RossTalk

v29
 Document Information
• Ross Part Number: 4802DR-403-29
• Release Date: June, 2023. Printed in Canada
The information contained in this document is
subject to change without notice or obligation.

Copyright
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ii • Document Information — RossTalk (v29)

Contents

Carbonite/Graphite Commands....................4
Sending RossTalk Commands to Carbonite.........................4
To Send RossTalk Commands to
Carbonite...........................................................4
Carbonite Supported RossTalk Commands..........................4

XPression Commands....................................10
Sending RossTalk Commands to XPression.......................10
To Send RossTalk Commands to
XPression.........................................................10
XPression Supported RossTalk Commands........................10

™
Acuity /Vision Commands............................13
™
Sending RossTalk Commands to Acuity /Vision................13
To Send RossTalk Commands to
™
Acuity /Vision..................................................13
™
Acuity /Vision Supported RossTalk Commands................13

®
openGear Commands..................................19
®
Sending RossTalk Commands to openGear .....................19
To Send RossTalk Commands to an
®
openGear Card..............................................19
®
openGear Supported RossTalk Commands......................19

™
Ultrix Commands.........................................21
™
Sending RossTalk Commands to Ultrix .............................21
To Send RossTalk Commands to
™
Ultrix ...............................................................21
™
Ultrix Supported RossTalk Commands..............................21

®
Ross Video Server (Mira, Tria, Kiva)
Commands.................................................23
®
Sending RossTalk Commands to a Ross Video
Server...............................................................................23
®
To Send RossTalk Commands to a Ross
Video Server....................................................23
®
Ross Video Servers Supported RossTalk
Commands......................................................................23

RossTalk (v29) — Contents • iii

 Carbonite/Graphite Commands
The switcher can be controlled from a remote editor or computer via RossTalk commands. These
commands can be sent to the switcher over an ethernet connection.

Sending RossTalk Commands to Carbonite

Carbonite accepts RossTalk commands over ethernet on port 7788. This allows you to perform various
functions such as triggering a GPI, or sending commands to the switcher, such as transitioning a key.
Tip: Carbonite automatically accepts RossTalk commands on port 7788.

To Send RossTalk Commands to Carbonite

Note: Each command should be terminated by a carriage return and a line feed (CR/LF).

Commands can be sent directly through a telnet connection or any other application that can send ASCII
commands.
1. Create a network connection to the switcher on port 7788. The default IP address of the switcher is
192.168.0.123.
Tip: If you are using multiple RossTalk connections, it is recommended that you increment the port number for each device.

2. At the prompt, enter the commands you want to send.

Carbonite Supported RossTalk Commands

The switcher supports a number of RossTalk commands. The exact commands and how the switcher
reacts to the commands is outlined in the following table.
Important: Carbonite, Carbonite eXtreme, Carbonite Black, Carbonite Solo, Mosaic, and UltraChromeHR number MEs as ME 1,
ME 2, and ME 3 with the highest number ME being the program ME. Carbonite Ultra numbers MEs as ME 2, ME 1, ME P/P with
ME P/P being the program ME. For example, KEYAUTO ME:3:4 triggers an auto transition of key 4 on ME 3 on Carbonite
Black, but KEYAUTO ME:P/P:4 performs the same action on Ultra.

Note: All commands are case sensitive.

In the following commands, the ME-source is replaced with the bus source.
• ME — use ME
• MiniME™ — use MME
• MultiScreen — use MSC
• Canvas — use MSC
• Tile — use MME
Table 1: RossTalk Commands

Command Description
CC bcc Executes custom control (cc) on bank (b). For example, CC
1:05 triggers custom control 5 on bank 1.
CKINIT chromakey-number Initialize chroma key engine (chromakey-number).
Example: CKINIT 2
Result: Initializes chroma key engine 2.

CLIPEJECT Ejects the current clip from the clip player.

4 • Carbonite/Graphite Commands — RossTalk (v29)

Command Description
CLIPLOAD clip-name Loads the clip (clip-name) into the clip player.
Example: CLIPLOAD trees
Result: Loads the clip named trees into the clip player.

CLIPLOOPOFF Turns looping off for the clip player.

CLIPLOOPON Turns looping on for the clip player.
CLIPPAUSE Pauses the current clip in the clip player.
CLIPPLAY Plays the current clip loaded in the clip player.
DOWN sequencer Moves the selection of the next item to be run down one event
in the sequence loaded in Sequencer (sequencer).
Example: DOWN 4
Result: Moves the green highlight down an event on the
sequence loaded into Sequencer 3.

FOCUS sequencer:event Move the selection of the next item to be run to event number
(event) loaded in Sequencer (sequencer).
Example: FOCUS 3:2
Result: Moves the green highlight to event number 2 on the
sequence loaded into Sequencer 3.

FTB Performs a fade-to-black transition.

GPI xx Performs the action assigned to the GPI input xx. If the GPI
is assigned as an output, no action is performed.
Example: GPI 04
Result: Triggers GPI input 4.

HELP Prints a list of the supported commands.

KEYAUTO Performs an auto transition of keyer number (keyer) on ME
ME-source:ME-number:keyer:ON/OFF (ME-source) of number (ME-number) on-air (ON), off-air (OFF),
or toggle (omit :ON/OFF).
Example 1: KEYAUTO ME:1:4
Result 1: Triggers an auto transition of key 4 on ME 1
Example 2: KEYAUTO ME:2:1:OFF
Result 2: triggers an auto transition of key 1 on ME 2 only if
the key is on-air.

KEYAUTOOFF Performs an auto transition of keyer number (keyer) on ME

ME-source:ME-number:keyer (ME-source) of number (ME-number) to transition the key
off-air.
Example: KEYAUTOOFF ME:1:4
Result: If key 4 is on-air the command triggers an auto
transition of key 4 on ME 1. If the key is already off-air, no
transition is performed.

RossTalk (v29) — Carbonite/Graphite Commands • 5

 Command Description
KEYAUTOON Performs an auto transition of keyer number (keyer) on ME
ME-source:ME-number:keyer (ME-source) of number (ME-number) to transition the key
on-air.
Example: KEYAUTOON ME:1:4
Result: If key 4 is off-air the command triggers an auto
transition of key 4 on ME 1. If the key is already on-air, no
transition is performed.

KEYCUT Performs a cut of keyer number (keyer) on ME (ME-source) of

ME-source:ME-number:keyer:ON/OFF number (ME-number) on-air (ON), off-air (OFF), or toggle (omit
:ON/OFF).
Example 1: KEYCUT MME:2:1
Result 1: Triggers a cut of key 1 on MiniME™ output 2
Example 2: KEYCUT ME:1:3:ON
Result 2: Triggers an cut of key 3 on ME 1 only if the key is
off-air.

KEYCUTOFF Performs a cut of keyer number (keyer) on ME (ME-source) of

ME-source:ME-number:keyer number (ME-number) to transition the key off-air.
Example: KEYCUTOFF MME:2:1
Result: If key 1 is on-air the command triggers a cut of key 1
on MiniME™ output 2. If the key is already off-air, no transition
is performed.

KEYCUTON Performs a cut of keyer number (keyer) on ME (ME-source) of

ME-source:ME-number:keyer number (ME-number) to transition the key on-air.
Example: KEYCUTON MME:2:1
Result: If key 1 is off-air the command triggers a cut of key 1
on MiniME™ output 2. If the key is already on-air, no transition
is performed.

KEYMODE Sets the key mode (mode) to NORMAL, ADDITIVE, or FULL on

ME-source:ME-number:keyer:mode ME (ME-source) of number (ME-number).
Example: KEYMODE ME:2:1:NORMAL
Result: Uses the shaped/unshaped setting from the key setup
for keyer 1 on ME output 2.

LOADSET name Performs a recall of a set by name (name).

Example: LOADSET set1
Result: Loads set1 onto the switcher from the USB. Unlike
saving or loading a set from the control panel, RossTalk does
not support saving or loading of panel personality settings
with the setup. Settings such as color schemes or user button
assignments are not included with the set.

MEAUTO ME-source:ME-number Performs an auto transition on ME (ME-source) of number

(ME-number). The elements included with the transition are
set in the next transition area of the switcher.
Example: MEAUTO MSC:2
Result: Triggers an auto transition on MultiScreen channel
2.

6 • Carbonite/Graphite Commands — RossTalk (v29)

Command Description
MECUT ME-source:ME-number Performs a cut on ME (ME-source) of number (ME-number).
The elements included with the transition are set in the next
transition area of the switcher.
Example: MECUT ME:1
Result: Triggers a cut on ME 1.

MEM bm:ME-source :ME-number Performs a recall of memory (m) on bank (b) on ME

(ME-source) of number (ME-number).
Example: MEM 19:ME:2:MME:1
Result: Recalls memory 9 on bank 1 of ME 2 and MiniME™
output 1.

MEMSAVE bm:ME-source :ME-number Performs a store of memory (m) on bank (b) on ME (ME-source)
of number (ME-number).
Example: MEMSAVE 19:ME:2:MME:1
Result: Stores memory 9 on bank 1 of ME 2 and MiniME™
output 1.

MNEM source:new-name Sets a new mnemonic name (new-name) for a video source
(source).
Example: MNEM IN:6:CAM 1
Result: Sets the mnemonic name for input 6 to CAM 1.

MS channel:location:media-ID Loads a still of animation of ID number (media-ID) from the

USB (1) or internal (0) cache (location) into Media-Store
channel number (channel).
Example: MS 1:0:002
Result: Loads the AnnaCK still (002) from the internal cache
(0) to Media-Store channel 1. If you are using a Mosaic,
channels are numbered 101-136.

MVBOX Selects a video source (source) in a box of number (box) for

VP|OP:MultiViewer:box:source the Video Processor MultiViewer (VP) or I/O MultiViewer (OP)
number MultiViewer.
Example: MVBOX VP:1:5:IN:6
Result: Selects input 6 in box 5 of Video Processor MultiViewer
channel 1. Aux buses can also be selected as sources.

NEXT sequencer Runs the currently selected item in the sequence loaded into
Sequencer (sequencer) and advance the current selection to
the next item in the sequence.
Example: NEXT 2
Result: Runs the selected command in Sequencer 3.

SAVESET name Performs a store of a set by name (name).

Example: SAVESET set1
Result: Stores the current switcher settings to set1 on the
USB. Unlike saving or loading a set from the control panel,
RossTalk does not support saving or loading of panel
personality settings with the setup. Settings such as color
schemes or user button assignments are not included with
the set.

RossTalk (v29) — Carbonite/Graphite Commands • 7

 Command Description
SEQI sequencer:seq Loads the sequence (seq) into Sequencer (sequencer).
Example: SEQI 3:15
Result: Loads sequence 15 into Sequencer 3.

SEQO sequencer Unloads the sequence from Sequencer (sequencer).

Example: SEQO 1
Result: Unloads any sequence from Sequencer 1.

TRANSINCL Sets the next transition area on ME (ME-source) of number

ME-source:ME-number:incl:incl:incl (ME-number), to include the background (B) and/or keys (incl).
Example: TRANSINCL ME:2:B:2:3
Result: Configures the next transition area for ME 2 with
BKGD, KEY 2, and KEY 3 selected. Note that any existing
selections are lost.

TRANSRATE Sets the transition rate (rate), in frames, on ME (ME-source) of

ME-source:ME-number:rate number (ME-number).
Example: TRANSRATE ME:1:15
Result: Sets the ME transition rate for ME 1 to 15 frames.

TRANSTYPE Sets the transition type (type), see below, on ME (ME-source)

ME-source:ME-number:type of number (ME-number).
• Dissolve — DISS
• DVE — DVE
• Media Wipe — MEDIA
• Wipe — WIPE
Example: TRANSTYPE MSC:2:DISS
Result: Sets the transition type for MultiScreen channel 2 to
DISS.

UP sequencer Moves the selection of the next item to be run up one event
in the sequence loaded in Sequencer (sequencer).
Example: UP 1
Result: Moves the green highlight up an event on the
sequence loaded into Sequencer 1.

XPT vid-dest:vid-source Selects the video source (vid-source) on the bus (vid-dest).
Example 1: XPT ME:2:PGM:IN:6
Result 1: Selects input 6 on the Program bus of ME 2; XPT
ME:3:KEY:2:IN:20 selects input 20 on Key 2 of ME3
Example 2: XPT AUX:2:ME:1:CLN
Result 2: Selects the ME 1 clean feed on Aux bus 2. Refer to
the information after this table for a list of sources and
destinations.

Possible video destinations (vid-dest):

• Aux Bus — AUX:aux-number
• Key — ME:ME-number:KEY:key-number
• MiniME™ — MME:ME-number

8 • Carbonite/Graphite Commands — RossTalk (v29)

• Preset — ME:ME-number:PST
• Program — ME:ME-number:PGM
Possible video sources (vid-source):
• Aux Bus — AUX:aux-number
• Black — BK (vid-source only)
• Chroma Key Alpha — CKA:chroma key number (UltraChromeHR, Carbonite Black v14.0 or higher
only, or Carbonite Ultra)
• Chroma Key Video — CK:chroma key number (UltraChromeHR, Carbonite Black v14.0 or higher
only, or Carbonite Ultra)
• Clean Feed — CLN
• Clip Player — CLIP
• Input Source — IN:input-number
Tip: On Graphite and the CBF-113 (Carbonite Solo 13) the HDMI™ input is IN:13 and on the CBF-109 (Carbonite Solo) the HDMI™
inputs are IN:7, IN:8, and IN:9 for HDMI™ inputs 1-3 respectively.

• Matte Color — BG (vid-source only)

• ME Background — ME:ME-number:BKGD
• ME Clean — ME:ME-number:CLN (vid-source only)
• Media-Store — MS:channel-number
• ME Key Alpha — ME:ME-number:KEY:key-number:A
• ME Key Video — ME:ME-number:KEY:key-number:V
• ME MediaWipe Alpha — ME:ME-number:MWA
• ME MediaWipe — ME:ME-number:MW
• ME Preset — ME:ME-number:PST
• ME Preview — ME:ME-number:PV
• ME Program — ME:ME-number:PGM
• MiniME™ Background — MME:ME-number:BKGD
• MiniME™ Combined Key — MME:ME-number:CMB
• MiniME™ Key Alpha — MME:ME-number:KEY:key-number:A
• MiniME™ Key Video — MME:ME-number:KEY:key-number:V
• MiniME™ Preset — MME:ME-number:PST
• MiniME™ Preview — MME:ME-number:PV
• MiniME™ Program — MME:ME-number:PGM
• Preview — PV
• Program — PGM
• XPression (alpha) — XP:channel-number:A (Graphite only)
• XPression (video) — XP:channel-number:V (Graphite only)

RossTalk (v29) — Carbonite/Graphite Commands • 9

 XPression Commands
The XPression motion graphics system can be controlled from a remote device or computer via RossTalk
commands. These commands can be sent to the switcher over an ethernet connection.

Sending RossTalk Commands to XPression

XPression accepts RossTalk commands over ethernet on port 7788. This allows you to perform various
functions such as Take, Next, move up or down in the sequencer, and trigger a GPI.

To Send RossTalk Commands to XPression

Note: Each command should be terminated by a carriage return and a line feed (CR/LF).

1. Click Edit > Hardware Setup.

2. Click the GPI Boards tab.
3. Click Add and in the Brand list, click RossTalk.
4. Click OK.
5. In the State list, click Enabled.
6. Click TCP and in the TCP Port list, click 7788.

XPression Supported RossTalk Commands

XPression supports a number of RossTalk commands. The exact commands and how XPression reacts
to the commands is outlined in the following table.
Note: All commands are case sensitive.

Note: The framebuffer numbering in RossTalk does not match the numbering in XPression. For example, to select framebuffer 1 in XPression
you must enter framebuffer 0 in RossTalk. For framebuffer 2, enter 1, and so on.

Table 2: RossTalk Commands

Command Description
CLFB buffer Clears framebuffer number buffer.
Example: CLFB 0000
Result: Clears framebuffer 1.

CLFB buffer:layer Clears layer number layer in framebuffer number buffer.

Example: CLFB 0000:2
Result: Clears layer 2 on framebuffer 1.

CLRA Clears all framebuffers.

CUE takeid:buffer:layer Prepares take item takeid to go to air next in framebuffer
number buffer on layer number layer. The take item is not
taken to air, but is prepared to be taken to air without any
frame delay.
Example: CUE 3:2:-5
Result: Prepares to load the take item 3 into the framebuffer
3 and onto layer -5.

DOWN Move the current selection in the sequencer to the item below
it in the list.

10 • XPression Commands — RossTalk (v29)

Command Description
FOCUS takeid Set the sequencer focus to the take item number takeid.
Example: FOCUS 0005
Result: Sets the focus to take item 0005.

GPI gpi Trigger the simulated GPI input gpi. This is treated as if the
GPI input were triggered externally.
Example: GPI 5
Result: Triggers GPI input 5.

LAYEROFF buffer:layer Takes a scene in framebuffer number buffer on layer number

layer off air using the defined out transition.
Example: LAYEROFF 0000:2
Result: Removes the scene on layer 2 of framebuffer 0000
(the first framebuffer).

NEXT Take the current take item in the sequencer to air and advance
the current selection to the next item in the list.
READ Take the current selection in the sequencer to air.
RESUME buffer Resumes all layers in framebuffer number buffer.
Example: RESUME 0000
Result: Resumes all layers in framebuffer 1.

RESUME buffer:layer Resumes layer number layer in framebuffer number buffer.

Example: RESUME 0000:2
Result: Resumes layer 2 in framebuffer 1.

SEQI takeid:layer Loads the take item takeid to air on layer number layer to the
output channel selected in the template. The Sequencer focus
moves to this item.
Example: SEQI 0005:7
Result: Loads the take item 0005 onto layer 7.

SEQO takeid Takes the take item takeid off-air.

Example: SEQO 0005
Result: Takes the template with TakeID 5 off-air.

SWAP buffer Loads all the take items that are currently in the cued state
to air in framebuffer number buffer. If a framebuffer is not
specified, all cued take items in all framebuffers are taken to
air.
Example: SWAP 0
Result: Takes all the cued take items in framebuffer 1 to air.

TAKE takeid:buffer:layer Loads take item takeid to air in framebuffer number buffer on
layer number layer. The Sequencer focus does not move to
this item.
Example: TAKE 5:0:7
Result: Loads the template with TakeID 5 into framebuffer 1
and onto layer 7.

UNCUEALL Removes all cued items from the cued state.

RossTalk (v29) — XPression Commands • 11

 Command Description
UNCUE takeid Remove item with take id takeid from the cued state.
UP Move the current selection in the sequencer to the item above
it in the list.
UPNEXT takeid Sets the preview to the take item takeid in the sequencer
without moving the focus bar.

12 • XPression Commands — RossTalk (v29)

Acuity™/Vision Commands
The switcher can be controlled from a remote editor or computer via RossTalk commands. These
commands can be sent to the switcher over an ethernet connection.

Sending RossTalk Commands to Acuity™/Vision

Acuity™ and Vision accept RossTalk commands over ethernet on port 7788. This allows you to perform
various functions such as triggering a GPI, or sending commands to the switcher, such as transitioning
a key.

To Send RossTalk Commands to Acuity™/Vision

Note: Each command should be terminated by a carriage return and a line feed (CR/LF).

1. Press HOME > Setup > Installation > Com Setup > Type.
2. Use the Com Port knob to select the port that you want to assign to the RossTalk device.
3. Use the Device knob to select RossTalk.
4. Press Select Device and use the Device knob to select RTalk-IN.
5. Press Com Type and use the Type knob to select Network TCP.
6. Press Com Settings and use the Client/Server knob to select Server.
7. In the Remote Port field, enter 7788.
Tip: If you are using multiple RossTalk connections, it is recommended that you increment the port number for each device.

8. Press Extra Options.

Option Value
Cmd Response OFF (default)

9. Press HOME > Confirm.

Acuity™/Vision Supported RossTalk Commands

The switcher supports a number of RossTalk commands. The exact commands and how the switcher
reacts to the commands is outlined in the following table.
Note: When you are entering commands for Vision, you must use MLE instead of ME. Acuity™ supports both ME and MLE.

Note: All commands are case sensitive.

Tip: You can query the current state of a switcher component by replacing the selection part of the command with a ? For example, MVBOX
2:6:? returns what source is selected in box 6 on MultiViewer channel 2. The query function only applies to the XPT, MS, MNEM, TRANSRATE,
TRANSTYPE, TRANSINCL, MVBOX, and KEYSHAPED commands.

RossTalk (v29) — Acuity™/Vision Commands • 13

 Table 3: RossTalk Commands

Command Description
CAPTURE Performs a capture to RAM (RAM) or directly to disk (DISK) of
DISK/RAM:channel:source:frames the video source (source) using Media-Store channel (channel)
for a duration of (frames) frames. The switcher will reply when
the capture is completed.
Example 1: CAPTURE 3:PVW:5
Result 1: Performs a capture of the Preview video source,
using Media-Store channel 3, and with a duration of 5 frames.
Example 2: CAPTURE DISK:1:AUX:8:3:6
Result 2: Performs a capture to disk of Bank 8, Aux 3, using
Media-Store channel 1, and with a duration of 6 frames.

CC b:cc Executes custom control (cc) on bank (b).

Example: CC 1:05
Result: Triggers custom control 5 on bank 1.

FTB Performs a fade-to-black transition.

GPI xx Performs the action assigned to the GPI input xx. If the GPI
is an output, no action is performed.
Example: GPI 04
Result: Triggers GPI input 4.

GPI xx:On/Off Set GPI xx to on (On or 1) or off (Off or 0).

Example: GPI 04:Off
Result: Sets GPI 4 to off.

HELP Prints a list of the supported commands.

KEYAUTO ME:keyer Performs an auto transition of keyer number (keyer) on ME
number (ME).
Example: KEYAUTO 1:4
Result: Triggers an auto transition of key 4 on ME 1.

KEYAUTOON ME:keyer Transitions keyer number (keyer) on ME number (ME) on-air

if the key is not currently on-air.
Example: KEYAUTOON 3:2
Result: If key 2 is not currently on-air on ME 3 the command
triggers a transition of key 2 on ME 3.

KEYAUTOOFF ME:keyer Transitions keyer number (keyer) on ME number (ME) off-air

if the key is currently on-air.
Example: KEYAUTOON 1:4
Result: If key 4 is currently on-air on ME 1 the command
triggers a transition of key 4 on ME 1.

KEYCUT ME:keyer Performs a cut of keyer number (keyer) on ME number (ME).

Example: KEYCUT 2:1
Result: Triggers a cut of key 1 on ME 2.

14 • Acuity™/Vision Commands — RossTalk (v29)

Command Description
KEYCUTON ME:keyer Cuts keyer number (keyer) on ME number (ME) on-air if the
key is not currently on-air.
Example: KEYCUTON 3:2
Result: If key 2 is not currently on-air on ME 3 the command
triggers a cut of key 2 on ME 3.

KEYCUTOFF ME:keyer Cuts keyer number (keyer) on ME number (ME) off-air if the
key is currently on-air.
Example: KEYCUTON 1:4
Result: If key 4 is currently on-air on ME 1 the command
triggers a cut of key 4 on ME 1.

KEYSHAPED ME:keyer:ON/OFF Turns shaped keying on (ON) or off (OFF) for keyer number
(keyer) on ME number (ME).
Example: KEYSHAPED 2:1:ON
Result: Turns shaped keying on for key 1 on ME 2.

KEYSTATE ME:key Returns whether key number (key) on ME number (ME) is on

(On) or off (Off).
Example: KEYSTATE 4:4
Result: Returns the on-air state of key 4 on ME 4.

LOADSET USB/HD:setname Loads setup name (setname) from the USB drive (USB) or hard
drive (HD).
Example: LOADSET HD:SETUP01
Result: Loads SETUP01 from the hard drive.

MEAUTO ME Performs an auto transition on ME (ME). The elements

included with the transition are set in the next transition area
of the switcher.
Example: MEAUTO 2
Result: Triggers an auto transition on ME 2.

MECUT ME Performs a cut on ME (ME). The elements included with the

transition are set in the next transition area of the switcher.
Example: MECUT 1
Result: Triggers a cut on ME 1.

MEM bm:ME Performs a memory recall of memory (m) on bank (b) on ME

(ME).
Example: MEM 19:2:1
Result: Recalls memory 9 on bank 1 of ME 2 and ME 1.
Tip: You can also query what the last memory recalled on an
MEwas using MEM ?:ME. Entering MEM ? returns the last memory
recalled on the program ME.

MEMSAVE bm:ME Performs a store to memory (m) on bank (b) on ME (ME).

Example: MEMSAVE 23:1:2:4
Result: Stores memory 3 on bank 2 on ME 1, ME 2, and ME 4.

RossTalk (v29) — Acuity™/Vision Commands • 15

 Command Description
MNEM source:new-name Sets a new mnemonic name (new-name) for a video source
(source).
Example: MNEM IN:6:CAM 1
Result: Sets the mnemonic name for input 6 to CAM 1.

MS media-store: channel:media-ID Loads a media file of ID number (media-ID) into the

Global-Store (GS), Global-Store Audio (GSA), or ME-Store
(ME:ME#) cache (media-store) into channel number (channel).
Example: MS ME:4:2:52
Result: Loads the media file 52 into channel 2, of the ME-Store
on ME 4.

MSPLAY media-store: channel Play the media file currently loaded in the Global-Store (GS),
Global-Store Audio (GSA), or ME-Store (ME:ME#) cache
(media-store) into channel number (channel).
Example: MSPLAY GSA:2
Result: Plays the media item loaded into Global-Store Audio
channel 2.

MVBOX MultiViewer:box:source Selects a video source (source) in a box of number (box) for
MultiViewer number MultiViewer.
Example: MVBOX 1:5:IN:6
Result: Selects input 6 in box 5 of MultiViewer channel 1. Aux
buses can also be selected as sources.

RESETALL Performs an ALL+ALL soft reset on the switcher. There are no

other parameters for this command.
SAVESET USB/HD:setup:setname Saves the switcher setting to setup number (setup) with the
name (setname) to the USB drive (USB) or hard drive (HD).
Example: SAVESET USB:5:MORNING
Result: Saves a setup called MORNING to setup 5 on the USB
drive. If you don't include the setup number the switcher will
try to match the setname and overwrite it.

SETVIDMODE REF:format Set the format (format) of the input reference to the switcher.
Uses the same internal or external source as well as reference
board that is currently selected.
Example: SETVIDMODE REF:1080i50
Result: Sets the switcher expect 1080i 50Hz as the input
reference format.

SETVIDMODE VID:format Set the video format (format) that you want the switcher to
operate in.
Example: SETVIDMODE VID:1080i59.94
Result: Sets the switcher to operate in the 1080i 59.94Hz video
format and SETVIDMODE VID:480i 16x9 sets the switcher
to operate in the 480i video format with a 16:9 aspect ratio.

16 • Acuity™/Vision Commands — RossTalk (v29)

 Command Description
TRANSINCL ME:incl:incl:incl Sets the next transition area on ME number (ME), to include
the background (B) and/or keys (incl).
Example: TRANSINCL 2:B:2:3
Result: Configures the next transition area for ME 2 with
BKGD, KEY 2, and KEY 3 selected. Note that any existing
selections are lost.

TRANSRATE ME:rate Sets the transition rate (rate), in frames, on ME number (ME).
Example: TRANSRATE 2:15
Result: Sets the ME transition rate for ME 2 to 15 frames.

TRANSTYPE ME:type Sets the transition type (type), see below, on ME number (ME).
• Dissolve — DISS
• Wipe — WIPE
• DVE — DVE
• Media Wipe — MEDIA
Example: TRANSTYPE 3:DISS
Result: Sets the transition type for ME 3 to DISS.

USERVAR name:value Assign a number (value) to the user variable with the name
(name).
Example: USERVAR A:10
Result: Creates a variable of the name A with a value of 10.

USERVAR name:operation:value Perform the operation (operation) (+ - * / =) with a value

of (value) on the user variable with the name (name).
Example: USERVAR A:+:5
Result: Adds 5 to the variable A.

VERSION Returns the current version of software running on the

switcher.
XPT vid-dest:vid-source Select a video source (vid-source) on (vid-dest).
Example: XPT ME:2:PGM:IN:6
Result: Selects input C6 on the Program bus of ME 2. Refer
to the information after this table for a list of sources and
destinations.

Possible video destinations (vid-dest):

• Aux Bus — AUX:aux-bank-number:aux-number
• Key — ME:ME-number:KEY:key-number
• Key (alpha/backside/2nd DVE channel) — ME:ME-number:KEY:key-number:KEYBUS:2
Tip: The second channel of the key is either the alpha channel, backside video, or DVE channel, depending on how the key is configured.

• Preset — ME:ME number:PST

• Program — ME:ME number:PGM
Possible video sources (vid-source):
• Aux Bus — AUX:aux-bank-number:aux-number
• Black — BK (vid-source only)

RossTalk (v29) — Acuity™/Vision Commands • 17

 • Clean — ME:ME number:CLN:cln-number (Clean Feed 1-2 only) (vid-source only)
• Global-Store — GS:channel-number
• Input Source — IN:input-number (vid-source only)
• Key — ME:ME-number:KEY:key-number
• Matte Color — BG:BKGD-number (vid-source only)
• ME-Store — MS:ME-number:channel-number
• MultiViewer A — MVA:Head A on MultiViewer number
• MultiViewer B — MVB:Head B on MultiViewer number
Possible ME Sources (ME)
• Preview — ME:ME number:PV
• Program A/B — ME:ME number:PGM (selects PGMA or PGMB depending on what is selected on the
panel)
• Program A — ME:ME number:PGMA
• Program B — ME:ME number:PGMB
• Program C — ME:ME number:PGMC
• Program D — ME:ME number:PGMD
• Program E — ME:ME number:PGME
• Program F — ME:ME number:PGMF

18 • Acuity™/Vision Commands — RossTalk (v29)

openGear® Commands
The MDK-111A-M, MDK-111A-K, and MC1-MK can each be controlled from a remote editor or computer
via RossTalk commands. These commands can be sent to these openGear® cards over an ethernet
connection (TCP/UDP) or via a serial port (RS-232/RS-422) on the rear module of the card.

Sending RossTalk Commands to openGear®

The openGear® cards accept RossTalk commands over ethernet on port 7788 or through a direct serial
connection. This allows you to perform various functions such as triggering a GPI, or sending commands
to the cards, such as transitioning a key.

To Send RossTalk Commands to an openGear® Card

Note: Each command should be terminated by a carriage return and a line feed (CR/LF).

1. From the Tree View, expand the node for the card you want to access.
2. Select the Config tab.
3. Select the Remote Control tab.
4. Select the type of communication you want to use.
• Serial — locate the Serial Port area and select RossTalk from the Protocol menu.
• Ethernet — locate the RossTalk row in the Ethernet Port area and select the ethernet protocol
you want to use.
5. Configure the port.
• Serial — select the Port Type, Bit Rate, Data Bits, Parity, and Stop Bits settings.
• Ethernet — use the factory default settings.
6. Enable the port.
• Serial — select the Port Enabled check box.
• Ethernet — select the RossTalk Enabled check box.

openGear® Supported RossTalk Commands

The openGear® cards supports a number of RossTalk commands. The exact commands and how the
card reacts to the commands is outlined in the following table.
Note: All commands and file names are case sensitive.

Table 4: RossTalk Commands

Command Description
FTB Performs a fade-to-black transition. (Not supported on the
MDK-111A-K.)
GPI gpi Trigger the GPI input gpi. This is treated as if the GPI input
were triggered externally.
Example: GPI 8
Result: Triggers GPI input 8.

KEYAUTO 1:keyer Performs an auto transition of keyer number (keyer).

Example: KEYAUTO 1:2
Result: Triggers an auto transition of key 2.

RossTalk (v29) — openGear® Commands • 19

 Command Description
KEYCUT 1:keyer Performs a cut of keyer number (keyer).
Example: KEYCUT 1:1
Result: Triggers a cut of key 1.

MSPATH channel:0:file-name Loads a media file (file-name) from the CompactFlash® (0)
into Logo channel number (channel).
Example: MSPATH 4:0:Logo/Ross_LOGO.png
Result: Loads the media file called Ross_LOGO.png from the
Logo directory into channel 4.

VGPIARM vgpi:arm Arm (arm = 1) or disarm (arm = 0 or 2) the effect number (vgpi)
on preset.
VGPISTATE vgpi:state Takes the effect number (vgpi) on-air (state = 1) or off-air (state
= 0).

20 • openGear® Commands — RossTalk (v29)

Ultrix™ Commands
The Ultrix™ router can be controlled from a remote editor or computer via RossTalk commands. These
commands can be sent to the router over an ethernet connection.

Sending RossTalk Commands to Ultrix™

Ultrix™ accepts RossTalk commands over ethernet on port 7788. This allows you to perform various
functions such as triggering a GPI or operating a timer.
Tip: Ultrix™ automatically accepts RossTalk commands on port 7788.

To Send RossTalk Commands to Ultrix™

Note: Each command should be terminated by a carriage return and a line feed (CR/LF).

1. Create a network connection to the router on port 7788.

Tip: If you are using multiple RossTalk connections, it is recommended that you increment the port number for each device.

2. At the prompt, enter the commands you want to send to the router.

Ultrix™ Supported RossTalk Commands

The router supports a number of RossTalk commands. The exact commands and how the router reacts
to the commands is outlined in the following table.
Note: All commands are case sensitive.

Table 5: RossTalk Commands

Command Description
GPI XX Send the fire command for salvo XX.
Example: GPI 23
Result: Sends the command to fire salvo 23.

TIMER XX:END Send the end command for clock XX.

Example: TIMER 4:END
Result: Sends the end command for timer 4.

TIMER XX:PAUSE Send the pause command for clock XX.

Example: TIMER 1:PAUSE
Result: Sends the pause command for timer 1.

TIMER XX:RUN Send the run command for clock XX.

Example: TIMER 3:RUN
Result: Sends the run command for timer 3.

TIMER XX:STOP Send the stop command for clock XX.

Example: TIMER 2:STOP
Result: Sends the stop command for timer 2.

RossTalk (v29) — Ultrix™ Commands • 21

 Command Description
XPT D:vid-dest S:vid-source User or panel number (user-id) is requesting the video source
I:user-id L:levels (vid-source) be selected on destination (vid-dest) on levels
(levels).
Example: XPT D:5 S:16 I:7 L:1,6,10-13
Result: Selects source 16 on destination 5 for levels 1, 6, and
10 through 13 with the request coming from user/panel ID
7.
Tip: Each argument is separated by a space. Multiple levels are
separated by a comma, with no spaces, and can include ranges.
Levels are optional and don't need to be included.

22 • Ultrix™ Commands — RossTalk (v29)

Ross® Video Server (Mira, Tria, Kiva) Commands
The Ross® video servers (Mira, Tria, and Kiva families) can be controller from a remote editor or computer
via RossTalk commands. These commands are sent to the server over an ethernet connection.

Sending RossTalk Commands to a Ross® Video Server

The Ross® video servers accept RossTalk commands over ethernet on port 7788. This allows you to
perform various functions such as cue and play a clip on a channel.
Tip: Ross® servers automatically accept RossTalk commands on port 7788.

To Send RossTalk Commands to a Ross® Video Server

Note: Each command should be terminated by a carriage return and a line feed (CR/LF).

1. Create a network connection to the server on port 7788.

Tip: If you are using multiple RossTalk connections, it is recommended that you increment the port number for each device.

2. At the prompt, enter the commands you want to send.

Ross® Video Servers Supported RossTalk Commands

The servers support a number of RossTalk commands. The exact commands and how the server reacts
to the commands is outlined in the following table.
Note: All commands are case sensitive.

Note: Clip names must include the path relative to the default H:\video\ directory. If a clip is located in the video directory then
you only need to provide the name of the clip. If a clip is located in a subdirectory, then you need to provide that relative path, for example
\news\crime-report.
Table 6: RossTalk Commands

Command Description
CUE channel:clip Load a clip of the name clip into channel channel.
Example: CUE D:crime-report
Result: Loads a clip with the name crime-report into Channel
D of the server.

CUE channel:clip:timecode Load a clip of the name clip at position timecode into channel
channel.
Example: CUE A:goal-highlight:00,00,15,00
Result: Loads a clip with the name goal-highlight into
Channel A of the server and seeks to 15 seconds into the clip.

PLAY channel Play the clip currently loaded into channel channel.
Example: PLAY B
Result: Plays the clip currently loaded into Channel B.

PLAY channel:clip Load a clip of the name clip into channel channel and play it
from the beginning.
Example: PLAY B:storm
Result: Loads the clip storm into Channel B and plays it from
the beginning of the clip.

RossTalk (v29) — Ross® Video Server (Mira, Tria, Kiva) Commands • 23

 Command Description
PLAY channel:clip:timecode Load a clip of the name clip into channel channel and play it
from position timecode.
Example: PLAY B:storm:00,00,03,10
Result: Loads the clip storm into Channel B, seeks to
timecode 00,00,03,10 and plays it from that position.

STOP channel Stop the clip currently playing in channel channel.

Example: STOP F
Result: Stops Channel F.

GOTO channel:timecode Seek to the position timecode in the clip loaded into channel
channel.
Example: GOTO A:00,00,00,20
Result: seeks to position 00,00,00,20 in the clip loaded into
Channel A.

JOG channel:amount Jog backward or forwards by amount in the clip loaded into
channel channel.
Example: JOG C:-20f
Result: Jogs in reverse by 20 frames in the clip loaded into
Channel C.

LOOP channel:mode Set the clip repeat mode mode for channel channel. The
possible modes are off, loop, loop-to, ping-pong, and
ping-pong-to.
Example: LOOP B:loop
Result: Sets the clip repeat mode for Channel B to Loop.

ANGLE channel:angle Select the camera angle angle to use from the ISO clip loaded
into channel channel.
Example: ANGLE A:3
Result: Sets the playout of the clip loaded into Channel A to
Camera Angle 3.

EJECT channel Unload the clip currently loaded into channel channel.
Example: EJECT A
Result: Unloads the clip in Channel A.

24 • Ross® Video Server (Mira, Tria, Kiva) Commands — RossTalk (v29)