Specifications

Composer Pro Getting Started

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Getting Started

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6. Designing the Control4 System

Become familiar with the Control4

Composer design options before you start to build your first project

and project tree. The project tree represents the hierarchy of locations (sites, buildings, floors, and

rooms) AND devices in each room. You will add all types of controllable devices to the Control4

system, including audio/video, multi-room audio, lighting, motorization, sensors, relays, and other

devices.

Here are some sections that might interest you as you prepare to design a system:

“Introduction to Designing a Control4 System”

“Ways to Create a Project in Composer”

“Purpose of Device Drivers”

“Adding Items to the Project Tree”

“Using the Interviewer Wizard to Build a Project”

“Using Composer Views to Build a Project”

6.1 Prerequisites

In most cases, it’s good to make a list of the actual devices to be used in the project, the manufacturer

and the model number. You will need this information as you build the project. Also, before you start,

create a plan for your project.

Tip: It might be worth your while to check out some cool project management programs called "Smart

Office" and "Control Integration" by Simply Reliable. These products help you manage your projects

from creating home automation proposals to integration of devices into a Composer project.

6.2 Introduction to Designing a Control4 System

Designing a Control4

system in Composer is similar to designing a house. You start with the plan;

then you build the foundation; you build the framework; and then you add the electrical, plumbing,

walls, carpets, paint, etc. to finish the home.

To give you a 'bird's eye view' about how to design and implement a Control4 system, you

x Create a plan. This includes the devices to be used, where they will reside in the home, and

how the network will be set up.

x Install and connect the Control4 and third-party devices that need to communicate to the

network. Note: Many Control4 or third-party devices may be installed already.

x Connect these devices to each other and to the Controller(s) so they all communicate with

the Controller and the home network.

x Build the framework called a project tree using the System Design view in Composer. This

includes adding objects to the project tree that represent the physical buildings, rooms, and

devices. Note: You can connect a physical device, and then add it to Composer one at a time

if you prefer.

x Identify and virtually connect all of the devices in Composer. In addition to the hardware

connections, you have to connect your devices the same way in the Composer software also.