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Universal Remote Control MSC-400 Controller

by September 09, 2006
Filed under: Remotes/Control Systems

Universal Remote Control, Inc. introduced the MSC-400 Master System Controller. The MSC-400 Controller provides unmatched levels of flexibility, automation power, installation speed, and superior programming and diagnostic capabilities - providing installers with options and advantages not otherwise available. For example, using the Controller, installers can:

  • Exploit diverse connection technologies - including Radio Frequency, Infrared, RS232, Relay and USB.
  • Improve the ability of hand-held remotes to command components from multiple manufacturers, while taking full advantage of the MSC-400's vast memory capacity.
  • Completely customize the system for each room or user, and easily update individual automation routines to accommodate system changes.
  • Add additional MSC-400 Controllers and remotes to cover multiple rooms and entertainment systems, even a whole house or estate.

[121_2173] The MSC-400 controller has the brains to handle even the most elaborate systems. It can be expanded to cover multiple rooms and A/V systems, and incorporate several controllers and varying user interfaces - customized as needed for each room, even each user.

The MSC-400 is designed to operate with any of four powerful, compatible URC remotes - new system versions of the MX-3000 and MX-950, and the new MX-900 and TX-1000. The remotes trigger command sequences that are programmed into the MSC-400. Once triggered, the commands execute without interruption or further interaction with the remote. No pointing is necessary.

Today's sophisticated components require system controllers to do more than merely repeat signals. The MSC-400 also tests the status of devices it controls, and issues commands accordingly. The operative word for the MSC-400 is interoperability - the ability to communicate with hardware from multiple vendors. The MSC-400 possesses the ability to control a wide range of disparate devices, including those activated by infrared (IR), RS-232 (serial), Relay (contact/voltage trigger), and USB keyboard commands. This enables the MSC-400 to operate sophisticated home theater equipment, audio components, lighting, Media Center PCs - even motorized screens, drapes and lifts. It also gives owners complete assurance that it can control any components added to their systems in the future - the MSC-400 never becomes obsolete.

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The MSC-400 can control up to 12 components using IR commands, detect the on/off status of six devices, control six devices using the RS-232 ports, operate projection screens, drapes and lifts, and allow a connected remote to serve as a PC keyboard on any WinPC with a USB port. Unique Master/Slave programming options enable installers to combine two MSC-400 Controllers into a single system that can automate up to 22 components.

The MSC-400 comes with an RFX-250 RF Receiver, which allows professional installers to completely conceal all of a system's hardware and still maintain flawless connectivity even at distances approaching 100 feet.

The MSC-400 is optimized for installation in an equipment rack or cabinet. There are no controls for users to set, and no buttons to push. Softly glowing blue and green LEDs on the front panel indicate connections, sensor status and the RF environment, so that a professional installer can diagnose the system at a glance. When programming is required, the installer simply connects a laptop via a USB cable to the front-panel programming port.

The MSC-400 Master System Controller is available now from authorized Universal Remote Control dealers at a suggested price of $799. Individual remotes controls are additional. For additional technical information, please visit www.universalremote.com .

About the author:
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As Associate Editor at Audioholics, Tom promises to the best of his ability to give each review the same amount of attention, consideration, and thoughtfulness as possible and keep his writings free from undue bias and preconceptions. Any indication, either internally or from another, that bias has entered into his review will be immediately investigated. Substantiation of mistakes or bias will be immediately corrected regardless of personal stake, feelings, or ego.

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