video switcher control via catalyst

[Johnny]

I read through the serial control section of the catalyst manual. Is this the route I should go?

thanks,
Johnny

[kiwi]

I read through the serial control section of the catalyst manual. Is this the route I should go?

thanks,
Johnny

Hi Johnny,
I've used the kramer switchers quite successfully in the past.
You control these using the video switcher section in the control window.
You need some type of serial output device -a Keyspan if you want it on USB or a netcom 111 if you need the you want to go down the IP road.

You need the appropriate serial cable to connect the switch to the output device -some require a null modem, some a straight cable it all depends on which hardware you're connecting to each other.

in catalyst assign the type of switcher and the output, then click on the destination buttons and assign an input to them. you can also now drag this into the cuelist by holding down alt (I think)

If you need anymore details or help give me a shout.

Paul

[SourceChild]

I read through the serial control section of the catalyst manual. Is this the route I should go?

Hey Johnny,

Serial is finicky because of the fact that there is no cable standard.
If you can get it working reliably in the shop, you're fine so long as you use the same cables and same configuration.
Juts don't expect to be able to change much on show site reliably unless you use cables and hardware you've already tested and know to work.
You'll end up shooting yourself in the foot if you try to change serial rates, sizes, etc. on show days in an attempt to resolve problems that are actually related to bad or incorrect cables.


(Please note edits in italics.)

[samsc]

Hey Johnny,

Serial is finicky. If you can get it working reliably in the shop, you're fine. Juts don't expect to be able to change much on show site. You'll end up shooting yourself in the foot if you try to change serial rates, sizes, etc. on show days.

you have to get it working on a site- with the cables you have-
rs232 is NOT electrically robust and electrically isolated - its suceptible to interference and grounding problems.
designed for small cable run in controlled environments.

almost always incorrect cables and incorrect pinouts -

you never change data rates.

[SourceChild]

you have to get it working on a site- with the cables you have-
rs232 is NOT electrically robust and electrically isolated - its suceptible to interference and grounding problems.
designed for small cable run in controlled environments.

almost always incorrect cables and incorrect pinouts -

you never change data rates.

I've modified my initial posts to be more informative and address these statements.