Meridian Unplugged - Powered by MrTechGuy.co.uk Forums Discussion Meridian - Systems virtualMSR (vMSR) iPad App for Meridian

Global Cache also make a wifi version of this RS232 adapter too, I would also assume these will also provide connectivity to those people who haven't got a fixed network IP connection nearby.

So I should hold off getting my iPad engraved with other sources?

I'm already using my RS232 port for my UT2. I need to think how I can integrate this with this new control. At present the 568.2mm is programmed to output a string (i.e. Dune, Wii etc). that triggers the UT2. virtualMSR will sadly not handle this.

Would customizable buttons sort this out? Can't wait for virtualMSR+ though, with full learning capability!

Can anyone recommend a good RS232 hub (if such a thing exists)? Is there an IP to RS232 unit with more than one RS232 socket?

Great job.

I happened to have the right adapter knocking around, and just downloaded the release. Looks great!

The display feedback adds hugely to the value. My gear is all behind me, and this makes for a much more relaxed experience.

Bravo!

+1 Ludwig

Very impressed, well done Rick et al.

Russ

vMSR is quite happy to accept return information from the Meridian Controller which has been customised, and display this on its feedback screen.
It's just that currently you can't name up the buttons on the vMSR iPad control.

Cheers,

Rick

Cool, so it may work.

Need a ethernet to dual RS232 unit then.

Well yes they do, however this isn't officially supported by vMSR at present.

It's important that vMSR can connected quickly and reliably, and with the minimum of technical set-up.
Using a wired Global Cache IP2SL means a fast, robust connection, with no configuration at all.
The vMSR app finds the IP2SL automatically and then configures its serial port with the correct baud rate for Meridian communications.
It's literally plug and play.

The Wi-Fi version would require more user configuration, so isn't the recommended solution.

Cheers,

Rick

I use my MSR+ to control my TV. Presumably this functionality cannot be replicated by the vMSR?

Neil

Hi Neil,

No sorry, the vMSR will only control Meridian equipment.

Rick

What the heck is going on around here! First we ask for an inexpensive (in Meridian World, that is) Sooloos endpoint and, presto, there it is! Then we ask for 861 upgrades to not throw the baby out with the bathwater and, presto, 861v8 via a few board swaps. Now it's to be able to use iPad as MSR replacement! Don't know about the rest of you, but if I wasn't such a cynic, I'd begin to suspect that M are actually listening to their customers.

So, Rick, what is this little device that connects to the RS232 port - is it a wire, a small box, some kind of receiver? And do you know price yet.

Add me to the list of people who will need customizable 'buttons'. A quick 'toggle' between this app and Core Control would be nice, although volume is controllable in the latter so not a deal breaker if not possible.

Would also like an app setting to replicate the high-pitched whine from MSR+ - I've become used to it ... Not!

All jokes aside, well done Meridian!

This looks a better answer than making your own interface for the Roomie app.
Apple users be aware though that the IP2SL setup software is WINDOWS only, no OSX Mac version, just like the Sooloos config software.

Hi Simon,

The device is made by Global Cache and is a small box.
It has a network socket on it, and a 9 pin Serial socket, and a socket for its 'wall wart' power supply.

More info on the virtualMSR support site www.virtualMSR.com - Hardware Requirements.

If you have vMSR and Core Control both open on the iPad then you should be able to quickly move from one to the other using a 'four finger' swipe. As long as you have 'Multitasking Gestures' set to 'On' in the iPad 'Settings' 'General' tab.

Cheers,

Rick