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SEQUENCE CONTROLLER.
The DVR includes a built-in clock/calendar and an automatic sequence controller which allows the
DVR to play pre-programmed sequences either in a fixed loop; in response to external stimuli such as
buttons, touch screens, PIR sensors etc.; or set times of day; or combinations of these.
A 'SEQUENCE BUILDER' program, running under 'Windows 98' is used to develop the sequences
and to download them into the non-volatile memory in the DVR. The DVR can then be set to run
independently of the computer and will faithfully follow its pre-programmed sequence to provide
information, entertainment or product promotion.
The DVR memory can store up to 100 separate sequences, which can be accessed via external
buttons. Each sequence consists of up to 32 steps (or commands) and can be linked to provide longer
sequences if required.
Sequence commands available for controlling the DVR include PLAY FROM (a frame time point),
WAIT UNTIL (a frame time point), PAUSE AT (a frame time point), WAIT FOR (a set number of
frames), WAIT UNTIL (a real time point) and RECORD AT (a frame time point). Also a GO
SEQUENCE (sequence number) command allows a jump to another sequence number.
When the DVR is in automatic mode, it will begin playing sequence 00 as soon as it is switched on and
completed its initialisation (a few seconds). If a simple video loop is all that is required then sequence
00 would contain commands to start at the beginning of the loop, wait until the end frame and then goto
sequence 00 again. The DVR will run constantly like this until switched off or a STOP command is
received from the remote or RS232 inputs.
The DVR also has a built-in button controller, which can read up to 8 buttons via an external 2-wire
connection. Buttons are detected by using different resistors in series with the switches. These buttons
are identified as numbers 1 - 8 and will automatically select sequences 1-8 if pressed. This allows
interactive control of up to 8 sequences without the need to purchase external peripheral units. If
required, Black Box AV can supply a circuit board with the necessary resistors and cable/connectors
to facilitate this feature.
EXTERNAL PERIPHERALS.
The DVR has an RS485 interface for connecting other BLACK BOX Director range peripherals.
These include RELAY and LOGIC controllers, MATRIX switches and TOUCH SCREEN
controllers. The peripherals are controlled whilst the DVR is under SEQUENCE operation, and the
'SEQUENCE BUILDER' programme is used to ensure the peripheral operates correctly and at the
right point in the sequence.
The RELAY controller is a 1U rack mounted case, which contains 16 relays, each of which can be
controlled via the SEQUENCE BUILDER to operate at precise frame times during the sequence.
Each RELAY controller is assigned an address, which is unique to the system, and up to 15 RELAY
controllers can be connected to the RS485 bus.
The LOGIC controller is similar to the relay controller but has logic outputs, which can be used to
operate light controllers etc. Similarly up to 15 LOGIC controllers can be connected to the system.
The MATRIX has a matrix of 64 switches each of which is assigned to a particular sequence number.
The MATRIX is used in applications that require more than the 8 built-in switches for sequence
selection.