Operations Guide: MC3

48 Pages·2013·1.16 MB·English

by  Crestron Electronics, Inc.

Crestron MC3
®
3-Series Control System
Operations Guide
Important Safety Instructions

• Read these instructions.
WARNING:
• Keep these instructions.
• Heed all warnings. TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPARATUS TO RAIN OR
• Follow all instructions.
MOISTURE. THE APPARATUS SHALL NOT BE EXPOSED
• Do not use this apparatus near water. TO DRIPPING OR SPLASHING. OBJECTS FILLED WITH
• Clean only with dry cloth. LIQUIDS, SUCH AS VASES, SHOULD NOT BE PLACED

ON THE APPARATUS.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance

with the manufacturer's instructions.
WARNING:
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat
registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE

that produce heat. COVER. THERE ARE NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or INSIDE. ONLY QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL
SHOULD PERFORM SERVICE.
grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with

one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two
blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the
third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug

does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for

replacement of the obsolete outlet.

• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
where they exit from the apparatus. presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the
product's enclosure t hat may be of sufficient magnitude
• Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
manufacturer.

• Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket or The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
table specified by the manufacturer or sold with
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in
the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution
the literature accompanying the appliance.
when moving the cart/apparatus combination to
avoid injury from tip-over. WARNING:
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
THIS IS AN APPARATUS WITH CLASS I
unused for long periods of time.
CONSTRUCTION. IT SHALL BE CONNECTED TO AN

• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing ELECTRICAL OUTLET WITH AN EARTHING GROUND
is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any TERMINAL.
way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid
has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the IMPORTANT:
apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not
operate normally, or has been dropped. This device can be used with Class 2 output wiring.
• Disconnect power prior to connecting or disconnecting
equipment.

• Do not install in direct sunlight.

• The apparatus must be installed in a way that the power cord

can be removed either from the wall outlet or from the
device itself in order to disconnect the mains power.
• Prevent foreign objects from entering the device.
Regulatory Compliance
As of the date of manufacture, the MC3 has been tested and found to comply with specifications for CE
marking and standards per EMC and Radiocommunications Compliance Labelling.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Statement
CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help

(Continued on following page)
Industry Canada (IC) Compliance Statement
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference and (2) this device must accept any
interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and
maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio
interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically
radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.
Industrie Canada (IC) Déclaration de conformité
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de
licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de
brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le
brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner avec une
antenne d'un type et d'un gain maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pour l'émetteur par Industrie Canada. Dans le
but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique à l'intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisir le
type d'antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.) ne dépasse pas
l'intensité nécessaire à l'établissement d'une communication satisfaisante.
Le présent émetteur radio , IC: 5683C-CWD6660, a été approuvé par Industrie Canada pour fonctionner avec
les types d'antenne énumérés ci-dessous et ayant un gain admissible maximal et l'impédance requise pour
chaque type d'antenne. Les types d'antenne non inclus dans cette liste, ou dont le gain est supérieur au gain
maximal indiqué, sont strictement interdits pour l'exploitation de l'émetteur.
Type d'antenne: Dipole, Gain admissible maximal: 2.5 dBi, Impédance: 50 Ohms
To satisfy RF exposure requirements, this device and its antenna must operate with a separation distance of
at least 20 centimeters from all persons and must not be colocated or operating in conjunction with any other
antenna or transmitter.

A portion of the code in this product is covered by the Microsoft® Public License (Ms-PL), which can be found at
www.microsoft.com/opensource/licenses.mspx.

The specific patents that cover Crestron products are listed at patents.crestron.com.

Crestron, the Crestron logo, 3-Series, 3-Series Control System, ADMS, Cameo, Core 3, Core 3 OS, Core 3 UI, Cresnet, Crestron Mobile, Crestron
Mobile Pro, Crestron Studio, Crestron Toolbox, e-Control, Fusion RoomView, Fusion RV, infiNET EX, and Isys are either trademarks or registered
trademarks of Crestron Electronics, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. BACnet and the BACnet logo are either trademarks or registered
trademarks of American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Apple,
iPad, iPhone, iPod, and Mac are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Apple, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. EMerge Alliance and the
EMerge Alliance logo are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Emerge Alliance Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Android is either a trademark or a registered trademark of Google, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Internet Explorer, Microsoft and
Windows are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Other trademarks,
registered trademarks and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and names or their products.
Crestron disclaims any proprietary interest in the marks and names of others. Crestron is not responsible for errors in typography or photography.

This document was written by the Technical Publications department at Crestron.
©2013 Crestron Electronics, Inc.
Crestron MC3 3-Series Control System

Contents
3-Series Control System: MC3 1
Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 1
Features and Functions ................................................................................................ 1
Applications................................................................................................................. 5
Specifications .............................................................................................................. 6
Physical Description .................................................................................................... 9
Setup ........................................................................................................................................ 15
Network Wiring ......................................................................................................... 15
CAT5 Wiring ............................................................................................................. 15
Identity Code ............................................................................................................. 15
Installation ................................................................................................................. 16
Hardware Hookup ..................................................................................................... 16
Uploading and Upgrading ........................................................................................................ 18
Establishing Communication ..................................................................................... 18
Programs and Firmware ............................................................................................ 19
Operation ................................................................................................................................. 20
Configuring for Operations ....................................................................................... 20
Acquiring infiNET EX Devices ................................................................................ 32
Problem Solving ...................................................................................................................... 34
Troubleshooting ......................................................................................................... 34
Check Network Wiring .............................................................................................. 35
Reference Documents ................................................................................................ 36
Further Inquiries ........................................................................................................ 36
Future Updates .......................................................................................................... 36
Appendix A: The RF Spectrum ............................................................................................... 37
Appendix B: Optimum RF Reception Guidelines ................................................................... 38
Minimize Interference ............................................................................................... 38
Gateway Placement ................................................................................................... 38
Antenna Orientation .................................................................................................. 38
Return and Warranty Policies .................................................................................................. 40
Merchandise Returns / Repair Service ...................................................................... 40
Crestron Limited Warranty ........................................................................................ 40

Operations Guide – DOC. 7095E Contents • i

Crestron MC3 3-Series Control System

3-Series Control System: MC3
Introduction
The Crestron® MC3 presents a giant leap forward in control system design. Featuring
the all new Core 3® control engine, the MC3 forms the core of the modern
networked home, unleashing more power than ever for integrating home
entertainment, AV distribution, security and environmental systems. With built-in
infiNET EX® wireless technology, on-screen display, native mobile and Web based
control, and onboard media rendering, the MC3 affords vast new, more affordable
ways to control everything in the home through a streamlined hardware approach.
Features and Functions
• Next generation control system for multimedia and whole-house
control
• Core 3 OS™—Substantially faster and more powerful than other
control systems
• Exclusive modular programming architecture
• Vector floating point coprocessor and 128 KB L2 cache
• Onboard 256 MB RAM & 2 GB Flash memory
• Expandable storage up to 1 TB
• Integrated infiNET EX wireless gateway
• Industry-standard Ethernet and Cresnet® wired communications
• Supports Crestron touch screens and other devices
• Available RF and IR control options
• Customizable OSD user interface
• Component and composite video outputs
• Onboard e-Control® Web Server
• Supports Core 3 UI™ XPanel Web based remote control
• Supports Crestron Mobile® control apps for iPhone®, iPad® and
Android™
• Supports Fusion RV® and SNMP remote management
• Simplified Web access via myCrestron Dynamic DNS service
• WAV, MP3, and WMA audio file playback
• Built-in IR, COM, relay, and digital input ports
• High-speed USB 2.0 host ports

(Continued on following page)
Operations Guide – DOC. 7095E 3-Series Control System: MC3 • 1
3-Series Control System Crestron MC3

Features and Functions
(Continued)
• Installer setup via on-screen display, Crestron Toolbox™ or Internet
Explorer®1

• Backwards compatible to run existing SIMPL programs
• Full Unicode (multi-language) support
• Increased network throughput and security
• Secure access through Active Directory integration or standalone
account management
• IIS v.6.0 Web Server
• IPv6 ready
• External power supply included
• Native BACnet®/IP support2
• Emerge Alliance® compatible
Core 3 OS
Today's commercial buildings and custom homes comprise more technology than
ever before, and all these systems need to be networked, managed, and controlled in
fundamentally new ways. The IP based Core 3 platform is engineered from the
ground up to deliver a network-grade server appliance capable of faithfully
managing everything from boardroom AV and custom home theater to total building
management.
More than a mere AV controller, the MC3 embodies a distinctively robust, dynamic,
and secure platform to elevate system designs to higher levels of performance and
reliability. Compared to other control systems, the MC3 provides a pronounced
increase in processing power and speed with more memory, rock solid networking
and IP control, and a unique modular programming architecture.
Modular Programming Architecture
Designed for enhanced scalability, the MC3 affords high-speed, real-time
multi-tasking to seamlessly run multiple programs simultaneously. This exclusive
programming architecture lets programmers independently develop and run device
specific programs for AV, lighting, HVAC, security, etc., allowing for the
optimization of each program, and allowing changes to be made to one program
without affecting the whole. Even as the system grows, processing resources can
easily be shifted from one 3-Series™ processor to another without rewriting any
code. The end benefit is dramatically simplified upgradability with minimal
downtime, whether implementing changes on site or remotely via the network.
Robust Ethernet & IP Control
IP technology is the heart of Core 3, so it should be no surprise that its networking
abilities are second to none. High-speed Ethernet connectivity enables integration
with IP-controllable devices and allows the MC3 to be part of a larger managed
control network. Whether residing on a sensitive corporate LAN, a home network, or

1. Web-based installer setup requires the Microsoft® Internet Explorer Web browser running on a
Windows® PC.
2. License required. The MC3 supports a maximum of 500 BACnet objects when dedicated for BACnet
use only. Actual capabilities are contingent upon the overall program size and complexity.
2 • 3-Series Control System: MC3 Operations Guide – DOC. 7095E
Crestron MC3 3-Series Control System

accessing the Internet through a cable modem, the MC3 provides secure, reliable
interconnectivity with touch screens, computers, mobile devices, media servers,
video displays, security systems, and other equipment—whether on premises or
across the globe.
e-Control Remote Access
Years ago, Crestron pioneered the world’s first IP-based control system unleashing
vast new possibilities for controlling, monitoring, and managing integrated systems
over a LAN, WAN, and the Internet. Today, our many e-Control solutions offer
more ways than ever for our users to control their worlds the way they want.
With e-Control, anything in a home or office can be controlled from anywhere in the
world using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Built-in Core 3 UI XPanel technology
affords virtual touch screen control through any popular Web browser running on a
laptop or desktop computer. Our Crestron Mobile Pro® app delivers the Crestron
touch screen experience to an iPhone, iPad, or Android device, allowing safe
monitoring and control of an entire facility using the one device that goes
everywhere.
Remote access is simplified using the myCrestron Dynamic DNS service to establish
a friendly URL for the home system. If technical support is ever needed, a Crestron
system installer can even perform diagnostics and implement updates to the system
remotely without coming on site.
Fusion RV and SNMP
As part of a complete managed network in a corporate enterprise, college campus,
convention center or any other facility, the MC3 works integrally with Crestron
Fusion RV Remote Asset Management Software to enable remote scheduling,
monitoring, and control of rooms and technology from a central help desk. Built-in
SNMP support enables integration with third-party network management software,
allowing control and monitoring in a format that is familiar to IT personnel.
infiNET EX Wireless Control
Integrated infiNET EX technology provides an extremely easy and cost-effective
way to add control of lighting, temperature, and other functions using Cameo®
Wireless Dimmers and Keypads*, and infiNET EX Thermostats*. Adding an
infiNET EX remote like Isys® MTX-3 Handheld Wireless Touch screen* or MLX-3
LCD Handheld Wireless Remote* enables sophisticated portable control over
everything, whether simply watching TV or adjusting whole-house audio
distribution, lighting, and climate control in every room. Perfect for existing
structures and rentals, infiNET EX affords ultra-reliable 2-way wireless
communications throughout the home without the need for physical control wiring.
Cresnet
Cresnet provides a dependable network wiring solution for Crestron keypads,
lighting controls, thermostats, and other devices that don’t require the higher speed
of Ethernet. The Cresnet bus offers easy wiring and configuration, carrying
bidirectional communication and 24 Vdc power to each device over a simple
4-conductor cable.

* Sold separately.
Operations Guide – DOC. 7095E 3-Series Control System: MC3 • 3
3-Series Control System Crestron MC3

On-Screen Display
The MC3 includes the ability to control the home using just a television screen and a
handheld remote1. Featuring customizable scrolling menus and full-color icons, the
MC3 OSD makes it easy to select any room in the house, pick a music or video
source, choose a radio station, TV channel, or media title, and even access lighting,
climate, and security system controls. The MC3 OSD provides true-feedback so the
status of the item being controlled is always available. Audio adjustments and
lighting levels are clearly indicated using bar graphs. Room temperature and security
system status can be viewed and controlled without leaving a favorite seat. Even
metadata from an iPod®, ADMS®, or Internet radio tuner can be displayed to show
the current playing song, movie, TV program, or radio station.
Audio File Playback
Built-in audio signal rendering allows addition of audio feedback to the OSD, or
generates door chimes, phone ringers, and other signals that can be played through
the home theater or whole-house audio system. Load custom audio files to sound
alarms, provide confirmation when a command is executed, deliver helpful voice
prompts, or just play welcome music as the home theater system turns on.
Onboard Control Ports
In addition to Ethernet, the MC3 includes two bidirectional RS-232 COM ports and
five IR ports to interface directly with all centralized AV sources, video displays, and
other devices. Two programmable relay ports are included for controlling window
shades, a projection screen or lift, or other contact-closure controlled equipment.
Two digital inputs are also provided for use with Crestron occupancy sensors, power
sensors, door switches, or anything that provides a dry contact closure or low-voltage
logic signal.
IR Wireless Option
When equipped with the optional CNXRMIRD IR Receiver1, the MC3 affords a
low-cost IR wireless control solution using any Crestron IR wireless remote or touch
screen, such as the TPS-6X1, or a third-party universal IR remote.
BACnet/IP
Native support for the BACnet/IP communication protocol provides a direct
interface to third-party building management systems over Ethernet, simplifying
integration with HVAC, security, fire and life safety, voice and data, lighting,
shades, and other systems. Using BACnet/IP, each system runs independently with
the ability to communicate together on one platform for a truly smart building.2
EMerge Alliance Registered
The MC3 is EMerge Alliance registered and designed to work within a 24 Vdc
room-level power distribution system. The EMerge Alliance is a non-for-profit open
industry association leading the rapid adoption of safe dc power distribution in
commercial buildings through the development of Emerge Alliance standards3.
Crestron is a proud member and supporter of the Alliance. For more information
about Crestron Solutions for EMerge Alliance Applications visit:
www.crestron.com/emerge.

1. Sold separately.
2. License required. The MC3 supports a maximum of 500 BACnet objects when dedicated for BACnet
use only. Actual capabilities are contingent upon the overall program size and complexity.
3. Information regarding the EMerge Alliance can be found at www.emergealliance.org.
4 • 3-Series Control System: MC3 Operations Guide – DOC. 7095E