New 3-Series Controller Review

3-Series Controls Systems Review

The first of the new control system products coming out of NJ R&D will be the MC3. We have had one of these hot little babies in our shop now for almost six months  putting it through its paces with some interesting results. Here are Stats at a Glance;

• Two USB ports that will ultimately provide a wealth of add-ons.
• A pronounced increase in processing power and speed with more memory.
• 10 SIMULTANEOUS PROGRAMS RUNNING. At first Glance you may say "well so what", but read on and I will explain why that will be a leap in automation technology.
• 2 Serial Ports
• 2 Relays
• 2 Input ports
• 5 IR Ports out
• 1 IR Port In
• Stereo Audio In and Out
• MP3/Wave player (a talking automation system!)
• Component/Composite Video Out (OSD!)
• Windows CE embedded operating system.

Some General Comments

Some of these New features need no introduction, but there are a couple that deserve a few words;

• Crestron has never hidden their relationship with Microsoft nor should they with the networking and multi-tasking capabilities MS brings to the table - CE is a great step up though there were really few options. Additionally Crestron can focus on their core needs and leave the operating system to the talent of Microsoft.
• The 2-Series product provides one programming space for the application - sort of a one size fits all arrangement that we all know from the tube sock days can work for or against you. With up to 10 programs running on a single box this could allow a multi-room conference center to run each room from its on virtual control system instead of creating one very large application that is difficult to debug. Other options might be for the home lighting system to run in one space while AV and security each having their own place to run. Then if lighting needs new functions the other running applications are not effected during the upgrade process. The biggest advantage that developers see is the ability to break up complex code into manageable applications which will speed development and debug time.
•  The USB port will be available for easy low cost memory upgrades, but Crestron may eventually add support for many available USB based products. I look forward to plugging in a USB WiFi stick and putting the processor anywhere in range of the WAP with no new cables.
• MP3 play back is another item that seems to get a yawn at first glance. The audio on the MC3 is a simple RCA L/R in and out that just does not excite most AV guys. But consider these uses;

  • "Your meeting is scheduled to conclude in 5 minutes"

  • "The basement door is Open"

  • "Your mother-in-law has entered the driveway. Locking Front Door!"

  • "FIRE - Please exit the building immediately"

• The old control system that was seen but not heard is a thing of the past. Think in a new dimension for future applications.
• Installation Techs will love the ability to display test functions on screen that allow them to test the system and cables before the developer shows up. (Look for our Free Testing Application to be released soon after the MC3 is available).

In conclusion there is a lot to like with this new product and code from existing applications will need only a re-compile to be ready to go. However, don't expect to take advantage of all the new features with out a little bit of a learning curve that may be more than a quick 5 minute read. Regardless you should order one as soon as they hit the street so that you can get your team up to spead.

I would love to hear your comments, just add them below.

Richard Blackwell