AMX Distribution Matrix Octaire, Instruction Manual, Page: 19 / 106

Overview & General Specifications
14 Octaire Instruction Manual
External Control Options
Note: The Octaire has a fixed configuration that was set at the factory.
Octaire systems are controlled with either the control panel (page 43) or externally with one of the
following options:
NetLinx
®
The Octaire is NetLinx
®
compatible. For specific control programming information, contact your
AMX representative.
Control Software
Octaire systems can be controlled using AMX AutoPatch software:
APControl 3.0 – Control and scheduling
Uses serial port located on the primary enclosure’s far right when viewed from the rear
Runs on a PC connected to the serial port
Download* from the AMX AutoPatch CD
APWeb Server – Control, diagnostics, and third-party access
TCP/IP port located on the primary enclosure’s far right when viewed from the rear
Accessed through a TCP/IP interface such as a web browser (e.g., Internet Explorer)
Contact AMX regarding limitations and conditions for operating an Octaire on a
company LAN (Local Area Network)
* If your AMX account has the required permissions, you can download APControl from
www.amx.com .
BCS Serial Control Protocol
An Octaire system can be controlled with an external serial controller connected to the primary
enclosure. AMX AutoPatch has developed a command language, BCS* (Basic Control Structure)
protocol, for programming control operations and for diagnostic purposes.
External Serial Controllers – Control using BCS protocol
Serial Control (sends and receives ASCII characters)
Uses serial port located on the primary enclosure’s far right when viewed from the rear
Commands can be entered into a terminal emulation program on a PC connected to
the serial port (such as Windows
®
HyperTerminal)
*For information on BCS commands, see the BCS Protocol Instruction Manual on the
AMX AutoPatch CD or at www.amx.com .
Third-Party Controllers
A third-party controller can also be attached to an Octaire enclosure via the RS-232 serial port on the
primary enclosure. If using a third-party controller, see the controller documentation for operating
instructions.