Xantech MRAUDIO8X8M, MRC88M User Manual

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

MODEL MRC88m

MODEL MRAUDIO8x8m

EIGHT ZONE – EIGHT SOURCE

AUDIO & AUDIO/VIDEO CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER SYSTEMS

Page: 2 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS - READ BEFORE OPERATING EQUIPMENT

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equil ateral tria ngle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of un-insulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

WARNING

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

This product was designed and manufactured to meet strict quality and safety standards. There a re, ho wever, some installation and operation precautions, which you should be particularly aware of.

1. Read Instructions – All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the appliance is operated.

2. Retain Instructions – The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.

3. Heed Warnings – All warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

4. Follow Instructions – All operating and use instructions should be followed.

5. Water and Moisture – The appliance should not be used near water – for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, etc.

6. Carts and Stands – The appliance should be used only with a cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer. An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn.

7. Wall or Ceiling Mounting – The appliance should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.

8. Ventilation – The appliance should be situated so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, the appliance should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block the ventilation openings; or, placed in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through the ventilation openings.

9. Heat – The appliance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

10. Power Sources – The appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.

11. Grounding or Polarization – Precautions should be taken so that the grounding or polarization means of an appliance is not defeated.

12. Power-Cord Protection – Power- supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance.

13. Cleaning – The appliance should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.

14. Power Lines – An outdoor antenna should be located away from the power lines.

15. Nonuse Periods – The power cord of the appliance should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time.

16. Object and Liquid Entry – Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings.

17. Damage Requiring Service – The appliance should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:

A. The Power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has spilled into the appliance; or C. The appliance has been exposed to rain; or D. The appliance does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance; or E. The appliance has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.

18. Servicing – The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS - READ BEFORE OPERATING EQUIPMENT.............................................................2

TABLE OF CONTENTS...................................................................................................................................................3

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION & FEATURES............................................................. 8

GENERAL INFORMATION ...........................................................................................................................................8

SYSTEM OVERVIEW....................................................................................................................................................10

CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER FEATURES .................................................................................................................11

KEYPAD FEATURES.....................................................................................................................................................12

MRC88M CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER PANEL AND FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS............................................13

MRC88M FRONT PANEL FEATURES AND CONNECTIONS:........................................................................13

MRC88M REAR PANEL FEATURES AND CONNECTIONS:..........................................................................15

MRC88M KEYPAD FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS.......................................................................................................17

MRC88M KEYPAD - FRONT FEATURES:...................................................................................................17

MRC88M KEYPAD - REAR FEATURES AND CONNECTIONS:.....................................................................19

SECTION 2: INSTALLATION & CONNECTIONS ......................................................................20

INSTALLATION.............................................................................................................................................................20

OPERATION: OUT-OF-THE-BOX PRE TEST.........................................................................................20

MRC88M CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER PHYSICAL LOCATION AND MOUNTING........................21

MRC88M KEYPAD PHYSICAL LOCATION AND MOUNTING........................................................22

MRC88M KEYPAD REMOVAL.............................................................................................................24

CONNECTING THE MRC88M CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER.................................................................................25

SOURCE RELATED CONNECTIONS ............................................................................................................25

Source Component Connections................................................................................................................. 25

Zone Audio Inputs....................................................................................................................................... 26

IR Control Connections............................................................................................................................... 26

Sense Input Connections............................................................................................................................. 26

ZONE RELATED WIRING CONNECTIONS...................................................................................................27

Speaker Connections................................................................................................................................... 27

MRC88m Keypad CAT5 Cable Connections at the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier................................. 28

Video Connections (MRC88m Only).......................................................................................................... 28

Status Connections and Common Control Out............................................................................................28

Preamp Out.................................................................................................................................................. 29

CO1 and CO2 (Zones 7 & 8)....................................................................................................................... 29

Zone IR........................................................................................................................................................ 29

AC Power Connections............................................................................................................................... 29

CONNECTIONS AT THE ZONE LOCATION ..................................................................................................30

Keypad Connections and Jumper Settings.................................................................................................. 30

ZONE EXPANSION (CONNECTING TWO MRC88M CONTROLLERS) ..........................................................31

Linking Two MRC88m Controller/Amplifier Units...................................................................................31

Connecting Source Components................................................................................................................. 31

Speaker Connections................................................................................................................................... 33

Video connections....................................................................................................................................... 33

SETTING-UP THE MRC88M SYSTEM........................................................................................................................34

SECTION 3: PRE-PROGRAMMING THE MRC88M................................................................... 35

PLANNING THE SYSTEM............................................................................................................................................36

INSTALLING AND CONFIGURING THE DRAGMRC SOFTWARE ......................................................................36

COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS (MINIMUM) ..................................................................................................36

INCLUDED HARDWARE & SOFTWARE ITEMS ...........................................................................................37

CONNECTING THE MRC88M CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER TO THE PC........................................................37

Page: 4 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

DB9 Serial Connection ................................................................................................................................37

USB Serial Connection................................................................................................................................37

SOFTWARE INSTALLATION....................................................................................................................... 37

STARTING MRC88M DRAGON DROP-IR™ SOFTWARE...........................................................................37

SERIAL PORT SELECTION.........................................................................................................................37

VERIFYING COM PORT COMMUNICATION.............................................................................................38

(“WHO AM I” BASE UNIT VERSION VERIFICATION)................................................................................ 38

STARTING A PROJECT ...............................................................................................................................................38

LEARNING IR COMMANDS (CREATING PALETTE FILES)........................................................................................39

BUILT-IN IR CODE LIBRARY....................................................................................................................39

Testing IR Commands in the IR Library......................................................................................................39

LEARNING IR COMMANDS .......................................................................................................................40

Using the Palette Editor ...............................................................................................................................40

Recording Toggle Command Functions ......................................................................................................41

Editing Function Names in the Palette Editor..............................................................................................41

TO RENAME AN EXISTING FUNCTION ......................................................................................................42

Testing IR Commands in the Palette Editor.................................................................................................42

CREATING A PALETTE FILE......................................................................................................................42

EDITING BRAND, COMPONENT, AND FUNCTION LISTS ......................................................................... 43

Adding Brands.............................................................................................................................................43

Adding Components and Functions.............................................................................................................43

GETTING SOURCE COMMANDS FROM THE INTERNET ............................................................................. 43

Xantech.com ................................................................................................................................................43

Remote Central.com (Importing CCF Files and Discrete IR Comm ands)...................................................43

ENTERING RS232 COMMANDS (CREATING RS232 COMMAND PALETTE FILES)...................................................45

ENTERING RS232 COMMAND STRINGS....................................................................................................45

Using the RS232 Palette Editor....................................................................................................................45

Testing RS232 Command Strings................................................................................................................46

CREATING AN RS232 PALETTE FILE........................................................................................................47

SECTION 4: PROGRAMMING THE CONTROLLER................................................................. 48

CONFIGURING SOURCE ICONS ON MRC88M KEYPAD LCD.............................................................................48

ENTERING TEXT DIRECTLY ONTO THE ICONS..........................................................................................49

CREATING NEW ICONS.............................................................................................................................49

SELECTING ICONS FROM THE ICON GENERATOR.................................................................................. 49

DOWNLOADING SOURCE ICONS TO THE KEYPAD .....................................................................................49

PLACING COMMANDS ONTO THE VIRTUAL KEYPAD .....................................................................................50

SELECTING IR PALETTES FROM THE IR CODE LIBRARY..........................................................................50

SELECTING IR PALETTES ......................................................................................................................... 50

SELECTING RS232 COMMAND PALETTES................................................................................................ 50

SELECTING INTERNAL AMPLIFIER COMMANDS....................................................................................... 50

PLACING COMMANDS ON THE VIRTUAL KEYPAD................................................................................... 50

Programming Sequences (Macros)..............................................................................................................51

Timed Delays...............................................................................................................................................51

Repeat Commands.......................................................................................................................................52

Push & Hold (Tiered) Commands................................................................................................................52

EDITING BUTTONS (ON THE VIRTUAL KEYPAD)..................................................................................... 52

Delete Key ...................................................................................................................................................53

Delete Bank (Zone Level)............................................................................................................................53

Delete All (System Level)............................................................................................................................53

Punch (Zone Level)......................................................................................................................................53

Punch All (System Level)............................................................................................................................53

Copy.............................................................................................................................................................53

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 5

Paste ............................................................................................................................................................ 53

EDITING COMMANDS (IN THE MACRO COMMAND LIST WINDOW) .........................................................53

IR In Zone................................................................................................................................................... 54

Source Output.............................................................................................................................................. 54

Delete .......................................................................................................................................................... 55

Testing Commands Placed on the Virtual Keypad...................................................................................... 55

PROGRAMMING POWER MANAGEMENT AND SENSE TRIGGER CODES....................................................55

PROGRAMMING POWER MANAGEMENT ...................................................................................................55

PROGRAMMING SENSE TRIGGER CODES ..................................................................................................57

Programming of Sense input....................................................................................................................... 57

Polarity and Wiring of Sense Input............................................................................................................. 58

Current Sense De-Bounce Settings ............................................................................................................. 58

TESTING COMMANDS UNDER POWER MANAGEMENT AND SENSE TRIGGERS .........................................58

ZONE OPTIONS CONFIGURATION..........................................................................................................................59

DEFAULT SETTINGS SET IN BASIC MODE ARE AS FOLLOWS: ..................................................................59

NAME OF ZONE ........................................................................................................................................59

RC68 CODE GROUP...............................................................................................................................59

PRE AMP VOLUME ADJUST SETTINGS......................................................................................................60

IR LOOP BACK SETTINGS .........................................................................................................................60

TRANSFERRING THE PROJECT...............................................................................................................................61

SECTION 5: ADVANCED/EXPANDED PROGRAMMING ........................................................ 62

CONTROLLER OPTIONS PROGRAMMING...........................................................................................................62

ZONE AUDIO INPUT ..................................................................................................................................62

IR ROUTING..............................................................................................................................................63

BACK-LIGHT CONTROL.............................................................................................................................63

MODE OF OPERATION ..............................................................................................................................63

Whole House Mode..................................................................................................................................... 63

Priority Lockout Mode................................................................................................................................ 63

EXPANDED OPTIONS.................................................................................................................................63

Not Expanded.............................................................................................................................................. 63

Expanded..................................................................................................................................................... 63

RS232 SETTINGS.......................................................................................................................................64

Baud Rate, Data Bits, Stop Bits amd Parity Settings .................................................................................. 64

Process RS232 Input ................................................................................................................................... 64

MONITOR LOCKOUT MODE ......................................................................................................................64

Dynamic Monitor Lockout (Administrator)................................................................................................ 65

ZONE LINKING PROGRAMMING.............................................................................................................................66

STATIC ZONE LINK MODE ........................................................................................................................66

DYNAMIC ZONE LINK MODE....................................................................................................................67

LINK ALL DYNAMIC .................................................................................................................................68

LINK ALL STATIC .....................................................................................................................................68

CLEAR ALL ...............................................................................................................................................68

RS232 INPUT TRANSLATOR.......................................................................................................................................68

PROGRAMMING IR COMMANDS AND SEQUENCES....................................................................................69

Selecting IR Palettes from the IR Code Library.......................................................................................... 69

Selecting IR Palettes.................................................................................................................................... 69

Associating RS232 Commands with IR Control Codes.............................................................................. 69

Editing Individual Commands..................................................................................................................... 69

Testing Commands in the RS232 Input Translator..................................................................................... 69

RC68+ IR CODE TRIGGERED SEQUENCER ...........................................................................................................70

Programming RC68+ Triggered Sequences ................................................................................................ 70

Editing Individual Commands..................................................................................................................... 71

Page: 6 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

PROGRAMMING INTERNAL AMPLIFIER COMMANDS.....................................................................................71

ZONE EXPANSION (CONNECTING MULTIPLE MRC88M CONTROLLERS).................................................73

PROGRAMMING IN EXPANDED MODE................................................................................................... 74

Enabling EXPANDED Mode...................................................................................................................... 74

Programming the System.............................................................................................................................74

PHYSICAL CONNECTIONS IN EXPANDED MODE ................................................................................... 74

RS232 CONTROL WHILE IN EXPANDED MODE ........................................................................................75

TRANSFERRING A PROJECT TO THE MRC88M ...................................................................................................77

UPLOADING MRC88M PROJECTS............................................................................................................................77

SAVING AND BACKING-UP FILES............................................................................................................................78

Automatic Save............................................................................................................................................78

Save Project As............................................................................................................................................78

Backing-Up Project Files.............................................................................................................................78

Using Backup Files......................................................................................................................................78

Backing-Up SmartPad and Palette Files ......................................................................................................78

FIRMWARE UPGRADE OPTIONS.............................................................................................................................79

DOWNLOADING FIRMWARE FILES FROM THE WEB ................................................................................. 79

WARM FIRMWARE UPGRADE...................................................................................................................79

COLD FIRMWARE UPGRADE.....................................................................................................................79

SECTION 7: TWEAKING THE SYSTEM................................................................................... 80

TEACHING A HAND-HELD REMOTE TO OPERATE THE MRC88M SYSTEM................................................80

TEACHING A HAND-HELD REMOTE USING AN RC68+ HAND-HELD PROGRAMMER .............................. 80

TEACHING A HAND-HELD REMOTE DIRECTLY FROM DRAGON DROP-IR™ ...........................................80

MAKING FINE ADJUSTMENTS.................................................................................................................................81

TRIMMING SOURCE AUDIO INPUT LEVELS .............................................................................................. 81

ZONE ADJUSTMENTS................................................................................................................................82

KEYPAD ADJUSTMENTS ........................................................................................................................... 82

IR Sensitivity Adjustment............................................................................................................................82

LCD Backlight Adjustment..........................................................................................................................82

SECTION 8: OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS............................................................................. 83

ZONE CONTROL...........................................................................................................................................................83

POWERING THE ZONE ON AND OFF......................................................................................................... 83

SOURCE SLECTION AND CONTROL........................................................................................................... 83

SETTING THE VOLUME............................................................................................................................. 83

MUTING AND UN-MUTING.......................................................................................................................83

ACCESSING TIER 2 COMMANDS...............................................................................................................83

ZONE SETTINGS ...........................................................................................................................................................84

SYSTEM STATUS.......................................................................................................................................84

AUDIO ADJUSTMENTS..............................................................................................................................84

DYNAMIC MONITOR LOCKOUT (PARENTAL CONTROL) ..........................................................................84

DYNAMIC ZONE LINK ..............................................................................................................................84

SECTION 9: APPENDIX................................................................................................................ 86

RS232 CONTROL...........................................................................................................................................................86

TYPES OF COMMANDS.......................................................................................................................86

INTERFACING TO THE RS232 COMPORT ........................................................................................ 86

ASCII STRING ‘INITIATING’ AND ‘TERMINATING’ CHARACTERS...........................................86

TROUBLESHOOTING..................................................................................................................................................94

RS232 AND EXPANSION PIN OUT INFORMATION...............................................................................................98

SPECIFICATIONS.........................................................................................................................................................99

CERTIFICATIONS ........................................................................................................................................................99

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 7

Page: 8 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

Section 1: General Information & Features

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Xantech MRC88m System is the next generation in Whole-house Audio/Video Entertainment (WAVE™) family of products - the first being the MRC44. This is a revolutionary whole-house audio/video entertainment distribution, audio amplification and control system.

The MRC88m System consists of the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier, Eight LCD Keypads and Eight IR Emitters. When combined with almost any Eight IR (or RS232) controlled audio/video source components (CD, DVD, VCR, Satellite, etc.), using the MRC88m System is as easy as pushing a button.

The MRAUDIO8x8m is an Audio Only version of the MRC88m Controller. You get all the Power and Flexibility of the MRC88m Controller including Built-in Amplification, Power Management, RS232 Control, Routable IR, and expansion to 16 Zones and above in an Audio Only piece.

The MRAUDIO8x8m can be used as a stand-alone unit for audio only applications or in conjun ction with the MRC88m to provide 16 Zones of A/V distribution and Control (8 Zones with Audio & Video and 8 Zones with Audio only) to provide exactly what the job requires while meeting cost requirements.

The MRC88m system includes the following components:

• One MRC88m Controller/Amplifier (Part No. MRC88mCTL)

• Eight MRC88m Keypads(Part No. MRC88KPW)

• Eight IR Emitters (Part No. 283M)

• One DB9 programming cable to connect to the RS232 serial port on your PC (Part No. 05913410)

• One male DB15 to male DB15 cable with null modem for linking two MRC88m Controllers (Part No.

05913555)

• CD-ROM Disc contains the MRC88m Dragon Drop-IR software (Part No. 03900785-01)

• MRC88m System Installation Instructions (Part No. 08901180)

• Six speaker WECO connector plugs (Part No. 05997400

• 24 Keypad jumpers (for Zone Termination, Keypad Address and IR Sensor Enable)

• MRC88m Keypad Installation Kit which includes Eight sets of installation brackets (Part No. 03079565-01),

an installation template (Part No. 09590255), a Keypad removal tool (Part No. 03025280) and the Keypad Installation Instructions (Part No. 08901175)

• Caution card

Optional Accessories:

• Secondary Keypads: White: Part No. MRC88KPW; Black: Part No. MRC88KPB; Almond: Part No. MRC88KPA; Ivory: Part No. MRC88KPI (Also available in Dual Gang J-Box Mount – Model MRC

• SmartPad LCD™ Keypads: Models SPLCD39G, SPLCD64G, SPLCD64Video; TS57LCD

• MRCREM (Zone Companion Remote – no programming required)

• MRC44CB1 Connecting Block

• CSM1 Current Sensing Module

• URC-2P or URC-2B Universal Hand-Held Remote Controller

• RS2321X8 Router: Serial Router expanding a single MRC or MRAUDIO RS232 output to 8 Serial Ports

• ZAIP Zone Audio Input Kit: For use with Zone Audio Inputs. Send and Receive Stereo Audio over CAT5

• Expansion Port RS232 Adaptor Cable: Turns Expansion Port into another useable RS232 Port (Part No.

05913665)

• External IR Receivers: 480-00 Dinky Link™ Series (Comes in Standard and CFL Friendly Versions) 490 Micro Link™ Series (Comes in Standard and Plasma Friendly versions); 780 Series J-Box & 291 Series Hidden Link™ IR Receivers (Comes in Standard, CFL and Plasma versions)

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 9

IMPORTANT NOTE: A MRC88m System can be a single controller with keypads for up to Eight zones or two connected controllers and keypads for up to Sixteen zones. There are three different setup modes in the Dragon Drop-IR Software. The Basic mode allows quick setup and programming for an Eight zone system. It assumes all zones will use factory defaults and will behave exactly the same. The Advanced mode allows customization of system configuration for functions such as zone link, monitor lockout, unique IR programming by zone, etc. The Expanded mode allows programming of systems with more than Eight zones using linked MRC88m Controllers.

Each section of this manual will indicate which sections apply to the three programming modes and setups. A section with: BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED would apply to all system configurations. A section with: ADVANCED/EXPANDED would only apply to systems requiring advanced programming or that have more than Eight zones, etc.

In the Expanded mode, the controller for zones 1-8 will be referred to as the PRIMARY CONTROLLER. The controller for zones 9-16 will be referred to as the SECONDARY CONTROLLER.

NOTE: All programming and features of the MRC88m directly apply to the MRAUDIO8x8m with the exception of Video Distribution and Video Sensing.

Page: 10 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

SYSTEM OVERVIEW

The MRC88m is a Eight-source Eight-zone audio/video distribution and control system. The System is comprised of a Control Amp, Eight LCD Keypads, and Eight 283M IR Emitters. Together the Control Amp and the Keypads make up a Whole-house Audio/Video Entertainment system. The Control Amp acts as the Server and the Keypads act as the Clients. The end users interact with the Keypads in order to control all aspects of Audio/Video Distribution and Control. This System allows the end user to accomplish the following: 1) Distribute amplified Stereo Audio and Composite Video from Eight independent Sources to Eight separate Zones. 2) Control the Volume, Mute, Bass, Treble, and Balance for each of the eight Zones. 3) Control most standard source components via IR and/or RS232 commands. Two Control Amps can be linked to create systems with up to Sixteen zones.

Audio/Video

Source 1

Audio/Video

Source 8

DB9 / RS232

Common Status

Common IR

IR Learning Eye

Optional

External IR

Receiver

Primary Keypad

Optional

Secondary

Keypad

Audio

Power

Sense

Video

Serial RJ45RS422

& IR

Zone

Status

Audio

Video

Zone 1 Zone 8

POWER

PAUSE

SELECT

PLAY

REW

STOP

STATUS

POWER

PAUSE

SELECT

PLAY

REW

STOP

STATUS

To Built-In

Keypad

IR Receiver

Zone 1

VOL

Video

MUTE

Monitor

Speakers

VOL

MUTE

Primary Keypad

Optional

Secondary

Keypad

Figure 1 - System Block Diagram

Audio

Video

Serial RJ45-

RS422

& IR

POWER

STATUS

POWER

STATUS

To Built-In

IR Receiver

PAUSE

SELECT PLAY

REW

STOP

PAUSE

SELECT PLAY

REW

STOP

Keypad

Power

Sense

VOL

MUTE

VOL

MUTE

Zone

Status

Audio

Video

Zone 4

Video

Monitor

Speakers

Input 1

Input 2

Input 3

Music

Input 4

Server Zone

Input 5

Inputs

Input 6

Input 7

Input 8

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 11

CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER FEATURES

• Zones: Eight, expandable to 16-zones with the addition of a second Controller/Amplifier and additional keypads

• Sources: Eight audio AND VIDEO sources (Video applies to MRC88m only). Any zone can select any

source. Same source can be selected in multiple zones. Several modes of control: Whole-hous e mode – selection and control of any source from any zone. Priority mode – any zone can select and monitor a source, but only the first zone to select that source

can control it

Link mode – multiple zones can be linked together to act as a single zone for source selection and

control. Each zone maintains independent volume and mute controls.

Monitor lockout – prevents certain zones from selecting certain sources.

• Local Zone Audio Inputs: Eight zone-specific audio inputs. When activated, overrides source-one audi o inputs allowing each zone to have its own dedicated Audio Source by selecting source-one.

• IR Learning: IR commands can be learned from external hand-held remotes through the

Controller/Amplifier’s built-in IR learning eye or they can be generated from the MRC88m’s built-in IR code library.

 Internal IR Code Library: Built in IR Code Library. Contains all Major Brand Component IR commands. No

need to ‘learn’ commands.

• Macros: can be built using IR, audio control, RS232, repeat or delay commands and associa t ed with a

specific button or event. They can be triggered by a keypad button press, an RC68+ IR code, an MRC88m compatible keypad command, control sense status, video sense status or by RS232. Up to 40 IR commands can be issued in a single Macro.

• Audio/Video loop-through on all Eight source inputs (Video applies to MRC88m only)

• Power Management: Keeps all components Power States in-sync with Zone Power Status

All Eight video source inputs have built-in NTSC/PAL sync sensing (Applies to

MRC88m Only)

All Eight sources have current sense inputs for use with a CSM1 Current Sensor

• Preamp Outs for all Eight zones

Frequency response: 12 Hz to 55KHz (±3dB)

THD: <0.08%.

Signal-to-noise ratio: > 96dB A-weighted

• Amplification: Zones 1 through 6 have built-in stereo audio amplifiers at 35 Watts per channe l

Zones 7 and 8 are designed to be used with external amplifiers, ideally with either the

PA435X (for two zones of stereo audio at 35 Watts per channel) or the PA4100X (for two zones of stereo audio at 100 Watts per channel) with built-in POWER and MUTE control via Control Ports CO1 and CO2

• Eight zone-specific video outputs (Applies to MRC88m only)

• IR Emitter Outputs: Eight source-specific IR emitter outputs

One common IR emitter output Eight zone-specific IR emitter outputs

Eight in-the-zone IR emitter outputs via the MRC88m Keypad rear panel emitter output

- permitting IR commands originating in the zone to be looped back to the zone allowing the MRC88m to control components physically located in the zone

• Status Outputs: Eight zone-specific 12V status outputs

One common 12V status output (Labeled Control Out)

• RS232 Com/USB Com (Front Panel): Communications port used to program the system using Dragon

Drop-IR™ Software

 RS232 COM PORT (Rear): Allows the Controller/Amplifier to be controlled by a PC or other RS232 device

OR to control other devices that communicate via RS232 such as certain home theater components, lighting or HVAC devices

 EXPANSION PORT: Allows connection to another MRC88m or MRAUDIO8x8m for 16 Zones of seamless

control. Can also be used as an additional RS232 Control port (requires Xantech Part Number 05913665)

• Eight MRC88m Keypad connections - RJ45 connectors / CAT5 cable

Page: 12 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

KEYPAD FEATURES

• Flush-mount, snap-in wall unit with universal wall mounting plate. Requires a 4" x 4" hole cutout in wall (use included template).

• Connects to MRC88m Controller/Amplifier via CAT5 cable terminated with RJ45 connectors.

• Configurable LCD panel (via supplied Dragon Drop-IR™ software).

• 20 buttons (8 source select, 11 function, 1 power).

• Programmable dual functionality (tiered) “push-and-hold” on most buttons.

• Backlit LCD and buttons w/ rear panel brightness adjustment

• Variable backlight timeout.

• Bi-colored Status LED for power and status.

• Broadband IR receiver (30KHz to 100KHz) w/rear panel sensitivity adjustment.

• Rear Panel IR Input connections for addition of external IR Receivers and/or Keypads

• Rear Panel IR IN Zone Output connections for control of in-room components

• Two RJ45 connectors allow multiple keypads to be daisy-chained (up to 4 keypads per zone)

• Optional New Construction back-box (Xantech Part# MRCBOX) for Keypad mounting.

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 13

MRC88m CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER PANEL AND FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS

PROTECT

OFF

PROTECT

OFF

8 10

Figure 2 – The Model MRC88m Controller/Amplifier – Front Panel Features and Functions

MRC88M FRONT PANEL FEATURES AND CONNECTIONS:

1. Front Panel.

2. Chassis Feet. Set high enough to provide through-chassis cooling by natural convection.

3. Master AC Line On/Off Switch. Turns AC power On/Off to the entire unit.

4. Power and Status LED Indicators. Eight indicators, one for each Zone, provide the following status

information:

System Status (Power-Up Mode)

a) Slow Orange Blink – indi cates general initialization is occurring. b) Fast Green Blink – indicates that a keypad on the associated zone is currently being initialized. c) Fast Red Blink – indicates that the master keypad on the associated zone is not responding to

initialization.

d) Fast Orange Blink – indi cates that the slave keypad on the associated zone is not responding to

initialization.

e) All Lights Off – initialization is done, system is ready for operation.

Page: 14 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

Zone Status (Active-Operational Mode)

a) Steady Green – indicates that the Zone is Active (Keypad ON), is not muted and is not within 5 dB of

MAX-V. b) Steady Red – indicates that the Zone is Active, is not muted and is within 5 dB of MAX-V. c) Slow Green Blink – indicates that the Zone is in the Active, is muted and is not within 5 dB of MAX-V. d) Slow Red Blink – indicates that the Zone is Active, is muted and is within 5 dB of MAX-V. e) Fast Green Blink – indi cates that Zone is Active, is being Ramped Up or Down and is not within 5 dB of

MAX-V. f) Fast Red Blink – indicates that the Zone is Active, is being Ramped Up or Down and is within 5 dB of

MAX-V. f) Off to indicate that Zone is in Not Active (Keypad OFF).

5. Front Panel Access Door. Push gently on lower half of door to open. Allows access to programming connections, Level Reset and Front Panel Source 8 A/V Input.

6. Level Reset. Pressing this button twice within 1 second restores all of the Factory Default Settings for all zones. The Factory Defaults are as follows:

• Mute Off

• Treble and Bass Flat

• Balance Centered

• Z-Adjust Treble and Bass Flat

• Z-Adjust Balance Centered

• Z-Adjust Max-V Cleared

• Z-Adjust Max-On-V Cleared

• Trim Levels Cleared

• IR Code Group set to A8

NOTE: The Control Amp will always return to last set values (plus any unaltered factory defaults) after main

power shut down or after any power interruptions.

7. IR Learning Eye. The IR Eye on the MRC88m Controller front panel allows teaching IR Codes to Dragon Drop-IR™ via the Control Amp when connected to a PC ‘s com port.

8. RS232 Com Port. DB9 Connector. Used to program the MRC88m Controller from a PC using Dragon Drop-IR™ Software and for Firmware Upgrades.

9. PROTECT On/Off Switch. Selects between Programming Mode (OFF position) and PROTECT (ON) position to keep program secure in memory.

10. STATUS A Led. Green Activity LED, lights during Program Download from Dragon Drop-IR™ Software, during IR Learning and for Firmware Upgrades when using the RS232 Port located on the front panel

11. USB Com Port. Used to program the MRC88m Controller from a PC using Dragon Drop-IR™ Software and for Firmware Upgrades.

12. STATUS B Led. Green Activity LED, lights during Program Download from Dragon Drop-IR™ Software, during IR Learning and for Firmware Upgrades when using the USB Port located on the front panel.

13. Source 8 AUDIO IN L/R. Front panel Source 8 line level audio input. Gold-plated RCA Jacks for use with any desired A/V source component such as Camcorder, Video Game or other.

14. Source 8 VIDEO IN. Front panel Source 8 composite video input. Gold-plated RCA Jacks for use with any desired A/V source component such as Camcorder, Video Game or other. (Applies to MRC88m Only)

15. Source 8 Front/Rear Selector Switch. Selects whether the Source 8 Audio/Video inputs will come from the Front (F) or Rear (R) panel jacks.

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 15

2426

18 16

Figure 3 – The Model MRC88m Controller/Amplifier – Rear Panel Connections and Functions

MRC88M REAR PANEL FEATURES AND CONNECTIONS:

16. Keypad Terminals (8). Each Zone has one RJ-45 jack for Keypad Interface. Each connecto r interfaces the

following: Power (Enough for 1 Primary & up to 4 Secondary Keypads per Zone), RS-485 Data I/O, and IR Input.

17. Speaker Terminals (6). Plug-in 4-terminal screw type connectors for zones 1 thru 6, permit speaker wire sizes up to 12AWG.

18. Composite Video Output (8). RCA type connector sends zone selected, source video to the composite video input on a zone TV or modulator (Applies to MRC88m only).

19. Status Out (8). Provides a control output of +12 VDC that turns on and off with the zone to d rive voltage sensing relay modules and AC strips.

20. Control Out (8). Mono 3.5mm Mini Phone Jack provides a Control Output that goes high (+12 volts) when any Zone is first turned ON and goes low (0 volts) when the last Zone is turned OFF. [Tip=+VDC; Shield=GND]

21. Remote Amp Control Out (CO1 & CO2). Stereo 3.5mm Mini Phone Jack connects to CONTROL IN jack of Remote Amp PA435X or PA4100X. Provides STANDBY and MUTE Control of remote Amp from Zone 7 (CO1) and Zone 8 (CO2). [Tip = STANDBY Logic; Ring = MUTE Logic; Shield = GND]

22. Source Component Input Connections (8)

a) Source Audio Inputs. Gold-plated RCA Jacks for Stereo/Dolby Pro line level audio input from source

components.

b) Source Video Inputs. Gol d-plated RCA Jacks for composite video input from source components

(Applies to MRC88m only).

Page: 16 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

c) Sense Inputs. 3.5mm Stereo Mini Phone Jacks for use with the CSM1 MRC88m Current Sense

Module.

23. Source Loop-Thru Connections (8).

a) Audio Loop-Thru. Parallel Connection to Audio Inputs for connecting Audio Source to another MRC-

88 in Expanded Mode or to other local devices. This is not an active output.

b) Video Loop-Thru. Buffered Video Connection for connecting Input Video Source to another MRC-88 in

Expanded Mode or to other local devices. NOTE: Since this is a Buffered video connection, this loopthru is not active when POWER is removed from the MRC88m (Applies to MRC88m only).

24. Zone Audio Inputs (8). 3.5mm Stereo Mini Phone Jack for Zone specific stereo audio Server Inputs. Zone Audio Inputs override rear panel, Source 1 connection. Allows each of the 8 Zones to have a dedicated Server Output by selecting Source 1 on keypad.

25. Zone Audio Pre-Amp Out (8). Gold-plated RCA Jacks for connecting Zone Audio Output to an external amplifier. For use with applications where either more power is required for Zone or passing to a Dolby Pro compatible receiver for theater quality audio in zone.

26. IR Emitters (1-8). 3.5mm Mono Mini Phone Jacks. These mini jacks are for the connection of IR emitters to control individually the eight source components. These jacks are “steerable” with Dragon Drop-IR™ Software for IR Routing and Priority Lockout. IR received from a Zone will be routed to the emitter port corresponding to the Zones active source selection. Can also be configured as 8 common emitter ports (ADVANCED only) (See: Section 5: Controller Options Programming).

27. IR Emitter (Common). 3.5mm Mono Mini Phone Jacks. Single Common IR Output that can be used to control devices such as Multi Zone Audio Server, motorized drapery systems, TV lifts and lighting systems or any other IR controlled component. IR Received from any Zones Keypad will be output the Common emitter port regardless of source selection.

28. Zone IR Out (8). 3.5mm Mono Mini Phone Jacks. IR received from a Zone will always be passed to the corresponding Zone IR output. This can be used to control Zone Specific components not located in the zone.

29. Com Port. DB9 RS232 Co ntrol Port allows full control from an external PC component of all Internal Amplifier Commands of the MRC88m Controller and the ability to trigger programmed IR Macros for cont rol of devices connected to the Controllers emitter ports. The Com Port can also be used in the reverse to send ASCII/Hex commands OUT to control an external RS232 device directly from the MRC88m Keypad and/or handheld remote.

30. Expansion Port. DB15. Allows two MRC88m’s to be connected together, via included Expansion Cable, to provide an 8 Source/16 Zone system with full control between units. Can also be utilized as a secondary bidirectional RS232 Port.

31. User Replaceable Fuse. 10 AMP 250 VAC, Slow Blow Fuse (Domestic version). 5 AMP 250 VAC, TimeLag Fuse (European version).

32. AC Power Input. Standard IEC 3-Conductor AC Line Cord Receptacle for plug-in of a 3-conductor power line cord.

33. Grounding Screw. “Knurled Screw” provides a means for chassis connection to earth ground or to other Audio/Video products to aid in the reduction of system noise.

34. Power On/Off LED. This LED indicates the Main Power ON/OFF Condition of the MRC88m Controller.

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 17

MRC88m KEYPAD FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS

101413

Figure 4 – The Model MRC88m Keypad – Front Panel Features and Functions

MRC88M KEYPAD - FRONT FEATURES:

1. MRC88m Keypad.

2. Power. Turns the zone ON and OFF. Can be programmed with IR codes or sequences.

3. IR Sensor. Receives IR from hand-held remotes to control both source components and the MRC88m

system. A Programmable Learning Remote such as the Xantech URC2 is recommended for integrating the IR commands of the MRC88m and source components into a single controller. Compatible with most brands of remote controls, though some may not be programmable and will therefore only control the source components.

4. Status Indicator LED. Will indicate zone/system status and will flash as IR is received at the IR Sensor. These indicators, one for each Keypad, provide the following Information: a) LED Off = Zone OFF b) Steady Green = Zone ON c) Slow Green Blink = Zone MUTE

Page: 18 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

d) Fast Red Blink = IR Sensor INPUT or Keypad OUTPUT e) Fast Amber Blink = System BUSY

5. LCD Display. When the zone power is ON, the LCD will indicate the selected source, zo ne volume level, zone and system status and other system conditions. The display is automatically backlit when any button is pressed (backlight is programmable via Dragon Drop-IR™ software).

6. Source 1-4 Selector Buttons. Pressing of Source Button selects the corresponding source’s Audio/Video signal to be played in the Zone of the keypad pressed. Pressing of the Source Button will reverse the source icon on the LCD Display and sends IR commands programmed to the button (if any) to the corresponding source and common emitter outputs as well as Zone Emitter port.

7. Source 5-8 Selector Buttons. Pressing of Source Button selects the corresponding source’s Audio/Video signal to be played in the Zone of the keypad pressed. Pressing of the Source Button will reverse the source icon on the LCD Display and sends IR commands programmed to the button (if any) to the corresponding source and common emitter outputs as well as Zone Emitter port

8. Vol

9. Vol

10. Mute. Mutes zone speaker output. Sends IR commands programmed to this button (if any) to the selected

11. CH

12. CH

13. Status. Displays zone and system status. Allows access to Dynamic Zone Linking and Zone EQ/Balance

14. Select/Play, Stop, Pause, Rew, FF. Each send IR commands programmed to these buttons to the

+. Increases zone volume and moves the Volume Bar on the LCD Display to indicate volume level

(non-programmable).

-. Decreases zone volume and moves the Volume Bar on the LCD Display to indicate volume level

(non-programmable).

source emitter, common emitter, and zone emitter outputs.

+. Sends IR commands programmed to this button to the selected source emitter, common emitter,

and zone emitter outputs.

-. Sends IR commands programmed to this button to the selected source emitter, common emitter, and

zone emitter outputs.

settings (non-programmable).

selected source emitter, common emitter, and zone emitter outputs.

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 19

JP1

JP2

Figure 5 – The Model MRC88m Keypad – Rear Panel Features and Functions

MRC88M KEYPAD - REAR FEATURES AND CONNECTIONS:

15. Controller Terminal. RJ45 Jack. Connects Keypad to zone keypad input on MRC88m Controller via CAT5 cable.

16. Expansion Terminal. RJ45 Jack. Allows keypad to be daisy chained to another keypad for multiple control locations within a zone. Up to 4 keypads are supported per zone.

17. Keypad Address. Pair of Jumpers. Used to assign Keypad Address. Each Keypad in the zone must have a unique address (up to 4 keypads in a Zone).

18. Zone Termination. Jumper. Do not remove jumper if there is only one keypad in a zone. If there is more then one keypad in a zone, remove from all but the last keypad in the daisy chain configuration.

19. Sensor Enable. Jumper. Enables IR sensor on Keypad. Remove when using an external IR receiver.

20. IR Sensitivity Adjustment. Carefully adjust for background light level to prevent false triggering of the IR circuits. Slowly turn counter-clockwise to reduce sensitivity.

21. LCD Backlight Adjustment. Adjusts brightness of LCD backlight. This adjustment does not affect the backlight level for the buttons. Slowly turn counter-clockwise to reduce brightn ess.

22. IR In-Zone. 2-Terminal WECO style socket - Zone IR out for local ‘In-Zone’ emitter out. Used for IR control

of equipment in the same location as the keypad. Any IR generated from within the Zone (or routed to that zone from another) will be output from the IR IN-Zone connector as well as the Zone IR jack on the rear of the Controller. This feature is ‘selectable’ via Dragon Drop-IR™ Software.

23. External IR Terminal Block. 4-Terminal WECO style socket – Allows connection of other Xantech IR Receivers and/or Keypads to be used in conjunction with the MRC88m. (i.e. Use Waterpad Keypad in subzone in shower or outdoor zone or Plasma Friendly IR Receiver in place of Keypad IR Receiver).

24. Snap-in Pins. These pins snap into the MRC88m Keypad wall bracket for mounting.

Page: 20 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

Section 2: Installation & Connections

INSTALLATION

OPERATION: OUT-OF-THE-BOX PRE TEST (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED)

The MRC88m is shipped to operate basic functions ‘Out-Of-The-Box’ without any programming. Simply by plugging in keypads via standard CAT-5 RJ45 terminated patch cable and powering the controller ‘on’, you can control Source Selection, Volume Up/Down and speaker Mute capabilities.

Completing the Out-Of-The-Box Pre-Test will verify that all sources and zone components are working properly to select and distribute audio and video prior to programming with Dragon Drop-IR™. This will ensure that the unit is indeed functioning correctly ‘prior’ to fixed installation and allow proper troubleshooting procedures if a problem is encountered. Instructions regarding full programming for specific components an d features will follow.

Note: For ‘EXPANDED’ configuration, test both units individually as outlined below. Note: For simplicity of test set-up, only one Source Component, one pair of speakers, and one TV/Video

Monitor will be necessary.

For the pre-test, you will need the following:

 8-RJ45 Terminated CAT5 cables. (Pre test cables prior to use – See Caution below)  1-Audio/Video Source Component (i.e. VCR, DVD or other) [Will be used to test ALL Source Inputs]  1 Audio/Video RCA Harness (Capable of Audio Left/Right and Video)  1-Pair of speakers with Speaker Cable properly terminated into a 4 conductor WECO Plug [Will be used to

test Speaker outputs]

 1-TV or Video Monitor [Will be used to test ALL Video Outputs – MRC88m only]  8-283M Blink Emitter  All 8 MRC88m Keypads  MRC-88 Controller/Amplifier  PA435X Two-Zone Stereo Amplifier (or other)  2 Pair of Stereo RCA Phono cables (for PA435X)  AC Cord

1. Connect MRC88m Controller/Amplifier as shown in Figure 13 to: a) All MRC88m Keypads via CAT5 Cables b) Pre Amp Out of Zones 7 and 8 to PA435X Zones 1 and 2 Audio Input c) Audio/Video Source to SOURCE 1 Audio Left/Right and Video Input terminals d) TV or Monitor to Video Out 1 (MRC88m Only). e) Speakers to Speaker Output #1 f) All 8 IR emitters to IR Emitter Ports 1 thru 8 (rear connection Item #26) g) AC Power for MRC88m Controller and Audio/Video Source Component

2. Press “Power On” button on the front of the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier (wait for front panel LED’s to stop flashing – should be less than 20 seconds).

3. Power ON the Zone 1 TV/monitor and select the appropriate input (on the TV or monitor).

4. Power ON the Source Component and press play.

5. Place the emitter from IR Emitter Port 1 near the front of the Source Components IR Sensor window.

6. Press “POWER” on the Zone 1 Keypad.

7. Select “SRC1” on the Zone 1 MRC88m Keypad. a) If Source 1 is an Audio/Video component, the video content of the source connected to the Source 1

inputs should be seen on the zone 1 TV/monitor.

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 21

b) Press “VOL+” on the Zone 1 Keypad. The Volume bar should move on the Keypad and the audio

content of the source connected to the Source 1 inputs should be should be heard through the Zone 1 speakers.

c) Press “MUTE” on the Zone 1 Keypad. The Zone 1 speakers will mute. Press MUTE again and the

speakers will un-mute. (Pressing VOL+ or VOL- will also un-mute the speakers).

d) Use the source 1 original equipment remote and verify that all source functions operate when aiming

the remote at the Zone 1 Keypad IR sensor.

e) Press “POWER” on the Zone 1 Keypad and verify ALL Status LED’s on the Controller Front Panel are

OFF.

8. Move the Audio/Video Source component to SOURCE 2 Audio Left/Right and Video Input terminals; Speakers to Speaker Output #2 and the TV/Video Monitor to Video Out #2.

9. Repeat Steps 5 thru 8 for source/Zone 2 thru 8

Note: For Zones 7 & 8 Speakers will be connected to the Speaker A and B output of the PA435x Caution: Power voltage for the keypad is transmitted along the CAT5 cable! Incorrect wiring on this cable

can destroy the MRC Keypad. Please test the cable connections using a proper CAT5 cable tester

or using a Multimeter to check Pin to Pin continuity and for possible shorts. Using either method, it is advisable to measure pins 3 and 6 to verify proper voltage with a Multimeter. A 12Vdc measurement should be read when the positive probe is on pin 6 and the negative probe is on pin 3. See Figure

10.

Upper shelf, component, wall, etc.

2-inch spacing

MRC88

Keep perforations on top cover free of obstructions!

To maximize air flow, route single large opening in lower shelf.

Convection

Airflow

(minimum)

Keep perforations on bottom plate free of obstructions.

Figure 6A: MRC88m CTLR mounting

MRC88M CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER PHYSICAL LOCATION AND MOUNTING (BASIC/ADVANCED)

When you mount the MRC88m Controller, you should plan its location carefully. Pay close attention to each of the following factors (refer to Figure 6A above):

1. The amplifier is convection cooled. That is, it depends on the natural free flow of air up through the slot perforations in the bottom plate, over the internal heat dissipating fins, then out the top cover, for adequate cooling.

Page: 22 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

2. If mounted in an equipment cabinet or other confining location, allow at least 2 inches of space above the top cover. Be sure there are large openings in the shelf below the unit and in the cabinet to allow the entry of cool air and the escape of warm air.

3. If the cabinet contains other heat generating components or you are using several MRC88m's in a large multi-zone system, you will have to pay even closer attention to adequate ventilation.

4. Do not hesitate to use fans (quiet, boxer type), if necessary, to ensure a constant flow of air through the MRC88m's and the other heat generating components.

5. When mounting in a 19" (483mm) rack, adding a single RU (Rack Unit) spacer above and below the MRC88m will improve convection in heavy use applications. Note: Rear support may be required.

[One Rack Unit size = 1-3/4" (44.5mm) in height].

6. In multi-zone installations, you will have large bundles of wire and cable to accommodate audio, video and speaker connections. Be sure to allow enough room for the leads and dress them in such a manner so as not to block airflow.

7. The MRC88m is designed for mounting on flat horizontal surfaces. When mounting into a 19" rack, use a proper rack shelf or drawer (i.e. Middle Atlantic or equivalent)

8. Do not remove chassis feet. They are necessary to provide proper ventilation. NOTE: You should consider some sort of rear support for rack mounted units when u sed in mobile applications or when located in seismically active areas.

(EXPANDED)

Place Controllers on separate shelves or provide 2 inches of space between Controllers for ventilation.

MRC88M KEYPAD PHYSICAL LOCATION AND MOUNTING (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED)

MRC44 Keypad

Ground

Lug

To Earth Ground

Cat 5 Cable

RJ45 Connector

Figure 6 - Mounting and Installing the MRC88m Keypad

Keypad mounting for the MRC88m Keypad does not require a junction box. The MRC88m keypad can be mounted on drywall, lath & plaster, button board or other surfaces covering a hollow wall. Follow these simple procedures to install the provided MRC88m mounting bracket and keypad: NOTE: Check local electrical codes. Some areas require a backbox in certain applications. For installation s that require a back-box, see Xantech Part# MRCBOX. The MRC88m keypad will not fit in a standard 2-gang box. The Xantech MRCBOX must be used in applications that require a backbox.

1. Cutting the hole a. Mark the desired mounting location for the center of the keypad.

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 23

b. Using a level, make proper horizontal and vertical marks on surface to be cut, to properly orient

template.

Figure 7 – MRC88m Keypad mounting template

c. Locate the provided template so that the mark is in the center of the hole, which is in the center of the

template. d. Rotate the template around the center until the template is level. e. Press or hammer the template in place so that the holding tabs pierce the wall and hold the template in

place. f. Mark or scribe the outline of the template on the wall. g. Remove the template and cut a clean hole through the wall along the outline of the template, being sure

that your cut is on the outline. Any cut outside of the outline by more than ¼” may not be covered by the

MRC88m Keypad.

Figure 8 – Installing the MRC88m Keypad mounting bracket in the wall

2. Installing the Mounting Bracket a. Attach the ground wire to the ground lug to the rear of the back-bar with the provided green nut, before

beginning the bracket installation process.

NOTE: A ground wire connected to Earth ground is required to protect against static di scharge.

b. Orient the Mounting Bracket so the ground lug is on the top portion of the bracket and run the supplied

screws through the top front of the mounting bracket into the back-bar as shown in Figure 6.

Note: Do not tighten screws.

c. Pull the CAT5 cable through the hole in the wall. d. Pull the CAT5 cable through the hole in the mounting bracket.

Page: 24 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

e. Slide the left or right side of the back-bar into the wall as shown in Figure 8. f. Center the mounting bracket in the wall and tighten the screws until the bracket is firmly held in the wall.

Over tightening will distort the bracket and prevent the Keypad from snapping tight against the wall. Under tightening will cause the Keypad to be loose against the wall.

g. If there is not enough room to slide the keypad in as described above, you can hold the back-bar in

place as you run the screws through the mounting plate and into the back-bar. TIE A LONG STRING TO THE BACK-BAR so that you can easily retrieve it in case you drop the back-bar into the wall!

MRCBOX

MRC88 Keypad Mounting Bracket

Figure 8B: Optional Keypad Back-Box for pre-install applications

2-1. MRCBOX (Back-Box) Installation (optional)

a. Position Back-Box so inner rectangle is in a horizontal position. as shown in Figure 8B b. Affix MRCBOX to Wall Stud at desired height with front of box flush with front of stud (or set back

slightly) as to not interfere with Sheetrock. c. Attach ground wire to ground lug as described in Step 2a as shown above. d. Orient the Mounting Bracket so the ground lug is on the top portion of the bracket and using two 1.5”

(38.1mm) self-tapping drywall screws (or sheet metal screws), mount the bracket to the Back Box. For

extra rigidity use two 2” (50.8mm) self-tapping drywall screws (or sheet metal screws) through the

bottom two screw holes.

3. With the Controller/Amplifier turned off, connect the CAT5 cable to the appropriate RJ45 connector, using Figure 10 as a guide for CAT5 termination.

4. Add or remove jumpers on the rear of the MRC88m keypad-according to Table 1 (Keypad connections).

5. Firmly snap the MRC88m Keypad into the bracket that you have just installed (see Figure 6).

6. Confirm all Keypad operations.

MRC88M KEYPAD REMOVAL

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 25

POWER

STATUS

SELECT

PLAY

REW

VOL

PAUSE

VOL

STOP

MUTE

Figure 9 – Removing the MRC88m Keypad from the wall

1. Insert the MRC88m keypad removal tool into the slot at the bottom of the keypad, as shown in Figure 9, being sure that the tool is inserted so that the “insert to here” line slides under the Keypad. This will reduce the risk of damage to the Keypad or the wall.

2. Twist the removal tool in either direction until the bottom of the Keypad pulls away from the wall, then carefully grip the edges of the Keypad with your fingers and pull it off the wall.

NOTE: Since the Keypad snaps into the mounting bracket and there are a large variety of wall textures, the

Keypad may POP OUT or require some additional effort to pull it off the wall, depending on your particular installation.

CONNECTING THE MRC88m CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER

When making connections to the MRC88m Controller be sure the power cord is unplugged. Proceed as follows, referring to Figure 3 and Figure 13 for a typical MRC88m system layout and interconnections:

SOURCE RELATED CONNECTIONS

The following relates to all source related connections to the MRC88m Controller Unit (A/V In/Out, IR Control, Sense Inputs etc.)

OURCE COMPONENT CONNECTIONS

Audio Connections (BASIC/ADVANCED)

Using good quality RCA-type patch cables connect the LEFT and RIGHT OUTPUT jacks of the source component (DVD, CD, Satellite receiver, etc.) to the appropriate source AUDIO LEFT and AUDIO RIGHT

INPUT jacks on the MRC88m - Figure 3-(22).. Do this for each source component. (EXPANDED)

Using good quality RCA-type patch cables connect the source AUDIO LEFT and AUDIO RIGHT OUTPUT Jacks of the ‘Primary Controller’ - Figure 3-(23). to the corresponding source AUDIO LEFT and AUDIO RIGHT INPUT jacks on the ‘Secondary Controller’ - Figure 3-(22).

Video Connections (MRC88m Only) (BASIC/ADVANCED)

Using good quality RCA-type video patch cables connect the VIDEO OUTPUT jacks of the source component to the VIDEO INPUT jacks on the MRC88m - Figure 3-(22). Do this for each source Component.

(EXPANDED)

Using good quality RCA-type patch cables connect the source VIDEO OUTPUT jacks of the ‘Primary controller’ [Figure 3-(23)] to the corresponding so urce VIDEO INPUT jacks on the Secondary Controller Figure 3-(22).

Page: 26 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

ONE AUDIO INPUTS

(ADVANCED)

Use 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack to Stereo RCA Plug adapter to connect Zone Specific Audio Sources (i.e. Audio Server or other Zone Specific Audio Component – i.e. MP3 player located in Bedroom 1) to the appropriate Zone Audio Input - Figure 3-(24). The 3.5mm Stereo Jack is wired as follows: Tip = Right Audio Input; Ring = Left Audio Input; Sleeve = GND. The Zone Audio Input feature is enabled via Dragon DropIR™ software in the ADVANCED configuration only. When enabled, the Zone Audio Input will override the Source 1 Input connected at the Audio Left/Right RCA Input terminals - Figure 3-(22). Zone Audio Inputs do not support Video.

(EXPANDED)

For Zones 1-8, connect to the Primary Controllers Zone Audio Input as stated above. For Zones 9-16 connect to the Secondary Controllers Zone Audio Input [Figure 3-(24)] as stated above.

CONTROL CONNECTIONS

(BASIC/ADVANCED)

Plug the supplied 283M IR emitters into the appropriate IR Emitter jacks - Figure 3-(26). Be careful to match the source audio and video connection number on the MRC88m to the IR Emitter jack number. This will ensure that the IR control signal will be routed to the correct source component. Find the IR sensor window on the source component and attach the emitter to the components sensor window after removing the protective paper cover on the flat side of the emitter head. A Common IR jack is also provided for connection to other auxiliary devices that are not source specific - Figure 3-(27).

(EXPANDED) Connect emitters to the ‘Primary Controllers’ IR Emitter jacks - Figure 3-(26) as noted above. Note: The appropriate source IR Emitter of the ‘Secondary Controller’ will also flash regardless of what

zones keypad issues the command but it is recommended to use the emitter jacks of the Primary unit.

ENSE INPUT CONNECTIONS

(BASIC/ADVANCED)

The sense input connection will typically be used to sense the power state of a source component using the Xantech CSM1 Current Sense Module (optional). Plug the 3.5mm mini plug from the CSM1 into the appropriate sense jack – Figure 3-(22). Be careful to match the source audio and video connection number on the MRC88m to the appropriate sense jack number. The CSM1 plugs into an AC power source. The component power cord plugs into the CSM1. (Refer to instructions included with the CSM1 unit).

CSM1 Threshold Adjustments

a. First, make sure the 3.5mm mini-plug is plugged into the appropriate sense jack on the MRC44 and that

the MRC44 is powered ON. (The CSM1 gets low-voltage DC power from the MRC44 – not from the AC line. See Figure 2-Top for mini-jack pin out )

b. Select the correct position of the RANGE slider switch – the HI position is for devices with a high

current draw when ON, the LO position is for devices with a low current draw when ON (based upon the

lowest current draw state of the component when ON). c. Manually turn the component ON. d. Using a small (1/8” wide) blade screwdriver, rotate the current control to the full CLOCKWISE position

(LO CURRENT). e. Rotate the control COUNTER-CLOCKWISE (towards the HI CURRENT position) until the Threshold

Adjustment LED goes OFF. f. Turn the component OFF (Standby Mode). g. Rotate the control CLOCKWISE until the Threshold Adjustment just goes ON. h. Set the control to a point midway between these two settings. This should be the correct setting.

NOTE 1: If you have trouble with the threshold adjustment correctly detecting the ON and OFF states of the component, try changing the RANGE slider to the opposite position and then try the adjustment again. NOTE 2: If the Threshold Adjustment LED does not go ON and OFF with the component power, make minor adjustments to the threshold adjust until the LED is in proper sync. NOTE 3: Program IR commands for the MRC44 Controller current sensing as d escribed in the MRC44 Installation Instructions, “PROGRAMMING SENSE CODES”.

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 27

(EXPANDED)

Connect CSM1’s as described above to the Primary Controller. Sense inputs are not available on the Secondary Controller.

ZONE RELATED WIRING CONNECTIONS

In typical applications, each zone will have at least one MRC88m Keypad and a pair of stereo speakers. In those zones with both audio and video, at least one video monitor or television will also be used. In order to make these connections, the minimum requirement is home runs of one CAT5 cable for each zone’s keypad(s), two pairs of 12-18AWG wire for each pair of speakers, and one coaxial cable for a TV or monitor from each zone to the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier location.

PEAKER CONNECTIONS

(BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED)

1. Using good quality speaker wire, connect the individual speaker leads to the 4-terminal "SPEAKER" connectors on the MRC88m as shown in Figure 3-(22).

2. The MRC88m Speaker Terminals (amplifier outputs) are 4-Ohm safe. Make sure the combined impedance presented to the speaker terminals by the speakers (or any combination of speakers) is 4Ohm minimum.

3. Be sure to observe correct polarity by connecting the "+" and "–" terminal from each channel on the MRC88m to the corresponding "+" and "–" terminals on each speaker. This will ensure proper "phasing" (See Step 6). Since the connectors are removable, you may unplug them for ease of lead assembly.

4. As a rule of thumb, use 18 gauge speaker wire for speaker runs up to 30' (9m), 16 gauge up to 70' (21m), and 14 gauge up to 150' (39m). The 4-terminal connectors accept wire sizes up to 12-gauge max.

5. Strip the insulation back about 1/4" (6mm) and twist the strands on each lead to prevent fraying.

6. Speaker Phasing: To obtain stable imaging and full bass response, it is imperative that stereo speakers be connected "in phase" with each other. You can verify this as follows:

a) If the "+" (positive) and "–" (negative) terminals on your speakers are correctly marked, and visible,

and you have wired the system with the positive connector on the rear of the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier connected to the positive connector on the speaker and the negative connector on the rear of the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier connected to the negative connector on the speaker, then the system will be "in phase". No further action is required. Most manufacturers identify the positive terminal with a red binding post, a "+" sign, or a red dot.

b) If you are unsure of the markings, you can verify the phasing. Using a mono sound source, such as

AM radio, alternately reverse the leads to one of the speakers. Pick the connection that delivers a

solid center image between the speakers as well as best bass resp onse. CAUTION: After lead ends are inserted and the screws tightened down, be sure there are no free strands that could cause shorting!

Page: 28 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

RJ45 Connector at Controller/Amplifier

Wire Color Pin # Signal white/orange 1 485 + orange 2 485 white/green 3 12V RET blue 4 IR RET white/blue 5 IR green 6 +12V white/brown 7 Attn. 485 brown 8 IR Loop Back

Cat 5 Cable

Figure 10 - CAT5 Pin Assignments (per EIA/TIA 568B) Pinned 1:1

MRC88 (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED)

The MRC88m ‘Pin-to-Pin’ CAT5 cabling that can be purchased pre-fabricated at fixed lengths or self-assembled to custom lengths. The color-coded wiring standard is EIA/TIA 568B as shown in Figure 10. The plastic connector on the end of the CAT5 wire is “registered jack” RJ45.

1. See Figure 10 for proper termination of the CAT5 cables to the RJ45 connectors.

2. Connect the zone keypad to the appropriate zone Keypad connector on the rear of the MRC88m

V (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED) Composite Video

1. When running composite video to a TV or monitor, use RG-6 coaxial or RG-59 quadshield cable with

Modulated Video

3. When modulating the zone video output and using the RF/ANT input to a television, connect the VIDEO

M KEYPAD CAT5 CABLE CONNECTIONS AT THE MRC88M CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER

Controller/Amplifier – Figure 3-(16).

Caution:

the MRC Keypad! Be sure to test cable for proper connections before making connections.

IDEO CONNECTIONS (MRC88M ONLY)

Power voltage for the keypad is transmitted along this cable! Incorrect wiring on this cable can d estroy

RCA type phono plugs on each end. This connection can be run up to 150 feet, as this is a buffered video output from the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier.

2. Connect the zone video cable to the appropriate zone video jack on the rear of the MRC88m Controller/ Amplifier – Figure 3-(18).

OUTPUT from the MRC88m Controller – Figure 3-(18), to the VIDEO INPUT of a Modulator, using high quality RCA type video patch cords. Use RG-6 coaxial cable with "F" connectors on each end to connect the Modulator, to the RF/ANT IN on the room TV.

TATUS CONNECTIONS AND COMMON CONTROL OUT

Status (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED)

Each zone has a Status Output –Figure 3-(19), that provides a control output of +12 VDC, 50mA that turns ON and OFF with the zone ON/OFF condition. ON = +12VDC, OFF = 0VDC. Using a 3.5mm mono mini phone connector, this control can be used to close a relay, such as a Xantech CC12, to raise a TV lift or drop a projection screen automatically when a zone is turned ON. Connect one end of the 3.5mm Mono

RJ45 Connector at Keypad

Wire Color Pin # Signal white/orange 1 485 + orange 2 485 white/green 3 12V RET blue 4 IR RET white/blue 5 IR green 6 +12V white/brown 7 Attn. 485 brown 8 IR Loop Back

Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m Page: 29

Mini jack to the appropriate zone Status connector on the rear of the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier and the other end to the device to control. Tip=Control Voltage; Sleeve=GND

Control Out (BASIC/ADVANCED) A single Common Control Output is provided on the rear of the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier –Figure 3(20). When the Common Control Output is High (+12 volts, 50 mA), this indicates that ‘at least’ one zone is

powered ON. When the Common Control Output is Low (0 volts), this indicates that ‘all’ zones are OFF. Using a 3.5mm mono mini phone connector, this control can be us ed to close relays (Xantech CC12) or turn on an AC outlet (Xantech AC1, AC2) for activity common to the system. Connect one end of the 3.5mm Mono Mini jack and the other end to the device to control. Tip=Control Voltage; Sleeve=GND

(EXPANDED)

When at least one zone on either the PRIMARY or SECONDARY controller is turned ON, the Control Out on the PRIMARY Controller is High (+12VDC). The Control Out on the SECONDARY Controller is inactive in EXPANDED mode.

REAMP OUT

(BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED) Each zone has a Prea mp Out to send ‘zone selected’ audio to another amplifier such as the Xantech

PA435x or PA4100x. This may be desired for feeding a sub-zone on a separate amplifier, zones that require more than 35W, or for sending audio to another amplifier with Dolby™ surround deco ding for ‘theater quality’ audio in the zone.

Using go od quality RCA-type patch cables, connect the Preamp Out, Left(L) and Right(R) connectors –

Figure 3-(25), to the desired external amplifiers Audio Left and Right Input connectors.

CO1

AND CO2 (ZONES 7 & 8)

(BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED)

Zones 7 and 8 have a Remote Mute/Standby output for interfacing and controlling a Xantech PA435X

(included) or PA4100X amplifier. The control is provided via a Stereo Mini Jack with the TIP controlling STANDBY logic (Standby Power On = +12 volts, Standby Power Off = 0 volts) and the RING controlling MUTE logic (Mute = +12 volts, Un-Mute = 0 volts).

Using a 3.5m m Stereo Mini Jack to 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack cable, plug one end into the CO1 (or CO2)

output jack on the rear of the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier – Figure 3-(21) and the other end into the corresponding jack labeled CO1 (or CO2) on the PA435X or PA4100X amplifier. NOTE: Be sure to set the Control In (CI) switch to ON located on the rear of the PA435X or PA4100X amplifier.

ONE IR

(BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED) Using Xantec h Emitters (282M, 283M,284M, or 286M), plug the 3.5mm Mono Mini jack into the appropriate

zones Zone IR connector – Figure 3-(28). Affix the mouse emitter side to the desired zone related component you wish to control. If more than one device needs to be controlled, use a mono mini to stripped-ends wire (PN#6015900) wired to a Xantech 791-44 Amplified Connecting block. Any IR generated in the zone (either from MRC-88 Keypad, IR received at the Keypad, or routed from another zone (ADVANCED only)) will be passed to this emitter port.

POWER CONNECTIONS

(BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED)

Use the supplied power cable and plug into a power source capable of delivering the rated amps shown in the specification section of this manual.

Page: 30 Model MRC88m / MRAUDIO8x8m

CONNECTIONS AT THE ZONE LOCATION (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED)

EYPAD CONNECTIONS AND JUMPER SETTINGS

Single Keypad CAT5 Connections

1. Refer to Figure 10 for proper termination at the zone-end of the CAT5 cable.

2. Set Keypad Address jumper configuration on the rear of the keypad – Figure 5-(17) according to Table 1 below.

2. Connect the CAT5 cable from the MRC88m Controller/Amplifier into the RJ45 jack marked “Controller” on the rear of the MRC88m keypad.

Caution:

destroy the MRC Keypad! Be sure to test cable for proper connections before making connections.

Power voltage for the keypad is transmitted along this cable! Incorrect wiring on this cable can

Multiple Keypad Connections

1. For a second keypad in the same zone, terminate the CAT5 cable in the same way as shown in Figure

10.

2. Connect the CAT5 coming from the MRC88m Controller to the “CONTROLLER” jack on the Primary Keypad. Plug a CAT5 cable into the “EXPANSION” jack on the Primary Keypad and connect it to the “CONTROLLER” jack on the Secondary Keypad. Repeat for all keypads in zone (up to a total of 4 Keypads) Set the Address jumpers on the rear of the keypad – Figure 5-(17) according to Table 1 below.

Keypad Address Setting

Application

JP1 JP2

First (or Single) Keypad in Zone

(Primary Keypad connected directly to MRC88m

OFF OFF

Controller)

Second Keypad in Zone

(Connected to Primary

OFF ON

keypads Expansion Port)

Third Keypad in Zone

(Connected to Second

ON OFF

keypads Expansion Port)

Fourth Keypad in zone

(Connected to third keypads

ON ON

Expansion Port)

Table 1 – MRC88m Keypad Address Settings

Zone Termination

The LAST keypad connected in the zone (Keypad with no other keypad plugged into its EXPANSION port) must have the Zone Termination Jumper installed – Figure 5-(18).

Sensor Enable

To disable the Keypads on-board IR Receiver, remove the Sensor Enable jumper on the rear of the keypad – Figure 5-(19).

External IR Terminal Block

To conveniently add other Xantech IR Receivers or Keypads (SMARTPAD or WATERPAD) in conjunction with the MRC88m Keypads, you may wire 18AWG-24AWG 4-conductor wire, directly to the terminal block on the rear of the Keypad – Figure 5-(23). A 4-conductor screw-type removable connector is provided to safely wire the +12v, STATUS, IR IN and GND to the rear of the Keypad. This might be useful when adding a Plasma Friendly (or other) IR Receiver (490-90 etc.) or adding a sub zone keypad either outdoors or in a bathroom (WATERPAD Keypad).

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Xantech MRAUDIO8X8M, MRC88M User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual