Onboard 36MB memory is enhanced with a 4GB expansion slot that supports off-the-shelf Type II compact Flash memory and the IBM Microdrive hard disk drive, allowing on-board storage of programme and touchpanel files, room and equipment profiles, firmware, upgrades, databases and schedules.
With this radically new Dual-Bus architecture, blinding speed and massive memory, 2-Series systems are built for high performance, secure Internet communications and dynamic expansion capabilities. The Dual-Bus system also allows for upgrades to new, higher performance expansion cards, while still using your existing cards and software programmes. The 40Mb/s Y-Bus supports existing CNX control cards and serves as the pipeline for IR, serial communications and relays. At the top end of the series, the 300Mb/s Z-Bus is designed for super high-speed control card applications such as 10/100 Ethernet, USB, USBII, FireWire, disk drive arrays and more.
In the UK, Crestron will be giving priority to the lower-cost MP2/MP2E multimedia processor, which provides a complete room control and audio/video switch solution. Included in the package are four IR/Serial ports, two RS-232/422/485 ports, four isolated relays, four inputs ports, an IR receiver port, Cresnet port and 4Mb Flash memory. The MP2E adds connectivity via a 10/100 Ethernet port, featuring static/dynamic IP addressing, built-in web server for help desk functionality, POP3 email server an full compatibility with all e-Control power applications.
Enhanced multimedia switching and touch-panel control comes when the room network is linked to the MMS Multimedia Matrix Switcher and Scan Converter, for high-resolution computers and S-Video source equipment, to one or two display devices.
MP2/MP2E is also supports RoomView Scheduling and Monitoring software - an AV management package, which provides a complete diagnostic and reports equipment status in individual rooms or the entire facility.
(Lee Baldock)
