I am cntimplating several recieved and some have RS 232C and some do not. i do not know what all the uses for this port are. could you please help. If it helps, I am planning a HTPC, Projecor, X10 automation (probably HAI Omni II controller).

Thanks

Mike

Simply, this port accepts control commands and lets the component talk back to the control system. Every protocol is different, so you'll need to set the unit up & test it first, unless you have a trusted macro already written.

Of course, your control system must be able to use this port. If you're fed up with the 1-way limitations of IR, this port will thrill you.

Doug @ HomeWorks

Using RS232 is the only way to get bullet proof results from your macro commands and is ideal for all jobs and required for larger full blown projects. When you use the RS232 option and a macronizer you also prevent service calls because someone was impatient with pointing the remote at the IR receiver...Bottom line, RS232 is invaluable, to integrators, but at times a pain in the ass due to different pin outs and a lack of industry standards.

Rs232 is great for sending comands to touchpanels letting you know the status of what you are doing. Macronizers are a cheap trick that will allow you to send out one command to the macronizer and then the macronizer sends out the entire list of commands. The Xantech MAC1 is great and so is the RTI RP-6. RS232 is going to require an extensive knowledge of ASCII and the ins and outs of Audio and VIdeo signal path.

Mike

the DB-9 connection is a Standard. Some manufacturers just tend to Ignore the standard for some reason. The Protocal is what can suck. Not only do you need a Grasp of Ascii, but Decimal and Hex comes into play on a lot of devices as well.

Some manufactures claim the RS-232 port can also be used for "Future Upgrades" The only one I've seen utilize this is Integra on their ole 9.1

RS-232 is invaluable when teamed with a Crestron or AMX system, but with anything else, its better, but not always "Bulletproof" as there is no feedback getting back to the remote control/Control system. Feedback is what makes RS-232 so solid. When you can actually see on your touchscreen where the VOlume level is at and what input you are on can save lots of headaches.