Kramer RC-6E User manual

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
USER MANUAL
Models:
RC-6E, Universal Room Controller
RC-8E, Universal Room Controller
RC-6IRE, Universal Room Controller
RC-8IRE, Universal Room Controller

Contents
i
Contents
1 Introduction 1
2 Getting Started 1
3 Overview 1
4 Your Universal Room Controller 3
4.1 Your RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE 3
4.2 Your RC-6E and RC-8E 5
5 Using Your Universal Room Controller 6
5.1 Operating the RC-8IRE 9
5.2 An Example of Operating the RC-8IRE 10
5.3 Using the Macro Buttons 11
5.4 Locking the Front Panel 11
5.5 Turning the Light of the Backlit Buttons On and Off 11
5.6 Using the Internal Web Page 12
6 Technical Specifications 12
Figures
Figure 1: RC-6IRE 3
Figure 2: RC-8IRE 3
Figure 3: RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE Upper Side Panel 4
Figure 4: RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE Rear Panel 5
Figure 5: Example of a Typical RC-8IRE Configuration 7
Figure 6: Example of a Typical RC-8IRE Setup in the Lecture Auditorium 8
Figure 7: RC-8IRE Labels Setup 9
Figure 8: RC-8IRE Operation Example 10
Figure 9: RC-8IRE Applet 12
Tables
Table 1: RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE Features 4
Table 2: RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE Upper Side Panel Features 4
Table 3: RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE Rear Panel Features 5
Table 4: Connection Scheme (for the example in Figure 5) 8
Table 5: The Commands Configuration 9
Table 6: Technical Specifications of the Universal Room Controller Series 12

Introduction
1
1 Introduction
Welcome to Kramer Electronics (since 1981): a world of unique, creative and
affordable solutions to the infinite range of problems that confront the video, audio
and presentation professional on a daily basis. In recent years, we have redesigned
and upgraded most of our line, making the best even better! Our 500-plus different
models now appear in 8 Groups
1
, which are clearly defined by function.
Congratulations on purchasing your Kramer RC-6E,RC-8E,RC-6IRE and/or
RC-8IRE Universal Room Controllers, which are designed to let an instructor
enter a multimedia room (for example, a classroom) and operate an A/V system
with ease.
The package includes the following items:
 RC-6E or RC-8E or RC-6IRE or RC-8IRE
 One 3.5mm to IR emitter control cable
 This user manual
2
 Configuration software
2 Getting Started
This user manual is written for the end user. Refer to the separate online RC
Configuration and Installation guide for details of how to install and configure
the Universal Room Controller
3
We recommend that you:
 Review the contents of this user manual
 Use Kramer high performance high resolution cables
4
3 Overview
Kramer’s one-gang wall plates: RC-6E,RC-6IRE , RC-8E, and RC-8IRE
are a unique series of highly versatile controller interfaces that act as an
all-in-one extended remote control panel for control of A/V equipment—

1 GROUP 1: Distribution Amplifiers; GROUP 2: Video and Audio Switchers, Matrix Switchers and Controllers; GROUP 3:
Video, Audio, VGA/XGA Processors; GROUP 4: Interfaces and Sync Processors; GROUP 5: Twisted Pair Interfaces;
GROUP 6: Accessories and Rack Adapters; GROUP 7: Scan Converters and Scalers; and GROUP 8: Cables and Connectors
2 Download up-to-date Kramer user manuals from the Internet at this URL: http://www.kramerelectronics.com
3 That provides information about how to set up the system. This online guide may well be updated on a regular basis. For the
latest online guide, go to http://www.kramerelectronics.com
4 The complete list of Kramer cables is on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Overview
2
especially projectors and associated equipment—in any room (such as
classrooms, boardrooms, or auditoriums). They streamline operations and
simplify control by integrating audio, video, and computer-video sources into
a centralized system.
The Kramer Universal Room Controllers feature:
 An Ethernet port for configuration and control
1
 Configurable backlit buttons
2
to set up any supported
3
command
 Two bidirectional RS-232 wired serial ports, for universal display (for
example, projectors) and switcher control, and one RS-485 serial port
 Two relays for the simplified and centralized control of room functions
(such as lighting, closing blinds, screen settings, and so on)
 Up to four (2x2) IR emitters for IR control (for the RC-8IRE and the
RC-6IRE only)
 An IR-learner for the customized control of external sources, receiving the
IR commands from different remote transmitters without the need for an
external IR remote control unit (for the RC-8IRE and the RC-6IRE only)
 Macro mode operation, for programming up to 15 commands with the
press of a single button. The RC-8E and RC-8IRE (that have eight
buttons) have a total of 120 commands; and the RC-6E and RC-6IRE
(that have six buttons) have a total of 90 commands
 Support for firmware upgrade
To achieve the best performance:
 Connect only good quality connection cables, thus avoiding interference,
deterioration in signal quality due to poor matching, and elevated noise-
levels (often associated with low quality cables)
 Avoid interference from neighboring electrical appliances and position
your Kramer Universal Room Controllers away from moisture, excessive
sunlight and dust
Caution – No operator-serviceable parts inside unit.
Warning – Use only the Kramer Electronics input power
wall adapter that is provided with this unit
4
.
Warning – Disconnect power and unplug unit from wall
before installing or removing device or servicing unit.

1 For example, control of switchers or amplifiers
2 Six buttons for the RC-6E and the RC-6IRE, and eight buttons for the RC-8E and the RC-8IRE
3 To be configured by the system integrator only
4 For example: model number AD2512C, part number 2535-000251

Your Universal Room Controller
3
4 Your Universal Room Controller
This section describes each Universal Room Controller as follows: the RC-6IRE
and the RC-8IRE (see section 4.1), the RC-6E and the RC-8E (see section 4.2).
4.1 Your RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE
Figure 1 and Figure 2 illustrate the RC-6IRE and the RC-8IRE front panels
respectively, and Table 1 defines the front panel features:
Figure 1: RC-6IRE
Figure 2: RC-8IRE

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your Universal Room Controller
4
Table 1: RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE Features
# Feature Function
1 Mounting holes (4) For fastening the controller in place
2 Faceplate Attachment Holes (2) For attaching the faceplate to the controller
1
3 Configurable Control Buttons (Macro
Buttons) Control the room and the A/V equipment (from 1 to 6 for the RC-6IRE, and from 1 to 8 for the RC-8IRE)
4 IR IN Receiver Accepts IR remote commands (for the IR-learner feature)
Front Panel
Buttons
Figure 3: RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE Upper Side Panel
Table 2: RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE Upper Side Panel Features
# Feature Function
5 +12VDC IN PIN Connects (+) to the connector for powering the unit
6 GND PIN Connects (-) to the Ground
7 IR OUT1 PIN
GND PIN Control up to 4 machines via IR Emitters
IR OUT2 PIN
8 RS-232 Terminal Block
Connector (1 and 2)
Connect to the RS-232 connector on the A/V equipment or a PC or other
Serial Controller
9 RS-485 Terminal Block
Connector Connect to the RS-485 detachable terminal block on a switcher or PC
10 RELAY1
11 RELAY2
Connect each relay to a room item (such as lighting, screen settings,
blinds, and so on)
2

1 These screws should not be removed during or after mounting
2 See the examples in Figure 5

Your Universal Room Controller
5
Figure 4 and Table 3 define the RC-6IRE and the RC-8IRE rear panel:
Ethernet Port
Side View
Figure 4: RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE Rear Panel
Table 3: RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE Rear Panel Features
# Feature Function
1 N.U Switch Not used
2 PROGRAM Switch Switch to OFF for normal operation;
Switch to ON for firmware upgrade
3 RS-485 TERM. Switch Switch to ON for RS-485 line termination
4 FACTORY DEFAULT
Button
Press to return to the factory default settings, including all the configured
buttons and the network settings
1
5 Ethernet Port Connects to a PC or other controller through computer networking
4.2 Your RC-6E and RC-8E
The RC-6E and the RC-8E have six and eight front panel buttons
respectively. The IR-learner feature and the IR emitters are excluded from
both the RC-6E and the RC-8E.
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1 Including the factory default IP number: 192.168.1.39 (an IP number is a device's numerical address as expressed in the
format specified in the Internet Protocol)

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Using Your Universal Room Controller
6
5 Using Your Universal Room Controller
1
This user manual is applicable once the unit is installed and configured
2
. The
installation process is not detailed in this user manual
3
, and includes:
 Setting up the labels on the buttons, according to your specific
requirements
4
 Hardware installation
 Connecting the inputs and the display
 Configuration via the Windows®-based configuration software and/or the
IR learner
The universal room controller is very easy to use, as the example in Figure 5
and Table 4 defines
5
:
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1 From this section on, all the information is relevant to the RC-6E, RC-8E, RC-6IRE and RC-8IRE units, unless noted
otherwise
2 By the system integrator
3 Refer to the separate “RC Configuration and Installation” online guide at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
4 It is recommended to place labels on the buttons prior to installing the unit, as this involves removing the face plate
5 Your RC-8IRE was installed and configured to suit your specific requirements. This example describes how to setup one of
an unlimited number of available setups for the system

Using Your Universal Room Controller
7
DVD Player
Lighting
System
S
c
r
e
e
n
P
o
w
e
r
A
m
p
l
i
f
i
e
r
w
i
t
h
s
p
e
a
k
e
r
s
Video
Player
Figure 5: Example of a Typical RC-8IRE Configuration

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Using Your Universal Room Controller
8
Table 4: Connection Scheme (for the example in Figure 5)
This connector: Controls:
RELAY2 The lights
RELAY1 The screen
RS-485 Terminal Block Connector A power amplifier (and speakers)
RS-232 ( TX1 , RX1 ) Terminal Block Connector A projector
1
IR OUT1 PIN
2
A DVD player
3
IR OUT2 PIN
2
A video player
Ethernet The RC-8IRE via a remote control PC
A laptop is connected to the projector
Figure 6 shows the RC-8IRE built into a podium that is located in a lecture
auditorium. An overhead projector and screen, speakers and lights, and a
cabinet with a VCR, a DVD and an amplifier inside, are all controlled via the
RC-8IRE. The presenter’s laptop is located on the podium, next to where the
RC-8IRE is mounted, and is connected directly to the projector.
VCR
DVD
Amplifier
Figure 6: Example of a Typical RC-8IRE Setup in the Lecture Auditorium

1 The second RS-232 port can be used to control another A/V unit or an LCD
2 Connected via the IR emitter cable. IR OUT1 and IR OUT2 can each be connected to identical machines and still be
controlled separately
3 Each IR connector can control two different machines via a dual emitter cable. For example, a DVD player and a document
camera could be connected to the same IR connector (not shown in Figure 5)

Using Your Universal Room Controller
9
5.1 Operating the RC-8IRE
In the following example
1
, illustrated in Figure 7, the RC-8IRE is labeled
with specific functions and each button is programmed
2
to perform several
tasks
3
as defined in Table 5.
Each button may be assigned with up to 15 commands.
Table 5: The Commands Configuration
The
Label
The Macro Sequence
ON 
Power up the projector
 Power up the power amplifier
 Power up the DVD player
 Power up the video player
 Roll down the projector screen
 Turn on the speakers
 1 minute delay [for the projector to
heat up]
 Turn lights off
 The projector selects the PC input
OFF 
Turn lights on
 Power down the projector
 Power down the power amplifier
 Stop the DVD player
 Power down the DVD player
 Stop the video player
 Power down the video player
 Roll up the projector screen
 Turn off the speakers
DVD 
Stop the video player
 The projector selects the DVD input
 Play the DVD
VCR 
Stop the DVD
 The projector selects the VCR input
 Play the VCR
PC 
Stop the DVD
 Stop the VCR
 The projector selects a PC input
Vol UP 
Power amplifier volume up
Vol
DOWN
 Power amplifier volume down
ON
OFF
DVD
PC
VCR
Vol
UP
Vol
DOWN
HELP
DESK
Figure 7: RC-8IRE Labels Setup
HELP
DESK
 Call for technical assistance

1 This is only one example among numerous possibilities, each button can be configured as required
2 By the system integrator
3 A macro sequence, including up to 15 commands per button, carried out one after the other

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Using Your Universal Room Controller
10
5.2 An Example of Operating the RC-8IRE
Figure 8 shows an operating example:
Figure 8: RC-8IRE Operation Example

Using Your Universal Room Controller
11
5.3 Using the Macro Buttons
Pressing any button initiates a macro sequence
1
, during which the button
blinks (as programmed by the system integrator).
If during the macro sequence the button blinks faster than usual
2
, this indicates that a
malfunction has been detected
3
and the RC-8IRE exits the macro sequence.
To solve the problem, summon technical help
4
If you want to stop a macro sequence, press and hold that button for 5
seconds. The sequence will come to an end. You can resume operation by
pressing any of the buttons
5
. The unit will carry out the macro sequence
commands from the beginning.
5.4 Locking the Front Panel
The front panel can be locked to avoid unintended tampering with the buttons.
To lock the panel:
 On the RC-8IRE (RC-8E): press and hold buttons 1 and 5 simultaneously
for about 2 seconds
 On the RC-6IRE (RC-6E): press and hold buttons 1 and 4 simultaneously
for about 2 seconds
All the buttons blink momentarily and the panel is locked.
When pressing a button at this stage, all the buttons blink twice.
To unlock the panel buttons, press the respective buttons once again. All the
buttons blink momentarily and unlock. You can now use the buttons as usual.
5.5 Turning the Light of the Backlit Buttons On and Off
When the room is darkened, the buttons can be illuminated for convenience.
To turn on the backlight:
 On the RC-8IRE (RC-8E): press buttons 2 and 6 simultaneously
 On the RC-6IRE (RC-6E): press buttons 2 and 5 simultaneously
To turn off the backlight, press the respective buttons once again.

1 The macro sequence can be carried out instantly or can take a while, depending on the delay times included in the sequence
2 Six times per second, as compared with twice per second during normal operation
3 For example, a faulty DVD player
4 In this example, press the HELP DESK button
5 Including the button you kept pressed to stop the macro sequence

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Technical Specifications
12
5.6 Using the Internal Web Page
The internal Web page can be used to remotely operate the RC-8IRE via the
Ethernet.
To control your RC-8IRE via the internal Web page, do the following:
1. Type the unit’s IP number
1
in the Address bar of your browser (or type
any link defined by the system integrator).
The RC-8IRE front panel is displayed on your screen (see Figure 9).
2. Press the on-screen buttons to control the unit.
Figure 9: RC-8IRE Applet
6 Technical Specifications
Table 6 defines the technical specifications:
Table 6: Technical Specifications
2
of the Universal Room Controller Series
PORTS: 2 RS-232 on terminal block connectors; 1 RS-485 on terminal block connectors;
1 ETHERNET RJ-45 port
OUTPUTS: 2 relays on terminal block connectors (36V AC or DC, 2A, 60VAC maximum on
non-inductive load); 2 IR emitters on terminal block connectors (for RC-6IRE
and RC-8IRE )
POWER SOURCE: 12 VDC, 155mA
DIMENSIONS: 15.1cm x 3.75cm x 8.6cm (5.94" x 1.48" x 3.39", W, D, H)
WEIGHT: 0.3 kg (0.67 lbs.) approx
ACCESSORIES: Kramer 3.5mm to IR Emitter Control Cable (C-A35/IRE-10), power supply, two extra
M3x5 screws, Java based control software (internal), Windows®-based Kramer
control software
OPTIONS: Kramer 3.5mm to IR Emitter Control Cable (C-A35/IRE-10), Kramer 3.5mm to Dual IR
Emitter Control Cable (C-A35/2IRE-10), 15 meter and 20 meter IR emitter extension
cables

1 The default IP number is 192.168.1.39, and may be changed by the system integrator
2 Specifications are subject to change without notice

13
LIMITED WARRANTY
Kramer Electronics (hereafter Kramer) warrants this product free from defects in material and workmanship under the
following terms.
HOW LONG IS THE WARRANTY
Labor and parts are warranted for seven years from the date of the first customer purchase.
WHO IS PROTECTED?
Only the first purchase customer may enforce this warranty.
WHAT IS COVERED AND WHAT IS NOT COVERED
Except as below, this warranty covers all defects in material or workmanship in this product. The following are not covered
by the warranty:
1. Any product which is not distributed by Kramer, or which is not purchased from an authorized Kramer dealer. If you are
uncertain as to whether a dealer is authorized, please contact Kramer at one of the agents listed in the web site
www.kramerelectronics.com.
2. Any product, on which the serial number has been defaced, modified or removed.
3. Damage, deterioration or malfunction resulting from:
i) Accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, fire, water, lightning or other acts of nature
ii) Product modification, or failure to follow instructions supplied with the product
iii) Repair or attempted repair by anyone not authorized by Kramer
iv) Any shipment of the product (claims must be presented to the carrier)
v) Removal or installation of the product
vi) Any other cause, which does not relate to a product defect
vii) Cartons, equipment enclosures, cables or accessories used in conjunction with the product
WHAT WE WILL PAY FOR AND WHAT WE WILL NOT PAY FOR
We will pay labor and material expenses for covered items. We will not pay for the following:
1. Removal or installations charges.
2. Costs of initial technical adjustments (set-up), including adjustment of user controls or programming. These costs are the
responsibility of the Kramer dealer from whom the product was purchased.
3. Shipping charges.
HOW YOU CAN GET WARRANTY SERVICE
1. To obtain service on you product, you must take or ship it prepaid to any authorized Kramer service center.
2. Whenever warranty service is required, the original dated invoice (or a copy) must be presented as proof of warranty coverage,
and should be included in any shipment of the product. Please also include in any mailing a contact name, company, address, and
a description of the problem(s).
3. For the name of the nearest Kramer authorized service center, consult your authorized dealer.
LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited in duration to
the length of this warranty.
EXCLUSION OF DAMAGES
The liability of Kramer for any effective products is limited to the repair or replacement of the product at our option. Kramer
shall not be liable for:
1. Damage to other property caused by defects in this product, damages based upon inconvenience, loss of use of the product, loss
of time, commercial loss; or:
2. Any other damages, whether incidental, consequential or otherwise. Some countries may not allow limitations on how long an
implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitations and exclusions may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from place to place.
NOTE: All products returned to Kramer for service must have prior approval. This may be obtained from your dealer.
This equipment has been tested to determine compliance with the requirements of:
EN-50081: "Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC);
generic emission standard.
Part 1: Residential, commercial and light industry"
EN-50082: "Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) generic immunity standard.
Part 1: Residential, commercial and light industry environment".
CFR-47: FCC Rules and Regulations:
Part 15: “Radio frequency devices
Subpart B – Unintentional radiators”
CAUTION!
Servicing the machines can only be done by an authorized Kramer technician. Any user who makes changes or modifications to
the unit without the expressed approval of the manufacturer will void user authority to operate the equipment.
Use the supplied DC power supply to feed power to the machine.
Please use recommended interconnection cables to connect the machine to other components.

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com
E-mail: [email protected]
P/N: 2900-REV 1
For the latest information on our products and a list of Kramer
distributors, visit our Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com,
where updates to this user manual may be found.
We welcome your questions, comments and feedback.
Caution
Safety Warning:
Disconnect the unit from the power supply before
opening/servicing.