Extron electronic 6400 Series, 3200 Series How to Save and Restore the Matrix 3200/6400 Settings

Chapter 3 • Tutorial - Using the Matrix 3200/6400 System Virtualization/Control Software

How to SAVE and RESTORE the Matrix 3200/6400 Settings

The FILE menu provides the following functions:

•Save MATRIX settings as... (uploads *.MTX file from system)

• Restore MATRIX settings from...		(downloads *.MTX file to system)
•	Save This Session’s settings	(uploads MTRX6400.INI file from unit)
•	Restore Last Session’s settings	(downloads MTRX6400.INI file to unit)

In normal operation (non-emulation mode), the Virtualization/Control Program reads the MTRX6400.INI file at start-up to display Icons since these items do not cause any changes in the Matrix System’s configuration (programming) and provide convenience to the user. The file actually contains all the information needed to fully Restore (program) the Matrix 3200/6400 System’s settings. Both of the Restore functions in the menu cause a FULL Restore of the attached Matrix System, providing an easy method to switch between (reprogram) configurations.

Both of the Save functions in the menu create a complete .INI type file for future restoration to an attached Matrix. By default, the SAVE AS choice uses file extension .MTX, but any name and extension can be used when saving or restoring a file. The SAVE THIS function is not usually needed since the program prompts you to create one upon exiting if any edits were performed. The RESTORE LAST function allows you to set your Matrix configuration back to its settings when you first started the Virtualization/Control Program (effectively cancelling any edits and changes without leaving the program).

How to Create PROGRAM BYTE STRINGS for the Matrix 3200/6400 System

The Matrix 3200/6400 System can be controlled and programmed through the RS-232 port via third party control systems. These systems need to be “told” what bytes to send to the Matrix to perform this control. The Matrix 3200/6400 User’s Manual provides details of how to build these byte strings (using paper and pencil), but the Matrix Virtualization/Control Program can make this job much easier by building the strings for you. To generate the strings:

•Create all the Matrix System settings (program) from either Emulate mode or being connected to a Matrix System. The Program Strings that can be viewed produce the Current-Ties, Presets, Audio-Config, and RGB Delay settings.

•To see the strings, click on the TOOLSSHOW RS-232-STRINGSmenu to show the Program Strings screen (Figure 3-10.A).

FIGURE 3-10.A

Extron • Matrix 3200/6400 Series • User’s Manual 3-10