Niles Audio Corporation
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`IntelliControl Reference Manual
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`Version 8.1 April 2002
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`Universal Remote Control Exhibit: 1004 Page 000001
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`Contents
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`1A. IntelliControl Features and Benefits ...................................................................................................................1
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`A Complete System......................................................................................................................................................1
`One Touch “Intelligent Macros” To Turn The Entire Home Theater On or Off....................................................2
`Automatically Unmute the System..............................................................................................................................2
`Manage and Automate “Unfriendly” Components ..................................................................................................2
`Trigger Screens, Screen Masking Devices, Projector Lifts, Curtains and Drapes .................................................2
`PC Programmable with IntelliFile II.........................................................................................................................2
`Proudly Made in USA.................................................................................................................................................3
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`1B. IntelliControl Parts Guide.....................................................................................................................................3
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`The Tabletop Remote..................................................................................................................................................3
`The Main System Unit (MSU) ....................................................................................................................................4
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`1C. Selling the System...................................................................................................................................................6
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`Selling Automated Home Theater Systems ................................................................................................................6
`Solving The Problems of Conventional Home Theater Operation...........................................................................6
`Problem One: Turning the System On ..................................................................................................................6
`The IntelliControl Solution: Syncronization (Sync) .............................................................................................6
`Problem Two: Selecting Inputs & Modes.............................................................................................................8
`The IntelliControl Solution: Software Managers to Select Inputs and Modes....................................................8
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`2A. Power Syncronization..........................................................................................................................................11
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`Infrared Turn On/Off Requires “Sync”...................................................................................................................11
`Components that Don’t Need Sync – Those with Latching Power.........................................................................11
`Remember the Exception – Tuners built into Receivers and Televisions...............................................................12
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`2B. Sync Methods and Options .................................................................................................................................12
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`Video Sync.................................................................................................................................................................13
`Syncing the TV.....................................................................................................................................................13
`12 Volt Sync...............................................................................................................................................................13
`1. 12V DC Sync via a Wall Adapter Plugged into a Switched AC Outlet......................................................13
`2. Niles LS-1 Light Sensor................................................................................................................................14
`3. Niles OTI-512 Voltage Sensor.......................................................................................................................14
`4. Niles APC-2 Current Sensing Switcher ........................................................................................................14
`5. Niles IPC-6 Current Sensing AC Power Controller .....................................................................................14
`Each Sync Connection on the Main System Unit Corresponds to a Particular Master Key on the Tabletop
`Remote.......................................................................................................................................................................15
`Conventional Labeling Rule: Video on the Left, Everything Else on the Right.....................................................16
`Once Again: Remember the Exception...............................................................................................................16
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`2C. Component Compatibility ..................................................................................................................................16
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`Infrared Compatibility ..............................................................................................................................................16
`Testing Components for Automation Conflicts........................................................................................................17
`Testing Components for Sync Method .....................................................................................................................18
`Sync Off Delay .....................................................................................................................................................18
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`3A. Pages, Keys, and Sequences................................................................................................................................22
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`An Address For Every IR Command........................................................................................................................23
`Issue A Sequence From A Function Key..................................................................................................................23
`Purpose of the Master Key Pages............................................................................................................................24
`Purpose of the Default Page.....................................................................................................................................24
`Purpose of the Library Pages...................................................................................................................................25
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`3B. Master Key Automation: Part 1 - One Touch System Turn On...................................................................25
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`Sync Snapshot............................................................................................................................................................26
`Event One – Initial Sequence....................................................................................................................................26
`Event Two - TV Power..............................................................................................................................................27
`Event Three - Preamp Power...................................................................................................................................27
`Event Four - Component Power (Not Applicable to Master Keys Nine and Ten).................................................27
`Event Five - TV Input................................................................................................................................................27
`Event Six - Preamp Input..........................................................................................................................................27
`Event Seven - Surround Mode..................................................................................................................................27
`Event Eight - Ending Sequence ................................................................................................................................27
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`3C. Master Keys: Part 2 - Special Features............................................................................................................28
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`Automation Bypass for Manually Adjusted Features..............................................................................................28
`Automation Bypass for a Typical Application....................................................................................................28
`How to Program “Component Power” for Multiple Master Keys which Share a Common Source..................29
`Press and Hold a Master Key...................................................................................................................................30
`Custom Programming for Preamp/Receivers with Separate On/Off Commands.................................................31
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`3D. Master Keys: Part 3 - Direct IR, Sequence IR, and Managers .....................................................................31
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`Direct IR - A Different “Single” IR Code for each of the Component’s Inputs.....................................................31
`Testing Direct IR ..................................................................................................................................................31
`Sequence IR— a Single “Input Toggle” Command and a Secret Back-Door “Anchor” Command(s) ..............31
`Finding the Secret Back-Door “Anchor” Command..........................................................................................32
`Testing the “Anchor” Command .........................................................................................................................32
`Input Manager – For Components with only a Single “Input Toggle” Command...............................................32
`Testing the “Input Manager” Method..................................................................................................................32
`Determine the “Defaults”.....................................................................................................................................32
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`3E. Master Keys: Part 4 – Intelligent System Turn Off ........................................................................................33
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`Event 1 - “System Off” Initial Sequence..................................................................................................................33
`Event 2 - TV Auto Turn Off.......................................................................................................................................33
`Event 3 - Auto Volume Reset ....................................................................................................................................33
`Event 4 - Preamp Auto Turn Off ..............................................................................................................................33
`Event 5 - Component Auto Turn Off ........................................................................................................................33
`Event 6 - “System Off” Ending Sequence................................................................................................................33
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`3F. The Audio, Video, and Assignable Relays with Control Voltage Output ....................................................34
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`Relay Voltage Limitations.........................................................................................................................................34
`Audio 12V Output .....................................................................................................................................................34
`Video 12V Output and Relay....................................................................................................................................34
`Assignable 12V Output and Relay............................................................................................................................34
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`3G. Utilities...................................................................................................................................................................35
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`ID Code .....................................................................................................................................................................35
`Volume Reset.............................................................................................................................................................35
`IR Routing..................................................................................................................................................................35
`Dual TV .....................................................................................................................................................................36
`Mute Manager...........................................................................................................................................................36
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`4A. Using Your Original Remote Controls via an IR Repeater System.............................................................37
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`Integrating a Second Zone........................................................................................................................................37
`Turning On Common Sources in Multi-Zone Systems............................................................................................38
`Integrating the Niles RVL-6 and MRZ-6 Multi-Room Controllers.........................................................................39
`Multiple TV Array In A Media Room.......................................................................................................................39
`Integrating the Niles IntelliPad™ Into the Home Theater......................................................................................39
`Integrating a Learning Touchscreen Into An IntelliControl Home Theater..........................................................39
`Teach the RF/IR Conversion Codes for the Master Keys, Function Keys, and System Off Key...........................40
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`Step-by-Step Installation of a New System..............................................................................................................41
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`1. Connect, Power Up, and Test The Home Theater..........................................................................................41
`2. Check MSU Location for Freedom from Interference....................................................................................41
`3. Connect and Power Up the MSU, Your PC, and the IntelliFile II..................................................................41
`5. Testing and Troubleshooting RF Transmission and Reception.......................................................................42
`6. Connect Flashers and Sync Cables...................................................................................................................43
`7. Flasher Level Check ..........................................................................................................................................44
`8. The IR/RF Test LED.........................................................................................................................................45
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`Specifications................................................................................................................................................................46
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`The IntelliControl Tabletop Remote.........................................................................................................................46
`The IntelliControl Main System Unit.......................................................................................................................46
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`Chapter
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`1
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`IntelliControl® Home Theater Automation
`System
`1A. IntelliControl Features and Benefits
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`Introducing the IntelliControl, the world’s first affordable home theater automation system
`expressly designed to provide true one-touch operation. Unlike universal remote controls,
`the IntelliControl System senses the actual on/off state of all of your audio/video
`components. When you press a Master Key, the built-in microprocessor has the
`intelligence to decide which components need to be powered up, depending on what
`Master Key was selected and the On/Off state of the components.
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`After the system components have been turned on, the IntelliControl issues all of the
`necessary surround-sound mode commands, the preamp input selection commands, the
`TV input commands, and any “play” or “favorite station” commands. For the first time,
`most anyone in the family can operate the system without training, prompting or head-
`scratching.
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`Ten Master Keys can be custom labeled to reflect your system components or features.
`When you select a source, it lights up letting you know it’s ready to be controlled.
`Traditional universal remotes are confusing because “aux” might actually select the
`satellite receiver, and “VCR2” selects the TV. Now, each of the sources in your system
`are correctly labeled. By pressing one of these Master “scene-setting” Keys, your system
`is completely turned on, configured, and set up to watch and control the selected source.
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`The only other systems capable of this unique combination of custom labeling and full
`automation of a mixture of multi-brand components are very expensive touchscreen
`automation systems. In addition to the expense, touchscreens are menu-driven, and
`always require more than one step to operate. The IntelliControl offers genuine one-
`touch operation at an affordable price.
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`A Complete System
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`The system consists of an ergonomically designed RF (radio frequency) Tabletop Remote
`Control and an “intelligent” Main System Unit (MSU). Powerful combinations of hardware
`and software functions within the Main System Unit manage and control every aspect of
`the home theater.
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`One Touch “Intelligent Macros” To Turn The Entire Home Theater On or Off
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`Normal home theater system operation requires you to turn on multiple components. It is
`easy to make a mistake, which can create a situation where you must be a detective and
`hunt down the fugitive component that is “off”, when it really should be “on”. The
`IntelliControl eliminates all of this troubleshooting. A single touch of any of the ten installer
`labeled “scene-setting” keys (typically labeled for sources e.g. TV, VCR, CD) will initiate
`an intelligent sequence of commands (macro).
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`The IntelliControl will only issue a component’s power command if it is off. All of the
`necessary components are turned on, every time. After the system components have
`been turned on, the IntelliControl automatically completes the system configuration,
`enabling you to watch and listen to the selected source. Now, a complex mix of different
`brands of audio/video components can be operated with the same ease and simplicity of a
`traditional television set.
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`Automatically Unmute the System
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`Many surround-sound preamps or receivers can unpleasantly surprise you with their
`“mute” functions. For example, if you mute the system to answer a phone call and then
`press a Master Key or the “Volume Up” Key, the volume will be too low. If you first raise
`the volume then remember that you muted it, a press of the “Mute” button will issue a
`deafening blast.
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`The IntelliControl is capable of “managing” the mute command. The system will mute
`when you press the “Mute” key. However, it will now unmute automatically whenever you
`press a Master Key, “Volume Up” or the “Mute” key.
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`Manage and Automate “Unfriendly” Components
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`Many high-performance audio/video components have remote control functions that are
`impossible to automate with conventional automation equipment. The components are
`really just designed for the user who demands manual control at all times. The
`IntelliControl has unique software “managers” which enable complete automation of
`components that are difficult to automate. For the first time, components chosen for
`optimum performance can be automated using the IntelliControl.
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`Trigger Screens, Screen Masking Devices, Projector Lifts, Curtains and Drapes
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` The IntelliControl provides dedicated 12-volt DC triggers for both the Video and the Audio
`Scenes. The Video scene also triggers a latching (normally open) and a latching (normally
`closed) contact relay. An "assignable" relay and 12v DC voltage can be triggered by any
`key as a step in a programmed sequence. These relays and voltages enable devices
`which are not IR controlled to be automated by the IntelliControl system.
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`PC Programmable with IntelliFile II
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`An IntelliControl system configuration can be programmed, saved, and edited using the
`Niles IntelliFile II Programming Software and interface. A PC running Windows 95 or
`higher is required. Niles does not offer a Mac compatible version at this time.
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`Proudly Made in USA
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`The IntelliControl is designed and built in the USA and comes with a limited two year parts
`and labor warranty.
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` 1B. IntelliControl Parts Guide
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`Figure 1 The IntelliControl Tabletop Remote
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`The Tabletop Remote
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`The Tabletop Remote is a radio frequency (RF) transmitter which communicates with the
`Main System Unit (MSU) on a RF carrier frequency of 418MHz. The Tabletop Remote
`features the following:
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`• Ten Master Keys – The ten Master Keys on the left side of the remote may be
`custom labeled and will initiate the IntelliControl’s automation functions when
`programmed via the IntelliFile II PC Interface and Programming Software. Pressing a
`Master Key will prompt the MSU to check the On/Off status of all of the components in
`the system and issue the necessary IR commands to configure the system so the
`user may enjoy the selected source.
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`• System Off Key – When pressed, the Tabletop Remote will instruct the MSU to
`check the On/Off status of all the components in the system and issue the necessary
`IR commands to power down the system.
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`• Backlight Key – Pressing the Backlight Key (located on the upper left corner of the
`Tabletop Remote) will illuminate all the keys to enable complete control of the system
`in dark rooms.
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`• Function Keys – The thirty-two Function Keys include the numeric, menu, transport,
`mute, volume, and channel keys. Once a Master Key is selected, the Function Keys
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`correspond to the functions of that selected source. However, the volume and mute
`keys are usually programmed to control the preamp only.
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` Figure 2 Main System Unit – Top View
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`Figure 3 Main System Unit – Front View
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`The Main System Unit (MSU)
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`The Main System Unit is the “brain” of the IntelliControl system. Once a RF command is
`issued from the Tabletop Remote, the MSU processes the command and controls all
`functions of the system. All programming is stored inside the MSU. The Main System Unit
`features the following:
`
`• Power Connector – Located on the upper left side of the MSU, the Power Connector
`accommodates a 12V DC 1A UL approved external power supply (XF00044 -
`included).
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`• RF Test Port – Also located on the upper left side of the MSU is the RF Test Port.
`The RF Test Port enables you to receive real-time confirmation that RF signals are
`received and understood, detect interference, and test for sync status. The bicolor
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`RF/IR Test LED (FG00727) is available as an accessory, and should be sold and
`installed in every IntelliControl home theater.
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`• Video Sync Inputs – The eight Composite (RCA) Video Sync Ports are provided to
`sense the on/off power status of IR controlled components with video output. Your
`system design may require additional video cables and “Y” adapters.
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`•
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`12V Sync Inputs – The 12V Sync Inputs are provided to sense the on/off power
`status of IR controlled components. Your system design may require 12V DC wall
`adapters or Niles switchers (APC-2, LS-1, OTI-512) with a 10’ Accessory Cable
`(FG00724).
`
`• Transfer Connector – The three conductor Transfer Connector enables the transfer
`of programming information from the IntelliFile II PC Interface or the original
`IntelliControl Programmer to the MSU and vice versa. You may want to permanently
`install a 20’ Transfer Cable (FG00725) to provide future access for programming
`updates.
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`•
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`•
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`IR Flasher Outputs- The twelve IR Flasher Outputs issue IR codes to IR controlled
`components. Your system design may require IRC-2P MiniFlashers (FG00726)
`and/or 3.5 to 3.5 mono mini-plug cables for hardwired connections to compatible
`components.
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`12V DC Control Voltage Outputs – These connections can be used to trigger
`screens, Niles switchers, and other devices. Your system design may require 10’
`Accessory Cables (FG00724). The IntelliControl features an “Audio 12V” output
`(active whenever a source that utilizes the preamp is selected), a “Video 12V” output
`(active whenever a source that utilizes the TV is selected), and an “Assignable 12V”
`output (activated as part of a sequence with the “Assignable Relay On” command).
`
`• Dry Contact Closures / Relays – These connections can be used to trigger lights,
`curtains, screens, lifts, and other devices. Your system design may require multi-
`conductor cable. The IntelliControl features a “Video Relay” (active whenever a
`source that utilizes the TV is selected), and an “Assignable Relay” (activated as part of
`a sequence with the “Assignable Relay On” command).
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`•
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`IR Data Input Connectors (“Home Theater IR” and “Second Zone IR”) – These
`connections enable IR data to be fed into the MSU from Niles IR sensors, keypads, IR
`Main System Units, or Multi-room Controllers around the house. IR data received at
`the “Home Theater IR” port is passed through all flashers. IR data received at the
`“Second Zone IR” port is passed through flashers 1 – 8 only.
`
`• Antenna Socket – The BNC connector accommodates the supplied antenna. The
`antenna must be installed perpendicular to the ground for best results. A 6 meter
`antenna extension cable and mounting bracket are included if remote installation of
`the antenna is necessary.
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`•
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`IR Flasher Level Controls – The twelve flasher level controls enable the installer to
`control the strength of the IR output sent to each of the components in the system.
`Flasher strength increases as the pots are turned clockwise (a jeweler’s screwdriver is
`required). Before beginning to program the system, it is recommended that a Niles IR
`Sensor be connected to the MSU’s “Home Theater IR” port and each of the flasher
`level adjustments be set using the components’ original remote controls.
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`1C. Selling the System
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`Selling Automated Home Theater Systems
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`In the past, selling a home theater system has always involved system design trade-offs.
`With every profitable upgrade you sell to your customer there is a “hidden” cost to you
`after the installation, which is your time.
`
`Along with selling and installing the system, you must assume the responsibility for training
`the customer to actually use the new features or enjoy the enhanced performance. The
`frustration many consumers feel, even after repeated training sessions, certainly limits
`referrals and sometimes leads to refunds. In any event, the time required to drill customers
`so that they can reliably turn on and operate the system can be ridiculously expensive for
`you and tedious for your customer. The IntelliControl enables you, the salesperson, to
`design and sell absolutely automated home theater systems (systems that require minimal
`training to operate and which generate repeated referrals).
`
`In order to successfully sell the IntelliControl to consumers, you should be able to
`effectively present what “Home Theater Automation” means, in terms the consumer will
`understand. The following sections elaborate how the IntelliControl’s automation differs
`from anything that has ever been sold and installed into a home theater at this price point.
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`Solving The Problems of Conventional Home Theater Operation
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`The IntelliControl uses a unique approach to solve the classic problems of operating a
`home theater. In this section, we will take a closer look at what those problems are, and
`how the IntelliControl solves them.
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`Problem One: Turning the System On
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`In a conventional system, turning on a home theater with a remote control can be so
`difficult, that most people simply walk up to the equipment where they can see each
`component and try to remember what needs to be done. Since most components feature
`“toggle” power commands (one button which turns the component both “On” and “Off”),
`you cannot simply press the power button on each of your remotes in turn or issue a
`macro of many power commands from a sequencing remote or touchscreen. For
`example: If you put the videotape into your VCR, it would automatically turn on, and the
`act of pressing the power button on each of your remotes (or pressing the macro button on
`your touchscreen) would turn on the rest of your system, but would turn off the VCR).
`
`The IntelliControl Solution: Syncronization (Sync)
`
`The IntelliControl’s Main System Unit is connected to all of the home theater components.
`Its unique video and 12V sensing circuits enable it to actually “know” whether each
`component is on or off.
`
`When the user presses any Master Key, the IntelliControl’s microprocessor checks the
`power status of each component and synchronizes the system to the end user’s desires
`by issuing only the necessary power commands. No matter what their previous on or off
`states, the IntelliControl will know exactly which components need to be powered up.
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`Power synchronization is not just used when the system is first turned on. It is also used
`when a new Master Key is selected. The IntelliControl checks to see if anything needs to
`be turned on or off, and issues the necessary power commands.
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` Figure 4 System Schematic
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`Problem Two: Selecting Inputs & Modes
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`Home theaters need to have the surround receiver’s audio inputs selected, the correct
`surround-sound mode selected, and the correct TV input selected. Even if there is a
`separate button for every mode or input, the user must remember which input label is
`correct for each component and keep track of which remote is which. Although some
`remotes have the ability to issue “macros”, most systems incorporate at least one
`component that is “macro-proof” (a component that uses a single “INPUT” or “MODE”
`command to cycle through all of the choices). There is no way for the remote control to
`“know” which input was last selected. So, the consumer must remember which input it was
`and cycle through the choices manually. Operation is frustratingly complex for anyone.
`
`The IntelliControl Solution: Software Managers to Select Inputs and Modes
`
`The IntelliControl’s Main System Unit is programmed with powerful software “managers”
`that automate Input and Mode selection. No