AMX Distribution Matrix Octaire - Manual (Page 28)

Installation and Setup
24 Octaire Instruction Manual
Attaching External Control
Note: The Octaire has a fixed configuration that was programmed at the factory.
The Octaire can be controlled externally by attaching a control device that uses one of the
communication protocols listed below:
BCS (Basic Control Structure) – ASCII sent over a null modem serial cable via RS-232
XNNet – AMX AutoPatch protocol via RS-232
TCP/IP – See “Connecting to the APWeb Server” on page 35
In a multi-enclosure Octaire system, only the primary enclosure (with control panel) is enabled for
external control via the serial port or TCP/IP port. Serial ports on secondary enclosures are primarily
intended for single enclosure diagnostic information and system firmware upgrades. (The Octaire cannot
be controlled with a remote control panel.)
Control Options
The communication protocols listed above are used for these control options:
AMX Control Devices
The Octaire, which supports Device Discovery, is compatible with a number of AMX control devices.
For control programming information, see the instruction manual for the specific interface.
Important: Device Discovery functionality (beacon response) will only function properly if the
NetLinx master is connected to the RS-232 control port on the primary enclosure (the one with the
control panel).
APControl 3.0
APControl 3.0 software (for control and scheduling) runs on a PC connected to an Octaire via the serial
port (DB-9) on the primary enclosure and is available on the AMX AutoPatch CD.
APWeb (TCP/IP)
The APWeb server (for control, diagnostics, and third-party access) is accessed through a TCP/IP
interface such as a web browser (e.g., Internet Explorer). The Octaire TCP/IP port is used to access
APWeb. For connecting to the APWeb server, see page 35. For APWeb Server setup and operation
information, see the “APWeb – Initial Setup by Network Admin” chapter on page 67 and the “APWeb –
Controlling the Octaire” chapter (see page 87).
Important: Contact AMX regarding limitations and conditions for operating an Octaire on a company
LAN.
XNNet Protocol (Serial)
Advanced programmers who want to design their own control programs can use AMX AutoPatch
XNNet protocol. The AMX AutoPatch CD includes the XNNet Communication Library, an interface
library that supports C, Java, and Visual Basic with examples of the XNNet protocol in use.
BCS (Serial) Control
AMX AutoPatch has developed a command language, BCS (Basic Control Structure), for executing
control operations and for diagnostic purposes. BCS commands are issued via a terminal emulation
program, such as Windows
® HyperTerminal. For information on BCS commands, see the BCS Protocol
Instruction Manual on the AMX AutoPatch CD and at www.amx.com.
Third-Party Controllers (Serial)
Third-party controllers connect to the serial port (DB-9) on the right rear of the primary enclosure.
If using a third-party controller, see the controller documentation for setup and operating instructions.