IPL Pro S6 - Processor Extron - Free user manual and instructions
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| Product Type | AV Processor / Control System |
| Brand | Extron |
| Model | IPL Pro S6 |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 17.0" x 1.7" x 9.0" (43.2 cm x 4.3 cm x 22.9 cm) |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) |
| Power Supply | 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 0.5 A |
| Power Consumption | 20 W (max) |
| Ethernet Control | 1 x RJ-45, 10/100 Mbps |
| Serial Ports | 6 x RS-232 (DB-9) |
| IR Control | 2 x IR emitter, 1 x IR receiver |
| Relay Ports | 4 x relay (2-pole) |
| Digital I/O | 4 x digital I/O |
| Rackmountable | Yes, 1U rackmount |
| Operating Temperature | 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C) |
| Storage Temperature | -4°F to 158°F (-20°C to 70°C) |
| Software Support | Extron Global Configurator Plus/Pro |
| Firmware Upgrade | Via Ethernet or USB |
| Maintenance & Cleaning | Wipe with a dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquids or solvents. |
| Safety Precautions | Follow all instructions in the manual. Do not expose to moisture or operate in a dusty environment. |
| Spare Parts & Repairability | Contact Extron support for authorized service and replacement parts. |
| General Information | Designed for centralized AV system control in commercial and educational environments. |
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USER MANUAL IPL Pro S6 Extron
IP Link Pro Control Processors

Safety Instructions
Safety Instructions • English

WARNING: This symbol, ⚠, when used on the product, is intended to alert the user of the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage within the product's enclosure that may present a risk of electric shock.
ATTENTION:
This symbol, ⚠, when used on the product, is intended
to alert the user of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature provided with the equipment.
For information on safety guidelines, regulatory compliances, EMI/EMF compatibility, accessibility, and related topics, see the Extron Safety and Regulatory Compliance Guide, part number 68-290-01, on the Extron website, www.extron.com
All trademarks mentioned in this guide are the properties of their respective owners.
The following registered trademarks (@), registered service marks (TM), and trademarks (TM) are the property of RGB Systems, Inc. or Extron (see the current list of trademarks on the Terms of Use page at www.extron.com):
| Registered Trademarks (®) |
| Extron, Cable Cubby, ControlScript, CrossPoint, DTP, eBUS, EDID Manager, EDID Minder, eLink, Flat Field, FlexOS, Glitch Free, Global Configurator, Global Scripter, GlobalViewer, Hideaway, HyperLane, IP Intercom, IP Link, Key Minder, LinkLicense, LockIt, MediaLink, MediaPort, NAV, NetPA, PlenumVault, PoleVault, PowerCage, PURE3, Quantum, ShareLink, Show Me, SoundField, SpeedMount, SpeedSwitch, StudioStation, SystemINTEGRATOR, TeamWork, TouchLink, V-Lock, VideoLounge, VN-Matrix, VoiceLift, WallVault, WindoWall, XPA, XTP, XTP Systems, and ZipClip |
| Registered Service Mark (SM) : S3 Service Support Solutions |
| Trademarks (TM) |
| AAP, AFL (Accu-RATE Frame Lock), ADSP (Advanced Digital Sync Processing), AVEdge, CableCover, CDRS (Class D Ripple Suppression), Codec Connect, DDSP (Digital Display Sync Processing), DMI (Dynamic Motion Interpolation), Driver Configurator, DSP Configurator, DSVP (Digital Sync Validation Processing), EQIP, Everlast, FastBite, Flex55, FOX, FOXBOX, IP Intercom HelpDesk, MAAP, MicroDigital, Opti-Torque, PendantConnect, ProDSP, QS-FPC (QuickSwitch Front Panel Controller), Room Agent, Scope-Trigger, SIS, Simple Instruction Set, Skew-Free, SpeedNav, Triple-Action Switching, True4K, True8K, Vector* 4K, WebShare, XTRA, and ZipCaddy |
FCC Class A Notice
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. The Class A limits provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause interference. This interference must be corrected at the expense of the user.
NOTE: For more information on safety guidelines, regulatory compliances, EMI/EMF compatibility, accessibility, and related topics, see the Extron Safety and Regulatory Compliance Guide on the Extron website.
Battery Notice
This product contains a battery. Do not open the unit to replace the battery. If the battery needs replacing, return the entire unit to Extron (for the correct address, see the Extron Warranty section on the last page of this guide).
CAUTION: Risk of explosion. Do not replace the battery with an incorrect type. Dispose of used batteries according to the instructions.
Conventions Used in this Guide
Notifications
The following notifications are used in this guide:
CAUTION: Risk of minor personal injury.
NOTE: A note draws attention to important information.
TIP: A tip provides a suggestion to make working with the application easier.
Software Commands
Commands are written in the fonts shown here:
^AR Merge Scene,,Op1 scene 1,1^B 51^W^C
[01]R000400300004000080000600 [02]35 [17] [03]
Esc X1 * X17 * X20 * X23 * X21 CE ←
NOTE: For commands and examples of computer or device responses mentioned in this guide, the character “o” is used for the number zero and “O” is the capital letter “o.”
Computer responses and directory paths that do not have variables are written in the font shown here:
Reply from 208.132.180.48: bytes=32 times=2ms TTL=32
C:\Program Files\Extron
Variables are written in slanted form as shown here:
ping xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx -t
SOH R Data STX Command ETB ETX
Selectable items, such as menu names, menu options, buttons, tabs, and field names are written in the font shown here:
From the File menu, select New.
Click the OK button.
Specifications Availability
Product specifications are available on the Extron website, www.extron.com.
Extron Glossary of Terms
A glossary of terms is available at http://www.extron.com/technology/glossary.aspx.
Contents
Introduction ...... 1
Before You Begin....1
What This Guide Covers....1
Conventions Used in This Guide....1
Important Information You Need Before Installation .... 1
About the IPL Pro Series 2
Features 2
Feature Summary Table 3
Application Diagrams......4
Device Control....5
About Global Configurator (with GC Professional and GC Plus Modes) 5
About Global Scripter 5
PC System Requirements....6
Hardware Features and Installation ......7
Setup Checklist: How to Proceed
With Installation 7
Get Ready 7
Mount and Cable All Devices 8
Set up the Control Processor, Touchpanels, and Network Button Panels for Network Communication....8
Configure or Program the Control Processor, Touchpanels, and Network Button Panels ..... 9
Test and Troubleshoot....9
Network Communication Setup....10
Front Panel Features....11
Reset Features 11
IR Learning Receiver....12
Mounting the IPL Pro Series 12
Mounting Options....12
UL Rack Mounting Guidelines....12
Rear Panel Features and Connections....13
Power Connections 14
Bidirectional Control and Communication Connections and Features....16
Unidirectional Control and Communication Connections....18
Resetting the Unit....21
Software-Based
Configuration and Control 24
Configuration and Control: an Overview......24
Basic Setup Steps: a Guide to this Section and Other Resources 25
Downloading the Software and Getting Started...26
Locating Software, Firmware, and Driver Files on the Extron Website....26
Obtaining Control Drivers....27
Things to Do After Installing GC and Before Starting a Project....28
Using GC: Helpful Tips 28
Troubleshooting....29
Power Connections 29
Data Connections....29
Device Control Connections and Configuration....29
Reference Information ....30
Network Port Requirements and Licensed Third-Party Software....30
File Types: a Key to Extron-specific File Names...30
Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Certificates ...... 31
IEEE 802.1X Certificates....32
Certificate File Requirements.... 32
Private Key File Requirements....33
SNMP 33
Firmware Updates....34
Determining the Firmware Version....34
Using Global Configurator and Toolbelt ...... 34
Using a Browser 34
Updating the Firmware 35
Locating and Downloading the Firmware ..... 35
Installing Firmware 35
Introduction
This section covers the following basic information you should know about this guide and the product before installation:
- Before You Begin
• About the IPL Pro Series
• Application Diagrams
• Device Control - About Global Configurator (with GC Professional and GC Plus Modes)
- About Global Scripter
• PC System Requirements
Before You Begin
What This Guide Covers
This user guide provides instructions for an experienced installer to install an Extron IPL Pro IP Link Pro Control Processor. This guide provides detailed information and recommends best practices for cabling the control processor. It provides a brief overview of the configuration process, and reference information.
Configure the control processor using Extron Global Configurator software running in Global Configurator Professional (GC Professional) or Global Configurator Plus (GC Plus) mode, or program it using Global Scripter. This guide does not contain instructions on detailed software-related setup steps or details of configuration within the software: those are covered in the Global Configurator Help File, the Global Scripter Help File, and help files for related programs. The software help files describe how to use each program to download drivers, add AV devices to a configuration, configure basic functions, and set up options such as schedules, macros, e-mail alerts, and touchpanel button configurations.
Conventions Used in This Guide
- Throughout this guide the IPL Pro Series products are also referred to as the "IPL," "IPL Pro," or "control processor."
- Global Configurator software is referred to as "GC," which can be run in Global Configurator Professional mode ("GC Professional") or Global Configurator Plus mode ("GC Plus").
- Global Scripter is sometimes referred to as "GS."
- The GlobalViewer Enterprise application is sometimes referred to as "GVE."
- Unless otherwise noted, in images of software or web pages, circled numbers correspond to the like-numbered procedural steps.
Important Information You Need Before Installation
The order and types of setup tasks for the IPL Pro Series control processors, TouchLink Pro touchpanels, and NBP or EBP button panels are important. Pay close attention to them. Follow the setup checklist in the Hardware Features and Installation section starting on page 7.
IPL Pro Series • Introduction 1
About the IPL Pro Series
The IPL Pro Series Control Processors integrate Ethernet connection into AV systems to allow users to remotely control, monitor, and troubleshoot AV equipment, including display devices, switchers, source devices, and various other items such as lights, a projector lift, or a screen motor. They can be used in a distributed control system environment or as stand-alone control processors.

Figure 1. IPL Pro S1 (left), IPL Pro S3 (center), IPL Pro S6 (right)

Figure 2. IPL Pro CR88 (left), IPL Pro IRS8 (right)
An IPL Pro Series control processor is the centerpiece of a control system that features Extron TouchLink Pro Touchpanels. The IPL Pro supports multiple TouchLink Pro touchpanels over a standard Ethernet network. The touchpanels provide a convenient interface for controlling the IPL, which, in turn, controls the other system components.
NOTE: GUI Designer is used to design the user interface layout of any Extron TouchLink Pro touchpanel that is used with the IPL.
Use the Extron Toolbelt software to discover and manage the IPL Pro control processor and other Extron control products. Configure the control processor using GC Professional or GC Plus, or program it using Global Scripter (GS). Once you have set up how you want it to work (set up IP addresses and functions, assigned drivers to ports, configured relays and contact input), that information is saved to a project configuration file that is built and uploaded into the IPL and to any optional TouchLink Pro touchpanels.
The IPL Pro Series integrates seamlessly with Extron GlobalViewer Enterprise software and Extron Control for Web, iOS, and Android for remote control applications.
Features
General features
Flexible options for device control — The various IPL Pro models all offer TCP/Ethernet control and monitoring, and, depending on the model, serial (RS-232) or infrared (IR)-based control, relay device control, and event monitoring via contact input ports.
Rack mountability — The IPL Pro S1 has a 1 inch high, quarter rack wide enclosure, and the other models are housed in a standard 1U high, quarter rack wide enclosure. They are easily rack mounted or can be installed in or under furniture with an optional mounting kit.
Support for Power over Ethernet (PoE) — The IPL supports power over Ethernet, which allows the control processor to receive both power and an Ethernet connection over a single connector.
Support for an external power supply — The IPL also supports connection to an external 12 VDC power supply (included) that accepts 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz input.
Network and configuration features
- Global compatibility — The IPL uses industry standard Ethernet communication protocols, including DHCP, DNS, HTTP, HTTPS, ICMP, NTP, SFTP, SMTP, SNMP, SSH, TCP/IP, and UDP/IP.
- Embedded web pages — The IPL embedded web pages include online diagnostics and monitoring of basic features.
- If the unit is configured to work with Extron Control, you can access the virtual user interfaces from a link in the embedded web page.
- Remote equipment management — The IP Link Pro connection allows you to remotely manage, monitor, and control several Ethernet-enabled products such as projectors, cameras, video conferencing equipment, switchers, and other AV equipment. The IPL provides support for the following:
- TCP, UDP, and HTTP connections
- Password protection using secure communication
- Up to 32 (GC Professional) or 8 (GC Plus) Ethernet devices at a time depending on the configuration mode
-
Connection via IP address or host name
-
Multi-level password protection — This allows security to be set based on user roles.
- System asset management — The configured system and control processor allow you to control, monitor, and schedule various functions of devices in the system.
- E-mail notification — The IPL can be set up to send e-mail notifications, such as a notice that a projector has been disconnected or the projector lamp has been used for a designated number of hours.
- Additional security features — Each control processor can use the included Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificate or a user-supplied, customized security certificate (see Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Certificates on page 31). IEEE 802.1X Authentication is also supported in Extron devices once enabled. For details see IEEE 802.1X Certificates on page 32.
Feature Summary Table
The following table provides a summary of models and major features.
| Model | Features | |||||||
| Ports | ||||||||
| Mounting | Power Supply | 5-pole COM | IR/Serial | Contact Input | Relay | LAN | IR Learning | |
| IPL Pro S1 | Rack | External or PoE | 1 — | — | — 1 — | |||
| IPL Pro S3 | 3 — | — | — 1 — | |||||
| IPL Pro S6 | 6 — | — | — 1 — | |||||
| IPL Pro IRS8 | — 8 | — | — 1 | √ | ||||
| IPL Pro CR88 | — — | 8 8 | 1 — | |||||
Application Diagrams
The following figures show examples of types of devices that can be connected to some of the ports on the IPL Pro Series control processors.
![graph TD A["Flat Panel Display"] --> B["Extron IPL Pro S1 IP Link Pro Control Processor"] B --> C["Media Player"] C --> D["Extron TLP Pro 520M 5" Wall Mount TouchLink Pro Touchpanel"] B --> E["RS-232"] B --> F["Ethernet /PoE"] B --> G["TCP/IP Network"] G --> H["Ethernet/ PoE"] H --> I["Extron"]…](/content/2026/05/1072994/images/a0fdfa197ba106ddadca76f16b72b0d9f1f61a4fa7f011a7d4bd01f40dc9ef1b.jpg)
Figure 3. An IPL Pro S1 Application
![graph TD A["Extron IPL Pro S6<br>IP Link Pro Control Processor"] -->|RS-232| B["HDCP-Compliant Displays"] A -->|RS-232| C["Control VLAN"] C -->|Ethernet| D["Extron TLP Pro 1520TG<br>15" Tabletop TouchLink Pro Touchpanel"] C -->|Ethernet| E["Quantum Elite Control Software"] E -->|Power Injector|…](/content/2026/05/1072994/images/ad5938dbcfd0c1bd0ad84e7beb8e50852a0ff2e84e739e83e3793b601b12709d.jpg)
Figure 4. An IPL Pro S6 Application
IPL Pro Series • Introduction 4
Device Control
The IPL must be configured in one of the following ways before it can send commands to a projector, display, or other device:
- An IR, RS-232 or Ethernet driver file can be downloaded from the Extron website (http://www.extron.com/download/index.aspx). The driver is saved to a folder and commands from the driver are incorporated into the GC configuration file for the control processor and any touchpanels that are selected to work with it. The configuration file is built and uploaded to the IPL via GC.
- If a driver is not already available, RS-232 or Ethernet command strings can be entered directly from a host computer using Global Configurator. These can then be incorporated into controls within the GC project.
- For an IPL Pro IRS8, IR commands can be entered directly from an IR remote control through IR learning. This can be done using IR Learner Pro to create a driver that the control processor can use. IR learning is seldom needed, but it is convenient for installing new or updated commands in the field in the rare cases when a driver is not already available from Extron.
See the Global Configurator Help File (which is included with the software) for details on setting up the IPL and for downloading, programming, or learning device control commands.
About Global Configurator (with GC Professional and GC Plus Modes)
Global Configurator:
- Loads device drivers for monitoring the status of and controlling devices within the AV system.
- Uploads GUI Designer interface layouts to touchpanels and third-party touch interfaces.
- Creates the configuration containing all the settings for the control processor and the products with which it interacts in the AV system.
- Uploads the configuration to the control processor.
To obtain Extron control product software, you must have an Extron Insider account and contact an Extron support representative. Extron provides training to our customers on how to use the software. Access to the full set of features in Global Configurator Professional is available to users who successfully complete Extron Control Professional Certification.
About Global Scripter
For those who prefer to program control systems rather than configure them, Extron offers Global Scripter as an alternative to Global Configurator. Global Scripter is an integrated programming development environment for Extron IP Link Pro, TouchLink Pro, and eBUS products. It uses the object-oriented Python programming language and a custom Python library called ControlScript. Global Scripter includes the ControlScript API as well as all of the tools for developing control system programs, such as file management, code editing, debugging and diagnostic tools. More information is available at http://www.extron.com/technology/landing/programming/.
PC System Requirements
To find the minimum hardware and software requirements for the PC you use to configure the IPL Pro Series:
- Visit the Download page (http://www.extron.com/download/index.aspx) on the Extron website and navigate to the web page for the specific software package (such as Global Configurator and GUI Designer). Minimum PC hardware and software system requirements are listed in the description section. In some cases, minimum device firmware version requirements are also listed there.
- If system requirements are not listed on the software package web page, contact an Extron support representative.
Hardware Features and Installation
This section covers the following material:
- Setup Checklist: How to Proceed With Installation — A checklist of tasks to guide you through installation
• Network Communication Setup — A flowchart guide to network settings configuration - Front Panel Features — Locations and some descriptions of items on the front panel
- Mounting the IPL Pro Series — Brief guidelines for mounting
- Rear Panel Features and Connections — Locations, descriptions, and cabling notes for rear panel features and corresponding front panel indications
- Resetting the Unit — Information about the available reset modes and how to reset the IPL
Pay careful attention to the order and types of setup tasks. Follow the setup checklist in this guide or in the setup guide and keep it with you for reference throughout the installation and configuration process.
Setup Checklist: How to Proceed With Installation
Get Ready
Familiarize yourself with the features of the control processor (see Front Panel Features on page 11 and Rear Panel Features and Connections on page 13) and of any TouchLink Pro touchpanels or button panels that are part of the system.
☐ Download and install the latest version of the following:
□ Toolbelt software — for discovering the control processor and other control products on the network, for managing core settings, and for upgrading firmware when needed
Global Configurator (GC) software — for configuring the control system
Global Scripter software — for programming the control processor (as an alternative to GC)
☐ GUI Designer software — for designing layouts for Extron TouchLink Pro touchpanels and third-party touch interfaces
☐ IP Link Pro device drivers — for use with GC, to make control of other devices possible
☐ IR Learner Pro software — for use with models that have IR receiver ports, to create your own IR drivers using the remote control of an AV device, if drivers are not already available from Extron
All are available from www.extron.com (see Locating Software, Firmware, and Driver Files on the Extron Website on page 26).
☐ Obtain network information for the unit from the network administrator. You need the following details for each IP Link Pro device:
☐ DHCP setting (on or off) ☐ Gateway IP address
☐ D(PicPro, TouchLink Pro, IPCP Pro) ☐ User name P address ☐ Passwords
□ Subnet mask
Write down the MAC address of each IP Link Pro device to be used.
☐ Obtain model names and setup information for devices the IPL is going to control.
☐ Each control processor comes with a factory-installed Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) security certificate. If you intend to install a different SSL certificate, contact your IT department to obtain the certificate or for instructions on how to obtain one. See Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Certificates on page 31 for requirements and guidelines regarding SSL certificates.
☐ For systems that are going to use IEEE 802.1X security, obtain a PEM-encoded security certificate and private key (see IEEE 802.1X Certificates on page 32) from your IT department.
Mount and Cable All Devices
☐ Mount the unit to a rack or furniture (see Mounting the IPL Pro Series on page 12).
☐ Cable devices to the control processor (see Rear Panel Features and Connections starting on page 13).
☐ Connect power cords and power on all the devices.
Set up the Control Processor, Touchpanels, and Network Button Panels for Network Communication
☐ Connect the PC to be used for setup, the control processor, and the touchpanels or network button panels to the same Ethernet subnetwork. For control processor LAN connections, see LAN/PoE (IP) connectors and LEDs on page 17.
☐ Start Toolbelt and use it to set the IP address, subnet, gateway IP address, DHCP status, and related settings (see the flowchart in Network Communication Setup on page 10).
NOTE: When setting up DHCP during network configuration or if using a host name instead of an IP address, the user must enter a qualified host name (Username.HostName.Domain). For example: somename.extron.com.
Configure or Program the Control Processor, Touchpanels, and Network Button Panels
☐ If TouchLink Pro touchpanels are part of the system, start and use GUI Designer to design, save, and build the graphical user interface (GUI) layout for the touchpanels (see the GUI Designer Help File for instructions).
NOTE: To redeem (activate) a LinkLicense, go to www.extron.com/llredeem and follow the online instructions.
☐ Using GC, create a new GC Professional or GC Plus project and configure the control processor and other IP Link Pro devices. The configuration tells the control processor:
• How its ports function • What to monitor
• How to control other products • When to do things
• Which touchpanels to interact with
- Whom to notify, how, and under what circumstances
☐ Configure ports on the control processor.
☐ Select device drivers and link them to each serial, IR/serial, or Ethernet port.
☐ Select settings (serial protocol, relay behavior, contact input behavior) as needed.
☐ Add Network Button Panels (NBPs) and set them up. Assign button functions as desired.
☐ Set up monitors, schedules, macros, and local variables.
☐ Add touchpanels and set them up:
☐ Upload the GUI configuration to the Global Configurator project.
☐ Assign any appropriate functions, monitors, or schedules to the touchpanels and their buttons.
☐ If not using GC Professional or GC Plus, use Global Scripter to program the control system as desired.
☐ Program ports on the control processor.
☐ Program each serial, IR/serial, or Ethernet port.
☐ Program relay behavior and contact input settings as needed.
☐ Add Network Button Panels (NBPs) and set them up. Assign button functions as desired.
☐ Add touchpanels and set them up:
☐ Upload the GUI configuration to the Global Configurator project.
☐ Program functions, monitors, or schedules to the touchpanels and their buttons.
□ Save the project.
☐ Build and upload the system configuration to the control processor and other system devices.
Test and Troubleshoot
☐ Test the system. See the Troubleshooting section starting on page 29 for an outline of items to check during system troubleshooting.
☐ Make adjustments to wiring or configuration as needed.
Network Communication Setup
Network setup is essential prior to configuration. Use the flowchart as a guide to setting up the control processor for network use..
Network Communication Setup
![graph TD A["Connect the PC and the LAN port of the control processor to the same network.<br>Apply power to all devices."] --> B["Open the Toolbelt software from within Global Configurator (GC Professional or GC Plus mode) or as the stand-alone application.<br>Start Device Discovery.<br>Toolbelt dis…](/content/2026/05/1072994/images/f07ae8bf2439d888b26162954f7bee91e6514da9867f3dada9882c2635fda993.jpg)
NOTE: If using
802.1X security, see
the Extron 802.1X
Technology Reference
Guide and the
Toolbelt Help file for
additional details on
system setup.
Network Setup
Front Panel Features
Examples of front panel features are shown at right. The quantity and location of ports and corresponding front panel LEDs differ among IPL models. However, the functions of each type of port and their LEDs are identical for all models.
Most of the features and LED indications are described and shown in the Rear Panel Features and Connections section starting on page 13 paired with the descriptions of the corresponding rear panel ports.
NOTE: See the Software-based Configuration and Control section starting on page 24 and the Global Configurator Help File and Toolbelt Help File for information about Global Configurator and Toolbelt, which you must use to set up the unit.
Reset Features
Reset button and LED —
Pressing this recessed button causes various product settings to be reset to the factory defaults. The green power LED blinks depending on the selected reset mode (see Resetting the Unit on page 21 and the reset modes table on page 21 for details).

NOTE: Numbers adjacent to LEDs correspond to the like-numbered rear panel ports.
Figure 5. IPL Pro Series Front Panels
IR Learning Receiver
In most cases, Extron has already produced a driver file for controlling the projector, display, or source device you plan to use. If a device driver file is not available, you can create your own using Extron IR Learner Pro software, the remote control of the projector or display, and the IR learning receiver sensor on the IPL, shown below.
This receiver accepts infrared signals of from 30 kHz to 300 kHz. The IR remote control must be pointed directly at the receiver for best results. The diagram at right indicates the best distances and angles at which to hold the remote control.

Mounting the IPL Pro Series
Mounting Options
Optional 1U high rack shelves and a variety of rack mounting bracket kits and furniture mounting kits are available for use with the IPL. The 1 inch high model (IPL Pro S1) requires different brackets than the 1U high models. Visit the product-specific page on the Extron website (www.extron.com) for a list of compatible accessories for mounting your control processor or call a support representative to find out which kit to order for your installation. Read the instructions that are included with the rack shelf or mounting kit for installation procedures and see the UL rack mounting guidelines.
UL Rack Mounting Guidelines
The following Underwriters Laboratories (UL) guidelines pertain to the safe installation of the IPL Pro Series in a rack.
- Elevated operating ambient temperature — If installed in a closed or multi-unit rack assembly, the operating ambient temperature of the rack environment may be greater than room ambient temperature. Therefore, install the IPL in an environment compatible with the maximum ambient temperature (Tma = +122 °F, +50 °C) specified by Extron.
- Reduced air flow — Install the equipment in a rack so that the amount of air flow required for safe operation of the equipment is not compromised.
- Mechanical loading — Mount the equipment in the rack so that a hazardous condition is not achieved due to uneven mechanical loading.
- Circuit overloading — Connect the equipment to the supply circuit and consider the effect that circuit overloading might have on overcurrent protection and supply wiring. Appropriate consideration of equipment nameplate ratings should be used when addressing this concern.
- Reliable earthing (grounding) — Maintain reliable grounding of rack-mounted equipment. Pay particular attention to supply connections other than direct connections to the branch circuit (such as use of power strips).
Rear Panel Features and Connections
ATTENTION:
The quantity of ports and corresponding front panel LEDs differs among IPL models, but the functions of each type of port and their LEDs are identical for any model that includes that type of port.



Figure 6. IPL Pro Series Rear Panels
A Power input connector (external power supply), page 14
B 5-pole COM ports (RS-232/RS-422*/RS-485*), page 33
© LAN connectors and LEDs (Ethernet), page 17
D MAC address, page 17
E Contact input ports, page 18
F Relay ports, page 19
G IR/serial output ports, page 20
Power Connections
Power input connector (external power supply) — Connect the IPL to the included 12 VDC, 0.5 A power supply via this port (see figure 7 on page 13), then connect the external power supply to a 100 to 240 VAC power source.
![graph TD A["Extron"] --> B["Power Input, External Power Supply"] B --> C["Front Panel"] C --> D["Ground all devices"] D --> E["Ridged Smooth"] D --> F["Smooth"] D --> G["Return +12 VDC Input"] G --> H["Ridged"] H --> I["3/16" (5 mm) Max."] I --> J["Tie Wrap"] J --> K["Rear Panel"] K --> L["POWE…](/content/2026/05/1072994/images/2a022c6268ebeb94155ee3e7e034366be1a8122527748b1af7b0da739625b4fc.jpg)
Figure 7. Connecting an External Power Supply
ATTENTION:
NOTE: The IPL Pro Series control processors accept power over Ethernet (PoE) through the LAN/PoE port (see figure 7, Ⓐ on page 13) in addition to network communication (see the cabling and details information on page 17). Both an external power supply and PoE can be connected to the control processor simultaneously. The IPL uses PoE when it is available but can switch seamlessly to the external 12 VDC power supply if the PoE connection is dropped.
ATTENTION:
Bidirectional Control and Communication Connections and Features
B 5-pole COM ports, RS-232/RS-422*/RS-485* (see figure 7, on page 13) —
Use COM ports for serial control of a display or other device and to receive status messages from the connected devices. These ports can send commands from a driver file. RS-232 is the default mode of operation.
IPL Pro Series serial protocol:
• 300 to 115200 baud (9600 baud = default)
• 8 (default) or 7 data bits
• 1 (default) or 2 stop bits
• No parity (default), even, or odd parity
- Flow control support (default = none): hardware and software (XON, XOFF)
*Supported serial formats vary depending on the model and the COM port, as shown at right.
Use the following diagram as a wiring guide to cable the IPL to other devices.

TIP: STP 20-2P cable, shown at left, is recommended for these connections. For best results, insulate the common or drain wires using heat shrink.
| Serial Options | |||
| Model | COM Port | RS-232 Only | RS-232, RS-422, or RS-485 |
| IPL Pro S1 | 1 | √ | |
| IPL Pro S3 | 1 | √ | |
| 2, 3 | √ | ||
| IPL Pro S6 | 1 | √ | |
| 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 | √ | ||
![graph LR A["Com 1<br>Tx Rx G RTS CTS"] --> B["Serial (COM) Ports"] C["Com 4<br>Tx Rx G RTS CTS"] --> B B --> D["Front Panels"] D --> E["RTS = Request to Send<br>CTS = Clear to Send<br>Tx = Transmitting Data<br>Rx = Receiving Data"] B --> F["NOTE: The 5-pole COM ports support both hardware and softwa…](/content/2026/05/1072994/images/04db93ac9947de8d070ec83d6474a1075f063e2701a531b4ecc27bb90bd4c22a.jpg)

NOTE: If you use cable that has a drain wire, tie the drain wire to ground at both ends.
| 5-pole COM Pin Configurations | |||
| Pin | RS-232 | RS-422+ | RS-485+ |
| 1 (Tx) | Tx | Tx- | Data-(pins 1 & 2 tied together) |
| 2 (Rx) | Rx | Rx- | |
| 3 (G) | Ground | Ground | Ground |
| 4 (RTS) | RTS | Tx+ | Data+(pins 4 & 5 tied together) |
| 5 (CTS) | CTS | Rx+ | |
*See the Serial Options table of supported formats for each port.
Figure 8. Wiring COM ports for Serial Control
For bidirectional serial communication, the transmit, ground, and receive pins must be wired at both the IPL Pro Series and the other device. Each projector or other device may require different wiring. For details, see the manual for that equipment or read the Extron device driver communication sheet, which is included with the drivers.
NOTE: Maximum distances between the IPL and the device being controlled are generally up to 200 feet (61 m) but may vary based on factors such as cable gauge, baud rates, environment, and output levels (from the IPL and the device being controlled).
c LAN/PoE (Ethernet) connectors and LEDs — To connect the IPL to an Ethernet network (so you can configure and control the IPL and the devices connected to it), plug a cable into the LAN RJ-45 socket (see figure 7 on page 13) and connect the other end of the cable to a network switch, hub, router, or PC connected to a LAN or the Internet. For details of communication protocols, ports, and services used, see the Pro Series Control Product Network Ports and Licenses Guide at www.extron.com.
The IPL Pro Series control processors accept power over Ethernet (PoE) through the LAN port (see the Power over Ethernet (PoE) Attention statement on page 15). Both an external power supply and PoE can be connected to the control processor simultaneously. The IPL uses PoE when it is available but can switch seamlessly to the external power supply if the PoE connection is dropped.
Cabling:
- For 10Base-T (10 Mbps) networks, use a CAT 3 or better cable.
- For 100Base-T (max. 155 Mbps) or 1000Base-T networks, use a CAT 5 or better cable.
You must configure this port before using it. Configure the settings via Global Configurator. See Software-Based Configuration and Control starting on page 24 of this guide for basic information on configuration.
Activity LED (connector and front panel) — This yellow LED blinks to indicate network activity.
Link LED (connector and front panel) — This green LED lights to indicate a good network connection.
1000 LED (front panel) — This green LED lights when the unit is connected to a gigabit network connection.
![graph TD PC --> TCPIP["TCP/IP Network"] TCPIP --> Connection["Touchlink Pro Touchpanel"] Connection --> ExtronDevices["Extron Devices (Switchers, Scalers)"] TCPIP --> Ethernet["Ethernet"] Ethernet --> InsertTwistedPairWires["Insert Twisted Pair Wires"] InsertTwistedPairWires --> RJ45["RIJ-45 Connect…](/content/2026/05/1072994/images/1845e93e18b50d50b589902ed9c87d0f5a6d0e185a9ecf25b2846da9a2b1bbed.jpg)
NOTES:
- The factory configured passwords for this device have been set to the device serial number.
Passwords are case sensitive. Performing a Reset to Factory Defaults reset (see Resetting the Unit on page 21) sets the passwords to extron. - DHCP is off by default.
![graph LR A["Activity LED"] --> B["Rear Panel"] C["Link LED"] --> B D["Pins: 87654321"] --> B B --> E["LAN / PoE"] E --> F["LAN/PoE (Ethernet)"] F --> G["Default protocol: IPL IP address: 192.168.254.250 Gateway IP address: 0.0.0.0 Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0 DNS address: 127.0.0.1 DHCP: off Link spee…](/content/2026/05/1072994/images/90c6b639819bc2155dcf12d085a6e8447fe2dfcf3e1213f39c3caedf095a091e.jpg)
Figure 9. LAN Connector and LEDs
MAC address — This is the unique user hardware ID number (Media Access Control [MAC] address) of the unit (for example, 00-05-A6-05-1C-A0). You may need this address during configuration.

Unidirectional Control and Communication Connections
E Input (contact closure input) ports (see figure 7 on page 13) — To allow the IPL to monitor devices to trigger events, connect a switch, sensor, or similar item to one of these ports. Wire the ports as shown below.

Figure 10. Wiring the Contact Input Ports
A 1k ohm pull-up resistor in a TTL (5 VDC) circuit senses external switch or contact closure. After these ports have been configured, when the circuit between a signal pin and a ground pin is closed, each port can trigger events (such as toggling relays, issuing commands, or sending an e-mail).
- When an external switch closes (shorts to ground, logic low), the port is on and the front panel LED is on.
- When the external switch opens (logic high), the port is off. The front panel LED is off.
• Example application: connecting a two-position switch

Figure 11. Contact Input Application: Two-position Switch With Pull-up
Two-position switch is open: logic high, front panel LED is off.
Two-position switch is closed: logic low, front panel LED is lit.
F Relay ports — Relay ports (see figure 7 on page 13) provide control for power, screen or projector lifts, window coverings, and similar items, when trigger events occur.
![graph LR A["Relays"] --> B["Relays"] B --> C["Front Panel"] C --> D["Relay LEDs"] D --> E["All relays are normally open."] E --> F["To Room Control Equipment"] G["Connect devices for relay control.<br>Do not exceed a total of 24 V at 1 A for each port."] --> B H["Light when the corresponding relays…](/content/2026/05/1072994/images/1a0eb2a2b41b1fc2f2b22dfed96228afa2b820f2045e27bc78b5d76f9e8ea7e9.jpg)
Figure 12. Cabling Relay Ports
These relay contacts may be used to control any equipment as long as the contact specifications of a total of 24 V at 1 A are not exceeded for each port. These relays are normally open by default.
When activated, the open contacts close. They can be set up to operate in one of two ways:
• Latching (brief or indefinite period contact) (press to close, press to open), or
• Pulsed (timed cycle) (press to close, timeout to open, with automatic repeat).
In pulse mode the default timeout period (hold time) is 1/2 second (500 ms). Use Global Configurator to change the length of the timeout period.
NOTE: The pulse function is absolute: it always sets the relay state to closed, times out (briefly), then opens the contact. It overrides the previously selected setting (on state, off state, or toggle).
G IR/serial output ports (see figure 7 on page 13) — An IPL Pro Series controller with these ports can use infrared signals or unidirectional RS-232 serial signals to control various devices (up to four per port for IR) via these ports. Set output signal type (IR or serial) during configuration. The figure below shows wiring examples.
![graph TD A["Rear Panel"] --> B["IR/Serial Ports"] B --> C["Front Panel"] B --> D["IR/Serial Ports"] D --> E["IR/S LEDs"] E --> F["Two Single IR Emitters"] F --> G["Ground"] F --> H["Unidirectional IR"] G --> I["Output"] H --> J["Ground"] style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333 style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333 st…](/content/2026/05/1072994/images/7f45ded6713e770d5354eb027e7533ba91c498d10113507570dcaca454126075.jpg)
Figure 13. Wiring the IR/Serial Ports
Serial control — Connect one of these ports to the serial control receive (Rx) and ground pins of the device to be controlled. These ports have the same serial protocol options (see page 16) as the COM ports.
IR control — Connect one of these ports directly to the wired IR port of another device. Alternatively, insert the wires from up to four IR Emitters into an IR port and place the heads of the emitters over or next to the IR signal pickup windows of the devices. For wiring, see the following diagrams or the IR Emitter Installation Guide (available on www.extron.com).
NOTE: Each emitter must be within 100 feet (30.4 meters) of the IPL for best IR control results.
Installing One Single Emitter

One Single IR Emitter
Installing One Dual Emitter

Dual IR Emitter
Installing Two Single Emitters
When installing only single emitters, tie them in series as shown below.

Two Single IR Emitters
Resetting the Unit
There are four reset modes that are available by pressing the
Reset button on the front panel. The Reset button is recessed, so use a pointed stylus, ballpoint pen, Extron Tweeker, or small screwdriver to access it. See the reset modes table below and on the next page for a summary of the modes.
ATTENTION:
NOTE: If you hold down the Reset button continuously, the LED blinks every 3 seconds, and the unit enters a different mode, from the Reset all IP Settings mode through the Reset to Factory Defaults mode. For Reset to Factory Defaults mode the LED blinks three times, the third blink indicating the last mode. The modes are separate functions, not a continuation from one mode to the next.
| IPL Pro Series Control Processor Reset Mode Summary | |||
| Mode | Use This Mode to... | Activation Result | |
| Use Factory Firmware | Temporarily boot up the unit with factory-installed firmware for a single power cycle in the event that a firmware update has failed or if incompatibility issues arise with user-loaded firmware | To start the Use Factory Firmware reset mode and replace firmware:1. On the control processor, hold down the recessedResetbutton while applying power to the unit. Keep holding the button down until thePower LED blinks twice, then release the button. The LED blinks slowly during bootup. The control processor enters factory firmware mode.2. Upload new firmware to the unit as desired (seeUpdatingthe Firmwareon page 35 for details).NOTE:Do notcontinue to operate the IPL Pro controlprocessor using the factory firmware version. If you want to use the factory default firmware version, you must upload that version again. See theGlobal Configurator Help FileorToolbelt Help Filefor firmware upload instructions. | The control processor reverts to thefactory default firmware. Event scripting does not start if the unit is powered on in this mode. All user files and settings such as drivers, adjustments, and IP settings are maintained.NOTE:To return the unit to the firmware version that was running prior to the reset, cycle power to the unit. |
| Project Recovery | Recover project configuration and program files if passwords have been lost | For devices with firmware version 1.04 and lower | |
| To start the Project Recovery reset mode and recover a project:1. On the PC, open Global Configurator.2. Click theToolsmenu and selectProject Recovery. The Recovery Mode dialog box opens.3. Enter the IP address or host name of the target device for which you want to perform project recovery.4. ClickRecover. The software allows indefinite time to establish a connection (until a connection is made or the user clicksCancel).5. On the control processor, hold down the recessedResetbutton while applying power to the unit. Hold the button down until the Power LED blinks twice, then release the button. The control processor enters project recovery mode for 20 seconds, during which time thePower LED blinks quickly. GC automatically connects to the control processor, then opens and retrieves the project from the unit.6. Cycle power to the control processor to exit project recovery mode.7. Perform theReset to Factory Defaultsreset on the control processor.8. Open Toolbelt, start device discovery, select the desired control processor from the list and clickManage.9. Click theNetwork Settingstab and set the IP address of the control processor.10. Click theUser Managementtab and change the passwords of the control processor.11. Close Toolbelt.12. In GC, add the new passwords to the recovered project.13. Save the project.14. Upload the project from GC to the control processor. | Project Recovery mode stops regular operation and allows a connection to be made to the unit via GC software without requiring password entry so that project files can be retrieved and saved.During product recovery mode, events are stopped, and so is communication with AV devices.While the control processor is in this mode, use the GC software to recover project files.If the software does not initiate project recovery within 30 seconds after the control processor enters this mode, the control processor exits recovery mode.Upon exiting project recovery mode:The unit returns to its pre-recovery mode state and settings.The Power LED returns to being steadily lit. | ||
| For devices with firmware version 1.05 and higher | |||
| To start the Project Recovery reset mode and recover a project:1. On the PC, open Global Configurator.2. Click theToolsmenu and selectProject Recovery. The Recovery Mode dialog box opens.3. Enter the IP address or host name of the target device for which you want to perform project recovery.4. ClickRecover. The software allows indefinite time to establish a connection (until a connection is made or the user clicksCancel).5. Onthe control processor, press theResetbutton three times within one second. The control processor enters project recovery mode for 30 seconds, during which time thePower LED blinks quickly.GC automatically connects to the control processor, then opens and retrieves the project from the unit.6. Perform theReset to Factory Defaultsreset on the control processor.7. Open Toolbelt, start device discovery, select the desired control processor from the list and clickManage.8. Click theNetwork Settingstab and set the IP address of the control processor.9. Click theUser Managementtab and change the passwords of the control processor.10. Close Toolbelt.11. In GC, add the new passwords to the recovered project.12. Save the project.13. Upload the project from GC to the control processor. | Project Recovery mode stops regular operation and allows a connection to be made to the unit via GC software without requiring password entry so that project files can be retrieved and saved.During project recovery mode, events are stopped, and so is communication with AV devices.While the control processor is in this mode, use the GC software to recover project files.If the software does not initiate project recovery within 30 seconds after the control processor enters this mode, the control processor exits recovery mode.Upon exiting project recovery mode:The unit returns to its pre-recoverymode state and settings.The Power LED returns to being steadily lit. | ||
| Run/Stop Program | Toggle stop/start program | To stop or start a program:1. Hold down theResetbutton for about 3 seconds, until the Power LED blinks once.2. Release and press theResetbutton momentarily (for <1 second) within 1 second*.* Nothing happens if the momentary press does not occur within 1 second. | The LED blinks 2 times if the program is starting.The LED blinks 3 times if the program is stopping. |
| NOTE: This reset mode is supported on firmware version 2.00.0002-b004 and higher. | |||
| Toggle DHCP Client | Enable or disable the DHCP client | To enable or disable the DHCP client:1. Press theResetbutton five times (consecutively).2. Release the button. Do not press the button within 3 seconds following the fifth press. | The Reset LED blinks 6 times if the DHCP client is enabled.The Reset LED blinks 3 times if the DHCP client is disabled. |
| NOTES:DHCP toggle mode is supported on firmware version 3.0 or higher.By default DHCP is off and the unit uses a static IP address.When you disable DHCP, the unit reverts to using the previously-set static IP address. | |||
| Reset All IP Settings | Reset IP settings and port maps to factory defaults without affecting user-loaded files | To reset all IP settings:1. Press and hold theResetbutton for about 6 seconds until the Power LED blinks twice (once at 3 seconds, again at 6 seconds).2. Release and press theResetbutton momentarily (for <1 second) within 1 second*.* Nothing happens if the momentary press does not occur within 1 second. | Reset All IP Settings mode:Sets the IP address back to factory default (192.168.254.250)Sets the subnet back to factory default (255.255.255.0)Sets the default gateway address to the factory default (0.0.0.0)Sets domain and host names to factory defaultSets port mapping back to factory defaultTurns DHCP offTums events (user-created schedules, macros) offStops any running programDisables 802.1X authentication |
| Reset to Factory Defaults | Start over with configuration and uploading | To reset the unit to all factory default settings:1. Hold down theResetbutton for about 9 seconds until the Power LED blinks three times (once at 3 seconds, again at 6 seconds, again at 9 seconds).2. Release and press theResetbutton momentarily (for <1 second) within 1 second*.* Nothing happens if the momentary press does not occur within 1 second. | Reset to Factory Defaults mode performs a complete reset to factory defaults (except the firmware).Does everything Reset All IP Settings mode doesRemoves (clears) all user-loaded files (except LinkLicense files) and configurations from the control processor:Clears driver-port associations (IR, serial, Ethernet) and port configurationsRemoves button/touchpanel configurationsRemoves user-loaded digital certificatesRemoves schedules, settings, macrosClears messages in the event logs table |
NOTES:
- After performing a Reset All IP Settings or Reset to Factory Defaults reset, set the IP address again (by using Toolbelt) for use on your network.
- The factory configured passwords for this device have been set to the device serial number. Passwords are case sensitive. Performing a Reset to Factory Defaults reset sets the passwords to extron.
Software-Based Configuration and Control
This section of the guide is divided into the following topics:
- Configuration and Control: an Overview
- Basic Setup Steps: a Guide to this Section and Other Resources
- Downloading the Software and Getting Started
- Troubleshooting
Configuration and Control: an Overview
An IPL must be configured before use in order to recognize and accept commands and pass them on to the controlled devices. It can be configured and controlled via a host computer connected to the same network as the control processor. See LAN/PoE (IP) connectors and LEDs starting on page 17 for details about LAN port and cabling to connect the control processor to the network.
- Configure the control processor by using the Global Configurator software (GC Professional or GC Plus) (see the Extron website for full system hardware and software requirements for GC), or program it using Global Scripter.
- The default web pages embedded within the control processor provide a means to view general hardware information, network settings, and, if configured, project information. You cannot configure the control processor via the embedded web pages.
Basic Setup Steps: a Guide to this Section and Other Resources
NOTE: GC projects can be created offline and uploaded to the hardware at a later date.
Follow the steps in Setup Checklist: How to Proceed With Installation starting on page 7. The overall process for setting up a control processor using GC is as follows:
![graph TD A["Configure the IP settings of the control processor, NBP network button panels, and TouchLink Pro touchpanels."] --> B["If desired or required, install a new security certificate (via Toolbelt)."] B --> C["Create a new GC Professional or GC Plus project and add the control processor to it…](/content/2026/05/1072994/images/4623ba4997e099c0f8504073bae7cc5006ddb2722ee4e42c394755cf19f54708.jpg)
Figure 14. Overall Configuration Steps
Downloading the Software and Getting Started
GC software updates and a large variety of device drivers can be downloaded from the Download page on the Extron website (http://www.extron.com/download/index.aspx). When you locate the desired software or driver package, follow the on-screen directions to download and install it.
NOTE: New RS-232 and Ethernet drivers are required. You must use serial and Ethernet drivers developed specifically for the IP Link Pro platform. With the exception of IR device drivers, drivers used for the previous generation IP Link (non-Pro) control processors are not compatible.
Locating Software, Firmware, and Driver Files on the Extron Website
There are three main ways to find software, firmware, and device drivers within www.extron.com:
• Via links from the web page for the specific product
- Via the Download Center page (click the Download tab at the top of any page within the Extron website).
• Via links from search results
NOTE: For some software you have the option to click the Download button to begin downloading the software file. For other software there is a link for contacting an Extron support representative who can provide you access to the latest version. To obtain Extron control product software, you must have an Extron Insider account and contact an Extron support representative. Extron provides training to our customers on how to use the software. For Global Configurator Professional, you must first attend Extron training, pass a proficiency test, and achieve Extron Control Professional Certification before being able to access all the features of that program.
Via links from the web page for the specific product
-
Navigate to the web page for the specific product model by performing one of the following:
-
Enter the model name into the search field in the upper right of any Extron web page and click the magnifying glass icon. Or...
-
Select the model name from the Product Shortcuts drop-down list in the upper left of the Extron home page or Products page.
-
Click the Downloads tab in the middle of the product page. A list of available software, firmware, and documents for that model appears on screen.
- Click on the name of the desired software or firmware to start downloading the file, or click on the link for device drivers to navigate to a page from which you can select either a driver package or specific drivers for individual devices.
Via the Download Center page
- Click the Download tab at the top of any page within the Extron website to access the Download page.
-
Click the link for the desired software product category (such as Global Configurator Professional, firmware, or control system device drivers) in the center of the screen. A page opens that allows you to make more specific selections from within that category.
-
For software, click the link for the specific software that you need. A software product page opens that provides a description of the software package, a list of system requirements, a list of features, and access to the release notes, in addition to a download link.
For drivers:
a. Click the Control System Drivers button.
b. Select the name of the control processor from the drop-down list.
c. Click the link directly below the search fields to download the current "Pro Series driver package" of all available drivers supported by the control processor. Alternatively, search for, locate, and select the device or devices for which you need a driver file.
d. To download a single driver rather than the package, click the appropriate link in the row for the product you want to control to download the driver or to download the "communication sheet." The communication sheet provides details that may be helpful for working with the product and its control driver.
- For some software you can click the Download or Download Now button to begin downloading the software file. For other software there is a link for contacting an Extron support representative who can provide you access to the latest version.
For drivers, navigate through the alphabetically arranged list to select and download a driver for a specific device.
Via links from search results
- Type the specific name of the software package (such as Global Configurator or GUI Designer) into the Search field in the upper right of the Extron web page and click the magnifying glass icon. A search results page appears.
- Click on the name of the software package. A software product page opens that provides a description of the software package, a list of system requirements, a list of features, and access to the release notes, in addition to a download link.
- For some software you can click the Download or Download Now button to begin downloading the software file. For other software there may be a link for contacting an Extron support representative who can provide you access to the latest version.
Obtaining Control Drivers
Extron provides an extensive selection of device drivers available on the Extron website. Ethernet, serial, and infrared (IR) device drivers (for controlling projectors, displays, DVD players, document cameras, and so forth) are available as individual device driver files. Prior to configuration, download driver files for products to be used in the installation.
NOTE: For serial or Ethernet devices, IPL Pro Series control processors require IP Link Pro drivers. They do not support serial or Ethernet drivers that were created for IP Link (non-Pro) products. However, existing Extron IR driver files are supported.
If the system requires a driver that is not already available, you have additional options:
- Request a new serial (RS-232) or Ethernet driver from Extron.
- Create your own custom IR driver using Extron IR Learner Pro software. Following the directions in the IR Learner Pro Help File, use the remote control of an AV device and the IR receiver port on the front panel of an IPL Pro IRS8 to capture commands and create a device-specific driver.
Things to Do After Installing GC and Before Starting a Project
- Read the Global Configurator Help File, included with the software, for details and step-by-step procedures on how to start a GC Professional or GC Plus project and perform basic setup tasks for a control processor. The help file provides a wealth of information on settings and how to use the software. It includes examples of how to use the features of GC and step by step instructions for typical configuration tasks.
- Obtain network addresses and related information from your network administrator.
- Set up the IP address for the control processor. See Network Communication Setup on page 10 for an overview of how to set up the network properties of the unit. For details, see the GC help file or Toolbelt help file. The help files contain instructions on how to set the IP address, gateway IP address, subnet mask, mail server IP address, domain name, web port, SMTP username, and SMTP password so that the IPL is able to communicate with the network.
Using GC: Helpful Tips
Resources and notes
- The IPL Pro Series Setup Guide is shipped with the unit. It includes a quick reference to the front and rear panel features, and covers basic hardware installation.
- See Front Panel Features on page 11 and Rear Panel Features and Connections on page 13 in the "Hardware Features and Installation" section of this guide for features and settings for the ports you are configuring.
- If you plan to configure the IPL at the installation site, Extron recommends downloading drivers for all the devices in the installation before you go out to the site.
- The Global Configurator project file (*.gcpro or *.gcplus) contains configuration settings and it can be saved to a directory or folder for backup or for installation on another IPL Pro control processor. Saving a configuration is recommended before you perform a firmware upgrade.
- IP address, subnet mask, and gateway address are required during network setup of the control processor.
-
The unit name is any name (for example, Room680-IPLProS6 or ConfRmSystem) that you want to use to label a specific IPL unit. The default is a combination of the product name and part of the hardware (MAC) address. This can be changed to your choice of alphanumeric characters and hyphens (-). The following rules apply:
-
Spaces are not permitted within the name of a unit or at the start or the end of a name.
- Underscores ( _ ) are not permitted.
- Valid characters are A-Z, a-z, 0-9, and - (hyphen).
- The unit does not distinguish between upper and lower case letters.
- The name cannot start with a number or a hyphen, and it cannot end with a hyphen.
• Maximum name length is 63 characters.
Troubleshooting
Turn on the input devices (DVD players, Blu-ray players, PCs, and other sources), output devices (display screens, projectors), the control processor, and the PC and touchpanel. Touch a configured button on the touchpanel.
If an input or output AV device cannot be remotely controlled (does not respond as expected), check the following:
• Power Connections
• Data Connections
• Device Control Connections and Configuration
Power Connections
- Ensure that all devices are plugged in.
- Make sure that each device is receiving power. The IPL front panel power LED lights if the IPL is receiving power.
Data Connections
- Check the cabling connections and make adjustments as needed. The Link LEDs on the IPL and on the touchpanel, network button panel, or PC should be lit green steadily if a network connection is detected. If these LEDs are not lit, either the cable is faulty or not plugged in, or the wrong type of cable is being used (see LAN/PoE (IP) connectors and LEDs on page 17).
- Try to "ping" the unit by entering ping 192.168.254.250 at the command prompt, or use the IP or web address provided to you by your system administrator.
If you get no response:
- Make sure your unit is using the appropriate subnet mask (check with your system administrator).
-
Make sure your PC and network do not have a software firewall program that might block the IP address of the IPL unit.
-
If contact is established with the unit, but the IPL web pages cannot be accessed by your web browser, verify (via an Internet network options or preferences menu) that your web browser is configured for direct network connection and is not set up to use a proxy server.
Device Control Connections and Configuration
- Verify that ports are wired correctly and that ground (earthing) wires are connected to the proper pins on the control processor and, if applicable, on the controlled device.
- Ensure that each IR emitter head is placed adjacent to or directly over the IR pickup window on the controlled device.
- Verify that the appropriate drivers were used while creating the configuration file and that the correct commands and signal types (IR, RS-232, Ethernet) are associated with the appropriate ports on the control processor and on the other devices.
- Verify that input current at any contact input port does not exceed 250 mA.
If you are still experiencing problems, call the Extron S3 Sales & Technical Support Hotline or the Extron S3 Control Systems Support Hotline (1.800.633.9877).
Reference Information
This section of the guide includes the following reference items:
• Network Port Requirements and Licensed Third-Party Software
- File Types: a Key to Extron-specific File Names
- Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Certificates
• IEEE 802.1X Certificates
• SNMP
To read product specifications, visit the IPL Pro Series product pages at www.extron.com.
Network Port Requirements and Licensed Third-Party Software
Network administrators may find it useful to know which ports, protocols, and services are used by the IP Link Pro control processors, TouchLink Pro Touchpanels, Global Configurator Plus and Professional software, Toolbelt, and Extron Control (for IP Link Pro control systems). A list of protocols used for inbound and outbound communication for each type of device or software is available in the Pro Series Control Product Network Ports and Licenses Guide, part 68-2961-01, available at www.extron.com.
The control processors use various licensed third-party software packages during operation. To view details about third-party packages and associated licensing, click the License Information button in the internal web pages of the control processor. A License Information window opens. To view a copy of a listed package license, in the License Information window, click the link in the License column for the relevant package. This opens a copy of the package license in a separate window. A list of licenses is also available in the Pro Series Control Product Network Ports and Licenses Guide at www.extron.com.
File Types: a Key to Extron-specific File Names
A basic understanding of the types of files used by the control processor is helpful in order to decide what (if anything) to do with them.
- *.eff — This is an Extron firmware update file. See the Firmware Updates section starting on page 34 for details on firmware updates.
- *.eir — These are IR driver files containing infrared commands. There is a separate .eir file for each device the IPL controls via infrared communication. This is also the type of file created during IR learning. Via Global Configurator, these files can be imported and associated with one of the IR ports on a control processor.
- *.ell — This is a LinkLicense file. It appears in systems that use a LinkLicense for using a third-party device as a control interface instead of an Extron TouchLink Pro touchpanel.
- *.gcplus — This is a Global Configurator Plus configuration file.
- *.gcpro — This is a Global Configurator Professional configuration file.
- *.gdl — This is a GUI Designer layout created for TouchLink Pro a touchpanel or third-party touch interface.
- *.glta — This is a GUI layout template.
- *.gs — This is a Global Scripter project file.
Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) Certificates
Extron control processors ship with factory-installed SSL certificates created by Extron. If you want or are required to use a different SSL certificate at your installation site, then you can use system utilities in the Toolbelt software to change the SSL certificate at any time. The Toolbelt Help File provides instructions on how to apply an SSL certificate to a control processor.
NOTES:
- You must run Toolbelt as an administrator.
- Some certificates require a passphrase that is created when the certificate is created. If a passphrase is required, you must enter that passphrase before uploading and applying the certificate.
IP Link Pro control processors support standard OpenSSL certificate encodings such as .pem (Privacy-enhanced Electronic Mail) and .der (Distinguished Encoding Rules) file types. PEM file types are ASCII encoded and are the required format for uploading to the control processor. DER file types are binary encoded and can typically have several file extension variations, such as .crt and .cer. There are many standard tools that can convert from DER to PEM file encodings if needed.
NOTE: A DER format file must be converted to PEM encoding before uploading it to the control processor.
To properly create the certificate for uploading to Extron control processors, ensure that the certificate file meets the following requirements:
• contains X.509 certificate information
• contains public and private keys
- uses PEM encoding
NOTE: ITU-T standard X.509 covers aspects of public key encryption, digital cryptography, certificates, and validation.
Contact your IT administrator for more information on what tools and policies are required to obtain or create the SSL certificate and, if necessary, the corresponding passphrase.
IEEE 802.1X Certificates
IEEE 802.1X is a standard that enables port-based network access control via an authentication server. The protocol requires that all devices must be authenticated before gaining privileges to access the secure part of the network.
The Extron implementation of 802.1X supports PEAP - MSCHAPV2 and EAP - TLS methods of authentication. This section of the guide details the requirements for any certificate file (machine or CA) and the private key file (for the machine certificate) to be used in the system.
Extron provides resources for learning about 802.1X implementation:
- The Extron 802.1X Technology Reference Guide, available from www.extron.com, is the primary resource for background information, system planning, topology, and how to set up these systems.
- The Toolbelt Help file provides detailed step-by-step information on using the software to set up 802.1X for IP Link Pro control systems and on troubleshooting.
- The 802.1X Primer white paper, also available from www.extron.com, provides a general overview of the protocol and its use within a control system.
NOTES:
- You must run Toolbelt as an administrator.
- Machine certificates require a private key file, which can be encrypted.
Certificate File Requirements
PEM (Privacy-enhanced Electronic Mail) file types are ASCII encoded, and they are the required format for 802.1X authentication for the control processors. DER (Distinguished Encoding Rules) file types are binary encoded and can typically have several file extension variations, such as .crt and .cer.
NOTE: DER encoded files (files with .der, .crt, or .cer extensions that are encoded in DER binary format) must be converted to a PEM encoded file type (.pem) before being used for authentication.
DER encoded certificates must be converted to PEM encoding using a third-party tool. Contact your IT administrator for more information on required tools.
To create the 802.1X security certificate for uploading to Extron control processors, ensure that the certificate file meets the following requirements:
- It contains X.509 certificate information.
- It contains a private key (for machine certificates only).
- It is PEM encoded.
- It has a file extension that is .crt or .pem.
- Its file name consists of the following types of valid characters:
• Alphanumerical (A-Z, a-z, 0-9) characters - Some special characters (colon [:], underscore [_], and hyphen [-])
NOTE: Spaces are not permitted anywhere in the name.
Private Key File Requirements
Private key files are required only when employing machine certificates. Follow these requirements for creating a private key:
- Its file name consists of the following types of valid characters:
• Alphanumerical (A-Z, a-z, 0-9) characters
- Some special characters (colon [:], underscore [_], and hyphen [-])
- It has a file extension that is .key or .pem.
- It can have optional encryption (via password or passphrase).
SNMP
Extron control products support Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP). SNMP facilitates the exchange of basic network management information between network devices. It helps in monitoring of operations and factors such as packet usage, memory usage, remote password resets, and collection of error information. An information technology administrator can use common IT tools to monitor those factors, as well as look up device location and the name of the contact person for the device.
The SNMP controls within Toolbelt provide a way to enable or disable SNMP. It also allows you to specify related information such as the name of a contact person, the physical location of the unit, and a community name. The text that is specified in these fields is seen by the network community when the unit is queried.
Extron control products support the following security levels:
• Management Information Base 2 (MIB-II)
- SNMPv2a.
Firmware Updates
If the need arises, you can replace the IPL firmware. This section covers the following firmware-related topics:
• Determining the Firmware Version
- Updating the Firmware
Determining the Firmware Version
There are several ways to check which firmware version the control processor is using:
• View the device information in Toolbelt.
• View the general status information section of the IPL embedded web pages.
- View the GlobalViewer (GV) web pages (if the control processor has already been configured and the GV web pages have been generated, built, and uploaded to the control processor).
Before using any of those methods, connect the control processor and the PC to the same network. For details see the Hardware Features and Installation section starting on page 7, the Software-Based Configuration and Control section starting on page 24, and the IPL Pro Series Setup Guide.
Using Global Configurator and Toolbelt
- Start Global Configurator in either GC Professional or GC Plus mode and open the Toolbelt link, or open the Toolbelt software directly.
- Either add the desired control processor manually or start device discovery and select the desired processor from the list of discovered devices.
- Click Manage in the row for the desired control processor and view the device information that appears in that section.
Using a Browser
The control processor comes with a set of factory default embedded web pages. Also, after configuration, the GlobalViewer (GV) application could be installed in the unit, providing a different set of web pages. See the Global Configurator Help file for information on how to use that software and the resulting web pages. Either type of web page (factory default or GV) can be used to find the firmware version and part number of the unit.
- Start a browser program.
- Enter the IP address of the control processor into the address field of the browser and log on to the internal web page or to the optional GlobalViewer web page stored in the control processor (see the Global Configurator Help File for details).
- Look for the version within one of the information panes.
Updating the Firmware
Firmware upgrade tools require the PC and the control processor to both be connected to an Ethernet network. The instructions for each method of updating the IPL firmware assume you have installed the appropriate software on your PC first.
NOTES:
- You should save the existing configuration to a file (see the Global Configurator Help file for instructions) before replacing the firmware. If the file is saved, the configuration can be restored to the IPL later using GC.
- Check the Extron website for firmware-related documents, instructions, patch files, and new firmware files before loading new firmware into the control processor. We recommend that you read the firmware release notes (available from www.extron.com) before beginning the firmware update.
Locating and Downloading the Firmware
- Visit the Extron website to find the latest firmware file for the control processor. The easiest way to locate files is through the Downloads tab on the web page for the specific model.
- Download the executable installer file (*.exe) from the website and run the installer program. The program automatically stores the firmware file on the PC in C:\Program Files\Extron\Firmware within a folder specific to that version.
- Write down the firmware filename and location for later use. The filename ends in .eff such as 49-247-50-x.xx.xxxx-yyyy.eff where x.xx.xxxx is the version number.
NOTE: The firmware update file must have a filename extension of .eff. If the file does not have that extension, it does not work properly.
Installing Firmware
Firmware can be replaced by using one of the following:
• Global Configurator (using the link to Toolbelt)
- Toolbelt
These methods allow you to browse to find and select the appropriate .eff file on your PC and then click an Upload button to initiate the firmware upload to the control processor.
NOTE: Toolbelt allows you to update multiple devices with the same firmware version simultaneously.
Allow at least a couple minutes for the firmware to finish uploading. At the end of the upload process, the unit partially reboots and loses its connection to the PC. Therefore, to continue using Toolbelt you need to reconnect to the unit after the firmware update.
Extron Warranty
Extron warrants this product against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of three years from the date of purchase. In the event of malfunction during the warranty period attributable directly to faulty workmanship and/or materials, Extron will, at its option, repair or replace said products or components, to whatever extent it shall deem necessary to restore said product to proper operating condition, provided that it is returned within the warranty period, with proof of purchase and description of malfunction to:
USA, Canada, South America, and Central America:
Extron
1230 South Lewis Street
Anaheim, CA 92805
U.S.A.
Asia:
Extron Asia Pte Ltd
135 Joo Seng Road, #04-01
PM Industrial Bldg.
Singapore 368363
Singapore
Japan:
Extron, Japan
Kyodo Building, 16 Ichibancho
Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0082
Japan
Europe:
Extron Europe
Hanzeboulevard 10
3825 PH Amersfoort
The Netherlands
China:
Extron China
686 Ronghua Road
Songjiang District
Shanghai 201611
China
Middle East:
Extron Middle East
Dubai Airport Free Zone
F13, PO Box 293666
United Arab Emirates, Dubai
Africa:
Extron South Africa
3rd Floor, South Tower
160 Jan Smuts Avenue
Rosebank 2196, South Africa
This Limited Warranty does not apply if the fault has been caused by misuse, improper handling care, electrical or mechanical abuse, abnormal operating conditions, or if modifications were made to the product that were not authorized by Extron.
NOTE: If a product is defective, please call Extron and ask for an Application Engineer to receive an RA (Return Authorization) number. This will begin the repair process.
USA: 714.491.1500 or 800.633.9876 Asia: 65.6383.4400
Europe: 31.33.453.4040 or 800.3987.6673
Japan: 81.3.3511.7655
Africa: 27.11.447.6162
Middle East: 971.4.299.1800
Units must be returned insured, with shipping charges prepaid. If not insured, you assume the risk of loss or damage during shipment. Returned units must include the serial number and a description of the problem, as well as the name of the person to contact in case there are any questions.
Extron makes no further warranties either expressed or implied with respect to the product and its quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for any particular use. In no event will Extron be liable for direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from any defect in this product even if Extron has been advised of such damage.
Please note that laws vary from state to state and country to country, and that some provisions of this warranty may not apply to you.