Remote Technologies RTI0100 Home Theater Universal R/C User Manual

Remote Technologies Inc Home Theater Universal R/C Users Manual

Users Manual

TheaterTouchSystem ControllerUser’s Guide and Programming ManualTThhee PPoowweerr OOff AATToouucchhssccrreeeennIInTThhePPallmOOff
TheaterTouch System ControllerFEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION NOTICEThis equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digitaldevice, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to providereasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installedand used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radiocommunications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in aparticular installation.If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which canbe determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correctthe interference by one or more of the following measures:• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which thereceiver is connected.• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following twoconditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference and (2) this device must acceptany interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.For environmental reasons, your TheaterTouch universal system controlleruses “environmentally sound” nickel-metal hydride rechargeable batteries.The batteries do not contain any poisonous heavy metals that can damagethe environment.In the interest of recycling, please do not dispose of these batteries in thehousehold waste at the end of their useful life. Instead, dispose of them atan appropiate collection site.Copyright © 2000Remote Technologies IncorporatedAll rights reserved.Part No. 70-210009-19Printed in the United States
TheaterTouch System ControllerRemote Technologies Incorporated • 7630 Executive Dr. • Eden Prairie, MN • 55344-3677 USAwww.rticorp.com • Tel: 612-937-2600 • Fax: 612-937-7527SAFETY SUGGESTIONSRead Instructions. Read all safety and operating instructions before operating the unit.Retain Instructions. Keep the safety and operating instructions for future reference.Heed Warnings. Adhere to all warnings on the unit and in the operating instructions.Follow Instructions. Follow operating instructions and instructions for use.Heat. Keep the unit away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, etc.,including amplifiers that produce heat.Power Sources. Connect the unit only to a power supply of the type described in theoperating instructions, or as marked on the unit.Power Cord Protection. Route power supply cords so that they are not likely to be walkedon or pinched by items placed on or against them, paying particular attention to the cords atplugs, at convenient receptacles, and at the point at which they exit from the unit.Nonuse Periods. Unplug the power supply from the outlet when the unit is to be left unusedfor a long period.Water and Moisture. Do not use the unit near water—for example, near a sink, in a wetbasement, near a swimming pool, near an open window, etc.Object and Liquid Entry. Do not allow objects to fall or liquids to be spilled into theenclosure through openings.Cleaning. The unit should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer.Servicing. Do not attempt any service beyond that described in the operating instructions.Refer all other service needs to qualified service personnel.Damage Requiring Service. The unit should be serviced by qualified service personnelwhen:• The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged.• Objects have fallen or liquid has been spilled into the unit.• The unit has been exposed to rain.• The unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change inperformance.• The unit has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.WARNING !TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICSHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THE UNIT TO RAIN ORMOISTURE.
TheaterTouch System ControllerVILIMITED WARRANTY AND DISCLAIMERRemote Technologies Incorporated warrants its products for a period of one (1) year fromthe date of purchase from Remote Technologies Incorporated or an authorized RemoteTechnologies Incorporated dealer.This warranty may be enforced by the original purchaser and subsequent owners during thewarranty period, so long as the original dated sales receipt or other proof of warrantycoverage is presented when warranty service is required.Except as specified below, this warranty covers all defects in material and workmanship inthis product. The following are not covered by the warranty:Damage resulting from:1. Accident, misuse, abuse, or neglect.2. Failure to follow instructions contained in your User’s Guide.3. Repair or attempted repair by anyone other than Remote TechnologiesIncorporated.4. Failure to perform recommended periodic maintenance.5. Causes other than product defects, including lack of skill, competence orexperience of user.6. Shipment of this product (claims must be made to the carrier).7. Being altered or which the serial number has been defaced, modified or removed.Remote Technologies Incorporated is not liable for any damages caused by its products orfor its failure of its products to perform, including any lost profits, lost savings, incidentaldamages, or consequential damages.Remote Technologies Incorporated is not liable for damages based upon inconvenience, lossof use of the product, loss of time, interrupted operation, commercial loss, any claim madeby a third party or made by you for a third party.Remote Technologies Incorporated’s liability for any defective product is limited to repair orreplacement of the product, at our option.If your TheaterTouch system controller needs service, please contact Remote TechnologiesIncorporated by telephone, fax or E-mail for return information (See Chapter 10). Please donot return products to Remote Technologies Incorporated without return authorization.All rights are reserved. No part of this document may be photocopied, reproduced, ortranslated without the prior written notice of Remote Technologies Incorporated.The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice. RemoteTechnologies Incorporated shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for consequentialdamages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this material.Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Other brandsand their products are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.TheaterTouch and the RTI logo are property of Remote Technologies Incorporated.
TheaterTouch System ControllerVII
TheaterTouch System ControllerVIII Table of ContentsFederal Communications Commission Notice .......................................................................IVSafety Suggestions.............................................................................................................VLimited Warranty and Disclaimer......................................................................................... VICHAPTER 1. WELCOME................................................................................................... 1Note .................................................................................................................................. 1Unpacking and Inspection.................................................................................................... 1Important ........................................................................................................................... 1Product Contents................................................................................................................2Software Requirements....................................................................................................... 2CHAPTER 2. INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................... 3Features ............................................................................................................................ 3Important Notes.................................................................................................................. 4Cleaning............................................................................................................................. 4Batteries and Charger......................................................................................................... 5Getting Started................................................................................................................... 6Remote Reference.............................................................................................................. 7The Touchscreen Display .................................................................................................... 8The Control Panel Page ...................................................................................................... 8CHAPTER 3. THEATERTOUCH DESIGNER SOFTWARE ........................................ 15Installing TheaterTouch Designer ........................................................................................15Programming Overview ......................................................................................................15TheaterTouch Designer Screen...........................................................................................16Touchscreen Grid ..............................................................................................................18Design Hints......................................................................................................................19Getting Help......................................................................................................................19CHAPTER 4. THEATERTOUCH DESIGNER BASICS.................................................. 21How to Add a Page............................................................................................................21How to Delete a Page........................................................................................................21How to Add Buttons...........................................................................................................22How to Delete Buttons .......................................................................................................22How to Add Text to Buttons................................................................................................23How to Place a Bitmap.......................................................................................................24How to Link Pages.............................................................................................................25How to Remove Page Links................................................................................................26How to Add Commands to Buttons......................................................................................26How to Delete Commands from Buttons ..............................................................................28How to Save a File.............................................................................................................28How to Open an Existing File..............................................................................................28How to Preview your File....................................................................................................29How to Setup Communications............................................................................................30How to Send a File to the TheaterTouch..............................................................................31
TheaterTouch System ControllerIXCHAPTER 5. THEATERTOUCH DESIGNER ADVANCED FEATURES...................... 33How to Rename a Page .....................................................................................................33How to Duplicate a Page....................................................................................................33How to Merge Pages .........................................................................................................34How to Use the PageWizard...............................................................................................35How to Change Button Styles .............................................................................................35How to Select Buttons........................................................................................................36How to Cut or Copy Buttons ...............................................................................................36How to Paste Buttons ........................................................................................................36How to Move a Button........................................................................................................37How to Resize a Button......................................................................................................37How to Place a Custom Button...........................................................................................37How to Use the Macro Editor..............................................................................................38How to Delete a Macro ......................................................................................................43How to Edit an IR Command in a Macro..............................................................................44How to Use the Channel Macro Wizard................................................................................47How to Edit the Remote Properties.....................................................................................50How to Edit Button Properties.............................................................................................54How to Edit the Properties of Multiple Buttons......................................................................59How to Print Screenshots...................................................................................................62How to Print System Configuration Reports .........................................................................62How to Check Memory Usage ............................................................................................63How to Create a “Self-Downloading .EXE”...........................................................................64How to Use the “Send” Command.......................................................................................64CHAPTER 6. IR LIBRARY MANAGER............................................................................ 65Infrared Codes ..................................................................................................................65How the TheaterTouch Learns IR Codes.............................................................................66Hints for Learning IR Codes................................................................................................67How to Open the IR Library Manager..................................................................................68How to Create a New IR Library.........................................................................................68How to Open an Existing IR Library.....................................................................................70How to Add a New Remote to an IR Library ........................................................................71How to Use the New Remote Wizard...................................................................................72How to Align a Donor Remote Control.................................................................................73How to Capture Infrared Commands ...................................................................................75How to Test Infrared Commands ........................................................................................77How to Edit Infrared Commands .........................................................................................78CHAPTER 7. IMAGE EDITORS....................................................................................... 81The Difference Between Custom Buttons and Bitmaps..........................................................81Button Bitmap Editor Screen...............................................................................................82Custom Button Editor Screen..............................................................................................82Toolbar.............................................................................................................................83Tool Palette.......................................................................................................................87Up Image-Down Image Tool (Custom Button Editor Only):....................................................90New Bitmap Size Dialog Box (Button Bitmap Editor Only):.....................................................92CHAPTER 8. TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................................................. 93Display is Dim, Blank or Unreadable....................................................................................93Communication Problems ...................................................................................................93
TheaterTouch System ControllerXInfrared Problems..............................................................................................................95Unable to Learn Commands................................................................................................96Macro Problems................................................................................................................96CHAPTER 9. SERVICE AND SUPPORT........................................................................ 97Updates and New Products ................................................................................................97Contacting Remote Technologies Incorporated ....................................................................97RTI Technical Support........................................................................................................97Shipment of Remote for Service..........................................................................................99SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................................... 100APPENDIX ...................................................................................................................... 102Software License Agreement............................................................................................102Software License.............................................................................................................102
Chapter 1 • Welcome1Chapter 1. WelcomeCongratulations on your purchase of the TheaterTouch universal system controller.The TheaterTouch combines the power and flexibility of a graphic LCD touchscreenwith an ergonomic design that permits effortless one-handed operation. This designovercomes the need for compromise between form and function. Sleek and perfectlybalanced, the TheaterTouch is infinitely flexible and expandable.TheaterTouch takes complete control of the home theater, replacing all other remotes.It features an intuitive, easy to read LCD that can display custom buttons, text,graphics and symbols. In addition to the backlit display, 25 “Hard” keypad buttonsallow easy access to frequently used functions.Programming is easy and convenient thanks to the built-in infrared learning abilityand the Windows® based software. TheaterTouch is capable of both infrared and radiofrequency output. A separate RF to IR converter is available for transmission throughwalls and cabinets. The converter will also monitor the power status of most A/Vequipment thru the use of voltage and video sensors.NOTE The TheaterTouch and TheaterTouch Designer software are compatible with infrared(IR) commands with carrier frequencies between 15kHz and 460kHz, as well as thosecommands that do not use a carrier. This covers the vast majority of remotesavailable to date, including Bang & Olufsen® (most of which use 455kHz) andVidikron® (some of which use 333kHz).Despite every effort to make the TheaterTouch universal system controller work withall IR-systems, some IR-controlled products are unable to be learned by theTheaterTouch due to incompatible frequencies or non-standard IR formats. TheTheaterTouch cannot learn non-IR formats such as RF and ultrasonic.UNPACKING AND INSPECTIONAfter unpacking your new TheaterTouch universal system controller, save all of thepacking materials in case you ever have to ship the unit.Thoroughly inspect the TheaterTouch and packing materials for signs of damage.Report any damage to the carrier immediately. Report any equipment malfunctionsto Remote Technologies Incorporated or an authorized Remote TechnologiesIncorporated dealer.IMPORTANTAfter unpacking your new TheaterTouch universal system controller for the first time,charge each battery pack for at least 12 hours.
TheaterTouch System Controller2PRODUCT CONTENTSContents within the box include the following items:• Owner’s Manual• Warranty and Registration card• TheaterTouch™ System Controller• Two (2) rechargeable Nickel Metal-Hydride battery packs• Smart battery charger• Wall-mount power supply for battery charger• TheaterTouch Designer™ software CD-ROM• Serial cable for programmingSOFTWARE REQUIREMENTSTheaterTouch Designer software minimum system requirements:• Windows 95, Windows 98,Windows NT 4.0 or higher operatingsystem• IBM or compatible PC with 486DX2/66Mhz or higherprocessor• 16 Megabytes (MB) of RAM• 8 Megabytes of free disk space for minimum installation(16 MB recommended)• A mouse is required• VGA monitor (256 color Super VGA recommended)• CD-ROM drive• Open RS-232 serial port• Optional printer for printing setup reports
Chapter 2 • Introduction3Chapter 2. IntroductionThe TheaterTouch is a programmable touchscreen computer that is designed toprovide wireless control of audio/video and automation systems. Like other“universal” or “learning” remote controls, the TheaterTouch allows you to consolidatethe functions of many independent infrared remote controls into one unit. TheTheaterTouch also incorporates a unique programmable user interface, allowing it toprovide a simple, intuitive, and customized interface for any system. Before using theTheaterTouch, please read and follow all instructions in this manual.FEATURESThe TheaterTouch provides superior quality and reliability as well as these specificfeatures:• A replacement for all of your system’s remote controls. The TheaterTouch canreproduce all of the commands of almost any other infrared remote control.• A programmable graphic display. The TheaterTouch uses powerful Windowsbased software that makes it easy to place buttons, text, graphics and symbolsanywhere on the display.• A backlit LCD with digital matrix touchscreen. When you want to perform acommand, simply touch the display where that command is displayed. Thetouchscreen never needs calibrating.• 25 backlit “hard” keypad buttons that allow easy access to frequently usedfunctions.• Two detachable, low-profile rechargeable battery packs. The TheaterTouch canrun continuously for several hours between charges. Because the remote isnormally used only a few minutes per session, the unit typically will run for aweek or more between charges. A built-in low battery indicator warns youwhen it’s time to recharge the battery.• A macro function. This feature allows the TheaterTouch to perform a series ofcommands by pressing a single button. For example, you can create a macrocalled “Movie” that turns on the TV, sets the correct channel, turns on theVCR, dims the lights, and starts playing a movie.• Two output options for controlling your equipment: infrared (IR), radiofrequency (RF), and the ability to use both in the same system.• Automatic power on and off. The TheaterTouch turns itself off whenever it isnot used for a pre-set amount of time. Touching any area of the display or ahard button will turn it on again, also a built in tilt sensor can turn the unit onwhen it is picked up.
TheaterTouch System Controller4• A serial port for communication with the TheaterTouch Designer programmingsoftware.• Non-volatile flash memory. The TheaterTouch will not lose any programmeddata when the batteries are exchanged.• One-year parts and labor warranty.IMPORTANT NOTESPlease read these important notes about the TheaterTouch:• The TheaterTouch should be placed in an area where it is around normal roomtemperature (between 60°F to 90°F). If the temperature is too hot, the displayappears dim. If the temperature is too cold, the display appears dark and mayrespond slowly.• Do not use sharp objects on the touchscreen. It is designed to operate with atouch of your finger.• Do not let the TheaterTouch get wet. It should not be handled with wet handsor placed in an area where it could get wet.• Do not subject the TheaterTouch to smoke, dust, or vibrations. The display maybe damaged from excessive shock or vibration.• Use only the power supply that is provided with the TheaterTouch. Using thewrong type of power supply may result in battery leakage or other damage.• Do not disassemble the unit. The TheaterTouch contains high voltage circuitsthat may cause injury if contacted.CLEANINGOccasional cleaning may be required, depending on use.To clean your TheaterTouch:1. Remove the battery pack from the TheaterTouch.2. Lightly dampen a lint-free cloth with water or mild detergent and wipe thetouchscreen, keypad and outer surfaces.
Chapter 2 • Introduction5BATTERIES AND CHARGERThe following recommendations will assure the best battery performance.1. Operate the unit until you receive a Low Battery warning in the upper lefthand corner of display. 2. At that point, you will have approximately 10 - 20 minutes of run timeremaining before the unit shuts down. At any point after the Low Batteryicon appears, you can exchange the depleted battery with a chargedbattery from the charger. If you operate the battery past a usable level,you will receive a warning stating Battery must be recharged. Recharge the TheaterTouch batteries for about 3-4 hours. (The light on the batterycharger will stop flashing and stay on when the charge cycle is completed).The batteries can remain in the charger indefinitely without damage to the batteries. Charging StatusLight (1)(2)
TheaterTouch System Controller6Custom Installation Note:The TheaterTouch battery charger’s power can be hardwired through the back of the chargerfor permanent mounting on a wall or other flat surface. This is done by removing thebottom plate of the charger and hard wiring the wall mount power supply directly to theterminal strip. Replace the bottom plate before mounting.Use only the original power supply. J2Power Connection - (J2)9VDC 0.5ABattery Charger with bottom plate removed.GETTING STARTEDStart by snapping a fully charged battery on the back of the TheaterTouch. This is done byinserting the end of the battery with the contacts in first, and then gently pushing the endwith the clip until it snaps into place. (1)(2)The TheaterTouch is powered-up by touching any area of the display or any keypad button aswell as picking up the unit if the tilt sensor is active.Warning! Watch the polarity.
Chapter 2 • Introduction7REMOTE REFERENCE Transmitting andLearning WindowTouchscreenBacklight KeyProgrammableKeypad ButtonsPWR MUTE12 345678 90ENTERSELECTCHANVOLEXITGUIDEMAIN MENUTransmitting andLearning WindowSerialPortRechargeableBattery PackFrontBack(Glows in the Dark)
TheaterTouch System Controller8THE TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAYThe TheaterTouch touchscreen display is organized as a series of pages and frames. Apage can consist of up to 12 frames of information having one frame displayed on thescreen at a time.Normally each frame on a page contains objects (buttons, text, graphics, and symbols)that are related in some way. For instance, they may all display informationnecessary for controlling a particular VCR.By default, the TheaterTouch has one Main Menu page—all other pages areconsidered submenus. Any page can contain a button that will display any otherpage when selected.Normally the Main Menu page is used to display the names of the submenus (e.g.,the equipment being controlled). The submenus may consist of one or more pages.The TheaterTouch will support 63 pages plus the Main Menu page; each page canconsist of up to 12 frames.A representation of a programmed Main Menu page is shown below. Pressing the Main Menu key at any time will return you to this page (unless adifferent page is assigned using the TheaterTouch Designer software).THE CONTROL PANEL PAGEThe Control Panel page can be displayed by pressing the backlight key for at least 3seconds.You can also access the Control Panel page by assigning a “Control Panel” page linkto a button using the TheaterTouch Designer software.
Chapter 2 • Introduction9The Control Panel consists of the following three frames: To change frames, press the frame Left or frame Right buttons onthe bottom of the touchscreen.To return to your TheaterTouch program, press the Main Manu key.ADJUST CONTRASTThis button displays a window that allows you to adjust the LCD contrast.Press the Left Arrow or Right Arrow keypad buttons to adjust. Press the OKbutton in the window to close.
TheaterTouch System Controller10BEEPERThis button displays a window that allows you to turn the audible beep on oroff. The beeper provides feedback that a button was pressed. Press the OKbutton in the window to close. TIME OUTThis button displays a window that allows you to adjust the amount of timethe unit stays awake after the last button press. The time is variable from 1second to 60 seconds (default is 10 seconds). Press the arrows to the left orright of the Time Out setting to adjust the time. Press the OK button in thewindow to close. During Sleep mode, the TheaterTouch uses virtually nobattery power.
Chapter 2 • Introduction11TILT SWITCHThis button displays a window that allows you to adjust the settings for thebuilt in tilt switch, which is a device that turns the remote on when tiltedpassed a 45 degree angle.On means the tilt switch is active and will turn on display and backlight whenpicked up.Off means the tilt switch is inactive.Press the OK button in the window to close. PROGRAM LOCKOUTThis button displays a window that allows you to turn the program lockoutfeature on and off. This is used to lockout un-authorized users from theComputer Link mode, so that the program cannot be altered.If the Lockout feature is enabled, you will need to enter the current passcodebefore you can change this setting.On means the Computer Link mode is locked and can only be accessed withthe passcode.Off means the Computer Link mode is unlocked and can be accessed withouta passcode.Press the OK button in the window to close.
TheaterTouch System Controller12CHANGE PASSCODEThis button displays a window that allows you to set the passcode that is usedto limit access to the Computer Link mode and Clear All function on thecontrol panel page, as well as the Button Lockout function that is available onall buttons.When you press the Change Passcode button, the screen will prompt you toenter the old passcode using the hard keys, then press the Enter key on thekeypad.(The default code is 0000).Now enter a new four-digit passcode, then press Enter.You will be prompted to enter the new four-digit passcode again forconfirmation, then press Enter. When new code is entered successfully, the Code Changed windowwill pop up to let you know you have changed the passcode. Do not forget the passcode!
Chapter 2 • Introduction13COMPUTER LINKThis button displays a window that allows you to put the TheaterTouch intoComputer Link mode.This is used for RS-232 communications between a personal computer and theTheaterTouch for loading a program into the TheaterTouch or extracting aprogram from the TheaterTouch.The two options available for the transfer of a program in the TheaterTouchDesigner software are:♦ Send File to Remote, which sends the new program from the softwareto the remote, overwriting the existing program.♦ Receive File from Remote, which extracts a copy of the program fromthe remote to the software, leaving the program in the remote intact.Press the OK button to close the window after the transfer is complete.
TheaterTouch System Controller14IR CAPTUREThis button displays a window that allows the TheaterTouch to align, learn,and test infrared commands from donor remotes. Used together with theTheaterTouch Designer Infrared Library Manager software you can create acustom database of infrared commands.The use of the IR Capture command is described in chapter 6 “IR LibraryManager”.To exit IR CAPTURE mode, press the Main Menu button on the remote.CLEAR ALLThis button displays a window that will allow you to erase the currentprogram in the TheaterTouch remote. When the button is pressed, you will beprompted to enter the current passcode. If the proper code is entered, theentire program in the TheaterTouch will be erased. WARNINGThis will erase the complete program in the TheaterTouch with no way torestore it, except by reloading the program from the TheaterTouch Designersoftware!If you inadvertently press the CLEAR ALL button, simply press the ENTERbutton without entering the passcode and you will be returned to the ControlPanel page.
Chapter 3 • TheaterTouch Designer Software15Chapter 3. TheaterTouch Designer SoftwareTheaterTouch Designer allows you to create the entire graphical interface for a RTITheaterTouch System Controller on your computer. Once the interface has beencreated, it is downloaded to the TheaterTouch using the included programming cable.Existing programming can also be extracted, modified, and re-sent to anyTheaterTouch system controller.Software updates will be available for download at www.rticorp.comINSTALLING THEATERTOUCH DESIGNER1. Close any open programs.2. Place the TheaterTouch Designer compact disc into the CD- ROM drive.3. If the installation doesn’t appear automatically, click Start and chooseRun, type d:\setup\setup.exe (For d, type the letter for your CD-ROMdrive). Click OK.4. Follow the on-screen instructions.PROGRAMMING OVERVIEWHere is an overview of the process of programming a TheaterTouch from scratch.Instructions on carrying out these tasks can be found in chapters 4 and 5. 1. Create a new page and add buttons for each source component in asystem.2. Place a button on the main menu to access each one of the sourcecomponents.3. Use the Assign Page tool to link the buttons on the main menu to theirrespective source component pages.4. Assign infrared codes and other commands to buttons using theCommand Library.5. Create macros using the macro editor (if needed).6. Check the Remote Properties.7. Save the file.8. Send the file to the TheaterTouch using the communications commands.
TheaterTouch System Controller16THEATERTOUCH DESIGNER SCREENMenu BarToolbar Page List Touchscreengrid Design Window
Chapter 3 • TheaterTouch Designer Software17Frame Left andRight arrows
TheaterTouch System Controller18TOUCHSCREEN GRIDThe touchscreen grid is where the buttons, text, graphics and symbols are placed.Click on the frame Left or frame Right buttons at the bottom of thetouchscreen grid to place buttons on other frames. Tool Palette Keypad Buttons
Chapter 3 • TheaterTouch Designer Software19 DESIGN HINTS1. Be consistent with the location of similar buttons. For example, if youhave a DVD player and a VCR in your system, try to make the transportcontrols (Play, Pause, Stop, etc.) on both pages look similar.2. It’s not necessary to re-create each donor remote in its entirety on theTheaterTouch. Think of the functions the user will be using daily.3. Use macros to hide complex command sequences from the user. Forexample, instead of presenting the user with only the key pad forchanging channels on their TV, make a set of macros for CBS, HBO, etc.that send the proper channel numbers automatically. The Channel MacroWizard makes it easy to create this type of macro.GETTING HELPTheaterTouch Designer includes an extensive on-line help system. If you need helpwith any tool or command, click the What’s this? button on the Toolbar.If you need an explanation of any item in a dialog box, click the Help button inthe dialog’s title bar, and then click on the control you would like to learn about.
TheaterTouch System Controller20
Chapter 4 • TheaterTouch Designer Basics21Chapter 4. TheaterTouch Designer BasicsThe TheaterTouch system controller is divided into two sections: the touchscreen andthe keypad. You can assign commands, macros and page links to any button youcreate on the touchscreen or on the keypad buttons.The keypad button layout of the TheaterTouch follows the pages, not the frames, so all12 frames of a page will have the same commands, macros and page links on thekeypad buttons. Each frame of the touchscreen can have different commands, macrosand page links.PAGESThe individual screens on the TheaterTouch system controller are called pages. Pageson the touchscreen can contain buttons, links to other pages, a title, text, commands,and macros.The page links, commands and macros associated with the keypad buttons on theTheaterTouch are also stored with each page.Each page can have up to 12 frames on the touchscreen, and usually has the controlsfor just one component. Each frame is accessed by scrolling left and right with thearrows at the bottom of the TheaterTouch touchscreen. With TheaterTouch Designer,you can add and delete pages, duplicate pages, etc.All TheaterTouch pages have a page title. The page title is the name that appears inthe title bar above the Touchscreen grid and in the Page List.HOW TO ADD A PAGE1. Click the Create New Page Command on the Toolbar.2. Enter a name for the page in the New Page Title dialog, this is usually thename of the component, such as: CD, Satellite, Lights and so on.3. Click OK.Repeat this procedure for each page you wish to add.HOW TO DELETE A PAGE1. Select the page to be deleted from the Page List.2. Click the Delete Current Page Command on the Toolbar.3. Click Yes in the Delete Page confirmation box.
TheaterTouch System Controller22BUTTONSButtons are the functional elements of the TheaterTouch system controller. Eachbutton can be associated with commands, macros, and page links. Creating buttons inthe touchscreen grid consists of making the button itself and then adding text,bitmaps, or symbols to them.HOW TO ADD BUTTONS1. Select a page from the Page List, and then the frame on that page with theframe left and right arrows on the bottom of the touchscreen grid.2. Select the style of button from the button drawing tools on the left side ofthe Tool Palette.3. Place the mouse cursor over the cell in the touchscreen grid where onecorner of the button will be.4. Click and hold the left mouse button and drag the mouse to the oppositecorner of where the button will be.5. Release the left mouse button when the button has the desired shape andsize.Repeat this procedure for each button you wish to add.HOW TO DELETE BUTTONS1. Select the Delete Button tool from the Tool Palette.2. Place the mouse cursor over the button to delete.3. Click the left mouse button.
Chapter 4 • TheaterTouch Designer Basics23HOW TO ADD TEXT TO BUTTONS1. Select the Edit Text tool from the Tool Palette.2. Place the mouse cursor over the button you want to add or edit text on.3. Click the left mouse button.4. Enter the text in the Edit Button Text dialog and click OK.You can use any of the options in the Edit Button Text dialog to customize thebutton. Make the text bold. Justify the text to left side of the button. Center the text horizontally in the button. Justify the text to the right side of the button. Shift the text to the top of the button. Center the text vertically in the button. Shift the text to the bottom of the button. Enable the auto-complete feature, which will automatically finish typingthe name for commonly used buttons.Click on any of the symbols at the bottom the dialog box to insert them into the activeline.
TheaterTouch System Controller24HOW TO PLACE A BITMAPThe Bitmap Library window allows you to assign bitmaps to buttons in your file or tocreate new bitmap buttons by dragging the bitmaps from the Bitmap Library to theTouchscreen grid. Hold the mouse over any bitmap in the Bitmap Library window tosee its title and the Bitmap Library it is stored in.If you drop the bitmap onto an empty section of the Touchscreen grid, a new buttonis automatically created with the default style, and the bitmap is placed on thatbutton.If you drop the bitmap onto an existing button, any text or bitmap already on thatbutton is replaced with the bitmap that you drop.1. Select the Place Bitmap tool on the Tool Palette.2. When the Bitmap Library window appears, drag any bitmap from theBitmap Library onto the Touchscreen grid.
Chapter 4 • TheaterTouch Designer Basics25HOW TO LINK PAGESThe TheaterTouch Designer software gives you the ability to link pages. When a buttonwith a page link is pushed on the TheaterTouch, the linked page becomes active, inessence turning the page.Page links are indicated by a small green box containing the number of the linked-topage in the lower left corner of the button.1. Select the Assign Pages tool from the Tool Palette.2. Place the mouse cursor over the button to which you wish to assign apage.3. Click the left mouse button.4. Select the page name you wish to link to from the pop-up menu. 5. Notice the green square in the lower left corner of the button correspondsto the linked page in the list.Two additional options are available for linking:♦ <previous> will take you back to the last page that was displayed.♦ <control panel> will switch to the built-in Control Panel page.
TheaterTouch System Controller26HOW TO REMOVE PAGE LINKS1. Select the Assign Pages tool from the Tool Palette.2. Place the mouse cursor over the button from which you wish to removethe page link.3. Click the left mouse button.4. Select the <none> item from the bottom of the pop-up menu.HOW TO ADD COMMANDS TO BUTTONSIR commands are indicated by a small red box with the letter ‘C’ in the upper rightcorner of buttons.1. Select the Command Library tool from the Tool Palette.2. Click the Select New Remote button in the Command Library window toselect a different remote than displayed.
Chapter 4 • TheaterTouch Designer Basics27Remotes are listed by manufacturer, type, and model in the Select Remote fromLibrary window; use this to select the remote you would like to assign codes from.Remotes that have already been used in the current remote file will be moved to thetop of the list and their icon will turn red for easy identification.3. If the remote is in a different library or no library is open, click on theOpen Library command button to find the library you are looking for.4. Click on the remote you would like to assign codes from and theCommand Library will open again.5. Place the mouse cursor over the function in the Command Library thatyou want to assign.6. Click and hold the left mouse button.7. Drag the mouse cursor to the button on which you want to place thecommand.8. Release the left mouse button.If you drag a command to a spot on the touchscreen grid where there are no buttons,TheaterTouch Designer will automatically create a button and insert the text for thatcommand.
TheaterTouch System Controller28HOW TO DELETE COMMANDS FROM BUTTONS1. Select the Delete Command tool from the Tool Palette.2. Place the mouse cursor over the button with the command you wish todelete.3. Click the left mouse button.HOW TO SAVE A FILEThe files created with TheaterTouch Designer hold all the elements that make up anindividual remote file. They have the extension .rti and may be stored in anydirectory.Default directory is: [C:\Program Files\TheaterTouch Designer\My Remotes]Note: If a file already exists on the disk, the current copy is backed up in a filewith the extension .rtb and the new file is saved with the .rti extension.1. Click the Save File Command on the Toolbar.2. Specify the name and directory for the file when saving for the first timeand click Save.HOW TO OPEN AN EXISTING FILE1. Click the Open File Command from the Toolbar.2. Click on the file you wish to open.3. Click Open.
Chapter 4 • TheaterTouch Designer Basics29HOW TO PREVIEW YOUR FILEThe Preview mode in TheaterTouch Designer allows you to see exactly what your filewill look like when it is sent to the TheaterTouch remote.Click the Preview Mode Command from the Toolbar.Use the mouse to press the buttons in the preview window. The buttons willpush-in just like they would on the TheaterTouch, and if they are linked to anotherpage, the linked page will become the current page in the Preview Window.Click the Preview Mode Command from the Toolbar again when you arefinished testing your file.
TheaterTouch System Controller30HOW TO SETUP COMMUNICATIONSThe Communications Setup dialog box is for setting up communications between theTheaterTouch and your PC.To open the Communications Setup dialog box:Choose Set COM Port from the Options menu.Com Port group box - Choose the COM Port that the TheaterTouch is connectedto.Auto Detect - Click this button to have TheaterTouch Designer attempt toautomatically locate the correct COM port. The TheaterTouch must be connectedto the computer with the programming cable and in Computer Link mode.Maximum Comm Speed - Choose a lower speed from this list if you are havingproblems communicating with the TheaterTouch system controller. The default isHigh.
Chapter 4 • TheaterTouch Designer Basics31HOW TO SEND A FILE TO THE THEATERTOUCH1. Click the Communications Command on the Toolbar.2. Choose Send File.All buttons, commands, bitmaps, and macros are sent. Any existing program inthe TheaterTouch is replaced with the file you send.All communications take place on the COM port selected with the Set COM Portcommand from the Options menu.
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Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features33Chapter 5. TheaterTouch Designer Advanced FeaturesHOW TO RENAME A PAGE1. Make sure the desired page is displayed in the touchscreen grid.2. Select the Edit Text tool from the Tool Palette.3. Place the cursor over the page title area at the top of the touchscreen gridand click the left mouse button.4. Specify the new page title and click OK.HOW TO DUPLICATE A PAGEPages can be instantly duplicated. This is useful when pages share common buttonslike channel macros or transport controls. One page can be created with thesebuttons and duplicated as many times as needed.1. Make sure the desired page to be duplicated is displayed in thetouchscreen grid.2. Click the Duplicate Page Command on the Toolbar.3. Give the new page a different name and click OK.The new page appears at the end of the page list.
TheaterTouch System Controller34HOW TO MERGE PAGESThe Merge Pages dialog makes it possible to move groups of pages from another .rtifile to the current remote file.1. Click the Merge Pages tool on the Toolbar.2. Select the remote file from which you wish to merge pages from. Choosefrom the list located in the Select file to merge from dialog box and clickOpen.3. Place a check next to each page you would like to merge into the currentfile.4. You can click the frame left and frame right arrows to see the individualframes on a page.5. When finished selecting pages, click OK.All of the marked pages in the list are placed at the end of the current file.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features35HOW TO USE THE PAGEWIZARDTheaterTouch Designer comes with a library of pre-built pages for many common typesof equipment that you can insert into your file and customize as desired. The pagelibrary is accessed through the PageWizard tool.To add a pre-built page to your file:1. Click the Page Wizard Command on the Toolbar.2. Scroll through the list of available pages and select the one you want. Youcan use the Next Page and Prev Page buttons to see previews of all thepages if there are more than one.3. Click the Insert button to add the page(s) to your file.4. Click the Close button to close the dialog box.The new page(s) appear at the end of the page list.Use the editing tools to customize the button style to fit the rest of your file and toplace commands, page links and macros on the buttons.HOW TO CHANGE BUTTON STYLES1. Select the style of button from the Tool Palette.2. Place the mouse cursor over the button you wish to change.3. Click the left mouse button.
TheaterTouch System Controller36HOW TO SELECT BUTTONSThe Select Button tool is used to select buttons for cutting, copying, moving,resizing, or property editing. When buttons are selected, they are painted in red.To select a single button or a group of buttons next to each other:1. Click the Select Button tool on the Tool Palette.2. Place the mouse over one corner of the button(s) and click the left mousebutton.3. Draw a rectangle around the buttons you wish to select in the designwindow (either in the touchscreen area or the keypad buttons).To select multiple buttons at one time that are not next to each other:1. Click the Select Button tool on the Tool Palette.2. Hold down the Ctrl key on your keyboard.3. Click the buttons you wish to select (either in the touchscreen area or thekeypad buttons).Note: Many TheaterTouch Designer commands can be used on selections as well asindividual buttons. Click the right mouse button on a selection for a list of availablecommands.HOW TO CUT OR COPY BUTTONS1. Use the Select Button tool from the Tool Palette to select thebutton(s).2. Choose either the Cut Command or the Copy Command fromthe toolbar.3. The button(s) are now on the clipboard.HOW TO PASTE BUTTONS1. Select the page you want to paste the button(s) on from the page list.2. Choose the Paste Command from the Toolbar.3. Drag the button(s) to the proper place on the page.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features37HOW TO MOVE A BUTTON1. Use the Select Button tool from the Tool Palette, to select thebutton(s).2. Hold down the left mouse button to drag the selection to a new location.3. Release the left mouse button to place the buttons.HOW TO RESIZE A BUTTONExisting buttons on the touchscreen grid may be re-sized using TheaterTouch Designer.The text on a button may be clipped if the size is reduced, but any associatedcommand or macro will not be lost.1. Use the Select Button tool from the Tool Palette to select the button.Note that to resize a button, only one button can be selected. If theselection can be resized, small boxes will appear in the red border on allfour sides.2. Position the mouse over the edge of the button that you would like toresize.3. Click the left mouse button.4. Drag the mouse to change the size.5. Release the mouse button when you have the desired size.HOW TO PLACE A CUSTOM BUTTONThe Custom Button Library Browser allows you to select and place Custom Buttonsonto the Touchscreen grid.1. Select the Place Custom Button tool from the Tool Palette.2. Select the library in which the custom button you want is located byclicking the Open Library button, selecting the library and clicking Open.Default directory is: [C:\Program Files\TheaterTouch Designer\Custom Buttons]3. Click on a button name and a preview of the button will appear in theCustom Button Library Browser.4. Click OK to insert the custom button on the Touchscreen grid and closethe Custom Button Library Browser.5. Drag the custom button to the proper place on the page.
TheaterTouch System Controller38HOW TO USE THE MACRO EDITORMacros are a sequence of commands placed on any single button. Macros are placedby using the Edit Macro application found on the Tool Palette.Buttons with macros can be moved, cut, copied, and pasted to other pages withoutdiscarding the codes attached to them.Macros are indicated by a small black box with the letter ‘M’ in the upper left cornerof buttons.EDITING MACROSTo add a new macro or edit an existing macro on a button:1. Select the Edit Macro tool from the Tool Palette.2. Click the button to which you would like to add a new macro or edit anexisting macro.3. Use the tools in the Macro Editor window to add, insert, and deletecommands.4. Click OK in the Macro Editor window to save changes to the macro, orclick Cancel to discard them.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features39Report command – The Report command button at the bottom of the macro editoropens up your default web browser for viewing and printing of the open macro.Trash Can – The Trash Can located at the bottom of the macro editor is used todelete commands from a macro. Left click and hold the command you want to deleteand drag it to the Trash Can and release.The Infrared from Library macro step type causes the macro tooutput an Infrared command. Any number of Infrared commands can be added tothe macro by selecting the proper library and then dragging the desired function(s)from the list on the right side to the macro display on the left side of the MacroEditor.If you do not have access to the Command Library with the desired function, but it isassigned to a button in the current file, use the Infrared from Page step type to add itto the macro.The Infrared from Page macro step type causes the macro tooutput an Infrared command. The command is taken from a button in the currentfile. Select the page containing the desired code, and then drag the code from theAvailable Buttons list on the right to the macro display on the left.This should be used for maintaining files for which the Command Library is notavailable. If the desired command is in a Command Library, use the Infrared fromLibrary step type.The Time Delay step causes the macro to pause for the timespecified by the Delay Time spin box. The time can be adjusted from 0.1 to 9.9
TheaterTouch System Controller40seconds. After you have set your desired delay time, drag the Time Delay icon fromthe right to the macro display on the left.Release the mouse button at the location where you would like to add the time delaystep.The Button Test step causes the macro to execute the followingsteps ONLY IF the button that the macro is attached to is Held Down for a specifiedamount of time or Double-Clicked within a specified amount of time, depending onthe option selected.The Button Test steps are conditional statements or “Else” commands meaning that ifthe condition is met the first command will be sent and if the condition is not met thesecond command will be sent. Held Down - In the example above, if the button is held down for 0.3 seconds, theON command will execute. If the button is not held down for 0.3 seconds, thecommand will not execute.This can be used to make a source button that switches pages if pressed briefly, orswitches pages and turns equipment on if held down for the specified amount oftime. This can also be used to send a command when pressed briefly, or send adifferent command when held down.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features41Double-Clicked – In the example above, if the button is double-clicked within 0.3seconds, the ON command will execute. If the button is not double-clicked within 0.3seconds, the command will not execute.This can be used to make a source button that switches pages if pressed once, orswitches pages and turns equipment on if double-clicked within the specified amountof time. This can also be used to send a command when pressed once, or send adifferent command when double-clicked.
TheaterTouch System Controller42Button Pause – The Button Pause step causes the macro to stopexecuting until the button it is attached to is released.In the example above, if you press and hold the button that the macro is attached to,the macro will execute the first command and pause until the button is released, thenexecute the rest of the commands in the macro. This works well for commands likeScan on some VCR’s and DVD players, which you need to send the play command tostop the scan function.Stop Macro - The Stop Macro step causes the macro to stopexecuting at the point where it is inserted.Macros automatically stop when they reach the end, so you should not normallyneed to insert a Stop Macro step. It is intended for use in conjunction with theButton Test step, where you can have the macro stop if a condition is met.Toggle IR Code - The Toggle IR Code step causes the macro toalternate between two different IR codes every other time the button is pressed.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features43In the example above, each time the button that the macro is attached to is pressed,the commands alternate. The initial button press executes the A command and thesecond button press executes the B command.If you have equipment that uses toggle codes, you must learn each code twice, andthen place the two codes within the Toggle IR Code step. Every time the macro isrun, it will send out only one of the two codes inside of the Toggle IR Code step,switching back and forth each time the button is pressed.The Toggle IR Code command is an advanced feature. If you have trouble with thisfeature, contact Technical Support for help.HOW TO DELETE A MACROTo delete a macro from a button:1. Select the Delete Macro tool from the Tool Palette.2. Place the mouse cursor over the button with the macro you wish to delete.3. Click the left mouse button.
TheaterTouch System Controller44HOW TO EDIT AN IR COMMAND IN A MACRO1. To edit an individual command in a macro you must have the macrodisplayed in the Macro Editor.2. Double click on the command in the macro you want to edit to open theEdit Infrared Command dialog box.Note: Not all of the controls will be available simultaneously. Only the optionsrelevant to the default settings and command being edited will be shown.The Edit Infrared Command options are:Minimum Repeats - Enter in this box the number of times that the repeatingpart of the IR code is sent by the remote. Some infrared receivers need acommand to be repeated a certain number of times to work properly, andsome may not work properly if the command is repeated at all. Even if acommand works properly, increasing the number of repeat times may benecessary if the command is to be used in a macro. Since macro commandsare not automatically sustained while a button is pressed, they may need toautomatically repeat more times to be recognized.Frequency – Shown in this box is the carrier frequency of the IR code, this isset automatically. You should not need to change this value unless directed todo so by Technical Support.Repeat while button is pressed - Check this box to cause this IR code to berepeated for as long as the button is held down.Note: Only one command in any macro can have this property set.Output Type:Unless the system contains a mixture of direct IR and IRF-6/RF commands,this option will not normally need to be changed.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features45Default - Check this option to set the default output type for thiscommand to the button default. The button default is the optionselected on the Output tab of the Edit Button Properties command.IR - Check this box to force this command to transmit IR directly outthe infrared window on the front of the remote, regardless of thesystem setting.RF - Check this box to force this command button to transmit IR via RFthrough the IRF-6, regardless of the system setting.RF ID Code:Unless the system contains more than one IRF-6, this option will not normallyneed to be changed.Default - Check this option to set the default RF ID code for thiscommand to the button default. The button default is the ID codeselected on the Output tab of the Edit Button Properties command.Code - Check this option and enter an ID Code in the box to force thiscommand to transmit a specific RF ID code when in RF mode,regardless of the system default setting.
TheaterTouch System Controller46IR Outputs group box:Check the box(s) that corresponds with the output(s) you wish to sendthe command(s) on this button out of the IRF-6. Note that the labelsfor the output can be changed with the Edit Remote Propertiescommand on the Edit menu.The default is to have the command(s) come out of all of the outputson the IRF-6. This option will not normally need to be changed unlessyou have multiple identical components or are using one of the powersensor modules.Send this code group box:The options in this section require that a power sensor module beplugged into the appropriate port on the IRF-6.Always - Check this option to send the IR code regardless of thepower sensor state. This option should also be checked if no powersensor is connected to the selected IR output.Only when device is ON - Check this option to send the IR code onlyif the power sensor in the specified port detects that the equipment itis monitoring is ON.Only when device is OFF - Check this option to send the IR code onlyif the power sensor in the specified port detects that the equipment itis monitoring is OFF.Note: In order to use the power sensor options, exactly one IR outputmust be selected in the IRF-6 IR Outputs box, and the power sensormust be plugged into that IR output port.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features47HOW TO USE THE CHANNEL MACRO WIZARDTheaterTouch Designer comes with a feature called the Channel Macro Wizard. TheChannel Macro Wizard allows you to quickly and easily create macros for satelliteand cable channel presets.To start using the Channel Macro Wizard:1. Select Channel Macro Wizard from the Edit menu.2. Click the Select New Remote button to select the remote that you will useto enter to enter the channel numbers and click the Next >> button. 3. You have the option of adding commands before and/or after each macrofor things such as an IR router before each command or an Entercommand after.
TheaterTouch System Controller484. Click the Add/Edit in the BEFORE or AFTER section if choose to addcommands. This will open the Macro Editor where you can select thecommands using the Marco Editor commands. If you need help withthese commands, see the “How to Use the Macro Editor” section. 5. Click the Next >> command button.6. Select the page you wish to place macros on from the Page drop-down listand then select the frame by clicking on the Left and Right frame arrows.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features49 7. Select the number of digits in the channel macro from the Spin box in thelower right corner. If you enter more digits than selected the numbers willwrap around.8. Click the first button from the touchscreen grid on which you want toplace a macro.9. Enter the channel numbers by either clicking the numbers in the ChannelMacro Wizard with the mouse or you can enter them with the numberson the keyboard.10. Click Save after you enter each macro.Click Close when finished with all your channel macros.
TheaterTouch System Controller50HOW TO EDIT THE REMOTE PROPERTIESThe Remote Properties dialog box allows you to change settings that affect the entireremote.To open the Remote Properties dialog box:Choose Edit Remote Properties from the Edit menu.POWER TAB The Power tab options are:Power Down Time: This allows you to adjust the to time the unit stays awakeafter the last button press. The time is variable from 1 second to 60 seconds(default is 10 seconds). During sleep mode, the TheaterTouch uses virtually nobattery power.Display Mode: The option buttons allows you to adjust the settings of the displayand keypad backlight.The options are:1. Any keypress (default), which turns the display and button backlight onwhen any button is pressed.2. Touchscreen or backlight key, which turns the display and buttonbacklight on only when the touchscreen or backlight key is pressed. Thisallows the volume/channel/etc. keys to be used without turning on thedisplay and backlight each time.Tilt Switch: (default is: active) The Tilt Switch check box allows you to turn thetilt switch on or off. When the box is checked, it means the tilt switch is active andwill turn on the display and button backlight when picked up.MISC. TAB
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features51The Misc. tab options are:Enable Beeper: Check the box to enable the beeper. If this box is checked, theTheaterTouch will beep every time a button is pressed.Scroll Rate: Slide this control to set how fast the frames scroll left and right whenthe frame scroll arrows are pressed.SECURITY TAB The Security tab options are:Passcode: (default is 0000) That allows you to set the passcode that is needed tolimit access to the Computer Link mode, the Clear All function on the controlpanel page as well as the Button Lockout function that is available on all buttons.Enable Programming Lockout: Check this box to require that the passcode beentered before the TheaterTouch will go into Computer Link mode. This can beused to prevent unauthorized modifications to the TheaterTouch programming.OUTPUT TAB The Output tab options are:Default Output Type:1. IR – (default) Check this option to set the remote's default output to IR.Every key on the remote will output IR signals directly out the window onthe front of the remote unless the button properties for the individualbutton are set to output RF.2. RF - Check this option to set the remote's default output to RF. Every keyon the remote will output IR signals via RF to the IRF-6 unless the buttonproperties for the individual button are set to output IR directly.
TheaterTouch System Controller52Default RF ID Code: Use this to set the default RF ID code. This RF ID code willbe used for all RF buttons unless it is set differently in the properties for eachbutton. The ID code switch on the back of the IRF-6 must also be set to thissetting.IRF-6 TAB The IRF-6 tab lets you label the outputs of the IRF-6. Use the pull down list to choosethe IRF-6 ID code for which you wish to modify the labels. You can modify the labelsof all ten possible IRF-6 ID codes independently. The labels are optional and are onlyused to make it easier for you to remember what equipment is plugged into each IRF-6 output.Send - Click this button to send the current settings directly to the remote.
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TheaterTouch System Controller54HOW TO EDIT BUTTON PROPERTIESThe Edit Button Properties dialog allows you to edit many different attributes of abutton or a group of buttons.To open the Edit Button Properties dialog box:1. Select the Edit Button Properties tool from the ToolPalette.2. Click the button you want to edit, either touchscreen or keypad buttonsNote: Not all of the tabs and/or controls will be available simultaneously. Only theoptions relevant to the button being edited will be shown.GENERAL TAB The options on the General tab are:Disabled - Check this box to prevent the button from responding (beeping orreversing/pushing in) when it is touched.Note: Disabled buttons can still have commands, macros and page links. Thedisabled property refers only to the appearance of the button, not thefunctionality.Reversed - Check this box to cause the button to be displayed in a reversed orpushed-in state when the button is not pushed and the normal state when thebutton is pushed. The reversed state is: filled in for Rectangular, Radius, Oblongand Borderless buttons; and Down for Custom Buttons.Note: This property does not apply to 3D buttons.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features55Secured - Check this box to require that the security code be entered before theaction (command, macro, or page link) associated with this button is run. Thesecurity code is set with the Edit Remote Properties command on the Edit menu.Special Functions group boxNone - Check this option to cause this button to have no special function.Power Down - Check this option to cause the remote to power downimmediately when this button is pressed, instead of waiting for the timer totime out.Contrast Up - Check this option to cause this button to increase the displaycontrast when it is pressed.Contrast Down - Check this option to cause this button to decrease thedisplay contrast when it is pressed.Pause - Enter in this box the number of seconds for the remote to pause after thebutton is released. This value will not usually need to be changed from 0.
TheaterTouch System Controller56OUTPUT TAB The options on the Output tab are:Output Type:Unless the system contains a mixture of direct IR and IRF-6/RF commands, thisoption will not normally need to be changed.Default - Select this option to set the default output type for this button to thesystem default. The system default is the option selected with the EditRemote Properties command on the Edit menu.IR - Select this option to force this button to transmit IR directly out theinfrared window on the front of the remote, regardless of the system setting.RF - Select this option to force this button to transmit IR via RF through theIRF-6, regardless of the system setting.RF ID Code:Unless the system contains more than one IRF-6, this option will not normallyneed to be changed.Default - Select this option to set the default RF ID code for this button to thesystem default. The system default is the ID code selected with the EditRemote Properties command on the Edit menu.Code - Select this option to force this button to transmit a specific RF ID codewhen in RF mode, regardless of the system default setting.System Defaults - This section shows the global defaults for the output type and RFID code, for reference. If you wish to change these values, use the Edit RemoteProperties command on the Edit menu.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features57IRF-6 TAB The IRF-6 tab options are:IR Outputs group box:Check the box(s) that corresponds with the output(s) you wish to send thecommands on this button out of the IRF-6. Note that the labels for the outputcan be changed with the Edit Remote Properties command on the Edit menu.The default is to have the commands come out of all of the outputs on theIRF-6. This option will not normally need to be changed unless you havemultiple identical components or are using one of the power sensor modules.Send this code group box:The options in this section require that a power sensor module be plugged intothe appropriate port on the IRF-6.Always - Check this option to send the IR code regardless of the powersensor state. This option should also be checked if no power sensor isconnected to the selected IR output.Only when device is ON - Check this option to send the IR code only if thepower sensor in the specified port detects that the equipment it is monitoringis ON.Only when device is OFF - Check this option to send the IR code only if thepower sensor in the specified port detects that the equipment it is monitoringis OFF.Note: In order to use the power sensor options, exactly one IR outputmust be selected in the IRF-6 Output box, and the power sensor must beplugged into that IR output port.
TheaterTouch System Controller58INFRARED TAB The Infrared tab options are:Min. Repeats - Enter in this box the number of times that the repeating part ofthe IR code is sent by the remote. Some infrared receivers need a command to berepeated a certain number of times to work properly, and some may not workproperly if the command is repeated at all. Change this setting only if you arehaving trouble with a command.Frequency - This box shows the carrier frequency of the IR code. This is setautomatically. You should not need to change this value unless directed to do soby Technical Support.Sustain - Check this box to control whether or not the IR code should repeat ifthe button is held down. Most infrared codes will transmit continuously as longas the button is held down, but some infrared receivers may not work properly ifthe command is repeated at all. If the Sustain button is checked, the code will betransmitted for as long as the button is held down, or the Minimum Repeat times,whichever is greater. If the Sustain button is not checked, the code will betransmitted only the Minimum Repeat number of time regardless of how long thebutton is held down.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features59COMMAND TAB The Command tab displays the manufacturers name, type of equipment, modelnumber and function of the command on a button.WAVEFORM TAB The Waveform tab displays the waveform of a command for advancedtroubleshooting or if you would just like to see what Infrared data looks like.HOW TO EDIT THE PROPERTIES OF MULTIPLE BUTTONSThe Edit Button Properties dialog allows you to edit many different attributes of abutton or a group of buttons.To edit the properties of multiple buttons at once:
TheaterTouch System Controller601. Select the buttons using the Select Button tool from theTool Palette.2. Click the right mouse button on one of the selected buttons, eithertouchscreen or keypad buttons and choose Edit Properties.For an explanation of all the button properties, see the “How to Edit ButtonProperties” section.Note: Not all of the tabs and/or controls will be available simultaneously. Only theoptions relevant to the button(s) being edited will be shown.A note about Multiple SelectionsIf you have more than one button selected, it is possible that they will initiallyhave different settings.The following meanings apply to options with a check box: All buttons in the selection will retain their original values forthe setting. All buttons in the selection will have the setting set to TRUE All buttons in the selection will have the setting set to FALSEIf options with numerical fields have different values, they will be left blank.If you DO NOT enter a number, all the buttons will retain their originalsetting. If you DO enter a number, all the buttons will be set to that value.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features61If options with radio buttons have different settings, NONE of the radiobuttons will have a dot next to them. In that case, each button will retain itsoriginal function. If you do wish to assign the SAME function to EVERYbutton, select one of the functions from the dialog.
TheaterTouch System Controller62HOW TO PRINT SCREENSHOTSTheaterTouch Designer comes with the ability to print screenshots of the individualframes of your remote file for reference purposes.To print screenshots of the open remote file:1. Choose Print from the File menu.2. Choose whether you want toa) Print Current Page Only – Prints a life-sized image of all of the framesof the currently displayed page.b) Print All Pages on One Sheet – Prints all of the frames from all of thepages in the current file on a single sheet of paper, scaling them ifnecessary.c) Print All Pages, 1 Per Sheet – Prints life-sized images of all of thepages in the current file, with all of the frames from each pagegrouped together on individual sheets of paper.3. Click OK.HOW TO PRINT SYSTEM CONFIGURATION REPORTSTheaterTouch Designer comes with the ability to create System Configuration Reports.This report is for archival purposes as well as a visual reference guide of the systemoptions and each IRF-6 configuration. To print the Configuration Report of the open remote file:1. Choose System Configuration Report from the File menu.2. Click the Print command button.3. Click OK to close.To copy the Configuration Report of the open remote file to the Windows clipboard:1. Choose System Configuration Report from the File menu.2. Click the Copy command button.3. The System Configuration Report is now on the Windows clipboard.4. Click OK to close.
Chapter 5 • TheaterTouch Designer Advanced Features63HOW TO CHECK MEMORY USAGEIt is possible, though not likely, to create a file in TheaterTouch Designer with moreinformation than the TheaterTouch can hold. To make sure this does not happen, usethe Check Memory Usage command on the Edit menu to see how large the currentfile is.The Remote Memory Used dialog displays the amount of space that buttons,bitmaps, custom buttons, commands, and macros take up in the TheaterTouch systemcontroller’s 128KB of memory. The pie chart in the dialog represents the amount ofmemory that each of the object types uses.If the memory is more than 100% full, the Free line will show a negative amount ofmemory, and will be flashing red. In this case, the following warning will bedisplayed in the dialog box:You will have to delete enough objects so that the Free line is not flashing red beforeyou can send this file to the TheaterTouch.
TheaterTouch System Controller64HOW TO CREATE A “SELF-DOWNLOADING .EXE”This command creates an executable from the current file that will automaticallydownload itself to the remote when run. These executables can be distributed toclient sites to simplify the process of updating remotes in the field.TheaterTouch Designer does not need to be installed for the self-contained executableto work.To make a Self-Downloading .EXE of the current file:1. Choose Create Self-Downloading .EXE from the Communications menu.2. Choose the location you want to save the file in the Save in address box.3. Enter the name of the file in the File Name box.4. Click the Save button to save and close.You can now put the .EXE file on a diskette or E-Mail it.HOW TO USE THE “SEND” COMMANDThis command sends the current file through electronic mail. This command is onlyavailable if your computer has a properly configured e-mail client that is compatiblewith the Microsoft MAPI specification. Microsoft Exchange and Microsoft Outlookare two examples of MAPI-compliant e-mail clients.TheaterTouch Designer does need to be installed for the file to work.To send the current file via E-Mail:1. Choose Send from the File menu.2. The default E-Mail program will open with the current file inserted as anattachment with the extension .rti.3. Send the E-Mail as required by you E-Mail program.
Chapter 6 • IR Library Manager65Chapter 6. IR Library ManagerThe TheaterTouch reproduces the infrared commands of other remote controls. Eachof these infrared commands must be captured (learned) and placed into theTheaterTouch Designer Command Library.This is done by using the original remote control (the donor) from a piece ofequipment to teach its commands to the TheaterTouch. The TheaterTouch thentransfers the captured command to the Infrared Library Manager software throughits RS-232 serial port. Once a command is placed in the infrared library, it never hasto be captured again.Before you can send infrared commands to the PC, you need to create a new remotefile by going to the IR Library Manager in the TheaterTouch Designer software.INFRARED CODESThere are two types of infrared codes that are commonly used for consumerelectronics products: Frequency Modulated and Pulsed.FREQUENCY MODULATIONThis type of transmission modulates the IR energy at a fixed carrier frequency. Thevast majority of consumer electronics remote controls use a carrier frequency around40kHz, although the carrier can range from 15kHz to 455kHz or higher. TheTheaterTouch is designed to reproduce carrier frequencies between 15kHz and 460kHz.The actual code consists of bursts of IR energy modulated at the carrier frequency,separated by pauses. The code is defined by the length of each burst and each pause, as well as by thecarrier frequency.
TheaterTouch System Controller66PULSED IR CODESThis type of transmission does not use a carrier frequency. Pulsed codes are quite common in cable TV converter boxes.HOW THE THEATERTOUCH LEARNS IR CODESThere are many different encoding schemes used for IR codes. The burst and pausetimes have fixed lengths, variable lengths, or some combination of the two. To learnthe code, the TheaterTouch “records” a sample of the code in a manner similar to theway a tape recorder records sound. Once a sample of the code has been taken, it isanalyzed to find any repeating patterns.Some codes continuously repeat themselves for as long as the button is pressed.Others send a code followed by a “keep alive” pattern. Some codes don’t repeat atall. Any of the above types of codes can also have some sort of preamble in front ofthem. It is very important to capture the preamble in this type of code. The IRlearning buffer of the TheaterTouch is large enough to accommodate the preamble.When a repeating pattern is found, extra repeats are stripped off before the code isstored in memory. The number of repeats is also stored so the code can bereproduced accurately.If the buffer was filled up during learning, it is assumed that the pattern should berepeated for as long as the key is pressed. This is common for commands such asVolume, Balance, and Scan— functions that may need to be continuously repeated.For these types of commands, Sustain is set ON as the Edit IR default. If the buffer isnot filled, Sustain is set OFF and the repeat pattern is displayed as the MinimumRepeats.The default Minimum Repeats for a code with Sustain ON is one. This means therepeating pattern will repeat at least one time when the button is pressed. You canedit this if necessary, in the Edit IR mode of Infrared Library Manager software.If the code uses a carrier frequency, that frequency is also stored with the code.
Chapter 6 • IR Library Manager67HINTS FOR LEARNING IR CODESAlways place the TheaterTouch and the donor remote control on a flat surface. Youmay find it necessary to elevate the donor or the TheaterTouch with a book or similarobject to align them vertically.Once you have learned and tested a code from a remote, try not to move it until youhave learned all the codes. If you do accidentally move either remote, you should re-align them.It is VERY IMPORTANT to make sure the donor remote is using fresh batteries. TheTheaterTouch needs a strong IR signal to properly learn a code. If the frequency read-out in the ALIGN mode is 0.0 kHz, then the code is a pulsed type. In this case, youshould transmit the commands to the TheaterTouch from the longest distance you canwithout getting an error message.If you always get an error message when trying to learn a code, you should trymoving the donor remote up and down or back and forth. If this does not help, trytapping the buttons on the donor instead of holding them down.Many commands can be made more reliable if the number of repeat times isincreased. This is especially true for commands assigned to buttons that are likely tobe briefly “tapped” or for commands that are part of a macro.Increasing the number of repeat times increases the probability of the command“getting through.” This is essentially a trade-off between increased reliability and anincrease in the length of time required to transmit a command. This can take a bit offine-tuning on complicated macros.Keep in mind that the IR transmit LEDs may not be located in the center of the donorremote. It may be necessary to place the remote off-center to get a reliable capture.
TheaterTouch System Controller68HOW TO OPEN THE IR LIBRARY MANAGER1. Choose IR Library Manager from the Library menu from theTheaterTouch Designer toolbar.2. From here, you can decide to create a new library of commands or add toan existing library by choosing from the File menu either New or Open.HOW TO CREATE A NEW IR LIBRARY1. Choose New from the File menu, the Create IR Library dialog box willopen.2. Enter the name of the new library in the File name box.3. Be sure to save your new file in the Command Libraries folder of theTheaterTouch Designer software folder.4. Click the Save button to create the library.
Chapter 6 • IR Library Manager69Once you click the Save button, the Edit View dialog box will open showing you theremotes that are in that particular library. If there are no remotes in that library, suchas after creating a new library, the fields will be empty.
TheaterTouch System Controller70HOW TO OPEN AN EXISTING IR LIBRARY1. Choose Open from the File menu.2. When the Open IR Library dialog box opens, select the file you wish toopen.3. Click the Open button. Once you click the Open button, the Edit View dialog box will open showing you theremotes that are in that particular library.
Chapter 6 • IR Library Manager71HOW TO ADD A NEW REMOTE TO AN IR LIBRARY1. Click on the New button on the upper right hand side of the Edit Viewdialog box.2. This will open the Create New Remote dialog box. 3. Enter the manufacturer’s name, type of equipment, (such as TV, VCR,Drapes, Lights and so on) and model number of the component or remotein the appropriate fields.4. In the function field, enter the name of the actual commands you aregoing to learn (such as Channel+, Channel-, Volume+, Volume-, Power, 1,2, 3 and so on).5. After you enter each function name click on the Add command button tosave, you can always edit the name of a function later if you make amistake or add a function.6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for each button on the remote.7. When done entering information about new remote, click on the OKcommand button to save and close.
TheaterTouch System Controller72HOW TO USE THE NEW REMOTE WIZARDIf you are entering a commonly used component to the IR Library, you can use theNew Remote Wizard to enter the titles of commonly use commands for that type ofequipment.1. Open the Create New Remote dialog box.2. Enter the information on the equipment you are about to learn commandsfrom. The manufacturers name, type of equipment, (such as TV, VCR,Drapes, Lights and so on) and model number of the component or remotein the appropriate fields.3. Click the Wizard command button; this will open the New RemoteWizard dialog box.4. Check or uncheck the function titles you wish to insert and click OK.5. You can always edit the name of a function later if you make a mistake oradd a function.6. When done entering information about new remote, click on the OKcommand button to save and close.
Chapter 6 • IR Library Manager73HOW TO ALIGN A DONOR REMOTE CONTROLTo ensure that a valid signal is being received, all donor remote controls must beproperly aligned with the TheaterTouch learning window. This is the window locatedon the front of the unit.The TheaterTouch has an ALIGN function to help determine the correct position infront of the learning window, and determine the modulation frequency of the donorremote’s infrared signal. This function is invoked upon entering the IR CAPTUREmode from the CONTROL PANEL page. IMPORTANT: The Align function determines the modulation frequency of thedonor remote’s infrared signal; so all donor remote controls must be aligned beforebeing captured.
TheaterTouch System Controller74To properly align a donor remote control with the TheaterTouch:1. Make sure the donor remote has fresh batteries then line up donor remoteso that is at the same height as the learning window on the TheaterTouch.It may be necessary to place the donor remote control on a higher surfacethan the TheaterTouch, or vice-versa.2. Press any key on the donor remote control, moving the remote back andforth in front of the learning window. The donor remote control is locatedat the proper distance from the TheaterTouch when the Signal box is on(darkened) and the frequency read-out is stable. The frequency readoutshould not be 0.0kHz if it is possible to get it to read any other number bymoving the donor remote around. If the Signal box is off (white), theTheaterTouch is not detecting any infrared signal.3. If the Overload box is darkened, the donor remote is too close to theTheaterTouch. Move the donor remote away from the TheaterTouch untilthe Overload indicator turns white.
Chapter 6 • IR Library Manager75HOW TO CAPTURE INFRARED COMMANDSOnce a donor remote control is properly aligned, the TheaterTouch is ready to startcapturing the IR commands and transferring them to the Infrared Library ManagerSoftware.1. Make sure the TheaterTouch is in the IR CAPTURE LEARN MODE onframe 2 of the IR CAPTURE page and says STATUS: READY.The last frequency measured with the ALIGN function should bedisplayed at the bottom of the screen. If it is not, you must go through theAlign Procedure again. 2. The communications cable should be connected to the TheaterTouch andthe PC. The TheaterTouch Designer software needs to be running with theInfrared Library Manager window open.The dialog box should say Edit View on the title bar with the name of theinfrared library you are working in after it.3. Click on the Learn IR command button and if you are still properlyaligned, you are ready to start capturing codes.
TheaterTouch System Controller764. Now press and hold the key on the donor remote control that transmitsthe command that you want the TheaterTouch to learn. Continue to holdthe key down until the TheaterTouch displays OK.After the command has been processed, the TheaterTouch will displayCaptured then Sending. If an error message is displayed, realign thedonor remote control and try again.If the IR command was captured properly, it will be stored in a temporarymemory buffer, and transferred to the Infrared Library Manager softwareautomatically. A red dot will be placed in front of the function text to letyou know that the function has been learned.The command will remain in memory (for testing) until it is overwrittenby the next captured command. The software will prompt you for eachfunction command to be learned.5. To close the IR Capture window in the software click on the Close button.6. To close the IR Capture page on the remote, press the Main Menu buttonon the keypad. The remote will stay in the IR Capture mode until youmanually press the Main Menu button.
Chapter 6 • IR Library Manager77HOW TO TEST INFRARED COMMANDSAfter the TheaterTouch has learned a command, you can test it to make sure itbehaves properly.1. Press the SELECT button while in the IR Capture Test Mode on frame 3 ofIR Capture page, this will test the last captured IR command.The command will remain in memory (for testing) until it is overwrittenby the next captured command.2. Make sure you point the TheaterTouch at the equipment to be controlledwhen you press the SELECT button. If the command does not work properly, it may need to be edited or re-learned.3. To close the IR Capture window on the remote press the MAIN MENUbutton.SELECT Button
TheaterTouch System Controller78HOW TO EDIT INFRARED COMMANDSMost infrared commands will transmit continuously as long as the remote control keyis held down. This means that either the entire command or some part of it is beingrepeated over and over.The Infrared Library Manager software allows you to adjust the number of commandrepeat times and to enable or disable continuous transmission. Min. Repeats - Enter in this box the number of times that the repeating part of the IRcode is sent by the remote. Some infrared receivers need a command to be repeateda certain number of times to work properly, and some may not work properly if thecommand is repeated at all. Change this setting only if you are having trouble with acommand.Frequency - This box shows the carrier frequency of the IR code. This is setautomatically. You should not need to change this value unless directed to do so byTechnical Support.
Chapter 6 • IR Library Manager79Sustain - Check this box to control whether or not the IR code should repeat if thebutton is held down. Most infrared codes will transmit continuously as long as thebutton is held down, but some infrared receivers may not work properly if thecommand is repeated at all. If the Sustain button is checked, the code will betransmitted for as long as the button is held down, or the Minimum Repeat times,whichever is greater. If the Sustain button is not checked, the code will betransmitted only the Minimum Repeat number of time regardless of how long thebutton is held down.Apply – Use this to save any changes you have made.Test – Use this to test any changes you have made to a command. Make sure to havethe TheaterTouch hooked up to the computer with the serial cable and have theremote in Test IR Mode on frame 3 of the IR Capture page in the Control Panel.
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Chapter 7 • Image Editors81Chapter 7. Image EditorsThe TheaterTouch Designer software comes with two additional programs for creatingcustom graphics. These programs are very similar in appearance and functionalityand both programs can be accessed from the Library menu within the TheaterTouchDesigner program.The Button Bitmap Editor is for creating and editing button bitmaps for such thingsas channel and transport icons.The Custom Button Editor is for creating and editing custom buttons for such thingsas company logos or complex groups of controls.THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CUSTOM BUTTONS AND BITMAPSCustom Buttons have several fundamental differences from Bitmaps:1. Custom Buttons must specify an image of the entire button. Bitmaps aresmaller, and therefore can be placed on buttons with the standard borderstyles.2. Custom Buttons can contain more than one active button area, so a wholegroup of related controls can be created as a single Custom Button.Bitmaps are indivisible, and must be placed separately onto individualbuttons.3. Custom Buttons must provide an image for both the Up (normal) andDown (pressed) states of the button. Bitmaps provide only the Up image.The Down image of a Bitmap is created by simply inverting it.4. Custom Buttons can be any size, up to the entire display size. Bitmaps arelimited to a handful of pre-defined sizes.Given these characteristics, Custom Buttons are most appropriate for complex orlarge groups of controls, such as a customized set of transport controls for a VCR, ora large company logo.Bitmaps are most appropriate for small pictures that don’t need a full button todisplay, such as TV channel icons or small logos. Since Bitmaps don’t have a Downimage, they take half as much memory to store in the TheaterTouch, so more Bitmapscan be created.Both Custom Buttons and Bitmaps are stored within Libraries, not as individual files.Before you can design your own Custom Buttons or Bitmaps, you must create a newlibrary file using the Custom Button Editor or Button Bitmap Editor. The library filecan have many Custom Buttons or Bitmaps within it.
TheaterTouch System Controller82BUTTON BITMAP EDITOR SCREENTo open the Button Bitmap Editor, select Button Bitmap Editor from the Librarymenu in the TheaterTouch Designer program.CUSTOM BUTTON EDITOR SCREENTo open the Custom Button Editor, select Custom Button Editor from the Librarymenu in the TheaterTouch Designer program.
Chapter 7 • Image Editors83TOOLBARThe toolbar provides instant access to commonly used Button Bitmap Editor andCustom Button Editor functions.Create New Library Command – Use this command to create alibrary to hold your custom buttons or bitmaps. The built in libraries that come with thesoftware are read-only and new images cannot be saved to them. Thiscommand should only be used when a new library is desired. If you want to create a newimage, use the Create New Image Command.Open Library Command – Use this command to open existinglibraries. The currently open library, if any, will be closed.Edit Library Command – Use this command to rename or delete acustom button or bitmap in a library that you created. The built in libraries that comewith the software are read-only and images cannot be edited. This command is notavailable unless a Bitmap Library is open.
TheaterTouch System Controller84Create New Image Command – Use this command to create a newimage in the currently open library in the Bitmap Editor, the New Bitmap Sizedialog will be displayed, where you can select the size for the new Bitmap. Thebuilt in libraries that come with the software are read-only and new images cannot besaved to them.Open Image Command – Use this command to open an existingimage in the currently open library for editing. When you choose the Open Imagecommand, the Open Image dialog box is displayed to allow you to select whichimage to edit. This command is not available unless a Bitmap Library is open.Save Image Command – Use this command to save the currentimage to the currently open library. If the image has already been saved, thiscommand updates the existing version. If the image has never been saved before,this command is the same as the Image Save Image As command, and displays theEdit Title dialog for you to enter a name. This command is not available unless alibrary is open and an image is being edited.
Chapter 7 • Image Editors85Undo Command – Use this command to reverse the last changeyou made to the image. Choose the Undo command again to reverse the previouschange. A maximum of 64 changes are reversible with the Undo command. TheUndo command can only reverse editing changes to the current image. It cannotundo changes to a library, and the Undo information is destroyed when the image isclosed or the view is toggled between the Up and Down images in the Custom ButtonEditor.Redo Command – Use this command to cancel the effect of the lastUndo command. Choose the Redo command again to cancel the next Undo. Amaximum of 64 changes can be canceled with the Redo command. The Redocommand can only cancel Undo commands to the current image. The Redoinformation is destroyed when the image is closed, when the view is toggled betweenthe Up and Down images, or when other editing changes are made to the image.Cut Command – Use this command to move the selectedsections to the Clipboard, this replaces the selection with solid white. You can usethis to move images between the Button Bitmap Editor and the Custom Button Editor.Copy Command – Use this command to copy selected sectionsto the Clipboard. This command does not alter the current image. You can use this tomove images between the Button Bitmap Editor and the Custom Button Editor.
TheaterTouch System Controller86 Paste Command – Use this command to place previously cut orcopied sections from the clipboard back onto the touchscreen grid and switches theButton Bitmap Editor or Custom Button Editor into Selection mode. You can drag thepasted sections to the desired position on the page. You can use this to move imagesbetween the Button Bitmap Editor and the Custom Button Editor. This command isnot available if the data on the Clipboard is not in bitmap format. Help Topics – Use this command to open the Help Topicsdialog box for more help.
Chapter 7 • Image Editors87TOOL PALETTEThe Tool Palette provides access to all the drawing tools used by the Button BitmapEditor and Custom Button Editor.Selection Tool - The Selection Tool is used to define a rectangularselection region on the image. To define a selection, click the left mouse button in theDrawing Area where one corner of the selection rectangle should be placed, drag themouse to the opposite corner, and release the mouse button.Button Selection Tool (Custom Button Editor only) - The ButtonSelection Tool defines the active button areas on a Custom Button image. To define abutton selection, click the left mouse button in the Drawing Area where one cornerof the selection rectangle should be placed, drag the mouse to the opposite corner,and release the mouse button. To remove an existing button selection, place themouse cursor inside of the selection you wish to remove and click the right mousebutton.Zoom Tool - The Zoom Tool is used to magnify portions of theimage. Click the left mouse button over a spot in the Drawing Area to “Zoom In”(make the image larger) or click the right mouse button over a point to “Zoom Out”(make the image smaller). The Zoom commands on the View menu can also be usedto change the Zoom level.
TheaterTouch System Controller88Pencil Tool - The Pencil Tool is used to color individual pixels onthe image. Click the left mouse button in the Drawing Area to turn the pixel underthe Pencil point black, and click the right mouse button to turn the pixel white.Brush Tool - The Brush Tool acts like the Pencil Tool, but colors alarger portion of the image. The Brush Size, the size of the shape that the Brushdraws, can be changed by clicking on a different sized brush in the rectangular areabelow the drawing tools, or by choosing a size from the Brush Size menu under theView menu. Click the left mouse button in the Drawing Area to turn the pixelsunder the Brush black, and click the right mouse button to turn the pixels white.Fill Tool - The Fill Tool is used to color large portions of the image.Several Fill Patterns are available in the rectangular area below the drawing tools. Touse the Fill Tool, choose the desired Fill Pattern, and then click the left mouse buttoninside of the area to fill. The Fill Tool will color the image with the Fill Pattern in alldirections until it encounters a black line or the edge of the image. If the fill is to becontained to the inside of a shape, be sure that there are no gaps in the shape’sborder.Eraser Tool - The Eraser Tool is identical to the Brush Tool exceptthat clicking the left mouse button draws in white, and clicking the right mousebutton draws in black.Line Tool - The Line Tool is used to draw straight lines on theimage. To draw a black line, click and hold the left mouse button in the DrawingArea where one end of the line should go, move the mouse to the other end of the
Chapter 7 • Image Editors89line, and release the mouse button. To draw a white line, follow the same steps butclick the right mouse button instead of the left.Text Tool - The Text Tool is used to place text on the image. Toplace text, click the left mouse button in the Drawing Area, and the Place Text dialogwill appear. Enter the desired text in the dialog and click OK. The text will appear ina blue selection rectangle, where it can be placed precisely on the image.Rectangle Tool - The Rectangle Tool is used to draw rectangles onthe image. Click the left mouse button in the Drawing Area where one corner of therectangle should be placed, drag the mouse to the opposite corner, and release themouse button. To draw a white rectangle, follow the same steps but click the rightmouse button instead of the left. The portions of the image in the center of therectangle are not affected by this tool.Rounded Rectangle Tool - The Rounded Rectangle Tool is used todraw rectangles with rounded corners on the image. The radius of the corners is thesame as that of “Radius” buttons on the TheaterTouch. Click the left mouse button inthe Drawing Area where one corner of the rounded rectangle should be placed, dragthe mouse to the opposite corner, and release the mouse button. To draw a whiterounded rectangle, follow the same steps but click the right mouse button instead ofthe left. The portions of the image in the center of the rounded rectangle are notaffected by this tool.Circle Tool - The Circle Tool is used to draw circles and ovals onthe image. Click the left mouse button in the Drawing Area where one corner of theimaginary rectangle that bounds the circle should be placed, drag the mouse to theopposite corner, and release the mouse button. To draw a white circle, follow thesame steps but click the right mouse button instead of the left. The portions of theimage in the center of the circle are not affected by this tool.
TheaterTouch System Controller90Filled Rectangle Tool - The Filled Rectangle Tool is used to drawrectangles filled with a Fill Pattern on the image. Several Fill Patterns are available inthe rectangular area below the drawing tools. To use the Filled Rectangle Tool,choose the desired Fill Pattern, click the left mouse button in the Drawing Areawhere one corner of the rectangle should be placed, drag the mouse to the oppositecorner, and release the mouse button. To draw a solid white rectangle, follow thesame steps but click the right mouse button instead of the left.Filled Rounded Rectangle Tool - The Filled Rounded RectangleTool is used to draw rectangles with rounded corners filled with a Fill Pattern on theimage. Several Fill Patterns are available in the rectangular area below the drawingtools. To use the Filled Rounded Rectangle Tool, choose the desired Fill Pattern,click the left mouse button in the Drawing Area where one corner of the rectangleshould be placed, drag the mouse to the opposite corner, and release the mousebutton. To draw a solid white rounded rectangle, follow the same steps but click theright mouse button instead of the left.Filled Circle Tool - The Filled Circle Tool is used to draw circlesand ovals filled with a Fill Pattern on the image. Several Fill Patterns are available inthe rectangular area below the drawing tools. To use the Filled Circle Tool, choosethe desired Fill Pattern, click the left mouse button in the Drawing Area where onecorner of the imaginary rectangle bounding the circle should be placed, drag themouse to the opposite corner, and release the mouse button. To draw a solid whitecircle, follow the same steps but click the right mouse button instead of the left.UP IMAGE-DOWN IMAGE TOOL (Custom Button Editor Only):
Chapter 7 • Image Editors91Click on the Up Image button to display the Up Image in the Drawing Area, or clickon the Down Image button to display the Down Image.All Custom Buttons have two totally separate images, an Up image, which representsthe button in its normal state; and a Down image, which represents the button in itspressed state. The Up image is the picture that is normally displayed by theTheaterTouch, unless the button has its Reversed property set, in which case theDown image is normally displayed.
TheaterTouch System Controller92In most cases, you will find it easiest to create the Up image first. As a starting pointfor creating the Down image, you may want to select the whole Up image, copy it tothe Clipboard, switch to the Down image, and paste the image from the Clipboard.At this point, you can use the editor to modify the image you pasted to make it theDown image. If a simple reversal is all you need, the Invert Selection command onthe Edit menu will do the trick.NEW BITMAP SIZE DIALOG BOX (Button Bitmap Editor Only):The New Bitmap Size dialog box opens when you select the Create New Imagecommand. You can choose from the five sizes listed in the dialog box, a sample of thesize will be displayed in the Sample section.26 by 10 pixels = 1 section wide by 1 section high, which is the smallest buttonbitmap size.26 by 26 pixels = 1 section wide by 2 sections high, which is the standard channelicon size.58 by 26 pixels = 2 sections wide by 2 sections high, which is one-third of thetouchscreen58 by 42 pixels = 2 sections wide by 3 sections high, which is half of the touchscreen.58 by 58 pixels = 2 sections wide by 4 sections high, which is two-thirds of thetouchscreen.
Chapter 8 • Troubleshooting93Chapter 8. TroubleshootingIf you have difficulty with your TheaterTouch universal system controller, readthrough these troubleshooting tips and common questions before contacting technicalsupport.If you continue to have difficulties, do not hesitate to contact technical support. Seechapter 9 for more information on contacting RTI.DISPLAY IS DIM, BLANK OR UNREADABLEMake sure the battery pack is snapped on the remote properly and that the battery ischarged.Try adjusting the contrast of the touchscreen on the Control Panel page of theremote. By nature, the contrast of an LCD screen changes with temperature, so if theremote is cold the display will be dark and will lighten as it warms. (Refer to Chapter2 for more details)The remote may have timed out, turning off the display. You can change the TimeOut time on the Control Panel page of the remote to your liking. (Default time is 10seconds) (Refer to Chapter 2 for more details)COMMUNICATION PROBLEMSMake sure the Computer Link button on frame 3 of the Control Panel page of theTheaterTouch is pressed before beginning the communication operation.Make sure you are using the programming cable that was supplied with the unit andthat both ends are connected securely.If the only serial port on your computer has a serial mouse plugged into it, you candisconnect the mouse and use that port with the TheaterTouch Designer software. Ifyou do this, you MUST restart Windows with the mouse unplugged beforeTheaterTouch Designer will be able to use the port.If the serial port you are trying to use is COM 3 or COM 4, make sure that it is notsharing an interrupt request (IRQ) line with COM 1 or COM 2. The defaultconfiguration for COM 1 and COM 3 both share IRQ 4, and COM 2 and COM 4 bothshare IRQ 3. Contact your computer manufacturer for more information onconfiguring your serial ports.
TheaterTouch System Controller94If you are trying to use the second serial port on your computer, it is possible that it isdisabled in the computer’s CMOS (or BIOS) setup. Consult your computer’sdocumentation or contact your computer manufacturer for more details.If your computer is a notebook or laptop, be sure that the external serial port isenabled properly. Some laptops, especially (but certainly not limited to) IBMThinkPads, have their external ports disabled by default.• If your computer has an IrDA infrared port, there may be a setting where youcan choose between the infrared port and the serial port.• Some portable computers with Advanced Power Management disable theexternal serial ports to conserve battery power.• Some with PCMCIA card sockets reserve the COM 2 connector for use with aPCMCIA card.• You may need to run your computer’s setup or configuration program toenable the port. Consult your computer’s documentation or contact yourcomputer manufacturer for more details.Make sure no other software running on your computer is trying to access the serialport. If you have a PDA (such as a 3COM Palm Pilot or Apple Newton), scanner(such as a Visioneer PaperPort), graphics tablet, fax modem or other serial devicesthat plug into the same serial port, you need to disable its software and restartWindows before TheaterTouch Designer can use that serial port.If you have an internal modem and an external COM port at the same address, theexternal COM port will not work and must be reconfigured. For example, if theinternal modem is set to use COM 2, the computer’s built in COM 2 port will notfunction correctly.Use the Auto Detect option in the Communication Setup dialog box. Use the SetCOM Port command on the Options menu to display the Communication Setupdialog box and then click the Auto Detect command button to determine which serialport the remote is connected to. The serial port on your computer may be mislabeled.If you are communicating with the TheaterTouch and the transfer fails after some datahas been transferred, your computer may not support TheaterTouch Designer’s high-speed communication protocol. Use the Set COM Port command on the Optionsmenu to display the Communication Setup dialog box and select the “Medium” or“Low” communication speed.
Chapter 8 • Troubleshooting95INFRARED PROBLEMSThe TheaterTouch and TheaterTouch Designer software are compatible with infrared(IR) commands with carrier frequencies between 15kHz and 460kHz. This covers thevast majority of remotes available to date, including Bang & Olufsen® (most of whichuse 455kHz) and Vidikron® (some of which use 333kHz).However, some older Pioneer® Elite remotes have a carrier frequency of 1.125MHzand are not compatible with most IR products, including the TheaterTouch andTheaterTouch Designer software. You can however use IR commands from regular(non-Elite) Pioneer® remotes, which have a carrier frequency of 40kHz. Theseregular Pioneer® IR commands operate the basic functions of the Elite products.When learning IR commands, use fresh batteries in the donor remote. Even if thedonor remote still operates the equipment, using fresh batteries will ensure good,strong, clean signals.• Keep ambient light to a minimum. Avoid bright overhead lighting such asfluorescent and neon lighting or direct sunlight.• Make sure the donor remote is positioned properly. The TheaterTouch hasa signal level display that indicates when the donor remote is too close ortoo far away from the learning window. Just the Signal box should light(go dark) when you have the proper level.• Once you have proper alignment, do not move either the TheaterTouch orthe donor remote until done learning all the commands you wish to learn.• Because every remote is different, you must go through the alignmentprocedure every time you learn any new commands to insure the bestpossible range and consistency of each IR command.If a learned command is not working properly, try relearning the command makingsure to go through the entire alignment procedure.If you are using an IR repeater system, make sure it is working flawlessly with thedonor remote, if not you need to fix or repair the IR system. The TheaterTouch remoteeven with its advanced features cannot overcome these kinds of problems.If you are still having problems, try using the Edit IR function in the Infrared LibraryManager to adjust the frequency up or down in small steps you should retest thecommand after each change. This can be done by clicking on the Test commandbutton on the bottom of this page.
TheaterTouch System Controller96UNABLE TO LEARN COMMANDSIf for some reason you are unable to learn commands into the TheaterTouch, or youcannot get commands to work, contact Technical Support to see if we can help you.You may wish to check our web site to see if the codes are already available.If need be we can try to learn the commands for you at our factory by sending us thedonor remote.If successful, we can send you the commands via E-Mail or on diskette so you caninsert them into your remote file. It will also be posted on our web site for others touse.MACRO PROBLEMSIf you are having problems with missed commands in macros but the IR commandswork fine when placed on individual buttons try editing the Minimum Repeats inthe Macro Editor to increase the number of times the command is repeated.Click on the Edit Macro tool from the Tools dialog box on the bottom of the mainscreen, click on the button on which the macro you are having trouble with is. Whenthe Edit Macro dialog box opens, double-click on the specific IR command you arehaving the trouble with, when the Edit Infrared Command dialog box opens, changethe number of repeats to 4 or 5 to start with and if that doesn’t work, bump it up to 7or 8.As always, when you make any changes to your file, be sure to send the new file tothe remote and thoroughly test your changes.Minimum Repeats is usually set between 0 and 3, but some commands may need tobe repeated more times. You can set the number of repeats as high as you need to getconsistent results.
Chapter 9 • Service and Support97Chapter 9. Service and supportUPDATES AND NEW PRODUCTSFor news about the latest updates, new product information and accessories, pleasevisit our web site at:www.TheaterTouch.comCONTACTING REMOTE TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATEDFor general info, you can contact RTI at:Info@rticorp.comRemote Technologies IncorporatedTel. (612) 253-3100Fax (612) 253-3131www.rticorp.comRTI TECHNICAL SUPPORTAt RTI, customer service and satisfaction is an utmost priority. If you areencountering any problems or have a question about your RTI product, pleasecontact RTI Technical Support for assistance.RTI provides technical support by telephone, fax or E-mail. For the highest qualityservice, please have the following information ready, or provide it in your fax or E-mail.♦ Your Name♦ Company Name♦ Telephone Number♦ E-mail Address♦ Product model and serial number (if applicable)
TheaterTouch System Controller98If you are having a problem with hardware-note the equipment you are using, whatthe problem is you are having and any troubleshooting you have tried.If you are having a problem with software-note what version software you are using,the operating system on your PC, what the problem is you are having and anytroubleshooting you have tried.If you are calling in regards to a software or programming question or problem,please be at you computer when you place your call, this will considerably speed upthe troubleshooting process.For technical support or assistance with your TheaterTouch remote, software oraccessories, contact RTI at:(612) 253-3137support@rticorp.comwww.rticorp.com/supportFor questions regarding service or repair of your TheaterTouch remote control, contactRTI at:(612) 253-3136service@rticorp.comwww.rticorp.com/servicePlease do not return products to Remote Technologies Incorporated without returnauthorization.
Chapter 9 • Service and Support99SHIPMENT OF REMOTE FOR SERVICERemote Technologies Incorporated will pay all labor and material expenses for allrepairs covered by this warranty. If necessary repairs are not covered by warranty,or if a unit is examined which is not in need of repair, you will be charged for therepairs or examination.If it is necessary to ship the TheaterTouch system controller for service: Please pack it securely and we suggest that it be insured.Do not include accessories such as power cords or manuals.Please back up your internal program. Although every effort is made to save thisdata and reload it after repair, Remote Technologies Incorporated is neither liablefor its loss, nor responsible for providing a back up for you.You must pay any shipping charges incurred in getting your TheaterTouch systemcontroller to Remote Technologies Incorporated. Remote Technologies Incorporatedwill pay reasonable return shipping charges via a carrier of our choice to anydestination within the United States if the repairs are covered under warranty.A copy of the original dated sales receipt must be provided whenever warrantyservice is required. You will need this receipt to establish the date of purchase.
TheaterTouch System Controller100SpecificationsPower: 4.8 VDC, 900 mA NiMH Battery PackPower Management: Automatic on/off (tilt switch)Infrared Control Range: 30 Feet (9.1m) @ 60 DegreesInfrared Frequency Range: 15kHz – 460kHz (learning and transmission)Radio Frequency Control Range: Up to 100 Feet (30.5m)(with optional IRF-6 System Interface)Radio Frequency Carrier: 418MHz (U.S. Model)Operating Temperature: +32°F to +122°F (+0°C to +50°C)Operating Humidity: 5% to 95% Non-condensingTouch Panel Display: High-resolution STN LCD Digital Matrix128 x 64 pixels (Blue on Paper White)Touchscreen never needs calibratingDisplay size (HW): 2.4 in. x 1.3 in. (61mm x 33mm)Backlights: White EL (Display), Blue EL (Keypad)Nominal Run Time on Full Charge: 6.5 hours minimum, continuous use (10 to 15 days on average use)Standby Time on Full Charge: 30 DaysBattery Charge Time: 3-4 HoursTotal System Memory: 128K Bytes Flash (non-volatile) memoryDevice Capability: Total number of devices is limited onlyby memoryMacro Capability: Up to 64 steps in a single macro -Total number of macros is limited only by memory -Macro capability on every button
Specifications101Communications: PC compatible RS-232 portTheaterTouch Device ID: 10 unique ID codes availableOptional IRF-6 System Interface ID: 10 unique ID codes availableDimensions- Length: 9.9 in. (251mm) Width: 2.4 in. (61mm) body, 2.9 in. (74mm) center Height: 1.1 in. (28mm)Enclosure: High impact molded ABS with textured finish Weight: 11 oz. (312g) with battery pack 8 oz. (227g) without battery packAll specifications subject to change without notice.
TheaterTouch System Controller102AppendixSOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT(SINGLE USER PRODUCTS). This is a legal agreement between you (either anindividual or an entity) and Remote Technologies Incorporated. By installing thesoftware accompanying this guide you are agreeing to be bound by the terms of theagreement. If you do not agree to the terms of this agreement, promptly return thesoftware CD-ROM and the accompanying items to the place you obtained them for fullrefund.SOFTWARE LICENSEGRANT OF LICENSE. This License Agreement permits you to use one copy of theRemote Technologies Incorporated software program (the “SOFTWARE”) on a singlecomputer. The SOFTWARE is in “use” on a computer when it is loaded into temporarymemory (i.e. RAM) or installed into permanent memory (e.g. hard disk, diskette, CD-ROM or other storage device) of that computer. However, installation on a networkserver for the sole purpose of internal distribution shall not constitute “use” for which aseparate license is required, provided you have separate license for each computer towhich the SOFTWARE is distributed.COPYRIGHT. The SOFTWARE is owned by Remote Technologies Incorporated andis protected by United States copyright laws and international treaty provisions.Therefore, you must treat the SOFTWARE like any other copyrighted material (e.g. abook or musical recording) except that you may either (a) make one copy of theSOFTWARE solely for backup or archival purposes, or (b) transfer the SOFTWARE to asingle hard disk provided you keep the original solely for backup or archival purposes.You may not copy the written materials accompanying the SOFTWARE.LIMITED WARRANTY. Remote Technologies Incorporated guarantees that the diskson which the software is distributed are free from defects in materials and workmanshipfor a period of ninety (90) days from the date of purchase. Any written or oralinformation or advice given by Remote Technologies Incorporated distributors, dealers,agents or employees will in no way increase the scope of this warranty. If the softwarefails to meet the specifications of the warranty set forth above, Remote TechnologiesIncorporated liability and your exclusive remedy will be replacement of the CD-ROM orreasonable effort to make the product meet the above warranty specification.LIABILITY. In no event shall Remote Technologies Incorporated or its suppliers beliable for any damages (including but not limited to damages for loss of profits, businessinterruption or loss of information) arising out of the use of or inability to use thissoftware. Because some states do not allow for the exclusion or limitation of liability forconsequential or incidental damages, the above limitation may not apply to you.
Appendix103OTHER RESTRICTIONS. You may not rent or lease the SOFTWARE, but you maytransfer the SOFTWARE accompanying written materials on a permanent basisprovided you retain no copies and the recipient agrees to the terms of this Agreement.You may not reverse engineer, decompile or disassemble the SOFTWARE. If theSOFTWARE is an update or has been updated, any transfer must include the mostrecent update and all prior versions.
TheaterTouch System Controller104Index—A—Adding Text, 21—B—Battery Recharging, 5BEEPER, 10Bitmap Library, 22—C—Change passcode, 12Changing Button Styles, 33Checking Memory Usage, 59Clear all, 14COMPUTER LINK, 13CONTRAST, 9Control Panel Page, 8—D—Deleting Commands from Buttons, 26Deleting Macros from Buttons, 40Design Guidelines, 17difference between Custom Buttons andBitmaps, 77Duplicating Pages, 31—E—Edit Button Properties dialog, 51, 57Editing Macros, 36—I—Inserting a Predefined Page, 33installing TheaterTouch Designer 1.0, 15—L—Linking Pages, 23—M—Merge Pages dialog, 32Merging Pages, 32—P—PageWizard, 33Pasting Buttons, 34Product Contents, 2Programming Overview, 15—R—Remote Memory Used dialog, 59Removing Page Links, 24Renaming a Page, 31Resizing Buttons, 35—S—Software Requirements, 2—T—The Difference Between CustomButtons and Bitmaps, 77Tilt switch, 11Time Out, 10TouchScreen Display, 8—W—Working With Files, 26Working with Pages, 19

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