Niles Intellicontrol Tabletop Remote User manual

Niles Audio Corporation
IntelliControl Reference Manual
Version 8.1 April 2002

Contents
1A. IntelliControl Features and Benefits ................................................................................................................... 1
A Complete System...................................................................................................................................................... 1
One Touch “Intelligent Macros” To Turn The Entire Home Theater On or Off .................................................... 2
Automatically Unmute the System.............................................................................................................................. 2
Manage and Automate “Unfriendly” Components .................................................................................................. 2
Trigger Screens, Screen Masking Devices, Projector Lifts, Curtains and Drapes ................................................. 2
PC Programmable with IntelliFile II......................................................................................................................... 2
Proudly Made in USA................................................................................................................................................. 3
1B. IntelliControl Parts Guide..................................................................................................................................... 3
The Tabletop Remote .................................................................................................................................................. 3
The Main System Unit (MSU) .................................................................................................................................... 4
1C. Selling the System................................................................................................................................................... 6
Selling Automated Home Theater Systems ................................................................................................................ 6
Solving The Problems of Conventional Home Theater Operation........................................................................... 6
Problem One: Turning the System On .................................................................................................................. 6
The IntelliControl Solution: Syncronization (Sync) ............................................................................................. 6
Problem Two: Selecting Inputs & Modes ............................................................................................................. 8
The IntelliControl Solution: Software Managers to Select Inputs and Modes .................................................... 8
2A. Power Syncronization.......................................................................................................................................... 11
Infrared Turn On/Off Requires “Sync” ................................................................................................................... 11
Components that Don’t Need Sync – Those with Latching Power......................................................................... 11
Remember the Exception – Tuners built into Receivers and Televisions............................................................... 12
2B. Sync Methods and Options ................................................................................................................................. 12
Video Sync ................................................................................................................................................................. 13
Syncing the TV..................................................................................................................................................... 13
12 Volt Sync............................................................................................................................................................... 13
1. 12V DC Sync via a Wall Adapter Plugged into a Switched AC Outlet ...................................................... 13
2. Niles LS-1 Light Sensor................................................................................................................................ 14
3. Niles OTI-512 Voltage Sensor....................................................................................................................... 14
4. Niles APC-2 Current Sensing Switcher ........................................................................................................ 14
5. Niles IPC-6 Current Sensing AC Power Controller ..................................................................................... 14
Each Sync Connection on the Main System Unit Corresponds to a Particular Master Key on the Tabletop
Remote ....................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Conventional Labeling Rule: Video on the Left, Everything Else on the Right .....................................................16
Once Again: Remember the Exception ............................................................................................................... 16
2C. Component Compatibility .................................................................................................................................. 16
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Infrared Compatibility .............................................................................................................................................. 16
Testing Components for Automation Conflicts........................................................................................................ 17
Testing Components for Sync Method ..................................................................................................................... 18
Sync Off Delay ..................................................................................................................................................... 18
3A. Pages, Keys, and Sequences................................................................................................................................ 22
An Address For Every IR Command........................................................................................................................ 23
Issue A Sequence From A Function Key.................................................................................................................. 23
Purpose of the Master Key Pages ............................................................................................................................ 24
Purpose of the Default Page..................................................................................................................................... 24
Purpose of the Library Pages................................................................................................................................... 25
3B. Master Key Automation: Part 1 - One Touch System Turn On................................................................... 25
Sync Snapshot............................................................................................................................................................ 26
Event One – Initial Sequence.................................................................................................................................... 26
Event Two - TV Power.............................................................................................................................................. 27
Event Three - Preamp Power ................................................................................................................................... 27
Event Four - Component Power (Not Applicable to Master Keys Nine and Ten).................................................27
Event Five - TV Input................................................................................................................................................ 27
Event Six - Preamp Input.......................................................................................................................................... 27
Event Seven - Surround Mode .................................................................................................................................. 27
Event Eight - Ending Sequence ................................................................................................................................ 27
3C. Master Keys: Part 2 - Special Features............................................................................................................ 28
Automation Bypass for Manually Adjusted Features.............................................................................................. 28
Automation Bypass for a Typical Application.................................................................................................... 28
How to Program “Component Power” for Multiple Master Keys which Share a Common Source.................. 29
Press and Hold a Master Key................................................................................................................................... 30
Custom Programming for Preamp/Receivers with Separate On/Off Commands ................................................. 31
3D. Master Keys: Part 3 - Direct IR, Sequence IR, and Managers ..................................................................... 31
Direct IR - A Different “Single” IR Code for each of the Component’s Inputs.....................................................31
Testing Direct IR .................................................................................................................................................. 31
Sequence IR— a Single “Input Toggle” Command and a Secret Back-Door “Anchor” Command(s) .............. 31
Finding the Secret Back-Door “Anchor” Command.......................................................................................... 32
Testing the “Anchor” Command .........................................................................................................................32
Input Manager – For Components with only a Single “Input Toggle” Command............................................... 32
Testing the “Input Manager” Method.................................................................................................................. 32
Determine the “Defaults” ..................................................................................................................................... 32
3E. Master Keys: Part 4 – Intelligent System Turn Off ........................................................................................ 33
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Event 1 - “System Off” Initial Sequence.................................................................................................................. 33
Event 2 - TV Auto Turn Off....................................................................................................................................... 33
Event 3 - Auto Volume Reset .................................................................................................................................... 33
Event 4 - Preamp Auto Turn Off .............................................................................................................................. 33
Event 5 - Component Auto Turn Off ........................................................................................................................ 33
Event 6 - “System Off” Ending Sequence................................................................................................................ 33
3F. The Audio, Video, and Assignable Relays with Control Voltage Output .................................................... 34
Relay Voltage Limitations......................................................................................................................................... 34
Audio 12V Output ..................................................................................................................................................... 34
Video 12V Output and Relay .................................................................................................................................... 34
Assignable 12V Output and Relay............................................................................................................................ 34
3G. Utilities ................................................................................................................................................................... 35
ID Code ..................................................................................................................................................................... 35
Volume Reset............................................................................................................................................................. 35
IR Routing.................................................................................................................................................................. 35
Dual TV ..................................................................................................................................................................... 36
Mute Manager........................................................................................................................................................... 36
4A. Using Your Original Remote Controls via an IR Repeater System ............................................................. 37
Integrating a Second Zone........................................................................................................................................ 37
Turning On Common Sources in Multi-Zone Systems ............................................................................................ 38
Integrating the Niles RVL-6 and MRZ-6 Multi-Room Controllers......................................................................... 39
Multiple TV Array In A Media Room....................................................................................................................... 39
Integrating the Niles IntelliPad™ Into the Home Theater...................................................................................... 39
Integrating a Learning Touchscreen Into An IntelliControl Home Theater..........................................................39
Teach the RF/IR Conversion Codes for the Master Keys, Function Keys, and System Off Key........................... 40
Step-by-Step Installation of a New System.............................................................................................................. 41
1. Connect, Power Up, and Test The Home Theater.......................................................................................... 41
2. Check MSU Location for Freedom from Interference .................................................................................... 41
3. Connect and Power Up the MSU, Your PC, and the IntelliFile II .................................................................. 41
5. Testing and Troubleshooting RF Transmission and Reception....................................................................... 42
6. Connect Flashers and Sync Cables................................................................................................................... 43
7. Flasher Level Check .......................................................................................................................................... 44
8. The IR/RF Test LED......................................................................................................................................... 45
Specifications................................................................................................................................................................ 46
iii

The IntelliControl Tabletop Remote......................................................................................................................... 46
The IntelliControl Main System Unit ....................................................................................................................... 46
iv

Chapter
1
IntelliControl® Home Theater Automation
System
1A. IntelliControl Features and Benefits
Introducing the IntelliControl, the world’s first affordable home theater automation system
expressly designed to provide true one-touch operation. Unlike universal remote controls,
the IntelliControl System senses the actual on/off state of all of your audio/video
components. When you press a Master Key, the built-in microprocessor has the
intelligence to decide which components need to be powered up, depending on what
Master Key was selected and the On/Off state of the components.
After the system components have been turned on, the IntelliControl issues all of the
necessary surround-sound mode commands, the preamp input selection commands, the
TV input commands, and any “play” or “favorite station” commands. For the first time,
most anyone in the family can operate the system without training, prompting or head-
scratching.
Ten Master Keys can be custom labeled to reflect your system components or features.
When you select a source, it lights up letting you know it’s ready to be controlled.
Traditional universal remotes are confusing because “aux” might actually select the
satellite receiver, and “VCR2” selects the TV. Now, each of the sources in your system
are correctly labeled. By pressing one of these Master “scene-setting” Keys, your system
is completely turned on, configured, and set up to watch and control the selected source.
The only other systems capable of this unique combination of custom labeling and full
automation of a mixture of multi-brand components are very expensive touchscreen
automation systems. In addition to the expense, touchscreens are menu-driven, and
always require more than one step to operate. The IntelliControl offers genuine one-
touch operation at an affordable price.
A Complete System
The system consists of an ergonomically designed RF (radio frequency) Tabletop Remote
Control and an “intelligent” Main System Unit (MSU). Powerful combinations of hardware
and software functions within the Main System Unit manage and control every aspect of
the home theater.
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One Touch “Intelligent Macros” To Turn The Entire Home Theater On or Off
Normal home theater system operation requires you to turn on multiple components. It is
easy to make a mistake, which can create a situation where you must be a detective and
hunt down the fugitive component that is “off”, when it really should be “on”. The
IntelliControl eliminates all of this troubleshooting. A single touch of any of the ten installer
labeled “scene-setting” keys (typically labeled for sources e.g. TV, VCR, CD) will initiate
an intelligent sequence of commands (macro).
The IntelliControl will only issue a component’s power command if it is off. All of the
necessary components are turned on, every time. After the system components have
been turned on, the IntelliControl automatically completes the system configuration,
enabling you to watch and listen to the selected source. Now, a complex mix of different
brands of audio/video components can be operated with the same ease and simplicity of a
traditional television set.
Automatically Unmute the System
Many surround-sound preamps or receivers can unpleasantly surprise you with their
“mute” functions. For example, if you mute the system to answer a phone call and then
press a Master Key or the “Volume Up” Key, the volume will be too low. If you first raise
the volume then remember that you muted it, a press of the “Mute” button will issue a
deafening blast.
The IntelliControl is capable of “managing” the mute command. The system will mute
when you press the “Mute” key. However, it will now unmute automatically whenever you
press a Master Key, “Volume Up” or the “Mute” key.
Manage and Automate “Unfriendly” Components
Many high-performance audio/video components have remote control functions that are
impossible to automate with conventional automation equipment. The components are
really just designed for the user who demands manual control at all times. The
IntelliControl has unique software “managers” which enable complete automation of
components that are difficult to automate. For the first time, components chosen for
optimum performance can be automated using the IntelliControl.
Trigger Screens, Screen Masking Devices, Projector Lifts, Curtains and Drapes
The IntelliControl provides dedicated 12-volt DC triggers for both the Video and the Audio
Scenes. The Video scene also triggers a latching (normally open) and a latching (normally
closed) contact relay. An "assignable" relay and 12v DC voltage can be triggered by any
key as a step in a programmed sequence. These relays and voltages enable devices
which are not IR controlled to be automated by the IntelliControl system.
PC Programmable with IntelliFile II
An IntelliControl system configuration can be programmed, saved, and edited using the
Niles IntelliFile II Programming Software and interface. A PC running Windows 95 or
higher is required. Niles does not offer a Mac compatible version at this time.
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Proudly Made in USA
The IntelliControl is designed and built in the USA and comes with a limited two year parts
and labor warranty.
1B. IntelliControl Parts Guide
Figure 1 The IntelliControl Tabletop Remote
The Tabletop Remote
The Tabletop Remote is a radio frequency (RF) transmitter which communicates with the
Main System Unit (MSU) on a RF carrier frequency of 418MHz. The Tabletop Remote
features the following:
• Ten Master Keys – The ten Master Keys on the left side of the remote may be
custom labeled and will initiate the IntelliControl’s automation functions when
programmed via the IntelliFile II PC Interface and Programming Software. Pressing a
Master Key will prompt the MSU to check the On/Off status of all of the components in
the system and issue the necessary IR commands to configure the system so the
user may enjoy the selected source.
• System Off Key – When pressed, the Tabletop Remote will instruct the MSU to
check the On/Off status of all the components in the system and issue the necessary
IR commands to power down the system.
• Backlight Key – Pressing the Backlight Key (located on the upper left corner of the
Tabletop Remote) will illuminate all the keys to enable complete control of the system
in dark rooms.
• Function Keys – The thirty-two Function Keys include the numeric, menu, transport,
mute, volume, and channel keys. Once a Master Key is selected, the Function Keys
3

correspond to the functions of that selected source. However, the volume and mute
keys are usually programmed to control the preamp only.
Figure 2 Main System Unit – Top View
Figure 3 Main System Unit – Front View
The Main System Unit (MSU)
The Main System Unit is the “brain” of the IntelliControl system. Once a RF command is
issued from the Tabletop Remote, the MSU processes the command and controls all
functions of the system. All programming is stored inside the MSU. The Main System Unit
features the following:
• Power Connector – Located on the upper left side of the MSU, the Power Connector
accommodates a 12V DC 1A UL approved external power supply (XF00044 -
included).
• RF Test Port – Also located on the upper left side of the MSU is the RF Test Port.
The RF Test Port enables you to receive real-time confirmation that RF signals are
received and understood, detect interference, and test for sync status. The bicolor
4

RF/IR Test LED (FG00727) is available as an accessory, and should be sold and
installed in every IntelliControl home theater.
• Video Sync Inputs – The eight Composite (RCA) Video Sync Ports are provided to
sense the on/off power status of IR controlled components with video output. Your
system design may require additional video cables and “Y” adapters.
• 12V Sync Inputs – The 12V Sync Inputs are provided to sense the on/off power
status of IR controlled components. Your system design may require 12V DC wall
adapters or Niles switchers (APC-2, LS-1, OTI-512) with a 10’ Accessory Cable
(FG00724).
• Transfer Connector – The three conductor Transfer Connector enables the transfer
of programming information from the IntelliFile II PC Interface or the original
IntelliControl Programmer to the MSU and vice versa. You may want to permanently
install a 20’ Transfer Cable (FG00725) to provide future access for programming
updates.
• IR Flasher Outputs- The twelve IR Flasher Outputs issue IR codes to IR controlled
components. Your system design may require IRC-2P MiniFlashers (FG00726)
and/or 3.5 to 3.5 mono mini-plug cables for hardwired connections to compatible
components.
• 12V DC Control Voltage Outputs – These connections can be used to trigger
screens, Niles switchers, and other devices. Your system design may require 10’
Accessory Cables (FG00724). The IntelliControl features an “Audio 12V” output
(active whenever a source that utilizes the preamp is selected), a “Video 12V” output
(active whenever a source that utilizes the TV is selected), and an “Assignable 12V”
output (activated as part of a sequence with the “Assignable Relay On” command).
• Dry Contact Closures / Relays – These connections can be used to trigger lights,
curtains, screens, lifts, and other devices. Your system design may require multi-
conductor cable. The IntelliControl features a “Video Relay” (active whenever a
source that utilizes the TV is selected), and an “Assignable Relay” (activated as part of
a sequence with the “Assignable Relay On” command).
• IR Data Input Connectors (“Home Theater IR” and “Second Zone IR”) – These
connections enable IR data to be fed into the MSU from Niles IR sensors, keypads, IR
Main System Units, or Multi-room Controllers around the house. IR data received at
the “Home Theater IR” port is passed through all flashers. IR data received at the
“Second Zone IR” port is passed through flashers 1 – 8 only.
• Antenna Socket – The BNC connector accommodates the supplied antenna. The
antenna must be installed perpendicular to the ground for best results. A 6 meter
antenna extension cable and mounting bracket are included if remote installation of
the antenna is necessary.
• IR Flasher Level Controls – The twelve flasher level controls enable the installer to
control the strength of the IR output sent to each of the components in the system.
Flasher strength increases as the pots are turned clockwise (a jeweler’s screwdriver is
required). Before beginning to program the system, it is recommended that a Niles IR
Sensor be connected to the MSU’s “Home Theater IR” port and each of the flasher
level adjustments be set using the components’ original remote controls.
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1C. Selling the System
Selling Automated Home Theater Systems
In the past, selling a home theater system has always involved system design trade-offs.
With every profitable upgrade you sell to your customer there is a “hidden” cost to you
after the installation, which is your time.
Along with selling and installing the system, you must assume the responsibility for training
the customer to actually use the new features or enjoy the enhanced performance. The
frustration many consumers feel, even after repeated training sessions, certainly limits
referrals and sometimes leads to refunds. In any event, the time required to drill customers
so that they can reliably turn on and operate the system can be ridiculously expensive for
you and tedious for your customer. The IntelliControl enables you, the salesperson, to
design and sell absolutely automated home theater systems (systems that require minimal
training to operate and which generate repeated referrals).
In order to successfully sell the IntelliControl to consumers, you should be able to
effectively present what “Home Theater Automation” means, in terms the consumer will
understand. The following sections elaborate how the IntelliControl’s automation differs
from anything that has ever been sold and installed into a home theater at this price point.
Solving The Problems of Conventional Home Theater Operation
The IntelliControl uses a unique approach to solve the classic problems of operating a
home theater. In this section, we will take a closer look at what those problems are, and
how the IntelliControl solves them.
Problem One: Turning the System On
In a conventional system, turning on a home theater with a remote control can be so
difficult, that most people simply walk up to the equipment where they can see each
component and try to remember what needs to be done. Since most components feature
“toggle” power commands (one button which turns the component both “On” and “Off”),
you cannot simply press the power button on each of your remotes in turn or issue a
macro of many power commands from a sequencing remote or touchscreen. For
example: If you put the videotape into your VCR, it would automatically turn on, and the
act of pressing the power button on each of your remotes (or pressing the macro button on
your touchscreen) would turn on the rest of your system, but would turn off the VCR).
The IntelliControl Solution: Syncronization (Sync)
The IntelliControl’s Main System Unit is connected to all of the home theater components.
Its unique video and 12V sensing circuits enable it to actually “know” whether each
component is on or off.
When the user presses any Master Key, the IntelliControl’s microprocessor checks the
power status of each component and synchronizes the system to the end user’s desires
by issuing only the necessary power commands. No matter what their previous on or off
states, the IntelliControl will know exactly which components need to be powered up.
6

Power synchronization is not just used when the system is first turned on. It is also used
when a new Master Key is selected. The IntelliControl checks to see if anything needs to
be turned on or off, and issues the necessary power commands.
Figure 4 System Schematic
7

Problem Two: Selecting Inputs & Modes
Home theaters need to have the surround receiver’s audio inputs selected, the correct
surround-sound mode selected, and the correct TV input selected. Even if there is a
separate button for every mode or input, the user must remember which input label is
correct for each component and keep track of which remote is which. Although some
remotes have the ability to issue “macros”, most systems incorporate at least one
component that is “macro-proof” (a component that uses a single “INPUT” or “MODE”
command to cycle through all of the choices). There is no way for the remote control to
“know” which input was last selected. So, the consumer must remember which input it was
and cycle through the choices manually. Operation is frustratingly complex for anyone.
The IntelliControl Solution: Software Managers to Select Inputs and Modes
The IntelliControl’s Main System Unit is programmed with powerful software “managers”
that automate Input and Mode selection. No matter what type of IR command is required
to change the inputs or the modes, The IntelliControl automatically selects the correct
configuration for the source selected.
Additionally, for the first time, you can design sophisticated configurations that improve
system performance without worrying about the difficulty the end-user might have
remembering everything (i.e. you could run S-Video direct to the TV’s S-Video input for the
DSS, while composite video is run from the other sources to the TV’s video input).
This automation does not get in the way of hobbyists who like to play with the surround-
sound modes. The IntelliControl will automatically select the normal surround-sound
mode for each input when the user presses a Master Key.
However, if the hobbyist decides to experiment with different modes, he/she can press
one of the ten custom labeled Master Keys (labeled “Surround” for example), change and
adjust the surround-sound, and when they return to the last source selected, the surround-
sound mode will not automatically change back to the normal mode (this is an example of
the IntelliControl’s “Automation Bypass” feature). Only when the user selects a new source
will the IntelliControl take over again and automatically select the default surround-sound
mode for the new source. Now, the hobbyist can peacefully coexist with the rest of the
family, because he/she will never accidentally leave the system in the wrong input or the
wrong surround-sound mode.
Problem Three: Decorating Electronically – Putting All The Components In
Plain Sight
If the equipment is placed out of sight behind cabinet doors and an infrared repeater
system is installed, the user cannot see which component is on, which input is selected,
etc. Either way, the user is cursed with either a stack of components with cryptically
8

flickering LEDs in plain sight or a cabinet full of components that can only be operated if
the doors are open.
The IntelliControl Solution: Automation Allows Behind Closed Door
Operation
Because the IntelliControl automates all of the system’s functions, the user doesn’t need
to check the power status or the currently selected input of each component. The
IntelliControl is constantly checking the power status and the software Managers are
correctly configuring the system for any source. As a result, the components can be
placed behind closed doors.
Problem Four: When The System Turns On, The Volume Is Too Low, or Too
High
Surround-sound preamps/receivers typically stay at the last volume selected when they
are turned off. As a result, turning on a system can sometimes be puzzling because there
is no sound, while at other times, turning on a system can be ear-shattering.
IntelliControl Solution: The Volume Resets Automatically At Turn Off
The IntelliControl can be programmed to automatically reset the receiver’s volume to a
comfortable level. When the “System Off” key is pressed, the IntelliControl can be
programmed to issue the “Volume Down” for as long as necessary to take the
preamp/receiver to minimum, then raise it to a comfortable level regardless of how loud or
soft the system had been playing. Only then does the IntelliControl turn the system off.
The system always turns on at a moderate volume setting. No more puzzling or surprising
accidents.
Problem Five: The Pitfalls of Mute
It has been traditional for most surround-sound receivers and preamps to offer the end
user a separate “Mute” button. This button has created thousands of service calls
worldwide. You press “Mute” once, the system mutes, you press it again and it unmutes.
However, the user must remember that the system is muted. If the user forgets, then there
is no sound. Or worse, a service call is created.
IntelliControl Solution: Software Managers to Manage Mute
9

The IntelliControl’s Main System Unit can be programmed to automate the “Mute”
command. Now, when one person presses “Mute”, nobody has to remember anything.
The IntelliControl remembers. When anyone touches any key, the preamp will unmute.
Problem Six: Infrared Remote Controls Are Line-Of-Sight Only
Chapter
2
In a conventional system using a “macro” remote, various problems can occur if the
remote control is not pointed correctly, or not held steadily in one position until all of its
commands are issued. If the user’s hand slips, or someone walks by, some of the
commands may not be received. Annoying problems, which are exaggerated in larger
rooms, will occur.
IntelliControl Solution: Radio Frequency Commands Between the Tabletop
Remote Control and the System
The IntelliControl issues a single RF “automation” command when a button is pushed.
Because radio signals operate at any angle and cannot be physically blocked, the
system’s automation is extremely reliable. All macros are issued by the MSU, which feeds
IR commands directly to the components. The IntelliControl provides the end-user with
one-touch operation every time.
10

Power Syncronization and Component
Compatibility
2A. Power Syncronization
Infrared Turn On/Off Requires “Sync”
Every component which requires an infrared command to turn “On” or “Off” must be
synced to the IntelliControl. Based on the “sync status” of the selected component, the
IntelliControl will know whether or not to issue a “Power” or “On” command when a Master
Key is selected. The same basic procedure applies to turning the system off. The
IntelliControl monitors the on/off status of the components in either of two ways, “12V
Sync” and “Video Sync”.
Components that Don’t Need Sync – Those with Latching Power
Components which “latch” into an “On” state when power is supplied do not need sync.
The term “Latching Power” describes any component which has a Power button which
“latches” into the “On” position and can be turned on automatically when AC power is
supplied. “Single” and “5-disc” CD players, as well as most Tape Decks traditionally plug
into the switched outlet of the preamp/receiver and do not require IR “power” or “On” and
“Off” commands to manage their power. Check the power consumption of each device in
the system and total them. If all of the connected component’s combined power
consumption exceeds the limitations of the preamp’s switched outlet, you must specify a
Niles AC-3 to switch the “On” and “Off”. See Figure 9
Figure 6 Using the Niles AC-3 to switch on source components featuring “latching” power
via the Audio Control Voltage Output. (The Audio 12V is automatically activated whenever
a source that utilizes the preamp is selected).
11

For some components, it may be useful to turn them on and off with a Niles AC-3 triggered
by one of the three relay voltages (“Audio”, Video”, or “Assignable”). You could elect to
turn on and off a latching power CD player via the Assignable Relay if you specified an
AC-3 to power it on and off. When programming, you could add the “Relay On” command
to the CD Master Key’s Ending Sequence and the “Relay Off” command to all other
Master Keys and the “System Off” Key.
Figure 7 A projector with latching power may be turned on via an AC-3 triggered by the
Video Control Voltage Output. (The Video 12V Output is automatically activated
whenever a source that utilizes the TV is selected).
Remember the Exception – Tuners built into Receivers and Televisions
It is important to note that a stereo receiver has both a tuner and a preamp in one chassis.
If the receiver does not feature separate “On” and “Off” commands (or latching power, in
which case it could be activated via the “Audio 12V” trigger and an AC-3 as described
above), it must be synced to the “Preamp 12V” sync port.
Since the receiver’s AM/FM tuner is automatically turned on/off with the receiver, the tuner
itself does not need sync (or to have a “Component Power” command programmed on the
tuner’s page under “Components” when programming with IntelliFile II). Essentially, the
tuner is treated as a component with latching power. Likewise, most televisions have both
a television tuner and a television monitor in one chassis. You sync the television monitor
to the TV’s dedicated sync port, and treat the television tuner as a source with latching
power.
2B. Sync Methods and Options
The following are the methods you will use to signal the IntelliControl that a component is
on or off.
12

Video Sync
Most video sources provide either a picture or a blue-screen when the device is on. Using
a Y-splitter, this video output can be routed to both the video switching Preamp (or TV)
and to the MSU’s composite video sync port that corresponds to that source’s Master Key.
Note: The labeling of the Master Keys on the Tabletop Remote must match the sync
connections on the MSU. (For example, if the VCR is Master Key #4, one side of the
VCR’s split video output must be connected to video sync port #4).
The IntelliControl video sync ports have an input impedance of 10,000 ohms. This high
impedance circuit assures that even with the use of a “Y” or splitter connection, the signal
sent to the television (or Preamp) is absolutely unaffected. Typically, a “Y” connector and
an additional video cable are needed for video sync. If the component has more than one
video output, only a cable is needed.
Syncing the TV
Televisions, which have multiple inputs, present a sync problem. Some TV’s do not output
a video signal from the Monitor Video output when there is no signal coming into the
selected input. Thus, the Intellicontrol will be deceived into thinking that the TV is off, when
it is on. Although a TV’s monitor output will not provide reliable sync, there are four
options:
1. Use the TV’s “Tuner Output” if available. This will ensure that the Sync is reliable.
2. Specify a Niles APC-2 current sensing device to detect the flow of current to the TV
when it is on. Note: This is the only reliable way to sync a Plasma TV (assuming it
does not feature separate “On” and “Off” codes).
3. Use a Niles LS-1 Light Sensor. (See “12V Sync” options below)
4. Use a TV with separate “On” and “Off” commands.
Note: The TV’s sync signal output (video or 12V) must be connected to the dedicated “TV
Sync” port on the IntelliControl MSU.
12 Volt Sync
The IntelliControl Main System Unit has 12V Sync connections for the system’s
preamp/receiver, TV Monitor (or projector), and up to eight source components. The 12V
Sync signal lets the IntelliControl know whether the component is on or off and can be
supplied by five different methods:
1. 12V DC Sync via a Wall Adapter Plugged into a Switched AC Outlet
Many preamps, integrated amps, receivers, surround-sound processors, and cable TV
descramblers have a switched AC outlet (i.e. the outlet is hot when the preamp is “on”,
and dead when the preamp is “off”) to automatically power up components with latching
power. In an IntelliControl system, the switched outlet may be expanded with an extension
cord or power strip to accommodate a 12V DC 200mA wall adapter and any “latching
power” components you may be using. The output of the wall adapter is connected to the
IntelliControl’s dedicated “Preamp 12V” sync input.
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2. Niles LS-1 Light Sensor
The Niles LS-1 Light Sensor was designed to detect a change in brightness on a
component’s front panel display. When it senses a change in brightness, the LS-1 outputs
a constant 12V DC 500mA control voltage. A blocking cover is provided to prevent
ambient light from falsely triggering the LS-1.
Note: You may choose to sync direct-view or rear-projection televisions with the LS-1 Light
Sensor. In this sync application, the LS-1’s sensor is attached to the rear of the TV using
the blocking cover (or better yet – to the flyback transformer inside the TV. The flyback
transformer resembles a automobile alternator and is located near the TV’s main power
supply and AC power cord connection). The LS-1’s sensitivity is adjusted to output a 12v
DC sync signal only when the TV is on.
Additionally, when syncing multi-disc CD changers or other digital components, it may be
possible to install the LS-1’s sensor inside the component’s optical digital output jack to
detect the presence of light coming from that port when the unit is powered on. The unit
must not emit any light from this port when the unit is in standby!
3. Niles OTI-512 Voltage Sensor
The Niles OTI-512 Voltage Sensor senses any control voltage between 3 and 30 volts AC
or DC, and outputs a 12V DC 500mA control voltage. The 12V DC output is connected to
the IntelliControl’s sync input dedicated to that component.
An accessory cable (the Niles FOS-512) will connect a Fosgate, Lexicon, Citation, or
Synthesis preamp to the OTI-512.
4. Niles APC-2 Current Sensing Switcher
The Niles APC-2 Current Sensing Switcher senses any change in power consumption
that is greater than 30 watts. When it senses that the power consumption has increased
(by the component turning on), it outputs a 12V DC 300 mA control voltage. In an
IntelliControl system, the component’s AC power plug is plugged into the unswitched
“Sensing” socket on the APC-2. The 12V DC output is connected to the IntelliControl’s
sync input dedicated to that component.
The APC-2 has several other features. For more info, please look up the APC-2 on our
website: www.nilesaudio.com
5. Niles IPC-6 Current Sensing AC Power Controller
The Niles IPC-6 Current Sensing Switch senses any change in a component’s power
consumption that is greater than 3 watts. When it senses that the power consumption has
increased, it outputs a 12V DC 300mA control voltage. In an IntelliControl system, the
component’s AC power plug is connected to the unswitched “Trigger” socket on the IPC-6.
The 12V DC output is connected to the IntelliControl’s sync input dedicated to that
component.
The IPC-6 is not a surge suppression device, but it does have several other useful
features. For more info, please look up the IPC-6 on our website: www.nilesaudio.com
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Each Sync Connection on the Main System Unit Corresponds to a Particular
Master Key on the Tabletop Remote
The labels typically represent the sources of a system. Master Keys 1 through 7 feature
both “12V” and “Video” sync capabilities, Master Key 8 features only “12V” sync, but
Master Keys 9 and 10 have no sync connections at all. For each component, you must
utilize a Master Key, which has the necessary sync capabilities. The preamp/receiver and
the television monitor do not need a Master Key assigned to them (but you may choose to
assign Master Keys to the receiver’s AM/FM tuner and the TV’s internal tuner). The TV
monitor and Preamp are system components that are needed to listen to and watch a
component. Therefore, they have been permanently assigned their own sync connections.
PRE - The surround-sound preamp/receiver for the system is assigned the “PRE 12V”
sync connector.
TV - The Television Monitor for the system is assigned to either the “TV 12V” or the “TV”
Video Sync connector. Note: The “TV” Video Sync connection method is reliable only if the
TV you are using has a “Tuner” output. Using the TV’s “Monitor” or “Video” output is not
reliable.
MASTER KEYS ONE through SEVEN - These Master Keys are assigned both “12V” and
“Video” sync connections.
LABEL EIGHT - This Master Key is assigned a “12V” sync connection only.
LABEL NINE and TEN - These Master Keys do not feature any sync connections at all.
However, these keys may be used as Master Keys if their components have “latching
power” or separate “On” and “Off” commands.
Figure 8 Master Key Sync Features
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