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post #1 of 113Old08-10-2012, 04:39 PM - Thread Starter
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I was wondering if anybody here could point me in the right direction to get a head start on my own with Crestron programming? Before anybody asks or tells me I may not have the requirements, I have myself my own login to the Crestron website, and I already have all the software through a valid dealer. I just need to learn how to use this software on my own so I don't have to wait for training or anything to get me started, as I don't know how far out that will be at this time.
Thanks!
Thanks!
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If you have a dealer who was willing to give you access to the Crestron site & software (which if you're not an employee they are in violation of the dealer agreement doing),you can begin with their online classes and register on your own for classes.
If you're access level is that if an end user; you will not be able to do this. You should ask this dealer who gave you all this stuff to help you get registered for classes.
If you're access level is that if an end user; you will not be able to do this. You should ask this dealer who gave you all this stuff to help you get registered for classes.
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You may get the dealer in big trouble with Crestron, posting that info online. Dealer isn't supposed to share the software or login.
Different story if you're an employee of the dealer.
Different story if you're an employee of the dealer.
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Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
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Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
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post #4 of 113Old08-11-2012, 12:14 PM - Thread Starter
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Quote:Originally Posted by Neurorad
You may get the dealer in big trouble with Crestron, posting that info online. Dealer isn't supposed to share the software or login.
Different story if you're an employee of the dealer.
You may get the dealer in big trouble with Crestron, posting that info online. Dealer isn't supposed to share the software or login.
Different story if you're an employee of the dealer.
I'm an employee, they opened up business in my area and got me on working with them now so they can expand their business. These online courses, I actually haven't really done much on the site. Before I was eligible to get access though, I couldn't even find tutorials for anything about Crestron, whether I had the software or not. (Just to try and review material, because I knew I was going to get into Crestron or RTI programming in the near future at that point in time.)
They don't really have anybody yet in my area who is even willing, or capable of doing all the programming, although this is something I am heavily interested in so they want me to be their go to guy for this type of thing eventually for their company to grow in the world of DM. Most of these other people I work with are more interested in the installation. I've been programming in C/C++ and Assembly nearly all my life up to now, and it's still an interest of mine. I'm looking to trying something new now with my background knowledge in programming.
And right now, I don't even hardly know what SIMPL Windows programming looks like.
I've done installations for both RTI and Crestron now, but the software side of things on both ends is like trying to get into fort knox... Finally getting that opportunity with Crestron, but I would like to hear from some other Crestron programmer's around here as to how they think I should be getting started. Right now people out of their HQ in some other location have been doing the programming though for the job i'm currently doing however, so i've really ONLY been able to do the installation half. That's why i'm not getting any programming opportunities here, although i'm not getting any training right away for that reason either. I've got Crestron certification, and i've spoke directly to a Crestron representative about this, and he said I could go for training and that there was stuff online that I could do as well, but he said it may look a bit different to what i'm used to in programming, and that it might take me a bit to get used to.
I am highly interested in trying to get the best possible head start on this type of stuff though.
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These are recs from a relative noob.
1. Subscribe to the Crestron yahoo group.
2. Sign up for training.
3. View the intro videos on the Crestron site.
4. Download the programming software.
5. Look through the demo programs.
6. Skip anything that says System Builder/SB.
7. Get your hands on an MC3 controller.
8. Play with it.
9. Attend training.
Any more experienced Crestron guys, please speak up if this is incorrect.
1. Subscribe to the Crestron yahoo group.
2. Sign up for training.
3. View the intro videos on the Crestron site.
4. Download the programming software.
5. Look through the demo programs.
6. Skip anything that says System Builder/SB.
7. Get your hands on an MC3 controller.
8. Play with it.
9. Attend training.
Any more experienced Crestron guys, please speak up if this is incorrect.
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Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
post #6 of 113Old08-11-2012, 08:09 PM - Thread Starter
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Thankyou for trying to help me out, I appreciate any kind of effort.I wasn't aware that there was a Crestron Yahoo group, but I have a few Crestron products so far. Not an MC3 but an MC2E Control Processor, and a few other devices, including touchpanels, etc...
Quote:
Can you explain this one though? I've heard word from various people that System Builder is the one used for non-programmers, and SIMPL Windows is the one used by people who program the systems? Correct me if i'm wrong there.
My goal here was to at least get to the point where I can create my own Graphical User Interface in SIMPL Windows for the touchpanel and have it communicate to something. I've talked to another fellow Crestron programmer who does most of what i'm interested in doing at the current workplace (why i'm not programming; he's doing it all), and he mentioned that he created all the touchpanel visuals himself in SIMPL Windows.
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There are a few pieces of software that you will need to get familiar with in order to do what you aim to do.
The 3 most maybe prominent are SIMPL windows, VTPROe and Crestron Toolbox.
Basically the programming its self is a product of SIMPL, while the graphics are a product of VTPROe, where Toolbox is a tool set to help communicate and setup your equipment...
I cant imagine doing much of anything useful without being familiar with these.
System Builder is more of a wizard that utilizes these other software pieces and implements previously programmed products of SIMPL, VTPROe.
Its aim is to make use of the Crestron products more simply for those not well familiar with the software stated above.
Usually does what it is intended to do well, but in the world of custom electronics, it is found by many programmers to be too ridged and complex to modify.
That is the jist of it, but I would imagine the training courses will go over all that.
Good luck
The 3 most maybe prominent are SIMPL windows, VTPROe and Crestron Toolbox.
Basically the programming its self is a product of SIMPL, while the graphics are a product of VTPROe, where Toolbox is a tool set to help communicate and setup your equipment...
I cant imagine doing much of anything useful without being familiar with these.
System Builder is more of a wizard that utilizes these other software pieces and implements previously programmed products of SIMPL, VTPROe.
Its aim is to make use of the Crestron products more simply for those not well familiar with the software stated above.
Usually does what it is intended to do well, but in the world of custom electronics, it is found by many programmers to be too ridged and complex to modify.
That is the jist of it, but I would imagine the training courses will go over all that.
Good luck
post #8 of 113Old08-15-2012, 12:38 PM - Thread Starter
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Thanks for that, I knew SIMPL Windows and Crestron Toolbox are very important, this current programmer shows me what he works on from time to time, and that's usually what he has open. As well a couple times DM tool, but that's becuase of the certain system we're designing. VTPRO i've heard a bit about also.
I believe for Crestron Toolbox based on what i've been doing up until now is used to send the program to the devices; communication to and from the device to send and receive the system files?
Training courses, i'm on my w2ay (soon).
I believe for Crestron Toolbox based on what i've been doing up until now is used to send the program to the devices; communication to and from the device to send and receive the system files?
Training courses, i'm on my w2ay (soon).
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You'll need up to date versions of the Crestron Database and Device Database as well. Easiest way to get everything at once is Master Installer.
The best thing, if the Crestron dealer is serious about having you learn programming/etc, would be to give you at least temporary 'dealer' access to the Crestron website/FTP so you can download the software suite.
Or have their current programmer 'remote' in to your computer and log in to Master Installer once to start the download/installation process.
The best thing, if the Crestron dealer is serious about having you learn programming/etc, would be to give you at least temporary 'dealer' access to the Crestron website/FTP so you can download the software suite.
Or have their current programmer 'remote' in to your computer and log in to Master Installer once to start the download/installation process.
post #10 of 113Old08-15-2012, 03:02 PM - Thread Starter
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Quote:Originally Posted by weddellkw
You'll need up to date versions of the Crestron Database and Device Database as well. Easiest way to get everything at once is Master Installer.
The best thing, if the Crestron dealer is serious about having you learn programming/etc, would be to give you at least temporary 'dealer' access to the Crestron website/FTP so you can download the software suite.
Or have their current programmer 'remote' in to your computer and log in to Master Installer once to start the download/installation process.
You'll need up to date versions of the Crestron Database and Device Database as well. Easiest way to get everything at once is Master Installer.
The best thing, if the Crestron dealer is serious about having you learn programming/etc, would be to give you at least temporary 'dealer' access to the Crestron website/FTP so you can download the software suite.
Or have their current programmer 'remote' in to your computer and log in to Master Installer once to start the download/installation process.
But earlier I already mentioned I have the latest software and all that. I just need to learn how to build my own simple system so that I can play around with it and learn to get the general idea down in my head.
I have all the credentials and equipment and software needed to do the programming right now. I just don't have the required knowledge yet to do so, so there's another programmer that flew in from the United States to do the programming here for the system we're installing.
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First thing you need to do is forget everything you know about programming! I am serious. Nothing about Crestron programming (in SMPL) is like normal computer programming. Instead, what they have built is the equiv. of TTL logic that we used to use to design hardware a few decades back. SMPL Windows is a GUI that lets you pull in these logic blocks and interconnect them. That is what they mean by programming. You then design your user interface in VTPro and assign 'join numbers' which you then instantiate in SMPL windows to create actions around them. Forget about all the fun you may have programming in C/C++. This thing will make you want to pull your fingernails out sometimes. Everything you want to do has to be based on pulling in a logic module to do it. There is no such thing as typing 'If this, do that.' The underlying code, SMPL, is C-language like. But you are not allowed to write your whole program in there. But rather, creating more logic modules which you won't have a need to do.
I assume you have some kind of touch panel to start with (I recommend that over iPhone, etc. which requires fair bit of config to get going). If so, try to write the equiv. of 'hello world.' Create a button it that will be used to toggle the internal relays in the controller. Assuming you have installed SMPL Windows, then go there and try to write a program that turns the relay on and off. Without training at Crestron this will probably take a few weeks . I did it over a weekend but you really have to be familiar with the above concepts to be able to get through it all the steps from compiling, to downloading to devices and writing the program.
Start by reading the manual page for SMPL Windows and VTPro. If these two don't get you on the right path then you need to sign up to take the class which unfortunately is not offered on the web. You need to fly to the few locations where they teach them.
I assume you have some kind of touch panel to start with (I recommend that over iPhone, etc. which requires fair bit of config to get going). If so, try to write the equiv. of 'hello world.' Create a button it that will be used to toggle the internal relays in the controller. Assuming you have installed SMPL Windows, then go there and try to write a program that turns the relay on and off. Without training at Crestron this will probably take a few weeks . I did it over a weekend but you really have to be familiar with the above concepts to be able to get through it all the steps from compiling, to downloading to devices and writing the program.
Start by reading the manual page for SMPL Windows and VTPro. If these two don't get you on the right path then you need to sign up to take the class which unfortunately is not offered on the web. You need to fly to the few locations where they teach them.
post #12 of 113Old08-15-2012, 04:17 PM - Thread Starter
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Quote:Originally Posted by amirm
First thing you need to do is forget everything you know about programming! I am serious. Nothing about Crestron programming (in SMPL) is like normal computer programming. Instead, what they have built is the equiv. of TTL logic that we used to use to design hardware a few decades back. SMPL Windows is a GUI that lets you pull in these logic blocks and interconnect them. That is what they mean by programming. You then design your user interface in VTPro and assign 'join numbers' which you then instantiate in SMPL windows to create actions around them. Forget about all the fun you may have programming in C/C++. This thing will make you want to pull your fingernails out sometimes. Everything you want to do has to be based on pulling in a logic module to do it. There is no such thing as typing 'If this, do that.' The underlying code, SMPL, is C-language like. But you are not allowed to write your whole program in there. But rather, creating more logic modules which you won't have a need to do.
I assume you have some kind of touch panel to start with (I recommend that over iPhone, etc. which requires fair bit of config to get going). If so, try to write the equiv. of 'hello world.' Create a button it that will be used to toggle the internal relays in the controller. Assuming you have installed SMPL Windows, then go there and try to write a program that turns the relay on and off. Without training at Crestron this will probably take a few weeks . I did it over a weekend but you really have to be familiar with the above concepts to be able to get through it all the steps from compiling, to downloading to devices and writing the program.
Start by reading the manual page for SMPL Windows and VTPro. If these two don't get you on the right path then you need to sign up to take the class which unfortunately is not offered on the web. You need to fly to the few locations where they teach them.
First thing you need to do is forget everything you know about programming! I am serious. Nothing about Crestron programming (in SMPL) is like normal computer programming. Instead, what they have built is the equiv. of TTL logic that we used to use to design hardware a few decades back. SMPL Windows is a GUI that lets you pull in these logic blocks and interconnect them. That is what they mean by programming. You then design your user interface in VTPro and assign 'join numbers' which you then instantiate in SMPL windows to create actions around them. Forget about all the fun you may have programming in C/C++. This thing will make you want to pull your fingernails out sometimes. Everything you want to do has to be based on pulling in a logic module to do it. There is no such thing as typing 'If this, do that.' The underlying code, SMPL, is C-language like. But you are not allowed to write your whole program in there. But rather, creating more logic modules which you won't have a need to do.
I assume you have some kind of touch panel to start with (I recommend that over iPhone, etc. which requires fair bit of config to get going). If so, try to write the equiv. of 'hello world.' Create a button it that will be used to toggle the internal relays in the controller. Assuming you have installed SMPL Windows, then go there and try to write a program that turns the relay on and off. Without training at Crestron this will probably take a few weeks . I did it over a weekend but you really have to be familiar with the above concepts to be able to get through it all the steps from compiling, to downloading to devices and writing the program.
Start by reading the manual page for SMPL Windows and VTPro. If these two don't get you on the right path then you need to sign up to take the class which unfortunately is not offered on the web. You need to fly to the few locations where they teach them.
This is very interesting... By your word from what i'm used to programming this will be a breeze! I've done tons of stuff down the the kernel in Windows, and to move to this where all you do is arrange logic blocks... At first impression you can't blame me for thinking that this is like lego. Wow.
Is there any SDK's for Crestron? I think I have one for e-Control, but i've heard they are trying to move or support the C# language with Crestron programming? They'll probably have to release their own library for that to ever happen though since the .NET framework was built around the Windows operating system and not Crestron.
I've heard things, but honestly until I get a better 'insider' look at Crestron programming, I can't say I know for sure on anything.
TTL logic, that's my research for today I guess
Quote:
The underlying code, SMPL, is C-language like. But you are not allowed to write your whole program in there.
Can I ask you if you know what this underlying code is for then? Is there any reason or need to modify this code? Can I (will Crestron allow it)?
If I can create Logic modules? What would be the best case or reason for somebody doing that then if they allow you the option to do it?
Thanks for the information, I knew this would be a good place to come for information, instead of just keeping in the dark and trying to figure everything out on my own. Because i'm a smart guy, but i'll be the first to admit that I don't know everything, so the best I can do is just learn as much as I can through others who have more knowledge in a particular field than I do.
Really appreciate it everyone! and thanks again amirm
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Quote:Originally Posted by AceInfinity
This is very interesting... By your word from what i'm used to programming this will be a breeze! I've done tons of stuff down the the kernel in Windows, and to move to this where all you do is arrange logic blocks... At first impression you can't blame me for thinking that this is like lego. Wow.
I am also a Kernel programmer and unfortunately that skill does not get you anywhere either. Yes, instantiating blocks on the screen is easy. But you have to completely change your ideas of how you write programs. You need to learn about such things as one-shot timers, debouncers, etc. This is the sample UI:This is very interesting... By your word from what i'm used to programming this will be a breeze! I've done tons of stuff down the the kernel in Windows, and to move to this where all you do is arrange logic blocks... At first impression you can't blame me for thinking that this is like lego. Wow.
You have to manually interconnect all of those blocks. There are no loops, no if statements, no assignments, etc. Instead there are 'logic flows,' 'edge triggers,' etc.
Quote:
Is there any SDK's for Crestron? I think I have one for e-Control, but i've heard they are trying to move or support the C# language with Crestron programming?
That was the plan but they have yet to deliver. They were supposed to move to Visual Studios type of IDE and better GUI creation than the crude VTPro but it is still not there. Once they go there, it will obsolete what you are about to learn .Quote:
Can I ask you if you know what this underlying code is for then? Is there any reason or need to modify this code? Can I (will Crestron allow it)?
The underlying code is C language compiled using GNU compiler. SIMPL Windows is just a front-end/code generation tool. It will spit out C code that the GNU compiler in turn compiles into machine language. There is a simple event driven engine that executes the building blocks in SMPL Windows. Per my earlier post, you can program in C but they become modules and cannot describe the whole system.Quote:
If I can create Logic modules? What would be the best case or reason for somebody doing that then if they allow you the option to do it?
The modules are there for things that can't easily be built out of logic blocks. Let's say you wanted to apply some math function to a value. You would write that in SIMPL and make a block out of it that would then process values coming to it from SMPL Windows. Folks also use them to build the equiv. of device drivers. It is a crude form of object oriented programming.Quote:
Thanks for the information, I knew this would be a good place to come for information, instead of just keeping in the dark and trying to figure everything out on my own. Because i'm a smart guy, but i'll be the first to admit that I don't know everything, so the best I can do is just learn as much as I can through others who have more knowledge in a particular field than I do.
Really appreciate it everyone! and thanks again amirm
You are welcome . I learned Crestron on my own with no help. I wish someone had described what I just said to me as that would have saved me good bit of head scratching . Really appreciate it everyone! and thanks again amirm
post #14 of 113Old08-15-2012, 05:33 PM - Thread Starter
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Quote:Originally Posted by amirm
I am also a Kernel programmer and unfortunately that skill does not get you anywhere either. Yes, instantiating blocks on the screen is easy. But you have to completely change your ideas of how you write programs. You need to learn about such things as one-shot timers, debouncers, etc. This is the sample UI:
You have to manually interconnect all of those blocks. There are no loops, no if statements, no assignments, etc. Instead there are 'logic flows,' 'edge triggers,' etc.
That was the plan but they have yet to deliver. They were supposed to move to Visual Studios type of IDE and better GUI creation than the crude VTPro but it is still not there. Once they go there, it will obsolete what you are about to learn .
The underlying code is C language compiled using GNU compiler. SIMPL Windows is just a front-end/code generation tool. It will spit out C code that the GNU compiler in turn compiles into machine language. There is a simple event driven engine that executes the building blocks in SMPL Windows. Per my earlier post, you can program in C but they become modules and cannot describe the whole system.
The modules are there for things that can't easily be built out of logic blocks. Let's say you wanted to apply some math function to a value. You would write that in SIMPL and make a block out of it that would then process values coming to it from SMPL Windows. Folks also use them to build the equiv. of device drivers. It is a crude form of object oriented programming.
You are welcome . I learned Crestron on my own with no help. I wish someone had described what I just said to me as that would have saved me good bit of head scratching .
Quote:I am also a Kernel programmer and unfortunately that skill does not get you anywhere either. Yes, instantiating blocks on the screen is easy. But you have to completely change your ideas of how you write programs. You need to learn about such things as one-shot timers, debouncers, etc. This is the sample UI:
You have to manually interconnect all of those blocks. There are no loops, no if statements, no assignments, etc. Instead there are 'logic flows,' 'edge triggers,' etc.
That was the plan but they have yet to deliver. They were supposed to move to Visual Studios type of IDE and better GUI creation than the crude VTPro but it is still not there. Once they go there, it will obsolete what you are about to learn .
The underlying code is C language compiled using GNU compiler. SIMPL Windows is just a front-end/code generation tool. It will spit out C code that the GNU compiler in turn compiles into machine language. There is a simple event driven engine that executes the building blocks in SMPL Windows. Per my earlier post, you can program in C but they become modules and cannot describe the whole system.
The modules are there for things that can't easily be built out of logic blocks. Let's say you wanted to apply some math function to a value. You would write that in SIMPL and make a block out of it that would then process values coming to it from SMPL Windows. Folks also use them to build the equiv. of device drivers. It is a crude form of object oriented programming.
You are welcome . I learned Crestron on my own with no help. I wish someone had described what I just said to me as that would have saved me good bit of head scratching .
Once they go there, it will obsolete what you are about to learn .
Hahaha, I'm used to that, the switch from Windows development on earlier systems to the new Windows 8 and former 'Metro' UI with WPF is a switchover for sure. One of the many things that sets you back before you can start stepping forward again that i've encountered in the technical world It's great though, technology is advancing so quick, that's why I like it, you're not doing the same things over and over, and you're almost like a student all over again.
See i'm used to C++/C, GNU, and OOC. So I have the background knowledge but there's that one fence I still have to climb over to see what's going on in the world of SIMPL Windows and Crestron...
Quote:
So it is possible -- At least I know i'm not going to reach a dead end if some time and effort is put into it. Kudo's for that, that's pretty good you were able to learn it on your own with no help. I know lots of people that couldn't do that, but that's the way i've been learning nearly most of what I know today, outside of what school has taught me so I could forget all of it later on haha.
I do appreciate this though, your time is definitely not being wasted here...
I've currently got a MC2E 2 series controller, and that touchpanel you assumed I had, is an ST-1700C wireless one way. I've also got a CNRFGWA RF Receiver that I believe is needed, otherwise I can't communicate with the Touchpanel at all to send information back to the MC2E? I've got a few other touchpanels, but I think this would be an interesting starting system for me.
Trying to get control from the touchpanel's actions may be a bonus, I just want to see if I can get things communicating in some way, doesn't matter what it is.
Goals:
-Creating my own Touchpanel GUI
-Communicating through the RF receiver from the Touchpanel (possibly to do something else later on, if I get that far)
I'll progress from there and build onto this test improv system as I go along. I've got a basic idea of what my devices do though, i've read all the Crestron documentation for what i've got. Maybe at some point in time i'll give in and see if I can create my own system for my house in the future!
Not yet sure if i'm doing this right, but i've started by adding my controller, which is the first step I believe, and now building the system off that main 'brain'.
This 300ft range on the RF signal from my touchpanel is plenty for basically anything i'll be doing though just for the learning.
P.S. I noticed my name and my dealer are in the System Config I basically get my signature on any system programming i'll be doing in the future I guess.
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Aceinfinity is slightly ahead of me. I've used Toolbox to make the connection between my PC and a Pro2, via an Edgeport USB-serial adapter.
Any recs for a TP? I could actually use a TPMC-8x eventually, and it appears to be Core3 compatible, so I'm leaning in that direction. (EDIT - no, they're not)
Where does Simpl+ fit in? Seems that I need to become familiar with the limitations of Simpl before I understand the need for Simpl+.
Any recs for a TP? I could actually use a TPMC-8x eventually, and it appears to be Core3 compatible, so I'm leaning in that direction. (EDIT - no, they're not)
Where does Simpl+ fit in? Seems that I need to become familiar with the limitations of Simpl before I understand the need for Simpl+.
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Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
post #16 of 113Old08-15-2012, 07:47 PM - Thread Starter
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Quote:Originally Posted by Neurorad
Aceinfinity is slightly ahead of me. I've used Toolbox to make the connection between my PC and a Pro2, via an Edgeport USB-serial adapter.
Any recs for a TP? I could actually use a TPMC-8x eventually, and it appears to be Core3 compatible, so I'm leaning in that direction.
Where does Simpl+ fit in? Seems that I need to become familiar with the limitations of Simpl before I understand the need for Simpl+.
Aceinfinity is slightly ahead of me. I've used Toolbox to make the connection between my PC and a Pro2, via an Edgeport USB-serial adapter.
Any recs for a TP? I could actually use a TPMC-8x eventually, and it appears to be Core3 compatible, so I'm leaning in that direction.
Where does Simpl+ fit in? Seems that I need to become familiar with the limitations of Simpl before I understand the need for Simpl+.
From the least that I know Core3 UI seems to be fairly nice for the GUI creation side of things. When I did research just to learn what my programs did, it was fairly appealing to me at first.
I've always wondered that as well, SIMPL+ vs. SIMPL Windows, in my SIMPL Windows program I notice SIMPL+ stuff, but I believe there was a tidbit of information in a PDF I found online for that distinction. I'll share it with you. http://www.crestron.com/downloads/pdf/product_misc/pg_sw-simpl-plus.pdf
Those TPMC 8's are very nice looking as well! What I am currently installing for our customer I believe, is a TPMC-9... But the actual boxes they come in have the documentation booklet for it all, I just don't have that title in my head to be sure that it said it was a TPMC-9, but they look like the exact ones i'm using. Man, they look nice though.
But now there's the whole touchpanel vs. 'I can use my iPad/iTouch/iPhone for controlling this stuff' debate going on... People generally choose the apple devices for non-commercial stuff nowadays because:
a) It's less expensive than a nice looking touchpanel
b) It's more justified: - I buy an iPhone/iPad, I get to use it for what it's intended for, and controlling my system at the same time, no limitations, and it's portable.
So I guess when the future comes for me, that's what i'll be doing for residential, and commercial, which is the gig i'm currently in, mostly touchpanels.
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Quote:Originally Posted by Neurorad
Aceinfinity is slightly ahead of me. I've used Toolbox to make the connection between my PC and a Pro2, via an Edgeport USB-serial adapter.
Any recs for a TP? I could actually use a TPMC-8x eventually, and it appears to be Core3 compatible, so I'm leaning in that direction.
My method of using Crestron is a remote control with touch screen for the living room where I need hard buttons for up/down and need small form factor. Here is my choice for that: (MTX-3)http://www.crestron.com/resources/product_and_programming_resources/catalogs_and_brochures/online_catalog/default.asp?type=commercial&cat=1009&subcat=1031&id=2114. It is much cheaper than normal touch panels and more usable in that application. For other cases where you need a big touch screen, my choice would be the iPad. Yes you lose hard buttons and you have to wake up the darn thing but the cost savings are substantial. Per above, if I need hard button, I use traditional remotes.Aceinfinity is slightly ahead of me. I've used Toolbox to make the connection between my PC and a Pro2, via an Edgeport USB-serial adapter.
Any recs for a TP? I could actually use a TPMC-8x eventually, and it appears to be Core3 compatible, so I'm leaning in that direction.
Quote:
Where does Simpl+ fit in? Seems that I need to become familiar with the limitations of Simpl before I understand the need for Simpl+.
Simpl+ is what I mentioned as plain Simpl. It is the C programming environment to build modules to go into SMPL Windows. You should have no need for it. Location: Washington State
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Quote:Originally Posted by AceInfinity
Not yet sure if i'm doing this right, but i've started by adding my controller, which is the first step I believe, and now building the system off that main 'brain'.
It is. Build a simple program in it -- it can be anything -- compile and download it into the box. That way you learn what is involved in the work flow there. Ditto for getting your program into the touch-screen. Once you have all those basics, then try to control the relays which you can hear toggling if all works. This way you don't need any other equipment. Not yet sure if i'm doing this right, but i've started by adding my controller, which is the first step I believe, and now building the system off that main 'brain'.
post #19 of 113Old08-15-2012, 08:58 PM - Thread Starter
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I've gone through and marked your posts helpful amirm. I have 100% respect for you. You've been super helpful, and i'm grateful for how much I've learned from you just within these posts of yours. Things are starting to slowly make sense for me. I'll be on this forum for some time to come just because of you. I can see this being a great community to be for expanding my knowledge, and hopefully in the future I can be as generous as you in terms of sharing my knowledge and experience with others.
I've spent countless hours like you wouldn't believe just reading documentation for months up until I could actually use the program along with a few other things on the Crestron website, but I had no idea what I was doing. I only had the experience installing these devices and putting systems together. If I get the chance I plan to move forward to my DMC-E certification at some point in time.
Seriously though, I appreciate your efforts here. Thanks The sky is the limit.
Regards,
AceInfinity
I've spent countless hours like you wouldn't believe just reading documentation for months up until I could actually use the program along with a few other things on the Crestron website, but I had no idea what I was doing. I only had the experience installing these devices and putting systems together. If I get the chance I plan to move forward to my DMC-E certification at some point in time.
Seriously though, I appreciate your efforts here. Thanks The sky is the limit.
Regards,
AceInfinity
[Microsoft Developer MVP - 2012 - Present]
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Much agreed with AceInfinity - thanks so much Amir, I don't thank you often enough!
Since I have no defined endpoint to my project, I'll probably hold off on the handheld for a year or 2, until I've figured out some basics, and Crestron has more handheld RC options.
Although the TPMC-8X has some QC limitations, I think it will serve my needs well for a temporary solution, on the test bench. Some items in the workshop to practice control include Nuvo GC, RA2, and LG TV.
Amir, I've read of workarounds in the yahoo group to keep the ipad awake, or isolate the ipad use to a single app, if you want to explore that further.
This seems as good a place as any to document a few basic knowledge items:
1. Pro2 detachable terminal blocks/Phoenix connectors (3.5mm pitch) can be purchased from EasyAdapters.com. Specific distributor links from the yahoo group are dead.
2. Any straight through serial cable can be used to connect a Pro2 to a laptop. As AceInfinity has stated, only certain pins are necessary, but the extra pin connections do not interfere with the initial setup. No serial cable manufacturing skills required.
3. Monoprice is a great source for RJ45-serial adapters - for making serial cables.
I have a feeling that most residential devices to be controlled will be using IP. How valid is that theory?
Since I have no defined endpoint to my project, I'll probably hold off on the handheld for a year or 2, until I've figured out some basics, and Crestron has more handheld RC options.
Although the TPMC-8X has some QC limitations, I think it will serve my needs well for a temporary solution, on the test bench. Some items in the workshop to practice control include Nuvo GC, RA2, and LG TV.
Amir, I've read of workarounds in the yahoo group to keep the ipad awake, or isolate the ipad use to a single app, if you want to explore that further.
This seems as good a place as any to document a few basic knowledge items:
1. Pro2 detachable terminal blocks/Phoenix connectors (3.5mm pitch) can be purchased from EasyAdapters.com. Specific distributor links from the yahoo group are dead.
2. Any straight through serial cable can be used to connect a Pro2 to a laptop. As AceInfinity has stated, only certain pins are necessary, but the extra pin connections do not interfere with the initial setup. No serial cable manufacturing skills required.
3. Monoprice is a great source for RJ45-serial adapters - for making serial cables.
I have a feeling that most residential devices to be controlled will be using IP. How valid is that theory?
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Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
Location: Washington State
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Thanks for the kind words guys! Much appreciated.
On phoenix connectors I once found a guy on eBay that was selling them cheap. So you may want to look there if you need some.
Back to programming, even a simpler 'hello world' is to have the relay click on its own. That way, you don't even need the touch panel. Just have it go on end off every 2 seconds and you should be able to hear it click away.
On phoenix connectors I once found a guy on eBay that was selling them cheap. So you may want to look there if you need some.
Back to programming, even a simpler 'hello world' is to have the relay click on its own. That way, you don't even need the touch panel. Just have it go on end off every 2 seconds and you should be able to hear it click away.
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The best way to get a handle on Simpl is to grab a used processor and wired touch panel and one device. Select a IR controlled device that is in the Crestron database to simplify things. Set your self a goal to just make that SOB turn on frm the TP. Once you figure that out, you'll be hooked and will find your self wanting to try harder and harder things just to see if it can be done. A couple of hundred spent on Ebay will give you all you need to practice at home. That's how I did it and I lost the bet. Don't ask.
Current owner of the last/best AmPro on the planet. The mighty 4600HD, and it's still running...better than Barco's, especially southern ones.
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The eBay guy has recently only offered 5 mm pitch TBs. Easyadapters guy was very helpful, and they appear to be a perfect fit.
Anyone know if all TPMC-8X units are Core 3 compatible? I think I saw documentation that they were on the upgrade path, but can't find the link again.
Anyone know if all TPMC-8X units are Core 3 compatible? I think I saw documentation that they were on the upgrade path, but can't find the link again.
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Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
post #24 of 113Old08-17-2012, 04:36 PM - Thread Starter
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Neurorad, I actually believe I have a TPMC-8 Wifi Touchpanel... I'll have to go check my boxes later. But take a look here: http://www.crestron.com/resources/product_and_programming_resources/catalogs_and_brochures/online_catalog/default.asp?jump=1&model=tpmc-8x
Use the product search on the Crestron website, i've been reading through these PDF's they provide all day for a few days in a row almost, so it's molded into the back of my brain that this is some place to go when I need help; a good place to go.
What i've got so far, is my system designed in SIMPL Windows, and a GUI created for 2 pages in VTPro-e for my ST1700C. The join numbers are a bit confusing, not sure how to assign them, my box number on the actual on screen/page object only shows 0. Unless that's okay for my little experiment but i'm still trying to figure out how they work. Next i'll have to see how I exactly join things together, and how I assign events. I'm assuming I have to find modules somewhere in... SIMPL Windows? I'm guessing??... To do this for me? But if that's the case figuring out how to get that VTPro-e project into SIMPL Windows or at least reference my join numbers to assign events to these GUI objects.
Really I have more questions than answers for the stage i'm at, but I think that's a hint that I should be reading the manuals over again. I'm maybe 1/3 of the way in. Last step though and I know i'll be troubleshooting this probably, is finding out how to compile everything together.
EDIT: Nope! sorry, it's a TPMC-10 that I have, I knew I had a TPMC wifi touchpanel but I wasn't sure just by reading here, without seeing at least a picture to compare.
@Neurorad - READ THIS: http://www.crestron.com/resources/product_and_programming_resources/catalogs_and_brochures/online_catalog/default.asp?jump=1&model=CORE_3_UI
The software page lists out the compatible devices.
Use the product search on the Crestron website, i've been reading through these PDF's they provide all day for a few days in a row almost, so it's molded into the back of my brain that this is some place to go when I need help; a good place to go.
What i've got so far, is my system designed in SIMPL Windows, and a GUI created for 2 pages in VTPro-e for my ST1700C. The join numbers are a bit confusing, not sure how to assign them, my box number on the actual on screen/page object only shows 0. Unless that's okay for my little experiment but i'm still trying to figure out how they work. Next i'll have to see how I exactly join things together, and how I assign events. I'm assuming I have to find modules somewhere in... SIMPL Windows? I'm guessing??... To do this for me? But if that's the case figuring out how to get that VTPro-e project into SIMPL Windows or at least reference my join numbers to assign events to these GUI objects.
Really I have more questions than answers for the stage i'm at, but I think that's a hint that I should be reading the manuals over again. I'm maybe 1/3 of the way in. Last step though and I know i'll be troubleshooting this probably, is finding out how to compile everything together.
EDIT: Nope! sorry, it's a TPMC-10 that I have, I knew I had a TPMC wifi touchpanel but I wasn't sure just by reading here, without seeing at least a picture to compare.
@Neurorad - READ THIS: http://www.crestron.com/resources/product_and_programming_resources/catalogs_and_brochures/online_catalog/default.asp?jump=1&model=CORE_3_UI
The software page lists out the compatible devices.
[Microsoft Developer MVP - 2012 - Present]
®Crestron DMC-T Certified Technician & Aspiring Programmer
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The join numbers seem convoluted at first but they are not. You simply assign unique numbers to your UI elements. Then when you instantiate the module for that touchscreen in SIMPL WIndows, it will have a number of 'press' pins that correspond to them. For example if you assign digital join number 20 to a button that says 'Power ON,' then the corresponding pin with the name 'press20' in SIMPL Windows goes 'high' when you press that button on the touch panel when the system is running.
Per my earlier note, I suggest first getting a program working independent of the touchscreen as otherwise there are a lot of things that have to fall in place for anything to work.
Per my earlier note, I suggest first getting a program working independent of the touchscreen as otherwise there are a lot of things that have to fall in place for anything to work.
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Just noticed that the demo page I linked to earlier has a touchscreen visible together with the press pins that I talked about.
post #27 of 113Old08-17-2012, 05:04 PM - Thread Starter
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Alright, thanks for the information amirm Join numbers are essentially numbers that correspond to specific actions or events then? And depending on what join numbers you assigned each element decide what each number and action/event are linked to? Simple enough concept.
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I remember the story, stefuel. IIRC, you were pretty darn close, though.
The new TPs are really, really nice looking. I'd take those over an on-wall or docked iPad every time. Wife doesn't put anything back where it belongs...
The new TPs are really, really nice looking. I'd take those over an on-wall or docked iPad every time. Wife doesn't put anything back where it belongs...
----------------------------------------------
Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
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Thanks, AceInfinity! That's the page I couldn't find.
What does the -GA designate, in the model TPMC-8X-GA?
What does the -GA designate, in the model TPMC-8X-GA?
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Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. -Buddha
Give a monkey a brain and he'll swear he's the center of the universe. -Fishbone
Location: Washington State
Mentioned: 6 Post(s)
Quoted: 1334 Post(s)
Quote:Originally Posted by AceInfinity
Alright, thanks for the information amirm Join numbers are essentially numbers that correspond to specific actions or events then? And depending on what join numbers you assigned each element decide what each number and action/event are linked to? Simple enough concept.
That's right. They are shared members of an object that happen to have numbers as names. Alright, thanks for the information amirm Join numbers are essentially numbers that correspond to specific actions or events then? And depending on what join numbers you assigned each element decide what each number and action/event are linked to? Simple enough concept.
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