Dual RS232 Control

Dual RS232 Control

Dual RS232 Control for WolfPack Modular Matrix Systems with 2-RS232 Ports

For an up-to-date listing of all the methods to control our WolfPack Matrix Switchers go to Ways to Control Our WolfPack Family Of Modular Matrix Systems. On this page HDTV Supply shows its RS232 serial communications for connecting a computer or control system to allow serial data exchange between it & our Modular Matrix Systems. It is used in serial communication up to 50 feet with the rate of 1.492kbps. RS232 is often used to control displays & projectors, automated screens, lighting & heating controls, & various sensors and other devices. For that reason RS232 functionality is an important feature as well as with many control products such as our Modular Matrix Systems. A video can be seen at RS232 Video that shows you all the features of using our Dual-RS232 control interface. It shows that our matrix switchers are more than a matrix switcher but you also can send the HEX codes to control the surrounding equipment via an RS232 cable such as control the switching for another matrix, turning a projector ON/OFF & more.

Our Modular WolfPack Modular Matrix Systems have dual RS232 ports on the back of the chassis that can be used (1) as a back-up control if one malfunctions and (2) you can use the 2nd-RS232 port to control the Matrix Switcher at the same time as the first. Also, we have created a simple & very easy to use RS232 code to write your own drivers that can be seen in the RS232 User Manual if you want to write your own drivers. See the setup pictures below using Hercules to help you compose your interface.

The RS232 pinout is:  2-T, 3-R & 5-G.

EXAMPLE: If you want to switch input 8 to output 1, 8, 16, the RS232 command would be 8x1&8&16. and notice the command has a period (.) at the end of the string. The matrix replies "OK" when the right command is received & shows "ERR" when receiving a wrong command. Once you have written the drivers you now have access to over 2,000 Different WolfPack™ Modular HDMI Matrix Switchers to choose from supporting 12-chassis sizes:

  • 4x4
  • 8x8
  • 9x9
  • 16x16
  • 18x18
  • 36x36
  • 48x48
  • 56x56
  • 64x64
  • 72x72
  • 80x80
  • 160x160

Experienced AV hardware and software professionals can now write their own drivers for 3rd party control systems from:

  • AMX™
  • Creston™
  • Media Switcher™
  • OnControls™
  • Savant™
  • SimpleControl™
  • SwitchItUp™
  • SAVI Control™
  • URC Control™

How to use the info:

END USER: If you are an end user and want to have a whole-house control system from any of the above 3rd party control houses but your budget can't support the price you were quoted, do the following:

  1. Call us for a quote
  2. Once you get our quote call a 3rd party control reseller or installer in your area and tell them "Here is the hardware I want to use, please give me a quote on writing the software and installing all of the hardware at my location." You usually can save $1,000s on larger systems.

CAVEAT: We are not certified by any of the above 3rd party control systems companies nor have the necessary hardware to verify, troubleshoot and support the 3rd party writing of the code. We do warranty, though, that the RS232 script in the above RS232 User's Manual has and will work to control the matrix directly.

Why not buy an WolfPack Modular Matrix System with RS232 today?

When one is designing an HDMI Matrix Switch the most important initial specification is the number of inputs and outputs you will need in your facility. The next, and often forgotten, is how the user wants to control those inputs and outputs. HDTV Supply has your back when you're buying one of our WolfPack Family of Modular Matrix Switchers. We have them all shown at Ways to Control Our WolfPack Modular Matrix Systems and here is a summary:

Here Are Numerous Ways To Control Our WolfPack Family Of Modular Matrix Systems:

  • iPad App (iOS)
  • iPhone App (iOS)
  • Android Tablet
  • Android Phone
  • Samsung Galaxy Tablet
  • Samsung Galaxy Phone
  • Web GUI from any browser
  • Dual RS232 ports
  • Dual LAN (TCPIP) ports
  • Front panel push-buttons
  • Color Touchscreens
  • Our DTV Sports Bar Control System
  • One-Way Control4 Drivers
  • 2-Way Control4 Drivers
  • Elan Drivers
  • RTI Drivers
  • ...and more coming
Got questions?
CALL: 833-WOLFPACK (833-965-3722)
TEXT: 805-409-0208
EMAIL: customerservice@hdtvsupply.com
United States Governments SEWP program


This product may be eligible to be purchased through the United States Governments SEWP program, similar to their GSA program.

The NASA SEWP (Solutions for Enterprise-Wide Procurement) provides the latest in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Audio-Visual (AV) products and services for all Federal Agencies and their approved contractors.

If you are a government agency and want to see whether HDTV Supply has this product in the SEWP database go to our our SEWP Contract Holder RedHawk IT Solutions, LLC to allow you to maybe order this product from the United States Governments SEWP program. It is very easy to place your order, go to the link above and enter HDTV Supply and there you will see a list of part numbers of what we currently have. If you do not see it than give us a call at 833-WOLFPACK (833-965-3722) and we may be able to enter it.

RedHawk IT Solutions


Our SEWP Contract Holder RedHawk IT Solutions partner has the following credentials:
  • DUNS: 801957023
  • TIN: 260452583
  • CAGE: 4TBM6
Their SEWP Federal Contracts are:
  • SEWP Contract Number: NNG15SD38B
  • Group: Group B_SDVOSB
  • NAICS: 541519
and
  • SEWP Contract Number: NNG15SD88B
  • Group: Group C
  • NAICS: 541519

The SEWP Program Office manages a suite of government-wide IT products and services contracts that enable NASA and all Federal Agencies to achieve their missions and strategic initiatives by providing streamlined access to critical technologies and solutions. The Program provides best value for the Federal Government and American taxpayer through innovative procurement processes, premier customer service and outreach, acquisition insight, and partnership with Government entities and Industry.

For a complete listing of HDTV Supply products from us, or our other vendors, call 833-WOLFPACK (833-965-3722).

 

Compare Selected

What Is a WolfPack Fixed HDMI Matrix Switcher?

A WolfPack Fixed HDMI Matrix Switcher is a single-chassis device that routes any HDMI source — such as a cable box, satellite receiver, streaming player, or computer — to any TV or display in a building, simultaneously and independently. Unlike an HDMI splitter (which sends one source to many screens) or a simple HDMI switch (which selects one source for one screen), a matrix switcher lets you show a different channel on every TV at the same time. HDTV Supply has sold WolfPack fixed matrix switchers to sports bars, restaurants, hotels, churches, schools, and commercial AV integrators since 2000.

Fixed vs. Modular: Which Do You Need?

WolfPack comes in two families: Fixed and Modular. Fixed matrix switchers have a set number of inputs and outputs built into one box — for example, 4 inputs × 4 outputs (4×4) or 8 inputs × 8 outputs (8×8). They are plug-and-play, rack-mountable, and the right choice when your input/output count won't change. Modular matrix switchers use a chassis with swappable I/O cards, scaling from a few ports up to 80×80 or beyond. If you know exactly how many sources and screens you need today, a fixed unit is typically lower cost and simpler to deploy.

Available Fixed WolfPack Configurations

HDTV Supply offers WolfPack Fixed HDMI Matrix Switchers in the following sizes:

  • 4×2 — 4 sources to 2 displays
  • 4×4 — 4 sources to 4 displays
  • 8×8 — 8 sources to 8 displays
  • 8×9 — 8 sources to 9 displays
  • 16×16 — 16 sources to 16 displays
  • 16×32 via CAT6 — extends signal up to 450 feet over CAT6 cable

Select models include built-in video wall processing, multiview, and picture-in-picture (PIP) — allowing two or more sources to display on a single screen simultaneously.

Control Options for Fixed Matrix Switchers

Every WolfPack Fixed HDMI Matrix Switcher supports multiple control methods so you can integrate it into any environment:

  • Front-panel buttons — manual source switching directly on the unit
  • IR remote control — included with most models
  • RS-232 serial control — for integration with Crestron, Control4, AMX, and similar systems
  • TCP/IP (LAN) control — send hex commands over your network from any device
  • Web GUI — browser-based interface for switching without additional software
  • Free iOS and Android apps — available for select WolfPack models

For RS-232 hex command strings and TCP/IP control protocols, see our WolfPack HEX Code Reference and TCP/IP Control Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a fixed HDMI matrix switcher and a modular HDMI matrix switcher?

A fixed HDMI matrix switcher has a set number of HDMI inputs and outputs built into a single unit — for example, 8 inputs and 8 outputs. A modular matrix switcher uses a chassis with interchangeable I/O cards, so you can configure it for many different port counts and expand it later. Fixed units are simpler and more affordable; modular units offer flexibility for larger or changing installations.

Can a WolfPack fixed matrix switcher show different channels on different TVs at the same time?

Yes. A matrix switcher routes any input to any output independently. In an 8×8 configuration, all 8 displays can show 8 completely different sources simultaneously, or multiple displays can share the same source — in any combination you choose.

Can I control a WolfPack fixed matrix switcher from a Crestron or Control4 system?

Yes. WolfPack Fixed HDMI Matrix Switchers support RS-232 and TCP/IP control, which are standard integration protocols supported by Crestron, Control4, AMX, and other third-party control systems. HDTV Supply provides hex command strings and driver documentation to support custom integrations.

What resolution do WolfPack Fixed HDMI Matrix Switchers support?

Resolution support varies by model. WolfPack fixed matrix switchers are available in 1080p (Full HD) and 4K 30Hz configurations. Select 4K models also support HDR and HDCP 2.2. Always check the individual product specification sheet for confirmed resolution, color depth, and HDCP version.

How far can I run HDMI from a WolfPack fixed matrix switcher?

Standard HDMI outputs on fixed matrix switchers support runs up to approximately 25–50 feet depending on cable quality and resolution. The WolfPack 16×32 model transmits over CAT6 cabling for distances up to 450 feet per run. For longer distances with other fixed models, HDMI extenders can be added at each display.

What is the best HDMI matrix switcher for a sports bar?

For sports bars with up to 16 TVs, a WolfPack Fixed 16×16 HDMI Matrix Switcher is a popular choice — it handles 16 independent sources (cable boxes, satellite receivers, streaming devices) and routes any of them to any TV. For larger venues with 20–80+ TVs, HDTV Supply's WolfPack Modular Matrix Switchers or AV Over IP systems are typically the better fit. Call 833-WOLFPACK (833-965-3722) for a free consultation.

Need Help Choosing?

HDTV Supply has been helping AV integrators, sports bars, hotels, and homeowners select the right matrix switching system for 25 years. Call us at 833-WOLFPACK (833-965-3722) or email kent@hdtvsupply.com and we'll recommend the right unit for your source count, display count, resolution requirements, and control system.