JLCooper eBOX User Manual
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eBOX
E t h e r n e t t o S e r i a l & G P I I n t e r f a c e
U s e r M a n u a l
eBOX, eBOX GPI8 and eBOX I/O are trademarks of JLCooper
Electronics. All other brand names are the property of their respective owners. eBOX User’s Manual, Seventh Edition (January 14, 2019)
Part Number 932095
©2019 JLCooper Electronics, 142 Arena Street, El Segundo, CA 90245
USA
( (310) 322-9990
Ê
(310) 335-0110 : www.jlcooper.com
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Table of Contents
Introduction ......................................................................................... 5
Setup .................................................................................................... 6
Unpacking......................................................................................... 6
Connections ..................................................................................... 6
Operating Modes ................................................................................. 7 eBOX Server Mode ....................................................................... 7 eBOX Client Mode ........................................................................ 8
GPI to Serial Conversion ............................................................... 8
GPI to Ethernet Conversion........................................................... 8
Resetting eBOX Settings .................................................................... 9
Initial Hardware Configuration.......................................................... 10 eBOX Configuration Utility ................................................................ 11 eBOX to Configure .......................................................................... 12 eBOX Password Change ................................................................. 12 eBOX Settings ................................................................................ 13 eBOX IP Address ........................................................................ 15
Port .................................................................................................... 16
GPI Functions in GPI Conversion Modes ......................................... 17
GPI Inputs................................................................................... 17
GPI Outputs ................................................................................ 18
GPI Programmer Software ................................................................ 19 eBOX GPI Tester Utility ..................................................................... 22 eBOX Software for MacOS ............................................................... 25
Installation....................................................................................... 25
Operation ........................................................................................ 25
Preferences..................................................................................... 26
Password ........................................................................................ 26
Keysets ........................................................................................... 27
Programming Mode ........................................................................ 28
Action Tabs ..................................................................................... 28
MIDI Tab ......................................................................................... 29
MIDI Machine Control (MMC) ...................................................... 29
3
Custom MIDI Messages .................................................................. 30
Special Tab ..................................................................................... 30
Delay Tab ........................................................................................ 31
Keyboard Triggers........................................................................... 31
GPI Input Pins ................................................................................. 32
GPI Output Pins .............................................................................. 33
GPI Preset Buttons ......................................................................... 34
Serial Port Buttons .......................................................................... 35
Serial Preset Buttons....................................................................... 35
Live Mode ....................................................................................... 36
Using the eBOX With a Router.......................................................... 38
Using with eBOX I/O ......................................................................... 39
Technical Reference ......................................................................... 40
Electrical Connections .................................................................... 40
Ethernet ...................................................................................... 40
Serial .......................................................................................... 41
GPI Port Pinouts ......................................................................... 42
GPI Port Circuitry Details ............................................................ 43
Power ................................................................................................. 45
Troubleshooting ................................................................................ 46
Care and Service ............................................................................... 47
JLCooper Electronics Limited Warranty .......................................... 48
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Introduction
The eBOX is a general purpose interface box that converts 4 serial communication ports and 24 GPI (General Purpose Interface) inputs and outputs to 100/10baseT Ethernet. The serial ports can be configured as
EIA/TIA RS-232E (CCITT V.28) or as EIA/TIA RS-422A ports. This can be performed easily in the field. Additionally, the port direction can be configured as DTE or DCE on each port independently.
The eBOX communicates over standard TCP/IP which allows is be used with any host computer running any operating system that uses TCP/IP protocol. The eBOX can also be connected to other eBOXes to allow longer runs than traditional serial and GPI cables. Since the eBOX uses
TCP/IP, traffic can be routed over internal LANs, wireless LANs, MANs,
WANs and even over the public Internet.
Typically, the eBOX functions as a server, passively waiting for client devices to connect to it. The device can be a computer or another eBOX configured as a client. When the eBOX is configured as a client, it will actively attempt to connect to the server eBOX. Once this is accomplished, the either eBOX will pass data received in the serial or
GPI ports to the remote eBOX. If there is no data received in the eBOX, the eBOX will not send any TCP packets.
In addition, the eBOX can operate as a GPI to Serial Converter or GPI to
Ethernet Converter. In these modes, the eBOX will convert GPI input triggers to deck commands.
5
Setup
Unpacking
The eBOX package will contain the following items:
• eBOX
• Power Supply
• This Users Manual
• Four rubber feet
Connections
The eBOX connections are straightforward:
1.
Plug the power supply into the eBOX.
2.
Plug a network cable into the Ethernet jack.
3.
Connect serial cables into ports 1-4.
4.
Connect GPI cables into GPI ports.
6
Operating Modes
The eBOX has five distinct modes of operation that are set by the rear panel DIP switches. The DIP switches are read only at power on so the eBOX must be power cycled for the changes to take effect.
SW8 SW7 SW5
On X Off Unused
Off Off Off
Off On Off eBOX is server at address specified on next page eBOX is client at address specified on next page
Off
Off
On
Off
X = Don’t Care
On
On eBOX performs GPI to serial conversion eBOX performs GPI to Ethernet conversion
Mode Configuration
eBOX Server Mode
When the eBOX is in the server mode, it waits for a client to connect to it. The client can be another eBOX in client mode or it can be a computer based application. The IP address and TCP port of the eBOX is set by DIP switches 1, 2 and 3.
Note: The eBOX must be power cycled to switch to this mode.
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eBOX Client Mode
When the eBOX is set to client mode, it actively attempts to connect to another eBOX in server mode. The IP address and TCP port of the eBOX is set by DIP switches 1, 2 and 3.
Note: The eBOX must be power cycled to switch to this mode.
GPI to Serial Conversion
When the eBOX is in GPI to Serial Conversion Mode, it converts GPI inputs into serial messages out to the four serial ports. The IP address of the eBOX is set by DIP switches 1, 2 and 3 plus one. The TCP port is fixed at 8000. The GPI Programmer Software allows you to edit and upload the commands that are sent when GPI inputs are triggered.
When the eBOX operates as a GPI to Serial Converter, it will send to the to Serial Port A status requests on a periodic basis. Replies from the deck will be used to establish the state of some of the GPI Output pins, acting as tally lines. Refer to the section regarding GPI Outputs in GPI
Conversion Modes later in this manual.
Note: The eBOX must be power cycled to switch to this mode.
GPI to Ethernet Conversion
When the eBOX is in GPI to Ethernet Conversion Mode, it converts GPI inputs into Ethernet messages specifically for Doremi V1 and MCS video servers. The IP address of the eBOX is set by DIP switches 1, 2 and 3 plus one. The TCP port is fixed at 8000. The eBOX GPI Programmer
Software allows you to edit and upload the commands that are sent when GPI inputs are triggered.
When the eBOX operates as a GPI to Ethernet Converter, it will send to the Doremi server status requests on a periodic basis. Replies from the server will be used to establish the state of some of the GPI Output pins, acting as tally lines. Refer to the section regarding GPI Outputs in GPI
Conversion Modes.
Note: The eBOX must be power cycled to switch to this mode.
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Resetting eBOX Settings
The eBOX settings can be forced to factory defaults by using the reset button. The reset button is located behind the front panel. It can be accessed via the small, unmarked hole to the right of the Port 4 Send
LED. The arrow in the picture below shows the location of the hole for the reset button.
To reset the eBOX to factory defaults, simply press the button with a long, thin object such as a paper clip and turn the power on. The reset button can be released after the 5 Send and 5 Receive LEDs stop flashing.
The eBOX factory defaults are:
IP Address
Subnet Mask
Gateway Address
192.168.254.102
255.255.255.0
192.168.254.198
TCP Port
Destination IP Address
Destination TCP Port
Password
Serial Port Rate
Parity
Serial Port Timeout
Maximum Buffer Size
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192.168.254.103
5000 password
38400 bits/sec
Odd
5 mS
128 bytes eBOX Settings After Reset
After the eBOX settings are reset in this manner, you must power cycle the eBOX to load those settings.
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Initial Hardware Configuration
IP Address
The IP Address of the unit depends on the position of DIP switches 1, 2 and 3. This is detailed in the table below. The address box can accommodate numeric (nnn.nnn.nnn.nnn) or alphanumeric
(domain.name.com) network locations.
SW3 SW2 SW1 SW7 Mode IP Address
Off Off Off Off Server 192.168.254.102
Off Off
Off Off
Off
On
On
Off
Client 192.168.254.103
Server 192.168.254.104
Off Off
Off On
Off On
Off On
Off On
On Off
On Off
On
Off
Off
On
On
Off
Off
On
Off
On
Off
On
Off
On
Client 192.168.254.105
Server 192.168.254.106
Client 192.168.254.107
Server 10.0.0.128
Client 10.0.0.129
Server 10.0.0.130
Client 10.0.0.131
On Off
On Off
On On
On On
On On
On On
On
On
Off
Off
On
On
Off
On
Off
On
Off
On
Server 10.0.0.132
Client 10.0.0.133
Server 172.16.0.128
Client 172.16.0.129
Server Set by user,
Default=192.168.254.102
Client Set by user,
Default=192.168.254.102
IP Address Configuration for eBOX
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eBOX Configuration Utility
Beginning with version 1.09 firmware, a second TCP connection was added. This allows the eBOX to be configured while the eBOX is in use and avoids any compatibility issues with web browsers. This is the recommended way to configure the eBOX.
Note: The eBOX Configuration Utility will not work with firmware earlier than version 1.09.
To allow easy configuration of the eBOX, JLCooper has provided a small Windows utility. The eBOX Configuration Utility is shown below.
To use the utility, simply install and launch it.
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eBOX to Configure
In this section, enter the IP Address, TCP Port and Password of the target eBOX that you wish to configure.
IP Address
This is IP Address of the target eBOX to configure.
TCP Port
This is the TCP Port of the target eBOX to configure. The TCP Port for configuration is fixed at 4141. In most circumstances, you will never have to change this however, if the eBOX is behind a router using port forwarding, you may have to specify a different port.
Password
If DIP switch 6 is set to the down position, the eBOX uses a password to prevent unauthorized access. The default password is ‘ password ’.
Note: If the Password box contains any text, the eBOX
Configuration Utility will pad out the password with spaces and truncate the password to 8 characters. If the Password box is empty, the eBOX Configuration Utility will send no password.
eBOX Password Change
This section allows you to change the password of the eBOX.
Remember, if DIP switch 6 is set to the down position, the eBOX requires the correct password in the ‘ eBOX to Configure ’ section. The default password is ‘ password ’.
New Password
This is the area to enter a new password. The password can be up to 8 characters in length.
Update Password
Clicking on this button sends the new password to the eBOX.
Note: The eBOX Configuration Utility will pad out the password with spaces and truncate the password to 8 characters even if the
Password box is empty.
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eBOX Settings
This section allows you to change the operational settings of the eBOX
Ethernet and serial ports.
Device IP Address
IP address of this eBOX when SW1, SW2 and SW3=On.
Subnet Mask
The mask is a binary pattern that is matched up with the IP address to turn part of the host ID address field into a field for subnets.
Gateway Address
IP address of gateway router that connects to other networks.
Port Number
TCP port of this eBOX when SW1, SW2 and SW3=On.
Destination IP Address
IP address of remote eBOX when SW1, SW2 and SW3=On. This is used when eBOX is configured as a client (SW7=On).
Destination Port Number
TCP port of remote eBOX when SW1, SW2 and SW3=On. This is used when eBOX is configured as a client (SW7=On).
Password
Eight character alphanumeric password that is embedded in the
Ethernet packet that prevents unauthorized eBOXes from passing unintended packets. If the password protection feature is enabled
(SW6=Off) on either eBOX, then both eBOXes must have the same password.
Baud Rate
Sets the port speed of the individual serial ports.
Parity and Parity Type
Enables or disables parity and sets parity type of the serial ports.
Serial Time Out
Sets the time that the eBOX will wait for data from the serial ports.
Max Buff Size
Sets the maximum buffer size of the serial ports.
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eBOX Security
The eBOX contains a basic security mechanism that prevents unintended hosts or eBOXes from passing data through a secured eBOX. An eBOX can be protected with password that is set with the configuration utility. The password is stored in nonvolatile memory and, is read upon power up.
When password protection is enabled, the sending eBOX embeds the password in the transmitted IP packet. At the remote end, the receiving eBOX must have password protection enabled AND have a matching password.
The DIP switches are read only at power on so the eBOX must be power cycled for any changes to take effect.
This security mechanism is only used in eBOX Server and eBOX Client modes. SW6 should be set to the off position when used in the GPI to
Serial and GPI to Ethernet modes.
SW6
On
Off
Disable password protection
Enable password protection
Security Configuration
The effect of SW6 takes place immediately.
Note: If an eBOX has password protection is disabled, it will ignore the password and act on any packets sent to it.
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eBOX IP Address
The IP address of the eBOX can be set by the rear panel DIP switches or by the configuration utility. As above, the DIP switches are read only at power on so the eBOX must be power cycled for the changes to take effect.
Here is a table of how IP address and the TCP port are set with the DIP switches in eBOX Server and eBOX Client modes.
SW3 SW2 SW1 SW7 Mode IP Address Port
Off
Off
Off
Off
Off
Off
Off
Off
Off
On
Off
Off
On
On
Off
Off
On
Off
On
Off
Server 192.168.254.102 23
Client 192.168.254.103 23
Server 192.168.254.104 23
Client 192.168.254.105 23
Server 192.168.254.106 23
Off
Off
Off
On
On
On
On
On
On
On
On
On
On
On
Off
Off
Off
Off
On
On
On
On
Off
On
On
Off
Off
On
On
Off
Off
On
On
On
Off
On
Off
On
Off
On
Off
On
Off
On
Client 192.168.254.107 23
Server 10.0.0.128 23
Client 10.0.0.129
Server 10.0.0.130
Client 10.0.0.131
23
23
23
Server 10.0.0.132
Client 10.0.0.133
Server 172.16.0.128
Client 172.16.0.129
Server Set by user
Client Set by user
23
23
23
23
IP Address Configuration for eBOX Server and eBOX Client modes
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Here is a table of how IP address and the TCP port are set with the DIP switches in eBOX GPI to Serial and GPI to Ethernet conversion modes.
SW3 SW2 SW1 IP Address Port
Off Off Off
Off Off On
Off On Off
Off On On
On Off Off
On Off On
On On Off
On On On
192.168.254.103 8000
192.168.254.105 8000
192.168.254.107 8000
10.0.0.129 8000
10.0.0.131
10.0.0.133
8000
8000
172.16.0.129
Set by user
8000
8000
IP Address Configuration in GPI conversion modes eBOX Message Concatenation Correction
Note: This feature is only availiable in v2.04 or later firmware.
As eBOX messages pass over a network, it is possible that multiple message packets can get combined into a single message packet. This is called concatenation. The eBOX has the ability to gracefully detect this situation and correctly separate and decode the messages.
In certain cases, the mechanism which handles eBOX messages that get concatenated into a single TCP packet could inadvertently decode serial data as an eBOX header. This could prevent the unit from successfully decoding the messages.
To avoid this, this feature can be disabled by setting DIP switch 4 to the
‘up’ position.
SW4
On Disable Concatenation Correction
Off Enable Concatenation Correction
Concatenation Correction Configuration
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GPI Functions in GPI Conversion Modes
GPI Inputs
Here are the default GPI to serial mappings for the eBox GPI Inputs.
1 - Ground
2 - 20 00 20 Stop
3 - 20 01 21 Play
4 - 20 20 40 Rewind
5 - 20 10 30 Fast Forward
6 - 20 02 22 Record
7 - 42 30 40 00 B2 Arm Insert
8 - 42 30 00 00 72 disarm all tracks
9 - 42 30 10 00 82 Video
10 - 42 30 11 00 83 Arm Video, A1
11 - 42 30 13 00 85 Arm Video, A1, A2
12 - 42 30 13 01 86 Arm Video, A1, A2, DA1
13 - 42 30 13 03 88 Arm Video, A1, A2, DA1, DA2
14 - 42 30 13 07 8C Arm Video, A1, A2, DA1, DA2, DA3
15 - 42 30 00 0F 94 Arm Video, A1, A2, DA1, DA2, DA3, DA4
16 - 20 65 85 Edit On
17 - 20 64 84 Edit Off
18 - 20 61 81 Full EE On
19 - 20 60 80 Full EE Off
20 - 20 00 20 Stop
21 - 20 00 20 Stop
22 - Port 1 Disable/Enable
23 - Port 2 Disable/Enable
24 - Port 3 Disable/Enable
25 - Port 4 Disable/Enable
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GPI Outputs
When the eBOX operates as a GPI to Serial or GPI to Ethernet
Converter, it will send to the Doremi server or to Serial Port A status requests on a periodic basis. Replies from the server or deck will be used to establish the state of some of the GPI Output pins, acting as tally lines. The pins are presently defined as:
Pin Tally Function Pin Tally Function
1
2
3
4
5
6
Ground
Play
Record
Fast Forward
Rewind
-
14
15
16
17
18
19
Jog
Shuttle
-
Servo Lock
A1
A2
7
8
Stop
-
9 Standby
10 Cue Up
11 Still
12 Forward Direction
13 Varispeed
20
21
22
23
24
25
TC
-
Video
Assemble
Insert
-
GPI Tally Outputs in GPI Conversion Modes
Note: by default, the GPI Input pins are active low or 0 volts. That is, events are triggered when the GPI Inputs are connected to ground or driven to zero volts. This behavior can be modified with the eBOX GPI Programmer Software.
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GPI Programmer Software
The GPI Programmer Software pictured below allows you to program custom messages and behaviors when the eBOX is in either eBOX GPI to Serial and GPI to Ethernet conversion mode. eBOX IP address
This is the IP address of the eBOX you want to configure. eBOX TCP Port
This is the TCP port of the eBOX you want to configure. The eBOX TCP port in the GPI to Serial and GPI to Ethernet conversion modes is fixed to TCP port 8000.
Connection State
This window shows the status of the connection to the eBOX you want to configure.
Connect / Disconnect
This allows you to establish or break the connection to the eBOX you want to configure.
Status Window
This window shows additional status messages of the connection to the eBOX you want to configure. In addition, you will also see the firmware version of the connected eBOX.
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eBOX Programming
The parameters in this box are settings that will be downloaded into the eBOX. eBOX IP address
This will be the IP address of this eBOX when SW1, SW2 and SW3=On.
Subnet Mask
This will be the subnet mask of the eBOX.
Gateway Address
This will be the IP address of gateway router which connects to other networks.
Port Number
This will be the TCP port of this eBOX when SW1, SW2 and SW3=On.
Destination IP Address
IP address of remote eBOX when SW1, SW2 and SW3=On. This is used when eBOX is configured in the GPI to Ethernet mode or the eBOX is in client mode.
Destination Port Number
TCP port of remote eBOX when SW1, SW2 and SW3=On. This is used when eBOX is configured in the GPI to Ethernet mode or the eBOX is in client mode.
Auto Calculate Checksum
Automatically appends a Sony type checksum to the end of each message.
Suppress Header and Status Request
This disables Doremi message headers and VTR status requests. Doing this allows you to use the eBOX in applications that do not involve a
VTR.
Serial Ports Baud Rate
Sets the port rate of the individual serial ports.
Serial Ports Parity / Type
Enables or disables parity and sets parity type of the individual serial ports.
GPI Pins
These are the pins on the GPI Input connector.
Commands
These are the commands that are sent when the GPI input is triggered.
The command can be triggered on either transition which is set by the
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invert checkbox described below. Each byte must be a two digit hexadecimal number.
Note: In firmware v2.09 and earlier, the command can be up to 30 characters in length. In firmware v2.10 and later, the command can be up to 55 characters in length.
Invert
Normally messages are triggered when a GPI input pin is shorted to ground. Checking this box allows the messages to be triggered when a
GPI input pin is opened or is driven to +5 volts.
Send to Ports
This allows you to specify which serial port(s) the commands are sent.
Send to eBOX
Clicking this button downloads all the parameters to the eBOX. During the download, the eBOX will momentarily stop responding to GPI inputs.
This is normal. The serial messages and serial port routings will be effective immediately. However, changes to the IP settings and serial port settings take effect after a power cycle.
21
eBOX GPI Tester Utility
The GPI Tester Utility pictured below allows you to perform basic tests with your eBOX, eBOX I/O (if equipped) and connected customer equipment. This is intended to be a diagnostic tool to aid you in setting up a server eBOX. The GPI Tester Utility can be used to connect to an eBOX configured for server mode.
The GPI Tester Utility can not connect to an eBOX:
• When configured as a client eBOX,
• When configured as a GPI to Serial converter,
• When configured as a GPI to Ethernet converter or,
• When connected to another eBOX or application.
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eBOX IP address
This is the IP address of the eBOX you want to test. eBOX TCP Port
This is the TCP port of the eBOX you want to test. The eBOX TCP port in the server mode is TCP port 23 by default. This can be configured for any TCP port.
Connection State
This window shows the status of the connection to the eBOX you want to test.
Connect / Disconnect
This allows you to establish or break the connection to the eBOX you want to test.
Status Window
This window shows additional status messages of the connection to the eBOX you want to test. In addition, you will also see the firmware version of the connected eBOX.
GPI Inputs
These checkboxes indicate the state of the input pins on the GPI Input connector. A check mark indicates that the corresponding pin is in the active state (logic low or 0 volts). The absence of a check mark indicates that the corresponding pin is in an inactive state (logic high or
5 volts). Clicking on a checkbox will cause the eBOX GPI Tester Utility to send a GPI Query command to update the state of the checkbox.
GPI Outputs
Sets selected GPI Output to active state (logic low or 0 volts). All other
GPI Outputs are set to inactive state (logic high or 5 volts).
All Off
Sets all GPI Outputs to inactive state (logic high or 5 volts).
Test All
Sets all GPI Outputs to the inactive state (logic high or 5 volts) and sets each GPI Outputs to the active state (logic low or 0 volts) one by one in succession as shown below.
1 → 2 → 3 … 22 → 23 → 24 → 1 → 2 → 3 …
Clicking the button again will stop the sequence.
23
Query GPI
An eBOX sends a GPI Status message in any of the following cases:
• whenever any of its GPI Inputs change states,
• periodically every 5 seconds or,
• when a GPI Query command is received.
Clicking the Query GPI button sends a GPI Query command to the connected eBOX causing the eBOX to immediately return the states of its GPI Inputs. Clicking the Query GPI button is a good way to verify that the eBOX GPI Tester Utility is still connected to the eBOX under test.
Note: The eBOX GPI Utility does not use the Password protection feature of the eBOX so that feature will have to be disabled by setting DIP switch 6 to the ‘ON’ position.
24
eBOX Software for MacOS
Installation
The installer puts the folder eBox in the /Applications folder. This folder contains the eBox Control Center application and the eBox
Uninstaller . The installer also places eBox_StartupItem in
/Library/StartupItems and eBoxMidiDriver in /Library/MIDI Drivers.
To uninstall run the eBox
Uninstaller located in
/Applications/eBox.
Select the items to uninstall, then click on the
Uninstall button.
NOTE: Currently the uninstaller is unable to remove the eBox
Control Center application.
Operation
After restart run eBox Control Center. This application serves as the editing application just like the applications for our control surfaces.
However, it also can be used as a front end for the eBox. You switch between these two modes of operation with the Programming / Live
Mode switch located just above the logo.
25
Preferences
The preferences are where you set the IP Address, port and the optional password.
NOTE: The password feature is not currently implemented.
There are several IP Addresses and Ports built in to the eBox. They are set using the dip switches on the back of the eBox. Refer to the eBox manual for details. You need to set the software to use the same address and port as the hardware. The available ports are listed in the popup menu. With the correct dip switch settings, and by choosing
Custom from the popup, you can define your own IP address and port.
Password
If you check the Use Password checkbox, you can define an eight character password that will be sent as part of every message to and from the eBox. This must match the password set in the eBox hardware.
Refer to the eBox manual for setting up the password.
26
Keysets
This software uses keysets like our control surface software. Different keysets can be set up for different applications, for example, a keyset for Pro Tools and another one for FCP. In Live Mode the eBox, software will automatically use the correct keyset for the front application.
To create a new keyset, go to New Keyset in the
File menu. In the dialog that opens up, navigate to the application that the keyset will be used with, such as Pro Tools, FCP, etc. and click on Open.
Use the Keysets menu to switch between the various keysets that you have created.
When the eBox Control Center is in the background or not running, the eBox driver checks to see what application is in front then uses the keyset created for that application. If an application has no keyset, then the eBox driver uses a permanent keyset named Global . Although the
Global keyset can be programmed just like keysets for specific applications, it is probably best to leave it blank. Otherwise, you might start your tape machines playing while browsing in
Safari.
Keysets, and any changes you make to them, are stored automatically in the eBox's preference file. There is no need to Save or Open on a regular basis. If you want to make a copy of your work for backup or to move to another Mac, use Open
Archive and Save As Archive in the File menu. These commands store and retrieve all of your keysets in a single file.
27
Programming Mode
In programming mode, you click on a button, and its information appears in the Inspector window. Here, you can give the control a name and a set of actions to perform when it is clicked.
You set up an action in one of the tabs (for example, GPI, MIDI, Special,
Delay) then click on Add Action . You can keep adding as many actions as you want. They will be performed in order when the button is pressed in Live Mode .
Action
Tabs
The tabs in the inspector window vary slightly depending on what type of control is selected.
All controls will have the
MIDI, Special and Delay tabs. GPI
Output buttons and
GPI Preset buttons will have a GPI
Tab, and
Serial Port and Serial
28
Preset buttons will have a Serial Tab.
MIDI Tab
The MIDI tab is where you can assign MIDI message to a control. These messages will be received by any running MIDI application that is connected to the eBox Software. The procedure for connecting MIDI applications varies from application to application and will be covered in those applications’ manuals.
MIDI Machine Control
(MMC)
You can assign one of several common MIDI
Machine Control (MMC) messages by clicking on the
MIDI Machine Control radio button and selecting a message from the popup menu.
29
Custom MIDI
Messages
By clicking the Custom radio button, you can define your own MIDI message. The different message types will appear in a popup menu.
Depending on the type of message you choose, other editing controls will appear. If the message type you have chosen has a channel, you can either type a number from 1 -
16 in the Channel field, or use the up and down arrows next to it. If the message also value of 00hex,
In this example, one MMC Command and one Custom MIDI Command have been assigned to a control.
Special Tab
The Special Tab is not currently implemented. includes one or two data bytes, the data byte editors will appear.
You can type a number from 0-127 or use the up and down arrows. If you check Follows
Control , then pressing a button in Live Mode will cause that data byte to have a value of
7Fhex (127 decimal) and releasing the button will give it a
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Delay Tab
You can use the
Delay Tab to set a delay between two actions. Simply move the slider from
0 to 2 seconds then hit the Add/Insert button.
If a GPI Preset button was programmed as in the following example, pressing it in Live mode would close some GPI contacts, wait, send a
Record Strobe to all connected MIDI applications, wait then send another MIDI message.
Keyboard Triggers
For any buttons that trigger an output (actually, all buttons except for the GPI IN buttons), you can also choose a keyboard trigger that will perform the same actions as clicking on the button. The trigger can optionally be passed on to the front application, with or without a delay.
The delay can be from 0 - 1 second. This lets you do things like hit the space bar in Pro Tools to start playback, but have the eBox turn off the studio monitors and wait a half a second before sending the space bar to Pro Tools.
To set a keyboard trigger, click in the field next to Trigger with Keystroke then type the trigger
Character, modifier
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keys and all. At any time, you can change the modifier keys by clicking on the modifier checkboxes.
Because the keyboard triggers are assigned to specific applications, they only operate when those apps are in front. Therefore, they will not interfere with Microsoft Word, or your billing software.
NOTE: Keyboard triggers are disabled in the Global Keyset to prevent unwanted interference with other applications.
All buttons can be either latched or momentary, and you can choose to have them repeat their actions while the button is down.
GPI Input Pins
The top group of buttons each represents Individual GPI pins. There are three rows of input pins and three rows of output pins. For the Input pins, you can program what happens when an individual input pin is changed by some external hardware. Currently the GPI Input pins can generate MIDI Messages and Delays.
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GPI Output Pins
Each GPI
Output pin button can change the state of its pin, without affecting the other pins. In the GPI tab, you can create a GPI action that closes the contact when the button is pressed and opens it when released. If you click on the Invert check box, then it opens the contact on the button press and closes it on release.
Currently the Special Tab is not implemented. But even without it you have the ability to do something like turn on a contact then delay up to 2 seconds then turn it off again, plus send a MIDI message to an application, and this can be triggered by a keystroke that also does something useful in another program, like Pro
Tools. Unlike serial ports, where the input and output signals are carried over the same cable, and are usually going to the same device, GPI inputs and outputs are separate entities. They may or may not be connected to the same device. This is why they can be programmed independently. However, when an input and output pin is connected to the same device and you want them both to perform the same actions, you can program the GPI Output pin first, then click on Apply to GPI In .
This will transfer the output pin’s settings to the corresponding input pin.
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GPI Preset Buttons
The four GPI Preset buttons are similar to the GPI Output buttons, except that they allow you to affect all of the GPI outputs at once. In the
GPI tab you can choose for each Pin, whether to have it follow the button state, invert the button state, toggle with each button press, or do nothing.
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Serial Port Buttons
Each of the four Serial Port buttons lets you send a message to a serial port. It can be a Sony 9-Pin serial command, or any arbitrary string that you can type in.
The serial message can be combined with MIDI and
Delay actions. The Special tab is not currently implemented.
The custom messages can be entered and displayed in either decimal, hex or ASCII notation. The notation style is chosen with the radio buttons at the bottom of the window.
Since the Serial Port buttons only send one command, they are most useful if you have a single command that you send to a port frequently. They are also useful displaying the name of the device the port is connected to.
Serial Preset Buttons
The Serial Preset buttons are more flexible. There are four banks, each bank containing five
F-Keys and five transport buttons. There are four Gang buttons above each bank.
These buttons let you direct the bank’s output to one or more serial ports.
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While more than one of the five F-
Keys can be active at once, the transport buttons act like
“radio” buttons.
That is, only one can be active at once. Sorry, you can’t Record in
Rewind. It’s a feature. If that’s actually a problem, let us know.
Live Mode
In live mode, the
Inspector window is hidden, and the main window’s appearance changes slightly.
The GPI Input Buttons change to indicators to show the state of the
GPI Inputs. They are not clickable since GPI Input actions are only initiated by the external hardware.
In Live Mode , the GPI Output , GPI Preset , Serial Port and Serial
Preset buttons all initiate the actions they were assigned in
Programming mode.
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Activity indicators also appear next to the GPI Output Buttons and the
Serial Port Buttons, since there are times when the state of a GPI pin or serial port might be different from the state of the button.
In Programming mode, only one button (the one being programmed) can be active at once. In Live mode, any button can be active. The exception is the Serial Preset Transport Controls . Within each preset bank, each transport control is mutually exclusive.
When the eBox Control Center is the front application in Live mode, you determine which keyset is active using the Keysets menu. If the eBox
Control Center is in the background, or not running at all, the eBox driver automatically switches keysets based on the front application. If there is no keyset for the frontmost application, then the driver uses the
Global keyset.
When the eBox Control Center is not the front application, you can use the keyboard triggers you defined in Programming Mode to initiate the actions you assigned to the various buttons.
If the eBox Control Center is visible in the background, and in Live
Mode , then its indicators will still display the states of the GPI Input and
Output Pins and the Serial Port Inputs .
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Using the eBOX With a Router
In this section, we will explain how to configure the eBOX to work with a router. In this example, we will show how to configure two eBoxes behind a router. This same information also applies to normal operation of the eBOX with different port numbers.
The TCP Port that the eBOX uses for configuration is fixed at 4141.
However, if the eBOX is behind a router and the router is configured to use Port Forwarding to remap the TCP connection the eBOX, you may have to use a different port. A good example of this is if you have 2 eBOXes at a remote site. In the example below, there are two eBOXes behind a router. The router is configured to pass configuration packets coming to the router at IP Address 12.34.56.78, TCP Port 4141 to the first eBOX at IP Address 192.168.254.102, TCP Port 4141. Additionally, the router is also configured to pass configuration packets coming to the router at IP Address 12.34.56.78, TCP Port 4142 to the second eBOX at IP Address 192.168.254.103, TCP Port 4141.
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Using with eBOX I/O
The eBOX GPI inputs and outputs are CMOS compatible circuits. The
CMOS GPI inputs require that the input signals be 0 to 5 volts and referenced to ground. The CMOS GPI outputs can deliver 0 to 5 volts at up to +/- 6mA and referenced to ground.
In many cases, this will be compatible with your equipment. However, in some cases, there will be the end user equipment may not be compatible with 0 to 5 volt requirements of the eBOX GPI inputs and outputs. In this case, the eBOX I/O must be used. Each eBOX I/O buffers 8 inputs and 8 outputs. The inputs are buffered with an optoisolators while the outputs are buffered with a dry relay contact.
The eBOX I/O comes with a pair of cables that allow you to connect a single eBOX I/O to an eBOX. Up to three eBOX I/Os can be used with an eBOX. To connect two or three eBOX I/Os to a single eBOX, you will need to order the optional eBOX I/O Expansion Cable Kit, JLCooper part number EBOX-I/O-EXPCAB. eBOX I/O
Expansion
Cable Kit
GPI#
1-8
GPI#
9-16
GPI#
17-24
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Technical Reference
Electrical Connections
Ethernet
This eBOX port is just like an Ethernet port on a computer, to connect it to a hub, switch or router, use a straight through cable. To connect it to another eBOX or computer, use a crossover cable.
The eBOX supports IEEE 802.3u clause 28 Auto-Negotiation which automatically senses the Ethernet port speed & duplex operation and chooses the highest performance settings.
In addition, four LEDs on the front panel that indicate various operating conditions of the Ethernet port. These LEDs are:
• Link
• Receive activity
• Transmit activity
• Collision
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Serial
The four serial ports along the top of the rear panel are 9 pin D-Sub connectors which can be configured for RS-232C or RS-422A operation. In RS-422 mode, the eBOX direction can be configured to appear as a Controller or a Device. In RS-232 mode, the eBOX appears as a DCE or DTE.
Mode
Direction
Left SW
Right SW
Pin 1
Pin 2
Pin 3
Pin 4
Pin 5
Pin 6
Pin 7
Pin 8
Pin 9
RS-232C
To Device
Out
In not used
Receive
Transmit not used
Ground not used not used not used not used
RS-232C
To
Computer
In
In not used
Transmit
Receive not used
Ground not used not used not used not used
RS-422A
To Deck
Out
Out not used
Receive A
Transmit B
Ground
Ground
Ground
Receive B
Transmit A not used
RS-422A
To
Controller
In
Out not used
Transmit A
Receive B
Ground
Ground
Ground
Transmit B
Receive A not used
Serial Port Configuration
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GPI Port Pinouts
The GPI ports on the rear of the eBOX are 25 pin D-sub connectors.
The GPI In connector has 24 TTL/CMOS compatible inputs with internal pull-ups to +5 volts. The GPI Out connector has 24 TTL/CMOS compatible outputs. On both connectors, pin 1 is the ground reference and pins 2-25 are the GPI signals.
When eBOXes connected together in a client/server manner establish a connection, both client and server eBOXes
1 Ground will send the state of its GPI In ports to each other so it can be shown on the GPI
Out port on the remote eBOX. After that, changes to a GPI In port will cause an eBOX to send a GPI message to the remote eBOX. Additionally, the eBOXes will send a GPI message every 5 seconds to keep the connection alive and to refresh the state of the GPI outputs.
A packet is sent whenever a change to the
GPI In is sensed. At present, it is sampled about every 20 milliseconds. This can be changed via the configuration utility.
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
GPI 1
GPI 2
GPI 3
GPI 4
GPI 5
GPI 6
GPI 7
GPI 8
GPI 9
GPI 10
GPI 11
GPI 12
GPI 13
GPI 14
16
17
18
GPI 15
GPI 16
GPI 17
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
GPI 18
GPI 19
GPI 20
GPI 21
GPI 22
GPI 23
GPI 24
GPI Input and
Output Pinout
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GPI Port Circuitry Details
The eBOX GPI input and output circuits are detailed in the following section.
The inputs of the eBOX GPI ports are CMOS inputs. The input circuitry has a 4700 ohm pullup resistor to +5 volts as referenced to pin 1 of the
GPI Input Port.
Note: Because the inputs are CMOS, the input voltage MUST be limited to voltage levels between 0 and 5 volts. If this is not possible, consider using the eBOX I/O.
The internal pullup resistor insures that the input pin is set to a known state. The default state of the GPI Inputs is +5 volts or a logic state of
‘1’ in the GPI message bitmap. The internal pullup resistor also allows a simple switch or ‘dry contact’ to be connected between a GPI Input pin and ground as shown in the example below.
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The outputs of the eBOX GPI ports are also CMOS. The output signal is referenced to pin 1 of the GPI Output Port. The GPI Outputs are rated to +/- 6mA. If this is not sufficient for your application, consider using the eBOX I/O.
Note: Because the inputs are CMOS, the output voltage MUST be limited to voltage levels between 0 and 5 volts. This can occur if driving a circuit that is powered by a voltage higher than 5 volts. If this is not possible, consider using the eBOX I/O.
The example circuits below shows a GPI Output driving an LED.
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Power
The eBOX requires a 9 volt DC, center positive power supply capable of delivering at least 500 milliamps. The unit comes with a power supply appropriate for the country in which the unit was sold. If you need a power supply specific to your location, please contact your local distributor or JLCooper Electronics. The part number is 561036.
Warning: Using a power supply other than the units specified in the above table can result in damage to the eBOX and/or other equipment which is not covered by the JLCooper Factory
Warranty.
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Troubleshooting
If for some reason the eBOX does not give you the expected results, take a moment to do some investigating. The most important concept is that you have your eBOX connected properly as outlined in Installation and Use . Take a moment to double check your setup.
• What is the state of the DIP switches?
• Do the 10 red LEDs flash alternately at power up?
• Do the Link and 100 (or 10) LEDs light up?
• In any mode, can you ping it
( ping 192.168.254.102
)?
• If you are using the password protection feature, is it enabled in both eBOXes?
• Can you communicate with the configuration utility?
• In normal client or server mode, can you communicate with it using the eBOX Configuration Utility?
• The ARP Cache in the host application may have the incorrect entry for the eBOX's IP address. Try clearing the ARP cache
( arp -d in Windows).
• In normal server mode, if you telnet to the eBOX, do you see a short packet of unprintable characters every
5 seconds as shown in the screenshot below?
If you are using the eBOX Configuration Utility, be sure to reboot the eBOX for the settings to take effect. A common problem is forgetting to turn the power switch on or turning the unit on after the software application has launched. In addition, the JLCooper website
( www.jlcooper.com
) will contain up to date information on drivers, applications and troubleshooting.
If all else fails, you can contact the JLCooper Service Department at: [email protected]
.
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Care and Service
If properly cared for, your eBOX should provide years of troublefree performance. While the eBOX is built in a rugged metal enclosure, please avoid dropping the eBOX.
Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Do not allow liquids, dust or other foreign matter to get inside the unit.
There are no user-serviceable parts in the eBOX. Please refer to the
JLCooper Electronics Limited Factory Warranty on the last page for detailed warranty and service information.
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JLCooper Electronics Limited Warranty
JLCooper Electronics ("JLCooper") warrants this product to be free of defects in materials or workmanship for a period of 12 months from the date of purchase. This warranty is nontransferable and the benefits apply only to the original owner. Proof of purchase in the form of an itemized sales receipt is required for warranty coverage. To receive service under this warranty, customers in the United States should contact the JLCooper factory at (310) 322-9990 and talk to a service technician. If necessary, a Return Authorization number may be issued. For our customers outside the United States, it is recommended that you first contact your Dealer or
Distributor, since they may offer their own service or support policy. If local support is not obtainable, please send a FAX to JLCooper's Service Department at +1 310 335 0110 with a detailed description of the service required. Upon issuance of return authorization, the product should be packed in the original shipping materials and shipped prepaid and insured to: Service
Department, JLCooper Electronics, 142 Arena Street, El Segundo, CA 90245. Please include the following: copy of the sales receipt, your name and address (no P.O. Boxes, please), a brief description of the problem, and any other related items discussed with the service department and considered necessary to evaluate the product or effect a repair. The return authorization number must be clearly written on the outside of the package. JLCooper will at its option, without charge for parts or labor, either repair or replace the defective part(s) or unit. Carriage, insurance, customs duties, impounds, tariffs, taxes, surchanges, brokerage fees and other shipping costs are not covered by this warranty. JLCooper's normal repair turn around time at the factory is approximately 15 business days from receipt of product to shipping. Your actual turn around time will include return shipping. Actual turn around time will vary depending upon many factors including the repeatability of the customer's reported complaint, the availability of parts required for repair, the availability of related products needed to evaluate the product if necessary. Priority services are available at additional cost. These should be discussed with the service technician at the time the return authorization is issued. This warranty provides only the benefits specified and does not cover defects or repairs needed as result of acts beyond the control of JLCooper including but not limited to: abuse, failure to operate in accordance with the procedures outlined in this owner's manual; nor does it cover damage from accident, negligence, using incorrect power supply, modification, alteration, improper use, unauthorized servicing, tampering, ingress of foreign matter; nor for damage from natural or man-made events such as, but not limited to flooding, lightning, electrostatic discharge, tornadoes, earthquake, fire, civil unrest, war, terrorism, etc.
THE DURATION OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES, WHETHER IMPLIED OR EXPRESS,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY, IS LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THE EXPRESS WARRANTY
HEREIN. JLCOOPER HEREBY EXCLUDES INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: LOSS OF TIME, INCONVENIENCE,
DELAY IN PERFORMANCE OF THIS WARRANTY, THE LOSS OF USE OF THE
PRODUCT OR COMMERCIAL LOSS, AND FOR BREACH OF ANY EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANT-
ABILITY APPLICABLE TO THIS PRODUCT. JLCOOPER SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR
DAMAGES OR LOSS RESULTING FROM THE NEGLIGENT OR INTENTIONAL ACTS
OF THE SHIPPER OR HIS CONTRACT AFFILIATES. THE CUSTOMER SHOULD
CONTACT THE SHIPPER FOR PROPER CLAIMS PROCEDURES IN THE EVENT OF
DAMAGE OR LOSS RESULTING FROM SHIPMENT. THIS WARRANTY SHALL BE
GOVERENED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA.
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