Xantech MRC44 User Manual

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INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

MODEL MRC44

FOUR ZONE – FOUR SOURCE

AUDIO/VIDEO CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER SYSTEM

Page: 2 Model MRC44

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 equilateral triangle, 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 are, however, some installation and operation precautions, which you should be particularly aware of.

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

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

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 bas ement, 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 s ituated on a bed, sof a, 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 applianc e should be situated away f rom heat sources suc h as radiators, heat registers, s toves , 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 applianc e.

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 f rom the appliance.

13. Cleaning – T he appliance s hould be c leaned only as rec ommended by the manufacturer.

14. Power Lines – An out door 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. T he appliance has been exposed to r ain; or D. T he appliance does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in perf ormance; or E. The appliance has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.

18. Servicing – The us er s hould not attempt to service the appliance beyond that des cr ibed in the operating instr uctions. All other

servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.

Model MRC44 Page: 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section Title Page

General Information...........................................................................................................................................4

System Overview...............................................................................................................................................5

Controller/Amplifier Features .............................................................................................................................6

Keypad Features ...............................................................................................................................................6

MRC44 Controller/Amplifier Panel And Feature Descriptions .............................................................................7

MRC44 Keypad Feature Descriptions ..............................................................................................................10

Operation – Out-of-the-Box..............................................................................................................................12

Installation

MRC44 Controller/Amplifier Physical Location and Mounting...............................................................13

MRC44 Keypad Physical Location and Mounting.................................................................................13

MRC44 Keypad Removal ....................................................................................................................15

Connecting the MRC44 Controller/Amplifier ........................................................................................16

Connections at the Zone Location .......................................................................................................19

Setting-Up the MRC44 System........................................................................................................................21

Planning the System........................................................................................................................................23

Programming the MRC44 System Using the DRAG450MRC Software

Software Setup ...................................................................................................................................23

Learning the IR Commands.................................................................................................................24

Editing and Testing IR Commands ......................................................................................................25

Putting Codes to Work in the MRC44 ..................................................................................................26

Programming Keypads........................................................................................................................26

System Set-Up Procedures .................................................................................................................31

Programming the MRC44 Controller/Amplifier .....................................................................................32

Programming Power Management and Sense Trigger Codes..............................................................33

Advanced/Expanded Programming

Controller Options Programming .........................................................................................................34

Zone Linking .......................................................................................................................................36

RC68+ IR Code Triggered Sequencer .................................................................................................38

Programming Internal Amplifier Commands ........................................................................................39

Transferring a project to the MRC44....................................................................................................41

Uploading MRC44 Projects .................................................................................................................41

Saving and Backing-Up Files ..............................................................................................................41

Fine Tuning.........................................................................................................................................42

Operating Instructions......................................................................................................................................44

Zone Expansion Using Multiple MRC44 Controllers .........................................................................................46

Troubleshooting...............................................................................................................................................48

Specifications..................................................................................................................................................52

Certifications ...................................................................................................................................................52

Page: 4 Model MRC44

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Xantech MRC44 System is a revolutionary whole-house audio/video distribution, audio amplification and control system.

The MRC44 System consists of the MRC44 Controller/Amplifier, four LCD Keypads and four IR Emitters. When combined with almost any four IR controlled audio/video source components (CD, DVD, VCR, Satellite, etc.), using the MRC44 System is as easy as pushing a button. The features of the MRC44 are:

The MRC44 system includes the following components:

x One MRC44 Controller/Amplifier(Part No. MRC44CTL) x Four MRC44 Keypads(Part No. MRC44KPW) x Four IR Emitters (Part Number 283M) x One DB9 programming cable to connect to the RS232 serial port on your PC (Part No. 05913410) x One male DB9 to male DB9 cable with null modem for linking two MRC44 Controllers (Part No. 05913560) x CD-ROM Disc contains the MRC44 Dragon Drop-IR software (Part No. 03900745-01) x MRC44 System Installation Instructions (Part No. 08901160) x Four speaker connector plugs x 12 Keypad jumpers x MRC44 Keypad Installation Kit which includes four sets of installation brackets (Part No. 03079545-01), an

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

x Caution card

Optional Accessories: x Secondary Keypads - see page 18

White: Part No. MRC44KPW Black: Part No. MRC44KPB Almond: Part No. MRC44KPA Ivory: Part No. MRC44KPI

x External IR Receivers

480-00 Dinky Link™ Series IR Receivers 480-80 CFL Friendly Dinky Link™ Series IR Receivers 490-00 Micro Link™ Series IR Receivers 780 Series J-Box IR Receivers 291 Series Hidden Link™ IR Receivers

x MRC44 Connecting Block (Part No. MRCCB1) – see page 19 x CSM1 Current Sensing Module x URC2P or URC2B

IMPORTANT NOTE: A MRC44 System can be a single controller with keypads for up to four zones or two connected controllers and keypads for up to eight zones. There are three different setup modes in the Dragon Drop-IR Software. The Basic mode allows quick setup and programming for a four 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 four zones using linked MRC44 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 four zones, etc.

In the Expanded mode, the controller for zones 1-4 will be referred to as the PRIMARY CONTROLLER. The controller for zones 5-8 will be referred to as the SECONDARY CONTROLLER.

Model MRC44 Page: 5

SYSTEM OVERVIEW

The MRC44 is a four-source four-zone audio/video distribution and control system. The System is comprised of a Control Amp, four LCD Keypads, and four 283M IR Emitters. Together the Control Amp and the Keypads make up a multi-room A/V 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 four independent Sources to four separate Zones. 2) Control the Volume, Mute, Bass, Treble, and Balance for each of the four internal Stereo Audio Amplifiers. 3) Control most standard source components via IR commands. Two Control Amps can be linked to create systems with up to eight zones.

DB9 / RS232

Common Status

Common IR

IR Learning Eye

Optional

External IR

Receiver

Primary Keypad

Optional

Secondary

Keypad

Audio/Video

Source 1

Audio

Power

Sense

Video

MRC44

POWER

Zone

Serial

Status

RJ45-

RS422

& IR

Zone 1

POWER

VOL

PAUSE

SELECT

VOL

PLAY

FFREW

STOP

MUTE

STATUS

POWER

VOL

PAUSE

SELECT

VOL

PLAY

REW

STOP

MUTE

STATUS

To Built-In

Keypad

IR Receiver

Audio

Video

Zone 1

Video

Monitor

Speakers

Primary Keypad

Optional

Secondary

Keypad

Audio/Video

Source 2

Audio

Power

Sense

Video

1234

Serial

Status

RJ45-

RS422

& IR

Zone

Audio

Video

Audio

Video

Serial RJ45-

RS422

Zone 2

POWER

PAUSE

SELECT

PLAY

FFREW

STOP

STATUS

POWER

PAUSE

SELECT

PLAY

REW

STOP

STATUS

To Built-In

Keypad

IR Receiver

Zone 2

VOL

Video

MUTE

Monitor

Speakers

VOL

MUTE

Secondary

Primary Keypad

Optional

Keypad

POWER

IR Receiver

Audio/Video

Source 3

Power Sense

Status

& IR

FOUR ZONE - FOUR SOURCE AUDIO/VIDEO CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER

Zone

Audio

Video

Zone 3

VOL

PAUSE

SELECT

VOL

PLAY

FFREW

STOP

Video

MUTE

STATUS

REW

STATUS

To Built-In

Keypad

Monitor

Speakers

VOL

PAUSE

SELECT

VOL

PLAY

STOP

MUTE

Secondary

Primary Keypad

Optional

Keypad

Audio/Video

Source 4

Audio

Power

Sense

Video

Zone

Serial

Status

RJ45-

RS422

& IR

Zone 4

POWER

VOL

PAUSE

SELECT

VOL

PLAY

FFREW

STOP

MUTE

STATUS

POWER

VOL

PAUSE

SELECT

VOL

PLAY

REW

STOP

MUTE

STATUS

To Built-In

Keypad

IR Receiver

Audio

Video

Zone 4

Video

Monitor

Speakers

Figure 1 - System Block Diagram

Page: 6 Model MRC44

CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER FEATURES

Central Processor

x Four Audio/Video Source Inputs x Video sensing (NTSC/PAL Sync) on each input for power management of common source components x Current sensing (>20mA-<10A) for each input for power management of common source components and

future control modules using the optional CSM1

x Internal memory (96 Kbytes non-volatile flash) for storing IR codes. x Programmable only with Dragon Drop-IR Programming Software. x Recognizes Xantech RC68+ Commands to initiate sequences of IR or amplifier commands. x Outputs single IR commands or IR sequences. x Sends "busy" signal to keypads when system is active. x IR learning eye on back panel of Controller/Amplifier is used as an IR learning port with Dragon Drop-IR™

software.

x DB-9 RS232 Serial port for programming, expansion and upgrading firmware (Future Proof). x Also available in 230 VAC / 50 Hz.

Zone Features/Specifications

x Each zone has 1 RJ45 connector for MRC44 keypad, 1 composite video output, 1 speaker-pair terminal

and a 12VDC status output.

x Multiple zones can be linked to behave as one zone. x 25 Watts per channel. x Frequency response: 12 Hz to 55KHz (±3dB) x THD: <0.08%. x Signal-to-noise ratio: > 96dB A-weighted

Five IR Emitter Ports

x Four source specific IR emitter ports and one common IR output.

Software

x Uses Xantech's Dragon Drop-IR™ programming software (included). x Provides programming of IR codes for control of source components. x Program sequences of up to 40 IR codes per button. x Incorporate delays in sequences to allow for amplifier power-up, light dimming, screen drop, drape closure,

etc.

x Allows programming and creation of source icons on keypad displays. x Associates IR codes to sensed conditions for power management of common sources. x "Future Proof" feature will allow upgrades for additional system flexibility and control as available.

KEYPAD FEATURES

x Flush-mount, snap-in wall unit with univ ersal wall mounting plate. Requires a 4" x 4" hole cutout in wall

(use included template).

x Configurable LCD panel (via supplied Dragon Drop-IR software). x 16 buttons (4 source select, 11 function, 1 power). x Backlit LCD and buttons. x Variable backlight timeout. x Bi-colored Status LED for power and status. x Broadband IR receiver (30KHz to 100KHz). x Connects to MRC44 Controller/Amplifier via CAT5 cable with RJ45 connectors. x Two RJ45 connectors allow two keypads per zone. x Programmable “push-and-hold” on most buttons. x Optional New Construction backbox (Xantech Part# MRCBOX).

Model MRC44 Page: 7

MRC44 CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER PANEL AND FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS

MRC44

POWER

1234

FOUR ZONE - FOUR SOURCE AUDIO/VIDEO CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER

Figure 2 – The Model MRC44 Controller/Amplifier – Front Panel Features and Functions

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. Four indicators, one for each Zone, prov ide the following status

information:

System Status (Power-Up Mode)

a) Slow Orange Blink – indicates 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 – indicates 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.

Zone Status (Operational Mode)

a) Steady Green to indicate that Zone is in the Power-Up Mode, is not muted and is not within 5 dB of

MAX-V. b) Steady Red to indicate that Zone is in the Power-Up Mode, is not muted and is within 5 dB of MAX-V. c) Flash Green to indicate that Zone is in the Power-Up Mode, is muted and is not within 5 dB of MAX-V. d) Flash Red to indicate that Zone is in the Power-Up Mode, is muted and is within 5 dB of MAX-V. e) Flash Green to indicate that Zone is in the Power-Up Mode, is not muted, is not within 5 dB of MAX-V

and is being Ramped Up or Down. f) Flash Red to indicate that Zone is in the Power-Up Mode, is not muted, is within 5 dB of MAX-V and is

being Ramped Up or Down. g) Off to indicate that Zone is in the Power-Down Mode.

Page: 8 Model MRC44

1234

SENSE SENSE SENSE SENSE

COM PORT

AUDIO LEFT

AUDIO RIGHT

VIDEO

GND

IR OUT

WARNING: TO REDUCE THE

RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL

SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE

THIS UNIT TO RAIN,

MOISTURE OR PLACE WATER

FILLED OBJECTS ON THE

PRODUCT.

ATTENTION: RISQUE DE

CHOC ELECTRIQUE

NE PAS OUVRIR.

NO USER SERVICABLE

PARTS INSIDE.

REFER TO OWNERS MANUAL FOR SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.

1 2 3 4 COMMON

VIDEO

12 34

STATUS

K E Y P A

SPEAKER

LEFT RIGHT

131218

DINSTRUCTIONS.

LOUDSPEAKERS

+-- --+

ATTENTION:

POUR UN REGLAGE

CORRECT, SE

REPORTER AU

MANUEL

USE CLASS 2

WIRING FOR

VIDEO

STATUS

K E Y P A D

LEFT RIGHT

SPEAKER

CONTROLLER / AMPLIFIER

THIS DEVICE COMPLIES WITH PART 15 OF THE FCC RULES. OPERATION IS SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS: (1) THIS DEVICE MAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND (2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPT ANY INTERFERENCE RECEIVED, INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED OPERATION.

+-- --+

MODEL MRC44

LEVEL RESET

VIDEO

STATUS

K E Y P A D

LEFT RIGHT

SPEAKER

19 1616

VIDEO

STATUS

CONTROL

OUT

K E Y P A D

SPEAKER

+-- --+

LEFT RIGHT

CAUTION

NEUTRAL FUSING

+-- --+

FUSE 6 AMP

SLOW BLOW

AC 120V 60 HZ 3A

240 WATTS

Figure 3 – The Model MRC44 Controller/Amplifier – Rear Panel Features and Functions

5. Keypad Terminals. Each Zone has one RJ-45 jack for Keypad Interface. Each connector interfaces the

following: Power (Enough for 1 Primary & 1 Secondary Keypad per Zone), RS-422 Data I/O, and IR Input.

6. Speaker Terminals. Plug-in 4-terminal screw type connectors permit speaker wire sizes up to 12 gauge.

7. Composite Video Output. RCA type connector sends zone selected source v ideo to the composite video

input on a zone TV or modulator.

8. Status. Provides a control output of +12 VDC that turns on and off with the zone to drive v oltage sensing

relay modules and AC strips.

9. Control Out. 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.

10. 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:

x Mute Off x Treble and Bass Flat x Balance Centered x Z-Adjust Treble and Bass Flat x Z-Adjust Balance Centered x Z-Adjust Max-V Cleared x Trim Levels Cleared x IR Code Group set to 48

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.

11. Source Component Connections

a) Source Audio Inputs. Gold-plated RCA Jacks for line level audio input from source components.

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

c) Sense Inputs. 3.5mm Stereo Mini Phone Jacks for use with the CSM1 MRC44 Current Sense Module.

Model MRC44 Page: 9

12. IR Out (1-4). 3.5mm Mono Mini Phone Jacks. These mini jacks are for the connection of IR emitters to

control source components. These jacks are “steerable” with Dragon Drop-IR for IR routing and priority lockout. (See: Controller Options Programming.)

13. IR Out (Common). 3.5mm Mono Mini Phone Jacks. The Control Amp has a single Common IR Output that

can be used to control devices such as motorized drapery systems, TV lifts and lighting systems.

14. Com Port. DB9 Connector. This Serial Port is used to program the MRC44 Controller and Keypads using

the included Dragon Drop-IR Software from a PC. Also used for linking multiple MRC44 Controllers in Expanded Configurations.

15. IR Learning Eye. The IR Eye on the MRC44 Controller back panel allows teaching IR Codes to Dragon

Drop-IR via the Control Amp when connected to a PC from the com port.

16. User Replaceable Fuse. 6.25 AMP 250 VAC, Slow Blow Fuse (Domestic version). 3.15 AMP 250 VAC,

Time-Lag Fuse (European version).

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

line cord.

18. 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.

19. Power On/Off LED. This LED indicates the Main Power ON/OFF Condition of the MRC44 Controller.

Page: 10 Model MRC44

MRC44 KEYPAD FEATURE DESCRIPTIONS

24 22

POWER

STATUS

REW

26 27

PAUSE

SELECT

PLAY

STOP

VOL

MUTE

Figure 4 – The Model MRC44 Keypad – Front Panel Features and Functions

20. MRC44 Keypad.

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

22. IR Sensor. Receives IR from hand-held remotes to control both source components and the MRC44

system. A Programmable Learning Remote such as the Xantech URC2 is recommended for integrating the IR commands of the MRC44 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.

23. 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) Off=Zone OFF b) Steady Green=Zone ON c) Flash Green=Zone MUTE d) Flash Red=IR Sensor INPUT or Keypad OUTPUT e) Flash Amber=System BUSY

24. LCD Display. When the zone power is ON, the LCD will indicate the selected source, zone and system

status, zone volume level and other system conditions. The display is automatically backlit when any button is pressed.

25. Source 1 Selector. Selects source input 1, reverses source icon on LCD Display when source is selected

and sends IR commands programmed to this button (if any) to the source 1 and common emitter outputs. Also used in Dynamic Monitor Lockout and Dynamic Zone Link Modes.

Model MRC44 Page: 11

26. Source 2 Selector. Selects source input 2, reverses source icon on LCD Display when source is selected

and sends IR commands programmed to this button (if any) to the source 2 and common emitter outputs. Also used in Dynamic Monitor Lockout and Dynamic Zone Link Modes.

27. Source 3 Selector. Selects source input 3, reverses source icon on LCD Display when source is selected

and sends IR commands programmed to this button (if any) to the source 3 and common emitter outputs. Also used in Dynamic Monitor Lockout and Dynamic Zone Link Modes.

28. Source 4 Selector. Selects source input 4, reverses source icon on LCD Display when source is selected

and sends IR commands programmed to this button (if any) to the source 4 and common emitter outputs. Also used in Dynamic Monitor Lockout and Dynamic Zone Link Modes.

29. Vol

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

(non-programmable).

30. Vol

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

(non-programmable).

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

source and common emitter outputs.

32. CH

33. CH

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

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

34. Status. Displays zone and system status (zone/source activ ity, linked zones, audio setup, etc – non-

programmable).

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

selected source and common emitter outputs.

4337 36

Figure 5 – The Model MRC44 Keypad – Rear Panel Features and Functions

Page: 12 Model MRC44

36. Controller Terminal. RJ45 Jack. Connects Keypad to zone keypad input on MRC44 Controller via CAT5

cable.

37. Expansion Terminal. RJ45 Jack. Allows a second Keypad or external IR receiver for each zone.

38. Secondary Keypad. Jumper. Used to configure as secondary keypad in zone.

39. Zone Termination. Jumper. Do not remove jumper if there is only one keypad in a zone. If there are two

keypads in a zone, remove only from the first keypad.

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

41. IR Sensitivity Adjustment. Carefully adjust for background light level to prevent false triggering of the IR

circuits. Slowly turn counter-clockwise to reduce sensitiv ity.

42. 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 brightness.

43. Snap-in Pins. These pins snap into the MRC44 Keypad wall bracket for mounting.

OPERATION – OUT-OF-THE-BOX (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED)

The Controller/Amplifier Out-of-the-Box feature 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™. Programming for specific components and features follows.

1. Connect MRC44 Controller/Amplifier as shown in Figure 13 to:

a) MRC44 Keypads b) Speakers c) TVs or Monitors d) AC Power e) Sources f) IR emitters

2. Press “Power On” button on the front of the MRC44 Controller/Amplifier (wait for front panel LEDs to stop flashing – should be less than 20 seconds).

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

4. Turn on all sources and press play on all source components.

5. Press “POW ER” on the Zone 1 Keypad.

6. Select “SRC1” on the Zone 1 MRC44 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.

b) Press “VOL+” on the Zone 1 Keypad. The Volume bar should mov e 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) Repeat above for all zones and sources.

Model MRC44 Page: 13

INSTALLATION

MRC44 CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER PHYSICAL LOCATION AND MOUNTING (BASIC/ADVANCED)

When you mount the MRC44 Controller, you should plan its location carefully. Pay close attention to each of the following factors:

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.

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 MRC44's in a large multizone 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 MRC44's and the other heat generating components.

5. When mounting in a 19" (483mm) rack, adding a single RU (Rack Unit) spacer abov e and below the MRC44 will improve convection in heavy use applications.

[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 MRC44 is designed for mounting on flat horizontal surfaces. When mounting into a 19" rack, use a rack shelf or drawer.

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 used 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.

MRC44 KEYPAD PHYSICAL LOCATION AND MOUNTING (BASIC/ADVANCED/EXPANDED)

MRC44 Keypad

RJ45 Connector

Figure 6 - Mounting and Installing the MRC44 Keypad

Ground

Lug

Cat 5 Cable

To Earth Ground

Page: 14 Model MRC44

Keypad mounting for the MRC44 Keypad does not require a junction box. The MRC44 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 MRC44 mounting bracket and keypad: NOTE: Check local electrical codes. Some areas require a backbox in certain applications. For installations that require a backbox, see Xantech Part# MRCBOX. The MRC44 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. b. Using a level, make proper horizontal and v ertical marks on surface to be cut, to properly orient

template.

Figure 7 – MRC44 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

MRC44 Keypad.

Figure 8 – Installing the MRC44 Keypad mounting bracket in the wall

Model MRC44 Page: 15

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 screw,

before beginning the bracket installation process.

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

b. Run the supplied screws through the top (marked on the front of the bracket) of the mounting bracket

into the back-bar as shown in Figure 8.

c. Pull the CAT5 cable through the hole in the wall. d. Pull the CAT5 cable through the hole in the mounting bracket. e. Slide the left or right side of the back-bar into the wall. 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!

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 MRC44 keypad-according to Table 1 (Keypad connections).

5. Firmly snap the MRC44 Keypad into the bracket that you have just installed (see Figure 6).

6. Confirm all Keypad operations.

MRC44 KEYPAD REMOVAL

POWER

STATUS

REW

PAUSE

SELECT

PLAY

STOP

VOL

MUTE

Figure 9 – Removing the MRC44 Keypad from the wall

1. Insert the MRC44 keypad remov al 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.

Page: 16 Model MRC44

CONNECTING THE MRC44 CONTROLLER/AMPLIFIER

When making connections to the MRC44 Controller be sure the power cord is unplugged. Proceed as follows, referring to Figure 13 for Typical MRC44 System layout:

Source 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 LEFT and RIGHT INPUT jacks on the MRC44. Do this for each source component. Refer to Figure 13.

(EXPANDED)

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 LEFT and RIGHT INPUT jacks on a Xantech AV61 Audio/Video Distribution Amplifier. Connect the LEFT and RIGHT OUTPUT jacks of the AV61 to the appropriate LEFT and RIGHT INPUT jacks both MRC44 Controllers. Do this for each source component. Refer to Figure 24. See text: “Zone Expansion” AV61 Connections.

Video Connections (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 MRC44. Do this for each source Component. Refer to

Figure 13. (EXPANDED)

Using good quality RCA-type patch cables connect the VIDEO OUTPUT jacks of the source component to the VIDEO INPUT jacks on a Xantech AV61 Audio/Video Distribution Amplifier. Connect the VIDEO OUTPUT jacks of the AV61 to the appropriate VIDEO INPUT jacks both MRC44 Controllers. Do this for each source component. Refer to Figure 24. See text: “Zone Expansion” AV61 Connections.

IR Control Connections (BASIC/ADVANCED)

Plug the supplied 283M IR emitters into the appropriate IR out jacks. Be careful to match the source audio and video connection number on the MRC44 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 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.

(EXPANDED)

Connect the emitters as in Figure 24 using one 793-10 Serial Control Combiner for each common source component that is to be controlled by both Controllers. See text: “Zone Expansion” 793-10 Connections.

Sense 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. Plug the 3.5mm miniplug from the CSM1 into the appropriate sense jack. Be careful to match the source audio and video connection number on the MRC44 to the sense jack number. The CSM1 plugs into an AC power source. The component power cord plugs into the CSM1.

CSM1 Threshold Adjustments

a. Manually turn the component ON first. b. Using a small (1/8” wide) blade screwdriver, rotate the current control to a full counter-clockwise

position. c. Rotate the control clockwise until the Threshold Adjustment LED goes OFF. d. Manually turn the component OFF e. Rotate the control until the Threshold Adjustment LED just goes ON. f. Set the control to a point midway between these two settings. This should be the correct setting. NOTE 1: If the Threshold Adjustment LED does not go ON and OFF with the component power mode, make minor adjustments to the threshold adjust until the LED is in proper sync.

+ 36 hidden pages

Xantech MRC44 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual