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How to use the RS232 connection on your CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2

Learn how to connect central control equipment to your CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2 via RS232 so you can manage the display remotely — including powering it on or off and adjusting volume — from a central AV control system.

Applies To:

CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2 — All sizes (43", 55", 65", 75", 86", 98")

Quick Summary The RS232 port on your CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2 allows IT managers and AV technicians to control the display remotely using a serial port cable and central control equipment. This is commonly used in schools and organisations that manage multiple displays from a single control system.

Step 1: Gather your equipment

You will need:

  • A serial port (RS232) cable
  • Central control equipment with an RS232 output (such as a Crestron, AMX, or similar AV control system)
  • Access to the back of the CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2

Step 2: Locate the RS232 port on the display

Find the RS232 port on the back of your CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2. It is labelled "RS232" and looks like a small D-shaped connector (also known as a DB9 port).

Step 3: Connect the serial port cable

Plug one end of the serial port cable into the RS232 port on the back of the CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2. Connect the other end to the RS232 output on your central control equipment.

⚠️ Do not plug in the power cord before making your connections. Always make all cable connections before powering on the display.

Step 4: Power on the display

Once all connections are made, plug in the power cord, flip the Power Switch to the "I" position, and power on the display.

Step 5: Configure your control system

Set up your central control equipment to communicate with the CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2 via the RS232 connection. Your AV integrator or IT team will need to configure the correct serial communication settings (baud rate, parity, stop bits) as specified in your control system's documentation.

💡 Tip: RS232 control is typically set up by an IT manager or AV technician during installation. If you are a teacher and need help with this, contact your school's IT team or log a ticket on the Support Portal at support.commbox.com.au.

Step 6: Test the connection

Once configured, test the connection by sending a command from your control system — for example, a power on or volume adjustment command. The CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2 should respond accordingly.

💡 Tip: Common functions you can control via RS232 include powering the display on and off, adjusting volume, and switching input sources. Check your control system documentation for the full list of supported commands.

Troubleshooting / What to Do If It Doesn't Work

  • No response from the display — confirm the RS232 cable is firmly connected at both ends and that the correct port is selected on your control system.
  • Commands not being recognised — check that the serial communication settings (baud rate, data bits, parity, stop bits) on your control system match the specifications for the CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2.
  • Display powers on but does not respond to other commands — ensure the control system is fully configured and that the correct command codes are being used for this display model.

If you need further assistance, log a ticket on the Support Portal at support.commbox.com.au. For complex AV integrations, your CommBox reseller or AV integrator will also be able to help.

Video Tutorial (if available) Visit www.commbox.com.au/training-hub for installation and connectivity guides for the CommBox Intelligent Display Gen 2.