News

Opus updates WCU600 touchscreen and takes flexibility and ease of use to the next level (3/6/3009)

Stand E5, CEDIA UK Expo 2009

Suggested retail price of WCU600 - £490 plus VAT
V3.0 software available from 23 June - £FOC to Certified Opus Installers

The WCU600 touchscreen was launched last year to rapturous acclaim taking Opus to the forefront of the smart home market. Now this leading manufacturer of multi-room entertainment and control systems has introduced Version 3.0 software for the WCU600, dramatically increasing its flexibility, versatility and simplicity.

This latest development benefits both installers and end users with simpler, more intuitive programming and set-up, a greater number of configuration options to suit each install, more intuitive control and the addition of several new convenience features.

Opus’ new Hotspot™ software is a key development which allows simple control of a multitude of source equipment from the convenience of the touchscreen. This displays the original on-screen user interface for the most intuitive control of a wide range of devices. Indeed some of those most likely to benefit are iPod and Apple TV customers who can now control iPods and - in the case of Apple TV - access iTunes content including HD video, music and other media from any Opus-equipped room.

This builds upon Opus’ recent ability to integrate with Windows Media Center PCs which can also be accessed via the touchscreen for enjoyment of music, movies and much more all over the home. This feature is possible thanks to Opus Navigator™ which provides seamless control of this inexpensive yet sophisticated PC.

And now, the WCU600 can also control an even greater number of third party home automation systems such as lighting, blinds, audio/video distribution, media servers, HVAC, security and CCTV making it a true smart home gateway which sets a new industry standard for performance at this price point.

Widespread improvements to the WCU600’s sophisticated software also increase the touchscreen’s functionality and include a raft of updates which benefit both installers and end-users. Programming and set-up has been improved further not only as a result of technological developments but also thanks to valuable feedback from Opus’ Certified Installer network.

New WCU600 v3 software features and benefits

* Opus Hotspot™ software allows simple control of a multitude of source equipment displaying the source’s original on-screen interface on the WCU600. Key applications include Apple TV and iPods (connected to a compatible dock)
* Convenient menu access to all key functions of the Opus and third party home automation systems and now, main and secondary menus are installer re-assignable for greater flexibility
* Full programming ability via USB port on front of keypad which allows easy set-up and customisation now compatible with all European, Russian and Arabic languages.
* Movement of all screen buttons is now even easier thanks to a new simplified drag-and-drop option
* Source function buttons (Play, Skip etc) can now be directly programmed with IR for easier programming and set-up without the need for an Opus LRC500 learning remote
* New iPhone iPod touch configuration feature automatically updates iPhone/iPod touch to match WCU600 interface (iPhone iPod touch Application expected to launch July 2009)
* Addition of IR and basic IR macros to main menu source buttons enables simultaneous control of connected devices to improve user control. e.g. selecting Video Server source on the Opus WCU600 can now provide IR commands to power-up connected screen and select correct input
* Another additional macro enables an All-Off command which switches all head-end sources to Standby from any WCU600 touchscreen for improved energy saving
* Improved control and flexibility of comfort products e.g. blinds, heating, HVAC thanks to new comfort screen which provides a greater number of options to suit user preference.

Other key WCU600 features and benefits

* Video input for playback on LCD keypad display of source equipments’ own on-screen interface
* Opus Navigator™ interface enables mouse-like control of Windows Media Center PCs when used with Opus Media Center Link (MCL600)
* High contrast, 3.5” backlit high-resolution touchscreen display customisable for personalisation of backgrounds, buttons and colours. Wide viewing angle +/-60°
* Wide-angle infra red receiver allows full remote control of all system functions and control of third party source components connected to Opus MCU500. Additional connector for an external IR receiver is also available
* Door entry system and CCTV cameras can be controlled and viewed on keypad
* Extensive range of magnetic interchangeable faceplate finishes to suit any environment: white, off-white, piano black, chrome, brushed metal and gold
* Fully backwards compatible with existing Opus 500 systems and retro fittable to replace existing WCU500 keypads
* Self contained fixings for plasterboard and solid walls for simple installation

For the installer, the WCU600’s key advantage has always been its ease of installation and set-up. Now improved even further, the concealed front-mounted USB port makes customisation of each keypad – using a laptop – an object lesson in simplicity. Opus Certified Installers can download Version 3.0 software from a dedicated Opus extranet for easy programming which is now even easier with features like drag-and-drop, easier source function programming and installer re-assignable main/secondary menu buttons which can be tailored to each project and can include bespoke graphics and backgrounds.

In order for Opus to realise its full potential in every installation requires the implementation of a sophisticated interface in each zone and to this end, Opus’ legacy WCU500 keypad has now been completely replaced with the WCU600 touchscreen. For the end user this means that Opus now offers a seamless, home-wide touchscreen experience at a highly accessible price. An extraordinary capability to integrate with the world’s hottest technology from Apple and Microsoft as well as media servers lighting, security and HVAC systems make Opus a uniquely attractive proposition.

www.opus.eu