Pro Control Studio Overview
Pro Control Studio is a user-friendly software for programming Pro Control systems on Windows PCs.
- It allows complete customization of the graphic user interface (GUI).
- Includes pre-defined buttons, symbols, and templates for ease of use.
- Supports infrared, RS-232, and Driver libraries for device control.
- Features an auto-programming function for quick system setup.
- Enables complex multi-step actions for each button.
Glossary of Key Terms
This section defines essential terms related to Pro Control systems and programming.
- Pro Control Devices: Handheld controllers and control processors.
- Controlled Devices: Third-party equipment like A/V receivers and cable boxes.
- Properties: Configuration settings for devices, buttons, or macros.
- Commands: Instructions sent to controlled devices via various protocols.
- Macro: A series of commands for automating system control.
- System File: Contains all programming for specific Pro Control devices.
Powering and Charging Devices
Instructions for powering and charging Pro Control handheld controllers and processors.
- Handheld controllers have a power switch located in the battery compartment.
- Pro Control processors are powered when plugged into a power supply.
- The Pro24.r controller charges via a port, while the Pro24.z can use a dock.
- Charging indicators show the status of the battery during charging.
Programming Process Overview
A step-by-step guide to programming Pro Control devices using Pro Control Studio.
- Install and open Pro Control Studio software.
- Add Pro Control and controlled devices to the system file.
- Customize properties and create pages using templates or custom designs.
- Create macros for automation and download the system file to devices.
Device Properties and Configuration
Details on adjusting properties for Pro Control devices and controlled devices.
- Properties for remotes include settings for tilt switch, beeper volume, and backlight.
- Processors have unique settings like system zone code and network configuration.
- Controlled devices can be configured for IR, RS-232, or Driver control methods.
Creating and Managing Pages
Instructions for adding and editing pages within Pro Control Studio.
- Pages can be added as blank or from templates.
- Each page can contain multiple screens for expanded functionality.
- The layout can be customized using a grid system for alignment.
Macro Creation and Management
Guidelines for creating macros to automate system functions.
- Macros can include single commands or complex sequences.
- Steps can be added, rearranged, or deleted within a macro.
- Various macro step definitions include delays, button pauses, and device commands.
Feedback and Status Monitoring
Overview of feedback options for buttons and system status.
- Button text feedback displays real-time changes like volume status.
- Button states can be reversed, inactive, or visible based on driver feedback.
- Flags can be used to track system status and simulate discrete commands.
Warranty and Support Information
Details on warranty coverage and customer support for Pro Control products.
- Warranty lasts for one year, with 90 days for battery packs.
- Coverage excludes damage from misuse, unauthorized purchases, and improper maintenance.
- Customer service and technical support are available via email and phone during business hours.
Flag Management for Device Control
The proper management of Flags is essential for the correct operation of device power states in the application.
- Flags must be Set when the device powers ON and Cleared when it powers OFF.
- The system tracks the Flag's status instead of the actual power status.
- For "Power ON" Macro: If the Flag is Set, the device remains ON; if Cleared, the device is turned ON and the Flag is Set.
- For "Power OFF" Macro: If the Flag is Set, the device is turned OFF and the Flag is Cleared; if Cleared, the device remains OFF.
Utilizing Button Variables with Flags
Button Variables enhance user feedback by indicating the current status of Flags associated with Activities.
- Activity buttons (e.g., DVD, Cable TV) reflect their current state using color-coded text (RED for Pressed, WHITE for not pressed).
- Each Activity has a designated Flag, and Button Variable Bindings correlate the Flag with the button's Reversed Variable.
- Only one Flag should be active at a time to avoid conflicts.
Variable Text Updates Based on Flags
Button Text can dynamically change to reflect the current Activity selected by the user.
- The top button on the Activity selection page updates its text to show "Now Playing:" followed by the selected Activity.
- Text Variables are added to the button text to display the current Activity based on the Flag status.
Testing Two-way Variables for Enhanced Control
Pro Control Studio allows testing of Driver Variables to create a more intelligent system.
- "System Variable Test" can be added as a Macro Step to confirm the Driver's status.
- Only Boolean (True/False) Variables can be tested, enabling conditional logic within the Macro.
IR/RF Macro for Device Control
The application allows for both IR commands from the handheld controller and processor-controlled commands in the same Macro.
- Devices requiring direct IR control are set to "Remote Control" in the properties.
- Other devices controlled by the processor are set to "Processor" in the properties.
Processor Events for Automated Control
ProLink processors can execute Macros based on various events, enhancing system automation.
- Sense Events trigger Macros based on Power Sense input changes.
- Startup Events execute a Macro upon processor power-up or reset.
- Periodic Events run specific Macros at regular intervals (1 second to 360 minutes).
Downloading Pro Control Studio Software
The process for downloading and installing Pro Control Studio is straightforward for registered dealers.
- The software is available for download from the Pro Control website after registration.
- Installation involves running the .EXE file and following prompts to complete the setup.
Learning IR Commands for Custom Devices
Pro Control Studio allows users to learn IR codes from other remote controllers for unique devices.
- An IR Command Library can be created to store learned codes.
- The learning process involves capturing IR signals from a "donor" remote and associating them with functions in the library.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Guidelines are provided for troubleshooting various issues with the remote and processor.
- Common problems include the remote not turning on, not charging, or the processor not functioning.
- Specific troubleshooting steps are outlined for each issue, including checking power connections and battery placement.
Adding Custom Color Graphics to Pro Control Studio
Users can enhance their interface by adding custom graphics in various formats.
- Supported formats include .BMP, .GIF, .PNG, .JPEG, .TIFF, and .ICO, with .PNG being preferred for transparency.
- Custom graphics can be organized into libraries for easy access within Pro Control Studio.