Don't get too carried away with RS232 unless you are planning on extensive automation that can't be easily handled by IR peripherals. RS 232 isn't a new protocol, it's been around for years. question is....what do you need it for in your situation? You don't need RS232 to control a motorized screen or a projector, or for most functions on a reciever. Of course with a Crestron system, you can achieve a lot of flexibility. But you have to weigh the costs and vulnerabilities fo going that route.