I have the following installed: HAI Omni Pro, Infocus ScreenPlay 7200 projector.

Now I am looking for receivers, dvd player and the remote system of course. I am pretty set on the MX-3000. Since I can haven't bought the components yet, I want to hear from you guys on which components are friendly to automation (or MX-3000) and which ones I should avoid?

Are having RS-232 always a good thing? I am thinking about using an ADI Ocelot to convert the IR signals into RS-232, is that a good idea? Thanks!

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.

For any remote system, if you are looking at a receiver look to the Yamaha line. Yamaha does a fantastic job of using discreets to allow control and settings for just about anything. If you are interested in using a preamp, I would suggest staying away from Rotel (if you are using the MX3000), I have had a couple situations where the only solution was to go to either a different company's preamp, or a different remote.

My two cents.

Matt.

Yoyop,

From my perspective the thing RS232 buys is robustness. RS232 is a bi-directional protocol. Not only can you set up the components, you can get status information. Depending on the system this can result in quicker time to the action desired.

RS232 also does away with the issues encountered when setting up macros, and what happens if a user moves the remote during a long macro. It is easy to set up an IR remote for a short IR command, that is then translated into a command that sets up the receiver, dvd, projector, lighting, etc. With an IR remote these sequences can take a second or more. I know my spouse just doesn't understand that when the button is pushed, until the light on the remote goes out... keep pointing it at the equipment. Actually... I can't blame just my spouse, I'll regularly forget this. I think this translation element is one of the strongest cases for RS232.

With the above benefits is the downside. RS232 is more cables to run, and definitely more software involved. I do think the end solution is more robust execpt in cases of quite simple setups, or complex setups with very carefully chosen components.

With the MX3000 I would suggest looking into their RF base station (mrf-250). RF would allow you to keep your equpment out of sight and still be able to control it (propably what bcf1963 was refering to). I don't have experience with much of the HTM line, so I'm not sure if it offers a 232 module to use with the mrf-250 or not.

As for a few receivers that are automation friendly.... Harmon is easy to control and has discretes for everything. For a lower price point the Pioneer Elite has discrete IR codes. Another line I use alot is B&K and they offer great control both through RS232 and via IR. What is your price range? We can make better recommendations if we knew that.

-Pete

I would stay away from RS232 if you are just using a MX3000. These remote control can only send inof, there fore it cannot give you status, whch is the main reason for RS232. As for the Macro Reliability, look at the Xantech Min-Macronizer (MAC1). This device has a flash mem chip that allows you to burn you macro's onto the chip and then active the macro's wiht one command from the MX3000. These devices allow you to send one IR code (From the MX3000 learned from the RC68) to the MAC1, then you can set the remote down. I would suggest this over havingto uise ASCII to program you equipment to do the same thing as IR can do. Also the RS232 cables can be expensize depending on the type of connector that must be used (Or make you own cable). IMO it seems like alot of work unless you have a two remote (AMX, Crestron, ELAN, Xantech, etc). If you need more info on the MAC1 let me know.

Mike

Xantech also has the IRS232, which stores 32 RS232 commands of your definition. 32 Xantech IR commands are used to trigger the RS232 commands.

The IRS232, is also a great piece that will allow you to talk to your components via ASCII. For the same price i like the MAC1.

"Also the RS232 cables can be expensize depending on the type of connector that must be used "

DB9 connectors are not expensive, neither is 3 conductor cable.

Pre-manufactured cables can be expensive. The RS232 cable for DENON avr receiver 2003-2004 is 119.95. If you do not know how to make one then this can be expensive. I do agree with you. I purchased a DB9 Connector and a stereo 1/8" headphone jack and made their 119.95 cable for just a few bucks.

Mike

Diesel, I would be interested to know what sort of problems you have had with Rotel as we sell this range and as of present haven't come across any problems, in fact I prefer it because we can run xantech straight into their i/r in, but I would like to prepared in case issues do arise.
Thanks.