SIMULATED Multifunction Keypad

Serial Interface

The Simulated Multifunction Keypad has a serial interface that can be used to send commands and receive messages. The serial interface is implemented as a “serial over USB” interface. The serial bus runs at 115200 baud, no parity, 8 data bits and 1 stop bit. In addition to transporting commands and messages, the interface also displays human readable information. The serial interface and the IP interface share the same command and message structure. A 0xFF byte indicates the start of a message from the MKP and separates messages from the human readable information. To receive reports over the serial interface, the Transmit mode must be enabled for communication (0x23, byte 3 bit 6). However, the serial interface will respond to commands even if the reporting feature has not been set.

IP Interface

The Simulated Multifunction Keypad has an Ethernet interface. The Ethernet interface can connect to a network either using DHCP or a static IP address. The default state is to use DHCP. The interface uses UDP messages to communicate in both directions. The default port is 49480. However, it can be configured using any desired port. The MKP will answer broadcast calls as well. If the IP address is unknown, a broadcast call (i.e. 192.168.1.255) can be used to obtain the IP address from the MKP. If a 2-byte Connection command (0x10) is sent, the MKP will respond with the full Connection message, including IP address and MAC address.

Default State

There might be situations where it is needed to set the MKP back to the default setting. Press and hold down “Z” + “SP” + “DEL” for about 5 seconds to set the unit to its default state. After 5 seconds the “LOWER MFD” label will blink blue several times. Wait until the light stops blinking and release the keys. Resetting to the default state can be useful if a static IP address has been set, and the unit cannot be reached over the Ethernet. After resetting to the default state, the unit will be back in DHCP mode.