JLCooper Electronics MCS-3800 Assembly instructions

96
Quick Operation Reference
Entering and Exiting Utility Mode
Enter Utility Mode by pressing Shift and Assign.
Utility has three pages, selected with the right-most encoder.
Exit Utility Mode by pressing Assign.
Protect
When On, user cannot enter Assign Mode. Display alerts user
memory is protected when attempting to enter Assign Mode.
Dump
Rotate encoder to initiate MIDI System Exclusive bulk data
dump. The data dump takes about 20 seconds.
SHOWTC
Selects the mode in which incoming time code is displayed in
the 7 -segment LED display. H:M:S:F, H:M:S, or Ft :Frm
Bank Name
Allows you to enter a name for each Bank.
OFFSET (Feet and Frame)
A number entered in hours which is subtracted from the
incoming time code.
Jog
Sets responsiveness of Jog Wheel. Range is 1 to 100.
Shuttle
Sets responsiveness of Shuttle Ring.
Range is 1X, 2X, 4X, 8X, 16X, 32X.
MCS-3000 Series
Media Command Stations
User Reference Manual
Second Edition
MCS-3000X Expander
MCS-3800 Controller
MCS-3400 Controller

2
Important:
Certain audio and video systems have been engineered to
specifically support the MCS-3000 series. The MCS-3000 series
was selected by the manufacturers of those systems to be their
ideal, de facto control station.
Please review the owners manuals and “read me” files that
came with your audio or video system for references to the
JLCooper MCS-3000 series.
MCS-3000 Series Users Manual Second Edition
JLCooper part number for this manual: 932073
© 1998 JLCooper Electronics
142 Arena Street • El Segundo, CA 90245 U.S.A.
MCS-3000, MCS-3800, MCS-3400, MCS-3000X, Media Control Station,
and Media Command Station are trademarks of JLCooper Electronics.
All other brand names are the property of their respective holders.
About this Manual
This manual tends toward a pyramidal structure.
Essential concepts are presented first, followed by instructions with
increasing amounts of detail. This allows the user to read as much as he or
she needs, and then bail out and get back to work.
This manual is also intentionally repetitious.
The same basic concepts about programming and operation tend to be
repeated in every chapter, and sometimes more than once within a chapter
where appropriate.
This re-enforces the concepts, but more importantly lets the user work with
the MCS-3000 series controller with only one page of the manual open at a
time, while minimizing having to hold the manual open to ten different
places at the same time.
95
Quick Operation Reference
Locate Mode
Storing a Locate by Capturing on the Fly.
Simply press Set Locate while time code is coming in.
The Locate Number will automatically increment.
The Locate will automatically be named.
Sending a Locate Command By Two Digit Locate Number
To send a Locate, do not press Locate.
Just type the two digit locate number, and press Enter to send
the Locate command.
(The Locate command is not sent until you press Enter.)
Locating by Direct Address
To send a Locate by specifying a time code, press Locate and
enter the time on the Keypad. Press Enter to send the Locate.
Last function
Press Last to re-send the last locate.
Program Change Mode
Pressing Mode cycles the display through Program Change
(Pch), Bank (ban), or Channel (Chan).
Type a channel number, press Enter to store.
Type a Bank number, press Enter to send it.
Type a Program Change number, press Enter to send it.
Time Code Display
The time code display responds to incoming SMPTE or MTC.
If the incoming Time Code is drop frame, the Drop Frame
indicator ("DF") will be lit.
The Time Code Display also shows the last locate command
sent. The time can also be displayed in Feet and Frames.
This is selected in Utility Mode.
The Display is also used for displaying Program Change and
Bank Change commands.

3
Introduction
The MCS-3000 series of control stations are the most advanced
control products ever from JLCooper Electronics. This family of
products includes the 8 fader MCS-3800 Controller, the 4 fader
MCS-3400 Controller, the MCS-3000X 8 fader Expander, and
the Surround Panner Module.
MCS-3800 and MCS-3400 Media Command Stations are moving
fader control surfaces, expandable to sixty-four faders.
Capable of controlling digital workstations for music and video
production and post production, the MCS-3000 series is fully
assignable and simple to operate.
MIDI I/O is standard. In addition, the MCS-3400 and MCS-3800
feature two expansion slots for optional cards which support
other hardware interfaces and protocols. These include RS-232,
RS-422, RS-485, P2 (9 Pin), ADB, and GPI.
This manual deals primarily with the MCS-3400 and MCS-3800
Controllers, and the MCS-3000X Expander, with standard MIDI
I/O. The Surround Panner, and Option Cards are discussed in
their own manuals.
Sending your product registration card allows us to notify you
of any updates or related products as they become available.
Important : There is a "Quick Operation Reference" found
on the last 7 pages of this manual. This is a brief summary of
the whole manual.
94
Quick Operation Reference
More About Groups
When a master fader is moved down, all member faders reach
minimum at the same time.
GMaster
Turning GMaster on makes that one fader the Grand Master.
Moving this fader moves the other faders.
Data is sent as if all faders in all Banks were being moved.
To use this feauture, make one button (F, M, W, Transport, or
Cursor) into a Grand Master On Off button. This allows one
switch to instantly turn on or off the grand Master function.
Jog Wheel and Shuttle Ring
Jog and Shuttle transmit MIDI Machine Control and MIDI
Controllers (CS-10 protocol), depending on the state of the M
buttons. When an optional 9 Pin card is installed, Jog and
Shuttle can also send 9 Pin commands, for controlling
professional VTRs.
The Speed of the Jog Wheel and the Shuttle Ring can be user-
adjusted in the Utility Mode.
Any button (F, M, W, Transport, Cursor) can be made into a
master "On / Off" control for the Jog / Shuttle mechanism.
Locate Mode versus Program Change Mode
The Keypad has two modes of operation:
Locate Mode and Program Change Mode.
Press Shift and Locate to alternately change from Locate Mode
to Program Change Mode.
In Locate Mode, the LED display shows time code.
In Program Change Mode, the LED display shows either
Program Change (Pch), Bank (ban), or Channel (Chan).

4
Table of Contents
Introduction............................................................. 3
Getting Started ......................................................... 7
This chapter discusses the MCS-3000 Series hardware,
describing the front and rear panel controls, viewing the front
panel in "sections", the displays and connectors, and how to
interconnect it into your system.
Front Panel Displays and Controls............................7
Rear Panel ................................................................11
Expander Connection..............................................13
Hardware ...........................................................14
Electrical.............................................................15
Set ID with DIP Switch ......................................16
System Connections ................................................18
Power .................................................................18
Time Code..........................................................18
MIDI I/O ............................................................19
Card Slots ...........................................................19
OMS and FreeMIDI Definitions...............................20
Basic Operation ..................................................... 21
This chapter discusses some fundamental characteristics of the
MCS-3000 Series, what it does when powered up, operating
modes, and the ever-popular wave demo.
Power Up .................................................................21
Entering and Exiting Assign Mode ..........................21
LCD and Page Buttons.............................................22
Modes of Operation (User and Special)..................22
LED Behavior In Special Mode ...............................24
Manually Exiting Special Mode ...............................25
Wave Demo .............................................................26
93
Quick Operation Reference
If 9 Pin or GPI Cards are Present, M Commands Include:
• 9 Pin 1 (that is, turn 9 Pin card in Slot 1 on or off.)
• 9 Pin 2 (that is, turn 9 Pin card in Slot 2 on or off.)
• GPI 1 (that is, turn GPI card in Slot 1 on or off.)
• GPI 2 (that is, turn GPI card in Slot 2 on or off.)
M Buttons Have Two Uses
The M Buttons can send commands like any other button.
Alternately, they determine which machines will be controlled
by the Transports, Jog / Shuttle, and Locates.
Query
When a switch is set to Query, it will not send a command.
When pressed, it puts the whole unit into Query mode.
In Query mode, no commands are sent, but the LCD will
display all the parameters for the last control activated.
Number
Selects the Controller, Note, or Program Change number.
Channel
Selects MIDI Channel 1 through 16.
Minimum (or Release Velocity)
Minimum controller or note off velocity value.
Maximum (or Velocity)
Maximum controller or note velocity value.
Group
The selected control that you are currently editing can be made
a group member.
By rotating the encoder under the word Group, the LCD
prompts you to select which control will be the group master.

5
The Mixer Section.................................................. 27
This chapter discusses how to assign and use the motorized,
touch sensitive faders, their associated channel switches above
the faders, select buttons and rotary encoders, Page and Bank
buttons.
Attributes of the Mixer Section ................................27
Basic Bank Switching and Encoder Selection...28
Fader Output and Input.....................................29
Touch Sensors....................................................29
Channel Switches...............................................30
Encoders, Select, and Page................................31
Assigning Mixer Controls, and Overview ...............32
To Assign Faders and Touch Sensors .....................33
Editable Parameters of Faders and Touch ..............34
To Assign the Rotary Encoders ...............................36
Editable Parameters of Rotary Encoders .................37
To Assign Mute, Solo, Aux, and Sel ........................38
Editable Parameters of Mute, Solo, Aux, and Sel....39
Mixer Operation Notes ...........................................41
The Transport Section........................................... 47
This chapter discusses how to use the Transport controls, Jog
and Shuttle, the Machine Enable (“M”) buttons, and the Keypad
Locate Mode.
Attributes of Transport Section................................47
M Buttons ...........................................................48
Transports ..........................................................49
Jog Wheel and Shuttle Ring ...............................49
Locates ...............................................................50
Assigning Transport Controls, and Overview.........51
Editable Parameters for Transport and M Buttons..53
Command Types......................................................54
Transport Operation................................................57
Jog / Shuttle Operation............................................59
Jog / Shuttle Speed ..................................................61
Locate Operation .....................................................62
92
Quick Operation Reference
Editable Parameters
Name
Press the Cancel/Clear key in the Keypad to clear the name.
Use the Cursor buttons to the left of the LCD to move the
cursor. Turn the first encoder to dial in the letters and numbers.
The top row of the LCD show the control's real (permanent)
name. The bottom row of the LCD is the user editable name.
Command Types
Any Control can be turned off, so no command is sent.
Faders and Touch Sensors send either Controllers or Notes.
The Channel Buttons above the faders send Controllers, Notes,
or put the unit into Query Mode.
The F, W, M, Cursor, and Transport Buttons can be set to:
• Off (that is, sends no command)
• Note
• Ctrl (Controller)
• P Change (Program Change)
• Query (Puts MCS Controller nto Query Mode.)
• Jog (Turns Jog /Shuttle Wheel On and Off)
• GMaster (Turns Grand Master Fader On and Off)
• Play (MMC and or 9 Pin Play)
• Stop (MMC and or 9 Pin Stop )
• REW (MMC and or 9 Pin Rewind)
• FF (MMC and or 9 Pin Fast Forward)
• REC (MMC and or 9 Pin Record)
• RTZ (MMC and or 9 Pin Return to Zero)
• SLOPLAY (MMC and or 9 Pin 1/2 speed play)
• RV PLAY (MMC and or 9 Pin Reverse Play)
• EJECT (MMC EJECT)
• CHASE (Puts MMC or 9 Pin machine into Chase Mode.)
The M Buttons Command Menu Also Includes
• MMC (that is, turn MMC Commands on or off)
• CS-10 (that is, turn CS-10 Emulation on or off.)

6
The Function Buttons Section .............................. 65
This chapter discusses how to use the assignable
F buttons, W Buttons, the Cursor Buttons and M buttons.
Attributes of Function Buttons ................................65
Assigning Function Buttons, an Overview .............67
To Assign F and M Buttons .....................................68
Editable Parameters of F and M Buttons.................69
F and M Button Command Types ...........................70
To Assign W and Cursor Buttons ............................73
Editable Parameters of W and Cursor Buttons........74
Function Button Operation Notes...........................76
The System Section................................................ 77
This chapter discusses Utility Mode And Keypad Program
Change Mode, the LCD and LED Time Code Display.
Utility Mode .............................................................77
Manually Exiting Special Mode .........................78
Memory Protect..................................................78
Dump .................................................................78
Show TC.............................................................79
Bank Name ........................................................79
Offset (Feet and Frames) ...................................79
Jog and Shuttle Speed........................................80
Program Change Mode............................................81
Time Code Display ..................................................82
Display TC and Locates or Program Changes...82
Show SMPTE, No Frames, Feet : Frame ............82
Technical Information .......................................... 83
Dimensions ..............................................................83
Initialization Procedure ...........................................84
Initialized Settings....................................................84
Warranty ................................................................ 89
Quick Operation Reference (7 Page Summary) .. 90
91
Quick Operation Reference
LCD Displays Encoder Names or Bank Name
If a Page button is lit, the LCD shows the names of the five
"Virtual Encoders". If these names have not edited, they are
"VKNOB1, VKNOB2, VKNOB3, VKNOB4, VKNOB5."
If no Page button is lit, the LCD show the Bank Name.
Bank Switchable Controls
The faders, their touch sensors, the encoders, and the buttons
above the faders, are all Bank switchable.
Shiftable Controls
The F, M, W, Cursor, and Transport Buttons can have an
alternate Shifted assignment.
Encoder Selection
For each channel, there are 8 Pages of 5 encoders.
Prior to turning an encoder knob,
Press 1 of the 4 Bank switches to select the Bank.
Press 1 of the 8 Select buttons at the top of a fader channel.
Press 1 of the 8 Page buttons above the LCD.
You have the equivalent of over 1200 independantly
programmable rotary encoders.
To Assign A Control
1. Press Assign to enter Assign mode. The yellow LED is lit.
2. Select a control for editing.
At that point, the display “holds” the currently selected control.
If you change your mind and wish to edit a different control
instead, press Assign to exit assign mode. Press Assign again to
re-enter Assign mode and select a different control.
3. Use the LCD and rotary encoder knobs to edit the control.
Turn the right-most encoder knob to reveal other parameters.
4. After making the edit, press Enter on the Keypad to store the
changes to memory. Either select another control, or press
Assign to exit Assign Mode.

7
Getting Started
This chapter discusses the MCS-3000 Series hardware,
describing the front and rear panel controls, viewing the front
panel in "sections", the displays and connectors, and how to
interconnect it into your system.
Front Panel Displays and Controls
The illustrations show the MCS-3800, which is operationally the
same as the MCS-3400.
It is helpful when considering the front panel layout to view
the MCS-3800 or MCS-3400 in sections.
Some of the sections “overlap”, there are controls that can be
used for more than one purpose. But viewing the unit in
sections makes it easier to understand.
The displays and controls within the section under discussion
are shown in the following illustrations by "graying out" the
controls that are not part of the section under discussion.
90
Quick Operation Reference
Fader Wave Demo
Hold the UP cursor button while powering up the unit.
Continue to hold it for about 3 seconds, until the demo starts.
Turn the power off to stop the demo.
Memory Initialization
To clear the memory and restore the Factory Preset settings,
hold both the UP and DOWN cursor buttons while powering
up the unit.
Two Basic Modes of Operation
The unit powers up in “User Assignable Mode.”
Some audio and video host systems automatically switch the
unit into “Special Mode.”
When in User Assignable Mode, you chose what command the
controls send.
When in Special Mode, you cannot program the unit.
The host system determines what each control will do and
what appears in the displays.
You then need to rely upon documentation included with the
host system.
Manually Switching Modes
Enter Utility Mode by pressing Shift and Assign.
Above the first encoder is the word MODE.
The encoder is turned to select wither User or Host.
Selecting User returns the unit to User Assignable Mode.
Selecting Host returns the unit to the Special Mode.
This function is only available if the unit has already been
switched into Special Mode by an external host system.
Otherwise, this feature is not available.

8
The Mixer Section
The Mixer Section is comprised of the motorized, touch
sensitive faders, the buttons above the faders, the five rotary
encoders, and the Page and Bank Switches.
The Function Buttons Section
This is comprised of the buttons F1 through F8, Shift,
W1 through W5, M1 through M5, the Cursor Buttons.
89
Warranty
JLCooper Electronics (“JLCooper”) warrants this product to be free of defects in
materials or workmanship for a period of 12 months from the date of purchase.
This warranty is non-transferable and the benefits apply to the original owner. Proof
of purchase in the form of an itemized sales receipt is required
for warranty coverage.
To receive service under this warranty, customers in the United States should
contact the JLCooper factory and talk to a service technician. If necessary, a Return
Authorization number may be issued.
For our customers outside the United States, it is recommended that you first contact
your Dealer or Distributor, since they may offer their own service or support policy.
If local support is not obtainable, please send a FAX to JLCooper’s Service
Department at 310-335-0110, with a detailed description of the service required.
Upon issuance of return authorization, the product should be properly packed and
shipped to Service Department, JLCooper Electronics, 142 Arena St., El Segundo, CA
90245.
Please include the following: copy of the sales receipt, your name and address (no
P.O. Boxes, please), a brief description of the problem, and any other related items
discussed with the service department and considered necessary to evaluate the
product or effect a repair. The return authorization number must be clearly written
on the outside of the package.
JLCooper will, without charge for parts or labor, either repair or replace the
defective part(s). Shipping costs are not covered by this warranty.
JLCooper’s normal repair turn around time at the factory is approximately 15
business days, from receipt of product to shipping. Your actual turn around time
will include return shipping.
Actual turn around time will vary depending upon many factors including the
repeatability of the customer’s reported complaint, the availability of parts required
for repair, the availability of related products needed to evaluate the product if
necessary.
Priority services are available. These should be discussed with the service technician
at the time the return authorization is issued.
This warranty provides only the benefits specified and does not cover defects or
repairs needed as result of acts beyond the control of JLCooper including but not
limited to: abuse, damage by accident/negligence, modification, alteration,
improper use, unauthorized servicing, tampering, or failure to operate in accordance
with the procedures outlined in the owner’s manual; nor for acts of God such as
flooding, lightning, tornadoes, etc.
THE DURATION OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER IMPLIED OR EXPRESS,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY, IS LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THE EXPRESS
WARRANTY HEREIN. JLCOOPER HEREBY EXCLUDES INCIDENTAL AND
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: LOSS OF TIME,
INCONVENIENCE, DELAY IN PERFORMANCE OF THIS WARRANTY, THE LOSS OF
USE OF THE PRODUCT OR COMMERCIAL LOSS, AND FOR BREACH OF ANY
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, APPLICABLE TO THIS
PRODUCT. JLCOOPER SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES OR LOSS
RESULTING FROM THE NEGLIGENT OR INTENTIONAL ACTS OF THE SHIPPER
OR HIS CONTRACT AFFILIATES. THE CUSTOMER SHOULD CONTACT THE
SHIPPER FOR PROPER CLAIMS PROCEDURES IN THE EVENT OF DAMAGE OR
LOSS RESULTING FROM SHIPMENT.

9
The Transport Section
The Transport Section is comprised primarily of the Transport
Controls: Rewind, Fast Forward, Stop, Play and Record, and
also the Jog / Shuttle mechanism.
Other controls that can be considered part of the Transport
Section include the Keypad, since once of its functions is to
send Locate commands.
The M buttons may be used to turn machines on and off, to
determine, for example, which machines will go into Play
when Play is pressed.
The Shift button is included, because the Transport and M
buttons have Shifted functions as well.
For example, Play can start a hard disk recorder, while Shift
Play starts a VTR.
88

10
The System Section
The System Section is comprised of the Cursor Buttons, the
Rotary Encoders, and the Assign Button.
The Shift button is included, because Shift Assign puts the unit
into Utility mode, and Shift Locate changes the function of the
Keypad from Locates to Program Changes.
The LCD is used to primarily to display the names of controls
and their parameters, locates and system settings.
The LED Display is used primarily for displaying time code.
Time code is displayed as SMPTE time (with or without frames)
or Feet and Frames. The right most decimal point lights when
drop frame code is received.
The display also shows Program Change, Bank, and Channel
number when in Program Change mode.
87
Fader MIDI Chan Controller #
Chan 1, Bank 1 14 00, etc.
Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 07
Chan 1, Bank 1 “ 08, etc.
Chan 8, Bank 2 “ 0F
Chan 1, Bank 3 “ 10, etc.
Chan 8, Bank 4 “ 3F
Touch MIDI Chan Controller #
Chan 1, Bank 1 13 00, etc.
Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 07
Chan 1, Bank 1 “ 08, etc.
Chan 8, Bank 2 “ 0F
Chan 1, Bank 3 “ 10, etc.
Chan 8, Bank 4 “ 3F

11
Rear Panel
MCS-3800 is shown, the MCS-3400 is similar.
From left to right we have:
• MIDI In, MIDI Out
• LCD Contrast Control
• MCS-3000X Expander Connector
• Time Code Input
The input jack is 1/4”, unbalanced, that is, tip & sleeve.
• Card Slot #1 and Card Slot #2
Accepts optional, user installable plug in cards for additional
control.
• Power Jack
This supply is 12 Volts DC, at least 3A.
The strain relief clip adjacent to the jack may be used to loop
the power cord through to prevent accidental unplugging.
• Power Switch
Flip up (red showing) to turn power on.
86
Encoders MIDI Chan Controller#
#1, Chan 1, Page 1, Bank 1 2 00, etc.
#5, Chan 1, Page 1, Bank 1 “ 04
#1, Chan 1, Page 2, Bank 1 “ 05, etc.
#5, Chan 1, Page 8, Bank 1 “ 27
#1, Chan 2, Page 1, Bank 1 “ 28, etc.
#5, Chan 2, Page 8, Bank 1 “ 4F
#1, Chan 3, Page 1, Bank 1 “ 50, etc.
#5, Chan 3, Page 8, Bank 1 “ 77
#1, Chan 4, Page 1, Bank 1 3 00, etc.
#5, Chan 6, Page 8, Bank 1 “ 77
#1, Chan 7, Page 1, Bank 1 4 00, etc.
#5, Chan 8, Page 8, Bank 1 “ 4F
#1, Chan 1, Page 1, Bank 2 “ 50, etc.
#5, Chan 1, Page 8, Bank 2 “ 77
#1, Chan 2, Page 1, Bank 2 5 00, etc.
#5, Chan 4, Page 8, Bank 2 “ 77
#1, Chan 5, Page 1, Bank 2 6 00, etc.
#5, Chan 7, Page 8, Bank 2 “ 77
#1, Chan 8, Page 1, Bank 2 7 00, etc.
#5, Chan 8, Page 8, Bank 2 “ 27
#1, Chan 1, Page 1, Bank 3 “ 28, etc.
#5, Chan 2, Page 8, Bank 3 “ 77
#1, Chan 3, Page 1, Bank 3 8 00, etc.
#5, Chan 5, Page 8, Bank 3 “ 77
#1, Chan 6, Page 1, Bank 3 9 00, etc.
#5, Chan 8, Page 8, Bank 3 “ 77
#1, Chan 1, Page 1, Bank 4 10 00, etc.
#5, Chan 3, Page 8, Bank 4 “ 77
#1, Chan 4, Page 1, Bank 4 11 00, etc.
#5, Chan 6, Page 8, Bank 4 “ 77
#1, Chan 7, Page 1, Bank 4 12 00, etc.
#5, Chan 8, Page 8, Bank 4 “ 4F

12 85
Switch MIDI Chan Controller#
up 16 30
Shifted up 16 31
down 16 32
Shifted down 16 33
left 16 34
Shifted left 16 35
right 16 36
Shifted right 16 37
Mute Chan 1, Bank 1 15 00, etc.
Mute Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 07
Solo Chan 1, Bank 1 “ 08, etc.
Solo Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 0F
Aux Chan 1, Bank 1 “ 10, etc.
Aux Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 17
Sel Chan 1, Bank 1 “ 18, etc.
Sel Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 1F
Mute Chan 1, Bank 2 “ 20, etc.
Mute Chan 1, Bank 3 “ 40, etc.
Mute Chan 1, Bank 4 “ 60, etc.
Sel Chan 8, Bank 4 “ 7F

13
Expander Connection
The MCS-3000X Expanders may be physically attached to the
MCS-3400 or MCS-3800 Controller, forming a continuous
control surface.
(MCS-3800 shown with 3 MCS-3000X Expanders attached)
Alternately, the Expander can stand apart from the MCS
Controller. In that case, an optional set of simulated stone end-
bells may be purchased to make the Expander more attractive.
(MCS-3000X shown with Optional End Bells attached.)
The instructions for physical interconnection, and electrical
hookup are on the following pages.
84
Initialization
To clear the memory of the MCS-3800, and restore the Factory
Preset settings, hold both the
UP and DOWN cursor buttons while powering up the unit.
Initialized Settings
From JLCooper, the MCS-3800 or MCS-3400's user-assignable
memory is initialized to a “Factory Preset” set of (mainly)
Controller messages on MIDI Channels 2 through 16.
The exceptions are the Transport switches, which are
initialized to send MIDI Machine messages and (if option card
is installed) Sony 9-pin messages.
The initialized values are as follows:
(MIDI Channel is shown in base 10, Controller # is in Hex)
Switch MIDI Channel Controller #
F1 16 00
Shifted F1 “ 01
F2 “ 02, etc.
Shifted F8 “ 0F
W1 “ 10
Shifted W1 “ 11, etc.
Shifted W7 “ 1D
M1 “ 1E
Shifted M1 “ 1F, etc.
Shifted M5 “ 27

14
Mounting MCS-3000X Expander to Controller
Important: Make All Connections with the Power Off.
Turn the power off of all MCS-3000 units before proceeding.
Plan Work Area
You will want to work at a spacious, well lit surface.
Spread a cloth on the surface to avoid scratching units.
Remove Top of MCS-3400 or MCS-3800 Controller
Using the allen key provided with the Expander, remove the
six top panel screws of the Controller. Remove any optional
Cards from the card slots. Remove one screw under front
center. Lift the whole top panel, a little forward and up. Invert
and lay control-side down on a soft surface. (Circuit side up.)
Remove Top of MCS-3000X
Remove the six top panel screws of the Controller.
Lift top panel, a little forward and up. Invert and lay control-
side down on a soft surface. (Circuit side up.)
Move Left End Bell
Remove the two screws that secure Controller's left end bell.
(These screws will be tight). Attach the left end bell to the left
side of the Expander.
Connect Controller to Expander with Plates Provided
Place the Expander to the left of the Controller, side by side.
Attach the thicker plate to the bottom of both units.
Lay thin (spring steel) plate on top of both units.
Replace top panels of the Controller, guiding in the Time Code
jack and the LCD Contrast control into their holes. Replace the
top panel of the Expander. Replace top screws. Replace
Controller bottom screw. Replace any optional Cards in their
card slots.
83
Technical Information
Dimensions
MCS-3800, without wrist rest and end bells:
20.15" x 9.75" x 2.00"
MCS-3400, without wrist rest and end bells:
16.15" x 9.75" x 2.00"
MCS-3000X, without wrist rest and end bells:
9.26" x 9.75" x 2.00"
MCS Surround Panner, without wrist rest and end bells:
4.63" x 9.75" x 2.00"

15
3000X Expander Electrical Hookup
Important: Make All Connections with the Power Off.
Turn the power off of all MCS-3000 units before proceeding.
The 3000X (8 moving fader controller) can be used either:
(1) Connected to an MCS-3800 (or 3400) or
(2) “Stand Alone”, as a self contained control surface.
On the rear of the Expander is a small cluster of four switches,
known as DIP switches.
(1) To connect to an MCS-3800 or, an MCS-3400
Set the rear DIP switch position #4 up (= off).
When the rear dip switch number 4 is up, that is, off, the
MCS-3000X is connected to the MCS-3800 via its Modular
“telephone-type” connectors. The MCS-3000X’s are connected
by chaining them together with the supplied 4-conductor
modular cables.
Connect Expander to Expander in a similar manner, using the
cables provided.
The system is engineered so that it does not matter which of
the two connectors you use, nor in what order you chain the
expanders.
Warning: Use the cable provided with the 3000X. Do not use
a standard “telephone handset” cable. If you use a standard
“telephone handset” cable, you will short out and possibly
damage the MCS-3800 or MCS-3000X. (Note that pin 1 always
goes to pin 1.)
The data comes out of the MCS-3800, not the 3000X MIDI
input and MIDI output.
82
Time Code Display
The time code display responds to incoming SMPTE or MTC.
If the incoming Time Code is drop frame, the Drop Frame
indicator ("DF") will be lit.
It also displays the last locate command sent.
The time can also be displayed in Feet and Frames.
It is also used for displaying Program Change and
Bank Change commands.
Display Locates or Display Program Changes
Press Shift and Locate (Mode) to change the Keypad and
Time Code display alternately to either Locate Mode to
Program Change Mode.
Display SMPTE, No Frames, or Feet and Frames
Enter Utility Mode by pressing Shift and Assign.
Under "SHOWTC", dial in either "H:M:S:F", or "H:M:S" if you do
not want to see the frames.
Select "Ft: Frm" for film work.
Turn the right-most encoder to select the next page.
Under the word, "OFFSET", use the first encoder to dial in an
offset in hours.

16
Set the Expander ID#
On the rear of the Expander is a small cluster of four switches,
known as DIP switches.
When the rear dip switch number 4 is up, that is, off, the 3
remaining switches are used to set the “ID” number of the
3000X Expander.
These switches set the ID# of each Expander, so the system
knows which Expander represents channels 1 through 8,
which is 9 through 16, etc.
Set the left-most Expander for ID#1 by making sure that
all four switches are up, that is, off.
Follow this chart to set the ID# of multiple units. Off = Up
#4 #3 #2 #1 ID# Fader Numbers
off off off off 1 9 - 16
off off off on 2 17- 24
off off on off 3 25- 32
off off on on 4 33- 40
off on off off 5 41- 48
off on off on 6 49- 56
off on on off 7 57- 64
Important: Be Sure Each Expander has a Unique ID#
A multiple expander system will not operate correctly if two or
more units are set to the same ID#.
On power-up, turn the Expanders on before the MCS-3800.
The MCS-3800 LCD will display the number of 3000X units
connected.
81
Program Change Mode
The Keypad has two modes of operation:
Locate Mode and Program Change Mode.
Press Shift and Locate (Mode) to alternately change from
Locate Mode to Program Change Mode.
In Locate Mode, the LED display shows time code.
In Program Change Mode, the LED display shows either
Program Change (Pch), Bank (ban), or Channel (Chan).
Program Change Mode
Pressing Mode cycles the display through Program Change
(Pch), Bank (ban), or Channel (Chan).
Type a channel number, press Enter to store.
Type a Bank number, press Enter to send it.
Type a Program Change number, press Enter to send it.

17
(2) To Use 3000X “Stand Alone” without an MCS-3800
Set the rear DIP switch position #4 down (= ON)
When the rear dip switch number 4 is down, that is, on, you
will use the MCS-3000X’s MIDI input and MIDI output.
(The MCS-3000X’s modular “telephone-type” connectors are
not used in this modes)
When the rear dip switch number 4 is down, that is, on, the 3
remaining switches are used to select the protocol, that is, the
input and output MIDI commands.
Information about the stand-alone protocols is covered in a
separate document.
DIP Switch Setttings for Protocol Selection
Note that the switches are mounted upside down.
Switch #4 is the left most switch, when viewed from the rear.
Up = off.
#4 #3 #2 #1 Mode
on off off off 0
on off off on 1
on off on off 2
on off on on 3
on on off off 4
on on off on 5
80
Jog
Sets responsiveness of Jog Wheel. Range is 1 to 100.
When controlling a digital audio workstation, there are several
factors that will affect the responsiveness of the wheel, in
addition to the Speed.
Some software applications feature a view of the audio
waveform, allowing the user to "zoom in" and "zoom out" of
the waveform. When "zoomed in", some applications produce
a slower and finer Jog. While "zoomed out", these applications
jog at a faster rate.
In addition (very important), your application may also have a
software preference file for setting Jog responsiveness.
Shuttle
Shuttle Speed range is 1x, 2x, 4x, 16x, and 32x.
That is, when the Shuttle Ring is rotated as far as its goes, the
machine will play up to 32 times normal play speed.

18
System Connections
Power
Make sure the power switch is off before connecting the
external power supply.
Power should be turned off of every MCS-3000X Expander.
There is a strain relief clip on the back of the unit, to prevent
accidental unplugging.
Pass the small plug end of the power supply through this clip.
Loop it around and pass it through again..
Then plug it in.
Time Code
The MCS-3400 and MCS-3800 have a built in time code reader
and display.
If you wish to display time code, connect a source of SMPTE
("LTC") to the Sync In jack.
The input jack is 1/4”, unbalanced, that is, tip and sleeve.
While the time code reader responds to a fairly wide range of
input levels, -10 dBm is the recommended nominal level.
79
SHOWTC
Selects the mode in which incoming time code is displayed in
the 7 -segment LED display.
H:M:S:F means hours : minutes : seconds : frames.
01.32.52.20
H:M:S, means hours : minutes : seconds. Frames are turned off.
01.21.11
Ft :Frm, means Feet and Frames, for film work.
0020.. 00
Bank Name
Allows you to enter a name for each Bank.
When not in Assign Mode, the LCD will normally displays
either the Bank Name or the Encoder names, depending on
whether or not a Page LED is lit.
Press Cancel/ Clear to clear a name.
Use Cursor buttons to move the cursor.
Use the Encoders under each name to dial in a new name.
After exiting Utility Mode, the Bank Name is displayed
whenever the Page LEDs are all off.
OFFSET
For Feet and Frame display mode (see above). A number
entered in hours which is subtracted from the incoming time
code.
For example, if the reel you are working with has time code
that starts at 1 hour, enter 1 hour so feet frame display will start
at 0 feet.

19
MIDI In and Out
Connect the MIDI Out to the MIDI In of the System you are
controlling.
Connect the MIDI In to the MIDI Out of the System you are
controlling.
If a computer-based system, this will be connected to the
computer’s MIDI Interface.
If a non-computer based system, you may want to connect the
MIDI In and MIDI Out to a MIDI Patch Bay (Such as the
JLCooper Synapse) to distribute the commands throughout the
system.
(The Synapse is a Assignable MIDI Patch Bay / Processor, with
16 MIDI Inputs and 20 MIDI Outputs.)
Card Slots #1 and #2
Connection of Optional Cards are covered in their own
manual.
78
Mode: Manually Exiting Special Mode
A host software system, engineered to support the MCS using
Special Mode, will send a command into the MCS, which
switch the unit into Special Mode.
At this point, the MCS is no longer user-programmable.
The user may choose, however, to manually exit the Special
Mode and return to User Assignable mode, without having to
turn the hardware off and on.
This feature is only available if the MCS has already been
switched into Special Mode by an external host system.
Above the first encoder is the word MODE. The encoder is
used select wither User or Host. Selecting User returns the unit
to User Assignable Mode. Selecting Host returns the unit to the
Special Mode.
If the unit has not received any command from a Host system,
since its last power-up, then this feature is not accessible.
Protect
When On, user cannot enter Assign Mode. Display alerts user
memory is protected when attempting to enter Assign Mode.
Dump
Rotate encoder to initiate MIDI System Exclusive bulk data
dump. The data dump takes about 20 seconds.

20 77
The System Section
This chapter discusses the Utility Mode, the
Time Code Display, and Program Change Mode.
Utility Mode is used to control certain basic operating
conditions, including such things as Memory Protect, Bank
Names, and Memory Bulk Dump, etc.
The Time Code Display features a Drop Frame indicator.
Time can be displayed in either SMPTE Time in
hours : minutes : seconds: frames, or simply in
hours : minutes : seconds.
Alternately, the display can be set to Feet : Frames, with an
Offset.
Program Change Mode allows the Keypad to be used to send
MIDI Program and Bank Change commands.
Entering Utility Mode
Enter Utility Mode by pressing Shift and Assign.
Utility has three pages, selected with the right-most encoder.
Exiting Utility Mode
Exit Utility Mode by pressing Assign.
OMS or Free MIDI Definitions
If your computer system requires OMS or FreeMIDI, it will also
require that you edit your studio setup to include the MCS.
The MCS-3400 and MCS-3800 are defined in the same way:
MIDI Controllers that transmit on all MIDI Channels. They send
MIDI Machine Control and can also receive MIDI Time Code.
Typical devices descriptions are shown here.
(FreeMIDI Device Specifications Window)
(OMS Device Info Window)