Hall HIVE-NODE-IR, HIVE-NODE-RELAY, HIVE-NODE-RS-232 Users Guide

Hall Technologies June 1, 2023 Page 1 of 26

Hall Technologies • 1234 Lakeshore Dr Suite #150 Coppell, TX 75019 • halltechav.com

HIVE NODE KITS

Relay, RS-232 and IR Control over IP

USER MANUAL

June 1, 2023

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Table of Contents

Introduction ................................................................................................................................................ 3

Overview ......................................................................................................................................... 3

Overall Features .............................................................................................................................. 3

HIVE-NODE-IR Features ................................................................................................................... 3

HIVE-NODE-RELAY Features ............................................................................................................ 3

HIVE-NODE-RS-232 Features ........................................................................................................... 3

Package Contents ........................................................................................................................................ 4

HIVE-NODE-IR .................................................................................................................................. 4

HIVE-NODE-RELAY ........................................................................................................................... 4

HIVE-NODE-RS-232 .......................................................................................................................... 4

Panel Description ........................................................................................................................................ 5

HIVE-NODE-MINI ............................................................................................................................. 5

HIVE-NODE-IR .................................................................................................................................. 6

HIVE-NODE-RELAY ........................................................................................................................... 7

HIVE-NODE-RS-232 .......................................................................................................................... 8

Relay Tech Guide ......................................................................................................................................... 9

Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 9

Input and Output Connector Blocks ............................................................................................... 9

Relay Outputs .................................................................................................................................. 9

Electrical Specifications ................................................................................................................. 10

Sensors .......................................................................................................................................... 10

Sensor Input Characteristics ......................................................................................................... 11

Web GUI .................................................................................................................................................... 13

Main Page...................................................................................................................................... 13

Network Settings ........................................................................................................................... 14

Infrared Cable ................................................................................................................................ 15

Serial Cable .................................................................................................................................... 16

Relay/Sensor ................................................................................................................................. 17

Security ......................................................................................................................................... 18

Advanced ....................................................................................................................................... 18

Utility Applications .................................................................................................................................... 19

Node Convert ................................................................................................................................ 19

Node Help ..................................................................................................................................... 20

Node Learn .................................................................................................................................... 21

Node Test ...................................................................................................................................... 22

Specifications ............................................................................................................................................ 23

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Introduction

OVERVIEW

Hive Node Kits are our advanced IoT controllers that offer an efficient and compact solution for
controlling devices through RS-232, IR, and Relay interfaces via IP. These PoE-powered kits are designed
specifically to enhance the capabilities of the Hive Touch control panel and the Hive KP8 control keypad.

OVERALL FEATURES

• Offers control over TCP/IP networks using a single Cat cable

• Equipped with IR, RS-232, and Relay accessories for diverse control

• Built-in IR Learner with a robust IR database for effective AV control

• PoE-powered for a convenient, hassle-free setup

• Web interface for easy setup

• UDP broadcasting for sensor data collection

• Designed to enhance the capabilities of Hive Touch control panel or Hive KP8 control keypad

• Scalable, supports multiple kits in a single installation

• Includes PC utilities for easy setup and testing

• Compact and DIN rail mountable for easy installation

• Made in the USA

HIVE-NODE-RELAY FEATURES

• 4 Relay outputs and 4 sensor inputs with LED indicators

• POE powered and easy installation with push/release terminals

• Flexible relay combinations and adaptable sensor modes

• Native compatibility with Hive Touch and Hive KP8

• Enhances the Hive-Node-RS-232 and/or Hive-Node-IR as part of a complete control solution

• Relay control via TCP and sensor updates via UDP

HIVE-NODE-RS-232 FEATURES

• Controls displays, projectors, switchers, and DSPs

• Includes PoE-powered Hive-Node-Mini with RS232 adapter and gender changer

• Supports RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, full and half duplex

• Configurable null modem settings and baud rate via web page or API

• Dedicated TCP IP port for serial communication

• Scalable and adaptable to unique project requirements

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HIVE-NODE-IR FEATURES

• Versatile one-way device control

• Compatibility with an array of displays, projectors, and media players

• Includes PoE-powered Hive-Node-Mini, tri-port and 3 emitters

• Connects to single IR emitter or tri-port for multiple device control

• IR emitters provide blink feedback for easy troubleshooting

• Access to extensive IR device driver database

• Features IR learning capability via built-in sensor and utility

• Seamlessly integrates with Hive Touch and Hive KP8 controllers

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Package Contents

HIVE-NODE-IR

• 1 x HIVE-NODE-MINI main controller

• 1 x Tri-port cable adapter

• 3 x IR Emitters

HIVE-NODE-RELAY

• 1 x HIVE-NODE-MINI main controller

• 1 x Relay Sensor

HIVE-NODE-RS-232

• 1 x HIVE-NODE-MINI main controller

• 1 x RS-232 Cable

• 1 x Gender Bender

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Panel Description

HIVE-NODE-MINI

ID

Name

Description

1

USB Micro

Used for providing power to the device if a PoE switch is not available.

2

Receiver Port

3.5mm receiver port, used to connect to HIVE-NODE-IR, HIVE-NODE-RELAY, or HIVE­NODE-RS-232 devices

3

Network

RJ45 PoE network port

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HIVE-NODE-IR

ID

Name

Description

1

IR Ports

3 x IR emitter ports

2

3.5mm Connector

Connects into the HIVE-NODE-MINI receiver port

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HIVE-NODE-RELAY

ID

Name

Description

1

Relay

4 x Relay ports

2

Contact Closure

4 x Contact closure ports

3

3.5mm Connector

Connects into the HIVE-NODE-MINI receiver port

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HIVE-NODE-RS-232

ID

Name

Description

1

Speaker

2 x Speakers for audio signal output.

2

3.5mm Connector

Connects into the HIVE-NODE-MINI receiver port

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Relay Tech Guide

INTRODUCTION

The relay & sensor cable is an input/output cable for use with the HIVE-NODE-MINI. It provides relay
outputs and sensor inputs which allow control and monitoring of a variety of devices. Configuration is
accomplished through hardware jumpers and software API. External devices are connected via push­release terminal blocks. The enclosure can be mounted directly on a DIN rail, allowing for simple
integration with external relays.

The relay outputs are fully configurable to operate as a number of different standard relay types and
are capable of controlling a wide range of devices.

The sensor inputs are configurable to allow detection of contact closure, as well as AC and DC voltage.

INPUT AND OUTPUT CONNECTOR BLOCKS

The board provides terminal connector blocks for connecting external devices. These connector blocks
are physically grouped as relay outputs, and sensor inputs. Each distinct port within the relay outputs
or sensor inputs use 2 terminals. For example, in the figure above, Port 1 uses terminals 1 and 2, and
port 2 uses terminals 3 and 4.

Relay ports can be configured as individual SPST relays, but can also be logically grouped with other
ports to create other common relay type configurations. Input ports are all individually configurable

and support either voltage sensing or contact closure modes.

RELAY OUTPUTS

The relay outputs can be configured via hardware jumpers and software API to operate as various
common relay types. These supported relay types and associated jumper settings are shown in the
following illustrations.

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Each relay configuration has a configurable default state. This allows relays to be set up as either
normally open or normally closed. The above illustrations depict the relays in an open state with a
default state of open.

Single Pole, Single Throw:

Each physical port functions as an individual relay, and each relay uses a single port. For example, Port
1 uses terminals 1 & 2, and Port 2 uses terminals 3 & 4.

Single Pole, Double Throw:

Two physical relay output ports are grouped such that pins 1 and 4 are connected as the common pole,
with double (2) throws (positions), to terminal 3 and terminal 2.This mode is useful for applications
where two separate outputs are needed, rather than simply turning a device on or off.

Double Pole, Double Throw:

Four ports (two relay blocks) are configured as a pair of SPDT relays. In this mode, the two SPDT relays
are linked, so that both throw simultaneously.

ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Relay Rating

Minimum Value

Maximum Value

Voltage

--

24 Volts

Current

--

500mA

SENSORS

Sensor inputs are versatile and allow for sensing contact-closure, as well as the presence of voltages
between ±3V and ±24V RMS value. Each terminal block provides 2 input ports. Each input port on an
input block can be configured independently.

To configure a port for voltage input, disconnect all jumpers, or store jumpers vertically in the bottom
two positions of the jumper pins. In the following figure, a block of 2 input ports is configured with

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both ports set for voltage-sense. In this state the inputs are read as open (‘0’) until a voltage is applied
at which point the indicator LEDs turn on and the inputs are read as closed (‘1’).

To configure input ports for contact closure, the jumpers should be placed vertically on the top two
pins of each column of jumper pins, as shown below for the two ports. In this configuration, the state
of the inputs will be closed (‘1’) until contact-closure occurs, at which point the input state will be open
(‘0’).

SENSOR INPUT CHARACTERISTICS

Characteristics

Minimum Value

Maximum Value

Input Voltage AC/DC

±3V (RMS)*

±24V (RMS)*

Input Current

200µA

--

Input Low to High Response

1.5ms**

3ms**

Input High to Low Response

110ms**

250ms**

Contact Closure Detection Source Current

--

2mA

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*For AC signals at low frequencies the minimum input voltage becomes a function of frequency. The above graph depicts
this relationship.
**These times are for relay and sensor board hardware detection only and do not include network and processing delays.

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Web GUI

The Web GUI designed for the HIVE-NODE family allows for basic controls and device settings. This Web
UI can be accessed through a modern browser, e.g., Chrome, Safari, Firefox, IE10+, etc.

To get access the Web UI:

1. Connect the LAN port of the switcher to a local area network. Ensure there’s a DHCP server in the

network so that the device can obtain a valid IP address. (If there is no DHCP server the video bar
will revert to a 169.254.x.x address which you can find on the OSD. Use this to change the video
bar IP to a static IP address and set your own.)

2. Connect the PC to the same network as the HT-NODE.

3. Input the HIVE-NODE’s IP address in the browser and press Enter, the following window pops up.

4. Input the password (default password: admin) and click Login to enter the main page

MAIN PAGE

UI Element

Description

Network Settings

Click the icon to start the preview of the camera.

Hive Node Cable

Selects the control cable to be used.

Security

Security settings such as username and password.

Advanced Settings

Select the desired tracking mode between Off, Auto Framing, Speaker Tracking, and
Presenter Tracking.

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NETWORK SETTINGS

UI Element

Description

DHCP Enabled/Disabled

Click to enable/disable DHCP (default is set to DHCP)

Hostname

Set the desired name of the host

Save Changes

Click to save the changes

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INFRARED CABLE

UI Element

Description

Emitter Type

Select the IR connection method

Save Changes

Click to save any changes to the IR emitter selection

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SERIAL CABLE

UI Element

Description

Baud Rate

Set the desired baud rate:

Flow Control (RS-232)

Duplex (RS-485)

Select between half and full duplex when using RS-485. Set Full for 4-signal RS-485, and
Half for 2-signal RS-485.

Parity

Set desired parity: None, Even, or Odd

Data Bits

Set the desired data bits

Stop Bits

Set the desired stop bits

Gender Changer (RS-232)

The gender of the data cable can be changed using the included gender changer.

• True: used if the gender changer is used

• False: used if the gender changer is not used

Errors

Tracks any communication errors that may occur. Click to reset each error count.

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RELAY/SENSOR

UI Element

Description

Relay Type

In Presenter Tracking mode the camera frames the location of the presenter. This is
typically used for a single presenter.

Note: there are no adjustments for smooth or speed of the framing in this mode.

Jumper Settings

Mirror flips the camera in the mirrored direction.

Current State

If there is flicker in the camera, typically caused by fluorescent light bulbs in the room,
change the set frequency to the other one. (Options are 50Hz or 60Hz)

Sensors

Off decreases the quality of the camera to ensure laptop compatibility; On increases the
quality to HD.

Save Changes

Adjusts wide dynamic range to improve the camera’s image quality under high-contrast
lighting conditions.

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SECURITY

UI Element

Description

User Name

Change the user name (default is admin)

Password

Change the password (default is admin)

Web Lock

Click to enable/disable web lock

API Lock

Click to enable/disable API lock

System Lock

Click to enable/disable System Lock

Save Changes

Click to save any changes made to the security settings

ADVANCED

UI Element

Description

Reboot

Click to reboot the HIVE-NODE-MINI

Factory Reset

Click to restore the HIVE-NODE-MINI to the original factory settings

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Utility Applications

There are four different utility applications.

NODE CONVERT

This utility is used to convert between IR codes and Hex codes. This is an executable file and does not
require installation.

UI Element

Description

Input

Enter the command you wish to have converted

Convert From/To

Use the drop-down to select the desired command to be converted to.

Convert

Click on “Convert” to convert the command.

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NODE HELP

This utility is used to locate and configure HIVE-NODE-MINI devices on the network and is necessary to
update the firmware. This is an executable file and does not require installation. When this utility is used
it sends out multicast beacons and displays every MAC ID and IP Address within one minute.

UI Element

Description

Detected Units

Displays all detected HIVE-HIVE-NODE-MINI devices on the network

Auto refresh / Refresh

Click to checkbox to enable auto refresh. With this enabled the NodeHelp utility will
constantly search for new HIVE-NODE-MINI devices. If unchecked, click the “Refresh”
button to refresh the list manually.

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NODE LEARN

This utility is used to capture IR commands from different devices. This is an executable file and does not
require installation.

d

UI Element

Description

Connection

Select the desired HIVE-NODE-MINI and click connect.

Capture Options

Set the desired capture options.

Format

Select the desired output format of the learned IR command

Save

Save the learned command to the desired file location.

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NODE TEST

This utility is used to send literal strings, individual hex bytes, or a mixture of both to devices connected
to HIVE-NODE-MINI. This utility contains two receive windows, one printing ASCII, and the other printing
the hex values of each character received in a sixteen-byte hex dump format. This is an executable file
and does not require installation.

UI Element

Description

Communications

Select the desired communication string along with the HIVE-NODE-MINI’s IP address and
connect to the device.

Command String

Enter the command string to be tested and hit Send

Responses

Responses to the command will be shown in these windows

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Specifications

HIVE-NODE-MINI

Interface

1 x RJ45, 1 x USB Micro, 1 x 3.5mm Connector

Setup & Configuration

Integrated web server for easy configuration and HTTP control

Network Connection

DHCP (default) & Static, 10/100 Mb Ethernet protocol

LED Indicators

Power to indicate activity and status

Control APIs

TCP

 ASCII textual commands
 Comma delimited, carriage return terminated

HTTP

 Web-based control using HTTP commands with JSON payload data

Dimensions (L x W x H)

65.5mm x 30.99mm x 20.83mm (2.58” x 1.22” x 0.82”)

Certifications

FCC (Part 15, Class B), C-tick, RoHS compliant

Infrared

IR Output

3.5mm connector, from 20 to 500 kHz

IR Tri-Port

Support for emitter-emitter-emitter or emitter-emitter-blaster

Relay

Relay Outputs

 4 Integrated SPST relays with transient voltage suppression and easy push

release terminal blocks

 24V AC/DC or 500mA N.O. contact relays

Relay Configurations

 Single Pole Single Throw (SPSP)
 Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT)
 Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT)

Sensor Inputs

 4 configurable inputs
 Voltage or contact closure sense modes

Voltage Sense Mode

Sense AC/DC voltages ±3V (RMS) to ±24V (RMS)

Contact Closure Mode

Sense contact closure from input from devices or feedback from external relays

Cable/Connector

 3.5mm four conductor jack to HIVE-NODE-MINI
 4 easy push four terminal blocks for relay and sensor connections
 16 hardware jumpers included
 4.5 ft (1.5m) cable

Dimensions (L x W x H)

82.3mm x 50.8mm x 22.86mm (3.24” x 2” x 0.9”)

Serial

Serial Outputs

RS-232

 Full support for Tx, Rx, CTS, RTS, DTR, and DTS signals
 Bi-directional communication with hardware handshaking

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RS-232 Mini Jack

 Full support for Tx, and Rx signals
 Bi-directional communication with hardware handshaking

RS-485
 Four wire (full duplex) and Two wire (half duplex) capable

Serial Configurations

 Baud Rate: 300 baud to 115200 baud
 Parity: Even, Odd, or None
 Stop Bits: 1 or 2

RS-232

 Flow Control: Enable hardware RTS/CTS flow control.
 Gender: Allows configuration of cable gender. Allows for null modem and

straight through cable creation.

RS-232 Mini Jack
 Gender: Allows for null modem and straight through cable creation.

RS-485

 Duplex: full duplex or half duplex
 RS-422 compatible

Cable/Connector

 3.5mm four conductor jack to HIVE-NODE-MINI

RS-232

 Male DB9 connector with locking screws
 Includes gender changer
 5ft (1.5m) cable

RS-232 Mini Jack

 Male 3.5mm mini jack stereo connector
 6.5ft (2m) cable

RS-485

 5-pin screw terminal block
 Connector at 90° angle for easy fit
 5ft (1.5m) cable

Dimensions (H x L x W)

55.9mm x 32.5mm x 15.2mm (2.2” x 1.28” x 0.6”)

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