Control4 CORE-3 Controller Installation Guide

Introduction

Designed for an exceptional family room entertainment experience, the Control4 CORE-3 Controller automates home entertainment gear and serves as an ideal smart home starter system with built-in entertainment capabilities. The CORE-3 offers a beautiful, intuitive, and responsive on-screen user interface, enhancing the entertainment experience for any TV. It can orchestrate various entertainment devices, including Blu-ray players, satellite/cable boxes, game consoles, and TVs, supporting infrared (IR) and serial (RS-232) control. It also features IP control for devices like Apple TV, Roku, and AVRs, plus secure wireless ZigBee control for lights, thermostats, and smart locks. For entertainment, the CORE-3 includes a built-in music server for personal music libraries, streaming services, and AirPlay-enabled devices via Control4 ShairBridge technology.

Box Contents

• CORE-3 controller
• AC power cord
• IR emitters (4)
• External antennas (1)

Accessories Available for Purchase

• CORE-3 Wall-Mount Bracket (C4-CORE3-WM)
• Rack Mount Kit (C4-CORE3-RMK)
• Control4 3-Meter Wireless Antenna Kit (C4-AK-3M)
• Control4 Dual-Band WiFi USB Adapter (C4-USBWIFI or C4-USBWIFI-1)
• Control4 3.5 mm to DB9 Serial Cable (C4-CBL3.5-DB9B)

Requirements and Specifications

Note: Ethernet is recommended over Wi-Fi for optimal network connectivity.

Note: The Ethernet or Wi-Fi network must be installed before starting the CORE-3 controller installation.

Note: The CORE-3 requires OS 3.3 or newer.

Composer Pro software is required for device configuration. Refer to the Composer Pro User Guide (ctrl4.co/cpro-ug) for details.

⚠️ Caution! To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

⚠️ Caution! In an over-current condition on USB, the software disables the output. If the attached USB device does not appear to power on, remove the USB device from the controller.

Specifications

Additional Resources

• Control4 CORE series help and information: ctrl4.co/core
• Snap One Tech Community and Knowledgebase: tech.control4.com
• Control4 Technical Support
• Control4 website: www.control4.com

Front View

Description of front panel components:

• A Activity LED: Shows when the controller is streaming audio.
• B IR Window: Houses the IR blaster and IR receiver for learning IR codes.
• C Caution LED: Shows solid red, then blinks blue during boot. Blinks orange during factory restore.
• D Link LED: Indicates the controller is identified in a Control4 Composer project and communicating with Director.
• E Power LED: A blue LED indicating AC power is present.

Back View

Description of back panel components:

• A Power Port: AC power connector for an IEC 60320-C5 power cord.
• B Contact and Relay: Terminal block for connecting relay devices and contact sensors. Relay connections: COM, NC (normally closed), NO (normally open). Contact sensor connections: +12, SIG (signal), GND (ground).
• C SERIAL and IR OUT: 3.5 mm jacks for up to four IR emitters or a combination of IR emitters and serial devices. Ports 1 and 2 can be configured for serial control or IR.
• D DIGITAL COAX IN: For sharing audio over the local network to other Control4 devices.
• E AUDIO OUT 1/2: Outputs shared audio or digital audio sources.
• F DIGITAL COAX OUT: Outputs shared audio or digital audio sources.
• G USB: One USB 3.0 port for external USB drives.
• H HDMI OUT: HDMI port for displaying navigation menus and audio output.
• I ID Button and RESET: ID button for device identification in Composer Pro; also an LED for factory restore feedback. RESET pinhole for resetting or factory restoring the controller.
• J ZWAVE: Antenna connector for the Z-Wave radio.
• K ENET OUT: RJ-45 jack for Ethernet out, acts as a 2-port network switch.
• L ENET/POE+ IN: RJ-45 jack for Ethernet connection and PoE+ power.
• M ZIGBEE: Antenna connector for the Zigbee radio.

Installation Instructions

1. Ensure the home network is in place before starting system setup. An Ethernet connection is required for initial setup. The controller requires a network connection for all features. After configuration, Ethernet (recommended) or Wi-Fi can be used for web-based media databases, IP device communication, and system updates.
2. Mount the controller near the devices it will control. It can be placed behind a TV, on a wall, in a rack, or on a shelf. The CORE-3 Wall-Mount Bracket (sold separately) aids installation behind a TV or on a wall.
3. Attach antennas to the ZIGBEE and ZWAVE antenna connectors.
4. Connect the controller to the network:
   • Ethernet: Connect the network cable to the controller's RJ-45 port (labeled "Ethernet") and to the network port on the wall or switch.
   • Wi-Fi: Connect via Ethernet first, attach the Wi-Fi adapter to the USB port, then use Composer Pro System Manager to reconfigure for Wi-Fi.
5. Connect system devices as described in "Connecting the IR ports/serial ports" and "Setting up IR emitters."
6. Set up any external storage devices as described in "Setting up external storage devices."
7. If using AC power, connect the power cord to the controller's power port and then to an electrical outlet.

Connecting the IR Ports/Serial Ports (Optional)

The controller offers four IR ports. Ports 1 and 2 can be reconfigured for serial communication or used for IR. Connect serial devices using the Control4 3.5 mm-to-DB9 Serial Cable (C4-CBL3.5-DB9B, sold separately).

• Serial ports support baud rates from 1200 to 115200 for odd/even parity. Hardware flow control is not supported.
• Refer to Knowledgebase article #268 (dealer.control4.com/dealer/knowledgebase/article/268) for pinout diagrams.
• Configure ports for serial or IR in Composer Pro. Serial ports default to straight-through; enable "Null-Modem Serial Port" in Composer to change.

Setting up IR Emitters

For third-party products controlled via IR commands:

1. Connect an included IR emitter to an IR OUT port on the controller.
2. Place the emitter end onto the IR receiver of the target device (e.g., Blu-ray player, TV) to transmit IR signals.

Setting up External Storage Devices (Optional)

Store and access media from external storage devices (e.g., network hard drive, USB memory device) by connecting the USB drive to the USB port and configuring or scanning media in Composer Pro.

Note: Only externally powered USB drives or solid-state USB sticks are supported. Self-powered USB drives are not supported.

Note: When using USB storage devices on a CORE-3 controller, only one partition with a maximum size of 2 TB is supported. This limitation also applies to other controllers.

Composer Pro Driver Information

Use Auto Discovery and SDDP to add the driver to your Composer project. Refer to the Composer Pro User Guide (ctrl4.co/cpro-ug) for details.

OvrC Setup and Configuration

OvrC provides remote device management, real-time notifications, and customer management via computer or mobile device. Setup is plug-and-play, requiring no port forwarding or DDNS address.

To add this device to your OvrC account:

1. Connect the CORE-3 controller to the Internet.
2. Navigate to www.ovrc.com and log in.
3. Add the device using its MAC address and Service Tag numbers for authentication.

Connecting the Contact Port

The CORE-3 features one contact port on a pluggable terminal block (+12, SIG, GRD). Examples for connecting various devices:

Wiring to a Sensor Requiring Power (e.g., Motion Sensor)

Connect the contact port: COM to the sensor's COM terminal, NO to the sensor's signal/trigger input. Connect +12 from the controller to the sensor's power input.

Wiring to a Dry Contact Sensor (e.g., Door Contact Sensor)

Connect the contact port: COM to the sensor's COM terminal, NO to the sensor's signal/trigger input. +12 and GND are not used for the sensor's signal connection.

Wiring to an Externally Powered Sensor (e.g., Driveway Sensor)

Connect the contact port: COM to the sensor's COM terminal, NO to the sensor's signal/trigger input. Connect +12 from the controller to the sensor's +12V power input, and GND from the controller to the sensor's GND input.

Connecting the Relay Port

The CORE-3 provides one relay port on a pluggable terminal block. Examples for connecting various devices:

Wiring to a Single-Relay Device, Normally Open (e.g., Fireplace)

Connect the relay port: COM to the device's control input, NO to the device's control input.

Wiring to a Dual-Relay Device (e.g., Blinds)

For Relay 1: Connect COM to the DOWN control, NO to the DOWN control. For Relay 2: Connect COM to the UP control, NO to the UP control.

Wiring with Power from the Contact, Normally Closed (e.g., Amplifier Trigger)

Connect the relay port: COM to the trigger input. Connect NC to the 12V power source. Connect +12, SIG, GND to the trigger device as required.

Troubleshooting

Reset to Factory Settings

⚠️ Caution! The factory restore process will remove the Composer project.

To restore the controller to factory defaults:

1. Insert one end of a paper clip into the small hole labeled RESET on the back of the controller.
2. Press and hold the RESET button. The controller resets, and the ID button turns solid red.
3. Hold the button until the ID button flashes double orange (approximately 5-7 seconds). The ID button flashes orange during the restore process. Upon completion, the ID button turns off, and the device power cycles.

Note: During reset, the ID button provides feedback similar to the front Caution LED.

Power Cycle the Controller

1. Press and hold the ID button for five seconds. The controller will turn off and then back on.

Reset the Network Settings

To reset controller network settings to default:

1. Disconnect power to the controller.
2. While pressing and holding the ID button on the back, power on the controller.
3. Hold the ID button until it turns solid orange, and the Link and Power LEDs are solid blue, then release immediately.

Note: During reset, the ID button provides feedback similar to the front Caution LED.

LED Status Information

More Help

For the latest version of this document and additional materials, visit:

• Most Recent Version: ctrl4.co/core3-ig
• More Info on CORE Controllers: ctrl4.co/core

Legal, Warranty, and Regulatory/Safety Information

Visit snapone.com/legal for details.

Important Safety Instructions

Read the safety instructions before using this product.

1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
10. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
11. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
12. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
13. This equipment uses AC power which can be subjected to electrical surges, typically lightning transients which are very destructive to customer terminal equipment connected to AC power sources. The warranty for this equipment does not cover damage caused by electrical surge or lightning transients. To reduce the risk of this equipment becoming damaged, consider installing a surge arrestor. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14. To completely disconnect unit power from the AC mains, remove the power cord from the appliance coupler and/or turn off the circuit breaker. To reconnect power, turn on the circuit breaker following all safety instructions and guidelines. The circuit breaker shall remain readily accessible.
15. This product relies on the building's installation for short-circuit (overcurrent) protection. Ensure that the protective device is rated not greater than: 20A.
16. WARNING – Power Sources, Grounding, Polarization

Electrical Safety Advisory

This product requires a properly grounded outlet for safety. This plug is designed to be inserted into a NEMA 5-15 (three-prong grounded) outlet only. Do not force the plug into an outlet that is not designed to accept it. Never dismantle the plug or alter the power cord, and do not attempt to defeat the grounding feature by using a 3-to-2 prong adapter. If you have a question about grounding, consult your local power company or qualified electrician.

If a rooftop device such as a satellite dish connects to the product, ensure that the devices' wires are also properly grounded.

The bonding point can be used to provide a common ground to other equipment. This bonding point can accommodate minimum 12 AWG wire and should be connected using the required hardware specified by the other bonding point. Please use termination for your equipment in accordance with applicable local agency requirements.

Notice – Indoor Use Only

Internal components are not sealed from the environment. The device can only be used in a fixed location such as a telecommunication center or a dedicated computer room. Ensure the protective earthing connection of the socket-outlet is verified by a skilled person. Suitable for installation in information technology rooms in accordance with Article 645 of the National Electrical Code and NFP 75.

This product can interfere with electrical equipment such as tape recorders, TV sets, radios, computers, and microwave ovens if placed in close proximity.

Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in fire or electric shock.

User Serviceability Warning

⚠️ WARNING – No user-serviceable parts inside. If the product is not operating properly, do not remove any part of the unit (cover, etc.) for repair. Unplug the unit and consult the warranty section of the owner's manual.

Battery Caution

⚠️ CAUTION: As with all batteries, there is a risk of explosion or personal injury if the battery is replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of used battery according to the instructions of the battery manufacturer and applicable environmental guidelines. Do not open, puncture or incinerate the battery, or expose it to conducting materials, moisture, liquid, fire or heat above 54° C or 130° F.

PoE Information

PoE is considered a Network Environment 0 per IEC TR62101. Interconnected ITE circuits may be considered ES1. Installation instructions clearly state that the ITE is to be connected only to PoE networks without routing to the outside plant.

Optical Transceiver Caution

⚠️ CAUTION: The Optical Transceiver used with this product should use UL listed, and Rated Laser Class I, 3.3 Vdc.

General Warnings

⚡ The lightning flash and arrow head within the triangle is a warning sign alerting you of dangerous voltage inside the product.

⚠️ Caution: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove cover (or back). No user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.

❗ The exclamation point within the triangle is a warning sign alerting you of important instructions accompanying the product.

See marking on bottom/back of product ?.

⚠️ Warning!: To reduce the risk of electrical shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

USA & Canada Compliance

Compliance confirmed by label: CULUS LISTED ✔️

FCC Part 15, Subpart B & IC Unintentional Emissions Interference Statement

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 when the equipment is operated 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.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

❗ IMPORTANT! Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment.

Innovation Science and Economic Development (ISED) Unintentional Emissions Interference Statement

This device contains licence-exempt transmitter(s)/receiver(s) that comply with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's licence-exempt RSS(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause interference; (2) This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

FCC Part 15, Subpart C / RSS-247 Intentional Emissions Interference Statement

Compliance confirmed by certification numbers: FCC ID: 2AJAC-CORE3, IC: 7848A-CORE3.

This equipment must be installed by qualified professionals or contractors in accordance with FCC Part 15.203 & IC RSS-247, Antenna Requirements. Do not use any antenna other than the one provided with the unit.

Operations in the 5.15-5.25GHz band are restricted to indoor usage only.

Caution:

• (i) The device for operation in the band 5150-5250 MHz is only for indoor use to reduce the potential for harmful interference to co-channel mobile satellite systems.
• (ii) The maximum antenna gain permitted for devices in the band 5725-5850 MHz shall be such that the equipment still complies with the e.i.r.p. limits specified for point-to-point and non-point-to-point operation as appropriate.
• (iii) Users should also be advised that high-power radars are allocated as primary users (i.e., priority users) of the bands 5650-5850 MHz and that these radars could cause interference and/or damage to LE-LAN devices.

RF Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC RF and IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 10 centimeters between the radiator and your body or nearby persons.

Europe Compliance

Compliance confirmed by logo: CE ✔️. Full EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC) available on the regulatory webpage.

This product can be put into service in all EU member states, European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and EU candidate countries without any restriction.

Frequency and maximum transmitted power in EU:

• 2412 - 2472 MHz: ?$ dBm
• 5180 - 5240 MHz: ?$ dBm

WLAN 5GHz: Operations in the 5.15-5.35GHz band are restricted to indoor usage only.

United Kingdom (UK) Compliance

Compliance confirmed by logo: UKCA ✔️. Full UK Declaration of Conformity (DoC) available on the regulatory webpage.

Recycling

Snap One is committed to supporting environmental standards, laws, and directives. This commitment is represented by combining technological innovation with sound environmental business decisions.

WEEE Compliance

Snap One meets all requirements of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) directive (2012/19/EC). Manufacturers must label equipment for recycling and provide disposal/recycling options. For collection or recycling of Snap One products, contact your local Snap One representative or dealer.

Australia & New Zealand Compliance

Compliance confirmed by logo: RCM ✔️.