Installation guide
Programming Crestron Controllers for a Kaleidescape System
Page 26
Scalability
The complexity of the Kaleidescape modules is demanding on a Crestron
processor. A single, dedicated Crestron CP2E can support the following modules:
Up to 15 OSD modules;
Up to 15 SATP modules with five users actively browsing; OR
Over 90 keypad modules.
System builder
Imported modules are not currently compatible with System Builder. To be used in
System Builder, the modules and templates must be modified. To make this
process easier, virtual connection logic and device support definitions have been
included in the modules.
Connection methods
All Kaleidescape players can be controlled via a TCP/IP connection over Ethernet —
some can also be controlled via an RS-232 connection. Alto, Cinema One (2
nd
generation), and Kaleidescape Mini Players such as the KPLAYER-300 and
KPLAYER-M300 do not have an RS-232 port and must be controlled via IR or TCP/IP
connection. In a Crestron control system, the Kaleidescape modules do not
distinguish between these two connection methods; the protocol is identical.
Kaleidescape recommends using TCP/IP over Ethernet for control connection in
most cases. TCP/IP over Ethernet offers several advantages over RS-232:
Very high bandwidth compared to RS-232
Error detection and correction
Standard Cat5/5e/6 cable and pinout (simple standard termination) usage
Longer cable runs possible
Only a single network port required
No extra COM port cards needed
Bandwidth can be a key issue, especially in multi-zone systems. Text-based
feedback from several zones can cause noticeable response latency over an RS-232
connection. This is especially critical when using command routing to control
multiple Kaleidescape components through a single RS-232 port.
There are some installations that require RS-232. If controlling the power state of
an older Movie Player is an issue, RS-232 might be the only option. M-Class
players, the 1080p Player, 1080p Mini Player, Movie Player 2, Music Player, Cinema
One, and Alto can be powered on from TCP/IP over Ethernet commands. For more
information on controlling power states, see Power control on page 38.
RS-232 control can be used if the Crestron processor does not have an Ethernet
port or the optional Ethernet card.