Attaching External Controllers - AMX Modula Instruction Manual

Attaching External Controllers

The Modula can be controlled by attaching an external control device that uses one of the
communication protocols listed below:
Control Options
The communication protocols listed above are used for these control options:
AMX Control Devices
The Modula is compatible with a number of AMX control devices. For control programming
information, see the instruction manual for the specific interface.
AMX AutoPatch Remote Control Panels and SBCs
AMX AutoPatch remote control panels (CP-20A, CP-10) and control devices (SBC, Preset SBC),
usually connect to the Remote port on the CPU board. For instructions for attaching an external
controller to the Remote port, see page 36. For specific information, see the product documentation.
APControl 3.0 (Serial)
APControl 3.0 software (for control and scheduling) runs on a PC connected to a Modula via a
serial port (DB-9) and is available on the AMX AutoPatch CD.
APWeb (TCP/IP)
The APWeb Server Module (used for control, diagnostics, and third-party access) is accessed through a
TCP/IP interface, such as, a web browser (e.g., Internet Explorer). For setup and operation information,
see the APWeb Server Module's documentation on the AMX AutoPatch CD and at www.amx.com.
Important: Contact AMX regarding limitations and conditions for operating a Modula on a
company LAN.
XNNet Protocol (Serial)
Advanced programmers who want to design their own control programs can use AMX AutoPatch
XNNet protocol. The AMX AutoPatch CD includes the XNNet Communication Library, an interface
library that supports C, Java, and Visual Basic and has examples of the XNNet protocol in use.
BCS (Serial) Control
AMX AutoPatch has developed a command language, BCS (Basic Control Structure), for executing
control operations and for diagnostic purposes. BCS commands are issued via a terminal emulation
program, such as Windows
Instruction Manual – BCS Basic Control Structure Protocol on the AMX AutoPatch CD or at
www.amx.com.
Third-Party Controllers (Serial)
Third-party controllers connect to a serial port (DB-9) on the CPU. If using a third-party controller,
see the controller documentation for setup and operating instructions.
Modula Instruction Manual
BCS (Serial) – ASCII sent over a null modem serial cable or RS-422 cable via the serial port
XNNet – AMX AutoPatch protocol via all ports (including serial); AMX AutoPatch control
and accessory devices usually connect via the Remote (XNNet) port
TCP/IP – Requires an external module; see the APWeb Server Module documentation
®
HyperTerminal. For information on BCS commands, see the
Installation and Setup
31