Skip to content

Smart Home Pro

Technician Community

  • About Ashley

Tag: Tech Newsletter

bookmark_borderIssue 58 – Fortune Favors Preparedness This March

Posted on March 12, 2024June 13, 2024 by Holly Bechtler

Hey, Integrator Pros!

As we don our virtual green attire to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this month, we consider what it means to be lucky. Luck is predictable; the more you prepare for success, the luckier you get. Proactive education is your lucky charm, and successful, efficient installs are your pot of gold. In celebration of just how clover you are, we’ve traveled over the rainbow to bring you the latest new product features, tips, tricks, and more. We know your skills are worth your weight in gold.

Irish you a very Happy St. Patrick’‘s Day!

Holly Bechtler

Technical Writing Operations Specialist 

Changes in CLOvrC Pro Hub

The OvrC® Pro Hub device will no longer be claimed when found in a network scan. Instead, it will have to be manually claimed to the location. This makes it the ideal tool for account takeovers. This change does not impact any Araknis® or Pakedge® router or Control4® controllers. These devices will continue to be claimed through a network scan or manually as usual.

To learn more about the recommended process for an account takeover using an OvrC Pro Hub, check out this post in the Tech Community.

Pro Tip: Carry an OVRC-300-PRO specifically for takeovers. Once the takeover is complete, you can use the device acting as the OvrC Pro agent in the location to perform all tasks.
Did you hear that scientists figured out how to measure the weight of a rainbow? Turns out it’s pretty light.

Chrome Browser HTTPS Certificate Error: “Your connection is not private”

If you encounter the Chrome browser HTTPS certificate error “Your connection is not private” while using a MacOS or Windows machine, you’re not alone. This may happen when trying to reach pages using a secure web page (secure HTTP/HTTPS). When this error occurs, the page won’t provide an option to bypass and won’t let you reach the login page.
Solution: To push past this page, click somewhere on it, and then type the phrase ‘thisisunsafe‘ anywhere on the page to get through to the device UI. Alternatively, you can use a browser other than Chrome to avoid this.

Read more details in the Tech Community.
Where do police put misbehaving leprechauns? The paddy wagon.

Use This Workaround for OpenVPN Connect App and Araknis x10 Routers

Snap One is aware of an issue where the newer OpenVPN Connect app versions do not allow connections to Araknis 110 and 310 Series routers on firmware versions 1.2.25 and below. We are actively researching a resolution that will minimize any inconvenience to our Partners while aligning with OpenVPN’s updated security standards.

The current workaround:
  • Go into OpenVPN’s Settings.
  • Scroll down to Advanced Settings.
  • Change the Security Level to Insecure.
This security selection may change if the router is running a more up-to-date firmware version.

Note: OpenVPN is an open-source software provider and reserves the right to change its security requirements at any time. In this instance, OpenVPN heightened its security criteria standards for encryption. Consequently, the current security encryption for OpenVPN connections on Araknis x10 series routers is now regarded as “Insecure,” according to OpenVPN’s new assessment.

Read more in the Tech Community.
What do you call Dwayne Johnson’s stunt double?
 The Sham-Rock!

Order Matters When Configuring Control4 Keypad Dimmers

Configuring Min On and Max On levels is a great way to optimize the dimming range for a load controlled by a variety of Control4 keypad dimmers. This feature is often required for LED loads that don’t turn on at low levels of dimming. Snap One has identified an error that exists in calculating the Min On level that results in the functional Min On level being adjusted when the Max On level is changed.

The suggested workaround:
Configure the Max On level first, then adjust the Min On level. 

Read more details in the Tech Community.

This Month’s Lucky Charm

Technical Support Agent Eric Hatch is this month’s TRUE G.R.I.T. Award Winner! The TRUE G.R.I.T. Award recognizes Snap One technical support agents who provide top-notch support to our Partners. Based in Springfield, MO, Eric specializes in Infrastructure Support. It’s no surprise his teammates have great things to say about his dedication to helping our Partners and his teammates succeed.

“Eric shows ownership by taking on any task presented to him, no matter the difficulty.”

“Eric has proven to be a great team resource for support on Clare® and the rest of our infrastructure products.”

When Eric isn’t busy being a rock star, he enjoys helping rescued animals find their forever homes, experiencing the culture of different countries, and computer gaming.
My sister caught me ironing a four-leaf clover. She told me I should never press my luck.

Knowledgebase

New or updated articles:
  • How to Use the AN-920 Switch “Easy MoIP Setup” Feature (new)
  • Install an SD Card in a LUM-420-IP-PTZ-25W (new)
  • Araknis X20 Router Default ACLs (new)
  • When to offer Assist vs. Parasol (new)
  • Selecting a PoE Switch with the Correct PoE Budget (new)
  • How to Self-Enroll in a Course as a Snap One Portal User (new)
  • How to Add Users to Your Snap One Account (updated to include new Purchaser Admin role)
  • How to Move a Customer’s Existing OvrC Devices to Your OvrC Account (updated)
New and updated known issues:
  • T4 8” Touchscreens Exhibit Jitter Issues After Updating from 3.4.0 to 3.4.1 (new)
New and updated product documentation: 
  • Luma Insights Release Notes (new)
  • Araknis x10 Series Router Firmware 1.4.10 & 1.4.11 Release Notes (new)
  • Binary MoIP Firmware v4.1.2.6 Release Notes (new)
What kind of spells do leprechauns use? Lucky charms.

Smart Skills

New or updated Smart Skills:
  • Setting Up a Control4 Project in OvrC from Creation to Activation (new)
  • Integrating and Configuring a CoolMaster Controller in Composer (new)
How do you turn vegetable soup into gold soup? Add 24 carrots.

Snap One Training Opportunities

See the full training calendar here, or check out the links below. 

Events:
Luma Skilled Series Part 4: Luma Integration with Control4 – March 13, 2024, 9:00 a.m. PST / 12:00 p.m. EST
Luma Skilled Series Part 5: Selling Luma Surveillance – March 19, 2024, 9:00 a.m. PST / 12:00 p.m. EST (Note that this training is on a Tuesday, not on a Wednesday like the others.) 
MoIP Ecosystem – Now More Than Just Video

March 21, 2024, 6:00 a.m. PST / 9:00 a.m. EST 
March 21, 2024, 9:00 a.m. PST / 12:00 p.m. EST 
ISE

The 20th anniversary of Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) is now behind us. To be clear, we don’t send only our marketing team and salespeople to trade shows – we also send our technical people to learn from technicians like you. Our esteemed trainers also taught classes on Radiance®, Vibrant® Lighting, OvrC plus WattBox®, and the Luma X20 series. It was great to get out of the classroom and… well, into classrooms in a different country! 
Tommy Moore, Sales Engineer, runs cables for a display.
Tommy Moore, Sales Engineer, runs cables for a display.
Tommy Moore, Sales Engineer, runs cables for a display.

Mike Carter, Tech Support Manager, terminates cables for a booth tower.
Mike Carter, Tech Support Manager, terminates cables for a booth tower.
Mike Carter, Tech Support Manager, terminates cables for a booth tower.
Cameron Berrett, Technical Training Manager, demonstrates custom lighting.
Cameron Berrett, Technical Training Manager, demonstrates custom lighting.
Cameron Berrett, Technical Training Manager, demonstrates custom lighting.
Thanks to helpers like them, the booth looked great!
Thanks to helpers like them, the booth looked great!
Thanks to helpers like them, the booth looked great!
Why do leprechauns hate puns?
 They find them O’ffensive.

Drivers

New Drivers

D&M
  • Marantz CINEMA 30
  • Marantz CINEMA 30 EU
Paradigm
  • MRX SLM/USR51
Updated Drivers

Mcintosh
  • MX123
See more drivers through your respective web portal:  

Snap One Portal Users>> 
Control4® Portal Users>> 
Control4 EMEA Portal Users>> 
What does a leprechaun have on his deck? Paddy O’Furniture.

Connecting a Chime® Video Doorbell to a Luma X20 NVR in OvrC

To connect a Chime video doorbell to a Luma X20 NVR in OvrC, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your dealer OvrC account.
2. Choose the project and location. 
3. Add the Chime video doorbell to the Luma X20 NVR.

Reminder: The customer will now receive notifications from the Chime video doorbell using the Luma View app. To modify this, go back to the Chime driver configurations in Composer. 

Read more details in the Tech Community.
What do horses wear for good luck? Shoes.

How to Use the AN-920 Switch’s “Easy MoIP Setup” Feature

OvrC provides a CONFIGURE MOIP SYSTEM button on the Details page of Araknis-920 switches. Simply use the Select ports dropdown to designate which ports have B-960 devices connected to them, and then click APPLY.

Caution: “Easy MoIP Setup” configures the switch to be an IGMP querier. Do not use this feature if there are multiple IGMP queriers on the network.

Read more details in the Tech Community.
What dog breed is a leprechaun’s favorite? Golden retriever.

Camouflage as Cable Management

Sometimes you just can’t punch a hole in that wall. This approach works especially well with floral wallpaper.

Time to Share Your Tips and Tricks!

We want to hear more from you. (Yes, you! ) We’d love to keep this section going, so if you have a cool idea, whether it’s easy or advanced, send it our way! We’d love to shine a spotlight on you and share your ideas with our awesome community of technicians! 

Sharing is Caring: Submit Your Tip Here!
Posted in technical-newsTagged AV, drivers, education, Integrator pro, integrator pro insider, smarthome-pros, smarthome-tech, Tech Newsletter, technical-newsletterLeave a Comment on Issue 58 – Fortune Favors Preparedness This March

bookmark_borderIssue 57 – Watts of Love and Knowledge Treats This February

Posted on February 6, 2024April 5, 2024 by Holly Bechtler

Hey, Integrator Pros!

Technology is like a box of chocolates. Unless a clear product description is included, you don’t know what you’re going to get (until you take a byte). Consider this month’s edition a small token of our affection – your personal, heart-shaped user guide for the numerous products you support. We’re passionate about sweet new product features, tips, tricks, and more, but our favorite flavor is helping you succeed. You auto-complete us.

Watts of love from yours truly,

Holly Bechtler
Technical Writing Operations Specialist 

P.S. Are you the Tech Community? Because you’ve got everything I’ve been searching for.

Choosing The One is All About PoE Budgeting

In life, love, and business, meticulous decisions are a must. Lucky for you, we’ve written a guide to help you find the Right One (PoE switch for your application, that is). Those who proactively calculate the total PoE budget required by connected devices are more likely to spec the proper switch for the installation. An underperforming PoE switch can cause avoidable performance & reliability issues throughout the system, so choosing the proper PoE switch saves time and money. Find how much PoE a product requires, and the total PoE a switch can offer, under the Specs tab on the product page.

Read more in the Tech Community on selecting the proper PoE switch with the correct PoE budget.

Note: The most common mistake technicians make when calculating PoE budget in an existing install is only looking at the current power consumption shown on the switch’s web GUI/OvrC. This means when devices operate at peak PoE consumption, your switch may not provide enough power, which can cause a variety of issues.
Product specs of the Araknis®W-Fi 6 820 Access Point
Product specs of the Araknis 920 L3 Managed 10G++ Switch

Before you marry a person, make them use a computer with slow internet to see who they really are.

We’re Really Connecting Over Control4® Connect and Assist

We’re proud to announce our new software and support solutions for our U.S. Control4 Partners! Control4 Connect and Control4 Assist have been in development for over a year in collaboration with our Partners to enhance the end customer experience, simplify our Partners’ lives, and drive their growth and profitability. 

Join us to learn more about Connect and Assist in our Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions. Our Leadership team will give you an overview and answer your questions. 

Register for February 7th or February 8th.
My new girlfriend works at the zoo. Mom says she’s a keeper.

Lots to Love in the Latest Vibrant® Linear Lighting Launch

In the year since we unveiled the Vibrant Linear Lighting Micro-Certification, we’ve analyzed course data and gathered feedback and suggestions from local training. Now, it’s even better, thanks to the following updates:
  • Reorganizing the course to improve the flow
  • Adding and updating Axxess control content
  • Updating DMX sections to include accurate, practical diagrams
  • Updating the learning assessments
  • Updating navigation control
These updates went live in January. Technicians already enrolled do not need to re-enroll. However, technicians in the middle of a course will restart that course.

See how to enroll in the Vibrant Linear Lighting Micro-Certification here.

Luma® VMS Brings Cameras Together

On January 31st, we released the Luma Surveillance VMS. This application leverages OvrC ® to help you monitor cameras across a large territory. Its user permissions, virtual mapping, alarm configuration, customized linkages, and more will help to make the most of your system. 

The VMS docs start here, and include a link to the free software download. Be sure to review the technical specs (VMS requires a LOT from your computer) and follow the quick-start guide for the easiest experience.

Me without you is like aSentenceWithoutSpaces.

This Month’s Passionate Problem-Solver

Technical Support Agent Daniel Rodriguez is this month’s TRUE G.R.I.T. Award winner! The TRUE G.R.I.T. Award recognizes Snap One technical support agents who provide top-notch support to our Partners.

Based in Houston, Texas, Daniel specializes in networking support. He’s noted by his teammates for his attention to detail, positive attitude, and willingness to go the extra mile to assist them as well as our Partners.

“Daniel is a great internal resource who is always willing to answer questions or help others troubleshoot.”

“He makes an extra effort to help our Partners’ systems run efficiently.”

“Daniel’s communication skills are top-notch. He makes a point to explain the ‘why’ behind any changes he makes to educate our Partners, and strives to help their day go more smoothly.” 

When Daniel isn’t offering top-notch support, he enjoys cooking, trying new restaurants, and riding bikes along local park trails.
My sister married a novelist. She finally found Mr. Write.

Knowledgebase

New or updated articles:
  • AVR Analog Audio Prioritized Over HDMI Audio (new)
  • Configuring MultiView (MV) in Control4 for Binary® B-960 MoIP Receivers (new)
  • Configuring Picture-in-Picture (PIP) in Control4 with B-960 MoIP Receivers (new)
  • How to use the AN-920 switch Easy MoIP Setup feature (new)
Articles related to Control4 Connect, Assist, and Assist Premium:
  • How to Register a Control4 Controller in OvrC
  • Control4 Controller Registration Transition to OvrC
  • Controller Registration and HandoffPartner of Record (PoR) Change Process
  • Control4 Project Takeover Checklist
  • Best Practices: Setting Up OvrC Locations
  • Best Practices: Setting up and Understanding Notifications
  • Best Practices for Control4 Projects
  • Support Experience for End Customers without Assist, with Assist, and with Assist Premium
  • Important Data to Include for Support
  • Control4 Connect and Assist: System Insights
Articles related to Assist and Assist Premium only:
  • Requirements for Control4 Assist Authorized Partners
  • What Does a Control4 Assist Agent do?
  • Best Practices: Managing and Responding to Control4 Assist Support Tickets
New and updated product documentation:
  • OvrC User Guide (updated for Control4 Connect, Assist, and Assist Premium)
  • MoIP Install Guide (updated to include MultiView, Picture-in-Picture, and Easy MoIP Setup)
  • Control4 OS 3.4.1 Release Notes (new)
  • Luma VMS — Beta (new)

Sweet Smart Skills

New or updated Smart Skills:
  • Configuring a Custom Circadian Lighting Program Using the Daylight Agent
You must be a chicken because you’re impeccable.

Enchanting Training Opportunities

See the full training calendar here, or check out the links below.


Events:
Networking + OvrC Webinar: Building a Security Ecosystem that Drives Efficiency, Profitability, and Support – February 14, 2024, 11:00 a.m. PT / 2:00 p.m. ET
Luma Skilled Series Part 1: Luma X20 NVR and Camera Configuration – February 21, 2024, 9:00 a.m. PST / 12:00 p.m. EST
Luma Skilled Series Part 2: Luma View App Management – February 28, 2024, 9:00 a.m. PST / 12:00 p.m. EST
Luma Skilled Series Part 3: Luma VMS Client Setup and Management  – March 6, 2024, 9:00 a.m. PST / 12:00 p.m. EST
How do you get a farm girl to date you? A tractor.

Dazzling Drivers

New Drivers
Sony®
  • 2023 TVs – A95L Series
Denon®
  • AVR-X6800H
  • AVC-X6800H
Kwikset®
  • Halo WiFi Locks
Updated Drivers
Sony®
  • X77L – Re-released drivers with IR as the control method
Black Nova®
  • Updated driver for keypads
See more drivers through your respective web portal: 

Snap One Portal Users>> 
Control4® Portal Users>> 
Control4 EMEA Portal Users>> 
Why did the banker break up with her boyfriend? She could tell he was losing interest.
Why did the banker break up with her boyfriend? She could tell he was losing interest.

Configuring MultiView in Control4 for B-960 MOIP Receivers

MultiView (MV)  allows you to configure multiple windows with individual sources to a single B-960 receiver. 

To configure MV in Control4:
  • Create the MV Preset in the B-960 Receiver driver.
  • Create a Macro.
  • Program the MV Preset.
Note: Sources in an MV session cannot be streamed elsewhere until the session ends. These instructions include a Macro configuration to ensure the B-960 transmitters and transceivers disconnect so they can join the MV session.

Read more details on these steps in the Tech Community.


I’m opening a chain of Elvis-themed steak restaurants. It will be for people who love meat tender.

Configuring PIP in C4 for MOIP

B-960 MoIP Picture-in-Picture (PIP) requires you to create a PIP Preset in the B-960 MoIP receiver driver and program the use case. Learn how to program motion from a camera to trigger PIP on an output for 15 seconds in the Tech Community.

I used to date someone who reported the weather. We had a stormy relationship.

Adding an SD Card to the Luma 420 PTZ

The 420 PTZ has an SD card slot on the inside of the camera housing. This KB article shows you exactly where it is. 

Known Issues With the Luma 420 PTZ

We are aware of a few issues with the PTZ, so you should be aware, too. Rest assured we are working on fixes for each of these. 
  • PTZ cameras have separate presets from the NVR
  • You cannot call a preset while the camera is engaged in smart tracking
  • When using a PTZ through Control4, you cannot call a PTZ function
I just saw two zombies on a date. And they say romance is dead…

Time to Share Your HeartTips and Tricks!

We want to hear more from you. (Yes, you!) We’d love to keep this section going, so if you have a cool idea, whether it’s easy or advanced, send it our way! We’d love to shine a spotlight on you and share your ideas with our awesome community of technicians! 

Sharing is Caring: Submit Your Tip Here!
Posted in technical-newsTagged AV, drivers, education, Integrator pro, integrator pro insider, smarthome-pros, smarthome-tech, Tech Newsletter, technical-newsletterLeave a Comment on Issue 57 – Watts of Love and Knowledge Treats This February

Recent Posts

  • Issue 66-Harvest These Time Saving Tricks This November
  • Issue 65-Stay Ahead of the Carve this October
  • Issue 64-Toast to Your Product Knowledge This September
  • Issue 63-You’re A Cut Above The Rest This August
  • Issue 62-Sparking Technical Discussions This July

Recent Comments

  • Steve Leatherbarrow on Best Practices for Your Button Engravings
  • Mike Balay on Best Practices for Your Button Engravings
  • Ted Haeger on Best Practices for Your Button Engravings
  • Ted Haeger on Best Practices for Your Button Engravings
  • Chris on Best Practices for Your Button Engravings

Archives

  • December 2024
  • November 2024
  • October 2024
  • August 2024
  • July 2024
  • June 2024
  • May 2024
  • April 2024
  • March 2024
  • February 2024
  • January 2024
  • December 2023
  • November 2023
  • October 2023
  • September 2023
  • August 2023
  • July 2023
  • June 2023
  • May 2023
  • April 2023
  • March 2023
  • February 2023
  • January 2023
  • December 2022
  • November 2022
  • October 2022
  • September 2022
  • August 2022
  • July 2022
  • June 2022
  • May 2022
  • April 2022
  • March 2022
  • February 2022
  • January 2022
  • December 2021
  • November 2021
  • October 2021
  • September 2021
  • August 2021
  • July 2021
  • June 2021
  • May 2021
  • April 2021
  • March 2021
  • February 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019

Categories

  • keypads
  • lighting
  • Private
  • technical-news
  • Uncategorized
  • user interface

Meta

  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org
keyboard_arrow_up
Theme: Noto Simple