iPort EX-1 Instruction Manual
General
Why was the iPort developed?
What is the benefit of the iPort?
Who is iPort – I have never heard of that brand name?
Is iPort a licensee of Apple?
How do I buy an iPort product?
Why does it cost more than an iPod?
Does the iPort charge my iPod?
Does the iPort come in different colors?
What iPod models are supported by the iPort IW/FS models?
Which iPort models can be upgraded?
How do I upgrade them?
How do I control the volume?
Why is the sound out my iPort lower in volume then other sources in my system?
Why does my iPod say ‘Ok to disconnect.’ and displays the iPort logo?
Is the iPod protected from any electrical surges like lightning storms?
Does the iPort allow me to share my music with other iPods?
Does the iPort work in international/overseas markets?
Why is there only a 1 year (residential, interior installations) and 6 month (commercial and all
exterior installations) warranty?
How do I get tech support and the files for AMX, Crestron and other 3rd party interface
modules?
What is the purpose of the “Bluetooth/Ethernet” connector port on the backplane board
inside of the iPort IW and the FS Advanced Connection Box?
Install
What are the dimensions of the iPort IW?
What are the cut-out dimensions required for an iPort IW?
Do you need brackets to install the iPort IW?
Is there a fire-rated enclosure (back can) available for the iPort IW?
Will an iPort IW fit into the same hole as previously cut for the original Sonance iPort product?
What are the reasons for having separate audio and video wall plates?
What is the recommended minimum wire gauge (AWG) to be used when connecting a
volume control to speakers playing an iPort IW?
iPort FAQ 1 5/24/06
Frequently Asked Questions
Connect
How does iPort make audio and video connections?
How far can I run the Cat5 for the iPort?
What type of cable may be used to connect the iPort IW to its audio and/or video wall plates?
How far can I run the connecting Cat5 wire before needing to add a supplemental
power supply?
How do I connect the supplemental power supply?
Can I order a supplemental power supply from iPort?
Can the iPort IW interface (synchronize iTunes) with a Mac of PC?
Why isn’t there a component video connection video wall plate?
Can I hook up an iPort to my stereo system directly?
Control
Does the iPort come with a remote control?
Can learning remotes be programmed to operate an iPod with an iPort?
Where can I download the iPod IR remote code file?
What is the difference between the IR functionality of the IW2/FS2 and the IR functionality of
iPort IW3, IW4 and IW5?
What is the interface capability for iPort with AMX and Crestron?
What do the AMX and Crestron interface modules allow the user to do?
What are the changes that occur on the iPod when it is put into the 2-way control mode (IW/
FS-4 and IW/FS-5)?
What is iPod “metadata?”
Does the iPod metadata come out of the iPort from the RJ-45 video connector?
How is the iPod metadata transferred from the iPort to touch screen display devices in a 2-way
system when using an IW-4 or IW-5?
iPort FAQ 2 5/24/06
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the iPort developed?
We feel that the Apple iPod is a product phenomenon that is changing how people organize
and listen to their music. Our specialty is to provide solutions that integrate exceptional audio/
video into the home.
What is the benefit of the iPort?
It provides a convenient, safe dock for the iPod making it easy to use and connects to any
audio or video system without unsightly wires.
Who is iPort – I have never heard of that brand name?
We are a division of Sonance. Sonance was started over 20 years ago by two young men right
out of college – Geoff Spencer and Scott Struthers. They developed the first high-fidelity in-
wall speaker for custom installation into luxury homes. Since then Sonance has grown to be
known as an innovator and leader of the custom installation audio/video industry.
Is iPort a licensee of Apple?
Yes, we are excited that we are partnering with Apple for the iPort and other future products.
We are a ‘Made for iPod’ licensee.
How do I buy an iPort product?
iPort is sold throughout the world via authorized custom audio video installation companies.
Contact iPort or visit www.iportmusic.com for more information.
Why does it cost more than an iPod?
The iPort consists of a combination of electronic circuits designed to send and receive signals
and power over long distances within a home, and 4 protection circuits that protect the iPod
from power surges.
Does the iPort charge my iPod?
Yes.
Does the iPort come in different colors?
Yes, a black faceplate (PN-70020) is available for the IW. The FS is available in both black and
white.
What iPod models are supported by the iPort IW/FS models?
All iPod models with a dock connector are supported by iPort. This includes 3rd Generation
with touch wheel and buttons, 4th Generation with Click Wheel and 5th Generation iPods (iPod
with video and iPod nano). Additionally, to ensure proper operation with the iPod nano, iPort
has developed an insert for the IW that allows the iPod nano to rest firmly in the IW – this will
ship with future iPort IW or can be ordered with PN-70108. A similar adapter ships with all iPort
FS models.
Which iPort models can be upgraded?
IW/FS-2 through IW/FS-4 can be upgraded.
iPort FAQ 3 5/24/06
general
How do I upgrade them?
Customizable expansion cards/kits are available to increase the capability of your iPort.
Options are available for a nominal charge. See your sales representative for details.
How do I control the volume?
It depends on the particular installation. You cannot control the volume from the iPod when it
is placed in an iPort. However any system the iPort is connected to will have a volume control
of some kind. The iPort FS-2 and higher, audio output is selectable as fixed or variable and
volume control can be made from the front of the FS.
Why is the sound out of my iPort lower in volume then other sources in my system?
Check the iPod settings under ‘Sound Check’. If on, this lowers the volume of the iPod by 6dB.
Turning it off should resolve the issue.
Why does my iPod say ‘Ok to disconnect.’ and displays the iPort logo?
The iPort you have is RS-232 enabled and is expecting that a control system is connected. This
limits the iPod control to a touch screen or user interface provided by a control company. If the
iPod needs to be controlled from the iPod itself then remove the RS-232 card from the iPort.
Please see the manual for instruction on how to remove the RS-232 card.
Is the iPod protected from any electrical surges like lightning storms?
Yes, it has over-surge protection built-in.
Does the iPort allow me to share my music with other iPods?
The iPort only allows the music to be played and distributed to multiple rooms. The music
content on the iPod is protected.
Does the iPort work in international/overseas markets?
Yes, we provide all the necessary equipment needed for your region. Please note this only
applies to units sold through authorized dealers in your region. Units purchased from different
regions may not come adapted to work in your region.
Why is there only a 1 year (residential, interior installations) and 6 month (commercial and all exterior
installations) warranty?
We chose a warranty period that is similar to that of other consumer products and we have
found that if there is a manufacturing defect in the product it will typically manifest within the
first year.
How do I get tech support and the files for AMX, Crestron and other 3rd party interface modules?
Technical support can be reached by calling 888-45-iPort (4-7678) or by emailing
downloads (IR commands, etc) please go to http://iportmusic.com/support.html.
iPort FAQ 4 5/24/06
general
What is the purpose of the “Bluetooth/Ethernet” connector port on the backplane board inside of the
iPort IW and the FS Advanced Connection Box?
The Bluetooth/Ethernet connector port is for future upgradeability using either the Bluetooth
standard or the Ethernet standard to expand the ability to control or integrate the iPort into
different systems. These modules are still in development.
iPort FAQ 5 5/24/06
general
What are the dimensions of the iPort IW?
4 3/4" x 6 5/16" x 3 1/2" (121mm x 160mm x 89mm)
What are the cut-out dimensions required for an iPort IW?
4" x 5 9/16" (102mm x 141mm)
Do you need brackets to install the iPort IW?
The iPort IW can be retrofitted right into the wall no extra hardware/brackets are needed. We
do offer a studmount bracket for new construction applications. (PN-70016)
Is there a fire-rated enclosure (back can) available for the iPort IW?
We are currently developing a fire-rated enclosure and expect it to ship later in 2006, it will be
available as PN-70040.
Will an iPort IW fit into the same hole as previously cut for the original Sonance iPort product?
Yes, provided the hole cut for the original model iPort was not cut larger than the template it
came with.
What are the reasons for having separate audio and video wallplates?
This provides an installer an option of mounting the audio wallplate at the same height as an
AC outlet, and the video wallplate up higher behind a display device.
What is the recommended minimum wire gauge (AWG) to be used when connecting a volume control
to speakers playing an iPort IW?
We recommend 20 AWG, 2 conductor, shielded wire such as Sonance PN-91878
iPort FAQ 6 5/24/06
install
How does iPort make audio and video connections?
Each iPort IW is accompanied by an audio wallplate. Connections are made via stereo RCA
jacks. The balanced video wallplate (standard with the IW-5, an optional accessory for all other
models of IW) enables connections via either S-Video or composite video. The Unbalanced
Video Kit connects via composite video connection only.
Each iPort FS is accompanied by either the Basic Connection Box (BCB) or Advanced
Connection Box (ACB). Connections from the BCB are made via line-out 3/4” jack or stereo
RCA jacks for audio and S-Video or composite video for video. Connections from the ACB are
made via Cat5 through wallplates for long distance runs (see below for distances). Connections
at the wallplates are the same as the IW.
How far can I run the Cat5 for the iPort?
The maximum recommended length for balanced audio distribution is 500 feet. The audio
signal is a balanced line level signal so it can travel long distances with out any signal loss or
noise. The maximum recommended length for balanced video distribution is 250 feet. The
maximum lengths for unbalanced distribution is 25 feet for both audio and video signals.
What type of cable may be used to connect the iPort IW to its audio and/or video wall plates?
Cat5, Cat5E or Cat6 can be used to make the connection between the iPort IW and the
associated wallplates - any eight-conductor cable that works with an RJ-45 connector.
How far can I run the connecting Cat5 wire before needing to add a supplemental power supply?
Runs up to 250 feet can be made and then either a supplemental power supply would be
needed at the iPort location or a run of 18 AWG stranded copper 2 conductor cable from the
wallplate to the iPort would be connected to the supplemental power connectors.
How do I connect the supplemental power supply?
Simply run a length of 18/2 speaker wire from the wallplate’s Aux Power 2-pin connector to the
iPort’s Supplemental Power 4-pin connector utilizing the 15V and ground connectors. (4 pin
connector is used for incoming power from the audio wallplate and outgoing power to video
wallplate if using the 18/2 cable)
Can I order a supplemental power supply from iPort?
Yes, PN-70015
Can the iPort IW interface (synchronize iTunes) with a PC or Mac?
No. The IW models do not have USB connectivity. All FS models include a USB cable and
the ability to sync with iTunes.
Why isn’t there a component video connection video wall plate?
The iPod only outputs S-video and composite video.
Can I hook up an iPort to my stereo system directly?
Yes, the iPort can be connected to any stereo just like a CD player, or cassette deck.
iPort FAQ 7 5/24/06
connect
Does the iPort come with a remote control?
The iPort EX-1 Remote Control is available separately in both black (PN-70030) and white
(PN-70032). The EX-1 functions include:
Play/Pause
Next/Previous Track
Volume Up/Down (FS-2 or higher)
Shuffle mode selection
Repeat mode selection
Song/Album/Playlist/Chapter mode selection - enabling next/previous song, album,
playlist and chapter selections.
Ability to navigate the iPod menu system and make selections
iPort LED brightness control
Can learning remotes be programmed to operate an iPod with an iPort?
Beginning with models IW/FS-2, iPods can be controlled via IR. 27 IR codes are available in a
Hex code format.
Where can I download the iPod IR remote code file?
From the iPort website at: http://www.iportmusic.com/support.html. Downloads are free.
What is the difference between the IR functionality of the IW-2/FS-2 and the IR functionality of iPort
IW/FS-3, -4 and -5?
The IW/FS2 only allows IR control through the IR receiver located on the front of the unit. The
IW/FS-3,-4 and -5 allow IR control through both the IR receiver located on the front and
through a second 3.5mm IR input located on the audio wallplate or Advanced Connection
Box. If you have an IW/FS-2 and would like to add the second 3.5mm IR input, this can be
achieved by upgrading to the balanced audio wallplate (PN-70019)
What is the interface capability for iPort with AMX and Crestron?
We have made AMX and Crestron modules available at:
http://www.iportmusic.com/support.html.
What do the AMX and Crestron interface modules allow the user to do?
Select Sort DB Record (Playlist)
Get Num Playing Songs
Set Current Playing Song (09)
Set Repeat (Repeat All)
Get Shuffle
Set Shuffle (Shuffle Albums)
Get Repeat
Play Current Selection
Play Control (PLAY/PAUSE)
Play Control (Next Track)
Get Indexed Playing Song Album Name
Set Play Status Change Notification (Disable All)
Set Play Status Change Notification (Enable All)
iPort FAQ 8 5/24/06
control
Get Index Playing Song Title
Get Indexed Playing Song Artist Name
Get Play Status
Get Current Playing Song Index
Get Numbered Categorized DB Records (Song)
Retrieve Categorized DB Record
Request iPod Name
Reset DB Selection
Select DB Record
Enter Remote UI Mode
Exit Remote UI Mode
Request Remote UI Mode
LED On/Off Docked (OFF)
LED On/Off Docked (ON)
LED On/Off Undocked (OFF)
LED On/Off Undocked (ON)
LED Brightness Docked (DIM)
LED Brightness Docked (MID)
LED Brightness Docked (BRIGHT)
LED Brightness Undocked (DIM)
LED Brightness Undocked (MID)
LED Brightness Undocked (BRIGHT)
Retrieve Firmware for Wall plate
Retrieve Mainboard firmware
What are the changes that occur on the iPod when it is put into the 2-way control mode (IW/FS-4 and
IW/FS-5)?
When controlling an iPod via RS-232 the display will show the iPort logo and will read “OK to
Disconnect” in this mode you will not be able to control the iPod from the iPod click wheel and
will only accept a limited number of IR codes i.e. Play/Pause Next and Previous. All control is
now allowed only through the control system. The video output of the iPod is also turned off
when controlling the iPod via RS-232.
What is iPod “metadata?”
Metadata is information that is viewed on the iPod’s display window. This includes song name,
artist, genre, etc.
Does the iPod metadata come out of the iPort from the RJ-45 video connector?
The metadata is only outputted through the use of the RS-232 port. The video connection only
outputs photo or video content.
How is the iPod metadata transferred from the iPort to touch screen display devices in a 2-way system
when using an IW-4 or IW-5?
Through the RS-232 port on the audio wallplate. This is connected to the serial port of the
control system being used. An IW-4 or FS-4 or higher is needed to utilize this feature.
iPort FAQ 9 5/24/06
control
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8
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