JL Audio MCS-3800 manual

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99

Go to page of

A good user manual

The rules should oblige the seller to give the purchaser an operating instrucion of JL Audio MCS-3800, along with an item. The lack of an instruction or false information given to customer shall constitute grounds to apply for a complaint because of nonconformity of goods with the contract. In accordance with the law, a customer can receive an instruction in non-paper form; lately graphic and electronic forms of the manuals, as well as instructional videos have been majorly used. A necessary precondition for this is the unmistakable, legible character of an instruction.

What is an instruction?

The term originates from the Latin word „instructio”, which means organizing. Therefore, in an instruction of JL Audio MCS-3800 one could find a process description. An instruction's purpose is to teach, to ease the start-up and an item's use or performance of certain activities. An instruction is a compilation of information about an item/a service, it is a clue.

Unfortunately, only a few customers devote their time to read an instruction of JL Audio MCS-3800. A good user manual introduces us to a number of additional functionalities of the purchased item, and also helps us to avoid the formation of most of the defects.

What should a perfect user manual contain?

First and foremost, an user manual of JL Audio MCS-3800 should contain:
- informations concerning technical data of JL Audio MCS-3800
- name of the manufacturer and a year of construction of the JL Audio MCS-3800 item
- rules of operation, control and maintenance of the JL Audio MCS-3800 item
- safety signs and mark certificates which confirm compatibility with appropriate standards

Why don't we read the manuals?

Usually it results from the lack of time and certainty about functionalities of purchased items. Unfortunately, networking and start-up of JL Audio MCS-3800 alone are not enough. An instruction contains a number of clues concerning respective functionalities, safety rules, maintenance methods (what means should be used), eventual defects of JL Audio MCS-3800, and methods of problem resolution. Eventually, when one still can't find the answer to his problems, he will be directed to the JL Audio service. Lately animated manuals and instructional videos are quite popular among customers. These kinds of user manuals are effective; they assure that a customer will familiarize himself with the whole material, and won't skip complicated, technical information of JL Audio MCS-3800.

Why one should read the manuals?

It is mostly in the manuals where we will find the details concerning construction and possibility of the JL Audio MCS-3800 item, and its use of respective accessory, as well as information concerning all the functions and facilities.

After a successful purchase of an item one should find a moment and get to know with every part of an instruction. Currently the manuals are carefully prearranged and translated, so they could be fully understood by its users. The manuals will serve as an informational aid.

Table of contents for the manual

  • Page 1

    96 Quick Operation Reference Entering and Exiting Utility Mode Enter Utility Mode by pressing Shift and Assign. Utility has three pages, selected with the right-most encoder. Exit Utility Mode by pressing Assign. Protect When On, user cannot enter Assign Mode. Display alerts user memory is protected when attempting to enter Assign Mode. Dump Rotate[...]

  • Page 2

    2 Important: Certain audio and video systems have been engineered to specifically support the MCS-3000 series. The MCS-3000 series was selected by the manufacturers of those systems to be their ideal, de facto control station. Please review the owners manuals and “read me” files that came with your audio or video system for references to the JL[...]

  • Page 3

    3 Introduction The MCS-3000 series of control stations are the most advanced control products ever from JLCooper Electronics. This family of products includes the 8 fader MCS-3800 Controller, the 4 fader MCS-3400 Controller, the MCS-3000X 8 fader Expander, and the Surround Panner Module. MCS-3800 and MCS-3400 Media Command Stations are moving fader[...]

  • Page 4

    4 T able of Contents Introduction ............................................................. 3 Getting Started ......................................................... 7 This chapter discusses the MCS-3000 Series hardware, describing the front and rear panel controls, viewing the front panel in "sections", the displays and connectors,[...]

  • Page 5

    5 The Mixer Section .................................................. 27 This chapter discusses how to assign and use the motorized, touch sensitive faders, their associated channel switches above the faders, select buttons and rotary encoders, Page and Bank buttons. Attributes of the Mixer Section ................................ 27 Basic Bank Sw[...]

  • Page 6

    6 The Function Buttons Section .............................. 65 This chapter discusses how to use the assignable F buttons, W Buttons, the Cursor Buttons and M buttons. Attributes of Function Buttons ................................ 65 Assigning Function Buttons, an Overview ............. 67 To Assign F and M Buttons ..............................[...]

  • Page 7

    7 Getting Started This chapter discusses the MCS-3000 Series hardware, describing the front and rear panel controls, viewing the front panel in "sections", the displays and connectors, and how to interconnect it into your system. Front Panel Displays and Contr ols The illustrations show the MCS-3800, which is operationally the same as the[...]

  • Page 8

    8 The Mixer Section The Mixer Section is comprised of the motorized, touch sensitive faders, the buttons above the faders, the five rotary encoders, and the Page and Bank Switches. The Function Buttons Section This is comprised of the buttons F1 through F8, Shift, W1 through W5, M1 through M5, the Cursor Buttons. 89 W arranty JLCooper Electronics ([...]

  • Page 9

    9 The T ransport Section The Transport Section is comprised primarily of the Transport Controls: Rewind, Fast Forward, Stop, Play and Record, and also the Jog / Shuttle mechanism. Other controls that can be considered part of the Transport Section include the Keypad, since once of its functions is to send Locate commands. The M buttons may be used [...]

  • Page 10

    10 The System Section The System Section is comprised of the Cursor Buttons, the Rotary Encoders, and the Assign Button. The Shift button is included, because Shift Assign puts the unit into Utility mode, and Shift Locate changes the function of the Keypad from Locates to Program Changes. The LCD is used to primarily to display the names of control[...]

  • Page 11

    11 Rear Panel MCS-3800 is shown, the MCS-3400 is similar. From left to right we have: • MIDI In, MIDI Out • LCD Contrast Control • MCS-3000X Expander Connector • Time Code Input The input jack is 1/4”, unbalanced, that is, tip & sleeve. • Card Slot #1 and Card Slot #2 Accepts optional, user installable plug in cards for additional c[...]

  • Page 12

    12 85 Switch MIDI Chan Controller# up 16 30 Shifted up 16 31 down 16 32 Shifted down 16 33 left 16 34 Shifted left 16 35 right 16 36 Shifted right 16 37 Mute Chan 1, Bank 1 15 00, etc. Mute Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 07 Solo Chan 1, Bank 1 “ 08, etc. Solo Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 0F Aux Chan 1, Bank 1 “ 10, etc. Aux Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 17 Sel Chan 1, Bank 1 ?[...]

  • Page 13

    13 Expander Connection The MCS-3000X Expanders may be physically attached to the MCS-3400 or MCS-3800 Controller, forming a continuous control surface. (MCS-3800 shown with 3 MCS-3000X Expanders attached) Alternately, the Expander can stand apart from the MCS Controller. In that case, an optional set of simulated stone end- bells may be purchased t[...]

  • Page 14

    14 Mounting MCS-3000X Expander to Controller Important: Make All Connections with the Power Off. Turn the power off of all MCS-3000 units before proceeding. Plan Work Area You will want to work at a spacious, well lit surface. Spread a cloth on the surface to avoid scratching units. Remove Top of MCS-3400 or MCS-3800 Controller Using the allen key [...]

  • Page 15

    15 3000X Expander Electrical Hookup Important: Make All Connections with the Power Off. Turn the power off of all MCS-3000 units before proceeding. The 3000X (8 moving fader controller) can be used either: (1) Connected to an MCS-3800 (or 3400) or (2) “Stand Alone”, as a self contained control surface. On the rear of the Expander is a small clu[...]

  • Page 16

    16 Set the Expander ID# On the rear of the Expander is a small cluster of four switches, known as DIP switches. When the rear dip switch number 4 is up, that is, off, the 3 remaining switches are used to set the “ID” number of the 3000X Expander. These switches set the ID# of each Expander, so the system knows which Expander represents channels[...]

  • Page 17

    17 (2) To Use 3000X “Stand Alone” without an MCS-3800 Set the rear DIP switch position #4 down (= ON) When the rear dip switch number 4 is down, that is, on, you will use the MCS-3000X’s MIDI input and MIDI output. (The MCS-3000X’s modular “telephone-type” connectors are not used in this modes) When the rear dip switch number 4 is down,[...]

  • Page 18

    18 System Connections Power Make sure the power switch is off before connecting the external power supply. Power should be turned off of every MCS-3000X Expander. There is a strain relief clip on the back of the unit, to prevent accidental unplugging. Pass the small plug end of the power supply through this clip. Loop it around and pass it through [...]

  • Page 19

    19 MIDI In and Out Connect the MIDI Out to the MIDI In of the System you are controlling. Connect the MIDI In to the MIDI Out of the System you are controlling. If a computer-based system, this will be connected to the computer’s MIDI Interface. If a non-computer based system, you may want to connect the MIDI In and MIDI Out to a MIDI Patch Bay ([...]

  • Page 20

    20 77 The System Section This chapter discusses the Utility Mode, the Time Code Display, and Program Change Mode. Utility Mode is used to control certain basic operating conditions, including such things as Memory Protect, Bank Names, and Memory Bulk Dump, etc. The Time Code Display features a Drop Frame indicator. Time can be displayed in either S[...]

  • Page 21

    21 Basic Operation This chapter discusses some fundamental characteristics of the MCS-3000 Series, what it does when powered up, operating modes, and the ever-popular wave demo. Power Up Turn the power switch on. The LCD briefly shows the product name and firmware version. The LCD then shows either the current Bank name, or the name and value of th[...]

  • Page 22

    22 LCD and Page Buttons If the already selected Page button is pressed, its LED will turn off and the LCD shows the Bank name. Press any Page button to restore the LCD to a display of the encoder names and values. If connected to an audio or video host system, developed to communicate directly the MCS Controller, the LCD may also change when the ho[...]

  • Page 23

    23 More About User Assignable Mode The MCS Controller normally powers up in User Assignable mode. The expression, “local control on” simply means that you can push a button and generally expect its LED to turn on. The LED can be assigned by the user to be either momentary, or latched. Momentary means the LED is lit only while the button is pres[...]

  • Page 24

    24 LED Behavior in Special Mode The LED can appear to behave either momentary, or latched. Momentary means the LED is lit only while the button is pressed. It turns off when you release the button. Latched means that the LED turns on with the first button press, and then turns off with the second button press. Alternately, the LED can flash, or do [...]

  • Page 25

    25 Manually Exiting Special Mode A host software system, engineered to support the MCS Controller using Special Mode, will send a command which switches the unit into Special Mode. At this point, the MCS is no longer user-programmable. The user may choose, however, to manually exit the Special Mode and return to User Assignable mode, without having[...]

  • Page 26

    26 W ave Demo For the fader wave demo, hold the UP cursor button while powering up the unit. Continue to hold it for about 3 seconds, until the demo starts. Turn the power off to stop the demo. 71 About Query Mode When a switch is set to Query, it will not send a command. When pressed, it puts the whole unit into Query mode. In Query mode, no comma[...]

  • Page 27

    27 The Mixer Section This chapter discusses how to assign and use the motorized, touch sensitive faders, their associated channel switches above the faders, their associated Select buttons and Rotary Encoders. Page buttons and Bank buttons. Before proceeding, it is important to briefly restate the Basic Modes of Operation: User Assignable Mode vs. [...]

  • Page 28

    28 Basic Bank Switching and Encoder Selection Prior to moving a fader, pressing a button above the faders, or turning an encoder knob, choose a Bank. Press one of the four Bank switches to the right of the LCD. The actual effect of the Bank switch is also dependent upon the number of MCS-3000X Expanders connected. For example, with 3 Expanders conn[...]

  • Page 29

    29 Fader Output Moving a fader sends a range of MIDI commands. Typically, this will be a controller or a note, with the controller or note number specified by the user. (If the MCS is still in its initialized state, refer to the Initialized Settings section of the Technical Information chapter, page xx, for a detailed listing of commands and channe[...]

  • Page 30

    30 T ouch Sensor A single command is sent every time a fader is touched, and the same command is sent when the fader is released. A user assigned value is sent when the fader is touched, a different value is sent when the fader is released. A typical application is to use the touch sensor to arm a fader for writing automation moves, within software[...]

  • Page 31

    31 Encoders, Select and Page The top row of Channel buttons are the Select buttons 1 - 8. The Select buttons are user assignable, and pressing them can result in transmitting a MIDI command. But they also have an important function relating to the operation of the 5 rotary encoders. Select a channel by pressing a Select button. This makes the LCD i[...]

  • Page 32

    32 Assigning Mixer Controls An Overview The general procedure to change (edit) what a control sends or change its name, is to enter Assign Mode by pressing Assign. then do the following: 1. Select the control by moving it. This control is “held” in the LCD display, and you cannot at this point decide to edit a different control. If you meant to[...]

  • Page 33

    33 T o Assign a Fader or a T ouch Sensor Since the faders and touch sensors are Bank-switchable, select the desired Bank before entering Assign mode. In other words, if assigning the first fader, the Bank switch will determine if the first fader is channel 1, or 9, or 17, or 25. Press Assign to enter Assign mode. The yellow LED is lit. After enteri[...]

  • Page 34

    34 Editable Parameters for the Faders and Touch Sensors Name Press the Cancel/Clear key in the Keypad to clear the name. Use the Cursor buttons to the left of the LCD to move the cursor. Turn the first encoder to dial in the letters and numbers. The top row of the LCD show the control's real (permanent) name. The bottom row of the LCD is the u[...]

  • Page 35

    35 Group The selected control that you are currently editing can be made a group member. By rotating the encoder under the word Group, the LCD prompts you to select which fader will be the Master for that control. Faders that are grouped can still be moved individually. When the master is moved, the group member faders' positions and output va[...]

  • Page 36

    36 T o Assign the Rotary Encoders First switch to the desired Bank. Then, select a channel by pressing a Select button at the top of the fader channel. Finally, select one of the 8 Page buttons. Press Assign to enter Assign mode. The yellow LED is lit. After entering Assign mode, rotating an Encoder knob selects which one of the five encoders you w[...]

  • Page 37

    37 Editable Parameters for the Rotary Encoders Name The 40 encoders per channel and the switches share the same name as the fader. Press the Cancel/Clear key in the Keypad to clear the name. Use the Cursor buttons to the left of the LCD to move the cursor. Turn the first encoder to dial in the letters and numbers. Command Rotary Encoders send eithe[...]

  • Page 38

    38 T o Assign Mute, Solo, Aux and Select Buttons Since the Mute, Solo, Aux, and Select buttons are Bank- switchable, select the desired Bank before entering Assign mode. Keep in mind that the Select buttons have two functions. (1) They are used to select a set of 40 virtual encoders associated with each channel. (2) For maximum user-flexibility, th[...]

  • Page 39

    39 Editable Parameters for Mute, Solo, Aux, and Select Name The 40 encoders per channel and the switches share the same name as the fader. Press the Cancel/Clear key in the Keypad to clear the name. Use the Cursor buttons to the left of the LCD to move the cursor. Turn the first encoder to dial in the letters and numbers. Command Mute, Solo, Aux an[...]

  • Page 40

    40 Maximum (or Velocity) Maximum controller or note velocity value. If the switch is Latch Off (see below), this is the value sent when the switch is pressed. If the switch is Latch On (see below), this is the value sent every other press, when the LED turns On. Group The selected control that you are currently editing can be made a group member. B[...]

  • Page 41

    41 Mixer Operation Notes Banks Remember Last Fader Position When a Bank switch is pressed, the faders snap to their last position in that bank. The fader position may have been established by the user manually moving the fader. For example, move Fader 1 up to the top in the first bank. Switch banks. Switch back to the first bank, and fader 1 jumps [...]

  • Page 42

    42 Touch May Interfere with Mapping Faders to Host Some software applications require that the user "map" the MCS faders to the host computer's on-screen faders. Sometimes this procedure is called "capturing" or "learning" the fader commands. Some software applications achieve this by instructing the user to move [...]

  • Page 43

    43 Fader Groups Traverse Banks A fader or channel switch may be made into a Group Master. Activating the control (moving a fader, pressing a button) results in data being sent for that control, and all members of the group. A Group Master may have members that are in different Banks than the Group Master. For example, Fader 8 can be a Group Master,[...]

  • Page 44

    44 Grand Masters Require Grand Master On Switch The Grand Master feature is designed in such a way to permit you to turn the grand master feature on and off with a single button press. This allows you to use the fader individually or as a Grand Master. To use the Grand Master feature, you also assign one button (F, M, W) to be the "Grand Maste[...]

  • Page 45

    45 Moving Faders with MIDI Data Created Off Line To produce smooth, continuous movement, the MCS must receive a series of controller commands with consecutive, up- counting or down-counting values with respect to time. This becomes important should your software allow the provision of recording events “off line.” You might wish to manually ente[...]

  • Page 46

    46 MCS-3000X Expanders and Bank Switching Scenarios The maximum number of fader channels that can be controlled by a single MCS-3800 is 64, including the 8 faders on the 3800 itself. Understand that the addition of 8 faders also adds 8 Select buttons. Since each Select button allows access to 40 virtual encoders, a single MCS-3000X Expander adds 32[...]

  • Page 47

    47 The T ransport Section This chapter discusses how to assign and use the transport controls (that is, Play Stop etc.), the Jog Wheel and Shuttle Ring, the Machine Enable (“M”) buttons, and the Keypad Locates. Before proceeding, it is important to briefly restate the Basic Modes of Operation: User Assignable Mode vs. Special Mode. In the User [...]

  • Page 48

    48 M Buttons There are two completely different purposes for the M Buttons. (1) Like other buttons, they can be assigned to send a command when pressed. (2) They can serve as instant Machine Enable-Disable buttons. They control which machine will respond to Transport, Locate, and Jog / Shuttle commands. For example, in the initialized (Factory pres[...]

  • Page 49

    48 M Buttons There are two completely different purposes for the M Buttons. (1) Like other buttons, they can be assigned to send a command when pressed. (2) They can serve as instant Machine Enable-Disable buttons. They control which machine will respond to Transport, Locate, and Jog / Shuttle commands. For example, in the initialized (Factory pres[...]

  • Page 50

    47 The T ransport Section This chapter discusses how to assign and use the transport controls (that is, Play Stop etc.), the Jog Wheel and Shuttle Ring, the Machine Enable (“M”) buttons, and the Keypad Locates. Before proceeding, it is important to briefly restate the Basic Modes of Operation: User Assignable Mode vs. Special Mode. In the User [...]

  • Page 51

    46 MCS-3000X Expanders and Bank Switching Scenarios The maximum number of fader channels that can be controlled by a single MCS-3800 is 64, including the 8 faders on the 3800 itself. Understand that the addition of 8 faders also adds 8 Select buttons. Since each Select button allows access to 40 virtual encoders, a single MCS-3000X Expander adds 32[...]

  • Page 52

    45 Moving Faders with MIDI Data Created Off Line To produce smooth, continuous movement, the MCS must receive a series of controller commands with consecutive, up- counting or down-counting values with respect to time. This becomes important should your software allow the provision of recording events “off line.” You might wish to manually ente[...]

  • Page 53

    44 Grand Masters Require Grand Master On Switch The Grand Master feature is designed in such a way to permit you to turn the grand master feature on and off with a single button press. This allows you to use the fader individually or as a Grand Master. To use the Grand Master feature, you also assign one button (F, M, W) to be the "Grand Maste[...]

  • Page 54

    43 Fader Groups Traverse Banks A fader or channel switch may be made into a Group Master. Activating the control (moving a fader, pressing a button) results in data being sent for that control, and all members of the group. A Group Master may have members that are in different Banks than the Group Master. For example, Fader 8 can be a Group Master,[...]

  • Page 55

    42 Touch May Interfere with Mapping Faders to Host Some software applications require that the user "map" the MCS faders to the host computer's on-screen faders. Sometimes this procedure is called "capturing" or "learning" the fader commands. Some software applications achieve this by instructing the user to move [...]

  • Page 56

    41 Mixer Operation Notes Banks Remember Last Fader Position When a Bank switch is pressed, the faders snap to their last position in that bank. The fader position may have been established by the user manually moving the fader. For example, move Fader 1 up to the top in the first bank. Switch banks. Switch back to the first bank, and fader 1 jumps [...]

  • Page 57

    40 Maximum (or Velocity) Maximum controller or note velocity value. If the switch is Latch Off (see below), this is the value sent when the switch is pressed. If the switch is Latch On (see below), this is the value sent every other press, when the LED turns On. Group The selected control that you are currently editing can be made a group member. B[...]

  • Page 58

    39 Editable Parameters for Mute, Solo, Aux, and Select Name The 40 encoders per channel and the switches share the same name as the fader. Press the Cancel/Clear key in the Keypad to clear the name. Use the Cursor buttons to the left of the LCD to move the cursor. Turn the first encoder to dial in the letters and numbers. Command Mute, Solo, Aux an[...]

  • Page 59

    38 T o Assign Mute, Solo, Aux and Select Buttons Since the Mute, Solo, Aux, and Select buttons are Bank- switchable, select the desired Bank before entering Assign mode. Keep in mind that the Select buttons have two functions. (1) They are used to select a set of 40 virtual encoders associated with each channel. (2) For maximum user-flexibility, th[...]

  • Page 60

    37 Editable Parameters for the Rotary Encoders Name The 40 encoders per channel and the switches share the same name as the fader. Press the Cancel/Clear key in the Keypad to clear the name. Use the Cursor buttons to the left of the LCD to move the cursor. Turn the first encoder to dial in the letters and numbers. Command Rotary Encoders send eithe[...]

  • Page 61

    36 T o Assign the Rotary Encoders First switch to the desired Bank. Then, select a channel by pressing a Select button at the top of the fader channel. Finally, select one of the 8 Page buttons. Press Assign to enter Assign mode. The yellow LED is lit. After entering Assign mode, rotating an Encoder knob selects which one of the five encoders you w[...]

  • Page 62

    35 Group The selected control that you are currently editing can be made a group member. By rotating the encoder under the word Group, the LCD prompts you to select which fader will be the Master for that control. Faders that are grouped can still be moved individually. When the master is moved, the group member faders' positions and output va[...]

  • Page 63

    34 Editable Parameters for the Faders and Touch Sensors Name Press the Cancel/Clear key in the Keypad to clear the name. Use the Cursor buttons to the left of the LCD to move the cursor. Turn the first encoder to dial in the letters and numbers. The top row of the LCD show the control's real (permanent) name. The bottom row of the LCD is the u[...]

  • Page 64

    33 T o Assign a Fader or a T ouch Sensor Since the faders and touch sensors are Bank-switchable, select the desired Bank before entering Assign mode. In other words, if assigning the first fader, the Bank switch will determine if the first fader is channel 1, or 9, or 17, or 25. Press Assign to enter Assign mode. The yellow LED is lit. After enteri[...]

  • Page 65

    32 Assigning Mixer Controls An Overview The general procedure to change (edit) what a control sends or change its name, is to enter Assign Mode by pressing Assign. then do the following: 1. Select the control by moving it. This control is “held” in the LCD display, and you cannot at this point decide to edit a different control. If you meant to[...]

  • Page 66

    31 Encoders, Select and Page The top row of Channel buttons are the Select buttons 1 - 8. The Select buttons are user assignable, and pressing them can result in transmitting a MIDI command. But they also have an important function relating to the operation of the 5 rotary encoders. Select a channel by pressing a Select button. This makes the LCD i[...]

  • Page 67

    30 T ouch Sensor A single command is sent every time a fader is touched, and the same command is sent when the fader is released. A user assigned value is sent when the fader is touched, a different value is sent when the fader is released. A typical application is to use the touch sensor to arm a fader for writing automation moves, within software[...]

  • Page 68

    29 Fader Output Moving a fader sends a range of MIDI commands. Typically, this will be a controller or a note, with the controller or note number specified by the user. (If the MCS is still in its initialized state, refer to the Initialized Settings section of the Technical Information chapter, page xx, for a detailed listing of commands and channe[...]

  • Page 69

    28 Basic Bank Switching and Encoder Selection Prior to moving a fader, pressing a button above the faders, or turning an encoder knob, choose a Bank. Press one of the four Bank switches to the right of the LCD. The actual effect of the Bank switch is also dependent upon the number of MCS-3000X Expanders connected. For example, with 3 Expanders conn[...]

  • Page 70

    27 The Mixer Section This chapter discusses how to assign and use the motorized, touch sensitive faders, their associated channel switches above the faders, their associated Select buttons and Rotary Encoders. Page buttons and Bank buttons. Before proceeding, it is important to briefly restate the Basic Modes of Operation: User Assignable Mode vs. [...]

  • Page 71

    26 W ave Demo For the fader wave demo, hold the UP cursor button while powering up the unit. Continue to hold it for about 3 seconds, until the demo starts. Turn the power off to stop the demo. 71 About Query Mode When a switch is set to Query, it will not send a command. When pressed, it puts the whole unit into Query mode. In Query mode, no comma[...]

  • Page 72

    25 Manually Exiting Special Mode A host software system, engineered to support the MCS Controller using Special Mode, will send a command which switches the unit into Special Mode. At this point, the MCS is no longer user-programmable. The user may choose, however, to manually exit the Special Mode and return to User Assignable mode, without having[...]

  • Page 73

    24 LED Behavior in Special Mode The LED can appear to behave either momentary, or latched. Momentary means the LED is lit only while the button is pressed. It turns off when you release the button. Latched means that the LED turns on with the first button press, and then turns off with the second button press. Alternately, the LED can flash, or do [...]

  • Page 74

    23 More About User Assignable Mode The MCS Controller normally powers up in User Assignable mode. The expression, “local control on” simply means that you can push a button and generally expect its LED to turn on. The LED can be assigned by the user to be either momentary, or latched. Momentary means the LED is lit only while the button is pres[...]

  • Page 75

    22 LCD and Page Buttons If the already selected Page button is pressed, its LED will turn off and the LCD shows the Bank name. Press any Page button to restore the LCD to a display of the encoder names and values. If connected to an audio or video host system, developed to communicate directly the MCS Controller, the LCD may also change when the ho[...]

  • Page 76

    21 Basic Operation This chapter discusses some fundamental characteristics of the MCS-3000 Series, what it does when powered up, operating modes, and the ever-popular wave demo. Power Up Turn the power switch on. The LCD briefly shows the product name and firmware version. The LCD then shows either the current Bank name, or the name and value of th[...]

  • Page 77

    20 77 The System Section This chapter discusses the Utility Mode, the Time Code Display, and Program Change Mode. Utility Mode is used to control certain basic operating conditions, including such things as Memory Protect, Bank Names, and Memory Bulk Dump, etc. The Time Code Display features a Drop Frame indicator. Time can be displayed in either S[...]

  • Page 78

    19 MIDI In and Out Connect the MIDI Out to the MIDI In of the System you are controlling. Connect the MIDI In to the MIDI Out of the System you are controlling. If a computer-based system, this will be connected to the computer’s MIDI Interface. If a non-computer based system, you may want to connect the MIDI In and MIDI Out to a MIDI Patch Bay ([...]

  • Page 79

    18 System Connections Power Make sure the power switch is off before connecting the external power supply. Power should be turned off of every MCS-3000X Expander. There is a strain relief clip on the back of the unit, to prevent accidental unplugging. Pass the small plug end of the power supply through this clip. Loop it around and pass it through [...]

  • Page 80

    17 (2) To Use 3000X “Stand Alone” without an MCS-3800 Set the rear DIP switch position #4 down (= ON) When the rear dip switch number 4 is down, that is, on, you will use the MCS-3000X’s MIDI input and MIDI output. (The MCS-3000X’s modular “telephone-type” connectors are not used in this modes) When the rear dip switch number 4 is down,[...]

  • Page 81

    16 Set the Expander ID# On the rear of the Expander is a small cluster of four switches, known as DIP switches. When the rear dip switch number 4 is up, that is, off, the 3 remaining switches are used to set the “ID” number of the 3000X Expander. These switches set the ID# of each Expander, so the system knows which Expander represents channels[...]

  • Page 82

    15 3000X Expander Electrical Hookup Important: Make All Connections with the Power Off. Turn the power off of all MCS-3000 units before proceeding. The 3000X (8 moving fader controller) can be used either: (1) Connected to an MCS-3800 (or 3400) or (2) “Stand Alone”, as a self contained control surface. On the rear of the Expander is a small clu[...]

  • Page 83

    14 Mounting MCS-3000X Expander to Controller Important: Make All Connections with the Power Off. Turn the power off of all MCS-3000 units before proceeding. Plan Work Area You will want to work at a spacious, well lit surface. Spread a cloth on the surface to avoid scratching units. Remove Top of MCS-3400 or MCS-3800 Controller Using the allen key [...]

  • Page 84

    13 Expander Connection The MCS-3000X Expanders may be physically attached to the MCS-3400 or MCS-3800 Controller, forming a continuous control surface. (MCS-3800 shown with 3 MCS-3000X Expanders attached) Alternately, the Expander can stand apart from the MCS Controller. In that case, an optional set of simulated stone end- bells may be purchased t[...]

  • Page 85

    12 85 Switch MIDI Chan Controller# up 16 30 Shifted up 16 31 down 16 32 Shifted down 16 33 left 16 34 Shifted left 16 35 right 16 36 Shifted right 16 37 Mute Chan 1, Bank 1 15 00, etc. Mute Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 07 Solo Chan 1, Bank 1 “ 08, etc. Solo Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 0F Aux Chan 1, Bank 1 “ 10, etc. Aux Chan 8, Bank 1 “ 17 Sel Chan 1, Bank 1 ?[...]

  • Page 86

    11 Rear Panel MCS-3800 is shown, the MCS-3400 is similar. From left to right we have: • MIDI In, MIDI Out • LCD Contrast Control • MCS-3000X Expander Connector • Time Code Input The input jack is 1/4”, unbalanced, that is, tip & sleeve. • Card Slot #1 and Card Slot #2 Accepts optional, user installable plug in cards for additional c[...]

  • Page 87

    10 The System Section The System Section is comprised of the Cursor Buttons, the Rotary Encoders, and the Assign Button. The Shift button is included, because Shift Assign puts the unit into Utility mode, and Shift Locate changes the function of the Keypad from Locates to Program Changes. The LCD is used to primarily to display the names of control[...]

  • Page 88

    9 The T ransport Section The Transport Section is comprised primarily of the Transport Controls: Rewind, Fast Forward, Stop, Play and Record, and also the Jog / Shuttle mechanism. Other controls that can be considered part of the Transport Section include the Keypad, since once of its functions is to send Locate commands. The M buttons may be used [...]

  • Page 89

    8 The Mixer Section The Mixer Section is comprised of the motorized, touch sensitive faders, the buttons above the faders, the five rotary encoders, and the Page and Bank Switches. The Function Buttons Section This is comprised of the buttons F1 through F8, Shift, W1 through W5, M1 through M5, the Cursor Buttons. 89 W arranty JLCooper Electronics ([...]

  • Page 90

    7 Getting Started This chapter discusses the MCS-3000 Series hardware, describing the front and rear panel controls, viewing the front panel in "sections", the displays and connectors, and how to interconnect it into your system. Front Panel Displays and Contr ols The illustrations show the MCS-3800, which is operationally the same as the[...]

  • Page 91

    6 The Function Buttons Section .............................. 65 This chapter discusses how to use the assignable F buttons, W Buttons, the Cursor Buttons and M buttons. Attributes of Function Buttons ................................ 65 Assigning Function Buttons, an Overview ............. 67 To Assign F and M Buttons ..............................[...]

  • Page 92

    5 The Mixer Section .................................................. 27 This chapter discusses how to assign and use the motorized, touch sensitive faders, their associated channel switches above the faders, select buttons and rotary encoders, Page and Bank buttons. Attributes of the Mixer Section ................................ 27 Basic Bank Sw[...]

  • Page 93

    4 T able of Contents Introduction ............................................................. 3 Getting Started ......................................................... 7 This chapter discusses the MCS-3000 Series hardware, describing the front and rear panel controls, viewing the front panel in "sections", the displays and connectors,[...]

  • Page 94

    3 Introduction The MCS-3000 series of control stations are the most advanced control products ever from JLCooper Electronics. This family of products includes the 8 fader MCS-3800 Controller, the 4 fader MCS-3400 Controller, the MCS-3000X 8 fader Expander, and the Surround Panner Module. MCS-3800 and MCS-3400 Media Command Stations are moving fader[...]

  • Page 95

    2 Important: Certain audio and video systems have been engineered to specifically support the MCS-3000 series. The MCS-3000 series was selected by the manufacturers of those systems to be their ideal, de facto control station. Please review the owners manuals and “read me” files that came with your audio or video system for references to the JL[...]

  • Page 96

    96 Quick Operation Reference Entering and Exiting Utility Mode Enter Utility Mode by pressing Shift and Assign. Utility has three pages, selected with the right-most encoder. Exit Utility Mode by pressing Assign. Protect When On, user cannot enter Assign Mode. Display alerts user memory is protected when attempting to enter Assign Mode. Dump Rotate[...]

  • Page 97

    September 16, 2009 920394 Ethernet Interface Installation Page 1 920394 Ethernet Interface Card Installation and Configuration This document covers the installation, initialization, and operation of the 920394 Ethernet Interface Card. Once installed, Ethernet becomes the only possible communications m ethod with the MCS-3800, MCS-3400 or MCS- 3000.[...]

  • Page 98

    September 16, 2009 920394 Ethernet Interface Installation Page 2 2. The Ethernet MAC address is printed on a label attached to the card. In the unlikely event that this address is needed, you might want to copy it down before installing. 3. Install the Card into the "Slot 1" position using the screws previously attaching the blank plate o[...]

  • Page 99

    September 16, 2009 920394 Ethernet Interface Installation Page 3 e. The Port number will now appear as a five-digit number. If you do not wish to change it, press ENTER. If you do wish to change it, it must be entered as a five- digit number. For instance, if you wish for port #80, you must enter 00080. If a mistake is m ade, press the CLEAR button[...]