Dual Channel Serial Relay Box

Description

So lets say you have a Digital Video distribution system installed but you need some relays for screen control. You could opt to up-sell the client to a unit with relays for an extra xxx dollars, or you could add one of our DC powered serial controlled dual relay boxes for less than $100. Designed to add two relays to most media output box, it is powered via a USB or 9-24v DC connection. A simple 1 way serial from an IR or Serial port will drive the two relays.

Lets not just pretend its for Digital Video endpoints  though. Grab a USB power supply and add more relays to your system wherever you need them!

A simple 1 way serial protocol allows messages that trigger 1 or both relays at the same time.

LEDs show the status of the Power, Relays and when the unit receives data over the serial link allowing simple diagnostics and status feedback.

The relays are rated at 30v 100mA so please don’t use them to switch 240v AC ! However most screen or lifter controllers use a volt free contact closure as a trigger.

Connectors

All mating connectors are supplied with unit.

Serial Input:

2 pin 3.81mm Phoenix connector

Relay Outputs:

4 pin 3.81mm Phoenix connector

Power (USB Version)

Powered via USB Type B Socket

Power (DC Input Version)

2 pin 3.81mm Phoenix connector

Indicators

Power/Data: Blue LED (power) / Red LED (data)
Relay 1 Status: Green LED
Relay 2 Status: Green LED

Relay rating

Max voltage: 250V AC, 220V DC
Max current: 0.5A AC, 1A DC
We do not recommend switching voltages higher than 30v

Dimensions.

Width: 92mm (3.7”)
Length (excluding connectors): 148mm (5.8”)
Height: 38mm (1.5”)

Weight

515g (1.14 lbs)

Sample Crestron Module
B3-RLY2 Control v1

Frequently Asked Questions

> Why a big USB connector ?
> What if I need to control a screen and a projector lifter ?
> Serial port or IR input ?
> Is it safe to connect to any USB port ?
> Do you publish the serial protocol ?

Why a big USB connector ?
We had an option of a standard B type USB or a surface mount Mini B type. The Mini B type would have been easier for us to design with as it has a lower profile and a reduced component size, but what we have discovered is that the smaller connector with its tiny surface mount pads is not very good at handling high levels of insertion or twisting force like you would find in a unit that was going to be fumbled with in the roof of a venue trying to plug it in in the dark.

Is it safe to connect to any USB port ?
We use the USB port only to power the device, so it is safe to connect to any standard USB port that provides 5v power. Ideally, it should be connected to a regulated 5v output that you would trust to power a USB device. Current consumption is 42mA at 5v DC so it will not cause any issues with loading down a port. All USB output ports have to be able to supply a minimum of 100mA before the device has to start negotiating for more.
There is no risk to any device the box is connected to as the USB port does not have the data lines connected.

Do you publish the serial protocol ?
Sure Do. You can either get it from the Downloads Tab above or click here – B3-RLY2 Protocol v1