Crestron CNRACKX-DP User Manual

Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

Contents

CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP 1

Description.................................................................................................................................1

Functional Description ................................................................................................1

Physical Description.................................................................................................... 2

Leading Specifications...............................................................................................................7

Setup .......................................................................................................................................... 8

Rear Faceplates............................................................................................................8

Rack Mounting ............................................................................................................ 8

Network Wiring........................................................................................................... 9

Preparation for Use.................................................................................................... 10

Programming the LCD Display ............................................................................................... 11

Front Panel Editor .....................................................................................................12

Creating a Page with Front Panel Editor ................................................................... 12

Object Types..............................................................................................................14

Loading Crestron Control Software......................................................................................... 14

Installing Crestron Development Tools..................................................................... 15

Initial Setup ...............................................................................................................15

File Types..................................................................................................................17

Obtaining Communications....................................................................................... 20

Troubleshooting Communications ............................................................................22

Loading the System Program ....................................................................................25

Copying NVRAM .....................................................................................................26

Testing the Permanent Memory Image......................................................................28

Loading Touchpanels ................................................................................................29

Updating the Control System ....................................................................................29

Problem Solving ...................................................................................................................... 33

Troubleshooting......................................................................................................... 33

Further Inquiries........................................................................................................33

Software License Agreement................................................................................................... 34

Return and Warranty Policies..................................................................................................36

Merchandise Returns / Repair Service ......................................................................36

CRESTRON Limited Warranty.................................................................................36

Operations Guide - DOC. 8151 Contents • i

Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP

Description

Functional Description

The CNRACKX-DP is an integral part of Crestron’s new generation of control system
technology featuring the newest series of Ethernet/local area network (LAN)
compatible control systems. The CNRACKX-DP is a modular “card cage” control
system offering the ultimate in flexibility and customization. The CNRACKX-DP
uses two CNX Control Processor Cards (CNXCPUs) that are automatically (or
manually) switchable to provide redundant system control for fail-safe operation. In
addition to the dual CNXCPUs, the control system has the capacity for 13 expansion
cards. The variety of CNX expansion cards provides a very high degree of
functionality and therefore, this type of system is suitable for relatively large systems.
One external power supply, CNPWS-75 (sold separately) is required for the
CNRACKX-DP.

Expansion Slots

The 13 open card cage slots accept any combination of CNX expansion cards. Two
additional slots are for the dual CNXCPUs that optionally feature Crestron’s exclusive
Direct Processor Access (DPA) ports for Ethernet/LAN expansion of the control
network. These DPA ports provide high-speed access directly to the processors while
maintaining high bandwidth network connections. The DPAs permits 10BaseT and is
ready to support Firewire, ATM, 100BaseT and other future protocols.

LCD Display

An 80-character (two 40-character lines) liquid crystal display (LCD) is located on the
front panel. The display provides extended features, status information, and
troubleshooting indications.

Network Analyzer

To assist with troubleshooting, the CNRACKX-DP contains Crestron’s patent­pending network analyzer to continuously check the integrity of the Crestron network
for wiring faults, marginal system performance or other network errors. For more
information on how to use the network analyzer, refer to the SIMPL™ Windows
help file and use the index to search for “Network Analyzer”.

Operations Guide - DOC. 8151 CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP • 1

CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

Physical Description

The CNRACKX-DP is housed in a black enclosure with silk-screened labels on the
front panel. On the front panel is a single RS-232 computer port, system status light­emitting diodes (LEDs), two reset buttons, a reverse LCD display with menu
function and selection buttons, and a row of slot status LED indicators.

The rear panel provides 13 open CNX expansion card slots and the two CNXCPUs.
On each CNXCPU, there are two Cresnet connectors, a single RS-232 computer
port, and two LEDs. The LAN/DPA ports are available when optional CNXENET+
Ethernet Expansion Cards are installed into the CNXCPUs.

CNRACKX-DP Physical Views

19.00 in

(48.26 cm)

C
O
M
P
U
T
E
R

PWR

NET

ERR

HW-R

SW-R

CRESTRON

P R O F E S S I O N A L C O N T R O L P R O C E S S O R

LAN

RXD

TXD

LNK

ERR

DUAL CPU

MENU

BKLT

INTERFACE CONTROL CARD SLOT

65431 2 7 BA1312111098

CPU

CNRACKX-DP

5.20 in

(13.21 cm)

Front Panel

17.16 in

(43.58 cm)

CNXCPU

CNXCPU

CONTROL

CONTROL

PROCESSOR

PROCESSOR

PWR

PWR

NET

NET

COMPUTER

24

Y

Z

G

C
R
E
S
N
E
T

CRESTRON

LAN

LAN

COMPUTER

DPA

DPA

24

Y

C

Z

R

G

E
S
N
E
T

CRESTRON

Rear View

Ten blank faceplates and mounting screws are included. These faceplates are
installed over the empty expansion slots and additional faceplates are available
through Crestron’s Customer Support. Four rubber feet (supplied) can be affixed to
the bottom of the CNRACKX-DP to provide stability and to prevent slippage when
mounted on a flat surface. The unit may also be rack mounted by attaching metal
flanges, known as ears (also supplied), to each end.

CNRACKX-DP Ports

There is only one CNRACKX-DP port, labeled COMPUTER, on the front panel.
The other ports on the rear are part of the CNXCPUs.

COMPUTER

Computer Connectors

C
O
M
P
U
T
E
R

COMPUTER

Front Panel CNXCPU-B

2 • CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP Operations Guide - DOC. 8151

COMPUTER

CNXCPU-A

Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

The three 9-pin DB9 female connectors shown on the previous page, (one on the

front panel and one on each CNXCPU) are used when programming the

CNRACKX-DP with a personal computer (PC). A standard DB9 female (PC end) to

DB9 male (CNRACKX-DP end) straight-through serial cable (not supplied) is used

to communicate with any COMPUTER port. The ports are electrically connected and

are modem compatible. The null modem cable is not included.

CRESNET

Cresnet 4-Wire and 6-Pin Connectors

24

Y

Z

C
R

G

E
S
N
E
T

On each CNXCPU, there are two parallel network connectors, 4-wire and modular.

The 4-wire male connector (standard Crestron network port labeled 24 Y Z G) is

used to provide regulated 24VDC power to the CNRACKX-DP via an external

power supply that is sold separately. The recommended power supply for the

CNRACKX-DP is Crestron part number CNPWS-75 and for international

configurations, part number CNPWSI-75.

The 6-pin RJ-type modular connector is used for expansion to (or from) SmarTouch

and Cresnet peripherals.

CAUTION: The external power supply provides power to the CNRACKX-DP and

its expansion cards and is NOT designed to fulfil the power requirements of all

devices in a Cresnet system. Depending upon the load factor(s) of the devices, power

supplies and wiring that are independent of the CNRACKX-DP may be required.

Refer to “Network Wiring” on page 9 for additional information.

NOTE: Refer to the latest revision of the Cresnet Network Interconnect Drawing

(Doc. 5411) or Modular Cable Requirements (Doc. 5682) when making connections

to the port labeled CRESNET. These documents can be obtained from the

Downloads page (CABLES and MANUALS Libraries) of Crestron’s website

(www.crestron.com)

. Search for CRESNET.PDF or MODULAR.PDF, respectively.

LAN/DPA

LAN/DPA Connector

LAN

This 8-pin RJ-type port on each CNXCPU is available when
optional CNXENET+ Ethernet Expansion Cards are installed into
the CNXCPUs. Refer to the CNXENET+ Operations &
Installation Guide (latest revision of Doc. 8153) for further
information.

DPA

Operations Guide - DOC. 8151 CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP • 3

CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

CNRACKX-DP System Status Indicators

There are 22 LED indicators on the front panel of the CNRACKX-DP. Four other
LEDs are located on the rear of the CNXCPUs:

PWR

These LEDs (one on the front panel and one on each CNXCPU) illuminate when the
CNRACKX-DP receives power from the CNPWS-75 External Power Supply (sold
separately).

NET

These LEDs (one on the front panel and one on each CNXCPU) illuminate when
either CNXCPU is processing data or communicating with system hardware.

ERR

This LED on the front panel of the CNRACKX-DP illuminates when one or more
error messages are reported by either CNXCPU. These messages may be the result
of hardware or software failure, hardware incompatibility with software definitions,
or a programming error. To read the error message(s), press the MSG (from the
Default Info Menu) and MENU DOWN buttons to examine the error(s). The LED
extinguishes after the last message has been read.

INTERFACE CONTROL CARD SLOT (1 – 13)

These LEDs illuminate when a CNX expansion card is present in a respective slot.

CNRACKX-DP LAN Indicators

These front panel LEDs are active only if optional CNXENET+ Ethernet Expansion
Cards are installed into the CNXCPUs and the CNRACKX-DP is connected to a
LAN.

RXD

This LED illuminates during reception of Ethernet data by either processor slot.

TXD

This LED illuminates during transmission of Ethernet data from either processor
slot.

LNK

This LED illuminates when there are attachments to the Ethernet network.

ERR

This LED illuminates when an Ethernet protocol error is detected.

CNRACKX-DP Buttons

Two buttons are provided on the front panel of the CNRACKX-DP. Refer to the
description of each below. For descriptions of the buttons for the LCD Display, refer
to “LCD Display” on the next page.

HW-R

Depression of this button initiates physical reset of the system.

SW-R

The SW-R button is used to initiate a restart of the SIMPL program. Holding the
button while the CNRACKX-DP is starting (or restarting), sets the unit to a default
mode, the communications baud rate is set to 9600 and no program is executed.

4 • CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP Operations Guide - DOC. 8151

Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

CNRACKX-DP LCD Display

The front panel of the CNRACKX-DP incorporates a reverse mode (yellow on

black) LCD display, shown below. The screen contains two lines with 40 characters

per line, it is used to extend features and gain access to the system including the

SIMPL program. To the right of the display are four menu selection buttons. These

buttons permit the user to navigate through the menus and also to control the

brightness of the display backlight. Below the display are six menu function buttons.

These buttons offer extended features of the CNRACKX-DP. For details, refer to

“Programming the LCD Display” on page 11.

Default LCD Display

Menu Selection Buttons

Menu Function Buttons

MENU

This menu selection button functions as a return and will eventually bring the screen

display to the menu default state.

This button scrolls the listed information UP.

This button scrolls the listed information DOWN.

BKLT

This button adjusts the brightness of the LCD backlight and the front panel LEDs.

PANEL

This menu function button displays a programmable interface offering command

text, indirect text, and hierarchical screen structure. The menu contents are subject to

programming and an example of this display is provided in “Programming the LCD

Display”.

INFO

This button displays a default Information Menu, shown below. System remarks

(including the loaded SIMPL program version), card slot status including the types

of CNX expansion cards installed, and the Cresnet network devices detected can be

displayed. The operating system/monitor ROM version, the date and time that

system program was last updated, and the communication settings are also displayed.

Default Info Menu

Operations Guide - DOC. 8151 CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP • 5

CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

MSG

This button displays system error messages or alarms. If there are one or more errors,
press the

NOTE: Error messages may be the result of hardware or software failure, hardware
incompatibility with software definitions, or a programming error. After the last
message has been read, the ERR front panel LED extinguishes.

Example Message

TIME

This menu can only be obtained by entering the correct access code. The default
access code is 1234. The default Time Menu, shown after this paragraph, permits
alterations to the CNRACKX-DP date and time. Selecting a date/time parameter
from the menu increments it by one. Additional incremental or decremental changes
can then be done by depressing the

menu selection button to see the next message.

and menu selection buttons, respectively.

Default Time Menu

DP

This button displays the CNRACKX-DP (processor) Manager. The CPU menu
function button selects and displays the CNXCPU that is active. Pressing this button
resets the CNRACKX-DP and makes the other CNXCPU the active processor. The
display CPU=A, as shown below, is the default and CNXCPU-A is active.

The Watchdog function is selected or deselected by either of the two Watchdog
buttons. When this function is ON (the default mode), the CNRACKX-DP is allowed
to automatically switch processors as needed. When OFF, the processors are
prevented from switching. The OFF option is available only while in the DP menu,
upon leaving the DP menu, the Watchdog resets to ON.

Default Dual Processor Manager Menu

6 • CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP Operations Guide - DOC. 8151

Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

Leading Specifications

The tables below provide a summary of leading specifications for the CNRACKX-DP.
Dimensions and weight are rounded to the nearest hundredth unit.

Leading Specifications of the CNRACKX-DP

SPECIFICATION DETAILS

Power Requirements

SIMPL Windows

Stand-Alone Viewport

CNX Upgrade File

Reset Buttons

LCD Display

Dimensions & Weight

1

CAUTION: The total load factor of the CNRACKX-DP depends upon the

components of the control system. Add the power requirements of the
CNRACKX-DP plus the two CNXCPU requirements plus the requirements of
any other expansion cards. Do not exceed 75 watts for the total load factor.

2

The latest software versions can be obtained from the Downloads page

(SIMPLWIN Library) of Crestron’s website (www.crestron.com). New users are
required to register in order to obtain access to the FTP site.

3

The Stand-Alone Viewport is NOT required if the Viewport included with

VisionTools Pro-e v2.05 or SIMPL Windows v1.31 (not available at time of
publication) or later is used. If required, the Stand-Alone Viewport must be
installed into a SEPARATE DIRECTORY other than the SIMPL directory. The
latest version can be obtained from the Downloads page (SPECIAL Library) of
Crestron’s website. Search for VPORT32.ZIP.

4

CNX upgrade files are required for CNRACKX-DP (use CNRACKX upgrade

file). Filenames for update files have a UPZ extension and can be obtained from
the Downloads page (OPSYS Library) of Crestron’s website.

5

Listed weight is for CNRACKX-DP with CNXCPU-A, CNXCPU-B and no other

expansion cards.

CNRACKX-DP Card Slots (From rear panel, RIGHT to LEFT)

SLOT DETAILS

CPU A Card slot for CNXCPU-A.

CPU B Card slot for CNXCPU-B.

1 through 13 (13) open "card cage" slots accept any CNX Expansion Card.

24VDC from one CNPWS-75 External Power
Supply (not supplied), load factor for the
CNRACKX-DP (2 Watts for the front panel display
and indicators plus 4 Watts for CNXCPU-A plus 4

Watts for CNXCPU-B) is 10 Watts.

Version 1.30.01 or later

smwlib58.exe and smwlib58.txt.

Version 1.55 or later

Version 5.07.00w.upz or later.
HW-R (permits physical reset of system) &
SW-R (restarts SIMPL program).
Reverse mode (yellow on black) LCD backlight;

2-lines, 40 characters per line.

Height: 5.20 in (13.21 cm)
Width: 19.00 in (48.26 cm)
Depth: 8.31 in (21.12 cm)

Weight: 8.31 lb (3.78 kg)

2

with the addition of

3

5

1

2

4

Operations Guide - DOC. 8151 CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP • 7

CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

As of the date of manufacture, this unit has been tested and found to comply with
specifications for CE marking.

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

Setup

Rear Faceplates

Blank faceplates for the empty expansion slots at rear of the CNRACKX-DP are
included but are not shipped installed. Ten faceplates (mounting screws included) are
provided and additional faceplates are available through Crestron’s Customer
Support. After any additional CNX expansion cards have been installed into the
CNRACKX-DP, install blank faceplates onto any remaining empty expansion slots.

CAUTION: Do not over-tighten the faceplate mounting screws. Tighten screws to
4-inch pounds (.45 Nm).

Rack Mounting

WARNING: To prevent bodily injury when mounting or servicing this unit in a
rack, take special precautions to ensure that the system remains stable. The following
guidelines are provided to ensure your safety:

 The unit should be mounted at the bottom of the rack if it is the only unit in the

rack.

 When mounting this unit in a partially filled rack, load the rack from the bottom

to the top with the heaviest component at the bottom of the rack.

 If the rack is provided with stabilizing devices, install the stabilizers before

mounting or servicing the unit in the rack.

NOTE: If rack mounting is not required, rubber feet are provided for table-top
mounting or stacking. On the underside of the unit, apply two of the feet at the rear
corners and the remaining two approximately one inch from the front corners.

NOTE: Reliable grounding of rack mounted equipment should be maintained.
Particular attention should be given to supply connections other than direct
connections to the branch circuit (e.g., use of power strips).

8 • CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP Operations Guide - DOC. 8151

Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

Two “rack ears” are provided with the CNRACKX-DP so that the unit can be rack

mounted. These ears must be installed prior to mounting. Complete the procedure

below to attach ears to CNRACKX-DP:

1. At the left-front side of the unit, position a rack ear so that its drilled
holes align with the four unused holes and secure the ear with four
supplied #6-32 screws, as shown below.

Ear Attachment for Rack Mounting

SECURE WITH
FOUR #6-32 SCREWS
PER EAR (SUPPLIED)

2. Repeat the first step of this procedure to attach the remaining ear to the
right-front side.

Network Wiring

NOTE: This section only applies to those applications using 4-wire Cresnet wiring.

NOTE: When making connections to the 4-wire port labeled CRESNET, refer to

the latest revision of the Cresnet Network Interconnect Drawing (Doc. 5411). This
document can be obtained from the Downloads page (CABLES and MANUALS
Libraries) of Crestron’s website (www.crestron.com)

When calculating the wire gauge for a particular network run, the length of the run
and the power factor of each network unit to be connected must be taken into
consideration. If network units are to be daisy-chained on the run, the power factor
of each network unit to be daisy-chained must be added together to determine the
power factor of the entire chain. The length of the run in feet and the power factor of
the run should be used in the following resistance equation to calculate the value on
the right side of the equation.

Resistance Equation

40,000

Where:

R <

L x PF

The required wire gauge should be chosen such that the resistance value is less than
the value calculated in the resistance equation. Refer to the table after this paragraph.

R = Resistance (refer to table below).
L = Length of run (or chain) in feet.

PF = Power factor of entire run (or chain).

. Search for CRESNET.PDF.

Operations Guide - DOC. 8151 CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP • 9

CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

Wire Gauge Values

RESISTANCE (R) WIRE GAUGE

4

6

10

15

13

8.7

NOTE: All network wiring must consist of two twisted-pairs. One twisted pair is
the +24V conductor and the GND conductor and the other twisted pair is the Y
conductor and the Z conductor.

NOTE: When daisy-chaining Cresnet units, strip the ends of the wires carefully to
avoid nicking the conductors. Twist together the ends of the wires that share a pin on
the network connector, and tin the twisted connection. Apply solder only to the ends
of the twisted wires. Avoid tinning too far up the wires or the end becomes brittle.
Insert the tinned connection into the Cresnet connector and tighten the retaining
screw. Repeat the procedure for the other three conductors.

16

18

20

22

Doubled CAT5

Tripled CAT5

Preparation for Use

Refer to the hookup diagram on the next page. Aside from attaching power last,
complete the connections in any order. The serial cable to the PC may be attached to
the DB9 connector (COMPUTER) of the CNRACKX-DP front panel or either
CNXCPU.

CAUTION: The external power supply provides power to the CNRACKX-DP and
its expansion cards and is NOT designed to fulfil the power requirements of all
devices in a Cresnet system. Depending upon the load factor(s) of the devices, power
supplies and wiring that are independent of the CNRACKX-DP may be required.
Refer to “Network Wiring” on page 9 for additional information.

CAUTION: The CNRACKX-DP is designed to be operated with only one
CNPWS-75 or CNPWSI-75 External Power Supply. Do not connect more than one
power supply to the CNRACKX-DP.

CAUTION: To prevent overheating, do not operate this product in an area that
exceeds the recommended ambient temperature of 104°F (40°C). Consideration must
be given if installed in a closed or multi-unit rack assembly since the operating
ambient temperature of the rack environment may be greater than the room ambient.
Contact with thermal insulating materials should be avoided on all sides of the unit.

CAUTION: Care must be given to connecting units to the supply circuit so that
wiring is not overloaded. The ratings on the supply input should be considered in this
concern. Refer to “Network Wiring” on the previous page for further information.

CAUTION: If making connections to the modular port labeled CRESNET, DO
NOT use 6-conductor telephone cables. Telephone cables are wired in a crisscross

fashion and are not compatible with Crestron equipment. Refer to the latest revision
of Modular Cable Requirements (Doc. 5682). This document can be obtained from

10 • CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP Operations Guide - DOC. 8151

Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

the Downloads page (CABLES and MANUALS Libraries) of Crestron’s website
(www.crestron.com). Search for MODULAR.PDF.

NOTE: Since the plug on the power supply cord is used to disconnect power from
the unit, the socket-outlet should be installed near the equipment and shall be easily
accessible.

Hookup Connections for CNRACKX-DP

TO SERIAL

PORT ON PC

(PARALLEL DB9

CONNECTOR ALSO

ON CNRACKX-DP

FRONT PANEL)

OPTIONAL ETHERNET

EXPANSION CARDS

TO ETHERNET OR

LOCAL AREA NETWORK

CNXCPU

CONTROL

PROCESSOR

PWR

NET

COMPUTER

24

Y

C

Z

R

G

E
S
N
E
T

CRESTRON

LAN

DPA

CNXCPU

CONTROL

PROCESSOR

PWR

NET

COMPUTER

24

Y

C

Z

R

G

E
S
N
E
T

CRESTRON

TO OR FROM

ANY STS

OR CRESNET

NETWORK DEVICES

Programming the LCD Display

LAN

DPA

24VDC FROM

ONE CNPWS-75

(OR OTHER NET-

WORK DEVICES)

NOTE: The following description assumes that the reader has some knowledge of
SIMPL Windows. If not, please refer to the extensive help information provided with
the software.

SIMPL (Symbol Intensive Master Programming Language) is an easy-to-use
programming language that is completely integrated and compatible with all
Crestron system hardware. The objects that are used in SIMPL are called symbols.
SIMPL Windows offers drag and drop functionality in a familiar Windows®
environment.

SIMPL Windows is Crestron Electronics development environment for
programming Crestron control systems. It provides a well-designed graphical

Operations Guide - DOC. 8151 CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP • 11

CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

environment with a number of workspaces (i.e., windows) in which a programmer
can select, configure, program, test, and monitor a Crestron control system.

The LCD display of the CNRACKX-DP is preprogrammed with a certain level of
diagnostic, testing, and network device information. Assuming the CNRACKX-DP
is connected to a PC running SIMPL Windows, a LCD display programming utility
(Front Panel Editor) can be accessed. This editor enables a programmer to program
multi-level pages under the PANEL (left-most, function) button on the LCD display.

Front Panel Editor

The LCD display on a CNRACKX-DP has different pages that are defined by the
programmer. Menu function buttons are assigned to different pages or objects. The
LCD display has a 2x40 character display with six-programmable buttons.

In Front Panel Editor, pages are designed and added to the panel. An example of the
default page is shown after this paragraph. Each front panel page is one display
(2x40 characters) and can have as many objects as the physical size of the display
allows (objects can not overlap). The top line of the panel is used for informative
object displays, such as headings, indirect text, bar graphs, and time and date. The
bottom line of the panel is for objects that are accessed by the six menu function
buttons below the display. These buttons only access the page or object whose field
is directly over the button. Objects added to the bottom line of the display can have
page jumps or logic programming in SIMPL Windows that cause specific events to
occur. These objects are initiated by pressing the button that is associated with it.

Default Front Panel Page

Creating a Page with Front Panel Editor

NOTE: The creation of a front panel page is discussed in this section. For more
details, consult the SIMPL Windows help file. Search for Front Panel Editor.

Assume that a page, as shown below, is required. The concept of such an application
is that the user can then choose a given device and then, from a lower-level page,
control one or more transport functions of the device.

Example of a Front Panel Page

12 • CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP Operations Guide - DOC. 8151

Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

Adding Top-Level Pages and Objects

Use SIMPL Windows and access the Front Panel Editor by selecting Project | Edit
Front Panel. Click on the Add button and enter a new name for the new page. For

this example, use Menu1 – Choose Device as the name.

Double-click inside the display area of the front panel on the screen to open the Edit
Panel Object dialog box. This example requires that headings be added to the page,
so choose Text Object from the Object Type area. In the Inactive Text field, enter
Choose Device. The object is displayed on the panel. Click on and drag the object to
its desired location on the panel, top row.

Add additional objects (VCR, LaserDisc, CD, Lights, and Volume) to the page by
double-clicking in the display area where the object is to appear. Repeat the
procedure in the previous paragraph, place objects over the appropriate button.

Adding Lower-Level Pages and Objects

Lower-level pages can be added for each of the objects on the bottom row of the
page just created. For the purposes of this example, one lower-level page is added for
the VCR object. Simply click on the Add button and enter a new name for the new
page. For this example, use Menu2 – VCR Control as the name.

Return to the Menu1 – Choose Device and double-click on the VCR object. The Edit
Panel Object dialog box opens. From the Menu Jump field, select Menu2 – VCR
Control and click OK. Select the Simulate check box to make the Front Panel Editor
simulate an actual CNRACKX-DP front panel. Click on the VCR function button to
enable the simulated page jump. The display clears, because Menu2 – VCR Control
has been named, but no objects have been added yet.

An example VCR Control page, as shown below, has a text object that appears as a
header on the top row of the display and objects that are control functions assigned to
each function button. Objects in the bottom row are shown in the inactive state (none
of the buttons are being pressed).

Example VCR Control Page

Use the Edit Panel Object dialog box to add objects to this page. Double-click on the
first object, play. From the Digital Channel field in the Edit Panel Object dialog box,
scroll down to or enter 1. In the Active Text field, enter PLAY as the button’s active
text. Therefore, when the function button associated with digital channel 1 (the VCR
button) is pressed, the active text is displayed as a visual cue that the button is
pressed. Repeat the same procedure for each of the other function buttons in the
Menu2 – VCR Control page.

NOTE: Digital channels are also referred to as join numbers. Join numbers are
numeric identifiers assigned to an object or button. It is necessary to identify objects
so the input/output signals of the SIMPL program can be named and routed properly.

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CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

Front Panel Symbol in SIMPL Windows

A powerful tool to assist programmers in naming and routing signals for the LCD
display is the Synchronize Signals command. While the panel appears on the PC
screen, select Panel | Synchronize Signal Names to automatically name all the input
and output signals for the front panel in the SIMPL Windows program. To display
the signal names, double-click on Slot-08 : CNX LCD Front Panel that is available
from the Central Control Modules Directory in the Program View of SIMPL
Windows’ Program Manager. The symbol appears in Detail View, as shown on the
next page.

Front Panel Symbol Displayed in SIMPL Windows’ Detail View of Programming Manager

Object Types

The example discussed in the previous sections utilizes only one of the object types
available from the Edit Panel Object dialog box, shown below. These object types
are not new to Crestron programmers, the same types are available in VisionTools™
Pro. For a detailed description of these types refer to the VisionTools Pro help file.
Use the glossary or search function to locate the information.

Object Type Area in the Edit Panel Object Dialog Box

Loading Crestron Control Software

Crestron control software is available in an electronic form; via CD-ROM, email, or
from Crestron’s website. Regardless of how and from where the software is
obtained, this section provides the necessary installation steps.

Before performing the following set of instructions, obtain a straight-through RS-232
cable that has a DB9 male connector on one end and a DB9 female connector on the
other. Straight-through means that pin-1 on the male end goes to pin-1 on the female
end, etc. The male end plugs into the port labeled COMPUTER on the front panel of
the CNRACKX-DP or either CNXCPU. The female end plugs into the serial port of
a PC. If the PC has a DB25 male connector, obtain a DB9 to DB25 adapter (the
adapter has a DB9 male end and a DB25 female end).

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Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

Installing Crestron Development Tools

Crestron provides software tools for programming the CNRACKX-DP. Even if only
the control software is being loaded into the hardware and there are no plans to do
any programming, some Crestron development software must be installed on the PC.
Currently, Crestron programming is accomplished with the use of the following
development tools listed in the table after this paragraph.

NOTE: If the intent is to load software developed by someone else, then install
SIMPL Windows only. Install all three applications to program systems as well.

NOTE: The latest version of these applications is available from Crestron’s website
(www.crestron.com). Crestron ControlCD also contains a version (which may not be
as current as the website version). To obtain a free copy of the CD-ROM, please call
Crestron at 1-888-CRESTRON [1-888-273-7876] or 1-201-767-3400. Alternatively,
complete a literature request from the Crestron website to obtain one.

Crestron Development Tools

DEVELOPMENT TOOL DESCRIPTION

SIMPL Windows Used to program the CNRACKX-DP.
VisionTools

DEAL for Windows Used for learning (using the optional CNXLIR) and

TM

Pro

Used to design touchpanel layouts and to program
SmarTouch Systems.

maintaining IR driver files.

To avoid any procedural errors, follow
the steps in the order provided.

Before installing any tools, confirm that all applications such as Microsoft Office,
etc. are closed. The website and CD provide instructions for installing the various
development tools. When initiating a custom install from the CD, the user is
presented with a list of the software programs, documentation, and other resources
available on the CD. For each item, set or clear a checkbox to the left of the item to
direct the installation program whether to install that component onto the hard drive.
The size of the items installed determines how much disk space is required.

Each development tool contains a help file that can be opened from the Help pull­down menu. Refer to these files for additional information.

Initial Setup

NOTE: For the Ethernet IP setup of the CNRACKX-DP with optional CNXENET+
Ethernet Expansion Cards, refer to the CNXENET+ Operations & Installation Guide
(latest revision of Doc. 8153) for further information.

After installing the desired development tool, various job files may be obtained from
Crestron or other sources. Using Windows Explorer, complete the following steps.
These steps ensure that all job files reside on the hard drive (C:) in the Directory
\CRESTRON\PROJECTS\MYJOB.

1. Navigate to the SIMPL directory on the hard drive. Assume that the
default install directory is C:\CRESTRON.

2. Create a new folder for the project files. Although the folder where the
files are placed is not critical, it is easier to manage projects if a logical
structure is created. For example, create a new folder, called
PROJECTS, underneath the CRESTRON directory. Create another

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CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

folder, called MYJOB, under PROJECTS for the current job. The
resulting pathname is C:\CRESTRON\PROJECTS\ MYJOB.

3. Copy the supplied files into the folder created in the last step. The
source of the file determines the procedure.

From a floppy disk: Most floppy disks sent from Crestron contain a

common directory structure designed to make it easier to organize files.
Copy the entire contents of the disk(s) including the directory structure.

From an EXE file: If a job is downloaded from the Crestron website

or is received via email, all files may have been compressed into a
single, self-extracting archive. This archive has an EXE extension.

First, copy the EXE file into the directory stated in step 1, then double-

click on the file name to begin decompressing the file. The program
asks for a location for the extracted files. In this case, simply browse
for the same directory where the archive was copied. (Once files are
extracted, retain the original EXE file in case files need to be restored
at any point.)

From a ZIP file: If the downloaded job is from Crestron’s website,

BBS or e-mail, all files may have been compressed into a single archive
file with a ZIP extension. If the program was created with SIMPL
Windows 1.30.01 or later, this file was created with the Copy Program
feature of SIMPL Windows, which provides the option to archive the
project to a ZIP file. An example dialog box is shown below.

Copy Program Dialog Box

4. After Begin Copy is selected, the selected files will be archived to the
example file C:\CRESTRON\SIMPL\PROGRAMS\EXAMPLE.ZIP.
For this ZIP file to be used by SIMPL Windows, select File | Import
Archived Program from the Crestron Viewport. This will present a
dialog similar to the following, after selecting the ZIP to import:

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Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

Import an Archived Program Dialog Box

The job may be copied to any folder or directory, and the User IR, Macro, and
SIMPL+ files will be copied to the proper directories. If a version of SIMPL
Windows lower than 1.30.01 is being used, copy the ZIP file into the job directory
stated in step 1, then extract the files with a program called WinZip. Obtain a copy of
this program from their website (www.winzip.com
into the same directory where the archive was copied. Once files are extracted, retain
the original ZIP file in case the files need to be restored at any point. The User IR,
Macro, and SIMPL+ modules will need to be copied to their proper directories
manually.

) on the internet. Extract the files

File Types

There are quite a few file types involved with Crestron control software. This section
explains the different types that might be encountered in each directory. In many
cases, the supplied software is grouped into a number of subdirectories. The intent is
to keep files organized. For example, after copying the files to the hard disk, the
directory structure may appear as shown below.

Possible Directory Structure

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CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

Ops Subdirectory - The files in this subdirectory contain the CNRACKX-DP
operating system with which the program was tested. Ensure that the operating
system version currently loaded is equal to or newer than the version included here,
so that the program runs properly. For help with uploading an operating system, refer
to “Updating the Control System” on page 29.

File Types in Ops Subdirectory

FILE TYPE DESCRIPTION

.upz

Programs Subdirectory - The files in this subdirectory (shown on the next page)
contain the system program. This is the main program that loads into the
CNRACKX-DP and determines the exact functionality of the system.

File Types in Programs Subdirectory

FILE TYPE DESCRIPTION

.asv SIMPL Windows auto-save file.

.bin This is the executable code for the CNRACKX-DP.

.dip

.sig

.sm2 SIMPL Windows program backup file.

.smp

.smw

This is a control system file. For more information regarding these
files, refer to "Upgrading the Control System".

This is the default IP Table that contains the IP addresses of all of the
ethernet devices in the system. It is generated when the program is
compiled and the CNRACKX-DP contains optional CNXENET+
expansion cards and ethernet devices.
This file contains information required by Test Manager (see SIMPL
Windows help for more information) for debugging programs in real­time. It is generated each time the program is compiled.

This is the SIMPL-C file that is generated from the SMW file when a
program is compiled. In SIMPL Windows version 1.18 or lower, this
file is what actually gets compiled into the BIN file. In versions after

1.18, this file may or may not be generated and is not required.
This is the SIMPL Windows program file. It contains the source code
for the main system program.

Userdb Subdirectory - The files in this subdirectory are user database infrared (IR)
drivers, which are needed to interface with certain IR-controlled devices in the
system. These differ from Crestron database IR drivers in that the former are
included as part of a Crestron Database release.

File Types in Userdb Subdirectory

FILE TYPE DESCRIPTION

This is a user IR driver file. It is needed during the convert/compile
process in order to properly compile the program. If recompilation of
the program is necessary, use the Import Program option or copy any

.ir

IR files received into the default user database directory (see SIMPL
Windows help for more information). Alternatively, set the SIMPL
Windows userdb directory to the directory where the macros exist. In
SIMPL Windows, this is accomplished from the Directories tab by
selecting

Edit

|

Preferences

.

Usrmacro Subdirectory - The files in this subdirectory are user macros, or special
sub-programs that are integral parts of the main program. These differ from Crestron
macros in that the former are supplied as part of the development software.

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Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

p

p

File Types in Usrmacro Subdirectory

FILE TYPE DESCRIPTION

.um2 This is the user macro backup file.

This is a user macro file. It is needed during the convert/compile
process in order to properly compile the program. To recompile the
program, use the Import Program option or copy any UMC files

.umc

UsrSPlus Subdirectory - The files in this subdirectory (shown on the next page)
contain the User SIMPL+ modules used in this system. To recompile the program,
use the Import Program option or copy the USP and USH files received into the
default user SIMPL+ directory. Alternatively, set the SIMPL windows user SIMPL+
directory to the directory where the USP and USH files exist.

File Types in UsrSPlus Subdirectory

FILE TYPE DESCRIPTION

.csz

.uf

.usp

.ush

received into the default user macro directory (see SIMPL Windows
help for more information). Alternatively, set the SIMPL Windows
usermacro directory to the directory where the macros exist. In SIMPL
Windows, this is accomplished from the Directories tab by selecting

|

Edit

Preferences

Crestron SIMPL+ archive. This archive contains all of the SIMPL+
executable code (from both user modules and crestron modules) that
the Transfer Program dialog will send to the CNRACKX-DP.
User SIMPL+ compiled file. This contains the executable SIMPL+
code for the CNRACKX-DP.
User SIMPL+ source code module. This file gets compiled by the
SIMPL+ environment and also is editable by the user.
User SIMPL+ header file. This file details how SIMPL Windows should
model the gate as a symbol (i.e. how many inputs, outputs, etc.).

.

Touchpanel Directory - The files in this subdirectory contain touchpanel projects
(for example, Vt3501 and Vt3502 in the previous illustration titled Possible
Subdirectory Structure). Each project describes the exact graphical nature of the
panel to which it uploads.

File Types in Touchpanel Subdirectory

FILE TYPE DESCRIPTION

.bmp, .pcx,

or .dib

.hex

.lgc

.vti and .vtl

.vtp

These are graphic files that are needed by VTW for recompiling
touch

anel projects.

This is the compiled touchpanel project file. This file is uploaded to the

anel itself.

Logic files for existing SmarTouch products, like ST-1500/1500C, that
use VTW.

Logic files for existing SmarTouch products, like ST-1500/1500C or
ST-1550/1550C that use VTPro.

This is the only VisionTools Pro (VTPro) file required for a given
project. It replaces the PRJ, PGF, and graphic (BMP, PCX, etc.) files
that were part of VisionTools for Windows (VTW) projects.

NOTE: In this example, the Vt3501 and Vt3502directories represent two
touchpanels that are part of the entire remote control system. Consult the connection
sheets or other supplied information to determine which directory corresponds to a
given touchpanel.

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CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

Obtaining Communications

NOTE: In order for the CNRACKX-DP to be fail-safe operational, communication
must be obtained with both CNXCPUs. The following procedure must be performed
on the currently active processor, the processors must be electronically switched, and
the procedure repeated for the other processor. To switch processors from the
Viewport, select Diagnostics | Switch Processors (CNRACKX-DP). To switch
processors from the front panel default LCD display, press the DP button then CPU
and the CNRACKX-DP will reset and make the other CNXCPU active.

NOTE: If optional CNXENET+ Ethernet Expansion Cards are installed into the
CNXCPUs, communications can be obtained with the CNRACKX-DP over TCP/IP.
The CNXENET+ Operations & Installation Guide explains how to load the required
IP Table that contains the addresses of the Ethernet devices and set up the control
system for Ethernet communications. Refer to the CNXENET+ Operations &
Installation Guide (latest revision of Doc. 8153) for further information.

Before attempting to upload the program files into the CNRACKX-DP, it is
necessary to first establish communication between the CNRACKX-DP and a PC.
There are two ways of communicating with the CNRACKX-DP, either via the
COMPUTER port (RS-232 serial communications) or via Ethernet if optional
CNXENET+ Ethernet Expansion Cards are installed into the CNXCPUs. Prior to
completing the following steps, be sure the communication cable is properly
connected as described in “Loading Crestron Control Software” on page 14.

1. Make sure that no programs accessing the COM port of the PC are
running.

2. Select Start | Programs | Crestron | SIMPL Windows to start SIMPL
Windows.

3. SIMPL Windows responds with an opening splash screen and may
display the “What do you want to do?” dialog box. If so, close the
dialog box.

4. As illustrated below, select Tools | Viewport to open the Crestron
Viewport dialog box.

Accessing the Viewport

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Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

5. From the Setup menu, verify that Auto Baud Search is checked. Refer

to illustration below.

Verifying Auto Baud Search

6. While the Viewport is displayed, select Setup | Communications

(alternatively, depress Alt+D) to open the Port Settings dialog box and
refer to the illustration below.

Accessing the Port Settings Dialog Box

7. Select the appropriate connection type (RS-232 for a PC connection

through the COMPUTER port of the CNRACKX-DP or CNXCPU or
TCP/IP through the Ethernet via optional LAN/DPA ports). Verify that
the proper COM port is selected. Set the baud rate to 38400, the parity
to None, the data bits to Eight, and the stop bits to One. Refer to the
dialog box shown below for the remaining settings. Click on the OK
button to save the settings and close the dialog box.

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CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

Port Settings Dialog Box

8. Select Diagnostics | Check Operating System Version (alternatively,
depress F5) from the Viewport. The Viewport may display a window
as it scans various baud rates. Eventually, a message should appear in
the Incoming section showing a version number. Such a response
indicates that communications have been established. If a No
Communications with Rack error message opens, proceed to

“Troubleshooting Communications” below. If the baud rate of the

CNRACKX-DP was something other than 38400, the software
automatically adjusts the baud rate to 38400.

9. If communications have not been obtained with both processors, refer
to the first note at the beginning of this procedure, electronically switch
active processors, and repeat this procedure.

Troubleshooting Communications

NOTE: In order for the CNRACKX-DP to be fail-safe operational, communication
must be established with both CNXCPUs. Make sure that the processor that has not
established communications is the active processor. To switch processors from the
Viewport, select Diagnostics | Switch Processors (CNRACKX-DP). To switch
processors from the front panel default LCD display, press the DP button then CPU
and the CNRACKX-DP will reset and make the other CNXCPU active.

NOTE: This section covers troubleshooting communications of the CNRACKX-DP
via RS-232 to the COMPUTER port. For troubleshooting Ethernet communications
of the CNRACKX-DP with optional CNXENET+ Ethernet Expansion Card, refer to
the CNXENET+ Operations & Installation Guide (latest revision of Doc. 8153) for
further information.

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Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

If communications with the CNRACKX-DP was not established, follow the steps in
this section to help remedy the problem. After performing each step, repeat step 7 in

“Obtaining Communications” on page 20 again.

1. Try repeating step 7 from “Obtaining Communications” to attempt to

establish communications.

2. Verify that the cable being used is correct. It should be a straight-

through cable. That is, pin-1 on one end is connected to pin-1 on the
other end. Pin-2 connects to pin-2, etc. To work properly, pins-2, 3, and
5 must be connected.

3. Verify that the proper COM port on the PC has been selected. Some

PCs have more than one COM port, some of which may be internal
(e.g., for a modem). If verification can not be made, consult the user’s
manual or contact the PC manufacturer.

4. Check the NET and ERR LEDs on the front of the CNRACKX-DP. If

either LED is illuminated, unplug the unit and reapply power after a
few seconds. If either LED illuminates again, call Crestron technical
support. Refer to “Further Inquiries” on page 33.

5. If steps 1 through 4 have failed to result in communications, the last

series of steps to perform is an overload/reset on the active processor.
Complete the following steps to do so:

5a. While the Viewport is displayed as shown on the next page, select

Functions | Set Baud Rate (alternatively, depress F8) to open the
Set Baud Rate dialog box.

Accessing the Set Baud Rate Dialog Box

5b. Set the baud rate to 9600, as shown below.

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CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

Setting the Baud Rate

5c. Set the CNRACKX-DP to 9600 baud.

- Depress and hold the SW-R button on the CNRACKX-DP front

panel.

- Depress and release the HW-R button on the CNRACKX-DP front

panel.

- Wait until a message similar to the one below appears in the

Viewport.

Viewport Message

CNRACKX Monitor v5.07.00 * 07/14/99 - interupt serial i/o
512k flash memory, 512k NVRAM, segment =FA00
Press <esc> now to enter debug monitor

NOTE: If a PC is not hooked up, wait approximately three to four seconds.

- Release the SW-R button.

5d. If the CNRACKX-DP responds, proceed to step 5e. Otherwise, do the

following.

- Remove power from the CNRACKX-DP.

- Depress and hold the SW-R button on the CNRACKX-DP front

panel.

- Reapply power to the CNRACKX-DP.

- Wait until a message similar to the Viewport message on the

previous page appears.

NOTE: If a PC is not hooked up, wait approximately three to four seconds.

- Release the SW-R button.

5e. Text messages, as shown below, should appear on the Incoming

Window of the Viewport. If messages do not appear or they are
illegible, verify that the Viewport is set to 9600 baud and repeat steps
5a through 5d. If data similar to that shown below appears, perform
steps 7 through 11 in “Obtaining Communications” on page 20 before
proceeding to the next step.

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Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

Crestron Viewport Outgoing and Incoming Windows

NOTE: The exact text received depends on the given CNRACKX-DP hardware.

5f. Remove power from the unit again and reapply power without holding

the RESET button down. Wait a few seconds and perform step 7 in

“Obtaining Communications” on page 20.

NOTE: If after trying all these procedures, communication can not be established,
contact Crestron technical support for assistance. Refer to “Further Inquiries” on
page 33.

Loading the System Program

NOTE: In order for the CNRACKX-DP to be fail-safe operational, both CNXCPUs
must contain identical SIMPL Windows programs. The following procedure must be
performed on the currently active processor, the processors must be electronically
switched, and the procedure repeated for the other processor. To switch processors
from the Viewport, select Diagnostics | Switch Processors (CNRACKX-DP). To
switch processors from the front panel default LCD display, press the DP button then
CPU and the CNRACKX-DP will reset and make the other CNXCPU active.

To load the system program into the CNRACKX-DP, use the Crestron Viewport or
the Transfer Program option in SIMPL Windows. For consistency, the following
procedure uses the Viewport. To upload a BIN file into the CNRACKX-DP,
complete the following steps in the order provided:

1. If the Crestron Viewport is not open, select Tools | Viewport to open

the Viewport dialog box.

2. Select File Transfer | Send Program (alternatively, depress Alt+P) to

open the Cresnet Simpl Program dialog box.

3. Use the Browse button to locate the supplied BIN file.

4. As shown below, click the Send Program button to initiate program

upload to the CNRACKX-DP. A Transfer in Progress dialog box
opens, but no response is required. If SIMPL+ files are present and the

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CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

SIMPL+ Program(s) option is checked in the “What to Send” field, the
associated files will be transferred after the program is transferred.

Cresnet Simpl Program Dialog Box

NOTE: The permanent memory image is the program stored into flash memory.
From the image, the program can be recalled automatically if power to the unit is lost
or interrupted. Permanent memory can be overwritten as many times as needed.

5. When a Query dialog box opens to create the permanent memory
image, click Yes. A Success dialog box opens when the permanent
memory image is complete. If the Failure dialog box opens, repeat
steps 3 and 4. If this does not remedy the problem, call Crestron
technical support. Refer to “Further Inquiries” on page 33.

NOTE: Not normally required, the Make Permanent button also creates a
permanent memory image.

6. After transferring the program file, click on the Check Program button
to ensure that the file loaded properly. The information in the Current
Program field of the Cresnet Simpl Program dialog box should update
and display the file currently loaded. If the information does not update,
repeat steps 3 through 5. If this does not remedy the problem, call
Crestron technical support. Refer to “Further Inquiries” on page 33.

7. If the system program has not been loaded into both processors, refer to
the first note at the beginning of this procedure, electronically switch
active processors, and repeat this procedure.

Copying NVRAM

The NVRAM (non-volatile random access memory) retains specified system startup
information. Examples are lighting brightness, audio and video equipment turn-on,
or audio startup volume (independent of a CNX-PAD8 program).

NOTE: In order for the CNRACKX-DP to be fail-safe operational, the NVRAM
must be identical in both CNXCPUs.

To copy NVRAM from one CNXCPU to the other, complete the following steps:

1. Select Tools | Viewport to open the Crestron Viewport dialog box.

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2. From the File Transfer menu, select Save NVRAM to file as shown

below.

Save NVRAM to File

3. Browse to the directory where the file will be written, name the file,

and click the Save button as shown below.

Name and Save NVRAM File

4. Observe the Transfer in Progress dialog box while the NVRAM file is

saved in the selected directory.

5. Electronically switch active processors. To switch processors from the

Viewport, select Diagnostics | Switch Processors (CNRACKX-DP).
To switch processors from the front panel default LCD display, press
the DP button then CPU.

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CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

6. From the Viewport File Transfer menu, select Load NVRAM from
file as shown below.

Load NVRAM from File

7. Browse to the directory where the file is saved and (the NVRAM file
has a NVR extension) open the file as shown below.

Open NVRAM File

8. Observe the Transfer in Progress dialog box as the NVRAM file is
transferred to the active processor.

Testing the Permanent Memory Image

NOTE: In order for the CNRACKX-DP to be fail-safe operational, the permanent
memory image must be tested in both CNXCPUs. The following procedure must be
performed on the currently active processor, the processors must be electronically

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switched, and the procedure repeated for the other processor. To switch processors
from the Viewport, select Diagnostics | Switch Processors (CNRACKX-DP). To
switch processors from the front panel default LCD display, press the DP button then
CPU and the CNRACKX-DP will reset and make the other CNXCPU active.

To test the permanent memory image, complete the following steps:

1. Select Tools | Viewport to open the Crestron Viewport dialog box.

2. Unplug the CNRACKX-DP and leave it unplugged for about 10

seconds.

3. Plug the unit in and observe the statistics displayed in the Viewport

display field. The program name uploaded into the system also appears.

4. Verify the displayed information against what was originally loaded

when the unit was shipped.

5. If the permanent memory image has not been tested in both processors,

refer to the note at the beginning of this procedure, electronically
switch active processors, and repeat this procedure.

Loading Touchpanels

The CNRACKX-DP may include one or more touchpanels. Each panel must be set
to the proper network ID and loaded with a touchpanel project in order to work
properly in conjunction with the system program loaded in “Loading the System

Program” on page 25. For each panel in the system, a separate HEX file describing

the graphical elements of the panel is required. In some cases, where two or more
panels are to be identical in usage, a single HEX file may be used for multiple
panels. To load a touchpanel project into the panel, use the Crestron Viewport or the
Upload Project function in VisionTools Pro. For consistency, the steps that follow
this paragraph are using the Viewport. To upload a HEX file into the touchpanel,
complete the following steps in the order provided:

1. Verify that the touchpanel is connected to the CNRACKX-DP via the

appropriate network cable. Also, verify that the touchpanel is set to the
proper network ID. (This info should be available in the system
connection sheets or directly from the programmer.)

2. Select Tools | Viewport to open the Crestron Viewport dialog box, if it

is not already opened.

3. Select Diagnostics | Report Network Devices (alternatively, depress

F4) and verify that the touchpanel to be loaded reports back and is at
the expected network ID.

4. Select File Transfer | Send Touchpanel (alternatively, depress Alt+T)

and set the network ID to the ID of the touchpanel to be loaded.

5. Browse for the supplied HEX file and click the Open button. The file is

sent to the CNRACKX-DP and then over the network to the
touchpanel. Verify that the panel displays a message saying that the
upload is in progress.

Updating the Control System

NOTE: In order for the CNRACKX-DP to be fail-safe operational, the control
system of both CNXCPUs must be updated identically. The following procedure
must be performed on the currently active processor, the processors must be

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CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

electronically switched, and the procedure repeated for the other processor. To
switch processors from the Viewport, select Diagnostics | Switch Processors
(CNRACKX-DP). To switch processors from the front panel default LCD display,
press the DP button then CPU and the CNRACKX-DP will reset and make the other
CNXCPU active.

The CNRACKX-DP contains an Operating System, a Monitor ROM, and when
optional CNXENET+ Ethernet Expansion Cards are installed in the CNXCPUs, a
TCP/IP Stack. Although each are separate components, they are packaged together in
a Control System Update File. Control system update files have the UPZ extension.
It is often necessary to update a control system if new features have been
implemented (such as support for new hardware or new language constructs) or if
bugs have been corrected. The following procedure is recommended to load a new
UPZ file into the CNRACKX-DP:

NOTE: UPZ files only pertain to X generation control systems and are not used for
older models such as the CNRACK, CNMS, CNLCOMP-232, or ST-CP. Consult the
appropriate documentation for each of these products to perform updates.

1. Establish communications with the CNRACKX-DP by following the
steps listed in “Obtaining Communications” on page 20.

2. From the Crestron Viewport, select File Transfer | Update Control
System as shown below.

Accessing the Update Control System Dialog Box

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Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

3. The Update Control System dialog box, shown below, offers the option

to enter the path name of a new update file. If the path name is not
known, use the Browse button to navigate to a list of available update
files. When browsing, choose only update files with a UPZ extension.

Update Control System Dialog Box

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CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

4. After a file is selected, the Update Control System dialog box, as
shown below, will query the CNRACKX-DP to determine what
versions of the Operating system, Monitor ROM, and TCP/IP Stack are
currently running.

Example Update Control System Dialog Box

Continue with transfer? Selection Box

5. If the CNRACKX-DP does not have optional CNXENET+ Ethernet
Expansion Cards, uncheck the TCP/IP Stack option to transfer faster
(transferring the stack will not cause any problems). Otherwise, send all
of the checked components. To start the transfer, click the Send button.
The transfer dialog will inform you of the progress in updating the
selected components.

6. As a result of the update, a dialog box similar to below may open and
the SIMPL program (and possibly SIMPL+ modules) must be cleared.

7. Upload the SIMPL program and SIMPL+ modules after the transfer is
complete.

8. If both processors have not been updated, refer to the note at the
beginning of this procedure, electronically switch active processors,
and repeat this procedure.

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Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

Problem Solving

Troubleshooting

The table following this paragraph provides corrective action for possible trouble
situations. If further assistance is required, please contact a Crestron technical
support representative.

CNRACKX-DP Troubleshooting

TROUBLE

Unexpected
response from
CNRACKX-DP.

Green PWR
indicator (on
CNXRACK-DP or
either CNXCPU)
does not
illuminate.
Yellow NET
indicator (on
CNXRACK-DP or
either CNXCPU)
does not
illuminate.

Red ERR
indicator
illuminates.

POSSIBLE
CAUSE(S)

Network devices
are not communi­cating with the
CNRACKX-DP.
CNRACKX-DP is
not receiving
power.

Loose network
connection.
SIMPL Windows
program is not
loaded properly.
SIMPL Windows
program error.
Hardware or
software failure,
hardware incom­patibility with soft­ware definitions,
or programming
error.

CORRECTIVE ACTION

From the Crestron Viewport, poll the network
(F4) to verify communication.

Verify that power supply is properly attached to
CNRACKX-DP and the other end is securely
plugged into an outlet.

Verify that Cresnet cables plugged into
CNXCPU and all expansion cards are secure.
Depress the SW-R button to restart the SIMPL
Windows program.

Verify the SIMPL Windows program.

Verify that hardware configuration matches
software configuration (i.e., card is in proper
slot as defined by program). Poll the network
(F4) via the Crestron Viewport.

Further Inquiries

If after reviewing this Operations Guide, you cannot locate specific information or
have questions, please take advantage of Crestron's award winning technical support
team by calling:

• In the US and Canada, call Crestron’s corporate headquarters at

1-888-CRESTRON [1-888-273-7876] or 1-201-767-3400.

• In Europe, call Crestron International at [phone].

• In Asia, call Crestron Asia at [phone].

• In Latin America, call Crestron Latin America at [phone].

• In Australia, call Crestron Pacific at [phone].

For local support from exclusive Crestron factory-trained personnel in New Zealand
call Amber Technologies at [phone].

Operations Guide - DOC. 8151 CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP • 33

CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

Software License Agreement

This License Agreement (“Agreement”) is a legal contract between you (either an individual or a single business entity) and
Crestron Electronics, Inc. (“Crestron”) for software referenced in this guide, which includes computer software and, as applicable,
associated media, printed materials, and “online” or electronic documentation (the “Software”).

BY INSTALLING, COPYING, OR OTHERWISE USING THE SOFTWARE, YOU REPRESENT THAT YOU ARE AN
AUTHORIZED DEALER OF CRESTRON PRODUCTS OR A CRESTRON AUTHORIZED INDEPENDENT PROGRAMMER
AND YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THE TERMS OF
THIS AGREEMENT, DO NOT INSTALL OR USE THE SOFTWARE.

IF YOU HAVE PAID A FEE FOR THIS LICENSE AND DO NOT ACCEPT THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT,
CRESTRON WILL REFUND THE FEE TO YOU PROVIDED YOU (1) CLICK THE DO NOT ACCEPT BUTTON, (2) DO NOT
INSTALL THE SOFTWARE AND (3) RETURN ALL SOFTWARE, MEDIA AND OTHER DOCUMENTATION AND
MATERIALS PROVIDED WITH THE SOFTWARE TO CRESTRON AT: CRESTRON ELECTRONICS, INC., 15 VOLVO
DRIVE, ROCKLEIGH, NEW JERSEY 07647, WITHIN 30 DAYS OF PAYMENT.

LICENSE TERMS

Crestron hereby grants You and You accept a nonexclusive, nontransferable license to use the Software (a) in machine
readable object code together with the related explanatory written materials provided by Creston (b) on a central processing unit
(“CPU”) owned or leased or otherwise controlled exclusively by You, and (c) only as authorized in this Agreement and the related
explanatory files and written materials provided by Crestron.

If this software requires payment for a license, you may make one backup copy of the Software, provided Your backup copy
is not installed or used on any CPU. You may not transfer the rights of this Agreement to a backup copy unless the installed copy of
the Software is destroyed or otherwise inoperable and You transfer all rights in the Software.

You may not transfer the license granted pursuant to this Agreement or assign this Agreement without the express written
consent of Crestron.

If this software requires payment for a license, the total number of CPU’s on which all versions of the Software are installed
may not exceed one per license fee (1) and no concurrent, server or network use of the Software (including any permitted back-up
copies) is permitted, including but not limited to using the Software (a) either directly or through commands, data or instructions from
or to another computer (b) for local, campus or wide area network, internet or web hosting services; or (c) pursuant to any rental,
sharing or “service bureau” arrangement.

The Software is designed as a software development and customization tool. As such Crestron cannot and does not
guarantee any results of use of the Software or that the Software will operate error free and You acknowledge that any development
that You perform using the Software or Host Application is done entirely at Your own risk.

The Software is licensed and not sold. Crestron retains ownership of the Software and all copies of the Software and
reserves all rights not expressly granted in writing.

OTHER LIMITATIONS

You must be an Authorized Dealer of Crestron products or a Crestron Authorized Independent Programmer to install or use
the Software. If Your status as a Crestron Authorized Dealer or Crestron Authorized Independent Programmer is terminated, Your
license is also terminated.

You may not rent, lease, lend, sublicense, distribute or otherwise transfer or assign any interest in or to the Software.

You may not reverse engineer, decompile, or disassemble the Software.

You agree that the Software will not be shipped, transferred or exported into any country or used in any manner prohibited
by the United States Export Administration Act or any other export laws, restrictions or regulations (“Export Laws”). By downloading
or installing the Software You (a) are certifying that You are not a national of Cuba, Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Sudan, or Syria or
any country to which the United States embargoes goods (b) are certifying that You are not otherwise prohibited from receiving the
Software and (c) You agree to comply with the Export Laws.

If any part of this Agreement is found void and unenforceable, it will not affect the validity of the balance of the Agreement,
which shall remain valid and enforceable according to its terms. This Agreement may only be modified by a writing signed by an
authorized officer of Crestron. Updates may be licensed to You by Crestron with additional or different terms. This is the entire
agreement between Crestron and You relating to the Software and it supersedes any prior representations, discussions, undertakings,
communications or advertising relating to the Software. The failure of either party to enforce any right or take any action in the event
of a breach hereunder shall constitute a waiver unless expressly acknowledged and set forth in writing by the party alleged to have
provided such waiver.

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Crestron CNRACKX-DP CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System

If You are a business or organization, You agree that upon request from Crestron or its authorized agent, You will within
thirty (30) days fully document and certify that use of any and all Software at the time of the request is in conformity with Your valid
licenses from Crestron of its authorized agent.

Without prejudice to any other rights, Crestron may terminate this Agreement immediately upon notice if you fail to comply
with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. In such event, you must destroy all copies of the Software and all of its component
parts.

PROPRIETARY RIGHTS

Copyright. All title and copyrights in and to the Software (including, without limitation, any images, photographs,
animations, video, audio, music, text, and “applets” incorporated into the Software), the accompanying media and printed materials,
and any copies of the Software are owned by Crestron or its suppliers. The Software is protected by copyright laws and international
treaty provisions. Therefore, you must treat the Software like any other copyrighted material, subject to the provisions of this
Agreement.

Submissions. Should you decide to transmit to Crestron’s website by any means or by any media any materials or other
information (including, without limitation, ideas, concepts or techniques for new or improved services and products), whether as
information, feedback, data, questions, comments, suggestions or the like, you agree such submissions are unrestricted and shall be
deemed non-confidential and you automatically grant Crestron and its assigns a non-exclusive, royalty-tree, worldwide, perpetual,
irrevocable license, with the right to sublicense, to use, copy, transmit, distribute, create derivative works of, display and perform the
same.

Trademarks. CRESTRON and the Swirl Logo are registered trademarks of Crestron Electronics, Inc. You shall not remove
or conceal any trademark or proprietary notice of Crestron from the Software including any back-up copy.

GOVERNING LAW

This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of New Jersey, without regard to conflicts of laws principles.
Any disputes between the parties to the Agreement shall be brought in the state courts in Bergen County, New Jersey or the federal
courts located in the District of New Jersey. The United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods, shall
not apply to this Agreement.

CRESTRON LIMITED WARRANTY

CRESTRON warrants that: (a) the Software will perform substantially in accordance with the published specifications for a
period of ninety (90) days from the date of receipt, and (b) that any hardware accompanying the Software will be subject to its own
limited warranty as stated in its accompanying written material. Crestron shall, at its option, repair or replace or refund the license fee
for any Software found defective by Crestron if notified by you within the warranty period. The foregoing remedy shall be your
exclusive remedy for any claim or loss arising from the Software.

CRESTRON shall not be liable to honor warranty terms if the product has been used in any application other than that for
which it was intended, or if it as been subjected to misuse, accidental damage, modification, or improper installation procedures.
Furthermore, this warranty does not cover any product that has had the serial number or license code altered, defaced, improperly
obtained, or removed.

Notwithstanding any agreement to maintain or correct errors or defects Crestron, shall have no obligation to service or
correct any error or defect that is not reproducible by Crestron or is deemed in Crestron’s reasonable discretion to have resulted from
(1) accident; unusual stress; neglect; misuse; failure of electric power, operation of the Software with other media not meeting or not
maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications; or causes other than ordinary use; (2) improper installation by
anyone other than Crestron or its authorized agents of the Software that deviates from any operating procedures established by
Crestron in the material and files provided to You by Crestron or its authorized agent; (3) use of the Software on unauthorized
hardware; or (4) modification of, alteration of, or additions to the Software undertaken by persons other than Crestron or Crestron’s
authorized agents.

ANY LIABILITY OF CRESTRON FOR A DEFECTIVE COPY OF THE SOFTWARE WILL BE LIMITED
EXCLUSIVELY TO REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF YOUR COPY OF THE SOFTWARE WITH ANOTHER COPY OR
REFUND OF THE INITIAL LICENSE FEE CRESTRON RECEIVED FROM YOU FOR THE DEFECTIVE COPY OF THE
PRODUCT. THIS WARRANTY SHALL BE THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY TO YOU. IN NO EVENT SHALL
CRESTRON BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OF ANY KIND
(PROPERTY OR ECONOMIC DAMAGES INCLUSIVE), EVEN IF A CRESTRON REPRESENTATIVE HAS BEEN ADVISED
OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES OR OF ANY CLAIM BY ANY THIRD PARTY. CRESTRON MAKES NO
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS TO TITLE OR INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD-PARTY RIGHTS,
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR ANY OTHER WARRANTIES, NOR
AUTHORIZES ANY OTHER PARTY TO OFFER ANY WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY FOR THIS PRODUCT. THIS WARRANTY STATEMENT SUPERSEDES ALL PREVIOUS
WARRANTIES.

Operations Guide - DOC. 8151 CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System: CNRACKX-DP • 35

CNX Dual Processor Modular Control System Crestron CNRACKX-DP

Return and Warranty Policies

Merchandise Returns / Repair Service

1. No merchandise may be returned for credit, exchange, or service without prior authorization
from CRESTRON. To obtain warranty service for CRESTRON products, contact the factory
and request an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) number. Enclose a note specifying
the nature of the problem, name and phone number of contact person, RMA number, and
return address.

2. Products may be returned for credit, exchange, or service with a CRESTRON Return
Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Authorized returns must be shipped freight
prepaid to CRESTRON, Cresskill, N.J., or its authorized subsidiaries, with RMA number
clearly marked on the outside of all cartons. Shipments arriving freight collect or without an
RMA number shall be subject to refusal. CRESTRON reserves the right in its sole and
absolute discretion to charge a 15% restocking fee, plus shipping costs, on any products
returned with an RMA.

3. Return freight charges following repair of items under warranty shall be paid by CRESTRON,
shipping by standard ground carrier. In the event repairs are found to be non-warranty, return
freight costs shall be paid by the purchaser.

CRESTRON Limited Warranty

CRESTRON ELECTRONICS, Inc. warrants its products to be free from manufacturing defects in
materials and workmanship under normal use for a period of three (3) years from the date of
purchase from CRESTRON, with the following exceptions: disk drives and any other moving or
rotating mechanical parts, pan/tilt heads and power supplies are covered for a period of one (1)
year; touchscreen display and overlay components are covered for 90 days; batteries and
incandescent lamps are not covered.

This warranty extends to products purchased directly from CRESTRON or an authorized
CRESTRON dealer. Purchasers should inquire of the dealer regarding the nature and extent of the
dealer's warranty, if any.

CRESTRON shall not be liable to honor the terms of this warranty if the product has been used in
any application other than that for which it was intended, or if it has been subjected to misuse,
accidental damage, modification, or improper installation procedures. Furthermore, this warranty
does not cover any product that has had the serial number altered, defaced, or removed.

This warranty shall be the sole and exclusive remedy to the original purchaser. In no event shall
CRESTRON be liable for incidental or consequential damages of any kind (property or economic
damages inclusive) arising from the sale or use of this equipment. CRESTRON is not liable for
any claim made by a third party or made by the purchaser for a third party.

CRESTRON shall, at its option, repair or replace any product found defective, without charge for
parts or labor. Repaired or replaced equipment and parts supplied under this warranty shall be
covered only by the unexpired portion of the warranty.

Except as expressly set forth in this warranty, CRESTRON makes no other warranties, expressed
or implied, nor authorizes any other party to offer any other party to offer any warranty, including
any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Any implied
warranties that may be imposed by law are limited to the terms of this limited warranty. This
warranty statement supercedes all previous warranties.

Trademark Information

All brand names, product names, and trademarks are the sole property of their respective owners. Windows is a registered
trademark of Microsoft Corporation. Windows95/98/Me/XP and WindowsNT/2000 are trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation

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