Mackie SP2400 Instruction Manual page 8

Using the RS485 Connection
Each amplifier is equipped with an RS485
connection. These connectors are linked internally,
so if both amplifiers have the same AMP ADDRESS
assignment, the Input Selection and MASTER
VOLUME buttons track each other, since they are
assigned to the same zone. One side must have
AMP ADDRESS switch #6 in the Master position
(up), and the other side in the Slave position (down).
The same thing can be accomplished between
two SP2400s by connecting the amplifiers together
with the RS485 connection. Again, be sure that
both amplifiers are assigned to the same zone
(AMP ADDRESS switches 1-5), one is configured as
Master and the other Slave, and that no other
amplifiers are connected via the RS485 port with
the same AMP ADDRESS.
In this way, you can have one Remote control
operate both amplifiers that are assigned to the
same zone.
Note: The microprocessor polls the AMP
ADDRESS switch when it initializes at power-up. If a
change is made to the AMP ADDRESS switch, turn
the SP2400 off for five seconds, then turn it back
on again for the new settings to take effect.
Using the SPLinker Sound Palette
Controller
The RS485 connection can also be used to
connect the SP2400 to a computer loaded with the
SPLinker software application. The PC-compatible
computer must have an RS485 port to properly
connect to the SP2400. It may be necessary to
install an RS485 interface card, or use an RS232
port with an RS232-to-RS485 converter.
SP2400 – 22
The SPLinker is a PC-based graphical interface to
provide real-time monitoring and control for up to 32
zones. It provides individual program source
selection and volume control for each zone. Select
boxes are located at the bottom of each zone for
selecting multiple zones. All selected zones can
then be modified at the same time in the Multiple
settings box located on the right-hand side of the
screen.
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Using a 3 Party Control System
The RS485 connection can also be used to
interface with common third-party control systems.
Contact the third-party provider or Mackie Industrial
Technical Support to determine if your control
system is compatible with the SP2400.
Upgrading the Software
From time to time, Mackie Industrial will release
upgrades for the internal operating software in the
SP2400. This can be downloaded from our website
(www.mackieindustrial.com) to a PC-compatible
computer. Use the serial port on the computer to
connect to internal connectors on the SP2400's
CPU boards to transfer the data to the on-board
flash memory. Instructions will be provided when
upgrades are available.