Crestron MC2E User manual

Crestron MC2E
2-Series Compact Control System
with Ethernet
Operations Guide

This document was prepared and written by the Technical Documentation department at:
Crestron Electronics, Inc.
15 Volvo Drive
Rockleigh, NJ 07647
1-888-CRESTRON
All brand names, product names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
©2007 Crestron Electronics, Inc.

Crestron MC2E 2-Series Compact Control System
Contents
2-Series Compact Control System with Ethernet: MC2E 1
Introduction ...............................................................................................................................1
Features and Functions................................................................................................1
Specifications ..............................................................................................................3
Physical Description....................................................................................................4
Industry Compliance ...................................................................................................8
Setup ..........................................................................................................................................9
Network Wiring........................................................................................................... 9
Identity Code ...............................................................................................................9
Installation.................................................................................................................10
Hardware Hookup ..................................................................................................... 12
Power Supply ............................................................................................................ 12
Programming Software............................................................................................................13
Earliest Version Software Requirements for the PC .................................................13
Programming with Crestron SystemBuilder..............................................................14
Programming with D3 Pro.........................................................................................14
Programming with SIMPL Windows ........................................................................14
Uploading and Upgrading........................................................................................................ 15
Establishing Communication.....................................................................................15
Programs and Firmware ............................................................................................ 16
Operation .................................................................................................................................17
Problem Solving ......................................................................................................................18
Troubleshooting......................................................................................................... 18
Check Network Wiring..............................................................................................21
Reference Documents................................................................................................22
Further Inquiries ........................................................................................................ 22
Future Updates .......................................................................................................... 22
Software License Agreement................................................................................................... 23
Return and Warranty Policies ..................................................................................................25
Merchandise Returns / Repair Service ...................................................................... 25
CRESTRON Limited Warranty.................................................................................25
Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A Contents •i

Crestron MC2E 2-Series Compact Control System
2-Series Compact Control System
with Ethernet: MC2E
2-Series Compact Control System
with Ethernet: MC2E
IntroductionIntroduction
Features and Functions
• 2-Series engine
• Dual bus architecture
• 32-bit Freescale Coldfire®processor
• 36 MB of Internal Memory*
• Cresnet®port – master/slave selectable
• 10/100 Ethernet with SSL encryption
• Crestron e-Control®2 enabled
• RoomView®enabled
• Two Com ports (RS-232/422/485)
• Four IR/serial ports
• Four Versiport I/O ports
• Four low-voltage relay ports
• IR wireless compatible using CNXRMIRD (not included)
• Static and dynamic IP addressing
• Built-in web server
• POP3 email server for sending email
• External power supply included
• Single-space EIA rack-mountable
* For more information on internal memory, refer to “2-Series Memory & Directory Structure” in the
latest version of the Crestron 2-Series Control System Reference Guide (Doc. 6256), which is
available from the Crestron website (http://www.crestron.com/manuals).
2-Series Engine
At the heart of the MC2E is the powerful 32-bit Freescale ColdFire®processor.
Crestron's exclusive enhanced real-time operating system makes the MC2E the
fastest, most reliable control system available.
Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A 2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E •1

2-Series Compact Control System Crestron MC2E
Cresnet®
Cresnet is the communications backbone for many Crestron touchpanels, keypads,
lighting controls and other devices. The Cresnet bus is a simple, yet flexible 4-wire
network that provides rock-solid bidirectional communication for numerous Cresnet
devices.
Cresnet Slave Mode
Selectable Cresnet Slave Mode enables the MC2E to be configured as a Cresnet
slave device, effectively transforming it into a Cresnet expansion module. Such
flexibility can offer a cost-effective solution for system expansion, providing a host
of additional control ports in a single module.
Ethernet
Crestron pioneered the IP-based control system to harness the vast possibilities of
Ethernet and the Internet for remote control, monitoring, programming and
diagnostics. The MC2E is designed to deliver the world's most advanced IP control
solution with full-duplex 10/100 Ethernet, built-in Web server and email client and
support for both static and dynamic IP addressing.
Crestron e-Control®2
Crestron's award-winning e-Control 2 XPanel solutions offer the most flexible range
of IP control possibilities available. Using a Windows®computer or CE/PocketPC™
PDA device, e-Control 2 provides an amazing control GUI that looks and behaves
just like a Crestron Isys®touchpanel.
Crestron RoomView®
Every Ethernet-enabled 2-Series control system works directly with Crestron's
exclusive RoomView Help Desk software for the industry's most comprehensive
facility-wide asset management solution.
SNMP
Built-in SNMP support enables network management of Crestron control systems
using third-party SNMP software. As an alternative or supplement to RoomView,
SNMP allows full control and monitoring from the IT Help Desk or NOC in a format
that is familiar to IT personnel.
SSL
All Ethernet-enabled 2-Series control systems support SSL (Secure Sockets Layer),
the industry standard for protecting sensitive network communications.
IR Wireless Option
When equipped with an optional CNXRMIRD IR receiver, the MC2E provides a
low-cost wireless control solution using any of Crestron’s IR wireless touchpanels or
a third-party universal IR remote.
2 •2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A

Crestron MC2E 2-Series Compact Control System
Specifications
Specifications for the MC2E are listed in the following table.
MC2E Specifications
SPECIFICATION DETAILS
Processor
CPU 32-bit Freescale ColdfireMicroprocessor
Memory
SDRAM 32 MB
NVRAM 256 kB
Flash 4 MB
Operating System Real-time preemptive multi-
threaded/multitasking kernel; FAT32 file
system with long names; supports SIMPL™
Windows®and SIMPL+
Ethernet 10/100BaseT, auto-negotiating, full/half
duplex, static IP or DHCP/DNS, SSL,
TCP/IP, UDP/IP, CIP, SMTP, SNMP, built-
in Web server and e-mail client; supports
Crestron e-Control2 Xpanel and
RoomViewapplications
Power Requirements 12 Watts (0.5 Amp) @ 24 Volts DC
(PW-2410RU power supply included)
Available Cresnet Power 13 Watts using PW-2410RU (included) or
38 Watts using PW-2420RU (sold
separately)
Cresnet Power Usage 12 Watts (0.5 Amp @ 24 Volts DC) with no
power supply connected to the 24VDC
connector
Environmental
Temperature 41º to 113ºF (5º to 45ºC)
Humidity 10% to 90% RH (non-condensing)
Enclosure
Chassis Steel, black matte powder coat finish
Faceplate Extruded aluminum, black matte powder
coat finish with polycarbonate label overlay
Mounting Freestanding or 1U 19 inch rack mountable
(adhesive feet and rack ears included)
Dimensions
Height 1.70 in (4.32 cm) without feet;
1.80 in (4.58 cm) with feet
Width 17.03 in (43.25 cm) without ears;
19.00 in (48.26 cm) with ears
Depth 8.50 in (21.59 cm)
Weight 4.3 lbs (2.0 kg)
Included Accessories
PW-2410RU 25 Watt Regulated Universal Power Supply
(Continued on following page)
Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A 2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E •3

2-Series Compact Control System Crestron MC2E
MC2E Specifications (Continued)
SPECIFICATION DETAILS
Available Accessories
PW-2420RU 50 Watt Regulated Universal Power Supply
C2N-HBLOCK Cresnet Network Distribution Block
CNSP-XX Custom Serial Interface Cable
IRP2 IR Probe
CNXRMIRD IR Receiver
Physical Description
This section provides information on the connections, controls and indicators
available on your MC2E.
MC2E Physical View (Front)
MC2E Physical View (Rear)
4 •2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A

Crestron MC2E 2-Series Compact Control System
MC2E Overall Dimensions
8.50 in
(21.59 cm)
19.00 in
(48.26 cm)
17.03 in
(43.25 cm)
1.70 in
(4.32 cm)
12345
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
7
6
Connectors, Controls & Indicators
# CONNECTORS1,
CONTROLS & INDICATORS
DESCRIPTION
1 PWR LED
Indicates 24 Volts DC power supplied from Cresnet control network
or external power supply.
2 NET LED Indicates communication with Cresnet System.
3 RESET BUTTONS
HW-R - Initiates system hardware reset.
SR-R - Pressing this in combination with HW-R button performs a
system restart without loading the program. Pressing it alone while
the system is running restarts the program.
4 MSG LED2Illuminates when a message is present in the message log. To view
the contents of the message log, use Crestron Toolbox™.
5 LAN LEDs
LNK – Indicates when there is a connection to the rear panel LAN
port.
ACT – Indicates communication (activity) at the rear panel LAN port.
(Continued on following page)
Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A 2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E •5

2-Series Compact Control System Crestron MC2E
Connectors, Controls & Indicators (Continued)
# CONNECTORS1,
CONTROLS & INDICATORS
DESCRIPTION
6 INFRARED-SERIAL
OUTPUT (A – D)3, 4
A B C D
S G S G S G S G
IR SERIAL OUT
(4) 2-pin 3.5 mm detachable terminal blocks IR/Serial output ports;
IR output up to 1.2 MHz;
1-way serial TTL/RS-232 (0-5 Volts) up to 115.2k baud;
Individual signal generator per port, allowing simultaneous firing of
all ports.
7 IR IN
IR IN
T R S
(1) 3-pin 3.5 mm detachable terminal block;
For connection of the CNXRMIRD IR Receiver (sold separately);
Allows IR wireless control from Crestron or third-party universal
remotes using RC-5 IR commands.
8 I/O (1 – 4)5, 6
I/O
1 2 3 4 G
(1) 5-pin 3.5 mm detachable terminal block comprising (4) digital
input/output or analog input ports (referenced to GND);
Digital Input: Rated for 0-24 Volts DC, input impedance 20 kΩ, logic
threshold 1.24 Volts DC;
Digital Output; 250 mA sync from maximum 24 Volts DC, catch
diodes for use with “real world” loads;
Analog Input: Rated for 0-10 Volts DC, protected to 24 Volts DC
maximum, input impedance 20 kΩ;
Programmable 5 Volts, 2 kΩpull-up resistor per pin.
9 RELAY OUTPUT
(1 – 4)
1 2 3 4
RELAY OUT
(1) 8-pin 3.5 mm detachable terminal block comprising (4) normally
open, isolated relays;
Rated 1 Amp, 30 Volts AC/DC,
MOV arc suppression across contacts.
10 COM (A – B)7, 8, 9
COM B
COM A
(2) DB9 male, bidirectional RS-232/422/485 ports;
Up to 115.2k baud;
Hardware and software handshaking support;
All ports support C2N-NPA8 Network Poll Accelerator10.
PIN DIRECTION DESCRIPTION
1* To MC2E (RXD-) RS-422 Receive Data (Idles low)
2 To MC2E (RXD) RS-232 Received Data
3 From MC2E (TXD) RS-232 Transmitted Data
4 From MC2E (TXD+) RS-422 Transmit Data (Idles high)
5 Common RS-232 and RS-422 Signal Common
6 To MC2E (RXD+) RS-422 Receive Data (Idles high)
7 From MC2E (RTS) RS-232 Request to Send
8 To MC2E (CTS) RS-232 Clear to Send
9 From MC2E (TXD-) RS-422 Transmit Data (Idles low)
* RS-422 transmit and receive are balanced signals requiring two lines plus
a ground in each direction. RXD+ and TXD+ should idle high (going low at
start of data transmission). RXD- and TXD- should idle low (going high at
start of data transmission). If necessary, RXD+/RXD- and TXD+/TXD- may
be swapped to maintain correct signal levels.
(Continued on following page)
6 •2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A

Crestron MC2E 2-Series Compact Control System
Connectors, Controls & Indicators (Continued)
# CONNECTORS1,
CONTROLS & INDICATORS
DESCRIPTION
11 COMPUTER
COMPUTER
Pin 1
Pin 9
(1) DB9 female, RS-232 computer console port.
Connector is used when programming with a PC. The port is
modem compatible (modem and PC cables not included).
Supports baud rate of up to 115 kB. Use with standard DB9 straight
through cable. Pins 1, 4, 6 and 9 are not connected.
PIN # ABBREVIATION DESCRIPTION
2 TXD Transmit Data
3 RXD Receive Data
5 SG Signal Ground
7 CTS Clear To Send
8 RTS Request To Send
12 LAN
GREEN
LED
YELLOW
LED
PIN 8 PIN 1
(1) 8-wire RJ-45 with 2 LED indicators;
10/100BaseT Ethernet port;
Green LED indicates link status
Yellow LED indicates Ethernet activity.
TYPE PIN SIGNALS
1 TD+
2 TD-
3 RD+
4 Connected to pin 5
5 Connected to pin 4
6 RD-
7 Connected to pin 8
8-Position
RJ-45
8 Connected to pin 7
13 NET11, 12
Four-position terminal block connector for data and power.
Connects to Cresnet control network.
Pin 1 (24) Power
Pin 2 (Y) Data
Pin 3 (Z) Data
Pin 4 (G) Ground
Expandable via C2N-NPA8 Network Poll Accelerator10.
14 24 VDC11, 12, 13
(1) 2.1 mm barrel DC power jack, 24 Volt DC power input;
(PW-2410RU power supply included);
Passes through to NET port to power Cresnet devices.
24VDC
1.0A
1. Interface connectors for IR-SERIAL OUT, IR IN, I/O, RELAY OUT and NET ports are provided with the unit.
2. This LED was labeled ERR on units manufactured prior to 2005. It is functionally the same; only the labeling has changed.
3. Transmission levels on the infrared–serial output connectors are in the 0 to +5 VDC range, which may not be compatible with all RS-232 devices.
4. A port can be used for either IR or RS-232 communications but not both.
5. Digital outputs are TTL values and may not work with devices requiring a “dry” contact closure (e.g. low voltage motor controllers).
6. Ports can be used for either input or output but not both.
7. The pinout of each 9-pin port is non-standard; it contains RS-422 pins in addition to RS-232. This may result in a conflict with some equipment
and therefore all nine pins should not be used. Only the required pins for each communication type should be connected. For RS-232 and –422,
pins 2, 3, 5, 7 and 8 are wired straight through.
8. Data Set Ready (DSR) and Data Terminal Ready (DTR) are not supported.
Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A 2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E •7

2-Series Compact Control System Crestron MC2E
9. To support RS-485, tie pin 1 (RXD-) to pin 9 (TXD-)
and pin 4 (TXD+) to pin 6 (RXD+) in the cable.
COM (DB9)
CONNECTOR RS-485 BUS
(Refer to table at right.) Tie Pins 1 & 9 -
Tie Pins 4 & 6 +
Pin 5 G
10. The Cresnet Poll Accelerator effectively increases the network speed, fan-out and device addresses by a factor of 8 for each Poll Accelerator added
to the system.
11. The MC2E can be powered via the 24 VDC jack or the NET port. Be sure to use a Crestron approved power supply as another may cause damage.
12. Use care in wiring installations to avoid applying 24 VDC to Cresnet wiring from an AC power pack as well as from a system device that contains
its own power supply. Although this condition should not cause any damage, Crestron does not recommend it. In those network configurations that
require more power than can be supplied by the primary power supply alone, disconnect the +24 VDC Cresnet wire from those devices that will be
powered by an AC power pack.
13. An optional power pack (PW-2420RU) provides 38 watts to Cresnet devices when connected to the MC2E.
Industry Compliance
As of the date of manufacture, the MC2E has been tested and found to comply with
specifications for CE marking and standards per EMC and Radiocommunications
Compliance Labelling.
NOTE: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy
and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
 Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.
 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
8 •2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A

Crestron MC2E 2-Series Compact Control System
Setup
Network Wiring
When wiring the network, consider the following:
• Use Crestron Certified Wire.
• Use Crestron power supplies for Crestron equipment.
• Provide sufficient power to the system.
CAUTION: Insufficient power can lead to unpredictable results or damage
to the equipment. Please use the Crestron Power Calculator to help calculate
how much power is needed for the system
(http://www.crestron.com/calculators).
• For larger networks, use a Cresnet Hub/Repeater (CNXHUB) to maintain
signal quality.
For more details, refer to “Check Network Wiring” on page 21.
Identity Code
Net ID The Net ID of the MC2E has been factory set to 02. This Net ID is defined as the
“Master” control system. The Net IDs of multiple MC2E devices in the same system
must be unique; this means there will be a master/slave relationship between units
(only the Net ID of the master will be left at 02). Net IDs are changed from a
personal computer (PC) via the Crestron Toolbox™ (refer to “Establishing
Communication” on page 15).
When setting the Net ID, consider the following:
• The Net ID of each unit must match an ID code specified in the SIMPL
Windows program.
• Each network device must have a unique Net ID.
For more details, refer to the Crestron Toolbox help file.
IP ID The IP ID is set within the MC2E’s table using Crestron Toolbox. For information
on setting an IP table, refer to the Crestron Toolbox help file. The IP IDs of multiple
MC2E devices in the same system must be unique.
When setting the IP ID, consider the following:
• The IP ID of each unit must match an IP ID specified in the SIMPL
Windows program.
• Each device using IP to communicate with a control system must have a
unique IP ID.
Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A 2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E •9

2-Series Compact Control System Crestron MC2E
Installation
Ventilation The MC2E should be used in a well-ventilated area. The venting holes should not be
obstructed under any circumstances.
To prevent overheating, do not operate this product in an area that exceeds the
environmental temperature range listed in the table of specifications. Consider using
forced air ventilation and/or incrementing the spacing between units to reduce
overheating. Consideration must be given if installed in a closed or multi-unit rack
assembly since the operating ambient temperature of the rack environment may be
greater than the room ambient temperature. Contact with thermal insulating materials
should be avoided on all sides of the unit.
Rack Mounting The MC2E can be mounted in a rack or stacked with other equipment. Two “ears”
are provided with the MC2E so that the unit can be rack mounted. These ears must
be installed prior to mounting. Complete the following procedure to attach the ears
to the unit. The only tool required is a #2 Phillips screwdriver.
WARNING: To prevent bodily injury when mounting or servicing this unit in a
rack, take special precautions to ensure that the system remains stable. The following
guidelines are provided to ensure your safety:
• When mounting this unit in a partially filled rack, load the rack from the
bottom to the top with the heaviest component at the bottom of the rack.
• If the rack is provided with stabilizing devices, install the stabilizers before
mounting or servicing the unit in the rack.
NOTE: If rack mounting is not required, rubber feet are provided for tabletop
mounting or stacking. Apply the feet near the corner edges on the underside of the
unit.
NOTE: Reliable earthing of rack-mounted equipment should be maintained.
Particular attention should be given to supply connections other than direct
connections to the branch circuit (e.g. use of power strips).
To install the ears:
1. There are screws that secure each side of the MC2E top cover. Using a #2
Phillips screwdriver, remove the three screws closest to the front panel from
one side of the unit. Refer to the diagram following step 3 for a detailed
view.
2. Position a rack ear so that its mounting holes align with the holes vacated
by the screws in step 1.
3. Secure the ear to the unit with three screws from step 1, as shown in the
diagram on the following page.
10 •2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A

Crestron MC2E 2-Series Compact Control System
Ear Attachment for Rack Mounting (this image shows a 1RU device)
USE COVER SCREWS
4. Repeat procedure (steps 1 through 3) to attach the remaining ear to the
opposite side.
Bussing Strip Installation The 2-Series compact control system is supplied with two brass bussing strips to
facilitate commoning (linking) of multiple terminal block connections. The bussing
strips are constructed with four terminal block positions and may be trimmed to size
for various applications or different devices. One strip is supplied for the 8-position
terminal block (four relays).
1. To utilize the bussing strip, determine the number of relays to be commoned
for the equipment being installed. If less than four, the strip can be trimmed
to size with a pair of scissors or wire snips.
2. Loosen the terminal block screws and insert the first leg of the bussing strip
into the first common position of the terminal block. The strip engages the
other common positions automatically.
3. Remove approximately 1/8” of the jacket from the common wire and insert
the conductor into one of the terminal block common positions. Tighten the
terminal block screws to lock the wire and bussing strip into place. Insulate
the strip by folding a piece of ¾” wide vinyl electrical tape (such as Scotch
33+) over the spine and as much of the individual legs as possible. Excess
tape at each end of the strip should be pressed closed, then trimmed to
within approximately 1/16” of the end of the strip.
4. When wiring the remaining conductors, remove approximately 1/8” of the
jacket and insert the wires into the proper terminal block positions. To
prevent the possibility of electrical shorts, it is essential that these
conductors do not touch any uninsulated portion of the bussing strip.
5. Securing a tie wrap around the bussing strip is a useful way to provide
strain relief for the wires connected to the terminal block.
Stacking Four “feet” are provided with the MC2E so that if the unit is not rack mounted, the
rubber feet can provide stability when the unit is placed on a flat surface or stacked.
These feet should be attached prior to the hookup procedure.
Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A 2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E •11

2-Series Compact Control System Crestron MC2E
Hardware Hookup
Make the necessary connections as called out in the illustration that follows this
paragraph. Refer to “Network Wiring” on page 9 before attaching the 4-position
terminal block connector. Apply power after all connections have been made.
When making connections to the MC2E, consider the following:
• Use Crestron power supplies for Crestron equipment.
• The included cable cannot be extended.
Hardware Connections for the MC2E
COM (A - B):
TO ANY RS-232,
-422 OR -485
DEVICE
COMPUTER:
TO SERIAL PORT
ON PC
CRESNET:
TO ANY
CRESNET
NETWORK
DEVICE
INFRARED-
SERIAL OUTPUT
(A - D):
TO IRP2 OR
SERIAL DEVICES
RELAY OUTPUT (1 - 4):
TO CONTROLLABLE
DEVICES
24VDC, 1.0A:
AC POWER
PACK
(24 VDC, 1A)
LAN:
10/100 BASE-T
ETHERNET TO
LAN OR WEB
I/O (1 - 4):
TO CONTROLLABLE
DEVICES
FROM DEVICE OUTPUTS
- CONTACT CLOSURES
- RELAY CLOSURES
IR IN:
FROM
CNXRMIRD
FOR RC-5
CODE
NOTE: The maximum continuous current from equipment under any external load
conditions shall not exceed a current limit that is suitable for the minimum wire
gauge used in interconnecting cables. The ratings on the connecting unit’s supply
input should be considered to prevent overloading the wiring.
Power Supply
The unit can be powered through the NET connector, the included external power
pack (PW-2410RU) or the optional power pack PW-2420RU. With the
PW-2410RU, the MC2E can provide power to peripheral Cresnet devices (via the
NET connector) up to a total of 13 watts. The PW-2420RU allows the MC2E to
provide up to 38 watts to peripheral Cresnet devices (via the NET connector).
If additional power is needed, Crestron recommends the Crestron CNPWS-75 (75
watts) External Power Supply or equivalent.
CAUTION: When using the included power pack PW-2410RU, the MC2E’s NET
connector can supply 13 watts (maximum) to Cresnet devices. Do not connect
devices that will exceed this rating as damage may occur to the power pack. To
power additional devices from the MC2E’s NET connector, use the optional power
pack PW-2420RU that can supply up to 38 Watts from the NET connector to
Cresnet devices.
NOTE: In larger system configurations that require more than the 24 VDC supplied
by Cresnet, disconnect the +24 VDC wire from the MC2E Cresnet connector and
provide the +24 VDC power to the peripheral devices by an alternate source.
12 •2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A

Crestron MC2E 2-Series Compact Control System
Programming Software
Have a question or comment about Crestron software?
Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) can be viewed in the Online Help
section of the Crestron website. To post a question or view questions you have
submitted to Crestron’s True Blue Support, log in at http://support.crestron.com.
First-time users will need to establish a user account.
Earliest Version Software Requirements for the PC
NOTE: Crestron recommends that you use the latest software to take advantage of
the most recently released features. The latest software is available from the Crestron
website.
NOTE: Crestron software and any files on the website are for authorized Crestron
dealers and Crestron Authorized Independent Programmers (CAIP) only. New users
may be required to register to obtain access to certain areas of the site (including the
FTP site).
Crestron has developed an assortment of Windows-based software tools to develop
a Cresnet system. You can create a program to control the MC2E control system
using the Crestron programming tools D3 Pro™ or SIMPL Windows. Customers
whose focus is on lighting systems may prefer to use the D3 Pro software since it is
designed especially for creating lighting and environmental system control
applications. Customers already familiar with SIMPL Windows who are including a
lighting system as part of an overall control system project may prefer to continue
using SIMPL Windows. The following are the minimum recommended software
versions for the PC:
Software
TASK REQUIRED SOFTWARE VERSION
Program control system to
operate MC2E.
SIMPL Windows version 2.04.00 or later
with SIMPL+ Cross Compiler version 1.1 or
later and Library update 219 or later. Also
requires Crestron Database version 15.8.5
or later.
Upload program and firmware. Crestron Toolbox 1.05.02 or later.
Program with simple wizards for
systems using a MC2E
(optional but recommended).
Crestron SystemBuilder™ version 2.0.6 or
later (requires SIMPL Windows,
VisionTools Pro-e, Crestron Database and
Crestron Engraver). Refer to software
release notes or Crestron website for other
required Crestron software packages.
Software for lighting and
environmental controls (optional)
Crestron D3 Pro™ version 2.1.7 or later.
Manage MC2E systems within a
facility (optional)
RoomView®Express.
IR learning software. DEAL for Windows version 3.02 or later.
Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A 2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E •13

2-Series Compact Control System Crestron MC2E
Programming with Crestron SystemBuilder
Crestron SystemBuilder is the easiest method of programming but does not offer as
much flexibility as SIMPL Windows. For additional details, download
SystemBuilder from the Crestron website and examine the extensive help file.
Programming with D3 Pro
Crestron’s D3 Pro lighting software provides all the tools necessary to create a
complete Crestron lighting system for residential applications. The lighting system
includes the control system logic program, touchpanel projects and keypad
programming, documentation and real-time lighting adjustment capabilities.
As with all Crestron software, D3 Pro provides extensive right-click and drag-and-
drop functionality in addition to convenient keyboard shortcuts for frequently used
functions and commands.
Programming is organized into six system Views of the lighting system, each
providing a moveable toolbox of devices such as interfaces, fixtures and control
modules. You can add a device to your system simply by selecting it from one of the
toolboxes and dragging it to a room. The available toolboxes differ depending on the
View but all Views include a "General" toolbox that allows you to add areas and
rooms at any time.
Programming with SIMPL Windows
NOTE: While SIMPL Windows can be used to program the MC2E, it is
recommended to use SystemBuilder for configuring a system.
SIMPL Windows is Crestron’s premier software for programming Crestron control
systems. It is organized into two separate but equally important “Managers”.
Configuration Manager Configuration Manager is the view where programmers “build” a Crestron control
system by selecting hardware from the Device Library.
• To incorporate the MC2E into the system, drag the MC2E from the Control
Systems folder of the Device Library and drop it in the System Views.
Locating the MC2E in the Device Library
Program Manager Program Manager is the view where programmers “program” a Crestron control
system by assigning signals to symbols.
The symbol can be viewed by double clicking on the icon or dragging it into Detail
View. Each signal in the symbol is described in the SIMPL Windows help file (F1).
14 •2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A

Crestron MC2E 2-Series Compact Control System
Uploading and Upgrading
Crestron recommends using the latest programming software and that each device
contains the latest firmware to take advantage of the most recently released features.
However, before attempting to upload or upgrade it is necessary to establish
communication. Once communication has been established, files (for example,
programs or firmware) can be transferred to the control system (and/or device).
Finally, program checks can be performed (such as changing the device ID or
creating an IP table) to ensure proper functioning.
While the next section provides an overview for communication, refer to
“Establishing Communications with the Control System” in the Crestron 2-Series
Control Systems Reference Guide (Doc. 6256) for connection details. If
communications cannot be established, refer to “Troubleshooting Communications”
in the same guide.
Establishing Communication
Use Crestron Toolbox for communicating with the MC2E; refer to the Crestron
Toolbox help file for details. There are two methods of communication.
Direct Serial Communication NOTE: Required for initial setup of Ethernet parameters.
Direct Serial Communication
PC RUNNING
CRESTRON TOOLBOX MC2E
SERIAL VIA CRESTRON
CABLE STCP-502PC
OR EQUIVALENT
• The COMPUTER port on the MC2E connects to the serial port on the PC
via a serial cable (Crestron STCP-502PC or equivalent).
• Use the Address Book in Crestron Toolbox to create an entry using the
expected serial communication protocol (RS-232, auto-detect baud rate, no
parity, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, XON/XOFF disabled, RTS/CTS disabled).
• Display the MC2E’s “System Info” window (click the icon);
communications are confirmed when the device information is displayed.
TCP/IP Communication Ethernet Communication
PC RUNNING
CRESTRON TOOLBOX MC2E
ETHERNET
• Establish serial communication between MC2E and PC.
• Enter the IP address, IP mask and default router of the MC2E via the
Crestron Toolbox (Functions | Ethernet Addressing); otherwise enable
DHCP.
Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A 2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E •15

2-Series Compact Control System Crestron MC2E
• Confirm Ethernet connections between MC2E and PC. If connecting
through a hub or router, use CAT5 straight through cables with 8-pin RJ-45
connectors. Alternatively, use a CAT5 crossover cable to connect the two
LAN ports directly without using a hub or router.
• Use the Address Book in the Crestron Toolbox to create an entry for the
MC2E with the MC2E’s TCP/IP communication parameters.
• Display the “System Info” window (click the icon) and select the
MC2E entry.
• Use the Crestron Toolbox to create the MC2E IP table.
Select Functions | IP Table Setup.⇒
⇒
⇒
Either add, modify, or delete entries in the IP table. The MC2E can
have only one IP table entry.
A defined IP table can be saved to a file or sent to the device.
• When using the MC2E as a “slave”, edit the “master” control system’s IP
table to include an entry for the MC2E. The entry should list the MC2E’s IP
ID (specified on the MC2E’s IP table) and the internal gateway IP address
127.0.0.1.
Programs and Firmware
Program or firmware files may be distributed from programmers to installers or from
Crestron to dealers. Firmware upgrades are available from the Crestron website as
new features are developed after product releases. One has the option to upload
programs via the programming software or to upload and upgrade via the Crestron
Toolbox. For details on uploading and upgrading, refer to the SIMPL Windows help
file or the Crestron Toolbox help file.
SIMPL Windows If a SIMPL Windows program is provided, it can be uploaded to the control system
using SIMPL Windows or Crestron Toolbox.
Firmware
Check the Crestron website to find the latest firmware. (New users may be required
to register to obtain access to certain areas of the site, including the FTP site.)
Upgrade MC2E firmware via Crestron Toolbox.
• Establish communication with the MC2E and display the “System Info”
window.
• Select Functions | Firmware… to upgrade the MC2E firmware.
16 •2-Series Compact Control System: MC2E Operations Guide – DOC. 6142A