 (build 83 or higher)
TPDesign v3.16 (build 199 or higher)
TPDesign4 v2.4 (build 406 or higher)
KPDesign 1.0 (or higher)
DXP 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 section of the
Application Files page on www.amx.com.
Version Information
The DXP version information is located on the Main Screen (under the Exit button - for example
"v1.5 Build 136"). 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.
This version information includes the version and build number of the actual DXP 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.
DXP v1.5 System Capabilities
Design XPress (DXP) is a Wizard which quickly creates a multi-room control system file set. DXP
generates all required TPD and KPD files along with NetLinx Studio project files. Additionally a
DXP-generated HTML file identifies the specific hardware addressing and cabling configuration
required for setting up the control system hardware. All DXP-created files will operate the control
system without further modification. Add only the manufacturer-specific IR files for each Audio
and Video source to complete the control system. Refer to the Format of IR Files For Audio
Sources section on page 27.
For more customized user interfaces, use TPDesign4 or TPDesign3 to easily customize the Touch
Panel pages and/or buttons to the end-users' preferences in colors and/or button shapes and sizes.
An advanced NetLinx programmer may also use NetLinx Studio to modify The NetLinx source
code for greater customization of the control system.
DXP v1.5 Configuration Capabilities
1-30 Audio Zones
1-8 Audio/Video Sources (MAX by AMX, CD/DVD, CD Changer, DSS, MP3 Players or
Tuners)
1-32 DMS Keypads
2
Design XPress Programmer’s Guide
1-16 Touchpanels
0-32 HVAC Zones (ViewStat ICSNet, ViewStat RS-422 or OPStat)
0-32 SB2 Keypads
0-4 Door Phones (Techlon Instruments, Inc. or Generic I/O based)
0-24 Video Inputs
Supported Subsystems and Equipment
Design XPress (v1.5) supports the following subsystems and equipment:
AMX NetLinx Integrated Controllers
NI-2000
NI-3000
NI-4000
NXC-ME260/64
AMX Touch Panels
Introduction
G4 Firmware Panels:
MVP-7500: Wireless Panel
MVP-8400: Wireless Video Panel
NXT/NXD-CV7: 7" Touch Panel with video
NXT/NXD-CA12: 12" Touch Panel
NXT/NXD-CV12: 12" Touch Panel with video
NXT/NXD-CA15: 15" Touch Panel
NXT/NXD-CV15: 15" Touch Panel with video
NXT/NXD-CV17: 17" Touch Panel with video
The nomenclature " NXT" indicates the table-top (tilt) model, and "NXD" represents
the wall-mount version.
G3 Firmware Panels:
AXT/AXD-CP4/A: 4" Touch Panel
AXD-CV6: 6" Video Touch Panel
AXT/AXD-CA10: 10" Touch Panel
AXT/AXD-CG10: 10" Touch Panel
AXT/AXD-CV10: 10" Video Touch Panel
esign XPress Programmer’s Guide
3
Introduction
The nomenclature " AXT" indicates the table-top (tilt) model, and "AXD" represents
the wall-mount version.
Note: G3 panels do not support PictureFrame.
MAX Content Servers by AMX
MAX-MMS MultiMedia Servers
MAX-IMS Integrated Music Servers
MAX-BSM Backup Storage Module
MAX-AVM Audio/Video Module
Lighting
AMX ALD-D48 (FW build 2.1 or later, via ISCP only)
AMX Radia
Clipsal C-Bus
DynaLite
LiteTouch 5000LC
Lutron GRAFIK Eye
Lutron Homeworks Interactive
Lutron RadioRA
Vantage Q
The Clipsal C-Bus and Dynalite lighting systems are primarily used outside the U.S.
HVAC/Environment
AMX OPStat thermostats
AMX ViewStat thermostats (ICSNET and RS-422)
Whole House A/V Selection and Distribution
AMX AS8/16 audio switcher
PLH-VS8 video switcher
Any audio or video source equipment that uses IR
MP3 Players
Integra NAS-2.3 Net-Tune (XIVA protocol-controlled)
Imerge SoundServer (XIVA protocol-controlled)
4
Design XPress Programmer’s Guide
Marantz DH9300 (XIVA protocol-controlled)
ReQuest ARQ2
Any XIVA protocol MP3 player can be used by specifying one of the supported XIVA
MP3 players, and physically connecting a different player (since the XIVA protocol is
the same across all devices that use it). In this case the name of the player will be
represented by DXP as the selected make and model MP3 player, as opposed to the
actual make/model of the connected MP3 player.
User Interfaces
AMX Touch Panels
AMX DMS keypads
AMX SB2 keypads (for volume control only)
Doorphones
Generic
Techlon Instruments
Introduction
Supported integration!Solutions Applications
i!-Weather
i!-TimeManager
i!-Schedule
Related Documents
This document will not attempt to explain the architecture of the NetLinx software that is
automatically generated by Design XPress. That is left for another document and potentially
another audience. The related documents listed below are all available (as PDF files) on-line at
www.amx.com.
Related Documents
• Design XPress for NetLinx Studio Installer’s Guide Describes installing Design XPress systems.
• Design XPress for NetLinx User Interface Guide Provides a detailed description of the Design XPress for
• NetLinx Studio Instruction Manual Provides a detailed description of the NetLinx Studio
• NetLinx Programming Language Reference Guide Provides a comprehensive listing of the commands that
NetLinx Studio user-interface.
software application.
comprise the NetLinx Programming Language.
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 on AMX.COM for details and scheduling information.
esign XPress Programmer’s Guide
5
Introduction
Downloading the Application
Design XPress 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. We recommend that you download all of the files in the Design XPress directory, or
you may download the compressed file, which contains all of the other files in the directory.
The three Adobe Acrobat files included are intended for different audiences:
The Programmer's Guide is intended for the person using the Design XPress
application.
The Installer's Guide is intended for the person who will be installing the equipment in
the project.
The User Interface Guide is intended for designers, installers, and end-users as a
reference.
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 requires the latest versions of the following applications be loaded prior to the
running the DXP installation executable: NetLinx Studio 2.X, KPDesign, TPD4, and
TPD3. Use the WebUpdate program to obtain the latest versions of these previously
installed products.
Select Help > Web Update to launch this application.
Refer to the WebUpdate on-line help for details and instructions.
The WebUpdate program should also be checked for any available updates to itself.
Design XPress Main Screen
When Design XPress is launched, the first screen to be displayed is the Main Screen (FIG. 1). Use
the Main Screen as the starting point for creating new projects, opening existing projects. The main
page also contains command buttons for copying projects and deleting projects.
The main element on the Main Page is a table called the Project Selection List. When Design
XPress is launched for the first time, one sample project is listed in this table (called "Sample
Whole House", Rev "0").
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.
6
Design XPress Programmer’s Guide
Menu Bar Project Selection List
Introduction
Command Buttons
FIG. 1 Design XPress Main Screen
Version/Release Information
Project Selection List
The Project Selection List is displayed on the Design XPress Main Screen (along with the main
menu and the command buttons). It is a list of all Design XPress Projects that have been created (or
imported) and saved in Design XPress.
To open a project, select the project, then click on the Open Project button or double-click
on the selected project.
To delete a project, click on the project then press the Delete Project button, or the delete
key on the keyboard. A confirm delete request dialog box appears to confirm deletion.
If a project is not exported before deleting, you will not be able to bring the project
back into Design XPress for modifications at a later date.
Right-click anywhere in the Project Selection 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.
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 Design XPress Project Wizard to create a new project. This is the same
• Open Opens an existing project. This is the same as clicking the Open Project command but-
esign XPress Programmer’s Guide
as clicking the Create New Project command button (or selecting File > New).
ton (or selecting (File > Open).
7
Introduction
• Copy Launches the Copy Project dialog, which allows you to specify a Job Name and enter a
• Delete Deletes the selected Project file. The program prompts you to confirm this action before
• Import Invokes the Select Import Design XPress File dialog, which allows you to locate and
• 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
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 Design XPress for modifications at a later date.
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 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.
Menu Bar
Each of the menus in the Main Screen menu bar are described in the following sub-sections:
File Menu
The File menu contains several file control options:
• New Creates a new Design XPress project file.
• Open Opens an existing Design XPress project file.
• Copy Allows you to copy the active project file. This option launches the Copy Project
dialog.
• Delete Allows you to delete the selected Project from your hard drive or database.
• 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 Design XPress application.
8
Design XPress Programmer’s Guide
Introduction
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 Design XPress:
• User Information Opens the User Information dialog, where you can enter and save basic
user information for the active Project (User Name, Company Name,
Phone and E-mail Address).
• Edit DSS Channels Opens the Edit DSS Channels sub-menu, where you can choose to edit
• CD Titles Maintenance Opens the CD Titles Maintenance dialog, where you can add/remove
• Preferences Opens the Preferences dialog, containing various global preference set-
either DirecTV or Dish Network DSS Channels.
and edit CD information (Artist and Title), as well as automatically
retrieve CD information from an on-line CD database (via freedb.org).
tings for Design XPress.
Edit DSS Channels sub-menu
Select Edit > Edit DSS Channels to open the Edit DSS Channels sub-menu, where you can select
the type of DSS Channels to edit:
• DirecTV Select DirecTV from the Edit DSS Channels sub-menu to open the DirecTV sub-
menu, where you can select to edit either DirecTV Music or TV channels:
• Select Music to invoke the DSS Preferences - DirecTV - Music Channels
dialog, where you can add/remove and/or change the names on music
channels for DirecTV.
• Select TV to invoke the DSS Preferences - DirecTV - TV Channels dialog,
where you can add/remove and/or change the names on TV channels for
DirecTV.
• Dish Network Select Dish Network from the Edit DSS Channels sub-menu to open the Dish
Network sub-menu, where you can select to edit either Dish Network Music or
TV channels:
• Select Music to invoke the DSS Preferences - Dish Network - Music Channels
dialog where you can add/remove and/or change the names on music
channels for Dish Network.
• Select TV to invoke the DSS Preferences - Dish Network - TV Channels dialog
where you can add/remove and/or change the names on TV channels for Dish
Network.
View Menu
The View menu contains options for sorting the Project list:
• Sort Projects Click to access the Project Sorting feature. The listed projects can be sorted by
up to four criteria in either ascending or descending order.
esign XPress Programmer’s Guide
9
Introduction
Help Menu
Design XPress provides help information to assist you in developing the system.
• Contents Opens the online help file.
• View System Capabilities Displays a text file detailing the capabilities and resource numbers for
Design XPress systems.
• Web Update Will search the AMX site for an update to the Design XPress software. Selecting Yes will close Design XPress, begin the download of
the update, and run the installation of the update.
• About Displays the Design XPress splash screen.
Main Screen Command Buttons
Create New Project: Click this command button to launch the Design XPress Project
Wizard. Use the 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 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 Design XPress later. To export a Design XPress project, select File > Export
Project.
If a project is not exported before deleting, you will not be able to bring the project
back into Design XPress for modifications at a later date.
Exit: Closes the application and prompts you to save any unsaved changes to your
Project.
Setting Program Preferences
Select Edit > Preferences to open the Preferences dialog, where you can set various user
preferences for Design XPress. The options in this dialog include:
Show Splash Screen on Startup: A toggling option to show the DXP 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.
10
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.
Design XPress Programmer’s Guide
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 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\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 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.
Custom Modifications
There are limitations when creating a system using Design XPress. Design XPress systems can be
customized by adding programming to the "custom.axi" file included in the project, or by
modifying the user interfaces created.
For more information on adding custom modifications we recommend that you attend the AMX
programming classes. The course descriptions and schedules for these classes are available on the
AMX web site at www.amx.com.
Adding and Modifying Software
Each time the Design XPress application is run, it will generate the necessary software files. If
changes are made to any existing software file to modify behavior for job-specific items, the next
time Design XPress is run, those changes will be overwritten.
Among the files created in the project by Design XPress are Custom.axi,
Custom_External_Buttons.axi
custom software changes made in these files will never be overwritten by the Design XPress
application. For example, if a home theater is added to a Design XPress-created system, and those
changes are made in Custom.axi, any subsequent changes made via the Design XPress application
will not affect the home theater code when the files are regenerated.
, and Custom_i!-Schedule.axi. These files are provided because all
esign XPress Programmer’s Guide
11
Introduction
If you make changes to any file other than Custom.axi, Custom_External_Buttons.axi, and
Custom_i!-Schedule.axi, you are taking it upon yourself to not use the application for any further
updates. Using the application will overwrite your changes.
In a sense this is one of the nice features of Design XPress. Because all of the software is made
available, an installer who is a strong NetLinx programmer could use the Design XPress
application as a starting point, and the resulting files could get most of the job complete. The
installer could then go in and modify the software to be job specific and complete the job, never
intending to use the application again. Conversely, there will be installers who will use the
application to do almost all of the work relying on the Custom.axi files for any small changes that
may be required.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake made is modifying the software and then using the application to make
changes.
All software changes outside of the special Custom.axi, Custom_External_Buttons.axi
Custom_i!-Schedule.axi
files will be overwritten.
, and
Only modify the source code generated by Design XPress if there is a strong desire to alter the
behavior of the code. To add features, new subsystems, etc. make the changes in the custom file to
save yourself the frustration.
Design XPress is not a "simple" NetLinx program. Because of the scope and number of features
designed into the system, the code can be quite daunting to someone looking at it, even an
experienced NetLinx programmer. Installers with NetLinx experience should not expect to be able
to modify the software the first time they see it. Most of the features are tied into another feature or
affect another part of the software. The architecture of the system design and the function of the file
being modified should be understood prior to proceeding with changes.
Another common mistake is forgetting to properly address a device. Unless all devices are
addressed as defined in the report file the system will not work as desired.
12
Design XPress Programmer’s Guide
Introduction
esign XPress Programmer’s Guide
13
Introduction
14
Design XPress Programmer’s Guide
Using the Design XPress Project Wizard
Using the Design XPress Project Wizard
Overview
Design XPress uses a Project Wizard to step you through the process of designing a control system.
To launch the Wizard, click the Create New Project button on the Main page.
Before you start, gather all required information for the project, such as the locations
for the user-interface panels, the audio, lighting and HVAC zones, equipment used
(DVD, CD, DSS receiver, etc.), and so on. See the Required Information topic for
details on information that should be gathered before you begin designing a project
with Design XPress.
Required Information
Before you can begin to use Design XPress to build a system you must first gather information
about the installation. The most obvious is the project name and a description of the project.
Additionally, you will need the following information:
A list of where user interfaces will be placed separated grouped by the type of user
interfaces. (DMS keypads, Touch Panels, SB2 keypads, and Door Stations.)
A list of the audio zones used in the project. Audio zones can include up to four groups
that share an audio source.
A list of where intercoms will be needed. (You must already have a DMS Keypad located
in that room.)
A list of the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) zones including which
rooms are served by which zone. Additionally, the zone that includes an outdoor
temperature sensor should be noted.
A list of the audio and/or video sources that will be used. The type of DSS system and a
list of channel and music favorites, if a DSS receiver is included in the system. (Design
XPress can include either a DirecTV or Dish Network system.)
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. Design XPress can include 24 presets.
The following information is needed for each type of lighting system supported by
Design XPress: 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 Design XPress.
This information can be collected in multiple lists or in some instances can be drawn on a floor
plan. Several worksheets are included in the Design XPress help file to assist you in collecting this
information.
esign XPress Programmer’s Guide
15
Loading...