1. Introduction
The Kramer SL-280 is a master space controller, also known as a Kramer Control brain. It is designed to operate over an Ethernet network and provides comprehensive control capabilities for various devices within a room or space.
This controller is suitable for managing small to large environments in commercial, educational, and governmental sectors, enabling centralized control of audio-visual equipment, environmental systems, and other connected devices.
2. Key Features
- Ethernet Control: Operates and communicates over standard Ethernet networks.
- Extensive Control Interfaces: Includes eight bidirectional RS-232 ports, eight IR (infrared) ports, eight GPI/O (General Purpose Input/Output) ports, and eight relay ports.
- Device Compatibility: Capable of controlling a wide range of devices such as scalers, video displays, audio amplifiers, Blu-ray players, sensors, screens, shades, door locks, and lighting systems.
- Expandability: Supports the addition of multiple Kramer Ethernet control gateways to expand remote I/O port capabilities.
- Versatile Application: Ideal for diverse environments including commercial offices, educational institutions, and government facilities.
3. Physical Description
Figure 1: Kramer SL-280 Front and Rear Panels
The image displays the Kramer SL-280 32-Port Master Room Controller. The top view shows the front panel with indicators for power, network, and various control ports including RS-232, IR, GPI/O, and relays. The bottom view shows the rear panel with power input, Ethernet port, USB ports, and green terminal blocks for connecting control interfaces.
3.1 Front Panel
- Power Indicator: Illuminates when the unit is powered on.
- Network Indicator: Shows network connectivity status.
- RS-232 Ports (8x): Bidirectional serial communication ports for controlling devices.
- IR Ports (8x): Infrared output ports for controlling IR-enabled devices.
- GPI/O Ports (8x): General Purpose Input/Output ports for sensing and triggering events.
- Relay Ports (8x): Dry contact relays for controlling devices like screens, shades, or door locks.
3.2 Rear Panel
- Power Input: Standard AC power connector with an on/off switch.
- LAN Port: RJ-45 Ethernet port for network connection and control.
- USB Ports: For firmware updates and other service functions.
- Terminal Blocks: Green screw-terminal connectors for RS-232, IR, GPI/O, and relay connections.
4. Setup and Installation
- Mounting: Securely mount the SL-280 in a rack or on a flat surface using appropriate mounting hardware (not included). Ensure adequate ventilation.
- Power Connection: Connect the supplied power cord to the AC power input on the rear panel and then to a suitable power outlet. Do not power on the unit yet.
- Network Connection: Connect an Ethernet cable from your network switch or router to the LAN port on the rear panel.
- Control Device Connections:
- RS-232: Connect your RS-232 controlled devices (e.g., projectors, displays) to the RS-232 terminal blocks. Refer to the device's manual for pinout details.
- IR: Connect IR emitters to the IR terminal blocks and position them correctly on the IR receivers of your devices.
- GPI/O: Connect sensors or trigger devices to the GPI/O terminal blocks.
- Relays: Connect devices requiring dry contact closure (e.g., motorized screens, lights) to the relay terminal blocks.
- Power On: Once all connections are made, switch on the power using the rear panel switch. The power indicator on the front panel should illuminate.
- Configuration: Access the SL-280's web interface or use Kramer Control software for initial network configuration, device pairing, and control programming. Refer to the Kramer Control documentation for detailed software setup.
5. Operating Instructions
The Kramer SL-280 functions as the central processing unit for your Kramer Control system. Once configured, it executes control commands and automation sequences as programmed through the Kramer Control platform.
- Automated Control: The SL-280 will automatically execute programmed scenarios, such as powering on devices, switching inputs, or adjusting environmental settings based on schedules or triggers.
- User Interface Control: Users can interact with the system via Kramer Control touch panels, mobile applications, or other configured user interfaces. The SL-280 processes these commands and sends them to the connected devices.
- Status Monitoring: The front panel indicators provide basic status information regarding power and network connectivity. Detailed status and diagnostics are available through the Kramer Control software.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings are not blocked to prevent overheating.
- Firmware Updates: Check the Kramer website regularly for firmware updates. Follow the instructions provided by Kramer for safe and proper firmware installation.
- Cable Management: Ensure all cables are securely connected and properly routed to prevent accidental disconnections or damage.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power to the unit. | Power cord disconnected; power switch off; power outlet faulty. | Check power cord connection; ensure power switch is on; test power outlet with another device. |
| No network connectivity. | Ethernet cable disconnected; network configuration error; network switch/router issue. | Verify Ethernet cable connection; check network settings in Kramer Control; restart network equipment. |
| Connected device not responding. | Incorrect wiring; incorrect control protocol/commands; device powered off or faulty. | Check wiring for RS-232, IR, GPI/O, or relay; verify control program in Kramer Control; ensure device is powered on and functional. |
| Kramer Control software cannot detect SL-280. | Network issue; IP address conflict; firewall blocking communication. | Ensure SL-280 and control PC are on the same network; check IP address settings; temporarily disable firewall for testing. |
8. Specifications
| Model Number | SL-280 |
| Manufacturer | Kramer |
| Control Interfaces | 8x Bidirectional RS-232, 8x IR, 8x GPI/O, 8x Relays |
| Connectivity | Ethernet (LAN), USB |
| Item Weight | 7.17 pounds (approximately 3.25 kg) |
| ASIN | B07BKQD1RT |
| Date First Available | March 19, 2018 |
9. Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, please refer to the official Kramer website or the warranty card included with your product. Kramer provides technical support for its products.
If you encounter issues that cannot be resolved using the troubleshooting guide, please contact Kramer technical support through their official website or your local distributor for assistance.
Kramer Website: www.kramerav.com
