AMX ALD-1000D, Instruction Manual

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Programming
15
ALD-D48 Network Lighting Solutions
Programming
Knowledge of the AMX NetLinx programming language is necessary to control lights with the
ALD-D48 because the only method of controlling lights is via NetLinx channels, levels, and
commands.
In the first release of the AMX ALD-D48 (firmware version 1.8 or earlier) a NetLinx software
module was required for control. This added a bit of overhead and complexity to the system but was
necessary. AMX has now simplified the programming by making the ALD-D48 a native NetLinx
device. Once properly configured it can connect to any AMX NetLinx master and show up on the
online tree in NetLinx Studio software as a device attached to that master. The device can then be
controlled by the master or controlled with diagnostics software in NetLinx Studio. It can also be
configured (IP address, gateway, etc.) via NetLinx Studio. In short, it behaves exactly like any other
NetLInx device.
Unlike the first release of the AMX ALD-D48 which limited the number of D48 devices connected
to a master to one, the latest ALD-D48 allows multiple ALD-D48's to be connected to a single
master. Since the ALD-D48 is now a NetLinx device each will have a unique device number. The
master will handle the proper routing of messages and commands to the correct ALD-D48 based on
the device number. There is no need for the NetLinx programmer to build into the program the IP
addresses of each ALD-D48. Simply communicate with it using the device number like all other
NetLinx devices.
The ALD-D48 can be set up to automatically get an IP address on startup (DHCP) or it can be
assigned a static IP. It can also be set up to automatically find the NetLinx master or it can be given
the address of the NetLinx master to which it should communicate. Once connected to a master, if
the connection is lost (master is reset, cable is disconnected, etc.) the ALD-D48 will continuously
try to re-establish a connection to a master. It will not need to be reset.
ALD-D48 Components
Component Description
AMX ALD-D48 The ALD-D48 refers to the lighting system in its entirety. This encompasses all pieces of hard-
ware required to control the lights as well as software.
ALD-D48 Processor Board The interface board that controls the ALD dimmers/switches.
AMX ALD-D48 Device Server The interface device that communicates to the ALD-D48 processor board via a serial port and to
the NetLinx master via an Ethernet port.
AMX NetLinx Master This is the system controller which handles input from user interfaces and acts on events
occurring in the system. The master interfaces with the AMX ALD-D48 Device Server to control
lights and to receive feedback on lighting status. It may also interface with other controlled
devices such as HVAC, audio, video, security, etc.
Main Program The control program running in the NetLinx master. This software will interface to the ALD-D48
device server to control lights and to receive feedback on the status of lights.