User`s guide

MachineControl Guide 6
Ports and MachineControl
Serial port requirements vary depending on
whether or not you are using a USD, a
DigiSerial Port, or other synchronization de-
vices. Before you install MachineControl, you
must determine the ports you will use for your
system’s connections.
9-Pin-to-Serial
MachineControl communication requires a se-
rial connection between your machine (9-pin or
V-LAN) and Pro Tools, or your computer. Serial
port requirements vary depending on your type
of computer and Pro Tools systems. See “Select-
ing a Port” on page 6 for serial port instructions.
This can include either the Remote mode cable,
or the Serial Control cable, or both. Remote
mode and Serial Control mode cannot be used
simultaneously, but with enough available se-
rial ports you can have both options connected
simultaneously. (See “9-pin Cables” on page 5
for more information.)
Synchronization
Synchronization communication requires addi-
tional serial and other connections between de-
vices. See “Sync Connections” on page 8.
Selecting a Port
When to use the DigiSerial Port
Pro Tools MIX Core and d24 cards feature the
DigiSerial Port, a special-purpose serial connec-
tor. Though this port is identical in appearance
to the serial ports on your computer, it is de-
signed to be used according to the following
rules:
When using a USD:
◆
If you are using a USD, the USD should always
be connected to the DigiSerial Port.
Without a USD:
◆
If you are using MachineControl, but not a
USD, then the DigiSerial Port can be used for
MachineControl.
G3 and G4 Computers
Power Macintosh G3 and G4 computers do not
have a conventional serial port, so use of a sup-
ported serial port adaptor is required.
Currently supported devices include:
• Keyspan USA-28X dual-port high-speed USB-
to-Serial adapter
• GeeThree.com Stealth serial port for G4/AGP
• Griffin Technology G4Port serial port for
G4/AGP
Macintosh 9500 and 9600 Computers
Macintosh 9500, 9600, and similar computers
provide serial ports (Macintosh Modem and
Printer ports) that can be used for Machine-
Control. When no USD is present, the DigiSerial
Port can be utilized for MachineControl connec-
tion.
The DigiSerial Port should not be used for
MIDI interfaces or any other serial device.
For an up-to-date list of Digidesign-quali-
fied peripherals, including serial port de-
vices, visit the Digidesign Web site
(www.digidesign.com/compato).