Overview

This example describes the communication possibilities between Beckhoff and Riedel Communications.

Riedel Communications

Riedel Communications GmbH & Co. KG develops, manufactures and distributes intercom, fiber optic, radio and audio network systems for use in broadcasting, events, theater and industry.

With the Riedel Router Control Software (RRCS), Riedel offers a universal, XML-based interface that can be used to control Artist series intercom systems.
To use RRCS, you need to install the RRCS server. This server runs on PCs with the Windows operating system. There are two options:

• Installation of the RRCS server on Beckhoff IPCs on which the Beckhoff TwinCAT program is also running
  
• Installation of the RRCS server on any server
  

Beckhoff

Beckhoff provides a library with which Beckhoff control systems can communicate bidirectionally with Riedel Artist systems via RRCS.
This library is described below and is part of the samples. You can download the samples in the chapter Samples. To use the library, you need a TC1200 license and a license for TF6760. The library and the samples are subject to the disclaimer in chapter 2. In addition, two exemplary implementations are listed in this documentation.

Summary and benefits

• Combines Beckhoff's open PC and EtherCAT-based control technology with Riedel communication systems.
• Direct support of the RRCS protocol from Riedel in TwinCAT
• Enables communication with Riedel Artist and Bolero systems as well as the use of Riedel SmartPanels.
• Facilitates dynamic control of audio circuits and integration with theater and show announcement systems.
• System integrators can now integrate open PC and EtherCAT-based control technology components from Beckhoff into the Riedel system, and vice versa.
• Beckhoff supports the essential parts of the RRCS protocol from Riedel in TwinCAT on the basis of TwinCAT 3 IoT HTTPS/REST (TF6760).
• This enables communication with Riedel Artist and Bolero systems and the implementation of Riedel SmartPanels.
• In a theatre context, possible use cases can be the dynamic change and switching of audio circuits based on logic and priorities running in the Beckhoff control system or, in combination with theater stage management, the show control including cue-light signaling and announcements.

The control elements for the end user can be selected and combined, from the following:

• Beckhoff multi-touch Control Panels and TwinCAT HMI
• In combination with classic light switches or control wheels and other mechanical inputs
• Riedel SmartPanels or wireless Bolero beltpacks as control and monitoring interfaces

As the Beckhoff control system offers almost endless communication and control possibilities, controlling audio/video systems, stage and show applications, and even building automation with temperature control, along with blinds and general lights, is possible.