SP Controls SmartPanel User Manual

SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I - INTRODUCTION

OVERVIEW.............................................................................................................................................1

IRST LOOK AT THE SMARTPANEL.......................................................................................................2

A F

WO FORM FACTORS TO FIT EVERY INSTALLATION..................................................................................3

Full-Size SmartPanel .......................................................................................................................3

Mini “Control-Only” SmartPanel.......................................................................................................3

EFORE INSTALLING THE SMARTPANEL...................................................................................................4

Using the Configuration Utility .........................................................................................................4

Outline of this Document .................................................................................................................4

PARTS LIST ...........................................................................................................................................5

INSTALLING THE CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE.............................................................................6

UNNING THE INSTALLATION PROGRAM ..................................................................................................6

ONNECTING THE PANEL TO YOUR COMPUTER........................................................................................6

PECIFYING A COM PORT.......................................................................................................................7

SING THE CONFIGURATION UTILITY.......................................................................................................8

HANGES MUST BE DOWNLOADED ..........................................................................................................9

The status bar ..................................................................................................................................9

Panel settings are retrieved by the Configuration Utility..................................................................9

How to download settings..............................................................................................................10

OWNLOAD-ONLY MODE .....................................................................................................................10

Manually placing the Panel in download-only mode .....................................................................11

Restoring normal operation after using download-only mode.......................................................11

PART II - CONFIGURING AND USING THE PANEL

PROJECTOR DRIVERS.......................................................................................................................13

ELECTING A PROJECTOR DRIVER........................................................................................................13

ROJECTOR DRIVER APPLICATION NOTES ............................................................................................14

ROJECTOR DRIVERS AND APPLICATION NOTES ON THE WEBSITE .........................................................15

INPUT SOURCE SELECTION AND INPUT MAPPING ......................................................................16

SING THE PANEL TO SELECT INPUT SOURCES .....................................................................................16

What input source selection does from the installer’s perspective................................................17

APPING PROJECTOR INPUTS ..............................................................................................................17

Why inputs must be mapped .........................................................................................................17

How to map inputs .........................................................................................................................17

A note on using relays to control an external switcher ..................................................................18

OORDINATING INPUT MAPPING WITH MODULES AND LEGENDS .............................................................19

Module Placement for the Large Chassis......................................................................................19

Auxiliary Patch Point Placement for the Small Chassis ................................................................20

Making it All Work Together...........................................................................................................20

HIDDEN FUNCTIONS ..........................................................................................................................22

HY FUNCTIONS ARE HIDDEN ...............................................................................................................22

APPING HIDDEN FUNCTIONS ..............................................................................................................23

Mapping No Hidden Function ........................................................................................................24

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Page ii SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide

PANEL AND PROJECTOR POWER .................................................................................................. 25

OWER CONTROLS AND INDICATION ..................................................................................................... 25

OWER STATES .................................................................................................................................. 25

Projector power is more complex than on and off......................................................................... 25

Projector Power States.................................................................................................................. 25

Panel vs. Projector Power ............................................................................................................. 26

OWER STATUS INDICATORS ............................................................................................................... 26

HE WARM-UP TIMER ......................................................................................................................... 27

HE LOCKOUT TIMER........................................................................................................................... 27

How the Lockout Timer affects users............................................................................................ 27

HE INACTIVITY SHUTDOWN TIMER....................................................................................................... 28

Configuring the Inactivity Shutdown Timer.................................................................................... 29

How the Inactivity Shutdown Timer affects users .........................................................................29

PROJECTOR POWER STATUS FEEDBACK.................................................................................... 31

How Power Status Feedback affects users ..................................................................................31

SING RS-232 POWER POLLING ......................................................................................................... 32

SING A POWER CURRENT SENSOR..................................................................................................... 32

OING WITHOUT POWER FEEDBACK ...................................................................................................... 32

VOLUME ..............................................................................................................................................34

OLUME CONTROLS AND INDICATION.................................................................................................... 34

Relative vs. absolute volume modes............................................................................................. 34

SING THE PROJECTOR’S SPEAKERS ................................................................................................... 35

SING THE AUDIO FOLLOW VIDEO PREAMPLIFIER ................................................................................. 35

When you need the Preamplifier................................................................................................... 36

What the Audio Follow Video Preamplifier does for you............................................................... 37

A functional description of the Audio Follow Video Preamplifier................................................... 37

ONFIGURING THE AUDIO FOLLOW VIDEO PREAMPLIFIER ...................................................................... 38

QUALIZATION..................................................................................................................................... 39

Defeating equalization................................................................................................................... 39

AIN................................................................................................................................................... 40

Defeating Gain (converting the Preamplifier into a switcher)........................................................ 41

IDEO SWITCHING WITH THE AUDIO FOLLOW VIDEO PREAMPLIFIER........................................................ 41

CONTROL WIRING OPTIONS ............................................................................................................ 42

ECIDING BETWEEN WIRED REMOTE AND THE IR EMITTER.................................................................... 42

Using wired remote ....................................................................................................................... 42

Using the included IR Emitter........................................................................................................ 42

HEN THE PANEL USES RS-232 AND WIRED REMOTE/IR ..................................................................... 43

Why the Panel uses both RS-232 and Wired Remote/IR ............................................................. 43

RELAYS ............................................................................................................................................... 44

OWER RELAYS ..................................................................................................................................44

ELECTION RELAYS............................................................................................................................. 47

MODULES AND LEGENDS ................................................................................................................49

EGENDS ............................................................................................................................................ 49

ELECTING AND ARRANGING MODULES OR AUXILIARY PATCH POINTS ................................................... 49

AUXILIARY PATCH POINTS ..............................................................................................................51

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page iii

PART III - ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION

SMARTPANEL ASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................53

NSERTING LEGENDS............................................................................................................................53

NSERTING THE MODULES ....................................................................................................................54

TTACHING THE AUDIO FOLLOW VIDEO PREAMPLIFIER (OPTIONAL) ........................................................55

SMARTPANEL INSTALLATION..........................................................................................................56

NSTALLING THE TERMINAL BLOCKS ......................................................................................................56

IRING PANEL POWER ........................................................................................................................57

IRING THE RELAYS ............................................................................................................................58

IRING PROJECTOR CONTROL.............................................................................................................59

RS-232...........................................................................................................................................59

Wired Remote/IR ...........................................................................................................................59

Current Sensor (optional) ..............................................................................................................59

IRING AUDIO TO THE AUDIO FOLLOW VIDEO PREAMPLIFIER (OPTIONAL) ..............................................60

NSTALLING THE SMARTPANEL IN A BACKBOX ........................................................................................61

PART IV - SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE .............................................................................................................62

SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................................................................70

CONTACTING SP CONTROLS...........................................................................................................71

WWW.SPCONTROLS.COM ......................................................................................................................71

USTOMER SUPPORT ...........................................................................................................................71

AILING ADDRESS ...............................................................................................................................71

WARRANTY .........................................................................................................................................72

COPYRIGHT INFORMATION ..............................................................................................................72

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Page iv SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide

INDEX OF TABLES, FIGURES AND EXAMPLES

TABLE 1: PARTS LIST ................................................................................................................................5

ABLE 2: PROJECTOR POWER STATES ..................................................................................................... 26

IGURE 1: FULL-SIZE SMARTPANEL WITH MODULES INSTALLED................................................................... 2

IGURE 2: THE MINI SMARTPANEL............................................................................................................. 2

IGURE 3: CONNECTING THE SMARTPANEL TO YOUR COMPUTER................................................................. 7

IGURE 4: SELECTING THE COM PORT ....................................................................................................... 7

IGURE 5: THE CONFIGURATION UTILITY .................................................................................................... 8

IGURE 6: PROJECTOR DRIVER SELECTION DIALOG .................................................................................. 13

IGURE 7: DRIVERS ON THE SP CONTROLS, INC. WEBSITE. ...................................................................... 16

IGURE 8: INPUT MAPPING AND CHANGING THE PROJECTOR DRIVER ......................................................... 16

IGURE 9: EXAMPLE COORDINATION OF INPUT MAPPING WITH MODULES AND LEGENDS ............................. 21

IGURE 10: HIDDEN FUNCTIONS .............................................................................................................. 23

IGURE 11: POWER CONTROLS AND INDICATION ....................................................................................... 25

IGURE 12: THE LOCKOUT AND INACTIVITY SHUTDOWN TIMERS ................................................................ 28

IGURE 13: POWER STATUS FEEDBACK AND CONTROL WIRING ................................................................. 31

IGURE 14: VOLUME CONTROL AND INDICATION........................................................................................ 34

IGURE 15: THE SP3-AFVP+ AUDIO FOLLOW VIDEO PREAMPLIFIER. ....................................................... 35

IGURE 16: FUNCTIONAL BLOCK DIAGRAM OF THE SP3-AFVP+ AUDIO FOLLOW VIDEO PREAMPLIFIER .......36

IGURE 17: CONFIGURING THE AUDIO FOLLOW VIDEO PREAMPLIFIER ....................................................... 38

IGURE 18: POWER RELAYS ....................................................................................................................44

IGURE 19: CONFIGURING RELAYS .......................................................................................................... 46

IGURE 20: SELECTION RELAYS............................................................................................................... 47

IGURE 21: SOME OF THE MODULES AVAILABLE ....................................................................................... 50

IGURE 22: AUXILIARY PATCH POINTS ON A FULL-SIZE PANEL................................................................... 51

IGURE 23: INSERTING LEGENDS............................................................................................................. 53

IGURE 24: ATTACHING THE MODULES. ................................................................................................... 54

IGURE 25: ATTACHING THE AUDIO FOLLOW VIDEO PREAMPLIFIER ........................................................... 55

IGURE 26: INSTALLING THE PHOENIX CONNECTOR TERMINAL BLOCKS....................................................... 56

IGURE 27: WIRING PANEL POWER.......................................................................................................... 57

IGURE 28: WIRING RELAYS ....................................................................................................................58

IGURE 29: WIRING PROJECTOR CONTROL............................................................................................... 59

IGURE 30: WIRING RCA AUDIO TO THE PREAMPLIFIER............................................................................ 60

IGURE 31: WIRING 1/8” AUDIO TO THE PREAMPLIFIER .............................................................................60

IGURE 32: INSTALLING THE SMARTPANEL IN A BACKBOX ......................................................................... 61

XAMPLE 1: SELECTING A PROJECTOR DRIVER ........................................................................................ 14

XAMPLE 2: MAPPING INPUTS ................................................................................................................. 19

XAMPLE 3: MAPPING HIDDEN FUNCTIONS .............................................................................................. 24

XAMPLE 4: CONFIGURING THE LOCKOUT TIMER ...................................................................................... 28

XAMPLE 5: CONFIGURING THE INACTIVITY SHUTDOWN TIMER.................................................................. 30

XAMPLE 6: ADJUSTING EQUALIZATION SETTINGS .................................................................................... 40

XAMPLE 7: ADJUSTING GAIN SETTINGS .................................................................................................. 41

XAMPLE 8: USING A POWER RELAY FOR SCREEN CONTROL.................................................................... 45

XAMPLE 9: USING THE SELECTION RELAYS WITH AN EXTERNAL SWITCHER .............................................. 48

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 1

PART I - INTRODUCTION

Overview

Welcome to the world of the SmartPanel, the perfect control system for small projector installations.

The SmartPanel is the right choice for permanent single projector installations because it is costeffective and easy to configure.

The Panel provides users with a simple, reliable way to control a projector.

x Unlike a remote control, the Panel is never lost, pointed the wrong way, or in need of

batteries. The Panel replaces cryptic feature names and menus of rarely used functions with simple, point-of-connection controls.

x Users are always provided with feedback about the status of the projector. x The control system behavior is simple and uniform, regardless of projector model. Once

familiar with the Panel, users can control different projector models at the same site with no additional training.

The Panel provides installers with a pre-programmed and easily configured solution to simple control tasks.

x Modules provide high quality patch points for common projector sources. x The Panel’s modular design and two form factors allows it to be custom tailored for every

installation.

x Configurable relays are provided to control common external devices such as switchers

and powered screens.

x No programming is necessary, only configuration with an easy-to-use Windows™ utility. All

the software needed to configure the Panel is included, and updates and additional utilities are provided on the SP Controls website.

This guide gives you everything you need to successfully install and configure the SmartPanel. All we assume is that you are familiar with the projector you’ve chosen, and that you have done small projector installations before.

From all of us at SP Controls, thanks for your interest and business. We hope that the SmartPanel makes your job easier by simplifying installations, while satisfying your end users on all fronts – cost, ease of use, and reliability.

Note: The SmartPanel is not a switcher; it is strictly a control system. Your design should rely on

switching built into your projector or external switchers.

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Page 2 SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide

OFF

A First Look at the SmartPanel

Selection buttons are removable

if you have less than four inputs

Backlit Legends

Legends indicate current

selection with installer-

(example configuration shown)

Selection Buttons

chosen labels

Patch Modules

COMPUTER 1

Audio

DOCUMENT

CAMERA

Power Control IR Learning Window

Projector

Ready

Warm-up

Audio

COMPUTER 2

MacintoshVGA

Audio

AUXILIARY

VIDEO

Video

Audio

Figure 1: Full-size SmartPanel (SP2-CHAS) with Modules installed

Selection buttons are removable if

Selection Buttons

you have less than four inputs

Legends indicate current selection with

COMPUTER 1

Backlit Legends

installer-chosen labels

DOCUMENT

CAMERA

Power Control

COMPUTER 2 AUXILIARY VIDEO

OFF

Volume

Warm-up

Ready

(for future use)

VolumeProjector

Volume Control

Auxiliary Patch Points

Lucent Tech. M100 series Escutcheon

IR Learning Window

(for future use)

Volume Control

Figure 2: The Mini SmartPanel (SP2-SMCHAS)

The assembled SmartPanels shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2 demonstrate the following features:

x Four selection buttons control projector input switching. x Power buttons control projector power. The user is given feedback of the projector’s

status by a pair of LEDs. The Panel uses RS-232 or current sensors to remain in sync with projectors.

x Volume buttons control volume, which is indicated on an LED bar graph. An optional

Audio Follow Video Preamplifier is available for use with external audio solutions, such

as self-powered speakers.

x Back-lit Legends are readable in any light. Legends appropriate for each installation are

chosen and inserted by the installer. Custom Legends can be prepared.

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 3

Our goal was elegant and straightforward design. We hope that we succeeded and that you find the Panel intuitive to use.

Two Form Factors to Fit Every Installation

The SmartPanel comes in two form factors to fit every installation and budget.

Full-Size SmartPanel

The assembled SmartPanel in Figure 1 is configurable with four Modules and three Auxiliary Modules. The Modules provide point-of-control connection for portable projector sources, such

as laptops, so users can patch in and control the system at the same location.

Modules are chosen, ordered and attached by the installer. Selection-only Modules (with no patch points) are available for permanently installed devices, and blanks are available for installations that have fewer than four input devices.

Note: Facing the front of the Panel, the leftmost Module is “input one,” and the rightmost “input

four”.

Mini “Control-Only” SmartPanel

The Mini SmartPanel is an elegant, small-footprint alternative for installations where space or aesthetics are at a premium. The Mini SmartPanel provides the same comprehensive control over projectors as the full-size Panel, without integrated patch points. Auxiliary Patch Points can be integrated when the Panel is mounted in a drawer (SBL-1050B) or rack (SP2-RACKSM- MOD).

The Mini SmartPanel is available in several finishes to match any décor.

Note: Unless otherwise noted, instructions and directions apply to both form factors. The full-size

SmartPanel and control-only SmartPanel are identical from a configuration and wiring perspective. Only the facia differs.

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Page 4 SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide

Before Installing the SmartPanel

Before you assemble, configure and install the SmartPanel, review this documentation. Informed configuration decisions make your installation go smoothly and ensure that the Panel is easy for clients to use.

Using the Configuration Utility

The SmartPanel is configured using the included Configuration Utility (for Windows™). The Utility lets you tailor the Panel’s control of your projector for your installation.

Outline of this Document

Part I - Introduction continues with a review of the packing list of the Panel and a guide to installing and using the Configuration Utility.

Part II - Configuring and Using the Panel discusses the features of the Panel. Controls and features are defined. Examples demonstrate common configuration changes with the Configuration Utility.

Assembly and wiring of the Panel are described in Part III - Assembly and Installation.

Part IV - Supporting Documentation provides a troubleshooting guide and standard disclaimers and contact information.

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 5

PARTS LIST

Before reading further, you should review the following packing list to familiarize yourself with the SmartPanel and its component parts. Verify that the complete Panel package and any optional accessories you ordered were shipped.

SmartPanel Chassis

Power supply Legends

IR emitter

8 Self-tapping 6-32 screws Configuration and Installation Guide SmartPanel Configuration Utility

OPTIONAL COMPONENTS – included only if ordered.

Modules (4)

(SP2-CHAS)

Audio Follow Video Preamplifier

The control unit and Module frame itself. Includes one projector control RS-232 port, one RS-232 configuration port, one Wired Remote/Infrared port, one power sensor input, and seven low voltage relays. 12V 600mA DC regulated Pre-printed Legends to be inserted beneath each Module, each describing an input (e.g., COMPUTER 1, DOCUMENT CAMERA, etc.). Blanks are included. The matching font is TrueType™ Impact. Dual blink type emitter to be affixed to the projector’s IR window. The emitter glows red while emitting IR to aid troubleshooting.

Note: When the Panel is configured for Wired Remote, the emitter is not used. For mounting the SmartPanel into a backbox (not included). Only four screws

are needed but extras are provided. This document.

CD-ROM containing Windows™ Configuration Utility software and a suite of Drivers for popular projector models. The Utility allows you to configure how the Panel controls the projector.

Note: To use this software you need an RS-232 cable (standard male 9-pin to female). This cable is not included.

The exact Modules accompanying your Panel are specified at the time of order. Arrangement on the chassis is determined by the installer at the time of assembly. Note: Modules are only needed with the full-size SmartPanel. Accessory provides switching and preamplification for all Panel inputs. A video switching section provides additional video inputs for installations requiring more video inputs than the projector supplies. The Preamplifier can be configured to set gain and/or bass and treble equalization for each channel.

Note: The Preamplifier is not needed if the projector’s internal speakers and internal volume control are used.

Rack mount kit

Auxiliary Patch Points

(SP2-SMCHAS with SP2-RACKSM-MOD or SLB-1050B)

Table 1: Parts list

Accessory kits allow the Panel to be mounted in a standard 19” rack. The SP2-CHAS rack mount occupies five rack units. The SP2-SMCHAS rack mount occupies two rack units.

The exact Auxiliary Patch Points accompanying your Panel are specified at the time of order. Arrangement on the chassis is determined by the installer at the time of assembly.

Note: Auxiliary Patch Points are needed with the control-only SmartPanel only when it is mounted in Modular Rack Mount (SP2-RACKSM-MOD) or Slide Out Drawer (SLB-1050B).

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Page 6 SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide

INSTALLING THE CONFIGURATION SOFTWARE

After unpacking the SmartPanel, you should install the included Configuration Utility software and verify that you can communicate with the Panel.

The Configuration Utility requires Windows 95™ or later. Make sure you have an 9-pin male to 9-pin female RS-232 cable (wired straight through), which is not included. This cable connects your computer to the Panel’s Configuration Port (upper left, Panel rear).

Running the Installation Program

To install the Configuration Utility software, insert the Utility CD-ROM into your floppy drive and run the Setup program found on that disk. This program installs the Utility on your computer. By default, the Utility and its accompanying files (e.g., projector drivers and their application note) are placed in the

\Program Files\SPC\

directory on your main hard disk (usually C:). A shortcut to the Utility is placed in your Windows

Start button menu as Start: Programs: SmartPanel Utilities: SmartPanel Configuration Utility.

Connecting the Panel to your Computer

To configure the Panel, you must supply it with power and connect it to your PC (a laptop is convenient), as shown in Figure 3.

Power should be supplied to the Panel with the included 12VDC regulated power supply. When powered, all of the lights on the Panel rapidly flash in sequence as it runs through a power-on self-test. If this self-test does not occur, make sure you have correctly powered the unit (see Wiring Panel Power or the Troubleshooting Guide if necessary).

Connect the Panel to your computer by attaching the male 9-pin end of your RS-232 cable (not included) to the Panel’s Configuration Port. Attach the female end of the cable to any free Com Port on your computer.

Note: It is your responsibility to make sure that the Com Port you are using is enabled and

configured correctly. You don’t need to worry about communications settings (e.g., baud rate), but you do need to make sure that the communication port you wish to connect through has not been disabled at the hardware level (if you have used the Com Port before for other applications, you should have no problems).

Note: It is not necessary to disconnect the Panel from the projector to run the Configuration

Utility.

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 7

500mA MAX. CURRENT

CONFIGURATION

PORT

AUDIO FOLLOW VIDEO SWITCHER EXPANSION

ACCESSORY

BUS

To Com Port

on PC

RS-232 Cable

not included

(DB9 Male to Female - straight through)

RS232 IR/SERIAL

CTS

RTS

GND

PWR

OFF

MOM.

MAINT.

IR/SER

SENSE

3A3B2A

+12V

GND

12VDC Regulated Power Supply

included

SELECTION

(EXT. SWITCHER CTRL)

4321

ONLY"

CAUTION

"INDOOR USE

Figure 3: Connecting the SmartPanel to your computer

Specifying a Com Port

Before configuring the SmartPanel you must specify the Com Port you are using to connect to it.

POWERRELAYSPROJECTOR CONTROL

6A6B5A

GND

+12V DC

Figure 4: Selecting the Com Port

When you run the Configuration Utility for the first time the dialog shown in Figure 4 will appear. Select the Com Port you are using and press OK.

Note: The dialog does not allow you to select a Com Port that is

disabled or being used by another program.

The Utility remembers the port selected and uses it in subsequent sessions. If you later attach to the Panel through a different port, change the active port with the Configuration Utility’s Communications pulldown.

After a Com Port is selected, the Utility should appear as shown in

Figure 5.

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Page 8 SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide

Tabs switch between sets of settings

Changes Projector Drivers to support your projector

Name of loaded Projector Driver

Input mapping section

Downloads settings changes to the Panel

Download progress indicator

Panel firmware revision

Status of Panel connection

Active Com port

information

Figure 5: The Configuration Utility

Using the Configuration Utility

The Configuration Utility configures your SmartPanel to work with your projector and lets you tailor its behavior for your installation. Panel configuration consists of:

x selecting a Projector Driver, x setting configuration options, and x downloading changes to the Panel.

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 9

Changes must be downloaded

Changes made with the Utility are not sent to the Panel until you hit the Download Settings button. Do not expect to see any changes in Panel behavior until changed settings are downloaded to the Panel.

The status bar

The status bar at the bottom of the Utility window provides feedback on the current state of the Utility (and Panel, if it is connected and detected).

The first field, farthest to the left, identifies which Com Port the Utility is using to connect to the Panel.

The second field from the left indicates the Panel’s connection status, as follows:

x Panel Present indicates that the RS-232 cable is correctly connected to the Panel. x Connected indicates that the RS-232 cable is connected to a device, but that it does not

appear to be a SmartPanel (this can happen if the Panel is connected but not powered).

x Not Connected indicates that the RS-232 cable does not appear to be connected to any

device.

Note: When the Configuration Utility does not detect any Panel on the active Com Port the

Download Settings button is disabled.

The rightmost field provides feedback on any download in progress. The remaining fields display version information about the attached Panel. These fields are discussed in the sections that follow.

Panel settings are retrieved by the Configuration Utility

The Utility retrieves the current settings of any Panel connected to the computer.

When the connected Panel’s current settings are retrieved, the third and fourth fields in the status bar display the firmware and memory format revision numbers of the Panel for customer support use.

After Panel settings are retrieved, the Utility opens the Projector Driver file last downloaded to the Panel. If this Driver is not in the directory into which the Utility was installed, a dialog labeled Open Proj File will appear and prompt you to find the Driver (.prj) file.

If you know where this file is, identify it. If it is not available (for example, because the Panel was originally configured with a different computer), press Cancel.

Once Panel settings are retrieved you can examine and modify them as described in Part II -

Configuring and Using the Panel.

Note: Do not change configuration settings when no Panel is connected, or before Panel settings

are retrieved. Changes made before connecting the Panel (or before the Panel is recognized by the Utility) will be overwritten if existing settings are retrieved.

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Page 10 SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide

How to download settings

Configuration changes are saved to the Panel with the Download Settings button, found in the lower right corner of the Configuration Utility. Downloading is only possible after the Panel is correctly connected and its existing settings have been retrieved.

While downloading the cursor becomes an hourglass, and a bar graph indicator (at the lower right of the Utility) flushes to indicate progress. Downloading should take no more than thirty seconds.

After a successful download, the Panel resets itself. Changes are effective as soon as a download finishes and the Panel resets. If for some reason the Panel does not reset, you should download again.

Occasionally, communications may fail during downloading. If any errors occur during download, try downloading again. If you are unable to successfully download, make sure the Panel has been detected.

If you never successfully download, put the Panel in download-only mode as described below.

Note: Future revisions of the Configuration Utility software will allow users to save copies of

Panel configuration settings on the PC, but this is not supported in the initial release. Check the SP Controls website for new versions.

Note: The AFVP tab of the Utility is active only when an Audio Follow Video Preamplifier is

connected to the Panel. The Panel automatically detects whether a Preamplifier is present.

Download-Only Mode

The SmartPanel has a download-only mode to ensure it can always be configured or updated. In this mode, the Panel does not communicate with the projector allowed while the Panel is in download-only mode is the downloading of configuration or driver changes.

Download-only mode allows reconfiguration of the Panel should configuration memory become corrupted. Reconfiguration is essential in these cases, as corrupt memory disrupts control of the projector and may in rare cases cause serious Panel behavior problems such as “freezing.”

When in download-only mode the Panel the red Warm-Up indicator LED blinks continuously while the Panel is on

The Panel automatically places itself in download-only mode if it detects any of a variety of special conditions, such as corrupted configuration memory, or firmware compatibility problems.

. The only communication

RS-232 power polling is suspended while the Panel is in download only mode.

Blinking of the Warm-Up indicator when the Panel is off indicates that the projector is cooling;

see The Lockout Timer.

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 11

Manually placing the Panel in download-only mode

The Panel is manually placed in download-only mode by pressing and holding the On, Off and Selection Four buttons while applying power. This combination of keys was chosen because it is

unlikely to occur by accident.

Manual activation of download-only mode facilitates reconfiguration should serious corruption of configuration memory occur.

Restoring normal operation after using download-only mode

Download-only mode is exited by removing and restoring power to the Panel.

If download-only mode was entered automatically because a problem was detected by Panel firmware self checks, that problem must be remedied before the Panel will function normally. In most cases, re-downloading the appropriate Driver and configuration restores normal operation.

If the Panel is unable to complete a download session in download-only mode, or persists in automatically entering the mode whenever powered on, it may have developed hardware problems and require service.

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Page 12 SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 13

PART II - CONFIGURING AND USING THE PANEL

PROJECTOR DRIVERS

Selecting a Projector Driver

Projector Drivers contain information on the behavior, control requirements, and features of each projector the SmartPanel can control. The Panel uses Drivers to control different projectors and other display devices.

Drivers are distributed as .prj files. Drivers for several popular projectors are installed with the Configuration Utility during setup. New and updated Drivers are available at the SP Controls website (see Contacting SP Controls). The Panel is configured with a Driver at the factory

Note: We assume you verified that a Driver was available for your projector before designing for

and purchasing a SmartPanel. However, new Drivers do become available as projectors enter the market.

To configure the Panel to work with your projector, change Drivers as follows:

x Connect your PC to the Panel and install the Configuration Utility as described above. x Run the Utility and wait for the Panel to be detected and its settings retrieved. x Press the Change Projector Driver button in Projector Selection (as shown in Figure 8).

An Open Proj File dialog will appear as shown in Figure 6.

Figure 6: Projector Driver selection dialog

When this manual was written, the Panel was shipped configured for the Sharp XG-E3000U.

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Page 14 SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide

The dialog opens on the directory into which the Utility was installed (by default, \Program Files\SPC\). This directory is where Drivers are installed during Utility setup. When you

download new drivers from the website, you should place them in this directory.

Select a Driver from the list and press Open. The new Driver is loaded into the Utility, which should then display the Driver’s default settings. The new Driver and settings are not sent to the Panel until you download.

Press Cancel if you decide not to load a Driver. Current settings will remain unchanged.

Note: Changing the Projector Driver does not affect settings for relays or the Audio Follow

Video Preamplifier.

Example 1: Selecting a Projector Driver

In this example, you configure your Panel with the Sharp XG-E1200U Driver.

To configure the Panel in this manner:

x connect the Panel to your computer and run the Configuration Utility; x wait for current Panel settings to be retrieved; x make sure the Projector Selection tab is showing; x click the Change Projector Driver button; x in the dialog that appears, select the Driver named Sharp XG-E1200U, as shown in

Figure 64;

x press the Open button; x wait for the Driver file to load into the Utility, as shown in Figure 8; x optionally, adjust configuration settings as necessary; x download the new settings by clicking Download Settings.

The Panel will now send control commands and use timers appropriate to the Sharp XG-E1200U.

Projector Driver Application Notes

Every Projector Driver has a Projector Driver Application Note. This document describes:

x the default configuration settings specified by the Driver, x requirements for wiring to and controlling the projector (e.g., RS-232 cable pinouts), and x any known problems with the projector, or side effects of using specific features.

Always read the Application Note for tips and advice on using the Panel with the supported projector. We put our time into the Application Notes so you don’t waste yours learning every detail of every projector.

Note: When you select a Driver and open it, the Driver’s default configuration is loaded, even if

the Panel is already configured for that Driver. This allows you to restore a Driver’s default

settings.

The Drivers listed in the dialog vary depending on which Drivers you have installed.

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 15

Projector Drivers and Application Notes on the Website

SP Controls, Inc. is continually creating and updating Drivers. New projector models are released, the Panel is installed to control legacy projectors, and existing Drivers are improved as we receive feedback from installations in the field.

To get the latest Drivers and their Application Notes, visit the SP Controls, Inc. website at:

http://www.spcontrols.com

At the site, visit the Downloads and Support section, and select Projector Drivers. Instructions for downloading and installing Drivers and Application Notes are available on the site itself.

You can also download the Configuration Utility, this Guide, and other useful documents.

Note: Always check the website for new and updated Drivers before doing an installation!

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Figure 7: The latest Drivers are always available on the SP Controls, Inc. website

INPUT SOURCE SELECTION AND INPUT MAPPING

Change Projector Driver

Loads Drivers to control different projectors

Input Mapping Section

Configures commands sent to the projector when selection buttons are pressed

Figure 8: Input Mapping and changing the Projector Driver

Using the Panel to Select Input Sources

The SmartPanel makes changing the projected input source easy and intuitive.

To change the projector source, press one of the Panel’s four selection buttons.

Note: The SmartPanel is not a switcher; it is a control system. The Panel controls input source

selection by directing the projector to switch between the projector’s inputs, or by controlling external switchers with its selection relays.

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 17

What input source selection does from the installer’s perspective

The projector (and any external switcher) is controlled with the four selection buttons.

When a selection button is pressed, the Panel:

x sends a command to the projector, telling it to switch inputs; x opens and closes selection relays on the Panel to control third-party switchers x brightens the appropriate Legend to show the new selection.

This section explains how these behaviors are configured.

; and

Mapping Projector Inputs

Input mapping is the process of configuring the Panel to send the projector particular input source selection commands when selection buttons are pressed.

For a discussion of coordinating input mapping with selection relays controlling external switchers, see the end of this section (a complete treatment is found in Selection Relays).

Why inputs must be mapped

The command sent when a selection button is pushed must be configured because there is no fixed relationship between the Panel’s selection buttons and the projector’s inputs.

We could have made selection button one always switch the projector Video, and selection button two correspond to RGB, but this was a bad idea.

This is true because:

x different projectors have different numbers and different types of inputs, not to mention

different conventions on how sources are labeled and selected;

x the large SmartPanel Modules are designed to be arranged in any order, while the

selection buttons occupy fixed locations on the Panel;

x every installation has different input source devices to switch between; and x several selectable sources may use the same input at the projector, and be switched by a

third-party switcher.

How to map inputs

The Configuration Utility allows you to specify which of a projector’s inputs is switched to when each selection button is pressed.

As shown in Figure 6, each selection button is graphically associated with a projector input. The input associated with, or mapped to, a particular selection button is shown in the box called out for that button. The input displayed for each selection button is the one the projector is instructed to switch to when that button is pressed.

The Audio Follow Video Preamplifier provides is configurable to provide 4x1 composite video or

2x1 S-Video switching . See Video Switching with the Audio Follow Video Preamplifier.

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To change a button’s input mapping, click the input box associated with it. A list of the projector’s built-in inputs appears in the form of a pulldown list box. Inputs vary by projector model; for a list of the inputs available on a specific model of projector, see the Projector Driver Application Note that accompanies the projector’s Driver.

The input list is identical for each of the four buttons. Any button can be mapped to any projector input.

Note: A button can be mapped to any input regardless of how the other buttons are mapped.

When more than one button is mapped to the same projector input, an external switcher must be used to switch between source devices; the Panel’s selection relays can control this switcher.

Note: The Modules shown on the Configuration Utility panel graphic do not change during

input mapping. There is no fixed correspondence between projector inputs and Modules.

A note on using relays to control an external switcher

External switchers are commonly used when multiple input sources are mapped to a single projector input. We assume you are familiar with using switchers in this fashion.

The SmartPanel can control external switchers (such as those manufactured by Altinex™) with its configurable, low-voltage selection relays. These relays close according to the active selection and can be configured for either momentary or maintained closure.

See Selection Relays below for specifics on how to use selection relays to control an external switcher.

Note: An external switcher may be unnecessary when using the Audio Follow Video

Preamplifier, as it provides 4x1 composite video or 2x1 S-Video switching. See Video Switching with the Audio Follow Video Preamplifier.

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SmartPanel Configuration and Installation Guide Page 19

Example 2: Mapping Inputs

In this example, you configure your Panel input mappings for an installation using a Sharp XGE1200U. You map input one to RGB 1, input three to RGB 2, and inputs two and four to VIDEO as shown in Figure 8.

Since this installation uses two video sources and the Sharp has only one video input, we’ll assume you’re using an external switcher or the Audio Follow Video Preamplifier to switch video before it reaches the projector’s VIDEO in. We also assume that the Panel has been configured with the Sharp XG-E1200U.prj Driver as shown in Example 1.

To configure the Panel in this manner:

x connect the Panel to your computer and run the Configuration Utility; x wait for current Panel settings to be retrieved; x select the Projector Selection tab; x click in the Input One list box; from the list that appears, select RGB 1; x click in the Input Two list box; from the list that appears, select VIDEO; x click in the Input Three list box; from the list that appears, select RGB 2; x click in the Input Four list box; from the list that appears, select VIDEO; x download the new settings by clicking Download Settings.

The Panel’s selection buttons one and three will now make the Sharp switch to its RGB 1 and RBG 2 inputs respectively. Selection buttons two and four will now both make the Sharp switch to the input wired to VIDEO.

Figure 9 shows how a Panel with inputs mapped in this fashion might be assembled.

Coordinating Input Mapping with Modules and Legends

The following elements must be kept consistent while configuring and assembling your Panel:

x the projector input mapped to each button, x the Modules installed – their type and order, x the Legend inserted for each Panel button, and x the selection relays settings that control any external switcher.

Module Placement for the Large Chassis

We assume that if you are using the full-size SmartPanel (SP2-CHAS), you already have the Modules for your installation. A discussion of Modules is included in Modules and Legends, below.

Module arrangement is a decision you and your client make together. We strongly recommend discussing the arrangement of Modules with your clients – especially those that will actually use the Panel – before installation.

There is no “default” or “standard” order for Modules, since every installation has different users, devices, and Modules.

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