Specifications

Crestron SIMPL Windows Software
Touchpanels
Crestron touchpanels are the most common user interface of any control system.
Touchpanels are available in Cresnet, Ethernet, and wireless versions with either
gray scale or color displays.
Programmers develop touchpanel screen layouts with VisionTools Pro-e software.
Buttons are assigned numbers that link them to the specific operation that it
represents in the SIMPL Windows program. These links are called join numbers
and will be describe in more detail later.
Wired Keypads
Wired keypads have a simple design and operate on the Cresnet network. Their
push-button operation offers classic styling. Many models offer a choice of button
configurations and panel finishes.
Wireless Remotes
Crestron wireless touchpanels and remotes communicate with the control system
using Crestron gateway receivers (e.g. CNRFGWA, CNIRGWA, or CNRFGWX).
The gateway is connected to the control system via Cresnet. Wireless IR/RF
transmitters are one-way devices; they do not receive, but only transmit IR or RF
signals. Likewise, the Crestron CNIRGW is a one-way remote IR receiver and the
CNRFGWA is a one-way remote RF receiver.
User devices
User devices are the audio/visual equipment, such as CD players, TVs, and VCRs
that will be controlled by the Crestron control system. The User Devices folder
contains hundreds of driver files for these devices, organized by manufacturer or
device type.
Control Methods
When working with and programming Crestron control systems, it is important to
have a good understanding of how devices can be controlled. In general, any device
that has an electrical interface of some sort can be controlled by a Crestron control
system. The most common control methods are listed below:
• Relay closures (mechanical or solid-state)
• Serial communications
• Analog voltages
• Custom Crestron interfaces
Relay closures
Many devices employ internal electronics that allow functions to be triggered
through a simple electrical contact. In the world of control systems, this is
accomplished using relays. Devices such as screens and drapes, or third-party
lighting control systems tend to use this type of interface. In addition, some not-
dimmed lighting circuits can be switched on and off using relays. Crestron
manufactures relays of many different flavors: low-power relays for use with devices
that do not draw a lot of current or require high voltages, and high-power relays for
Primer – DOC. 6253 Crestron SIMPL Windows • 7