3rd Edition

Control Systems Design Guide

•
3rd Edition
CONTROL SYSTEMS
DESIGN GUIDE

© 2018 Extron Electronics. All rights reserved. All trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. 08-2018
68-2146-01
Rev. F
English - NP
Extron and The History of AV Control
Extron pioneered configurable control for AV systems with simple software based on drag-and-drop commands.
This was during the early days of our IP Link control processors and our easy-to-use and economical MediaLink
controllers, which grew to be the leading choice in classrooms and conference rooms, worldwide. As the
demand grew for more sophisticated control applications, we introduced our Pro Series family, including the
industry’s most powerful configuration software, Global Configurator Professional. Pro Series hardware and
software work together to help AV integrators build intricate control systems in demanding environments
while maintaining the familiar simplicity of Extron user interfaces. During this time, behind the scenes, we were
also developing something that would take AV control even further – programming. Extron control system
programming is based on Python, which is the same, rock-solid platform we have been using all along for
our Pro Series family. Python is an object-oriented language that is inherently clean, easily readable, and
editable. Extron Global Scripter is an integrated development environment that works with our ControlScript
programming library to harness the power of Python and provide a comprehensive and powerful solution for
creating refined and innovative AV systems. Whether it is the convenience of configuration with the industry’s
most powerful configuration-based control system solution, or the unbridled versatility of Extron Control System
Programming, we have made certain that you have the right solution for any AV application.

Extron Worldwide Sales Offices

USA West USA East Europe Middle East South Africa

India Asia China Japan Korea

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTROL SYSTEM STRATEGIES

Getting Back to Basics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Designing Better Control Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Designing for Control System Satisfaction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Five Efficient Design Strategies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Choosing the Best Methods for Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
AV in Smart Buildings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Bring Your Own Device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Communication Signals & Infrastructure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Understanding Network Security Protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
The Modern Workspace - Collaboration is Key. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Extron Partnerships - Seamless Integration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Making Choices: Control System Size and Scope. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Graphical User Interface Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Control Hardware Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Exploring the Control Ports on Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Control Software Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Room Scheduling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

CONTROL SYSTEM DESIGNS

Huddle Room. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Simple Classroom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Room Scheduling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Computer Lab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Videoconference Room with Cisco Touch 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Web Conference Room with Zoom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Lecture Capture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Small Divisible Room. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Distance Learning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
House of Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Large Divisible Room. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Convention Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Building Management System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

GLOSSARY

AV Control Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

www.extron.com 1
Getting Back to Basics

Professional AV has evolved substantially over the last decade. technical servicing for years to come. It doesn’t get much simpler
It seems just a short while ago we were counting down to the than that. If, on the other hand, the product is customer-facing,
analog sunset as we ushered in the age of digital AV. More a control interface, for example, Extron ensures uncompromised
recently, we’ve witnessed the increasing interplay between AV and ease of use based on extensive usability testing and decades of
IT, the push toward data acquisition for enterprise-level reporting user interface design success. Our software solutions employ the
and analytics, and the dramatic drive toward automation, same thoughtful design practices, providing intuitive yet powerful
collaboration, and the integration of unified communications. functionality for a broad variety of professional AV applications.
All these advancements and trends march alongside the familiar
basics of simplification, system security, and, of course, the System Security
ever-present goal of complete customer satisfaction. So why Extron helps organizations tackle security challenges beginning
is it important to keep these basic elements in mind? Because with our Pro Series control processors – the central component of
regardless of what technology is used for your project, end-user our AV control systems. These high-performance, secure control
satisfaction ultimately defines its success. processors enhance control system capabilities and complete
a control ecosystem that is secure by design. This dedication to
Simplification security is carried throughout the Extron family of products. Our
By its very definition, AV control strives to simplify. This can control processors, featuring a dedicated AV LAN port, offer an
be demonstrated as easily as choosing one of our MediaLink extra layer of security by segregating local AV devices from the
controllers to replace remote controls in a classroom, or, on a rest of the network. This helps safeguard these devices from
grander scale, by implementing enterprise-wide AV management, outside intrusion or interference.
monitoring, and control using GlobalViewer Enterprise and a full
complement of our Pro Series control systems. Regardless of Complete Customer Satisfaction
scope, the goal remains the same – provide high-quality, reliable Extron invests significant time in studying the way people
AV systems that are easy to integrate, easy to implement, and interact with our products, then develops solutions that use
easy to use. Another way to achieve simplification is through innovative technologies to improve their overall experience.
product reliability - to make sure products work the first time Often this involves creating a new product, but sometimes we
and every time. If the chosen Extron product is one that remains simply enhance an existing platform. Our recent partnership
hidden, doing its work behind the scenes, then that product will with Zoom Video Communications is a good example of how
deliver continuous service, usually with no user interaction or even we improved the user experience without requiring training on a

­2 Control Systems Design Guide

new technology. We took a standard Zoom Rooms interface and connect via video chat, and share content easily from whatever
added one-touch, intuitive AV device control. This partnership device they have with them. The article explores how these
launches a new level of convenience, providing turn-key, companies leverage space and technology to achieve their
centralized control of AV devices, shades, lighting, audio, and collaboration goals.
much more. All of this is, of course, backed up by our 100%
Customer Satisfaction Guarantee. That’s another thing that, Control Products Overview provides a summary of Extron
regardless of where all this rapidly-advancing technology takes us, controllers, control processors, button panels, and touchpanels.
will never change.
The Control Software Overview looks at Extron’s powerful suite
Articles of Interest Within This Guide of configuration and programming software, as well as resource
System designers understand the benefits of choosing efficient management software, and applications, utilities, and device
products. In the section, Five Efficient Design Strategies, we drivers.
examine several ways in which system design strategies can add
value to AV integrations. Extron Room Scheduling discusses the convenience of
TouchLink Scheduling Panels and how easy it is to reserve
AV in Smart Buildings examines the growing trend in building meeting spaces across your enterprise.
automation, addresses integration challenges, and helps
demystify BMS - Building Management Systems protocols. The Control System Designs section presents 13 control
environments that demonstrate the versatility and power in our
The section Understanding Network Security Protocols new Pro Series control systems. Designs range in complexity
discusses the precautions that must be taken and the security from simple, single-projector classrooms to large, sophisticated
methodologies that should be understood in order to make your presentation environments, and emphasize the unique challenges
AV system as secure as possible. of each type of application.

The Modern Workspace - Collaboration is Key looks at how Regardless of your place within the AV industry, we think you'll
today's knowledge workers and students expect to be able to agree that this Guide will find a prominent place in your AV
work together in small groups, participate in conference calls, "toolbox."

A Complete Package Choices

Centralized room control, Ethernet Choose configuration or
monitoring and control, remote programming, depending
diagnostic on your application needs

Security Easy Access

All IP Link Pro Control processors Gigabit Ethernet ensures
support enhanced security compatibility with a standard
protocols CONTROL PROCESSOR network infrastructure
COM LAN
RTS 1 2 3
eBUS IR/S I/O RELAYS
CTS
1000
S LIMIT 1 1 2 1 2
R Tx IR LINK
Rx ACT
OVER 1 2 3 2 3 4 3 4

Modern Design Tools

Pro Series products are thoughtfully and Thousands of device drivers
efficiently designed inside and out and modules to streamline
control system integration

Extron Pro Series Control Benefits

www.extron.com 3
Designing Better Control Systems

What does it take to design a better control system? System Let the Goals Dictate Innovation
designers accustomed to time-tested strategies may not feel the Another aspect of system design that dramatically affects
need to deviate from their familiar workflow; yet sometimes a little the direction the design takes is the level of innovation that is
change of routine is a good thing. A simple way of examining your required by the project. Is the project highly conceptual and
routine is to ask yourself a couple of questions. groundbreaking, or is it an adaptation or revision to an existing
design? Or does the project fall somewhere in the middle? The
The first question is: “How does the end user regularly use the ways in which we approach each of these project types may
system?” This is a good place to use the 80/20 rule; which be completely different. Different expectations are set within the
suggests that 80% of the time we use 20% of the system's development team and with the client. Perhaps even different
capabilities. To apply this rule, define what your client does 80% of resources are allocated or different people are selected for the job.
the time and work with the customer to make those functions as Knowing the level of innovation that the members of your team
accessible and intuitive as possible. bring to the table helps you identify the right people for the job.

Secondly, it’s important to ask, “What are the critical functions Custom or Customized?
that rarely occur, but must function flawlessly?” These features are The level of innovation must fit the goals expressed by actual
considered “edge scenarios,” but because of their critical nature users. Think about the age-old “form follows function” principle
need to be present in the system with rock-solid functionality. of design. The principle is that the shape of a building or object
A good example of a critical but rarely used function is tying the should be primarily based upon its intended function or purpose.
system's audio mute into the fire alarm system. You hope this life Successful designs, like that of the Airstream trailer, for instance,
safety system is never needed and, for most customers, it never follow this principle, while those that miss the mark, such as the
will be; but when it is needed, it must operate flawlessly. DeLorean sports car, age rapidly and are quickly abandoned.
If we bill and market our services as “customized” rather than
Too often we see specifications for control systems that state, “custom”, we can ever so subtly change the perception of what
“The control system shall control all controllable audio and video we do. We can use tried and true modules and methods rather
equipment and must provide control for all functions available." Is than continually creating new processes and new designs. Often
that realistic? Is it necessary? Does it serve the end user's best the art is not in the innovation as much as it is the application of
interests? experience.

Clearly Define Goals Extron is Here to Help

Organizing strategies into recognizable and achievable goals is Finally, remember that Extron is here to help. Our Control System
crucial to the success of any modern AV system design. We talk Hotline is staffed by experts that are here for you 24/7 for help
a lot about efficient system designs in this Guide to reinforce the with system designs, product recommendations, and making the
notion of “designing for control,” but also to help streamline your most efficient system possible.
routines and improve end-user experiences. One way to achieve
efficient system design is to use the “less is more” methodology.
Less can mean fewer buttons to push, but it can also mean using
the right combination of software and hardware to make your
job easier while ensuring customer satisfaction. With powerful,
advanced configuration and programming software like Extron’s
GC Pro and Global Scripter, one can implement intelligent if-then
scenarios. This not only makes a system “smarter,” it provides
end-users with powerful, yet easy-to-use control. As you’ll read
later in the article, Five Efficient Design Strategies, there are
several other best practices for implementing clearly defined goals
into your next system design.

­4 Control Systems Design Guide

Designing for Control System Satisfaction

Roles and Goals in AV System Design

Control systems are the bridge between complicated technology and human interaction. A well-designed control system removes the
complexity of today’s diverse technologies and provides a simple interface that users can easily understand and use.

When designing AV and control systems, we must be aware of our goals in the design process, as well as those of the people that will
ultimately use the system. In doing so, it’s important to take into account both professional and personal goals. Within the context of
control systems, professional goals are centered on how the control system is used to complete a task. Personal goals revolve around
how people feel about using the control system. Overall satisfaction is what determines whether the customer will look for similar or
alternative solutions the next time a need arises.

Designing for control ultimately comes down to usability. You can design the best AV system with the cleanest audio and display. Your
racks can be an inspiration to your colleagues. But all of this is lost if the human interaction component doesn’t meet the needs of those
users that depend upon its simplicity. Below is a table that describes a common set of professional and personal goals for the individuals
that experience AV control on a daily basis.

User Roles in a Control System Design Scenario

Design Scenario - Videoconference: Smithfield and Associates is a legal firm with offices in several major cities across the United
States. They want to add a new Video Conference Suite to their Chicago offices. The video conference suite will seat up to five people.
The video conference system will use a single camera, and they will need to share content from five laptop locations at the conference
table, a PC, and a media player in a cabinet at the front of the room.

PROFESSIONAL GOALS PERSONAL GOALS

PRESENTER

Deliver an effective presentation Feel confident when presenting today’s technology

Host and participate in effective conference calls Feel as if the technology works for him and not against him
AV ADMINISTRATOR

Keep trouble calls low – especially those that are user error Feel confident when using AV technology

Solve problems with the AV system quickly Confidently deploy AV systems throughout his organization
AV RESELLER

Be competitive in today’s AV marketplace Make the customer happy with the AV system that he provides

Establish business relationships that ensure repeat business Have confidence in the AV products and solutions that he sells
AV SYSTEM DESIGNER
Deliver an AV system design that matches the needs and scope Design a more efficient system than his previous designs and
of the customer those of his colleagues and competitors

Add value by designing the AV system with efficiency Be the go-to person because of his expertise in AV design
AV CONTROL SYSTEM DEVELOPER

Efficiently provide control solutions for AV designs Make the customer happy

Satisfy the customers’ needs and requirements - pre and Be confident he can solve all the problems and challenges he
post sale faces when doing his job

Become the first choice when people need to get the job done

This table describes a common set of professional and personal goals for individuals who experience AV Control Systems on a daily basis.

www.extron.com 5
Five Efficient Design Strategies

1 Control Processors with AV LAN Ports

Using IP Link Pro Control Processors with AV LAN Ports in your system designs
adds another layer of security to your AV systems. The AV equipment placed on the
AV LAN is isolated on a separate physical network from the corporate LAN. The
control processor can still be accessed and controlled from the corporate LAN from
Extron GVE - GlobalViewer Enterprise and applications such as Extron Control.
The program running on the control processor can access the AV equipment on
both the corporate LAN and the AV LAN, but only the AV equipment that needs to
be accessed from the corporate network resides on the corporate
network. Since devices on the AV network cannot initiate contact
with any device or service on the corporate network, your systems
are isolated and secure.

2 Central Deployment
Central Deployment is Extron’s new and enhanced
method for deploying configured and programmed control
systems. Central Deployment loads all of the project SWITCHED
12 VDC
COM

RTS IR/SERIAL RELAYS FLEX

IPCP PRO 550

eBUS
I/O

files for a configuration or program to the primary control

1 2 LIMIT
CTS
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 S LIMIT
1000
R Tx Tx LINK
IR
Rx Rx ACT
3 4 OVER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 3 4 OVER

processor, which in turn connects to the secondary

control processors and TouchLink Pro touchpanels to
initialize ports and load the user interface files.
Load Configuration/Program to Primary Control Processor

The primary control processor is the definitive authority for

the latest version of all files in the control system. Since IPL PRO S3
COM

the primary control processor retains all of the project

RTS

CTS 1000
R Tx LINK
Rx ACT
1 2 3

files, a secondary control processor or TouchLink Pro

touchpanel can be paired with the primary processor
after the system has been deployed. The primary
IPCP PRO 550
COM
SWITCHED RTS IR/SERIAL RELAYS FLEX eBUS
12 VDC I/O
CTS 1000

Network
1 2 LIMIT 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 S LIMIT
R Tx Tx LINK
IR
Rx Rx ACT
3 4 OVER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 3 4 OVER

control processor will automatically load and initialize the

secondary control processor or touchpanel without having
to reload the entire system.

Add Secondary Control Processors and Touchpanels at a

later time and/or date and the conguration/program can
be loaded to those devices

­6 Control Systems Design Guide

3 Switchers with a Built-in Control Processor
Extron switchers that feature built-in control processors offer a
number of benefits for today’s AV system designs. Switchers
like the DTP CrossPoint 108 4K IPCP SA and IN1608 xi IPCP
SA contain a switcher, audio DSP, amplifier and an IP Link Pro
control processor with a 3-port AV LAN switch in a single three
rack-unit enclosure, saving you at least two rack-units of space in
your equipment rack.
DTP CrossPoint 108 4K IPCP SA
They make it easier to standardize AV System designs and
deployments in environments like colleges and universities with a
large number of identical rooms. These "all-in-one" type products
also aid in the ordering process by utilizing a single SKU or part
number rather than breaking out each item separately.

IN1608 xi IPCP SA

4 Utilizing Control Groups

"Control Groups" or "Controller Groups" allow you to COM
IPL PRO S6
Ethernet Ethernet COM
IPL PRO S3
RTS

expand the number of control ports beyond the number of

RTS
CTS 1000 CTS 1000
R Tx LINK R Tx LINK
Rx ACT Rx ACT
1 2 3 4 5 6 3
1 2

IPL Pro S6 IPL Pro S3

physical ports on a single control processor. It also allows
you to locate control end points at equipment you are Ethernet Ethernet
IPCP PRO 250 IPCP PRO 350
COM COM LAN
RTS RTS 1 2 3
eBUS IR/S I/O RELAYS eBUS IR/S I/O RELAYS
1000 1000
CTS CTS
S LIMIT 1 2 1 S LIMIT 1 1 2 1 2
R IR LINK
Tx R Tx IR LINK
Rx ACT Rx ACT

trying to control and control the equipment over a standard

OVER 1 2 3 4 2 OVER 1 2 3 2 3 4 3 4

IPCP Pro 250 IPCP Pro 350

Combined port count when Controller Group used
Ethernet network.
32 Ethernet ports, 14 Serial ports, 3 IR/Serial ports, 8 Digital I/O’s, 6 Relays

5 eBUS – The Easiest Way to Deploy and Expand AV System Control

Today’s AV systems can be pretty complex, and a lot of time can
be spent designing and deploying an AV system. eBUS offers a
robust four-wire communications bus that addresses its devices
using simple DIP switches. Global Configurator Plus/Pro and
Global Scripter show you the DIP switch positions for any eBUS
address. eBUS devices can be wired in several different topologies
and can be powered either locally or remotely depending upon
their distance from their control processor, and are compatible
with standard electrical boxes. eBUS devices are a simple way to
add control over several key functions of the AV system at room
entrances and lectern locations.

www.extron.com 7
Choosing the Best Methods for Control

A device’s control requirements are often dictated by the device manufacturer. AV devices originate from a variety of different
manufacturers and access to their control functions can vary widely.

There are some devices, like laptops, that were never meant to be automated as part of an AV control system, yet they appear
regularly as sources within a system. These devices always require some type of local control to make them function. Then there are
those components that may only be controlled by the manufacturer who made them. Typically, these devices require a combination of
manufacturer specific hardware, software, and infrastructure to make them function appropriately.

Sometimes, AV device control can be difficult because a device that you want to control does not respond to commands or requires
special treatment to work as expected. Thankfully, there are AV devices that fall into the control-friendly category, where well-documented
control protocols, procedures, and commands make it easier to assemble a fully functioning system. In many cases, a device has only
one primary method of control. Yet, when there are multiple ways a device can be controlled, how do you, the designer, decide which
method to use?

Make a Determination Where We Find AV Control

1. The first step is to determine what you need that device to do RS-232/422/485: Video Projectors, Commercial Flat Panel
within the scope of the AV system. Displays, Pro DVD, VTC Codec, Cameras, Matrix Switchers,
2. The second step is to determine what functions are available DSPs, Lighting Controllers
for each method of control. IR/Serial: Blu-ray, DVD, VTC Codec, Media Players, Switchers,
3. And the last step is to determine which method is going to Cameras, Flat Panel Displays, Video Projectors
provide you with the simplest, most reliable way to achieve Ethernet: Video Projectors, VTC Codec, Media Players, Matrix
those goals. Switchers, DSPs, Lighting Controllers
Relays: Screens, Projector Lifts, Switchers, Power Controllers,
Consider a video conferencing codec. Hardware codecs may be
Lighting Controllers
controlled via an IR remote, RS-232 control port, or an Ethernet
connection. Let’s assume that each method of control is equally Digital Inputs/Outputs: Motion Sensors
accessible to install. Analog Inputs: Temperature Sensors, Limit Switches,
Door Sensors
If the user only desires to emulate the functions available on the IR
remote, the simplest solution may be to control the codec via IR.
Need More Power?
The IPCP Pro 550 and the IPCP Pro 555 are Extron’s most advanced
If the user wants to see an “Incoming Call” notification on the control processors. They both have eight serial data ports, eight
touchpanel, then IR would be eliminated and RS-232 or Ethernet unidirectional IR/serial ports, eight low voltage relay ports, four Flex I/O
would be required. ports, four switched 12 V power ports, and a gigabit Ethernet port as
well as an eBUS port for system expansion. Additionally, the
IPCP Pro 555 features an AV LAN port designed to control local AV
If the IT department wanted to place the control system on a devices, and safeguard them from outside intrusion or interference.
separate IP network than the codec, then RS-232 would be the Both the IPCP Pro 550 and the IPCP Pro 555 work with Global
most direct and reliable method to control the codec. Configurator Plus or Professional as well as Global Scripter allowing for
streamlined system deployment.

­8 Control Systems Design Guide

 RS-232/422/485 IR/Serial Ethernet
1 2 3
Wired bidirectional serial data interface. IR is a wireless one-way interface that Bidirectional serial data interface over an
Commands are formatted and sent typically uses an IR emitter wired to the Ethernet network. Commands are formatted
between the controller and the device. controller and affixed to the front of the and sent between the controller and the
RS-232 has a maximum distance of device. These require an IR driver or the device. The device can be located anywhere
50 ft. (15 m). RS-422, and RS-484 have a “capture” of the IR remote’s codes as a as long as it is accessible over the network.
maximum distance of 4000 ft. (1200 m). custom driver. IR/Serial ports are software- Communications relies on the setup,
configurable and can act as a unidirectional configuration, and infrastructure of the network.
serial port in addition to IR.

1
4
WHERE WE FIND
AV CONTROL

6
ESC
SWITCHER
CONTROL
VIEW
SERIES
SMX
15 PRESET

14 ENTER MAIN

13 P
O
W I/O
CARDS

12
E
R

16
CONFIG

11 15
10 14
500
SELECT
9
IPL

I/O
PLANE
8 13 16 Processor

12 15
Control 100

7
11 14
LINK

6 E-BUS IR ACT

10 13
LIMIT

5
ACT
INPUTS FLEX

9
I/O2

4 12 1
OVER

8 11
4

3
RELAY
3
2 4

7 10
1 3

2 6 9
IR/S3
4
7
8

1
2 6
DVI RTS 1 5

0 5 8 304
SCALER COM
CTS
7
8

7
DVSRGB
4
TX 6
5
OUTPUTS AND RX

3 6 VIDEOADJUST
7
8

2 5
6
5
4

4
TX

1
3
2 LIMIT
SWITCHED
12VDC 2
1 RX 1
IR

3 4
OVER

2 R
3

1 NEXT

MENU
1002
XPA
4

2
1 LIMITER/PROTECT
SIGNAL
OVER
TEMP

HSA
402

125
- 50/60
Hz
5A

PHONE AUDIO
IN

DATA
COMPUTER

IN

MTP
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MTP
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Extron
IP Link Pro
Control
Processor
3

Extron
TouchLink Pro
Touchpanel

Relays Digital Inputs/Outputs Analog Inputs

4 5 6
Relays interface with devices that provide Digital inputs are designed to measure Analog inputs are driven by a change in a
contact closure interfaces. Relays are two states: high or low, and are used to voltage from devices such as temperature
simple controls and do not provide any introduce devices such as switches or sensors.
direct feedback. Relays typically control low motion sensors into the system. Digital
voltage motor controls like screens, drapes, outputs are very similar in function to relays.
shades, lifts, and AV devices with contact They can complete a circuit for control like
closure interfaces like AV switches and a relay, and can drive LED feedback in the
lighting controls. control environment, i.e. mute feedback
LEDs.

www.extron.com 9
AV in Smart Buildings

Building Management Systems - BMS

BMS
Smart buildings employ a number of automated processes that Network

work together to regulate and control vital building systems, BMS Gateway
including HVAC, lighting, power, utility use, and closed-circuit
cameras. This technology is comprised of devices and BMS –
Building Management Systems that can “speak” to one another
and carry out complex instructions based on the current state Extron Control
System
of various subsystems. This kind of communication requires
software and hardware that can coordinate, monitor, and control Lighting Control AV Control
via the building’s network. HVAC Control Closed Circuit
Camera Control
Power Control
Until recently, BMS and AV have remained essentially in their own
worlds. BMS providers have been busy developing and creating Most Extron IP Link Pro control processors support popular BMS
communication protocols to support the control of lighting, protocols, such as BACnet, KNX, and DALI in the form of device
security and environmental controls to meet the operating needs drivers or modules, with no additional hardware or firmware needs.
of their clients. This approach to gathering information about the These protocols allow for centralized monitoring and control of
operational environment allows decision makers to have more mechanical and electrical systems that include HVAC, lighting,
access to controls and information. AV integrators have been on power, fire, and security. Legacy Extron control processors
a separate yet parallel track with a focus on the technology that with Ethernet capability can be used for building management
is physically closer to a building’s occupants. AV and computing in conjunction with GlobalViewer or GlobalViewer Enterprise
technology is more hands on, whereas building control was once software. GlobalViewer Enterprise provides the ability to create
only relegated to facility managers and operations personnel. global monitors and schedules allowing one to configure their AV
system to do a global shutdown. For example, you can configure all
There is a natural blend that occurs as the decision-making and projectors on a college campus or within an office building to shut
management of these technologies begin to use similar protocols, down at 10 PM, or you can schedule window shades to be drawn
networks and information sharing capabilities. At Extron, we during the heat of the day to reduce energy costs.
know that, for all of these complex systems to work together, a
well-planned, integrated BMS network must be partnered with Blending BMS and AV requires cooperation among all key players.
a compatible and robust AV infrastructure. Extron’s Pro Series This means AV companies should design products with BMS
control systems and GlobalViewer Enterprise software support all in mind, and keep an eye on trends so that compatibility is built
popular BMS protocols and help coordinate, monitor, and control into new products and existing products are easily adapted to
the multitude of subsystems that comprise today’s smart building changing protocols. We are at the start of another exciting AV
platforms. evolution with great potential for growth and partnerships.

Popular Building Management Systems Protocols

BMS
Building Management Systems - Maintain secure, often proprietary infrastructures, but rely on interoperability using common
Communication
protocols such as BACnet, KNX, and DALI communication protocols to integrate their broad variety of subsystems.
Protocols

Building Automation and Control Networking Protocol - A standard protocol in more than 30 countries, BACnet contains the
BACnet
capabilities for HVAC, closed-circuit camera control, lighting control, and many other building automation systems.

KNX is the convergence of three previous standards: The European Home Systems Protocol (EHS), BatiBUS, and the
KNX European Installation Bus (EIB or Instabus) and is designed to be independent of any particular hardware platform.
KNX combines all main building functions like lighting, heating, air-conditioning or shading into one intelligent system.

Digital Addressable Lighting Interface – Uses BUS style communications for lighting control. DALI networks are comprised of
DALI
a controller and one or more lighting devices and support up to 64 linked devices through gateways.

­10 Control Systems Design Guide

Bring Your Own Device

Start Create Control

Start with an Extron IPCP Pro Series Create your custom user interface Control what you want, when you
control processor with LinkLicense and configure your control system want, with your own devices and no
included, or add LinkLicense to an using Global Configurator Plus or hidden costs
existing IPCP Pro control processor Professional

Extron LinkLicense – Your Device Puts You in Control

Best Practices for BYOD

A successful BYOD implementation relies on a well-planned For even more flexibility and user interface customization options,
strategy supported by creative tactics. While effective Extron LinkLicense® for User Interfaces allows a mobile device or
communication has always been an important component laptop to be used as the primary control interface in an Extron Pro
to AV integration, the growing popularity of BYOD highlights Series control system. This option gives integrators the freedom
the importance of the AV – IT alliance. System designers and to choose or create custom control interfaces based on their
integrators must prepare strategies and communicate early customers’ specific needs and simplifies the deployment of BYOD
and often with technology managers – walking them through control designs. Extron LinkLicense for User Interfaces coupled
the project details and guiding expectations for BYOD integration with IPCP Pro control processors establish a foundation for
needs. standardized, enterprise-wide BYOD deployment.

As part of this process, technology managers should Regardless of the solution you choose, the following best
encourage AV integrators to choose a BYOD-friendly AV practices apply to deploying BYOD within your organization.
control systems that:
•O
 nce a network is open to personal devices, the risk of security
• Offer simple, cost-effective licensing threats increases exponentially. Become educated about the
potential network security challenges inherent in BYOD.
•O
 ffer users the freedom they desire to control devices from
room to room or across an enterprise using the standard •A
 s more players come to market with BYOD AV control
network infrastructure solutions, it’s important for tech managers and AV integrators to
remain focused on simplicity, scalability, cost, and the quality of
•A
 re scalable and flexible enough to ensure long-term success customer service that these AV companies provide.
with minimal concern about obsolescence
•C
 onsider the benefits of bulk-purchasing apps. iOS Apps can
be bulk purchased from Apple, allowing an administrator to buy
An increasing number of AV companies offer BYOD solutions
these and distribute redemption codes to simplify individual app
for room control. Extron control products are ready for turnkey
purchases.
mobile device integration, and they provide easy-to-implement
BYOD options that satisfy all the guidelines above. One option
links an iOS or Android device with the room’s existing TouchLink
Pro touchpanel and, through the installed Extron Control App,
provides an additional point of control that duplicates the existing
touchpanel interface. Using the existing Wi-Fi network, users
experience the freedom of mobile control within their room or from
room-to-room.

www.extron.com 11
Communication Signals & Infrastructure

What is the Control Signal Format?

Ethernet
Once you have determined the equipment to be controlled and the methods to control it, you can take a
closer look at the actual control signals and infrastructure required to get those signals from the control PoE
processor to the device being controlled.
Wireless Ethernet

Some methods are pretty simple. Contact closures require two conductors to make contact and
RS-232/422/485
complete a circuit. Some methods, including Ethernet control, require additional hardware and
coordination with the client’s IT department. Both have their place in today’s AV control system, but you Infrared
needs to be aware of each of the requirements and their impact on the project.
Flex I/Os

Control Systems Communications, Signals & Infrastructure Relays &

Contact Closures
We know how we need to control the AV equipment in our system, but what limitations do we need to
consider in getting the control signals to the AV equipment that we are controlling? What do we need Power Voltage
to consider when specifying the cable to carry that signal? What can be done to accommodate these
CEC
parameters?
eBUS

Common Control Systems Signals and Accommodation Strategies

Ethernet
Extron
Today’s Ethernet networks use Unshielded Twisted Pair cable - TLP Pro 1220TG
12" Tabletop TouchLink
PoE Network
Switch
Pro Touchpanel Ethernet Ethernet
UTP. UTP is inexpensive, easily obtained, and easy to install. UTP Monday, December 16, 2013 7:04 AM

Contacts
Name
Andrew
Sources
+ -
Key
800.633.9876

Menu Delete
Document
Camera
Beth 1 2 3

is categorized by the number of wire pairs, and its rated speed.

ABC DEF

Charlie Video Window

4
GHI
5 JKL MNO
6
David
Ervin
7
PQRS
8 TUV WXYZ
9
Frank 0
Greg End
Call
Call

Full
Harold Screen
Privacy

Kevin

Video Conference
Enter Zoom Near
Mike In End

Andrew
Zoom Far 123

Out End
Camera Display Presets

Most current installations use Category – Cat 5e or Cat 6 wire.

(800) 633 - 9876

Codec

Extron
Ethernet is terminated using RJ-45 connectors of the same rating IPL Pro S6
IP Link Pro Control Processor
as the cable. It is important to coordinate the type of cable used RTS

CTS
COM
IPL PRO S6

1000
R Tx LINK

for a project with the client’s IT department, as using a lower

Rx ACT
1 2 3 4 5 6

Displays

grade cable and/ or connectors can de-rate a segment of the

network and reduce overall network performance.

Most products on an AV network communicate using telnet which

is a network protocol used either on local area networks or on the
internet to provide a bidirectional communications using a virtual impacts on corporate network performance. Understandably, the
terminal connection. Once a telnet connection is established to idea of just connecting a number of network-dependent AV boxes
the remote host, your client becomes a virtual terminal that allows to their network can be unnerving.
you to communicate to the remote host from your computer.
In the AV world, Ethernet communications can be equally
All Ethernet devices have dedicated cable runs to an Ethernet hub unnerving. AV installers are typically responsible for the installation
or switch. The connection of Ethernet endpoints to a series of and operations of all facets of the AV system, and are responsible
hubs, switches, routers, and bridges makes up the network. The for the design and specification of all equipment in the system.
layout and design of the network should be done by a network Having another group to answer to and gain approval from can
certified professional. be added stress on already tight deadlines. Subnets, managed
switches and routers, firewalls, equipment, and protocols outside
IT managers tend to regard AV systems with caution. In a typical the AV installer’s control add another layer of complexity to an
scenario, IT departments beta test systems on their networks already complex system where traditional diagnostic techniques
to determine the network impact and to prevent any adverse may not help.

­12 Control Systems Design Guide

Power over Ethernet - PoE Wireless Ethernet
Power over Ethernet - PoE is an IEEE specification for powering Wireless Ethernet devices are common in today’s AV systems.
Ethernet devices over their standard Category cabling. PoE This technology allows Ethernet networks to be extended to
devices are typically smaller Ethernet appliances that do not locations where it may not be easy to pull the necessary cables.
consume much power. PoE devices outside the AV industry might It also gives Ethernet-enabled devices a degree of portability. Like
include Wireless Access Points – WAPs, Voice over IP - VoIP wired Ethernet devices, wireless Ethernet devices have a level
phones, and PTZ cameras. However, the number of PoE devices of physical or hardware compatibility, and a logical or software
within the AV Industry is growing. All of Extron’s TouchLink Pro compatibility.
models, in addition to the smaller IP Link Pro control processors
support PoE. These products can either be powered using PoE or
an external power supply.

PoE currently has two specifications IEEE 802.3af and IEEE

802.3at, which is considered PoE+. Certain Extron devices,
such as our smaller TouchLink Pro touchpanels and IPL Series
control processors use the 802.3af standard. 802.3af provides
up to 15.4 W of DC power to each device. Our 12" and
WAP 100 AC
15" touchpanels use IEEE 802.3at as these require more power.
802.3at provides up to 25.5W of power. Our 17" touchpanels fall
outside of the PoE+ specification; thus we provide a high-power There are six major wireless Ethernet standards: IEEE 802.11a,
injector for these models. 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac and 802.11ac Wave 2.
Additionally, there are several new standards in development
Extron estimated to be released in the next few years. Many times,
XTP PI 100
Power Injector Extron wireless Ethernet devices will support multiple standards, for
TLP Pro 525M
100-240V 50/60 Hz
0.4A MAX
5" Wall Mount TouchLink Pro example, 802.11a/b/g/n. The wireless device that you are adding
XTP XTP PWR
Touchpanel
to your system must be linked to a Wireless Access Point - WAP
PWR

that has a compatible wireless standard. For example, a wireless

From Network
device that supports 802.11a/b/g/n must be linked to WAP that
To TLP Pro 525M
supports all or one of the 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n
standards.
TCP/IP
Network

Work with the IT department when placing WAPs. Poorly-placed

WAPs can interfere with the communications of corporate WAPs
PoE systems require power to be injected into the Ethernet and cause a variety of communications problems.
network using a PoE switch or a PoE injector. You cannot inject
and distribute Power over Ethernet into a standard hub or switch The logical side of the wireless network has many similarities to
and expect the power to be distributed from the hub or switch's the wired Ethernet network, plus a whole new level of security.
ports. The IT department will govern the security protocols used in the
wireless network, the naming of WAPs, and the IP addressing of
PoE allows power to be distributed to devices where mounting all the Ethernet devices associated with the network.
a power supply would be difficult or impossible, or that would
require running a separate power cable. PoE uses that same Wireless Ethernet devices can be a great asset to AV control
Category UTP cable used for Ethernet data and the same RJ-45 systems, but they do require an extra measure of coordination
cable termination, saving time and money. with the client’s IT department.

www.extron.com 13
Communication Signals & Infrastructure

RS-232/422/485
RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485 are generally point-to-point
communications signals. While some devices may allow the
RS-232 signal to be daisy-chained, Extron typically assigns
one RS-232/422/485 controlled device per port on the Extron
controller.

RS-232 has a maximum cable length of about 50 ft. (15 m),

depending on cable and baud rates. The destination device Captive Screw Connectors
will specify pins and the type of connector used for RS-232
communications. The most common is a three-conductor, but the male end. Null cables typically are terminated with a female
it is important to consult the destination devices manual to see DB-9 on both ends. Pins 2 and 3 are connected on each end and
the device's requirements. Extron Device Driver Communication pin 5 is connected to pin 5 on each end.
Sheets can be a great resource for connecting devices to a
control processor. RS-422 uses a balanced signal for transmit and receive and can
transmit data up to 4000 ft. (1200 m).
Cables are wired as straight-through or null. Straight-through
cables typically are terminated with a female DB-9 on one end of RS-485 is used for multidrop communications links. It utilizes the
the cable and a male DB-9 on the other end. Pins 2, 3, and 5 on same balanced signal that is used with RS-422 and supports data
the female end are connected to pins 2, 3, and 5 respectively on rates up to 10 Mbit/s and distances up to 4000 ft. (1200 m).

Infrared Flex I/Os

Infrared control is most commonly seen Flex Inputs and Outputs are very similar to relays and contact
when controlling AV devices using an IR closures with regard to their wiring and infrastructure. Each I/O
remote. IR remotes are typically designed has a signal wire and a ground. Ground wires are shared by
to control a single device, not an entire multiple I/Os on the same control processor.
AV system. AV control systems seek to
simplify the user experience and provide In a system with two motion sensors connected to an
for a single point of control rather than requiring the user to use IPCP Pro 550 Flex I/O port, one would use two 2-conductor
multiple handheld IR remotes. An additional drawback to IR cables with one conductor connected to the signal terminal for
remotes is that they are easily lost and often stolen. each I/O and the ground conductor for both motion sensors
connected to the Flex I/O's ground terminal.
IR is still used, however. AV control systems can still control
IR devices using infrared emitters. An IR emitter should be Flex I/Os do not pass data, so wire pairs do not need to be
connected to an IR port and placed on one IR controlled device. twisted or shielded. It is important to consider the amount of
Controlling multiple IR devices from a single IR port may seem voltage required across the cable, and select a wire gauge that
cost effective, but it may cause larger, more costly problems will accommodate the voltage drop between the relays and the
when the system requires maintenance or upgrades. contact closures.

Extron
The IR emitters are attached to the front of the AV device using IPCP Pro 550
IP Link Pro Control Processor TCP/IP
double stick tape or silicon adhesive, and wired to the IR port on COM
IPCP PRO 550 Network
SWITCHED RTS IR/SERIAL RELAYS FLEX eBUS

the AV controller. IR emitters can generally be run

12 VDC I/O
1 2 LIMIT
CTS
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 S LIMIT
1000
R Tx Tx LINK
IR
Rx Rx ACT

-5 -3 -2 -1 0
3 4 OVER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 3 4 OVER
0-7

110 ft. (33 m) depending upon the wire

1
5 -1 2
100-240V ~ 50-60Hz IPCP PRO 550
-1
0

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
3

1 2 1 2 3 7 PWR OUT = 12W

-2

used to extend the emitter.

+ - + - T x R x G T x R x G T x R x G T x R x G RTS CTS S G S G S G S G +V +S - S G
SWITCHED 12 VDC
40W MAX TOTAL
eBUS LAN Ethernet
3 4 4 5 6 8 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 G

+ - + - T x R x G T x R x G T x R x G T x R x G RTS CTS S G S G S G S G
5A MAX 12 VDC COM IR/SERIAL RELAYS FLEX I/O

Ground
Extron IR Emitter Signal
and Shield - Dual Kit

­14 Control Systems Design Guide

Relays and Contact Closures TCP/IP
Network
Extron
In control systems, relays and contact closures can be very IPCP Pro 250
IP Link Pro Control Processor
effective means of control. A device that can be controlled using IPCP PRO 250

Extron COM

contact closures, such as an Extron VSW 2VGA A, will be wired to Ethernet

RTS
eBUS IR/S I/O RELAYS

VSW 2VGA A
1000
CTS
S LIMIT 1 2 1
R IR LINK
VGA Switcher
Tx

Rx ACT

a control processor’s relays. The low voltage relays on the control

OVER 1 2 3 4 2
INPUT 1 INPUT 2

1 COM 1 COM 2 DIGITAL I/O

IPCP PRO 250
2

processor creates the contact closure. POWER VGA IN 1 LOOP OUTPUT

VSW 2VGA A

VSW 2VGA A POWER

12V
Tx Rx G RTS CTS

VOL
Tx Rx G

RELAYS
1 2 3

eBUS
4 G

IR/S
12V AUD OUT CONTACT --A MAX V C G 1 2 C +V +S - S G
.1A MAX. 1 2

INPUT 1 PWR OUT = 6W S G LAN

AUTO-SW

Relays and contact closures use two wires or conductors: signal Ground

Relay 1

and ground. Devices with more than one contact closure will Relay 2

typically share ground wires. For example, the VSW 2VGA A has
two contact closures to switch between inputs 1 and 2. It also Since relays and contact closures do not pass data, one does
uses a three-wire captive screw terminal; a conductor for Input not need the wire pairs to be twisted or shielded. It is important
1, a second for Input 2, and a third for the Ground. A projection to consider the amount of voltage required across the cable,
screen may use four conductors; 1 for Screen Up, 1 for Screen and select a wire gauge that will accommodate the voltage drop
Down, 1 for Screen Stop, and 1 for Ground. between the relays and the contact closures.

Low and High Voltage Power Control Extron IPL T PCS4

Four Port Power Control
Many Extron controllers and control processors are equipped with and Current Sensor
offers centralized power
relays. These relays are capable of making and breaking circuits management for up to four
AC outlets
of up to 24 V and 1 amp rating. For higher power circuits, Extron
offers power controllers from within our IP Link category. These
power controllers offer centralized management of AC outlets
and are rated at 120 VAC and 10 amp. Many of these power
MONITOR ANALYZE CONTROL
controllers can be configured to send out e-mail notifications as
each scheduled on/off event is performed. When these controllers • O
 utlets for proper • A
 nalyze the power • R
 emotely control
power sequencing usage by sending individual outlets
restart following an outage, outlets are powered up sequentially out an e-mail
• C
 urrent thresholds • A
 ssign outlets
with a user-configurable delay between each one. The internal can be set for
notification as each
to groups for
on/off event is
memory of these units will ensure that the active outlets are specific AV devices performed simultaneous control
denoting full power
restored to the correct powered state after power is restored. consumption,
• S
 chedule outlets for
standby, and off automatic operation
status

eBUS
Extron’s integration friendly eBUS technology is based on a
unique digital bus architecture that allows for easy control system
expansion, greater design options, and future upgrades. As with
our TouchLink Pro touchpanels, eBUS button panels are designed
for use with any Extron IPCP Pro Series control processor. A
single eBUS button panel can be used as the AV control interface
for a smaller system or multiple button panels and touchpanels
may be combined when a more elaborate control system is
required. Powered and non-powered eBUS distribution hubs are
available to accommodate a variety of system design topologies.
In addition, eBUS control modules may be used for further system
expansion.

www.extron.com 15
Understanding Network Security Protocols

Strategies for securing the transmission of data and information across AV networks
While network security protocols ensure data and information are protected as they travel across networks, no device is completely
secure. It is important to ensure that the products and connections between them are as secure as possible in order to protect your
systems, networks, and organization. Equally important as the device choice is the implementation of devices on the network and within
the AV system. Secure networks combine cryptography and transport protocols that prevent unauthorized users or tools from accessing
the transmitted information.

Modern network infrastructure and network appliances should integrate these technologies and allow AV control systems components to
perform in a predictable fashion. System messaging, commands, information exchanges between products and user interface security
all benefit from these protocols. Extron Pro Series control products and software use the latest security enhancements to ensure the
reliability and security of the products on the network. These techniques help prevent the interception of data by making the products and
the information less vulnerable, without compromising performance.

Protocols Used in AV
PROTOCOL/TECHNOLOGY DESCRIPTION EXTRON IMPLEMENTATION/BENEFITS

A cryptographic network protocol for secure data Extron Use: Messaging between
SSH
communication, remote command-line login, and remote touchpanels and control processors
(Secure SHell)
command execution between two networked devices in a system
SFTP Separate protocol packaged with SSH that works in a
Extron Use: File transfer
(Secure File Transfer Protocol) similar way over a secure connection
A secure version of the Hypertext Transfer Protocol –
HTTPS Extron Use: Secure transfer of requests
Requires devices to agree on a "code" for encryption;
(Hyper Text Transfer Protocol Secure) and responses between client and server
Intercepted messages are unreadable
SSL/TLS Cryptographic protocols designed to provide
(Secure Sockets Layer/ Transport Layer Security) communication security over the Internet
Offers a significantly larger pool of addresses by using
IPv6 Benefit: Extended pool provides
128-bit addresses: 340 undecillion compared with the
(Internet Protocol version 6) scalability; introduces additional security
4.3 billion available in 32-bit IPv4
A technology for securing access to network directories
LDAP
– a database that stores information about devices,
(Lightweight Directory Access Protocol)
applications, and people; governs access to resources

Ports and Protocols for IP Link Pro, MediaLink Plus, and TouchLink Pro
INBOUND/OUTBOUND PORT PROTOCOL SERVICE DESCRIPTION

Inbound 80 TCP HTTP Port redirects to HTTPS

Inbound 123 UDP NTP NTP service
Default Web pages, GlobalViewer,
Inbound 443 TCP HTTPS
Extron Control for Web

Inbound 4502 UDP Discovery Broadcast network discovery

Inbound 4503 TCP SSH Internal system messaging

Inbound 4522 TCP SFTP Internal system file transfer

Inbound 5353 UDP mDNS Multicast DNS

Inbound 22022 TCP SFTP File transfer

Ports and Protocols for Global Configurator Plus and Global Configurator Professional Software
INBOUND/OUTBOUND PORT PROTOCOL SERVICE DESCRIPTION
Inbound/Outbound 4503 TCP SSH Internal system messaging
Inbound 4504 UDP Trace Extron trace messages
Inbound/Outbound 4522 TCP SFTP Internal system file transfer

­16 Control Systems Design Guide

 Ports and Protocols for Toolbelt Software
INBOUND/OUTBOUND PORT PROTOCOL SERVICE DESCRIPTION
Inbound/outbound 4502 UDP Discovery Broadcast network discovery
Outbound 4503 TCP SSH Internal system messaging
Inbound 4504 UDP Trace Extron trace messages
Outbound 4522 TCP SFTP Internal system file transfer

Ports and Protocols for Extron Control for iOS

INBOUND/OUTBOUND PORT PROTOCOL SERVICE DESCRIPTION

Inbound 443 TCP HTTPS Internal system file transfer

Inbound/outbound 4503 TCP SSH Internal system messaging
Inbound 4522 TCP SFTP Internal system file transfer

Ports and Protocols for Extron Control for Web

INBOUND/OUTBOUND PORT PROTOCOL SERVICE DESCRIPTION

Inbound 443 TCP HTTPS Internal system file transfer

Inbound 943 TCP Siverlight® Extron Control for Web (client access policy file)
Inbound/outbound 4503 TCP SSH Internal system messaging
Inbound 4522 TCP SFTP Internal system file transfer

Ports and Protocols for Extron Control for Android

INBOUND/OUTBOUND PORT PROTOCOL SERVICE DESCRIPTION

Inbound 443 TCP HTTPS Internal system file transfer

Inbound/Outbound 4503 TCP SSH Internal system messaging

SECURE
PRO SERIES
COMMUNICATION

www.extron.com 17
The Modern Workspace – Collaboration is Key

Leveraging Space and Technology - Less is More Along with the rising demand for collaboration comes the need
Organizations are continually rethinking how to best leverage for properly-designed and equipped meeting spaces. Businesses
space and technology to enable their workforce to collaborate. seek technology solutions to help them meet the demand while
Today’s knowledge workers and students expect to be able to also making efficient use of their available floorspace. In addition to
work together in small groups, participate in conference calls, updating existing conference rooms and boardrooms, technology
connect via video chat, and share content from their laptop, can be used to transform unused office areas into open meeting
tablet, or phone. These modern workforce expectations remain spaces and huddle rooms. Options like these enable more
the same for both local and offsite employees. productive meetings and provide areas that are frequently used by
groups for quick meetings and project collaboration.

­18 Control Systems Design Guide

 Integration with Leading UC Platforms
for a Seamless Conferencing Experience
Extron has developed the technology to integrate with the leading unified communication solution providers, providing a one-touch
user experience for conferencing, collaboration, and control. Through our partnerships, we can extend Extron control capabilities to
spaces that use Zoom, Cisco, Logitech, and many other popular providers. We offer complete system integration for convenient,
centralized control of conferencing systems, audio, video, lighting, window shades, and much more.

www.extron.com 19
Making Choices: Control System Size and Scope

Competing Demands in System Design

Proper design is a balancing act. Designers must evaluate the goals and needs of the client and weigh them against the client’s
budgetary constraints. Many clients come with ambitious expectations and leave it up to the designer to help bring their vision in line with
their budget. It is important to work with the client, determine their goals, and manage their expectations in order to achieve success
when the project is complete.

Budget Demands Best Design Demands Aesthetic Demands Reliability Demands

Most Cost- Best Feature-Rich The Best-Looking Solution Lowest Maintenance,
Effective Solution Functional Solution Occasionally, clients will want to Most Reliable Solution
Some clients know they have The ‘Best Design’ scenario pay particular attention to the Some projects involving critical
a low budget and are fine with is at the opposite end of the aesthetics of the design. While operations systems, give great
that. They still want the best spectrum. Clients in this area the functional demands are still importance to the serviceability
solution for their dollar, but they are looking for the highest a concern, the client may want and reliability of the system.
are aware of the limitations. The quality, most aesthetically the visible components and the Examples of these are military
next step for the designer would pleasing design, with the most user interfaces to seamlessly and Network Operations
be to prioritize where the money functionality. This type of project blend with the environment or Centers - NOCs. If systems fail
in the project needs to go and to is the designer’s dream, and to have a particularly high tech for whatever reason, they need
develop a value-based solution allows them to address all of feel. The CEO of the company to be brought back online with
around those priorities. the client’s goals and needs may want a 15" touchpanel on minimal effort in the shortest
and provide the best solution his boardroom table and will time possible. Typically, these
regardless of the related cost. not settle for a 7" touchpanel clients understand that these
despite the budgetary savings. systems cost more and have
budgeted accordingly.

Bringing Balance to All Your Demands

Ultimately, effective design relies on effective communication with the client and the determination of the client’s goals and needs for the system.

When to use Button Panel vs. Touchpanel

The design of an AV control system is largely driven by the needs In addition, they include network connectivity for Web-based
of the user and the number of components that require control. remote diagnostics, AV resource management, and support.
MediaLink® and MediaLink Plus controllers are ideal for single-
display systems with a limited number of sources. They offer For larger rooms or rooms that share resources Extron’s eBUS
simplified control through an easy to operate interface, thanks to panels maybe the ideal solution. Extron’s eBUS button panels are
their fixed arrangements of well-labeled buttons. customizable, integration-friendly AV system control interfaces
designed for use with Extron IPCP Pro control processors.
Controllers like the MLC 62 RS and MLC 55 RS are designed eBUS button panels come in standard form factors and multiple
for smaller rooms with one display and only two to four sources. units may be linked together by a single cable that carries both
They function well as replacements for a display's handheld IR power and communication. Since they have the same physical
remote, providing user-friendly control for power, volume, and appearance as Extron’s broad range of MediaLink controllers,
input selection. For rooms that require Ethernet-enabled controllers eBUS button panels can be used alongside them throughout a
and a few more sources, the MediaLink Plus Series of controllers facility while preserving a consistent look and user experience.
should be considered.

Extron’s MediaLink Plus Series room controllers includes the ability

to manage, monitor, and control AV devices, such as projectors
and audio processors, using a standard Ethernet network as well
as supporting advanced configuration using Global Configurator
Plus and Professional. They are all designed to control a wide
range of smaller AV systems and provide support for a switcher.

MLC Plus 84 D
MediaLink Plus Controller
­20 Control Systems Design Guide
Like MediaLink or MediaLink Plus controllers, buttons can be
Complexity vs. Budget: Finding the Right Balance
easily customized using Extron Button Label Generator software
for panels with hard buttons or by using the online Custom
Button Builder application for soft touch buttons.
TLP Pro 1720TG

When a system either exceeds the number of buttons on the

Number of Supported Devices

MediaLink or MediaLink Plus controller or when the combination
TLP Pro 1025T
of multiple eBUS Button Panels no longer provides the best
user experience it becomes clear that you need to consider a
touchpanel with a control processor. As system requirements
increase, more advanced control processors and touchpanels TLP Pro 525T

with a larger screen size help bridge the system's potential

and overall capabilities while still maintaining the same ease of
configuration. ON

VOL
DISPLAY

OFF

PC

VOL VIDEO

Extron

MLC Plus 50
Deciding whether to use a button panel or a touchpanel comes
down to two basic questions:
Size of Budget

1. What is the budget?

2. How many devices need to be supported?
Network Connectivity for Web Control
Button-based controllers are ideal for applications that have
Web-based resource management, such as that found with
limited functionality and that require more cost-effective solutions.
Extron's GlobalViewer applications provides a powerful, flexible
An example of this would be for room entry locations that require
way to manage, monitor, and control both Extron and third-party
basic functionality, such as lighting and shade controls.
equipment like projectors, displays, monitors, media players, and
other devices using a standard TCP/IP network.
Touchpanels are ideal for applications that require more
functionality, or a more aesthetically pleasing control interface. Extron Control for Web provides a primary or secondary virtual
Touchpanels are also ideal for larger systems that require user interface of a TouchLink Pro series user interface. This
interactive feedback from the control system. Effective use of capability can be used on a PC or laptop and is compatible with
graphics on the touchpanel can be used for corporate branding all popular browsers including Internet Explorer and Firefox.
and added aesthetic appeal. Some systems may benefit by
using a combination of touchpanels and eBUS button panels
when more granular control is desired.

How to Determine the Right Touchpanel Size

Like most components in the control system, the size of a
touchpanel is driven primarily by functionality and budget.
For many people, when it comes to touchpanels, bigger is
better. Depending on the location of the touchpanel, a smaller
touchpanel may look better than a larger one and may be easier
to use within the environment. Placing a large touchpanel on a
small lectern may not leave any room for the presenter’s laptop GlobalViewer ® Enterprise allows your client to manage their AV assets and
installations within a single building or across multiple campuses.
or notes. However, selecting a small touchpanel based solely on
budgetary constraints may make GUI navigation difficult
and frustrating.

www.extron.com 21
Graphical User Interface Design

The control system touchpanel interface is perhaps the most highly visible component of an installed
AV system, and one that encourages direct interaction from the user. The quality of the entire AV
system is often judged by the touchpanel experience.

Quality user interfaces balance style and functionality - two important qualities that can be achieved
in equal measure when proper care is taken from the start of the project. A layout that is familiar and
pleasing to the eye is more likely to be used. An interface must meet the needs of the user and function
the way they expect. Operating a poorly designed interface can be intimidating and overwhelming, so
eliminating confusion is the key element to success. With limitless color options, graphics, and logos
available, an interface can be infinitely customized. The challenge for the designer is not to be overly
creative, but to design a professional looking interface that is easy to navigate. The Extron Graphical
User Interface Design Guide defines and explains these fundamental concepts within the context of
AV control systems. The goal is to enable layout designers to choose with confidence the right tools
and methods necessary to create an intuitive interface that gives the user a positive experience.

Layout Principles
One of the most important design rules is consistency. This is also both players. Furthermore, such devices should have identical
one of the most often broken rules. Consistency of color choice, control pages throughout a facility.
shapes, sizes, fonts, labels, and locations must be maintained in
all aspects of the layout in every project. This provides familiarity Affordance is the quality of an object that provides a user with the
across all rooms or spaces and minimizes the learning curve visual cue to perform an action. The user should naturally perceive
required to operate new systems. how to interact with touchpanel objects and quickly determine
what can be pressed, what areas need input, and what areas
To this end, a designer should make layouts on all touchpanels provide feedback.
consistent from page to page and interface to interface. An
example might be DVD and Blu-ray players, which have similar False affordance is the direct opposite, in short. Never make
controls. The common controls should be arranged similarly for something look like a button, when it isn’t!


Chunking
Chunking is a method of breaking
large amounts of information into
small, manageable, and relevant
chunks. Chunking reduces the
cognitive load on the user and the
amount of time it takes to find a
control when visually scanning a
touchpanel interface.

A good rule of thumb is to divide an

interface into chunks which contain
no more than nine controls each.

The image to the right shows a

screen divided into seven sections
comprising of six static areas and
one dynamic area. Each area
contains a logically related set of
controls or feedback indicators.

­22 Control Systems Design Guide

 

Aesthetics and Functionality Key Concepts for Graphical

The balance between form and function determines an effective User Interface Design
interface. Usability and visual design are two pieces that have Design fundamentals and considerations
an enormous impact on the overall experience of a product; are essential to a successful user interface
one cannot exist without the other. A designer's main goal is to design for every AV system control
application.
encourage user engagement with an inviting interface through
careful application of fonts, color, shapes, and spacing. Here are a few key design concepts:

• 
Consistency – Maintain consistency
The screen should have a clean appearance with each section with fonts, shapes, colors, sizes for
separated and controls clearly labeled. Source buttons should be easy recognition and location of each
distinguishable also by location, button shape, size, color, text, component of the system.
and icons. A user should be able to quickly see the difference • 
Affordance awareness – If an image
between labels and buttons. is intended to be a button that can
be pushed, make it look like one.
If it is not, then be sure it looks like
something else.
• 
Static and dynamic areas – Logical
use of static and dynamic areas
provides clear and consistent access
to commonly-used functions, and the
Overly stylized user interface Functionally balanced user interface ability to use controls specific to a
selectable source operation.
Color Considerations • 
Navigation and pages – Start with
Selecting a color scheme or color palette is a core part of creating clear entry points. Use uncomplicated
an appealing interface. Some color combinations are aesthetically navigation to get the user to where
they want to be without leaving the
pleasing, while others distract and complicate. Knowledge of
main page and without introducing
how colors mix and their relationships helps the designer choose
page flips. Use pop-up and modal
compatible colors. Color can be a complex design category, pop-up pages wisely but sparingly.
but for starters, there are five safe rules that all color palettes will
follow:

The Rules of Color

1. Never use more than six colors on a project.
2. Use grays, or low brightness / saturation colors for backgrounds.
3. Use contrasting colors to draw attention to text or buttons that
must stand out.
4. Avoid using too many saturated colors.
5. Always maintain good contrast between elements, and especially
for text.

Example of a good color combination, screen is readable

when monochrome tested.

www.extron.com 23
Control Hardware Overview

Control System Devices

Extron offers a wide variety of controllers, control processors, touchpanels, and button panels that enable many different AV devices to be
controlled and monitored. Displays, switchers, source devices, screen control systems, and lighting systems can be networked together
for centralized management and operation. There are over 100 Pro Series Control products; all designed to make complex systems
simpler and simple systems more powerful, and all backed by the Extron Quality Guarantee and S3 customer support you trust.

Extron divides these control devices into five primary categories of control hardware based on the role they play in the AV control system.

Controllers
Controllers are basic control interfaces used for
smaller AV systems, such as classrooms and other
single display presentation environments. Extron
MediaLink® controllers, for example, are button-
based user interfaces that are combined with an
internal control processor. Featuring clearly-labeled
buttons, they are designed to enable users with
little or no training to easily operate the AV system.
Deploying such controllers throughout a school
or campus provides instructors with a consistent,
familiar interface, and allows them to concentrate
on teaching instead of the AV.
MLC Plus 84 D MLC Plus 100

Controllers also offer the benefits of centralization:

The control cables, network connectivity,
communications signals, and user controls
Extron
are physically located together. This makes
100-240V 0.5A MAX, 50-60Hz XPA 1002 Plus

Extron 1 2
ATTENUATION
1 2
INPUTS
1 2 10V
REMOTE
50mA
STANDBY
8Ω / 4Ω OUTPUTS
1 2
SM 26
XPA 1002 Plus
12 10 8 12 10 8

Surface Mount
14 6 14 6 G
LIMITER/PROTECT 18 4 4

system design easy and more affordable.

26 2 2
SIGNAL
∞ ∞

Power Amplifier
0 0

Speakers
V C G CLASS 2 WIRING

Laptop
Such standardization also makes setup and Microphones Extron Extron

maintenance easier to support. Many controllers HDMI

Audio
offer a variety of control capabilities, including input PC WiFi 1 2 3 4

selection buttons, bidirectional serial ports for Audio Audio Audio

Extron
display and switcher control, unidirectional serial/IR
1 2 3 1 2 RS-232 (1)
DMP 64

HDMI DMP 64
MIC/LINE INPUTS

1 2 3 G Tx Rx G
OUTPUTS

REMOTE

MIC LAN
POWER + 48 V

Digital Matrix
I/O

12V 1 2 3
1.0A MAX 4 5 6 3 4 RS-232 (2) RESET

configurable control ports, relays, and support for Blu-ray Player

4 5 6 4 5 6 G Tx Rx G

Processor
HDMI
remote volume control of Extron MPA Series and
Audio Ethernet
select XTRA Series amplifiers. Extron 100-240V ~ --A MAX
OUT OUTPUT 1 2 3 4 G 1 2 3 4 +V

IN1604 DTP 1 CONFIGURABLE 2 HDMI 3 HDMI

L R SIG LINK
CONTACT IN
OVER TP
TALLY OUT

Four Input Scaler

IN L R RS-232
1 2 HDBT RS-232 IR Tx Rx G
4 HDMI

with DTP Extension

OUT DTP Tx Rx G Tx Rx
50-60 Hz INPUT AUDIO REMOTE

Extron MediaLink Plus controllers include the

ability to control Ethernet-enabled devices such
as projectors and audio processors and support
TCP/IP
PoE – Power over Ethernet for streamlining Network OVER DTP
RS-232 IR
Extron
DTP HDMI 330 Rx
installation. These controllers support advanced
Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP HDMI 230 Rx

POWER SIG LINK

OUTPUTS
AUDIO
Receiver
CATx Cable
12V
0.7A MAX L R

configuration using Global Configurator Plus and IR to

up to 330'
(100 m)
DTP IN
Screen Control
Blu-ray Ethernet
Professional. In addition, they allow convenient RS-232 HDMI
RS-232 to RS-232 to Extron
and simple customization of their backlit buttons,
100-240V 50/60 Hz
---A MAX

Projector IN1604 DTP XTP XTP PWR

PWR
XTP PI 100
XTP Power Injector
either through easily removable button caps and
Projector
pre-printed labels, or by using the Extron Custom ON
DISPLAY

OFF
PC
Ethernet/PoE

Button Builder. MediaLink Plus controllers are VOLUME

VGA

DOC
CAM

available in a wide variety of form factors for easy MUTE

Relay to Screen Control

integration, worldwide. Extron

Extron
MLC Plus 100
MediaLink Plus Controller

­24 Control Systems Design Guide

Control Processors
Extron IP Link control processors are designed
to work together with TouchLink® touchpanels,
while our latest line of control processors,
IP Link Pro series, work with TouchLink Pro
touchpanels and eBUS devices for AV system
and room control. These processors enable
almost any AV device to be controlled,
monitored, and accessed from an eBUS
network, Local Area Network, Wide Area
Network, or the Internet.
IPCP Pro 555
Most control processors are available with a
wide variety of RS-232, IR, relay, contact closure,
Digital I/O, Flex I/O, Ethernet as well as an eBUS
port. This allows displays, switchers, source
devices, screen control systems, and lighting
systems to be networked together for centralized
management and operation by the control
system.

IP Link Pro control processors can either utilize

configuration-based Global Configurator Plus
IPL Pro S3
or Professional or programming-based Global
Scripter. When using Extron’s IP Link Pro
products, the Extron Control App and Extron
Control for Web provide a convenient way to
access TouchLink Pro touchpanels and act RS-232

as either an additional or a primary point of

RS-232
Tx Rx G Tx Rx

OVER DTP
IR

HDMI OUT
HDMI OUT

HDMI
control. IPCP Pro Series control processors offer Extron
DTP R HDMI 4K 231 D
enhanced security with the addition of an AV CATx Cable Receiver Display
up to 230' (70 m)
LAN port, which segregates AV devices from the Microphones
Extron
corporate network. SM 26
Audio Surface
Mount
Extron
Extron Extron

Speakers
IN1608 xi SA
An assortment of mounting kits are available Scaling Presentation Audio
Extron
Switcher
for use with IP Link Pro control processors. All IN1608 xi SA

AMPLIFIED OUTPUT
TLP Pro 1025T
10" Tabletop TouchLink
Pro Touchpanel
2x25W(8Ω)/2x50W(4Ω)

control processors are housed in a size-efficient

INPUTS OUTPUTS AUDIO INPUTS OUTPUTS L R

OVER DTP

RS-232 IR L 1 R L 3 R L 5 R 1 2
1 CLASS 2 WIRING
3 5 1C 1A
100-240V ~ 1.3 A MAX
7 Tx Rx G Tx Rx 8 REMOTE
SIG LINK SIG LINK SIG LINK +48V
CONFIGURABLE OVER DTP OVER DTP MIC/LINE VARIABLE LAN

and durable 1" to 1U high and one-quarter to

2 HDMI HDMI 1B HDMI L 2 R L 4 R L 6 R L R RS-232
RS-232 IR RS-232 IR 2
RESET
4 6
+48V
DTP IN Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP IN Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP OUT Tx Rx G

50/60 Hz

Ethernet
one half rack width enclosure. They are rack and
RS-232
furniture-mountable, and can also be mounted HDMI HDMI
Ethernet AV
to a projector pole. Their compact size and Media Player LAN
IR
mounting options help make IP Link Pro control 1

Science
processors very easy to integrate into existing, Blu-ray Player Building
IR
as well as new AV systems. Some of our newer Ethernet Ethernet
PC
switchers, including the DTP CrossPoint 108 4K
Ethernet
IPCP series and IN1608 xi IPCP series integrate
100-240V ~ 50-60Hz

LAN
1 2 1 2 3 7 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 PWR OUT = 12W
LAN

T x R x G T x R x G T x R x G T x R x G RTS CTS S G S G S G S G +V +S -S G
SWITCHED 12 VDC eBUS
40W MAX TOTAL
AV

a Pro control processor with the same advanced

3 4 4 5 6 8 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 G LAN

T x R x G T x R x G T x R x G T x R x G RTSCTS S G S G S G S G

Tuner
1.2A MAX
12 VDC COM IR/SERIAL RELAYS FLEX I/O

RS-232 Extron
features, processing power, and breakthrough
PUSH PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
SELECT

IPCP Pro 555

DIRECTV

technologies found in the standalone Extron IP Link Pro Control Processor

IPCP Pro control processors.

www.extron.com 25
Control Hardware Overview

Touchpanels
In many ways, the choice of a control interface
dictates a user’s overall satisfaction with the AV
system. That’s why we design our TouchLink® Pro
user interfaces to exceed expectations for ease-
of-use, then place equally-strict goals on features,
security, and smooth, worry-free integration. Our
TouchLink Pro family works with any IP Link Pro
control processor and is designed for use in AV
system applications that require easy, complete,
interactive control of a broad range of source
devices.
TLP Pro 1220TG

TouchLink Pro Touchpanels

This series includes full-featured, customizable
touchpanels that range in sizes from 3.5"
TLP Pro 725T
up to 17", available in a variety of mounting
options including tabletop, wall mount, and
Extron
flip-up Cable Cubby enclosures. Several models
WiFi 1 2 3 4

DTP HDMI Extron

feature vibrant, capacitive touchscreens with 4K 330 Rx FF 220T
Receiver HDMI
Ceiling Speakers
edge-to-edge glass, and multi-source, high- POWER
12V
0.7A MAX
SIG LINK OUTPUTS

L
AUDIO
R

resolution video preview. Our latest generation of PC

DTP IN

OVER DTP
RS-232 IR

Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP HDMI 4K 330 Rx

touchpanels feature a sleek, beautifully-designed

RS-232
enclosure, quad-core processors, enhanced
memory, and scratch and smudge-resistant
MODEL 80

Gorilla Glass® touchscreens.

Laptop
TouchLink Interface – TLI Pro 101
FLAT PANEL

Display
Need to use a touchpanel that falls outside of
our available size offerings, but want all the great Extron
TLP Pro 725T
features Extron Pro Series control systems have 7" TableTop
to offer? The Extron TLI Pro 101 is a TouchLink® TouchLink Pro
Touchpanel
Interface that allows a third-party touchscreen HDMI HDMI CATx Cable Audio

display to be used as a point of control within an

Extron Pro Series control system.
Extron
IN1608 MA
GUI Design Themes Switcher with Ethernet/PoE
DTP Extension
GUI Design Themes are a combination of IN1608 MA
AMPLIFIED OUTPUT

Resource Kits and Templates used to make

70V - 100W

Ethernet
INPUTS OUTPUTS AUDIO INPUTS OUTPUTS

1
RS-232
OVER DTP

IR L 1 R L 3 R L 5 R 1 2
CLASS 2 WIRING TCP/IP
Network
3 5 C A REMOTE
7 Tx Rx G Tx Rx 8
LAN

TouchLink and TouchLink Pro user interfaces.

SIG LINK SIG LINK SIG LINK +48V
CONFIGURABLE OVER DTP OVER DTP MIC/LINE VARIABLE
100-240V ~ -- A MAX 2 HDMI HDMI RS-232 IR RS-232 IR HDMI L 2 R L 4 R L 6 R 2 L R RESET RS-232
4 6 B
+48V
DTP IN Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP IN Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP OUT Tx Rx G

When creating a user interface from scratch,

50/60 Hz

Resource Kits are a great starting place. These Ethernet

RS-232 over DTP
kits include items such as borders, buttons, AV HDMI
COM 1 COM 2 DIGITAL I/O

icons, and many more design shortcuts to help

IPCP PRO 250

Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G

POWER VOL RELAYS eBUS IR/S

12V
--A MAX V C G 1 2 C +V +S -S G

IR to Blu-ray S G LAN

you build an effective, full-featured TouchLink

PWR OUT = 6W

STANDBY/ON
PQLS HDMI OPEN/CLOSE FL OFF

USB

or TouchLink Pro GUI. Templates include all Blu-ray Player Extron

IPCP Pro 250
elements from Resource Kits plus pre-configured IP Link Pro
VGA Control Processor
user interfaces.

Document
Camera

­26 Control Systems Design Guide

Low Cost, Easy to Use
Conferencing AV Control
Keys to Successful Collaboration
Systems
Extron collaboration technology supports the
modern workspace by creating meeting rooms
that are easy to use, schedule, and manage
remotely. In addition, we have the system design
experience, customer support, and enterprise HC 404
software solutions to help ensure your success.
Whether designing a large conference room,
a training room, or smaller huddle spaces, it’s
critical to provide the right communication and
collaboration technology to simplify and enhance
meetings.

HD CTL 100
HC 400 Series
The HC 403 and HC 404 are easy-to-use AV
system solutions for collaboration spaces. These
meeting space collaboration systems consist
of a switching transmitter and a scaling receiver
pair that extend video, audio, and power up to
230 feet (70 meters) over a single CATx cable.
Advanced Extron scaling technology ensures
excellent image quality with maximum detail
and color accuracy. Built-in control capabilities
facilitate automatic source switching, display
control, and integration with occupancy
sensors for an intuitive and effortless end-user
experience. Designed for professional integration,
the low-profile HC 400 series transmitter and
receiver are ideal for mounting on a wall or for
discreet placement beneath tables, behind
displays, or wherever needed to meet application
requirements.

HD CTL 100
The Extron HD CTL 100 is a low-cost, easy-
to-use workspace controller designed for
automatic display control in small meeting rooms
and huddle spaces. When an active signal is
connected to the HDMI input, the HD CTL 100
automatically turns on the display and selects
the correct input via CEC control. For further
flexibility, the unit easily integrates with the Extron
OCS 100 occupancy sensor to automatically
power the system on when users enter the room.
Convenient support for wireless BYOD provides
effective collaboration and content sharing from a
wide variety of mobile devices.

www.extron.com 27
Control Hardware Overview

eBUS Button Panels

The Easiest Way to Deploy and
Expand AV System Control
Extron’s eBUS button panels are customizable,
integration-friendly AV system control interfaces
designed for use with Extron IPCP Pro control
processors. eBUS button panels come in
standard form factors and multiple units may be
linked together by a single cable that carries both
power and communication. Since they have the
same physical appearance as Extron’s broad
range of MediaLink controllers, eBUS button
panels can be used alongside them throughout a
facility while preserving a consistent look and user
experience. Buttons can be easily customized
using Extron Button Label Generator software
or by using the online Custom Button Builder
application. EBP 106 D EBP 200

Extron eBUS technology is based on a unique

digital bus architecture that allows for easy control
system expansion, greater design options, and
future upgrades. As with our TouchLink Pro Extron
touchpanels, eBUS button panels are designed PC
WiFi 1 2 3 4

FF 220T
Ceiling Speakers
for use with any Extron IPCP Pro Series control Extron
DTP HDMI 330 Rx
processor. A single eBUS button panel can be Receiver
Screen Control
SIG LINK OUTPUTS

used as the AV control interface for a smaller

POWER
12V AUDIO
0.7A MAX L R

DTP IN

OVER DTP

Laptop Projector
system or multiple button panels and touchpanels
RS-232 IR

Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP HDMI 330 Rx

may be combined when a more elaborate

RS-232
CATx Cable
control system is required. Powered and non- up to 330' (100 m)
powered eBUS distribution hubs are available HDMI HDMI Ethernet
to accommodate a variety of system design
Document VGA Audio
topologies. Camera

Extron
IN1608 MA
AMPLIFIED OUTPUT
70V - 100W

IN1608 MA
INPUTS OUTPUTS AUDIO INPUTS OUTPUTS
OVER DTP

RS-232 IR L 1 R L 3 R L 5 R 1 2 Ethernet TCP/IP

Switcher with
CLASS 2 WIRING
1

Easy Expansion and Upgrades

3 5 C A REMOTE

Network
7 Tx Rx G Tx Rx 8

DTP Extension
SIG LINK SIG LINK SIG LINK +48V LAN
CONFIGURABLE OVER DTP OVER DTP MIC/LINE VARIABLE
100-240V ~ -- A MAX 2 HDMI HDMI RS-232 IR RS-232 IR HDMI L 2 R L 4 R L 6 R 2 L R RESET RS-232
4 6 B
+48V
DTP IN Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP IN Tx Rx G Tx Rx DTP OUT Tx Rx G

Presentation environments benefit from AV control 50/60 Hz

systems that can be easily modified to fit the Blu-ray Player Ethernet
HDMI Extron
evolving demands of their applications. eBUS STANDBY/ON
PQLS HDMI OPEN/CLOSE FL OFF

USB
RS-232 over DTP IPCP Pro 350
IP Link Pro
button panels streamline system expansion and Control
IPCP PRO 350

IR to Blu-ray
COM LAN
RTS 1 2 3
eBUS IR/S I/O RELAYS
1000

Processor
CTS
S LIMIT 1 1 2 1 2
R Tx IR LINK

upgrades by using single cable connections and

Rx ACT
OVER 1 2 3 2 3 4 3 4

COM 1 COM 2 COM 3 DIGITAL I/O

IPCP PRO 350

Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G
POWER LAN
12V 1 2 3
IR/SERIAL RELAYS eBUS
x.xA MAX 1 2 1 2 C 3 4 C +V +S -S G

sharing the powerful resources of one

S G S G PWR OUT = 6W

eBUS

IPCP Pro Series control processor. For DISPLAY

PC LAPTOP

convenient control in systems that are designed

ON OFF

DOC

Relay to Screen Control

BLU-RAY
CAM
VOLUME

with pushbutton AV control in some locations VGA SCREEN

UP
Extron
MUTE SCREEN
DOWN EBP 200
and sophisticated interactive control in others, Extron
eBUS Button Panel
3-Gang
eBUS button panels work with TouchLink Pro
touchpanels and share the same IPCP Pro
control processor.

­28 Control Systems Design Guide

eBUS Deployment
Topologies
DAISY CHAIN
All eBUS button panels feature two eBUS
In a daisy chain topology, one of the eBUS ports is used for input from the previous
ports for easy system expansion and
button panel or control processor in the chain and the other is used for output to
upgrades. Since eBUS button panels share
the next button panel. In this simple configuration, the IPCP Pro control processor
one control processor and are connected
can be mounted out of the way, at the terminal end of the chain.
with a single cable, they can be arranged
in various configurations or topologies that IP Link Pro
Control Processor
best suit your application and environment. COM 1

Tx Rx G RTS CTS
COM 2

Tx Rx G 1
DIGITAL I/O

2 3 4 G
IPCP PRO 250

POWER VOL RELAYS eBUS IR/S

12V
--A MAX V C G 1 2 C +V +S -S G

Total cable distance in any configuration

DISPLAY
DISPLAY LAPTOP
PWR OUT = 6W S G LAN ON OFF
PC
ON OFF
DOC CAM VOLUME

VGA

VOLUME
PC
DOC

must not exceed 1,000 feet.

CAM PC
DVD

eBUS Extron
MUTE
eBUS AUX VIDEO
eBUS VIDEO

eBUS
Button Panel eBUS eBUS
Mounting Options and Form Factors Button Panel Button Panel

eBUS button panels come in a broad

variety of industry-standard form factors
that provide worldwide compatibility. Button
STAR
panels can be mounted on any flat surface,
A star topology can be achieved by using either an Extron EBDB or a PS 1220EB
including walls, lecterns, desks, or even in
eBUS distribution hub. A single cable connects the IPCP Pro control processor to
a table with our EBP 1200C. Button panels
the eBUS distribution hub. From the hub, up to eight eBUS button panels can be
are available in US-gang, decorator-style,
connected and arranged throughout the system.
EU, MK, and furniture-mountable form
factors. For applications worldwide, the EU ON
DISPLAY

OFF
PC

VGA

IP Link Pro
models are compatible with Flex55 modules,
VOLUME
DOC

eBUS
CAM

Control Processor MUTE

Extron
COM 1 COM 2 DIGITAL I/O
IPCP PRO 250

mounting kits, and enclosures. eBUS

Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G

POWER VOL RELAYS eBUS IR/S

12V

Button Panel
--A MAX V C G 1 2 C +V +S -S G

DISPLAY
PWR OUT = 6W S G LAN
PC
ON OFF
+V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G

eBUS DISTRIBUTION HUB VGA

+V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G VOLUME
DOC
CAM

eBUS eBUS
Extron Driver Library
MUTE

Extron

EBDB eBUS
Extron maintains a library of thousands of eBUS
Distribution
Button Panel
ON
DISPLAY

OFF
PC

Hub VGA

Ethernet, serial, and IR drivers that allow our

VOLUME
DOC
CAM

eBUS Extron
MUTE

products to control a broad variety of display eBUS

Button Panel

and source devices. Download individual

drivers or as a driver package in a single,
executable file that can be installed like HYBRID
any software application. We also have an A hybrid topology combines configuration elements from the daisy chain and

extensive library of Extron Certified Drivers, star designs.

which have undergone thorough, in-house DISPLAY

PC
DISPLAY
PC
ON OFF ON OFF

testing by Extron staff.

VGA VGA

VOLUME VOLUME
DOC DOC

eBUS eBUS
CAM CAM

IP Link Pro MUTE MUTE

Control Processor Extron Extron

eBUS eBUS
COM 1 COM 2 COM 3 DIGITAL I/O
IPCP PRO 350

Button Panel Button Panel

Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G
POWER LAN
12V 1 2 3
IR/SERIAL RELAYS eBUS
x.xA MAX 1 2 1 2 C 3 4 C +V +S -S G

S G S G PWR OUT = 6W

EBDB
+V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G

eBUS DISTRIBUTION HUB

+V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G +V +S -S G

eBUS Distribution Hub

eBUS

DISPLAY DISPLAY
PC PC
ON OFF ON OFF

VGA VGA

VOLUME VOLUME
DOC DOC
CAM CAM

eBUS MUTE
eBUS MUTE

Extron Extron

eBUS eBUS
Button Panel Button Panel

www.extron.com 29
Exploring the Control Ports on Products

Detailing the Control Ports on Extron MediaLink Plus Controllers and IP Link Pro Control Processors
Extron’s controllers and control processors offer a wide variety
of connection options for integrating control into your AV system
environment. This enables almost any AV device to be controlled and
monitored using controllers or control processors. Displays, switchers,
source devices, screen control systems, and lighting systems can
be connected for centralized management and operation. Below is a
summary of the types of connectors and ports you will find while working
Front Back
with our various controllers.

Extron MediaLink Plus Controllers

Most of the MediaLink Plus controllers have two bidirectional RS-232 ports for communicating with virtually any projector
COM 1 or flat panel or any other RS-232 controllable product. MediaLink Plus Series controllers are configured with Global
Configurator Plus or Global Configurator Professional.
Tx Rx G

A Digital Input is provided to allow one to connect a sensor or a switch to the controller as a way to trigger an event. For
D IN
example if you want to disable the controller using a key switch is used this is something one can do.

Tx G

Low Voltage Relays enable control of room functions such as lighting, screen settings, and other device functions.
RELAYS

1 2 C

Each IR port can output IR signals using a wired IR emitter.

IR

S G

Remote volume control allows for volume control of Extron MPA Series and select XTRA™ Series amplifiers.
VOL

V C G

The LAN connection found on the MediaLink Plus Series controllers allows them to interface with the network and
enables product setup, monitoring, and control of the entire system, MediaLink Plus controllers can control third party
LAN/PoE devices such as projectors when connected to the same network. Additionally MediaLink Plus controllers support Power
over Ethernet that allows the controller to receive power and control over a single Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for
a local power supply.

­30 Control Systems Design Guide

Extron IP Link Pro Control Processors
Extron control processors with a 3 and 5-pole captive screw connection support bidirectional serial communication.
COM 2 COM 1
COM ports with a 5 pole captive screw connection can be used with or without hardware and software handshaking.

Tx Rx G Tx Rx G RTS CTS

Each IR port can output IR signals using a wired IR emitter. Ports labeled IR/S can be configured to transmit IR signals to
1 2 IR/SERIAL devices using an IR emitter or they can also be configured for one-way RS-232 communications as an additional COM
1 2
port if you do not need to monitor the feedback from a device. One can also control two IR devices per IR port. In all
S G S G
configurations S is TX (Transmit) and G is wired to the ground.
IR/SERIAL S G S G

Each Digital I/O port is configurable as a digital input or digital output and can interface with a variety of devices,
DIGITAL I/O such as sensors, switches, LEDs, and relays.

1 2 3 4 G

Flex I/O ports are very similar to Digital I/Os however the main difference is that these can be configured as an analog
1 2 3 4 G input in addition to a digital input or a digital output. They can also interface with a variety of devices such as sensors,
switches, LEDs, and relays.

FLEX I/O

Each Contact Input can be connected to various switches or sensors as a way to trigger an event. When a contact is
INPUT connected to ground it is considered ON and when it is open it is considered OFF.

1 2 3 4 G

RELAYS
Low Voltage Relays enable control of room functions such as lighting, screen settings, and other device functions.
Relays show up one of two ways on Extron control processors, the first being a three-pole connector shown in Figure 1
1 2
1 2 C and the second being a four-pole connector as shown in Figure 2. In the example with the three-pole connection, both
relays share a common pole however relays with two-pole connectors do not. These relays are designed to connect to
RELAYS low voltage relay interfaces or contact closure interfaces on devices such as screen and drape motor controllers, lighting
Figure 1 Figure 2 controllers, and switchers.
Remote volume control allows for volume control of Extron MPA Series and select XTRA™ Series amplifiers.
VOL
V C G

Extron’s integration-friendly eBUS technology is based on a unique digital bus architecture that allows for easy control
eBUS system expansion, greater design options, and future upgrades. As with our TouchLink Pro touchpanels, eBUS button
+V +S +S G
panels are designed for use with any Extron IPCP Pro Series control processor. A single eBUS button panel can be used
as the AV control interface for a smaller system or multiple button panels and touchpanels may be combined when a
PWR OUT = W more elaborate control system is required.

The LAN connection supports 10/100BaseT Ethernet on IP Link control processors and 10/100/1000BaseT Ethernet
on IP Link Pro control processors allowing the control processor to interface with the network enabling product setup,
LAN LAN/PoE AV LAN
monitoring, and control of the entire system. Additionally, Extron control processors can control third party devices such
as projectors when connected to the same network. Select IP Link Pro control processors support Power over Ethernet
that allows the control processor to receive power and control over a single Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for a
local power supply. The AV LAN port isolates AV devices from the corporate network.
Independently switched 12V DC outputs allow one to provide power to auxiliary devices within a system.
1 2
This feature is exclusive to the IPCP Pro 550 and IPCP Pro 555.

+ - + -
SWITCHED 12 VDC
40W MAX TOTAL
12 VDC

www.extron.com 31
Control Software Overview

Over 20 years ago, Extron pioneered a unique approach to setting up an AV control system using simple, drag-and-drop configuration
software. The popularity of this user-friendly, configuration approach grew as platforms and system designs evolved. Recently, we took
this to the next level by introducing more powerful hardware and software and creating advanced configuration with our Pro Series
platform. But we had no intention of stopping there.

The same rock-solid platform that we use to program our Pro Series systems is available to customers, providing an ideal toolset for
creating robust, sophisticated, and elegant control systems. Whether it is the convenience of configuration with the industry's most
powerful configuration-based control system solution, or the unbridled freedom of Extron Control System Programming, you'll be
confident that you have the right solution for any AV application.

1996 2004 2008 2014 2015

SIS CONFIGURATION RESOURCE ADVANCED PYTHON

MANAGEMENT CONFIGURATION PROGRAMMING

Programming Software
Global Scripter and Extron
Programming
Global Scripter® is Extron’s Integrated Development
Environment that harnesses the dynamic power
and intuitive nature of the Python programming
language. Python is an efficient, object oriented
language that enables programmers to reuse
code and save valuable development time.
Programmers will immediately see the benefits of
the Global Scripter environment and of Python,
with its clearly-understood syntax and extensible
framework.

ControlScript - The Python Library for

AV Professionals
To help accelerate the learning and development
processes, Extron created a custom Python library
called ControlScript. ControlScript uses familiar AV Global Scripter
terms that make it easier to program AV control
system projects. When combined with Extron
Pro Series control hardware, Global Scripter and
ControlScript are poised to revolutionize the way
you deliver programmable control systems.

­32 Control Systems Design Guide

Python Advantages
Popularity
Extron Authorized Programmer Certification
Python is a well-established, object oriented
Extron Authorized Programmer – EAP is an Extron
programming language that delivers power
and flexibility. It is easily readable, editable, and Certification designed for AV professionals who will use
greatly enhances programmer productivity. The Global Scripter to deploy and maintain programmable
popularity of Python and its continuing growth Extron control systems. Learn how to develop a
is well-documented and is fueled by numerous programmed framework using Python, as well as best
programming resources, including a wide variety
practices for designing these systems and ensuring
of online courses and tutorials. In 2018, Python
optimal system performance.
achieved the Top Programming Language
position, according to IEEE Spectrum's rankings.
Extron Programming Forum
Open Source Extron has an online forum where peers can learn
Python is a modern, open source programming and share insights about using Python, Extron Global
language. Active online communities extend Scripter, and ControlScript. Extron moderators actively
Python’s capabilities by continually creating
support discussions, answer questions, and offer
additional libraries, modules, and projects. All of
recommendations to ensure the success of this thriving
these speed up development and lower costs.
control system programming community.
Dynamic Interpreted Language
Python is an interpreted language that offers a Global Scripter Modules
quicker workflow from editing code to testing Extron offers a full library of modules that speed up the
a program. Ultra-fast data parsing and real- development process for Pro Series control systems.
time event modification speed up and simplify
Device modules are time-saving, reusable program files
programming tasks.
that include all the commands necessary for integrating a
device into a Pro Series control system. Helper modules,
Human-Readable Syntax
The design philosophies of Python emphasize which include common AV operations and logic, can
code readability and simplicity. Its unique code be used in many different types of projects directly
structure is uncluttered by punctuation, features as provided or they can serve as examples to create
an efficient and concise lexicon, and uses white your own modules to suit almost any need. Modules
space to enhance readability.
are developed and tested to provide a consistent,
standardized coding approach that makes programming
Increased Productivity
more straightforward and troubleshooting more efficient.
Compared to other programming languages,
Python has a shallow learning curve. This
helps get programmers up and running quickly. PYPL Popularity of Programming Language
Programmers can write flexible programs without 50%

volumes of support code, providing quicker

turnaround and code verification.
10%

Extensible Programming 5%
Architecture
Using Extron ControlScript and Python,
programmers can extend the capabilities of a 1%
2005 2007 2009 2011 2013 2015 2017
system by adding or customizing modules to fit
the specific needs of the project. This adaptability
makes the language well-suited for the broadest Python has shown 10% increase in growth over the past
5 years — the most of any programming language.
variety of applications.

www.extron.com 33
Control Software Overview

Extron Qualified Independent Programmer

EQIP Program Benefits of EQIP for Extron Customers

The Extron EQIP program is designed to provide additional •E
 xtron project referrals ensure configurations and programs are
configuration and programming resources to customers provided by a trusted, local company
deploying Extron control solutions. Extron Qualified Independent •E
 QIP companies employ individuals who have achieved the
Programming companies are carefully screened and selected by Extron Control Professional and Extron Authorized Programmer
Extron to provide expert configuration and programming support certifications
for Extron Pro Series Control System projects. Extron customers
•E
 QIP companies meet strict business standards and have
may employ EQIP companies to augment their staff, execute
reputations as experienced, dependable service providers
projects, and provide options for more advanced AV systems.
•C
 onfiguration and programming services are available on a project-
EQIP companies have access to a variety of Extron resources
by-project basis, so customers can use EQIP companies and
including web-based tools, continuing education, and control
certified personnel without adding permanent staff
system training.
• Complete more projects by leveraging EQIP companies nationwide

­34 Control Systems Design Guide

Configuration Software
Global Configurator
Global Configurator Plus and Professional – GCP,
is Extron’s most powerful and versatile control
system configuration software. It is designed
to be used exclusively with Extron Pro Series
Control products, including TouchLink® Pro
touchpanels, IP Link® Pro control processors,
MediaLink® Plus controllers, and eBUS® button
panels. Powerful features, such as conditional
logic, variables, and macros provide greater
flexibility for more elaborate control system
designs. Global Configurator has two modes.
Global Configurator Plus is ideal for smaller Global Configurator Plus & Professional
applications requiring one control processor
and one control interface. Global Configurator
Professional is suited for applications requiring TouchLink Pro-Based System Features
multiple control processors, enhanced Global Global
Features
Configurator Plus Configurator Pro
functionality, and advanced configuration.
Control Processors supported per system 1 4
8 Primary + 16 Mirrored
Touchpanels supported per system 1 Primary + 1 Mirrored
(2 per primary)
GUI Designer Ethernet drivers supported 8 32
Extron GUI Designer is a software application Controller groups No Yes
used for the design, creation, and maintenance Macros Yes Yes
User defined commands supported Yes Yes
of Extron TouchLink Pro user interfaces. Begin
Multiple action scheduling Yes Yes
with ready-to-use design templates and resource Conditional logic Yes Yes
kits, or start from scratch and build your own Local variables Yes Yes
layout using our comprehensive software. The Library of Extron certified drivers Yes Yes
Extron control for iPad and Web Support Yes Yes
available design elements are fully customizable
Virtual TouchLink support Yes Yes
and matched carefully to popular AV system GUI design software GUI Designer GUI Designer
applications. In many cases, all the input LinkLicense Support Yes Yes
sources, display control, and environmental Controller Swap Yes Yes
Control Timers Yes Yes
settings are already in place. These resources
are fully developed and include complete, Comparison between Global Configurator Plus and Global Configurator Professional
detailed documentation. Once the interface has when configuring a TouchLink Pro-based system

been created, it can be imported into Global

Configurator Plus and Professional, and Global
MediaLink Plus-Based System Features
Scripter, respectively.
Global Global
Features
Configurator Plus Configurator Pro
Online Video Tutorials Controllers supported per system 1 1
Ethernet drivers supported 4 8
Extron has a library of online video tutorials to
Controller groups NA NA
help you learn more about the latest features in Macros Yes Yes
Extron control system software, including User defined commands supported Yes Yes
GC Plus, GC Pro, Global Scripter, and GUI Multiple action scheduling Yes Yes
Controller templates Yes Yes
Designer. These videos also highlight steps
Conditional logic Yes Yes
and helpful tips to accomplish common tasks Local variables Yes Yes
with ease, and successfully set up your control Library of Extron certified drivers Yes Yes
system. An Extron Insider account is required Extron control for iPad and Web Support Yes Yes
LinkLicense Support No No
to view these videos. Please visit Extron.com
Controller Swap Yes Yes
or contact your Extron Representative for more
Control Timers Yes Yes
information.
Comparison between Global Configurator Plus and Global Configurator Professional
when configuring a MediaLink Plus system or TLC Pro 521M

www.extron.com 35
Control Software Overview

Resource Management
GlobalViewer Enterprise
GlobalViewer® Enterprise software simplifies
AV system resource management with intuitive
control for hundreds of common AV tasks.
Whether you're working with 5 or 5000 rooms,
GVE provides a powerful, flexible way to
manage, monitor, and control nearly any device
over a standard network. It’s quite common
for corporations, universities, and government
agencies to have hundreds of collaboration
spaces spread over broad areas.

GVE allows you to manage this ever-increasing

AV technology while effectively leveraging
valuable help desk resources. The Help Desk
view in GVE provides all the information you need
from the entire enterprise or campus, all in one,
easy-to-navigate interface.

Detailed Metrics and Reporting

GlobalViewer Enterprise includes a SQL-based
data repository for logging device and room data.
This data is gathered for valuable management
reports covering network connections, device
usage, and AV equipment inventory. These
reports can be exported and help you slice data
in effective ways for maintaining inventory lists,
tracking and analyzing device and room usage,
and proactively planning maintenance activities to
reduce system downtime.

A custom REST API enables you to customize

how you view GVE data from each room and
device by displaying specific alerts, schedules, GlobalViewer Enterprise
monitors, logs, or calendar events from within
web applications you are already using.
iGVE Shown on iOS Devices

iGVE
Extron also offers a mobile AV resource
management App, iGVE. This powerful,
convenient App is used in conjunction with Extron
GlobalViewer Enterprise, and allows users to
effectively manage and control large-scale AV
installations from Apple iPad, iPhone, and iPod
touch devices.

­36 Control Systems Design Guide

 GVE Commissioning
GlobalViewer Enterprise Commissioning Service is a dedicated, premium technical assistance
program offered by Extron. As part of every GVE installation, Extron works with you every step of the way
to ensure the system meets your expectations. This includes a thorough, pre-installation system review,
guidance for your existing project files, as well as final system testing and training for your team. The
personalized approach ensures a trouble-free installation, optimal performance, and provides the team
with valuable resources so that GVE is used to its full potential. GlobalViewer Enterprise Commissioning
Service provides you with resources to speed up AV resource management system design, installation
and optimization. Extron Engineers will actively engage with you to help ease the learning curve typically
associated with new technology.

What’s included?

System Evaluation and Diagnostic

Extron will provide necessary and recommended changes to support successful deployment of GVE and
optimal performance of AV Systems.

Installation of GVE on a Single Server

• GVE setup and configuration
• To be completed by Extron staff remotely under the observation of End-user IT/AV staff

Operational Testing and Evaluation of GVE

GVE System Training

Detailed training of End-user IT/AV staff related to the operation and configuration of GVE to include:
• Adding/changing system hardware or rooms
• Device usage, trend analysis, and inventory report generation
• System Monitoring
• Event Scheduling
• Event Alerts

System Documentation
Extron will provide system documentation to the end-user following the successful completion of the GVE
Installation and Configuration.

GVE COMMISIONING
SERVICE

For more information, call an Extron Control System Support team member at: 800.633.9877
or visit our GVE email contact page: www.extron.com/GVEcontact

www.extron.com 37
Control Software Overview

Extron Control App

Extron Control is an easy-to-use AV control
system app that gives users complete access to
Extron control systems directly from Apple iOS
or Android devices. After a quick initial setup, the
device connects to the desired room, allowing for
a seamless, highly responsive control experience.
The app automatically loads the user interfaces
present on any Extron control product without
a lengthy setup and customization process.
The familiar interfaces emulate the TouchLink
touchpanel, eBUS button panel, or MediaLink
controller in your room, and all button presses
are kept in sync between the app and your
Extron control devices. Extron control on iOS and Android devices

Other powerful features include the ability to

quickly add rooms and switch between rooms,
and auto-reconnect which recalls the previous
session even after the app is closed. Technicians
will appreciate this new app as it supplements
the control of any room and provides easy
access for troubleshooting.

For educational institutions: Check with your

Extron Representative about special pricing on
Extron Control through the Apple Volume Pricing
Program.

Extron Control is available for immediate

MediaLink Controller screen on iPad
download from the App Store and Google Play.

•E
 xtron Control for iOS supports all TouchLink,
TouchLink Pro touchpanels, eBUS button
panels, and Ethernet-enabled MediaLink,
MediaLink Plus controllers

•E
 xtron Control for Android supports all
TouchLink Pro touchpanels, eBUS button
panels, and all MediaLink Plus controllers

•F
 amiliar user interface provides the same
experience as the touchpanel, button panel, or
controller

• Supports Extron LinkLicense

•R
 oom Manager allows users to easily add
touchpanels, button panels, or controllers and Room Connection Manager on iPad
customize room lists

•S
 upports portrait mode for TLP Pro 520M
TouchLink Pro Touchpanels and TLC Pro 521M
TouchLink Pro Controllers

­38 Control Systems Design Guide

Control System Utilities
Utilities are software applications required to
analyze, configure, optimize, and maintain the
control system.

Extron Toolbelt
The Extron Toolbelt utility is a powerful
standalone Windows® application created for the
management and troubleshooting of Pro Series
control systems. This utility allows users to easily
perform several different tasks such as; change
device network settings, add an email server,
upload firmware, view trace messages, remotely
reset and or reboot Pro Series control products,
and much more from a single application.
Additionally, Toolbelt allows for the management
of eBUS devices connected to a Pro Series Toolbelt
control processor as well as allowing for
LinkLicense installation. Devices on the network
can be automatically discovered or manually
added if desired. Toolbelt also provides users with
memory usage, device run time, author of the
current project, and software version used.

DataViewer
DataViewer is an enhanced terminal emulation
program that facilitates analysis of RS-232, USB,
and TCP/IP communication with Extron devices.
The software allows users to send commands
to a device and view the device's responses in
ASCII or hexadecimal format.

IR Learner Pro
IR Learner™ Pro is a Windows-based software
DataViewer
utility that captures infrared codes from IR
remotes and creates custom drivers for
controlling IR devices. It is designed for use
with Extron IP Link® Pro control processors
that feature a built-in IR capture port, such
as IPCP Pro control processors and the
IPL Pro IRS8. IR Learner Pro makes it easy to
establish communication with Extron IR learning
hardware by using a TCP/IP connection.

IR Learner Pro

www.extron.com 39
Room Scheduling

Book a Room the

Easy Way
We have simplified the room booking experience
with Extron Room Scheduling. This stand-alone
system consists of elegantly-designed TouchLink
Scheduling Panels that connect directly to
Microsoft Exchange, Office 365, or Google
Calendar. Users can reserve rooms with a couple
taps on the panel or from their mobile device.
Free Room Agent™ software makes setup a
breeze, allowing you to customize the touchpanel
interface with the meeting options you need.
Multiple mounting choices are available for the
touchpanels, including on-wall, in-wall, as well
as secure mounting to almost any flat surface,
including glass or granite.

TouchLink Scheduling Panels

Stylish, stand-alone TLS TouchLink Scheduling TLS 725M Shown Outside a Conference Room
panels connect to a variety of popular calendar
services and require no additional scheduling
software or external processors. They feature
vibrant touchscreens, Power over Ethernet, and
bright red and green LEDs that make it easy to
see if a room is occupied or available even from
down the hall. Right out of the box, the TLS
panels are ready to be customized with easy-to
use Room Agent Software.
TLS 525M TLS 725M

Room Agent Software

All TLS panels are configured with Extron's
free Room Agent software. Simply connect
the touchpanel to your computer, open Room
Agent, fill in the required fields that compose the
user interface, and you’re done. Customization
options include custom colors and background
images, interface text fields to be shown or
hidden, depending on user preference.
TLS 1025M

Minimal Network Impact

The network traffic generated by the touchpanel
and server communication is minimal. We have
created a Room Scheduling System Network
Impact Statement to illustrate the minimal impact
on your network.

Room Agent Software

­40 Control Systems Design Guide

Key Features
Room Scheduling Analytics
Room scheduling touchpanels provide the
information you need to closely analyze room
usage, activity patterns, and occupancy trends
across the organization. A Scheduling Activity
file with room usage and meeting data can
be downloaded concurrently from multiple
touchpanels. You can transform this readily-
available information with data analytics tools to
create powerful reports.

Room Occupancy Monitoring

Any TLS panel equipped with a digital input will
work with Extron OCS 100 series occupancy
sensors, which monitor room occupancy and,
after a user-defined time, release the room back to
available status. These sensors provide exceptional
coverage using ultrasonic and passive infrared
Scheduling Activity File imported into Microsoft Power BI
detection technologies. Integrated smart, adaptive
software automatically and continuously monitors
the environment and adjusts timer settings and
sensitivity, providing a lifetime of dependable
detection and maintenance-free operation.

RoomAware Workspace Automation

Extron RoomAware Workspace Automation is a
suite of time-saving features that anticipate user
needs and intelligently deliver room automation
and control across the enterprise. RoomAware
enables smart connections between Extron
devices and services to save valuable time by
preparing the room for the participant prior to their
arrival. OCS 100W Wall Mount OCS 100C Ceiling Mount
Occupancy Sensor Occupancy Sensor
A Secure Way to Book a Room
All communications between Room Agent
software and the room scheduling panels is
encrypted. In addition, users can select to display
only the information they want visible at each
location.

Mounting Options
A broad variety of mounting options are available,
including in-wall or on-wall, glass, or granite, or just
about any flat surface.

Multi-Language Support
Room Agent currently supports 26 languages, and
Extron is continually working to add more. RoomAware - Automation for the modern workspace

www.extron.com 41
Drivers and Modules

Control System Drivers

and Device Modules
Extron offers a library of Pro Series device drivers
and modules for use with Global Configurator
and Global Scripter respectively. These resources
enable you to start and execute projects quickly
to control various display and source devices,
such as projectors, flat-panel display, and Blu-ray
players.

Individual Drivers and Modules

To make it easier to find the right driver for your
AV device, Extron has developed an easy-to-use
online search tool. Use it to locate the individual
driver file for your specific device, or click the link
shown to download the entire package of drivers
or modules that are currently available.

•D
 rivers designated as “Extron Certified” were
written by Extron and have been reviewed
and tested. For more information about
specific device compatibility, please review the
communication sheet available for each driver.

•D
 rivers not designated as “Extron Certified”
Extron Device Driver Online Search Tool
were written and reviewed in-house by
Extron but not actually tested with one of the
supported devices listed for the driver.

•M
 odules are developed and tested to provide
a consistent, standardized coding approach
that makes programming more straightforward
and troubleshooting more efficient. As part of
Extron's commitment to programmer support,
we create and release modules on a regular
bases for a broad range of devices.

All the latest Extron Pro Series drivers are also

available for download as a Pro Series Driver
Package. The Driver Package, provided as a
single installation file, is updated weekly.

Driver Device Module Packages

Extron Pro Series Driver and Global Scripter
Device Module Packages are single installation
files that contain all of the latest Extron Pro Series
drivers and modules. These files are easy to
download and can be installed in the same way Extron Driver Package - device drivers for use with Extron Configuration Software
you would install a software application. These
packages are updated weekly.

­42 Control Systems Design Guide

 Control System Designs
The following AV control system designs represent typical control environments that exemplify the advanced features and sophisticated
control capabilities of Extron Pro Series control systems. In each example, we have made the signal paths easier to follow by simplifying the
diagrams to highlight the control aspects of each system.

Huddle Room
Use a Cable Cubby eBUS panel to control AV in a small meeting space. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Simple Classroom
Control AV in a classroom with an easy-to-use button panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Room Scheduling
Book a room the easy way with TouchLink Room Scheduling Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Computer Lab
Use an IPCP Pro control processor and GVE to control power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Videoconference Room with Cisco Touch 10
Use a Cisco Touch 10 touchpanel with Pro Series control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Web Conference Room with Zoom
Extend the capabilities of Zoom Rooms with TouchLink Pro and IP Link Pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Lecture Capture
Easily capture and share presentations with an SMP 351 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Small Divisible Room
Create a two-way divisible room. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Distance Learning
Create a system using multiple primary touchpanels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
House of Worship
Create a Controller Group using multiple IP Link Pro control processors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Large Divisible Room
Create a three-way divisible room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Convention Center
Use Serial over Ethernet drivers and create schedules for system efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Building Management System
Centralized monitoring and control of a building’s mechanical and electrical systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

www.extron.com 43
Huddle Room

Overview — Huddle Room

The huddle room is designed for a small group of team members to concentrate on the specific details of a project without the distractions that often occur in an
open office. The space is smaller than a typical meeting room, accommodating just a few people. A minimalistic technology approach is taken within these rooms.
This system supports three HDMI source connections at the table with quick and easy input selection. Cable management and AC power along with simple push
button display power control are provided for intuitive operation. AV signals are switched to a single flat panel display with an HDMI input.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron EBP 1200C Cable Cubby Button Panel Extron IPCP Pro 250 Control Processor Extron OCS 100W Occupancy Sensor

Extron IN1604 HD Scaler Extron MPA 152 Plus Stereo Amplifier Extron SM3 Surface Mount Speakers

Laptops (x3) BYOD HDTV flat panel display

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
The AV system needs to function with little or no training.
Additionally, this huddle space will be used by various
team members looking to meet at a moment’s notice.
They will need to be able to share content from laptops
during discussions. The EBP 1200C design offers easy
access to AV, data, and power connections. The button
panel is integrated to the lid to control connected devices
and can be easily concealed when not in use.
1. T
 he system will also support an automated power
management feature that will turn the system on or off
with the use of motion triggered events.
2. P
 resentation would like the ability to mute audio and
Configure the input buttons to provide live feedback of the currently selected input
video with a single button.
of the IN1604.

Key Configuration Concepts

1. W
 ith the use of the button panel, users can power the
system on/off, control volume level and route video
signals to display.
2. T
 he input buttons on the EBP 1200C are configured
to provide live real-time feedback of the input status.

Configure the Volume LEDs on the EBP 1200C to track the output volume of the IN1604.

­44 Control Systems Design Guide

 MOD
EL
80

Extron

Extron

FLA
T
PAN
EL

Extron
EBP 1200C
Series/2 Cable Access
Enclosure with
eBUS Button Panel
CUBBY
CABLE

Extron Table
EBP 1200C

Network Series/2 Cable Access

Switch and Enclosure with eBUS
LAN Button Panel

Extron Table
IN1604 HD
Extron Table Extron Room
1080p Display Under Table
IPCP Pro 250 Wall Mounted

Extron Room
Control Processor MPA 152 Plus
Wall Mounted

Huddle Room - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet RS-232 Relays and I/O eBUS

www.extron.com 45
Simple Classroom

Overview — Simple Classroom

This higher education classroom environment requires control of basic operations like projector power On/Off, input selection and volume level. The system must
be simple and intuitive to operate, and remote monitoring is desired. The end user prefers the wall mounted controller to have a contemporary look and feel and be
as compact as possible. Also, since the system will be used extensively on a day-to-day basis, reliability is important.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron MLC Plus 100 Controller Extron FF 120T - Pair, Flat Field Speakers Extron IN1604 DTP Scaler with DTP Extension

Extron DTP2 R 211 HDMI Receiver Extron MPA 601 70/100 V Amplifier Extron OCS 100W Occupancy Sensor

1080p Short-Throw Projector

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
The AV system needs to be operated with little or
no training. Additionally, the classroom will be used
by resident professors and substitute teacher staff
discussing different subjects with the use of the projector
as the primary display. Audio signals will be delivered
through an Extron amplifier that powers ceiling speakers
located above the students. Supported video sources
include a PC, Media Player and optional laptop input
which are connected to an HD video switcher.
1. E
 ach source will have a dedicated button on the
MediaLink Plus controller to select which video source
to display. Right click a command and select Generate Auto Toggle to automatically create
toggle logic for the button.
2. The system will also support an automated power
management feature that will turn the system on or off
with the use of motion triggered events.
3. Instructors would like the ability to mute audio and
video with a single button.

Key Configuration Concepts

1. C
 onfigure a monitor in Global Configurator Plus to
Configure the Mute button to toggle the Audio Mute and Video Mute of the IN1604
track the state of the digital input connected to an On and Off.
occupancy sensor that is used turn system on
and off.
2. H
 ave the system automatically reset the volume level
when the system is initially turned on.
3. G
 lobal Configurator Plus can be used to generate the
needed logic for turning mute on and off using the
Generate Auto Toggle feature.

­46 Control Systems Design Guide

 Extron
OCS 100W DISPLAY
PC

Occupancy ON OFF

Sensor VGA

VOLUME
DOC
CAM

MUTE

Extron

Extron
MLC Plus 100
MediaLink Plus Controller

DISPL
AY
ON

OFF

PC
VOL
UME
VGA

DOC
CAM

MUTE
Extron

Network
Switch and
VLAN

Extron Wall Extron Rack

IN1604 DTP
MLC Plus 100 Under Table

Classroom
Controller Projector
Wall Mount

Extron Classroom
OCS 100W
Wall Mount
Simple Class Room - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet RS-232 Relays and I/O

www.extron.com 47
Room Scheduling

Overview — Meeting Rooms with Extron Scheduling Panels

Extron has simplified the room booking experience with Extron Room Scheduling. This stand-alone system consists of elegantly-designed TouchLink Scheduling
panels that connect directly to Microsoft Exchange, Office 365, or Google Calendar.

All TLS panels are configured with Extron Room Agent™ software. Simply connect the touchpanel to your computer, open the free Room Agent software, fill in the
required fields to compose the user interface, and you’re done. Customization options include custom colors and background images, interface text fields to be
shown or hidden, depending on user preference.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron TLS 1025M Scheduling Panel Room Agent Software Extron OCS 100W Occupancy Sensor

Compatible Calendar Service - Microsoft, Google

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
Designers can offer users the ability to create on-demand
reservations for available meeting spaces for impromptu
discussions. The touchscreen provides a high-resolution
display that shows available times and the ability to
rescheduled events and review upcoming events. The
touchpanel is always updated by the associated calendar
and is able to show meeting cancellations, rescheduled
discussions, and last minute changes.

Room scheduling touchpanels have a reporting feature that

provides the information you need to closely analyze room
usage, activity patterns, and occupancy trends across the
organization. A Scheduling Activity file with room usage
and meeting data can be downloaded concurrently from
Room Agent Software
multiple touchpanels. You can transform this information
with data analytics tools to create powerful reports.

1. U
 sing Room Agent Software, detect the scheduling
panel on the local network and sync to a Microsoft
Exchange, Microsoft 365, or Google Calendar.
2. C
 ustomize the interface and add custom images to
display a company logo.

Key Configuration Concepts

1. C
 onfigure Occupancy sensors with Room Agent
software.
2. P
 ersonalize touchpanel interface images to match room
aesthetics and design concepts.

TLS 725M Room Scheduling Panel

­48 Control Systems Design Guide

 https
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OCS 100W
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Network
Switch And
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Extron Wallmount Extron Wallmount Extron Wallmount

TLS 1025M TLS 1025M TLS 1025M

Extron Wallmount Extron Wallmount Extron Wallmount

OCS 100W OCS 100W OCS 100W

Room Scheduling - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet Relays and I/O

www.extron.com 49
Computer Lab

Overview — Use an IPCP Pro control processor and GVE to control power
The system shown here features a computer lab that is controlled from an Extron TLP Pro 1025T TouchLink Touchpanel along with an Extron IPCP Pro 360
IP Link Pro Control Processor. The IPCP Pro 360 is a high-performance control processor with three dedicated AV LAN ports that are designed to control local
AV devices, and safeguard them from outside intrusion or interference. Two of these AV LAN ports also provide Power over Ethernet which can be used to power
touchpanels within the system. Additionally, this room can be remotely monitored and managed by Extron’s GlobalViewer Enterprise server-based software.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron IN1804 Four Input 4K/60 Seamless Scaling
Extron XPA 2004 Four Channel Amplifiers Extron TLP Pro 1025T TouchLink Touchpanel
Switcher

Extron SM 28 SpeedMount Two-Way Surface Mount

Extron DMP 12x8 ProDSP™ Digital Matrix Processors Extron GVE Server
Speakers

1080p Short Throw Projector with Projection

Blu-ray Player
Screen

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
After reviewing the customer’s requirements, determine
when the customer would like the control system to power
on the computers. Do they want the system to be powered
up at a specific time, or only when the start button on
the touchpanel is pressed? The customer would like to
dedicate a control network to transmit AV control signals to
equipment connected to the AV LAN. The separate network
provides a clean topology that can guarantee performance
Figure 1: Configuration for control of one or more PCs
when distributing control signals through Serial over
Ethernet and Ethernet controls.

Figure 2: Communications settings for the WOL - Wake On LAN driver

Key Configuration Concepts

Since WOL uses UDP, an IP address is not really required; however Global Configurator does require some kind of identifier. An easy way to
provide this identifier is use an IP address within the same subnet range as the control processor.

Figure 1: Since this driver is UDP-based, an IP address is not required, only one Ethernet port is required to control one or more PCs.

Figure 2: C
 ommunication settings for the WOL driver. Note: we are using the Aliasing feature of Global Configurator for naming the multiple PCs
in the room.

­50 Control Systems Design Guide

TLP Pro 1025T
10" Tabletop
TouchLink Pro
Touchpanel
Network
Switch and
LAN

Extron Rack Computers Lab

Blu-Ray Player 16 PCs
Network
Extron Rack Optical Media Player
Switch and
AV LAN
IPCP Pro 360 Extron Rack
GVE Server
IN1804
Control Processor Extron Podium Four Input 4K/60 Seamless Scaling Switcher
TLP Pro 1025T

Extron Rack
DMP 128
Extron Rack
XPA 2004 Digital Audio Matrix Processor

Lab
Video Projector
Extron Rack Short Throw Projector
XPA 2004

Lab
Screen Control
Wall Mounted

Computer Lab - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet RS-232 Relays and I/O

www.extron.com 51
Videoconference Room with Cisco Touch 10

Overview — Configure a system that incorporates keyboard and phonebook functionality

Extron IP Link® Pro control processors provide a broad range of AV system control capabilities. Now, these control processors work with the Cisco TelePresence®
Touch 10 touchscreen, enabling users to easily interact with Cisco videoconferencing systems and control other in-room devices with the touch or swipe of a
finger. This Cisco touchscreen enables users to make and manage video calls, share content, and access other features.

Materials Materials Materials

DTP CrossPoint 84 4K IPCP SA Scaling Matrix
HD Video Conference Codec Media Player and PC
Switcher with Built In Control Processor

55" or Larger 1080p LCD Displays,

Extron Cable Cubby 1402 Cisco TelePresence Touch 10
Two per system

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
After reviewing the customer’s requirements, it was
determined they wanted to take advantage of Cisco's
features. Some questions arose such as: Does the
customer want the inputs to be switched automatically
Create a string with the entered letters
or from the Cisco touch panel, or a combination of both?
Does the customer want the system to automatically
power on when participants are detected by an occupancy
sensor? Is there a requirement for the room to power down
automatically to reduce energy consumption?
1. L
 ooking at the screenshots on the right, you’ll see that
Extron’s Global Configurator template can be used as a
Phone book search
starting point to help integrators customize their project
and meet the operational requirements determined
earlier.
2. S
 upply the network settings for system components
and provide security credentials for connected system
components.

Key Configuration Concepts Completely clear this string

1. D
 evice driver, Global Configurator Plus configuration
template, Global Scripter module, and sample Global
Scripter project streamline setup in Pro Series control
systems.
2. E
 asily share video by pushing the show me cable button
on a connected laptop to display content during a video
conference call. Delete one or more characters

3. T
 elePresence Touch 10 user interface reflects system
status with each system action.
Extron offers a Global Configurator and a Global Scripter
template containing a standard Cisco user interface along
with basic control capabilities that can be fully customized.
Modules and drivers are available and can be incorporated
into a configuration to design a new generation of modern
workspaces. Designing controls from a small huddle Sending the string and collecting the entries
spaces to large conference room can be executed with
Extron control processors.

­52 Control Systems Design Guide

 Cisco
Telepresence Videoconference
Touch 10 Extron Codec
DTP CrossPoint 84 4K IPCP SA
COM
RTS
eBUS IR/S I/O RELAYS
INPUTS LOGO CONTROL I/O CTS
S LIMIT 1 1 2 1 2
Tx

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 SELECT ENTER PRESET VIEW ESC VIDEO AUDIO OVER

Rx

MIC VOLUME
1 2 3 2 3

VOLUME
4 3 4

1 2 3 4 CONFIG

OUTPUTS

DTP CROSSPOINT 4K SERIES

Media Player
DIGITAL PRESENTATION SWITCHER

PC

1
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1 4
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CROSSPOIN

DIGITAL
T 4K
PRESENTATION
SERIES
SWITCHER

CABLE
CABLE
CUBBY
CUBBY

Network
Switch and
VLAN
Extron Rack
Cisco VC Suite VC Suite
DTP CrossPoint 84 4K IPCP SA Cisco Touch 10 55" LCD Display
1080p LCD Display
Tabletop
Scaling Presentation Matrix VC Suite
55" LCD Display
Rack 1080p LCD Display
Cisco VTC Codec
Rack
Media Player

Video Conference Room with Cisco Touch 10 - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet RS-232

Videoconference dialer GUI On-screen keyboard GUI

www.extron.com 53
Web Conference Room with Zoom

Overview — Extend the capabilities of Zoom Rooms with TouchLink Pro and IP Link Pro
Over the past several years, there has been a trend to migrate from hardware-based video conferencing to software-based solutions, primarily due to lower cost of
entry as well as ease of deployment. With that in mind, many corporations have adopted solutions such as Zoom in their conference rooms that allows for virtually
anyone to join a meeting. Extron's collaboration solutions allow for these software-based systems to be easily integrated with the conference room AV systems
allowing for complete room control from a single interface.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron TeamWork Connect 300 Collaboration System Extron TLP Pro 1025T TouchLink Touchpanel Extron Cable Cubby 500 Cable Access Enclosure

Extron MediaPort 200 HDMI and Audio to USB

Logitech MeetUp All-in-One Conference Cam 1080p flat panel display
Scaling Bridge

Apple Mac mini

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
After reviewing the customer’s requirements, it was determined they
wanted to take advantage of Zoom Room features, control power for
Display, and switch video inputs seamlessly during their meetings.
Pertinent questions arose such as: Does the customer want the inputs
to be switched automatically or from the touch panel, or a combination
of both? Does the customer want the system to automatically power
on when participants are detected by an occupancy sensor? Is there a
requirement for the room to power down automatically to reduce energy
consumption?
1. U
 sing Extron’s Global Configurator template as a starting point,
Monitor to power on or off the display when the
integrators can customize the project to meet the operational status of the Digital Input changes
requirements determined earlier.
2. S
 upply the network settings for system components and provide
security credentials for connected system components.

Key Configuration Concepts

1. A
 monitor checking for the Digital Input status of the HC 404 is used
to track the status of the OCS 100 to drive the power of the flat panel
display.
2. E
 asily share video by pushing the show me cable button on a
connected laptop to display content during a video conference call.
3. T
 he HC 404 monitors the status of show-me cable buttons and Using the Zoom template and driver to control the
switches to the respective input when a user pushes the button. Zoom Room

Extron offers a Global Configurator and a Global Scripter template

containing a familiar Zoom user interface along with basic control
capabilities that can be fully customized. Modules and drivers are
available and can be incorporated into a configuration to design a new
generation of modern workspaces. Designing controls from a small
huddle spaces to large conference room can be executed with Extron
control processors.
4. C
 onfigure display power settings and incorporate occupancy sensor
to power on/off display through the use of CEC.

This image can be used on the TLP Pro 1025T

­54 Control Systems Design Guide

Extron
TLP Pro 1025T
10" Tabletop
TouchLink Pro
Touchpanel

CABLE
CABLE
CUBBY
CUBBY

Network
Switch and
VLAN

Extron Table Extron Room Room

TLP Pro 1025T 55" OLED Display
HC 404 Tabletop Wall Mounted
Room
Transmitter Computer
Wall Mounted

Room
Lighting
Ceiling Mounted
Zoom Rooms - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet RS-232 Relays and I/O

www.extron.com 55
Lecture Capture

Overview — Easily capture and share presentations with an SMP 351

Lecture capture is a wide-ranging term used to describe various technologies that allow instructors to record lectures, presentations, or any other event that
occurs in the classroom and later make it available digitally for consumption. The system shown here is a simple classroom featuring an Extron SMP 351
Streaming Media Processor that provides the desired recording capabilities for recording lectures that can later be uploaded to a Learning Management System.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron IPL Pro CR88 Control Processor Extron MPA 601 Mono 70/100 V Amplifier Extron FF 220T Full-Range Flat Field Speakers

Extron SMP 351 H.264 Streaming Media Processor Extron TLP Pro 725T TouchLink Touchpanel PTZ Camera

Video Projector

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
After reviewing the system requirements, the Extron
SMP 351 H.264 Streaming Media Processor was
selected to capture the classrooms lectures. The Extron
SMP 351 provides the desired recording capabilities
for recording lectures that can later be uploaded to a
Learning Management System.

The instructor has full control over the classroom

presentation and the recording of the presentation from
the lectern touchpanel. The recorded presentation can
be stored on a local USB drive or transferred to a network
storage location.

Key Configuration Concepts

1. T
 he instructor needs the ability to select from TouchLink Pro GUI for SMP 351 Control
local sources during the classroom presentation.
Sources such as the lectern computer, laptop or
document camera can be switched on Channel A
of the SMP 351. The Room Camera feed is routed
to Channel B of the SMP 351.
2. C
 onfigure Record, Stop and Pause buttons for the
SMP 351 to allow the instructor to start and stop the
recording of the presentation from the touchpanel.
3. P
 reset Buttons can be configured to give the instructor
control over the layout of Channel A and B as stated in
the requirements.
4. A
 dditional controls can be configured for the room
volume and camera controls.

Video Playback from SMP 351

­56 Control Systems Design Guide

 Network
Switch and
VLAN

Extron Rack Extron Podium

TLP Pro 725T
IPL PRO CR88
Extron
SMP 351
Controller Processor
Ceiling Mounted
Video Projector

Instructor
Screen Control PTZ Camera
Wall Mounted
Lecture Capture - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet Relays and I/O

www.extron.com 57
 Small Divisible Room

Overview — Create a two-way divisible room

A divisible room is any room that can be sectioned off with folding walls or sliding doors which allows one to alter the space to accommodate the size of the
event. In this application, when the air wall is closed the two rooms will be able to operate independent of each other however when the air wall is opened the
rooms will effectively be combined. The combined room can be controlled from either touchpanel and the AV sources from either room will automatically be
routed to both displays depending the instructor’s input from the touchpanel. There is a partition sensor mounted on the ceiling that detects whether the airwall is
open or closed and based on that a digital input will be triggered effectively combining or separating the two rooms.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron IPCP Pro 360 Control Processor Extron TLP Pro 1025T TouchLink Touchpanels Extron DMP 12x8 ProDSP™ Digital Matrix Processors

Extron SM 28 SpeedMount Two-Way Surface Mount

Extron DXP 84 HD 4K PLUS HDMI Matrix Switcher Extron XPA 2004 Four Channel Amplifier (x2)
Speakers (x2)

Extron SMD 101 Streaming Media Decoder(x2) 70” or Larger 1080p LCD touchscreen display Video Projectors

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
After reviewing the customer’s requirements, it was
determined that the customer would like the rooms to
automatically combine and separate based upon status
of the partition sensor. The partition sensor is connected
to one of the digital inputs of the control processor, so a
monitor will have to be created to track the state of this
digital input and based upon that state the room will be
considered combined or separated respectively. Video
and Audio signals will be duplicated in both rooms when
system is operating in the combined state. Touchpanels
Configure partition sensor to recognize room state
will provide the same interface to manage connected input
sources located in either classroom. When the system
is operating as independent rooms, the controller can
operate a shared Blu-ray player. Display BYOD laptops by
connecting to the interface panels located on podiums to
display presentations on the projection screen and sound
system.

1. D
 esign the user Interface using GUI Designer.

Tip: Extron provides high resolution graphical resources

Setup sources to function as either separate or combined
that can be used for developing your UI.

2. Configure the system using Global Configurator Plus.

Key Configuration Concepts

1. D
 esign User Interface using GUI Designer.

2. C
 onfigure the system using Global Configurator Professional.

3. In the individual mode, rooms 1 and 2 will work independently as simple, single display rooms.

4. C
 onditional logic is used to define the state of the system when rooms 1 and 2 are either combined or separated.

5. W
 hen the two rooms are combined into one room all the touchpanels will be synced, both the projectors will be showing the same content
and will be powered on and off at the same time.

­58 Control Systems Design Guide

 Partition Sensor
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Switch and Blu-Ray Player Computer
Extron Rack Optical Media Player Desktop
AV LAN
IPCP Pro 360 Extron Rack Room 2
Extron Wall SMD 101 Computer
Control Processor TLP Pro 1025M
H.264 Streaming Media Decoder Desktop

Extron Rack
Extron Wall
SMD 101
TLP Pro 1025M
Extron Rack H.264 Streaming Media Decoder
XPA 2004
Extron Rack
DXP 84 HD 4K

Extron Rack
XPA 2004
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DMP 128
Digital Audio Matrix Processor
Extron Rack
Air Wall
Extron Room 1
Partition Sensor Video Projector
Ceiling Mounted
Room 1
Screen Control
Extron Room 2
Wall Mounted Video Projector
Ceiling Mounted
Room 2
Screen Control
Wall Mounted
Small Divisible Room - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet RS-232 Relays and I/O

www.extron.com 59
Distance Learning

Overview — Create a system using multiple primary touchpanels using GC Pro

Distance Learning uses video conferencing technology to help connect teachers and students. This technology allows for real-time engagement and collaboration
and greatly expands the university’s global reach.

The system shown here features multiple rooms that students use to remotely interact with their instructors. Each room features multiple tabletop microphones
and an HD video conferencing system. The rooms can be reconfigured for larger groups and can also be used as traditional classrooms for local instruction.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron XTP2 CrossPoint 3200 Modular Digital Matrix
Extron IPCP Pro 550 Control Processor Extron TLP Pro 1520TG TouchLink Pro Touchpanels
Switcher

Extron TLP Pro 1025T TouchLink Pro Touchpanels Extron XPA 1002 Plus Power Amplifier Extron AXP 50 C AT Audio Expansion Processor

Extron SM 28 SpeedMount Surface Mount Speakers HD Video Conference Codec 19" Equipment Rack Enclosure - 42U Minimum

55" or Larger 1080p LCD Displays Extron DMP 128 Plus Digital Matrix Processor

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
After reviewing the customer’s requirements it was
determined that the customer would like the video
conferencing system’s camera to track the active
microphone. The AXP 50 C AT is configured to detect
the active microphone by utilizing its digital inputs; when
the user presses the activation switch the microphone is
un-muted. The control processor actively monitors which
microphones are unmuted and recalls the appropriate
camera preset to focus on the active speaker.

1. D
 esign the user interfaces using GUI Designer. Two Monitor to recall the appropriate camera preset when the input gain mute block is
interfaces are needed, one for each touchpanel. un-muted

2. Configure the system using Global Configurator Pro.

Key Configuration Concepts

1. T
 he AXP 50 C AT Audio Expansion Processor is
connected to the DMP 128 Digital Matrix Processor
using the Dante Network. In order for these two
processors to communicate with each other, the
DMP 128 Plus will need to be configured with Extron
DSP Configurator Software. This enables the processor
to utilize the AXP 50 CAT I/Os as a push-to-talk scenario.
After that is configured, GC Pro can be set up to monitor
the state of the input gain mute block on the DMP 128
and, in turn, can recall the appropriate camera preset.

The top screen shot on this page is an example of using

Monitor to detect whether or not a specific input gain
mute block is un-muted on the DMP 128 and, if so, it will
Far end camera controls
recall a camera preset to focus on the active speaker.

­60 Control Systems Design Guide

 Extron
OVER
TEMP
1 2

LIMITER/PROTECT
SIGNAL
XPA 1002 Plus
XPA 1002 Plus
OVER 1 2 OVER 1 2
TEMP TEMP
LIMITER/PROTECT LIMITER/PROTECT
SIGNAL SIGNAL
XPA 1002 Plus XPA 1002 Plus

Extron
IPCP PRO 550
COM
SWITCHED RTS IR/SERIAL RELAYS FLEX eBUS
12 VDC I/O
CTS 1000
1 2 LIMIT 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 S LIMIT
R Tx Tx LINK
IR

Extron
Rx Rx ACT
3 4 OVER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 3 4 OVER

INPUTS OUTPUTS
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
ACTIVITY

IPCP Pro 550

CLIP CLIP
EXP LAN USB
SIGNAL SIGNAL
CONFIG

DMP 128 Plus

DIGITAL MATRIX PROCESSOR

Extron DMP 128 Plus IP Link Pro Control Processor

Digital Matrix
TLP Pro 1520TG Processor
15" Tabletop Videoconference
TouchLink Codec (3)
Pro Touchpanel
Extron (Lectern)
TLP Pro 1025T 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
INPUTS

10" Tabletop
17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 CONTROL I/O

Extron
ENTER PRESET VIEW ESC VIDEO AUDIO

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

TouchLink
CONFIG
1 3

OUTPUTS 2 4
POWER

Pro Touchpanel AXP 50 C AT Extron

(Each Classroom) Audio Expansion XTP CROSSPOINT 3200
XTP SERIES DIGITAL MATRIX SWITCHER

XTP II CrossPoint 3200

Processor Modular Digital Matrix Switcher
Extron

Extron
Extron
Extron

AXP 50 C AT
Audio Expansion
AXP 50 C AT
CABLE
CUBBY

Extron

Processor
Audio Expansion (2 places)
Processor
(2 places)
AT
C
50PROCESSOR
AXP
EXPANSION
AUDIO
5
4
INPUTS3
2
1

CLIP
SIGNAL

Extron

Extron

OVER
TEMP
1
2
LIMITER/PROTECT
SIGNAL

OVER
TEMP
1
2
LIMITER/PROTECT
SIGNAL

XPA
1002
Plus

R
SWITCHED XPA
12
1 VDC 1002
2 LIMIT OVER
COM Plus
TEMP
3 Tx 1
4 OVER
Rx 2
1 RTS
2 LIMITER/PROTECT
3 CTS IR/SERIAL
4 SIGNAL
5 Tx 1
6
7 Rx 2
8 3
4 RELAYS
CONFIG 5 1
6 2
7 3 IPCP
8 4 FLEX
I/O
EXPACTIVITY 5
6 1 PRO
2 eBUS
LAN 7
8 SLIMIT
550
USB 3
4 1000
OVERIRLINK
CLIP ACT
1
SIGNAL 2
3
4INPUTS XPA
5
6 1002
7
8 Plus
9
10
11
12

CLIP
1 OUTPUTS
SIGNAL 2
3
4
5
6
7
8

DM
DIGI
TALP 128
MATRIX
Plus
PROCESSOR

Extron

1
2
17 3
18 4
5
19 6
1 20 7 INPUTS
2 21 8
17 3 22 9
18 4 23 10
19 5 24 11
20 6 25 12
CUBBY
21 7 26 13
CABLE
22 8 27 14
23 9 28 15
10 29 16
24 11 30
25 12 31
OUTPUTS
26 13 32
27 14
28 15
29 16
30
31
32
CONFIG
ENTER CONTROL
PRESET
VIEW
1
3 ESC
I/O
2
4 VIDEO
POWER
AUDIO

XTP
CROSSPOINT
XTP
SERIES
TAL
DIGI
ATRIX3200
M
SWITCHER

Extron

CUBBY
CABLE

CABLE
CUBBY

Extron

CLIP
INPUTS
SIGNAL
1
2
3
4
5

AUDIO AXP
EXPANSION
50
C
AT
PROCESSOR

AT
C
50PROCESSOR
AXP
EXPANSION
AUDIO
5
4
INPUTS3
2
1

CLIP
SIGNAL

Extron

Network
Switch and
VLAN

Extron Rack Room 1

Extron Rack
XTP II CrossPoint 3200 55" LCD Display
IPCP Pro 550 1080p LCD Display
Modular Digital Matrix Switcher
Extron Rack Room 1
Control Processor DMP 128 Plus C AT 55" LCD Display
Digital Audio Matrix Processor 1080p LCD Display
Extron Rack Rack Room 2
Videoconference 55" LCD Display
XPA 1002 Plus Codec
1080p LCD Display
Extron Rack Rack Room 2
Videoconference 55" LCD Display
XPA 1002 Plus Codec
1080p LCD Display
Extron Rack Rack Room 3
Videoconference 55" LCD Display
XPA 1002 Plus Codec
1080p LCD Display
Room 1 Room 3
TLP Pro 1025T 55" LCD Display
10" Tabletop Touchlink Pro Touchpanel 1080p LCD Display
Room 2
TLP Pro 1025T
10" Tabletop Touchlink Pro Touchpanel
Room 3
TLP Pro 1025T
10" Tabletop Touchlink Pro Touchpanel
Lectern
TLP Pro 1520TG
15" Tabletop Touchlink Pro Touchpanel

Distance Learning - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet RS-232 Relays and I/O

www.extron.com 61
House of Worship

Overview — Create a Controller Group using multiple IP Link Pro control processors
Many houses of worship feature high end sound, lighting and video systems used for displaying various types of content during worship services or other special
events. These systems typically feature two or more large projection screens which can show the same or different content.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron DXP 44 HD 4K Plus Matrix Switcher Extron IN1606 Scaling Presentation Switcher Extron DVS 605 Seamless Switching Scaler

Extron SW4 HDMI Switcher Extron TLP Pro 725M TouchLink Touchpanel Extron TLP Pro 725T TouchLink Touchpanel

Latest Generation Apple iPad Dual 1080p Projectors with Projection Screens Extron IPCP Pro 550 Control Processor

Extron IPCP Pro 350 Control Processor

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
The customer wanted to update their aging AV system with
AV control that was, at the same time, state-of-the-art and
easy to use. The users of the system were accustomed
to the way their control interface worked, and wanted the
same type of user experience with the new system. The
system contains a movable AV cart filled with various gear
as well as a secondary control system. The customer also
wanted an iPad as an additional point of control for the Password protection of the control system
system.

1. D
 esign the user interface for the touchpanels
using GUI Designer.

2. C
 onfigure the system using Global Configurator
Professional.
Initial setup of wall-mounted touchpanel lockout
Key Configuration Concepts
For this application, GC Pro is required because controller
grouping is needed as well as the use of two primary
touchpanels. 

1. Logic for locking-out the secondary touchpanel.

 hen one of the touchpanels is in use, the other

W
touchpanel needs to be locked out so the system can only
be controlled using one touchpanel at any given time.

2. Logic for password protection of the control system.

Key pad for password protection

­62 Control Systems Design Guide

Extron
DMP 128 Plus IPCP PRO 550 Extron Extron
IPCP Pro 550
COM

Digital Matrix TLP Pro 725M

SWITCHED RTS IR/SERIAL RELAYS FLEX eBUS
12 VDC I/O
1 2 LIMIT
CTS
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 S LIMIT
1000
R Tx Tx LINK
IR
Rx Rx ACT
3 4 OVER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 3 4 OVER

Processor INPUTS OUTPUTS

IP Link Pro Control 7" Wall Mount
Processor
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
ACTIVITY

TouchLink Pro
CLIP CLIP
EXP LAN USB
SIGNAL SIGNAL
CONFIG

DMP 128 Plus

Extron
DIGITAL MATRIX PROCESSOR

Touchpanel
IN1606 STANDBY/ON
PQLS HDMI OPEN/CLOSE FL OFF

USB
Blu-ray Player
Presentation INPUTS
MENU
SCALING PRESENTATION SWITCHER
IN1606

Switcher
INPUTS OUTPUTS

1 2 3 4 5 6 SIGNAL
1 2 3 4 5 6 A B
CONFIG
HDCP
ENTER VOLUME

Extron INPUTS OUTPUTS DXP HD 4K PLUS SERIES

1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 INPUTS D I G I TA L C R O S S P O I N T M AT R I X S W I T C H E R

Extron
VIDEO
ENTER PRESET ESC I/O SIGNAL

5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
CONFIG
HDCP
AUDIO

DXP 44 HD 4K Plus
HDMI Matrix
Switcher

serial
usb-a
audio
out
audio lan
1audio hdmi
in
2 audio
in
monitor
in
video out
s-video computer
usb-b
in
1computer

in
2

serial
audio usb-a
out
audio lan
1audio hdmi
in
2
inaudio monitor
in
video out
s-video computer
usb-b
in
1computer

in
2

Extron
TLP Pro 725T
7" Tabletop
TouchLink Pro
Touchpanel

350
PRO 3
LAN
2
IPCP 1
1000
LINK
IR
ACT
605
12
RELAYS DVS
I/O SCALER
12 34
IR/S
COM 1 3 4 VIDEO
RTS
CTS 2 ADJUST
DIGITAL
eBUS Tx 2 3
S
LIMITRx
1 MENU
OVER NEXT
OUTPUT
R

INPUTS 4
3 AUTO
SIGNAL
1
2
PLUS 3
4K
HD HDMI
SWITCHER
2 SWAP
HDCP
SW4 PIP
4 1 5 PLAY
TIMER
OFF
4 OFF
INPUTS
3
FL RECORDER
2
USB INPUTL
CONFIG
1 OPEN/CLOSE REWRITABLE
CD R
HDMI
AUTO
SWITCH CONFIG
R
KEYBOARD
INPUT
SELECT
REC
STNC
PQLS RECORD
DISPLAY PAUSE
PLAY
REPEAT TIME
STOP
OPEN/CLOSE
ESCAPE
MENU
ERASE
TEXT
DEL
STANDBY/ON MULTI
JOG
INS CD

POWER

RECORDER

PHONES
REWRITABLE
CD

Network
Switch and
VLAN
Extron Grouped
SW4 HD 4K Plus
HDMI Switcher IPCP PRO 350
Extron Rack Extron Cart Extron Rack
DMP 128 Plus
INPUTS OUTPUT

Extron IPCP Pro 550 IPCP Pro 350

INPUTS COM
AUTO SIGNAL LAN
SWITCH RTS
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 eBUS IR/S I/O RELAYS 1 2 3
CTS
1000
R HDCP S LIMIT 1 1 2 1 2
R Tx IR LINK
CONFIG
Rx ACT
SW4 HD 4K PLUS OVER 1 2 3 2 3 4 3 4
HDMI SWITCHER

IPCP Pro 350 1 2 3 AUTO MENU

ADJUST
DIGITAL VIDEO SCALER
DVS 605

Digital Matrix Processor

IP Link Pro
4 5 PIP SWAP NEXT
CONFIG

Control Processor Extron Rack

STANDBY/ON
PQLS HDMI OPEN/CLOSE FL OFF
Control Processor Control Processor DXP 44 HD 4K Plus
Extron
USB

CD REWRITABLE RECORDER TIMER

4x4 HDMI Matrix Switcher

DVS 605
OFF PLAY

POWER OPEN/CLOSE REPEAT DISPLAY

INPUT

MENU ESCAPE TIME

Sanctuary
L

Scaler with
PHONES

MULTI
R
Sanctuary Extron Rack
TLP Pro 725M
JOG INPUT

Screen Control
ERASE STOP PLAY PAUSE RECORD

Seamless IN1606
STNC REC SELECT KEYBOARD

CD REWRITABLE RECORDER
INS DEL
CD TEXT

Switching Wall Mounted Wall Mount HDCP-Compliant Scaling Switcher

Blu-ray Player Sanctuary
Sanctuary Sanctuary
CD Recorder Screen Control TLP Pro 725T Latest Generation
Apple iPad
Wall Mounted Desktop
Sanctuary Cart Sanctuary
Projector Lift SW4 HD 4K Plus Video Projector
Ceiling Mounted Switcher with Contact Closure Ceiling Mounted
Sanctuary Extron Cart Sanctuary
Projector Lift DVS 605 Video Projector
Ceiling Mounted HDCP-Compliant Scaler with Ceiling Mounted
Seamless Switching
Rack
Blu-ray Player
Cart
Blu-ray Player

Cart
CD Recorder

House Of Worship - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet RS-232 Relays and I/O

www.extron.com 63
Large Divisible Room

Overview — Create a three-way divisible room

A divisible room is a large room that can be sectioned off with folding walls or sliding doors which allows one to alter the space to accommodate the size of the
event. In this application, the AV in the divisible room can be operated from a centralized touchpanel in the main rack and can be programed to automatically
reconfigure AV signal routing based on the configuration of the folding walls. When in separate mode, each room can be operated independently with the wall-
mounted touchpanel in each room.

Materials Materials Materials

XTP 2 CrossPoint 3200 Extron SMD 101 H.264 Streaming Media Decoder Extron DMP 128 Plus Digital Matrix Processor

Ceiling Mounted Projectors with screens Extron EBP 100 eBUS Button Panel Extron IPCP Pro 550 Control Processor

Extron SM 28 Two-Way SpeedMount Surface Mount

Extron TLP Pro 1025M TouchLink Pro Touchpanels Extron SMP 351 H.264 Streaming Media Processor
Speakers

Extron XPA 2004 Plus Power Amplifiers Central Rack PC Blu-Ray Player

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
After reviewing the customer’s requirements, determine
what you need the devices to do within the scope
of your divisible room application. For example does
the customer want the ability to globally override the
video and audio routing in the system from a central
touchpanel, or the ability to adjust the audio levels in
the room? Does the customer require simple control
for instructors as well as more advanced control for the
technician? Do they want the rooms to automatically
configure themselves using sensors on the folding
walls, or for this to be a manual process of selecting the
appropriate configuration from the touchpanel?

Key Configuration Concepts

1. D
 esign User Interface using GUI Designer.
2. C
 onfigure the system using Global Configurator
Professional.
An example of the logic showing the initial setup of all the projectors and input switching when
3. In the individual mode, rooms A, B, and C will work the state of the folding walls is open.
independently as simple, single display rooms.
4. T
 he other modes in which this system can be used are rooms
AB combined and C separate, Rooms BC combined and A separate, or Rooms A, B, and C combined.
5. C
 onditional logic is used to define the state of the system when Rooms A, B, and C are combined.
With the power of IPCP Pro control processors, eBUS panels and TouchLink panels can co-exist in the same system and the two
technologies can function together to provide simple control as well as more complex control. When the three rooms are combined into
one room the touchpanel and button panels will be synced, all the projectors will be showing the same content, and will be powered on
and off at the same time.
6. When
 the instructor needs assistance he can request the system administrator to override the system for setup or troubleshooting.

­64 Control Systems Design Guide

 DISPLAY
PC
ON OFF

LAPTOP
Extron
VOLUME
EBP 100
VIDEO
eBUS Button Panel
2-Gang

enter

.
+

0
6
-

2
*

1
F19

8
/

4
F18

7
F17

clear

down
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control
page
pageup

end

shift
F15

option
home

delete

return
F14

command
DISPLAY

fn

\
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delete

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F9

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CAM

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command
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MUTE
Extron

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command
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command
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command
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2

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caps
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tab
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STANDBY/ON

IR

CONFIG PQLS

IR

CONFIG

HDMI

OPEN/CLOSE
Extron
SMD FL
CHANNEL OFF
101
USB USB
CHANNEL A
STORAGE
CONFIG 1 SMD

Extron
B 2 101
3 IR
CHANNEL 4
USB 5 AUDIO
CONFIG
CHANNEL A
STORAGE L
CONFIG 1 MARK R LAYOUT
B 2 PRESET
3 SWAP
4
5 AUDIO
L
MARK R LAYOUT
PRESET
Extron
MENU SMD
SWAP 101
CHANNEL
NEXT ADJUST
USB
CHANNEL A
STORAGE
CONFIG 1
B 2 I/O
3 MENU
1
4 2
3 Streaming

R SWITCHED
5 AUDIO
NEXT ADJUST
4 SMP
351
Media
12 L
1 2 VDC Processor
LIMIT
COM MARK R LAYOUT
3 4 Tx PRESET
OVER I/O
Rx
1
12 RTS SWAP 2
34 CTS IR/SERIAL 3 Streaming
56 Tx 4 SMP
7 8Rx 1 2 3 351
Media
4 RELAYSFLEX
56 12 Processor
78 34 IPCP
56 I/O
1 2 eBUS PRO
78 550 MENU
SLIMIT
34
1000 ADJUST
OVERIRLINK NEXT
CONFIG ACT

EXP
ACTIVITY I/O
LAN 1
USB 2 Streaming
3
4 SMP
GREEN
AMBER CLIP 351
Media
1
SIGNAL
- ACTIVE 2
- STANDBY 3 INPUTS Processor
4
5
OVER 6
TEMP 7
8
1 9 101
2 1 12
3
4
CLIP
LIMITER 1 OUTPUTS
SIGNAL 2
SIGNAL 3
4
/ PROTECT 5
6
7
8
GREEN
AMBER
- ACTIVE
- STANDBY
OVER
TEMP
1
2
GREEN
AMBER
3
4
- ACTIVE LIMITER
- STANDBY
SIGNAL
OVER / PROTECT DM
DIGI
TEMP TALP
M 128
ATRIX
1 Plus
2 PROCESSOR
3
4
LIMITER XPA
SIGNAL 2004
/ PROTECT

XPA
2004

XPA
2004

1
2
17 3
18 4
5

Extron
19 6
1 20 7 INPUTS
2 21 8
17 3 22 9
18 4 23 10
19 5 24 11
20 6 25 12
21 7 26 13
22 8 27 14
23 9 28 15
10 29 16
24 11 30
25 12 31
OUTPUTS 26 13 32
27 14
28 15
29 16
30
31
32
CONFIG
ENTER CONTROL
PRESET
VIEW
1
3 ESC
I/O
2
4 VIDEO
POWER
AUDIO

TLP Pro 1025M

XTP
CROSSPOINT
XTP
SERIES
TAL
TRIX3200
A
DIGI
M
SWITCHER

10" Wall Mount

TouchLink Pro
Touchpanel

Blu-ray Player

Extron
STANDBY/ON
PQLS HDMI OPEN/CLOSE FL OFF

USB

SMD 101 Network

Extron Room 1
IR

Streaming Media
CONFIG

Switch And
SMD 101

Decoder (3) EBP 100

IR IR
CONFIG CONFIG

SMD 101 SMD 101

VLAN Wall
Extron CHANNEL A

1 2
AUDIO
L R LAYOUT
PRESET
MENU
ADJUST
I/O
1
SMP 351
Streaming Media Processor

Extron
Extron Room 2
CHANNEL B 2
3 4 5
SMP 351 Extron Rack
USB STORAGE
CONFIG MA R K S WA P NEXT 3
4

Extron CHANNEL A

CHANNEL B
1
3
2
4 5
AUDIO
L R LAYOUT
PRESET
MENU
ADJUST
I/O
1
2
SMP 351
Streaming Media Processor

Streaming Media Extron Rack EBP 100

XTP II CrossPoint 3200
USB STORAGE
CONFIG MA R K S WA P NEXT 3

Processor (3)
4

IPCP Pro 550 Wall

Extron Modular Digital Matrix Switcher
Extron CHANNEL A

1 2
AUDIO ADJUST SMP 351
Extron Room 3
IPCP Pro 550
L R LAYOUT
PRESET
MENU I/O Streaming Media Processor

EBP 100
1

Extron Rack
CHANNEL B 2
USB STORAGE
CONFIG
3 4 5 MA R K S WA P NEXT 3
4

COM
IPCP PRO 550

IP Link Pro Control Control Processor DMP 128 Plus Wall

SWITCHED RTS IR/SERIAL RELAYS FLEX eBUS
12 VDC I/O

Processor
CTS 1000
1 2 LIMIT 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 1 2 S LIMIT
R Tx Tx LINK
IR
Rx Rx ACT
3 4 OVER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 5 6 7 8 3 4 OVER

Extron Digital Audio Matrix Processor

1 2 3 4
INPUTS
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1
OUTPUTS
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 DMP 128 Plus Extron Rack Extron Rack Rack
SMP 351 Blu-ray Player
ACTIVITY

Digital Matrix Processor

CLIP CLIP
EXP LAN USB

XPA 2004
SIGNAL SIGNAL
CONFIG

DMP 128 Plus

DIGITAL MATRIX PROCESSOR

Streaming Media Processor Optical Media Player

1 2 3 4
GREEN - ACTIVE OVER
AMBER - STANDBY TEMP LIMITER / PROTECT
SIGNAL
XPA 2004

Extron
XPA 2004 Extron Rack Extron Rack Extron Rack
GREEN - ACTIVE
AMBER - STANDBY
OVER
TEMP
1 2 3 4
LIMITER / PROTECT
SIGNAL
XPA 2004 XPA 2004 SMP 351 SMD 101
GREEN - ACTIVE
AMBER - STANDBY
OVER
TEMP
1 2 3 4
LIMITER / PROTECT
SIGNAL
XPA 2004
Streaming Media Processor Streaming Media Decoder
Extron Rack Extron Rack Extron Rack
Extron XPA 2004 SMP 351 SMD 101
XTP II CrossPoint 3200 Streaming Media Processor Streaming Media Decoder
Modular Digital Matrix
Switcher Room All Combined Extron Rack
Air Walls Video Projector SMD 101
INPUTS
Limit Switch Sensors Ceiling Mounted Streaming Media Decoder
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 All Combined Room 1

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 CONTROL I/O

Screen Control Video Projector Rack

Computer
ENTER PRESET VIEW ESC VIDEO AUDIO

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 CONFIG

Ceiling Mounted
1 3

Ceiling Mounted
OUTPUTS 2 4
POWER

Desktop
Room 1 Room 2
Screen Control Video Projector Extron Rack
Wall Mounted Ceiling Mounted TLP Pro 1025M
XTP CROSSPOINT 3200
Desktop
Room 2 Room 3
XTP SERIES DIGITAL MATRIX SWITCHER

Screen Control Video Projector

PC Wall Mounted Ceiling Mounted
Room 3
Screen Control
Wall Mounted
Divisible Room - One Line System Diagram

Ethernet RS-232 Relays and I/O eBUS

www.extron.com 65
Convention Center

Overview — Use Serial over Ethernet drivers and create schedules for system efficiency
Convention Centers typically offer adequate floor space to accommodate several thousand attendees where individuals and groups meet and companies
showcase new and innovative products. AV within these spaces includes a broad variety of sources, displays, and audio reinforcement, with complex switching
and distribution into multiple zones.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron IPCP Pro 350 Control Processor SME 211 - H.264 Streaming Media Encoders SMD 101 - H.264 Streaming Media Decoders

Extron TLP Pro 1025T TouchLink Pro Touchpanel TV Tuner 1080p Displays

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
After reviewing the customer’s requirements, it was
determined that they wish to transmit video from the
central media room of the convention hall to multiple
zones. Also, a camera feed from the entrance is
available for transmission. The customer would like to
be able to schedule all of the displays in the various
zones to turn on and off at various times.

1. D
 esign the user interface for the touchpanel using
GUI Designer.

2. C
 onfigure the system using GC Pro.

Key Configuration Concepts

1. S
 erial over Ethernet control – Control of the Serial over Ethernet feature of GC Pro
displays will be accomplished using the Serial over
Ethernet feature of GC Pro. The Ethernet control
port in GC Pro will be switched to Serial over
Ethernet mode and then the serial display driver
will be assigned to it. This will allow the control
processor to send and receive control commands
over the Ethernet which will be converted to serial
commands by the SMD 101.

 chedule – A welcome screen will be shown on

2. S
all of the displays from 8 AM to 9 AM on every
weekday.

Schedule for initialization - for automatic input switching at the desired times and days
of the week.

­66 Control Systems Design Guide

 Entrance

MODEL 80
Zone I Zone J Zone A MODEL 80

FLAT PANEL FLAT PANEL

HDMI Audio RS-232 HDMI Audio RS-232

Control over Control over
Ethernet Ethernet
SMD 101 SMD 101
POWER POWER
OUTPUTS

OUTPUTS
12V AUDIO 12V AUDIO
1.0A MAX L R IR IN RS-232 RESET 1.0A MAX L R IR IN RS-232 RESET

HDMI S G Tx Rx G
LAN HDMI S G Tx Rx G
LAN

Extron Extron
SMD 101 Ethernet SMD 101 Ethernet
Streaming Media Streaming Media
Decoder Decoder

TCP/IP TCP/IP
Entrance
Camera

HDMI
Extron
Zone H SME 211 Zone B
Streaming Media
Encoder
100-240V 0.7A
SME 211

INPUTS OUTPUT REMOTE

AUDIO RS-232
MODEL 80
USB L LINE R RESET
MODEL 80

50-60 Hz
HDMI HDMI Tx Rx G
LAN

RS-232

Ethernet Ethernet

WiFi 1 2 3 4

FLAT PANEL
TCP/IP
FLAT PANEL

HDMI Audio RS-232 Network HDMI Audio RS-232

Control over Shares AV Control over
Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet
POWER
SMD 101 Media Files PC SMD 101
OUTPUTS

12V POWER
AUDIO

OUTPUTS
1.0A MAX L R IR IN RS-232 RESET 12V AUDIO
1.0A MAX L R IR IN RS-232 RESET
100-240V 0.7A
SME 211
HDMI S G Tx Rx G
LAN HDMI S G Tx Rx G
LAN
INPUTS OUTPUT REMOTE

Extron Extron
AUDIO RS-232
USB L LINE R RESET

HDMI 50-60 Hz
HDMI HDMI Tx Rx G
LAN

SMD 101 Ethernet SMD 101 Ethernet

Streaming Media Streaming Media
Decoder Decoder
RS-232
TCP/IP TCP/IP
100-240V 0.7A
SME 211

Zone K
INPUTS OUTPUT REMOTE

AUDIO RS-232
USB L LINE R RESET

50-60 Hz
HDMI HDMI Tx Rx G
LAN

Central Media
Zone G TV Tuner
PUSH

POWER GUIDE MENU

HDMI
RES 480 480p 720p 1080i 1080p DIRECTV HD
PUSH
Studio Zone C
SELECT
DIRECTV

MODEL 80 RS-232 MODEL 80

IR
Extron
TLP Pro 1025T
COM 1 COM 2 COM 3 DIGITAL I/O
IPCP PRO 350
10" Tabletop
TouchLink Pro
Tx Rx G RTS CTS Tx Rx G Tx Rx G 1 2 3 4 G
POWER LAN
1 2 3

Extron
12V IR/SERIAL RELAYS eBUS
x.xA MAX 1 2 1 2 C 3 4 C +V +S - S G

Touchpanel
S G S G PWR OUT = 6W

IPCP Pro 350

FLAT PANEL FLAT PANEL

HDMI Audio RS-232 IP Link Pro Control Processor HDMI Audio RS-232
Control over Control over
Ethernet RS-232 Ethernet
Control
MODEL 80

SMD 101 SMD 101

POWER POWER

over
OUTPUTS
OUTPUTS

12V 12V AUDIO

AUDIO RESET 1.0A MAX IR IN RS-232 RESET
1.0A MAX L R IR IN RS-232 L R

HDMI

Ethernet
HDMI S G Tx Rx G
LAN S G Tx Rx G
LAN

Extron Extron
Audio
SMD 101 Ethernet SMD 101 Ethernet
Streaming Media HDMI Streaming Media
Decoder SMD 101
Decoder
POWER
OUTPUTS

12V AUDIO
MAX L R IR IN RS-232 RESET

TCP/IP
HDMI S G Tx Rx G
LAN

Extron TCP/IP
FLAT PANEL

SMD 101
Streaming Media
Decoder

Zone F
MODEL 80
Zone E Zone D
MODEL 80 MODEL 80

FLAT PANEL
FLAT PANEL FLAT PANEL

HDMI Audio RS-232 HDMI Audio RS-232 HDMI Audio RS-232

Control over Control over Control over
Ethernet Ethernet Ethernet
SMD 101
POWER SMD 101 SMD 101
OUTPUTS

12V AUDIO POWER POWER

OUTPUTS

OUTPUTS

1.0A MAX L R IR IN RS-232 RESET 12V 12V

AUDIO RESET AUDIO RESET
1.0A MAX L R IR IN RS-232 1.0A MAX L R IR IN RS-232

HDMI S G Tx Rx G
LAN HDMI S G Tx Rx G
LAN HDMI S G Tx Rx G
LAN

Extron Extron Extron

SMD 101 Ethernet SMD 101 Ethernet SMD 101 Ethernet
Streaming Media Streaming Media Streaming Media
Decoder Decoder Decoder

TCP/IP TCP/IP TCP/IP

www.extron.com 67
Building Management System

Overview — Centralize monitoring and control of a building’s mechanical and electrical systems

A Building Management System - BMS is a computer based system that allows for centralized monitoring and control of mechanical and electrical systems within
a building, including HVAC - Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning, lighting, power, and closed-circuit TV systems. When properly configured, a BMS will allow
a significant reduction in building power consumption.

In the application diagram shown we are interfacing with both the building lighting and HVAC systems through a BMS gateway. An Extron Pro Series Control
System is able to connect, monitor, and control devices that are connected to a BMS using the building’s standard network infrastructure.

Materials Materials Materials

Extron TLP Pro 1025M TouchLink Pro Touchpanels Extron IPCP Pro 350DR Control Processor BMS Gateway

Extron PS 18DR Din Rail Adapter for Extron Power

Supplies

System Design Solution

Operational Requirements
After reviewing the customer’s requirements, determine what
devices the AV control system needs to access as part of the
BMS strategy. In the system shown in this application diagram
the end user would like to adjust both the lighting and the
HVAC system from the touchpanel. You will need to work with
the BMS system administrator to expose the desired points of
control before configuring the system
in GCP.

1. Design the user interface using GUI Designer.

2. C
 onfigure the system using Global Configurator and select a
driver specifically designed to communicate with a Gateway. For
example: In a Tridium NiagaraAX System this driver is a JACE® -
Figure 1: Configured Actions window for incrementing the Temperature in this system
Java Application Control Engine.

Figure 2: Communication settings for the BMS driver

Key Configuration Concepts

1. The Extron BMS driver, in its simplest form, allows room temperature adjustment.

Figure 1: T
 he Configured Actions window for Incrementing the Temperature in this system. Note: The Instance Number is provided by the BMS
programmer.
Figure 2: T
 he communication settings for the BMS driver. Note: We are using the Aliasing feature of Global Configurator for naming the control
commands within the driver.

­68 Control Systems Design Guide

 Laptop
Required for
Ethernet Ethernet
Setup of Gateway
BMS
Gateway

Ethernet

Extron
TLP Pro 1025M Ethernet
10" Wall Mount TCP/IP
TouchLink Pro Network BACnet/LAN
Touchpanel

Extron Ethernet Ethernet

IPCP Pro 350DR
IP Link Pro Control Extron
Processor
Tx Rx G RTS CTS

COM 1
Tx Rx G

COM 2
Tx Rx G

COM 3
1 2 3

DIGITAL I/O
4 G +V +S -S G
PWR OUT = 6W
eBUS PS 18DR
IPCP PRO 350DR
DIN Rail
Adapter for
Extron Power
Lighting HVAC
POWER
RELAYS IR/SERIAL 12V
1 2 1A MAX
LAN

Supplies
1 2 C 3 4 C S G S G Extron

Ethernet

Lighting Example

Overhead
Lighting

Overhead
Lighting

Motion
I/O
PLANE

7
SELECT

8
9 10
11

12
12

13
13

14
14

15

15
15

16

16
CONFIG
O
P
CONTROL
VIEW

MAIN
ENTERPRESET

W I/O
E
R
CARDS
ESC

SMX
SERIES

Control
SWITCHER

IPL
500

Processor
100
Detector
6 11 14 E-BUS
LIMIT
LINK
IR
ACT
5 INPUTS
9 10
13 I/OACT
FLEX2
4 12 1

8 4 OVER

3 11 3
RELAY
2 4
7 1 3
2 10 4 8

1 6 9 IR/S3
RTS 1 2 5
6
7

8
DVI

0 5 304 CTS 7
8

7
COM TX
4 DVSSCALER 6
RX 5
RGB
6
OUTPUTS
3 ANDADJUST 7
8

2 5 6
VIDEO 5
TX 4
1 4 IR
L2IMIT RX 2 3
12VDC
SWITCHED
1 1
3 4OVER
2 R 3

1
NEXT
MENU 1002
XPA
4

2
1 LIMITER/PROTECT
SIGNAL
TEMP
OVER

HSA
402

125
- 50/60
Hz
5A

PHONE AUDIO
IN
DATA
COMPUTER
IN

MTP
T 15HD
A
125
- 50/60
Hz
5A

DATA

PHONE

HVAC Example
HSA
402

125
- 50/60
Hz
5A

PHONE AUDIO
IN
DATA
COMPUTER
IN

MTP
T 15HD
A
125
- 50/60
Hz
5A

DATA

PHONE

H
AS
204

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EN

VCR
ONPC
DVD
OFF
DOC
CAM
UP
LAPTOP
MUTE
DOWN
DISPLAY
SCREEN

24 Volt
Transformer
Room 2
Damper
1 o ne
e tr o

r
o n Z

lle
Z Co C

Z am e 1
A

am e r
V

D on pe
2 D on
H

2
Z

er
n

p
e
n
o
Z

r
ate
He A/C Room 2
Vent

Room 1
Damper

Room 1
Vent 72
Room 2
Thermostat

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204

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A P
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AD
AT

O HP
EN

VCR

DVD

DOC
CAM

LAPTOP

PC

ON

OFF

DISPLAY
MUTE

SCREEN
UP

SCREEN
DOWN

72 Room 1
Thermostat

H
AS
204

21
-5
/05
06
zH
A5

A
DU HP
OI EN
O
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AD
AT
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UIP
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1T
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AD
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A5

AD
AT
P
OH
EN

VCR

DVD

DOC
CAM

LAPTOP

PC

ON

OFF

DISPLAY
MUTE

SCREEN
UP

SCREEN
DOWN

www.extron.com 69
 Control Systems Training and Certification

Extron Control Systems Certification Programs

Establish Your Knowledge of Extron Control Systems
Extron offers three control systems certification programs designed to prepare individuals to successfully deploy and maintain customized
AV control systems that are built around our IP Link® Pro Series, TouchLink® Pro Series, and eBUS® products.

Certification Comparison

Extron Control Specialist - ECS Extron Control Professional - ECP Extron Authorized Programmer - EAP
Extend Your Ability to Customize Unleash the Power of Global Learn Global Scripter and
and Manage Extron Pro Configurator Professional for Advanced ControlScript to Design Powerful,
Series Systems Extron Pro Series Control Systems Programmable Control Systems
Course Content Course Content Course Content
ECS is a two-day course that consists of the ECP is a three-day course that consists of: EAP is a four-day course that consists of:
following general categories: • Learn Global Configurator Professional • Use Global Scripter software and
• Learn Global Configurator Plus, and use software and the advanced ControlScript, the Extron Python library
its powerful capabilities to configure and features used in complex system designs for AV professionals, to program Extron
manage Extron Pro Series control systems Pro Series Control Systems
• Sophisticated control system design
• Control system design concepts
concepts and advanced configuration • Apply best practices and troubleshooting
• C onfigure a wide range of room control techniques techniques to ensure optimum system
functions using Global Configurator Plus
• Create custom control interfaces using GUI performance
• C reate custom control interfaces using GUI
Designer software, plus GUI design best Designer software, plus GUI design best • Utilize methodologies for implementing
practices practices and developing reusable modules for
• Validate Pro Series control systems in • Validate complex Pro Series control control system programs
multiple AV environments using acquired systems in multiple AV environments
knowledge of installation, configuration, and using acquired knowledge of installation,
commissioning principles configuration, and commissioning principles

Learn More

To find out more about the Extron Control Systems Certification programs, contact your
Extron S3 Customer Support Representative.
­70 Control Systems Design Guide
AV Control Glossary

Throughout this Guide you’ll find language that may be specific to AV control. This lexicon of words, phrases, acronyms, and abbreviations
appropriate to control technologies, system design and integration, and the products themselves, is defined in the following Glossary.

10/100Base-T Bridge
The Ethernet protocol that uses Unshielded Twisted Pair cable - UTP A device that connects two network segments together, which may
– Cat 5, etc. cable, in which the amount of data transmitted between be similar or dissimilar, such as Ethernet and Token Ring. A bridge is
two points in a given amount of time is equal to either 10 Mbps or inserted in the network to keep traffic contained within the segments
100 Mbps. to improve performance.

1000BaseT / Gigabit Ethernet

An Ethernet standard that transmits at 1 Gbps over twisted pair wire.
C
Use of Gigabit Ethernet is becoming commonplace and will eventually
CA
be used as frequently as 100BaseT connections.
Certificate Authority; an entity that issues digital certificates

A CAT 5
Category 5. Describes the network cabling standard that consists
ASCII of four unshielded twisted pairs of copper wire terminated by
American Standard Code for Information Interchange. The standard RJ-45 connectors. CAT 5 cabling supports data rates up to 100
code consisting of 7-bit coded characters (8 bits including parity Mbps. CAT 5 is based on the EIA/TIA 568 Commercial Building
check) used to exchange information between data processing Telecommunications Wiring Standard.
systems, data communication systems, and associated equipment.
The ASCII set contains control characters and graphic characters. CAT 5e
Enhanced Category 5. The standard for the next higher grade of
Asynchronous unshielded twisted pair - UTP beyond Category 5. The CAT 5e
Intermittent, not synchronized or continuous. A conversational type of specification was developed to provide more robust support for
communication that allows the parties at each end to talk when they 1000Base-T. CAT 5e specifies tighter limits than CAT 5 for NEXT,
like instead of at a prescribed time. ELFEXT, and return loss.

ARP - Address Resolution Protocol CAT 6

A telecommunication protocol used for resolution of network layer Category 6. The standard for the next higher grade of unshielded
addresses into link layer addresses. twisted pair - UTP cabling beyond CAT 5e. The standard defines
components - cable and connecting hardware, and cabling - basic
link and channel, for Category 6 channels, as well as Level III field
B tester requirements.
Baud Rate
CAT 7
Named for J. M. E. Baudot, the inventor of the Baudot telegraph
Category 7. The cable standard for 10 Gigabit Ethernet using shielded
code. The number of electrical oscillations per second, called baud
twisted pair – STP cable. Cat 7 features strict guidelines for crosstalk
rate. Related to, but not the same as, transfer rate in bits per second
and system noise, requiring shielding for each pair of wires and the
(bps). RS-232 rates range from 300 bits per second (bps) to 115200
cable as a whole.
bps.
Contact Closure
Bidirectional
The momentary connection of two conductors to complete an
The ability to move, transfer or transmit in both directions. When
electrical circuit. Often used to switch inputs on switchers.
signals can pass in either direction through the same port or by the
same path. RS-232 communications are bidirectional because the
Control Processor
devices at either end can transmit and receive.
The central device in a control system that runs the program or
configuration file and tells the control ports how to interface to the
Binary
devices being controlled by the control system.
A numbering system using base-2. Each digit is represented by a 1 or
a 0 (on or off).
D
Binary Code
A coding system using the digits 0 and 1 to represent a letter, D Connector
numeral, or other character in a computer. For example: the character A connector with rounded corners and angled ends, taking on the
“A” in ASCII code becomes 0100 0001 in binary. shape of the letter D. Commonly used in computers and video, most
D connectors have two rows of pins. If they have more than two
rows, they are usually called HD - High Density connectors.

www.extron.com 71
AV Control Glossary

Data Bits
The number of bits used to represent one character of data. Data bits
F
can either be 7 or 8, but most devices use 8.
FIPS
Federal Information Processing Standards - FIPS are computer
Data Parsing
system standardizations developed by the US Federal Government
The process of receiving data, indentifying individual messages,
for all non-military agencies and government contractors.
decoding their meaning, and converting that information to a useful
form.
Firmware
Fixed, typically small, program that internally controls electronic
DC
devices. Firmware is responsible for telling the hardware how to
Direct Current. The flow of electrons in one direction.
respond to higher level programs, software.
DHCP
Full Duplex
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol. A standardized client-server IP
The ability of a device or line to transmit data simultaneously in both
networking protocol that enables network administrators to centrally
directions.
and automatically manage the assignment of IP addresses in an
organization’s network.
G
DIN Connector
An acronym for Deutsche Industrie Norm. A round connector with Gnd
notches, or keys, for alignment. They exist in several sizes: 4 pins, 5 Ground. The ground is the common return path for electrical signals.
pins, 8 pins, etc. A convenient way of combining all of the signal lines In serial data cables the ground pin on one end of the cable is tied to
in one connector, 4-pin DIN connectors are often used for S-video. the ground pin on the other end of the cable.

Dsub-9 or DB-9 GUI

D-Subminiature - 9 pin. The most common connector used for RS- Graphical User Interface. GUIs are seen in computer applications,
232 communications. D is the general shape of the connector. web sites and touchpanel interfaces.

DTR/DSR
Two conductors used in Hardware Handshaking. DTR stands for
H
“Data Terminal Ready” and DSR stands for “Data Set Ready”.
DTR and DSR were typically used for communications between a Half Duplex
computer’s serial port and an external modem. If a device uses DTR Data or audio transmission that can occur in two directions over a
and DSR, these pins can typically be shorted together. single line, but only one direction at a time.

Duplex Hardware Handshaking

Data transmission in both directions. Half duplex denotes Serial Data Flow Control that relies on electrical signals transmitted
transmission in one direction at a time, while full duplex refers to over the RTS and CTS conductors in an RS-232 connection.
simultaneous transmission in both directions. In fiber optics, duplex
also refers to a type of cable comprising two fibers for duplex Hash
transmission. Typically part of storing passwords securely instead of in plaintext.

Dynamic IP Address HTML

An IP address that is automatically assigned to a client host in a TCP/ Hypertext Markup Language. A formatting computer language used
IP network, typically by a DHCP server. Network devices that serve to create Web pages.
multiple users, such as servers and printers, are usually assigned
static - unchanging IP addresses. HTTP
HyperText Transfer Protocol. A Web protocol based on TCP/IP that is
used to retrieve hypertext objects from remote Web pages.
E
HTTPS
Ethernet Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure; communications protocol
A Local Area Network - LAN standard officially known as IEEE 802.3. for secure communication over a computer network with wide
Ethernet and other LAN technologies are used for interconnecting deployment on the Internet to prevent wiretapping and man-in-the-
computers, printers, workstations, terminals, servers, etc. within middle attacks.
the same building or campus. Ethernet operates over twisted pair
and over coaxial cable at speeds starting at 10 Mbps. For LAN
interconnectivity, Ethernet is a physical link and data link protocol
reflecting the two lowest layers of the OSI Reference Model.

­72 Control Systems Design Guide

Hub IPv4
A shared transmission media to which devices on a network are Internet Protocol version 4. The current version of the Internet
interfaced. Ethernet hubs have mostly given way to Ethernet Protocol, which is the fundamental protocol on which the Internet is
switches. based. It is a connectionless protocol for use on packet-switched Link
Layer networks, e.g., Ethernet. It operates on a best effort delivery
model, in that it does not guarantee delivery, nor does it assure proper
I sequencing, or avoid duplicate delivery.

I/O IPv6
Input/Output. Refers to the flow of information or signals (in or out) Internet Protocol version 6. This new Internet Protocol is designed
with respect to a particular device. to replace and enhance the present protocol which is called TCP/
IP, or officially IPv4. IPv6 has 128-bit addressing, auto configuration,
IEEE and new security features and supports real-time communications
Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers. The IEEE is an and multicasting. The primary equipment to apply IPv6 to is routing
industry organization that undertakes the development of standards equipment, not source equipment.
for electronic interfaces, wireless and wired networks, and related
technologies. www.ieee.org. IR Learning
The ability of a device to receive and store infrared commands for
IEEE 802.11 other devices, such as the projector. Each command is assigned to
The Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers standard for a system operation (such as selecting an input). When an operation
wireless Ethernet networks. IEEE 802.11 applies to wireless LANs is executed, the associated (learned) command is then transmitted
and provides 1 or 2 Mbps transmission in the 2.4 GHz band using through an IR emitter or broadcaster to the projector, where it is
either frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) or direct sequence executed. For example, if input #3 is S-video, selecting that input also
spread spectrum - DSSS. sends a signal to the projector to switch to S-video mode.

IEEE 802.3 IT
The Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers standard for Information Technology. IT departments are typically responsible
Ethernet networks. for the installation, operations, and maintenance of the computers,
servers, and networks in corporations, government agencies, and
Infrared Control educational institutions.
A wireless medium of remote control, which sends signals to a
device via pulses, transmitted in the infrared light spectrum. Its use is
restricted to equipment within line-of-sight or reflections off a wall or J
ceiling. This is sometimes called IR remote.
JITC
IP Joint Interoperability Test Command - JITC is a US military
Internet Protocol. Internet Protocol defines addressing methods and organization that tests technology pertaining to branches of the
structures for datagram encapsulation allowing delivery of packets armed services and government.
from a source to a destination based purely on addressing.
L
IP Address
A unique, 32-bit binary number (12 digit decimal number—xxx. LAN
xxx.xxx.xxx) based on version 4 of the Internet Protocol (IPv4) that Local Area Network. Supplies networking capability to a group of
identifies each sender and each receiver of information connected to computers in close proximity to each other such as in an office
a LAN, WAN, or the Internet. IP addresses can be static or dynamic. building, a school, or a home. A LAN is useful for sharing resources
Also see “DHCP” and “Static IP.” like files, printers, games, or other applications. A LAN, in turn, often
connects to other LANs and to the Internet or other WAN.
IP Link®
Extron’s high performance IP integration technology specifically LED
engineered to meet the needs of professional AV environments. Light Emitting Diode. LEDs are typically used to show status on
AV devices.
IP Netmask
A 32-bit binary number - 12 digit decimal number—xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx,
used on subnets (smaller, local networks) to help the router determine M
which network traffic gets routed internally to local computers and
which network traffic goes out on the Internet. MAC Address
Media Access Control. A unique hardware number given to devices
IPsec that connect to the Internet. When your computer or networking
Internet Protocol Security; protocol suite for securing Internet device - router, hub, interface, etc. is connected to the Internet, a
Protocol (IP) communications by authenticating and encrypting each table (see “ARP”) relates the device’s IP address to its corresponding
IP packet of a communication session. physical -MAC address on the LAN. Also see “ARP.”

www.extron.com 73
AV Control Glossary

allows the potentiometer to be used as a variable voltage divider, for

N use in attenuators such as volume controls or tone controls.
Networking
Private Network
Two or more devices communicating with each other and sharing
A communication network owned by one or more firms for their
resources.
exclusive use.
NIC
Protocol
Network Interface Card. A piece of hardware, usually a peripheral
A set of agreed-upon standards that define the format, order, timing,
card, that interfaces a computer to a network.
handshaking, and error checking method for data transfer between
two pieces of equipment.
Node
One specific point or connected location on a network (i.e., a client or
Public Network
print server).
A network established and operated by a telecommunications
provider, for the specific purpose of providing data transmission
P services for the public. The Internet is a public network.

Packet
A block of data that is transmitted over a network in a packetswitched
R
system. A packet is also referred to as a frame or datagram.
Relay
A device that acts like a switch and is controlled by a current. The
Parity (or Parity Checking) relay switch contacts and then controls another circuit to pass a
An error detection technique that tests the integrity of the digital data
signal. Most relays are either solid state or electromagnetic.
being sent. Parity can be set to None, Even, Odd, Mark, or Space.
Remote Control
Phoenix Connector A wired or wireless device for controlling the function of another
Captive screw terminals that provide a plug and socket connection
device at a distance. Also see “Infrared Control.”
and are relatively common in the AV Industry.
RF Control
Pin Out A medium of remote control from which signals are sent to the
An illustration or table that names signals, voltages, etc., that are on
controlled equipment via data pulses modulated on an RF carrier signal.
each pin of a connector or cable.
RJ
PKI Registered Jack. A type of modular jack that is similar to those used
Public Key Infrastructure; an arrangement that binds public keys with
with telephones. Examples: RJ-11 = 4 or 6-wire module, RJ-45 =
respective user identities by means of a Certificate Authority
8-wire module.
PoE RJ-45
Power over Ethernet - PoE is a standard (IEEE 802.3af) that
Registered Jack-45. A connector similar to a telephone connector
provides power to network devices by utilizing the existing Ethernet
that holds up to eight wires, used for connecting Ethernet devices.
connection, thereby eliminating the need for additional, external
power supplies.
Router
A network device that forwards packets from one network to another.
Port Routing is a Layer 3 function. Routers forward packets based on
A connection for an input or output device. Typical ports found
programmed or “learned” routing tables. Each incoming network
on a computer include serial, parallel, SCSI, disk drive, video, and
packet is examined and a decision is made where to forward it. The
keyboard ports.
destination address in the packets determines which port outgoing
packets are directed to. In large-scale enterprise routers, the current
Port Number traffic load, congestion, line costs, and other factors determine which
A preassigned address within a server that provides a direct route line to forward to.
from the application to the Transport layer or from the Transport layer
to the application of a TCP/IP system.
RS-232
An Electronic Industries Association (EIA) serial digital interface
Potentiometer standard specifying the characteristics of the communication path
A variable resistor. Potentiometers typically have three terminals: the between two devices using either DB-9 or DB-25 connectors. This
two end terminals, across which the entire resistance appears, and standard is used for relatively short-range communications and does
a third terminal, the “wiper”, which moves to a different spot on the not specify balanced control lines. RS-232 is a serial control standard
resistor as the shaft is turned. In this manner, the resistance between with a set number of conductors, data rate, word length, and type of
the wiper and one end terminal gets smaller while, at the same time, connector to be used. The standard specifies component connection
the resistance between the wiper and the other end gets larger. This standards with regard to the computer interface. It is also called

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RS-232-C, which is the third version of the RS-232 standard, and is STIG
functionally identical to the CCITT V.24 standard. Security Technical Implementation Guide - STIG is a methodology
used to validate and standardize software and information systems.
RS-422
An EIA serial digital interface standard that specifies the electrical Stop Bits
characteristics of balanced (differential) voltage, digital interface The bit or bits transmitted that signal the end of a character. Typically
circuits. This standard is usable over longer distances than RS-232. set to 1.
This signal governs the asynchronous transmission of computer data
at speeds of up to 920,000 bits per second. STP
Shielded Twisted Pair cable. The cable’s conductors are grouped
RS-485 in pairs and twisted to reduce crosstalk. Foil shielding wrapped
An EIA standard for multipoint communications. It is similar to around one or more of the pairs to further protect the data from
RS-422, but can support several nodes per line because it uses lower electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference -
impedance drivers and receivers and allows for addressing. RFI.

RSA Subnet Mask

A public key cryptosystem used to secure data transmission. Number of bits of the network address used to separate the network
information from the host information in a Class A, Class B, or Class
RTS/CTS C IP address, allowing the creation of subnetworks. In binary notation,
Two conductors in an RS-232 connection. RTS stands for “Request a series of 1s followed by a series of contiguous 0s. The 1s represent
to Send”. CTS stands for “Clear to Send”. RTS and CTS are used in the network number; the 0s represent the host number. Use of masks
communications between the controller and the serial device. can divide networks into subnetworks by extending the network
portion of the address into the host portion. Subnetting increases the
Rx number of subnetworks and reduces the number of hosts.
Receive. The pin or wire in a serial data connection that receives data
sent by the receiving device to source device. Serial cables connect
the Transmit pin on one side of the cable to the Receive pin on the
T
opposite end of the cable.
TCP
Transmission Control Protocol. A method (protocol) used along
S with the Internet Protocol to send data in the form of message units
between computers over the Internet. While IP takes care of handling
Serial Data the actual delivery of the data, TCP takes care of keeping track of the
A way to transfer information by breaking the characters of a word individual units of data (called a packet) that a message is divided into
into bits, which are then transmitted sequentially along a single line. for efficient routing through the Internet.
Compare to parallel, which uses more than one line.
TCP Port
Serial Port Determines what TCP/IP application handles the data being sent
An input/output connection on the computer that allows it to between network nodes. For example, if Computer A sends a request
communicate with other devices in a serial fashion with data bits using Port 80 to Computer B, Computer B would use HTTP to
flowing on a single pair of wires. The serial port is used with RS-232 interpret the data. If Computer A used port 23, Computer B would
protocol. direct the data to a Telnet application.

SIS™ TCP/IP
Simple Instruction Set™. A set of commands developed by Extron Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol. The communication
that allows easy RS-232 control of certain Extron products with a protocol of the Internet. Computers and devices with direct access to
minimal number of characters in the commands and responses. the Internet are provided with a copy of the TCP/IP program to allow
them to send and receive information in an understandable form.
Software
The programs used to instruct a processor and its peripheral TCP/IP Model
equipment to perform prescribed operations. A set of communications protocols used for the Internet and other
similar networks. It is named from two of the most important
SSH protocols in it: the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and the
Secure Shell; cryptographic network protocol for secure data Internet Protocol (IP). The eight functions of the OSI model have been
communications combined into only four layers in the TCP/IP model.

Static IP
An IP address that has been specifically assigned to a device or
system in a network configuration. This type of address requires
manual configuration of the actual network device or system and can
only be changed manually or by enabling DHCP. Also see “DHCP.”

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AV Control Glossary

Telnet UTP
A computer network utility available on most PCs that allows the Unshielded Twisted Pair cable. The cable’s conductors are grouped in
computer system to communicate with one of its remote users or pairs and twisted to reduce crosstalk and interference.
clients. A user who wishes to access a remote system initiates a
Telnet session using the address of the remote client. The user may
be prompted to provide a user name and password if the client is set V
up to require them.
VLAN
Terminal Emulation Virtual LAN. A group of devices on a network with a common set
A computer program that sends keyboard commands directly to of requirements that communicates as if they were attached to the
a serial port and displays any data returned from the serial port. same broadcast domain, regardless of their physical location. A VLAN
Terminal Emulators may only display ASCII characters or may allow is a Layer 3 network function. A group of network devices can be
incoming data to be formatted as hexadecimal (Hex) characters. grouped together into a functionally separate logical network. VLAN
and their network traffic will be segmented from other devices that
TLS may be connected to the same physical system.
Transport Layer Security; cryptographic protocol designed to provide
communication security over the Internet. VPN
Virtual Private Network. A method of providing a private network
Touchpanel connection via a secure communications tunnel over the Internet.
A control panel with a flat surface (usually with graphic divisions VPNs maintain privacy, applying tunneling protocol, encryption, and
or buttons) that functions as a switch or control. Also called a security procedures.
touchscreen.
W
TP
Twisted Pair. Cable that uses small twisted pairs of wires in a common WAN
jacket/sheath to transmit and receive network or telephone signals; Wide Area Network. A computer network that covers a broad area
can be either shielded (STP) or unshielded (UTP). The Extron product such as a link across a metropolitan, regional, or national boundary.
family includes twisted pair transmitters, twisted pair receivers, and
twisted pair cabling. WLAN
Wireless Local Area Network. A form of local area network that uses
Tx radio waves to transmit data between nodes rather than through
Transmit. The pin or wire in a serial data connection that sends data cable. Mobile devices, such as laptop computers and personal digital
from the source device to the receiving device. Serial cables connect assistants, have helped spawn the “plugless” connection to WLANs.
the Transmit pin on one side of the cable to the Receive pin on the The IEEE 802.11 standard specifies the technologies for wireless
opposite end of the cable. LANs.

U
UDP
User Datagram Protocol. A connectionless protocol providing “best
effort” delivery of packets across networks. UDP is frequently used in
real-time streaming applications were best effort delivery is acceptable
and the network devices and applications manage data flow control
and errors.

Unidirectional
The ability to move, transfer or transmit in one direction. When signals
can pass in only one direction through a port or by a single path. IR/
Serial ports can be configured for one-way RS-232 communications,
the control processor is able to transmit to the receiving device, but
is not able to receive response from the device. Only two conductors
are used: Tx and Gnd.

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Notes

www.extron.com 77
Notes

­78 Control Systems Design Guide

Extron and The History of AV Control
Extron pioneered configurable control for AV systems with simple software based on drag-and-drop commands.
This was during the early days of our IP Link control processors and our easy-to-use and economical MediaLink
controllers, which grew to be the leading choice in classrooms and conference rooms, worldwide. As the
demand grew for more sophisticated control applications, we introduced our Pro Series family, including the
industry’s most powerful configuration software, Global Configurator Professional. Pro Series hardware and
software work together to help AV integrators build intricate control systems in demanding environments
while maintaining the familiar simplicity of Extron user interfaces. During this time, behind the scenes, we were
also developing something that would take AV control even further – programming. Extron control system
programming is based on Python, which is the same, rock-solid platform we have been using all along for
our Pro Series family. Python is an object-oriented language that is inherently clean, easily readable, and
editable. Extron Global Scripter is an integrated development environment that works with our ControlScript
programming library to harness the power of Python and provide a comprehensive and powerful solution for
creating refined and innovative AV systems. Whether it is the convenience of configuration with the industry’s
most powerful configuration-based control system solution, or the unbridled versatility of Extron Control System
Programming, we have made certain that you have the right solution for any AV application.

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 3rd Edition

Control Systems Design Guide

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3rd Edition
CONTROL SYSTEMS
DESIGN GUIDE

© 2019 Extron Electronics. All rights reserved. All trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. 06-2019
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