Crestron SIMPL Windows User Manual
Crestron SIMPL Windows
Primer
This document was prepared and written by the Technical Documentation department at:
Crestron Electronics, Inc.
15 Volvo Drive
Rockleigh, NJ 07647
1-888-CRESTRON
All brand names, product names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
© 2003 Crestron Electronics, Inc.
Crestron SIMPL Windows Software
Contents
CRESTRON SIMPL WINDOWS.................................................................................. 1
Overview................................................................................................................................... 1
About this Primer.......................................................................................................................1
Crestron Development Software ............................................................................................2
SIMPL Windows .......................................................................................................................2
Crestron VisionTools® Pro-e ....................................................................................................2
DEAL™ for Windows...............................................................................................................2
Media Manager™ System Builder™.........................................................................................3
D3 Pro™....................................................................................................................................3
Databases...................................................................................................................................3
Product Catalog CD...................................................................................................................3
Crestron Control Systems.......................................................................................................5
Why Program Control Systems?................................................................................................5
Elements of a Control System ...................................................................................................5
Main Processor ..........................................................................................................................5
Network Control Modules .........................................................................................................6
Plug-in Control Cards................................................................................................................6
User Interfaces...........................................................................................................................6
User devices...............................................................................................................................7
Control Methods ...................................................................................................................... 7
Relay closures............................................................................................................................7
Serial Communications..............................................................................................................8
IR (Infrared)...............................................................................................................................8
Custom Serial ..........................................................................................................................10
RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485..................................................................................................10
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) ..........................................................................11
Analog Voltages ......................................................................................................................12
Custom Crestron Interfaces .....................................................................................................12
Cresnet.....................................................................................................................................12
SIMPL WINDOWS PROGRAMMING........................................................................ 15
Introduction to SIMPL..........................................................................................................15
Symbol Categories...................................................................................................................15
Device Symbols.......................................................................................................................15
Logic Symbols.........................................................................................................................16
Symbol Properties....................................................................................................................16
Inputs .......................................................................................................................................16
Outputs.....................................................................................................................................16
Parameters ...............................................................................................................................16
Signal Types ............................................................................................................................17
Digital Signals .........................................................................................................................18
Analog Signals.........................................................................................................................18
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Serial Signals ...........................................................................................................................18
Special Signals ‘0’ and ‘1’.......................................................................................................19
Logic Waves and Logic Solutions ........................................................................................... 19
Programming with User Interfaces...................................................................................... 20
Button Presses..........................................................................................................................20
Button Feedback ......................................................................................................................21
Subpages (touchpanels only) ...................................................................................................22
Analog displays (touchpanels only).........................................................................................23
Indirect text (touchpanels only) ...............................................................................................23
Building a Program with SIMPL Windows ........................................................................24
Programming Process ..............................................................................................................24
Basic Programming Rules .......................................................................................................24
Build a System......................................................................................................................... 24
Control Systems.......................................................................................................................26
Network Hardware...................................................................................................................27
Plug-in Control Cards..............................................................................................................28
Serial Devices .......................................................................................................................... 29
User Devices............................................................................................................................ 29
Network IDs ............................................................................................................................30
Configure Devices ...................................................................................................................30
Cresnet Devices .......................................................................................................................30
Ethernet Devices......................................................................................................................32
Serial Devices .......................................................................................................................... 33
Touchpanels............................................................................................................................. 33
Connecting Signals ..................................................................................................................34
Define Signals from User Interface .........................................................................................34
Using Logic Symbols ..............................................................................................................36
PROGRAMMING WITH LOGIC SYMBOLS ............................................................. 37
Introduction ...........................................................................................................................37
Types of Logic Symbols......................................................................................................... 37
Basic Logic..............................................................................................................................38
NOT Symbol............................................................................................................................38
NOT Symbol Example: Automatic Camera Control...............................................................39
OR Symbol ..............................................................................................................................39
OR Symbol Example: Volume Un-mute .................................................................................39
AND Symbol ...........................................................................................................................40
AND Symbol Example: discrete power on/off ........................................................................40
Buffer Symbol .........................................................................................................................41
Buffer Example: multi-device control .....................................................................................42
Buffer Example: triggering multiple events.............................................................................43
State Logic..............................................................................................................................46
Set/Reset Latch symbol ...........................................................................................................47
Set/Reset Latch Example: System Power Relay......................................................................47
Toggle Symbol.........................................................................................................................47
Toggle Example: Volume Mute...............................................................................................48
Toggle Example: Device Power On/Off..................................................................................48
Interlock Symbol .....................................................................................................................49
Interlock Example: Source Selection Feedback.......................................................................49
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Time-based Logic...................................................................................................................52
One Shot Family......................................................................................................................52
One Shot ..................................................................................................................................52
Multiple One Shot....................................................................................................................53
Retriggerable One Shot............................................................................................................53
Delay Symbol ..........................................................................................................................54
Oscillator Symbol ....................................................................................................................55
Analog Logic ..........................................................................................................................57
Analog Ramp Symbol..............................................................................................................57
Analog Initialize ......................................................................................................................58
Analog Preset Symbol .............................................................................................................60
Serial/Analog One-Shot...........................................................................................................61
Modules ...................................................................................................................................63
Communication Settings..........................................................................................................63
Compiling and Uploading Programs .......................................................................................65
Software License Agreement ................................................................................................67
Return and Warranty Policies..............................................................................................69
Merchandise Returns / Repair Service.....................................................................................69
CRESTRON Limited Warranty...............................................................................................69
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Crestron SIMPL Windows Software
Crestron SIMPL Windows
Overview
About this Primer
Simplified Control System
The intent of this primer is to introduce programmers to SIMPL Windows
programming techniques and how they apply to Crestron control systems. This
includes an understanding of how control systems use touchpanels and button panels
as user interfaces. Through these interfaces, a user might send a signal that is
processed by the control system (manipulated by logic symbols) and outputted to
eventually control a device.
The control process is more complex than this and has many more variables.
However, this is the basic concept of programming Crestron control systems. Users
of this information should have a basic understanding of the following:
Microsoft Windows
• Knowledge of basic Windows commands
• Familiarity with Windows features and functions
Audio/Visual
• Knowledge of different control formats (serial, IR, relays)
• Familiarity with A/V equipment
• Ability to read and understand control and wiring diagrams
SIMPL Windows provides a wide variety of symbols that are constantly being
expanded to support virtually every possible application. As you become proficient
at using SIMPL Windows it will become obvious that there are many ways to solve
the same control problem. This allows for programming creativity and independent
flexibility.
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Crestron Development Software
SIMPL Windows
Crestron SIMPL Windows provides all the tools necessary to configure, program,
test and debug an integrated control system application. Combining the familiar
drag-and-drop functionality of Microsoft Windows with the programming power of
SIMPL (Symbol Intensive Master Programming Language), SIMPL Windows
provides the link between Crestron systems hardware, user interfaces, and the world
of equipment to be controlled.
The configuration aspect of SIMPL Windows allows you to select the control
system, user interfaces, network devices and controlled equipment required for the
installation. To these hardware components you can assign port addresses, Network
IDs and IP addresses, set communication parameters and specify which device is
connected to which card or network control module. You can also specify what
VisionTools™ Pro-e touchpanel projects are required for the system.
The programming aspect allows you to select the logic symbols the system will
require, assign signals to those symbols and connect the signals to other symbols or
devices as determined by the program logic. SIMPL Windows includes a wide
variety of symbols that are constantly being expanded to support virtually every
possible application. As you become proficient at using SIMPL Windows it will
become obvious that there are many ways to solve the same control problem. This
allows for programming creativity and independent flexibility.
Finally, the testing aspect allows you to test and debug your SIMPL Windows
program using powerful diagnostic tools including Test Manager, Network Analyzer,
and the Crestron Viewport. You can call these tools directly from SIMPL Windows
or launch the tools independently.
For even greater flexibility, the SIMPL Windows installation package includes
SIMPL+™, a development tool that allows advanced programmers to create and
compile custom control modules using a procedural language similar to C. You can
add SIMPL+ modules to your SIMPL Windows program or user module much like a
logic symbol, to extend functionality or solve a specific control problem.
SIMPL Windows is fully integrated with Crestron's suite of software tools, which
include the following:
Crestron VisionTools® Pro-e
VisionTools® Pro-e is Crestron's touchpanel page design software. Using
VisionTools Pro-e, programmers can create powerful touchscreen control interfaces
that include pop-up subpages for specific device transport controls, multi-mode
buttons and sliders with 3D effects, high-resolution graphics, dynamic text, video
windows, sound, and more. VisionTools Pro-e uses join numbers to identify button
presses, feedback, and other digital, analog and serial signals. These join numbers
correspond to inputs and outputs on the touchpanel symbol detail in SIMPL
Windows.
DEAL™ for Windows
Crestron's DEAL™ (Device Editor and Learner) for Windows software enables
programmers to learn manufacturer's IR signals. When used in conjunction with the
Crestron CNXLIR (IR Learner), DEAL allows you to create, modify and test IR
driver files, and to save the learned IR files in the User Database where you can add
them to your SIMPL Windows program.
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Media Manager™ System Builder™
The Media Manager™ System Builder™ offers automatic programming for such
residential and commercial applications as audio distribution, home theater, and
video conferencing. The System Builder provides a Wizard-like interface that takes
you through a series of programming screens. Simply follow the prompts to select
the control system, user interfaces, devices and functionality. The System Builder
then automatically programs, compiles, and uploads the system, including
VisionTools Pro-e touchpanel projects and control system logic.
D3 Pro™
Crestron D3 Pro™ software offers design, development, and documentation for a
complete residential lighting system, with additional support for auxiliary devices
such as security systems, motion detectors and shades. Like the System Builder, D3
Pro presents a Wizard-like interface. Programming is accomplished through a series
of simple but powerful System View screens. After the design is complete, D3 Pro
automatically creates, compiles, and uploads the control system program and
touchpanel projects.
These are just some of the software tools that Crestron has created to help you
accomplish your programming tasks more easily and efficiently. You can download
all Crestron software for free from the Software Updates area of the Crestron Web
site (requires registration).
Databases
The Crestron Database is a large collection of information that is accessed by
various Crestron software packages, including SIMPL Windows, D3 Pro, and the
System Builder. The bulk of the Database consists of IR driver files that control user
devices such as CD players, DVD players, conferencing equipment, and other thirdparty IR devices the end user interfaces with using the Crestron control system.
In addition to IR driver files, the Crestron Database contains hundreds of Crestron
logic modules that control third-party device functions. Modules are self-contained
logic programs that have been pre-coded, tested and debugged at Crestron. These
dedicated modules can be plugged into a program and used to generate all the proper
control codes for a device automatically.
The User Database is designed to store IR driver files that are not included in the
Crestron Database. Programmers usually generate IR files using the Crestron
CNXLIR (IR Learner) in conjunction with DEAL (Driver Editor and Learner) for
Windows software. Alternatively, you can obtain user IR files by downloading them
from the Crestron Design Center or Crestron FTP site.
In addition to IR driver files, the User Modules directory stores user-created logic
modules that are not included in the Crestron Database.
Product Catalog CD
Crestron provides a variety of ways for you to obtain information about Crestron
hardware. The most comprehensive resource is the Crestron Web site:
www.crestron.com. Here you can download the most up-to-date user manuals,
reference guides, and CAD drawings for all Crestron control systems, network
devices and touchpanels. You can also access the Crestron Design Center, which
provides extensive information about user modules that control equipment from I2P
partner manufacturers, including help files, sample logic programs, touchpanel
projects, cable diagrams, and more.
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You can access the Crestron Web site directly from the SIMPL Windows Online
Support menu. Click Crestron Online for the Crestron home page, or click
Crestron Design Center to open the Dealer/Tech Resources page.
The Crestron Product Catalog and Technical Reference CD is another valuable
tool that you can use in conjunction with the Crestron Web site, or any time you're
not connected to the Internet. The CD is a comprehensive library of Crestron
brochures, catalogs, product specification sheets, CAD drawings and user manuals.
You can browse the CD independent of any Crestron program, or you can link the
CD directly to SIMPL Windows to display documentation for devices you select in
the Device Library.
To access user manuals from SIMPL Windows
1. Insert the Product Catalog CD into the CD-ROM drive (you can close the
selection screen if it opens automatically).
2. In the SIMPL Windows Device Library, select whichever Crestron control
system, network device, touchpanel or control card you want documentation
for and press F1.
3. The first time you try to access the Product Catalog CD from SIMPL
Windows you will be prompted to browse for the CD-ROM drive or folder
where the CD is located. Locate the drive or folder and click Open.
4. If documentation is available for the selected device, SIMPL Windows will
find the PDF file and open it in Adobe Reader. If no PDF file is available
for the device, then the SIMPL Windows help file will display
programming help for the device.
5. You can click Product Catalog CD on the SIMPL Windows Help menu
any time you want to open the CD selection screen for documents,
brochures, CAD drawings, or utilities.
6. If you do not have the CD inserted and you press F1 on a device in the
Device Library, SIMPL Windows will prompt you to insert the CD. You
can then either insert the CD or click Cancel to view the online help file.
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Crestron Control Systems
Why Program Control Systems?
The term program refers to the instructions loaded into the control processor that
cause it to operate in an intended way. For example, to control a DVD player, you
must write a program that tells the control system which port the unit is connected to,
what IR codes to send to it, and which buttons on a touchpanel trigger those
functions. A typical program may contain hundreds of similar instructions designed
to allow control of an entire rack full of audio/visual equipment. All programs are
written in the SIMPL programming language. Crestron has created the SIMPL
Windows development application expressly for writing in this language.
Elements of a Control System
Main Processor
The Crestron control system processor is the heart of a complete remote control
system. Its basic function is to integrate and communicate with equipment made by
other manufacturers. To do this the control system’s working memory (RAM) must
be programmed to use the specific instructions, or program, to communicate with the
devices being controlled.
In addition to working memory, control systems contain an operating system (OPS).
Similar to the operating systems that run personal computers, the OPS is a set of
instructions that enables the control system to understand the program that has been
loaded into it and to control equipment connected to the system by various
input/output devices (an infrared module, for example).
The need to upgrade the OPS will arise if programmers want to take advantage of
new programming capabilities, new Crestron hardware devices, or to correct a
problem found in a previous version. You can download control system updates from
the Crestron Web site. Operating system files on this site have file names such as
c2.v3080.cuz, with different extensions depending on the type of processor. Before
downloading, make sure the update is compatible with your control system by
verifying that the file name matches the OPS version number and the extension
corresponds to your control processor model.
2-Series processors use a CUZ file to load the operating system to the control
system. 2-Series processors provide 32 MB of DRAM, which is expandable to 4GB
for processors that include a Compact Flash slot. The size of the program, and
number of analog, digital, and serial signals that can be processed are limited only by
the amount of available RAM. In addition to RAM, the processor provides 256KB of
NVRAM (non-volatile RAM) that is used to store SIMPL+ variables and variables
expressly written to it by some “memory” symbols in SIMPL. These symbols
include Analog RAM, Digital RAM, and Analog Non-Volatile Ramp, and are
commonly used for lighting or volume presets. Non-volatile RAM retains data
written to it when power is turned off. The 256K of NVRAM may also be split to use
64K or 128K as an NVRAM disk.
X-Series processors have a base Monitor in addition to the operating system, as well
as separate TCP/IP stacks, all contained in a UPZ file. The separate stacks are for
systems that include the CNXENET or CNXENET+ card for Ethernet
communication. X-Series processors allow a total of 16373 user-defined digital
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signals, and 2048 user-defined analog/serial signals. The processor also provides
256K of NVRAM that is divided in different ways depending on the type of Ethernet
card being used.
“Legacy” control processors such as the ST-CP and CN-Series processors allow a
total of 4085 user-defined digital signals and 512 analog/serial user-defined signals.
Processor Maximum number of signals
2-Series Depends on available RAM
X-Series 16373 digital
2048 analog/serial
ST-CP and CN-Series 4085 digital
512 analog/serial
Network Control Modules
Network control modules are devices connected to the Cresnet or Ethernet network
that extend the functionality of the control system and allow it to control third-party
equipment. Crestron provides an impressive variety of network control modules,
including audio receivers, mixers, distribution switchers, surround sound processors,
video processors, camera controllers and room solution boxes.
Any 2-Series processor is also capable of operating in “slave” mode, meaning that it
can be controlled by another 2-Series processor, in order to operate as a powerful
network control module.
Network control modules are located in the SIMPL Windows Device Library as
Cresnet Control Modules and Ethernet Control Modules. Lighting control
modules are located in the Lighting folder.
Plug-in Control Cards
Crestron plug-in control cards are circuit boards that can be easily installed in the
expansion slots of a processor and allow it to communicate with equipment. Plug-in
control cards include network interface cards that connect the 2-Series or X-Series
control system to the Ethernet network. Control cards are represented in the SIMPL
Windows Device Library as Plug-in Control Cards. Once installed and configured
the control cards allow the system to control virtually any number and variety of
devices.
Many control devices such as serial ports are available as either Plug-in Control
Cards or Network Control Modules.
Cards are usually less expensive since they don’t require housing or power
regulation. Of course, control cards are limited to the number of expansion slots in
the control processor.
User Interfaces
User interfaces are the controls that the user will use to request an action. Crestron
manufacturers a large variety of user interfaces, ranging from simple and
inexpensive handheld remotes and keypads to top-of-the-line touchpanels.
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Touchpanels
Crestron touchpanels are the most common user interface of any control system.
Touchpanels are available in Cresnet, Ethernet, and wireless versions with either
gray scale or color displays.
Programmers develop touchpanel screen layouts with VisionTools Pro-e software.
Buttons are assigned numbers that link them to the specific operation that it
represents in the SIMPL Windows program. These links are called join numbers
and will be describe in more detail later.
Wired Keypads
Wired keypads have a simple design and operate on the Cresnet network. Their
push-button operation offers classic styling. Many models offer a choice of button
configurations and panel finishes.
Wireless Remotes
Crestron wireless touchpanels and remotes communicate with the control system
using Crestron gateway receivers (e.g. CNRFGWA, CNIRGWA, or CNRFGWX).
The gateway is connected to the control system via Cresnet. Wireless IR/RF
transmitters are one-way devices; they do not receive, but only transmit IR or RF
signals. Likewise, the Crestron CNIRGW is a one-way remote IR receiver and the
CNRFGWA is a one-way remote RF receiver.
Control Methods
User devices
User devices are the audio/visual equipment, such as CD players, TVs, and VCRs
that will be controlled by the Crestron control system. The User Devices folder
contains hundreds of driver files for these devices, organized by manufacturer or
device type.
When working with and programming Crestron control systems, it is important to
have a good understanding of how devices can be controlled. In general, any device
that has an electrical interface of some sort can be controlled by a Crestron control
system. The most common control methods are listed below:
• Relay closures (mechanical or solid-state)
• Serial communications
• Analog voltages
• Custom Crestron interfaces
Relay closures
Many devices employ internal electronics that allow functions to be triggered
through a simple electrical contact. In the world of control systems, this is
accomplished using relays. Devices such as screens and drapes, or third-party
lighting control systems tend to use this type of interface. In addition, some notdimmed lighting circuits can be switched on and off using relays. Crestron
manufactures relays of many different flavors: low-power relays for use with devices
that do not draw a lot of current or require high voltages, and high-power relays for
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direct control of motors and lighting circuits. In addition, relays can either be
mechanical or solid-state. If you are unsure about what type of relay is needed for a
given application, you can call Crestron technical support for assistance.
Serial Communications
Many devices today can be controlled using various types of serial communication.
Typically serial-controlled devices use one of the following types of serial
communication: Infrared, RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, MIDI, and "custom serial". In
the next few paragraphs we will discuss the differences between these formats.
What does "serial" mean?
The term serial describes a communications format in which one piece of
information is transmitted and/or received after the next. As an analogy, think of a
telephone where you hear one word after word until a sentence is constructed. This is
different from parallel communications in which multiple pieces of information are
transmitted and received simultaneously.
Serial communication encompasses a wide variety of popular formats, many of
which are supported directly with Crestron control systems. The sections below
describe the most common formats in more detail.
IR (Infrared)
For many years infrared remote control has been very popular, and today it remains
among the most common forms of serial control. As the name implies, infrared
control consists of serial data transmitted via pulses of infrared light. In addition, IR
signals are usually modulated by a carrier signal. In most cases this carrier signal has
a frequency of approximately 40kHz, though some can go as high as 1MHz.
In the Crestron world there are two applications of IR control. Crestron wireless user
interfaces may use IR for communication with the control system. In this case the IR
is transmitted/received by Crestron equipment is in a proprietary format.
Crestron IR wireless interface
The other application of IR control is IR signals that the system generates to control
other manufacturer’s devices (e.g. to mimic Sony or Panasonic). The system can
generate the functions that were available on the device's remote control.
Since IR is a one-way communication, there is no feedback from the equipment
being controlled. That is, data is transmitted to the device to be controlled, but no
data is returned from the device to the control system. This means that when using
IR control, you have no true feedback from the device telling you that your
command was accepted, for example. This is one inherent disadvantage with this
type of control. Another disadvantage of IR is that it depends upon a line-of-sight
between the control system and the device to be controlled. To counter this problem,
Crestron can provide an IR probe, which provides a wired connection from the
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control system to the IR receiver on the controlled device. Care must be taken to
ensure that the IR emitter on the IR probe is properly located next to the receiver.
Remote IR Equipment
Manufacturers do not normally publish the exact nature of the data that is being sent
via their IR remote controls. Therefore in order to generate the proper signal out of
the Crestron IR card, the remote must be learned through the use of a special device
called an IR Learner. The device, when attached to a PC and used in conjunction
with Crestron’s IR learning software (DEAL for Windows), will generate a driver
file that can be inserted into your programs. Once the program is finished and loaded
into the control system, the control system’s IR card can convert the information in
the driver file into the proper electrical signal.
Crestron IR Equipment
IR Probes (CNXIRP and STIRP)
The IR probe (CNXIRP or STIRP) is a very small, wired IR emitter that Crestron
developed to be installed externally over a device’s IR window. The probe is wired
from the control system and emits IR signals directly into the device's IR window.
Since the IR Probe can be mounted externally on equipment, it eliminates the need to
open other manufacturer’s equipment in order to rewire or alter the IR window. In
addition, by installing the probe directly on the device being controlled, the
interference caused by direct sunlight and high efficiency fluorescent lighting can be
eliminated.
IR Sprayer
The IR sprayer in an IR emitter that can “spray” IR signals 90 degrees. It eliminates
the need for the IR probe and can be positioned in a central location to reach all
devices. It is designed to handle several IR codes so only one sprayer is needed for
many devices.
IR Device Modules/Control Cards
IR device modules, such as the C2IR-8 or the IR ports built into some control
systems, provide control of IR or some serial controlled devices. The C2IR-8 and the
built in IR ports require the IR probe (CNXIRP) when using IR communication.
See Serial IR for information on using IR ports for serial communication.
IR Learner (CNXLIR)
Crestron Electronics CNXLIR is used to "learn" the codes (pulses of infrared light)
that a device's remote sends to control a piece of equipment. By learning these codes
programmers can create custom IR device drivers. DEAL for Windows software
allows programmers to create, modify, and test driver files. Programmers can then
store the learned .IR files in the User Database for use in their SIMPL Windows
programs.
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Crestron Database
As described earlier, the Crestron Database contains hundreds of pre-coded IR driver
files for programmers to utilize. This database covers most of the IR controlled
devices on the market today. In fact, the database supports all current control
formats, including relay control, analog voltages, and TCP/IP. Programmers can
search the database by manufacturer or device type.
Custom Serial
The term custom serial is used here to describe a communications protocol that is
similar to IR, but is carried out over a wire rather than light pulses, and there is no
carrier frequency. It is called custom because currently a number of manufacturers
employ this method, but there is no true standard. Sony Control-S and Marantz RC-5
are examples of custom serial formats in use today.
In terms of usage, this form of serial communications differs from IR only in that a
specially made wired cable must be used in place of an IR probe to connect from the
control system to the controlled device. Because the data format is normally identical
to a corresponding IR remote, serial drivers are created first by learning the remote to
generate an IR driver, then by passing the file through a special filter that removes
the carrier frequency. Just like with IR, custom serial signals are generated using an
IR card such as the C2IR-8.
Crestron Custom Serial Equipment
CNSP-109
The CNS-109 is an Electrahome/Vidikron Cable for use with C2IR-8 or (1) serial
output port.
CNSP-110
The CNSP-110 is a Sony VO 5000, 7000, 9000 serial Umatic cable for use with
C2IR-8 port.
CNSP-112
The CNSP-112 is a Sony Control-S cable for use with (1) C2IR-8 port.
RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485
The terms RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 all refer to physical standards for serial
communication developed by the Electronic Industries Association (EIA). The
standards specify the electrical interface between equipment. These standards have
been developed to allow various pieces of equipment to communicate with one
another without concern for special hardware; any device that conforms to one of the
standards above should be able to communicate with any other device conforming to
the same standard. Of the three formats, RS-232 is by far the most popular for use in
control systems. For the remainder of this section, the term RS-232 will be used to
describe any of the three protocols, except where noted.
Unlike the IR or custom serial formats, RS-232 control does not use ready-to-go
driver files. Instead, the data format, or protocol, that a controlled device is
expecting will be described in the unit's manual. This protocol includes the data that
the device expects to receive and transmit, the speed at which it communicates (baud
rate), the error checking (parity), the number of data bits and the number of stop bits.
In addition, a given device may require hardware (RTS/CTS) or software
(XON/XOFF) handshaking, which controls the flow of data between two devices.
All of these elements are adjusted in the control program to match the manufacturer's
specification.
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Because of the absence of a driver file, RS-232 control is generally considered more
difficult to program than IR or custom serial. This is because each time an RS-232
device is to be programmed, the programmer must look up the protocol in the
manual, and then write the necessary logic into his program to send this data. To
counter this, many devices have dedicated modules written for them. These modules
can be plugged into a program and used to generate all the proper control codes
automatically.
The differences between RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 are physical in nature, and do
not affect the programmer, except that they must make sure that the Crestron product
being used to send the data supports the format, and has been configured properly.
RS-232 uses one wire to transmit data, and one wire to receive it. It is generally valid
for sending data up to 50 feet, but this distance can depend on many factors, such as
cable quality, baud rate, and the ambient electrical noise. The RS-422 format uses a
balanced pair of wires for transmission, and another pair for reception. The balanced
pair allows the data to be less susceptible to noise, and RS-422 signals can be sent up
to 2000 feet. The final standard, RS-485, is similar to RS-422 except that a single
pair of conductors is used for both transmitting and receiving data. This makes RS485 very attractive for network applications, where data is being shared between
more than 2 devices. A typical application might be an HVAC system that
communicates to various thermostats and to a control system over an RS-485 LAN.
The Crestron C2IR-8 plug-in control card can only transmit RS-232 one-way. The
C2COM-2 plug-in control card is capable of generating RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485
two-way signals. The ST-COM network device can generate RS-232, RS-422, or
RS-485 two-way communication data.
Crestron RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 Equipment
C2IR-8
The C2-IR8 includes eight serial ports for one-way RS-232.
C2COM-2
The C2COM-2 is a Cresnet plug-in control card. It includes two bi-directional RS232/RS-422 (DB-9) ports with hardware handshaking.
CAUTION: The DB9 pin-outs on the C2COM-2 control card are not standard RS-
232. Connecting a straight-through serial cable may damage equipment. Refer to the
Crestron Cable database or contact Crestron for serial cable pin-out specifications.
ST-COM
The ST-COM network device can generate either RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 data.
Limitations
RS-232 is limited to a wire length of 50ft (15 m) and a minimum of three conductors
(RXD, TXD, and Ground).
Each piece of equipment requires a specific (protocol) format for the data it is
expecting.
Programmer needs to be familiar with binary, hex, and/or ASCII in order to generate
the correct strings.
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface)
MIDI stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface and is yet another serial
communications standard. As its name implies, MIDI is used most commonly for
allowing musical instruments to talk to one another. However, certain audio mixers,
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Software Crestron SIMPL Windows
which sometimes find their way into control system applications, use MIDI control.
From a programmer’s viewpoint, MIDI does not differ from RS-232, RS-422, or RS-
485. From a hardware standpoint, the CNX-MIDI card is required to generate the
proper control signals.
Crestron MIDI Equipment
CNX-MIDI
The CNX-MIDI interface card is a MIDI IN, OUT and THRU interface. It is used
with mixers and lighting equipment.
Analog Voltages
Certain devices, typically units such as camera pan-tilt heads, lighting control
systems, or voltage-controlled attenuators (VCAs) can be controlled with an analog
voltage. Programmable analog voltages can be generated using the CNXAO-8 card
or C2I-IO8. The latter card contains 8 Versiports capable of being programmed for
digital input/output or analog output.
Custom Crestron Interfaces
Certain devices have control interfaces that do not fall neatly into one control method
or category. In these instances Crestron has developed custom modules (either plugin control cards or network modules) to offer control. Examples of these include:
• Line-level audio attenuation (volume control)
• Pan/Tilt and Zoom/Focus control
• Slide projector control
• Keyboard/Mouse interface
• Lighting (dimmed and non-dimmed) and motor control
modules
For detailed information regarding the above, see the Crestron Catalog for exact
model names, and reference the User Guide for each module.
Cresnet
The Crestron network, or Cresnet, refers to the network topology that is used by
Crestron. The RS-485 bus is used to connect the control system to Crestron
‘network’ devices such as a CNECI-4A (electric control interface for AC powered
devices) or a CNSC-1A (slide projector interface). The RS-485 bus should be used to
locate devices remotely when the limitations of IR and RS 232 restrict the
installation plans. For example, IR must have line-of-sight to the device being
controlled. Serial communications (RS-232) is limited to 50ft. The Cresnet RS-485 is
a proprietary cable connection that can be connected to devices with up to 5,000 feet
of cable.
Cresnet cable consists of:
• Pair A #22 AWG, twisted pair with shield for data lines
• Pair B #18 AWG, twisted pair for power and ground
• PVC jacket
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Cresnet - Network Interconnect Specifications
CAUTION: POSSIBLE EQUIPMENT DAMAGE IF MISWIRED.
Do not power up system until all wiring is verified. Care should be taken to
ensure data (Y, Z) and power (24, G) connections are not crossed.
Ground shield at control system end only.
Model CNTBLOCK network terminal block is recommended for testing
purposes and convenience of wiring.
Primer – DOC. 6253 Crestron SIMPL Windows • 13
Crestron SIMPL Windows Software
SIMPL Windows Programming
Introduction to SIMPL
Crestron engineers are dedicated to the development of our products and the
interface with other manufacturer’s equipment. However, control systems need
individual programming in order to be customized for each installation. Crestron
control systems are programmed using SIMPL (Symbol Intensive Master
Programming Language).
SIMPL is an object oriented programming language designed for easy
implementation of your control system requirements. The objects that are used in
SIMPL are called symbols. Each symbol has a specific set of operations that it will
perform. The lines that connect symbols are called signals. The collection of SIMPL
symbols and their interconnection to one another is the program. Therefore, the
program is actually a picture created with objects (symbols) and lines (signals). This
type of picture is also referred to as a block diagram or flow diagram in other
applications. When planning an A/V installation, a block diagram indicating how all
of the system equipment is connected is essential to the installer. SIMPL allows the
programmer to develop a control program in a similar fashion. The collection of all
the symbols being used and the signals that connect them create a picture similar to a
block diagram. The development of a SIMPL program is intimately tied to the block
diagram of the A/V installation.
Symbol Categories
Writing a program in SIMPL is similar to wiring a circuit: you have to choose the
right components, and you have to wire them together properly. As just described, in
SIMPL the components are called symbols and the wires are called signals. Just like
in real-world electronics there are a multitude of symbols to choose from to
accomplish your goal, as you program more and more systems you will likely find a
subset of symbols that you use for most situations.
Symbols in SIMPL can be divided into two broad categories: device symbols and
logic symbols.
Device Symbols
Device symbols represent Crestron network control devices that can be included in a
program. They can be placed into or deleted from the program in the Configuration
Manager section of SIMPL Windows only. The Program Manager allows device
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Software Crestron SIMPL Windows
symbols to be connected, but not added or deleted. Device symbols are located in the
Device Library of the Configuration Manager.
Logic Symbols
While device symbols allow you to communicate with the outside world, logic
symbols allow you to make your program perform exactly the way you want. Logic
symbols can range from the very basic ones such as the AND, OR, or NOT symbols,
to those designed for very special applications. A more in-depth discussion of logic
symbols can be found in the Programming with Symbols section.
Symbol Properties
Although each symbol serves a special purpose, all symbols share some basic
properties. These are inputs, outputs, and parameters.
Example: Analog Ramp symbol
Inputs
Symbol inputs allow signals to be connected from other parts of the program.
Depending upon the symbol type, the current state of the input signal(s) may affect
one or more output signal(s). Some symbols have a fixed number of inputs, while
others can have a variable number of inputs, determined by the programmer based
upon need.
Outputs
Except for a few special cases, the ultimate purpose of a symbol is to modify the
states of its outputs. These outputs states will depend upon the symbol type, the
current or past states of the input signals, and the values of the parameters. Because
the symbol alone determines the states of its output signal(s), the symbol is
considered the driving source for the output signals. Depending on the nature of
signal, some outputs can have more than one driving source.
Similar to symbol inputs, the number of symbol outputs is fixed for some symbols,
or can be variable based on need for other symbols.
Parameters
Some symbols also have parameters, which are constant values that help determine
how the symbol behaves. For example, a symbol that delays an action for a specified
period of time would have a parameter determining how long the delay should be
for. The exact function of a parameter depends solely on the symbol type itself.
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For convenience, parameters may be expressed in a variety of formats (all of which
are directly related to one another). Although a parameter will default to one format
based upon the symbol type, you can alter the format by changing the format
specifier at the end of the value.
Listed below are the valid formats, where the character in parentheses represents the
format identifier.
• (d)ecimal
• (h)exadecimal
• (%) percentage of 65535
• (s)econds
• (t)icks – 1 tick = 1/100 seconds (2-Series); or 1/112.5 seconds (X-Series)
• (')character(') (single byte)
To set a parameter to a specific format, add the identifier after the value, i.e., 25%; if
the parameter is a single byte, place single quotes before and after the ASCII
character.
Parameters can also specify the time of day. Here the time of day is expressed in
military time followed by the “seconds” format specifier, as follows:
• HH.MM.SS.HSs
• MM.SS.HSs
• SS.HSs
• SSs
• .HSs
Where HH = hours; MM = minutes; SS = seconds; and HS = hundredths of a second.
For example, the parameter 20.03.05s signifies a time value of 20 minutes, 3
seconds, and 5 hundredths of a second. When using this notation you can leave out
the larger units if you are not using them, thus "3.00.00s" would mean 3 minutes, 0
seconds, and 0 hundredths of a second (it would NOT mean 3 hours).
Depending on the function of a symbol, a parameter can be signed or unsigned.
Signed values range from–32768 to +32767; unsigned values range from 0 to 65535.
Percentages can also be expressed as negatives, i.e., -25% = 25% of 65536, or
16384. (-16384 = 49152d). Thus a parameter of -25% is the same as 49152d. Refer
to the SIMPL Windows help file for further information on valid parameter values.
NOTE: Parameters are constants whose value must be known at compile time. The
value of the parameter cannot be changed while the program is running (e.g. a signal
cannot be assigned to a parameter). To change a parameter, the program must be
changed and recompiled.
Signal Types
The concept of the signal has already been broached. Signals are the elements used
in your program to interconnect the various device and logic symbols that comprise
your program. However the discussion of signals does not end there. For starters,
signals can be one of three types: digital, analog, or serial. For any given signal, the
signal type is determined by the driving source. If the symbol that drives the signal
Primer – DOC. 6253 Crestron SIMPL Windows • 17
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