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Model AC1120A, AC1121A, AC1122A, AC1123A
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3.2 Control Commands (RS-232 and IP)
The matrices can be controlled via an external control system by using RS-232.
Additionally, Models AC1121A and AC1123A can be controlled through an IP
port. Any program capable of standard serial communication in ASCII format is
capable of working with the matrices. Most PCs with Microsoft Windows
operating systems have HyperTerminal™ pre installed with this capability. There
are also many free Terminal Emulator and Telnet software programs available for
download on the internet.
Note on RS-232 port availability on your PC
Most PCs and notebooks do not have a serial port. So to program the
Matrix Switch you may need a USB to RS-232 Serial converter. These
are available from Black Box (Model IC199A-R3).
Figure 12 – USB to RS-232 Adapter
Use Figure 8 to connect the unit to the PC’s serial port. Use 9600 Baud, 8 bits, No
Parity, 1 Stop bit, No flow control.
Upon power up, the matrix will output a screen similar to the figure below
through its serial port(s).
Unit's name:
Version 2.3
Build # 7
BBox-I-A-8-8
Figure 13 – Power on screen
Note on RS-232 commands
When the front panel is in use (for example to make new ties or recall presets,
etc), only status request commands are accepted. Any other command will be
prompted with the following response:
Front panel is in use<cr>
Fortunately, all front panel operations have a timeout function so even if a user
started to use the panel but forgot to finish the process, it will time out in a few
seconds and full serial port functionality will be restored.