Global Caché Global Connect — User Guide

User guide for the Global Caché Global Connect — a modular connectivity platform that extends control-system reach across IR, serial (RS232/485), relay, sensor input, HDMI switching, and networking, all in one scalable, rack-mountable chassis.

Overview

Global Connect is Global Caché's modular family of connectivity products, built to extend the reach of any control system — from legacy hardware-based systems to leading-edge cloud-based control software. Each module has its own IP address and individual web configuration pages for easy setup and advanced addressability. Global Connect adds scalable I/O with customizable configuration, plus new capabilities including a Raspberry Pi expansion slot and HDMI switching that were not available on earlier Global Caché products.

The system is compatible with drivers written for earlier Global Caché products, as long as the underlying functionality exists on Global Connect.

Product Architecture & Chassis Options

Global Connect is modular — each module occupies 1, 2, or 3 slots depending on type, and factory-assembled combinations are available. Chassis sizes include:

• 19" freestanding enclosure — 10 module slots
• 19" rack mount enclosure — 10 module slots
• 15" freestanding enclosure — 10 module slots
• 10.5" freestanding enclosure — 7 module slots
• 7.5" freestanding enclosure — 5 module slots
• 6" freestanding enclosure — 4 module slots
• 4.5" freestanding enclosure — 3 module slots

Discovering Modules on the Network

When first connected, or after a factory reset, each module obtains an IP address via DHCP. Download and run the free iHelp utility from globalcache.com/downloads to discover any Global Caché units on the network and view their IP and MAC addresses. Once the IP is known, load the module's configuration pages by typing that address into a browser.

Network Modules

Every Global Connect unit includes a network module, which also supplies power to the entire chassis (5V–24V DC input; a 10W supply is suitable for most units, but a 5V 20W supply is required if a Raspberry Pi module is installed).

Network Settings — DHCP & Static IP

Modules support DHCP (default) or static IP assignment. Without a DHCP server, modules take a predetermined static IP based on their position in the chassis: the module next to the network module takes 192.168.1.71, subsequent modules take .72, .73, and so on.

Because many control apps expect a stable IP, a DHCP reservation (recommended) or static IP assignment is advised. DHCP reservations are made in the router by pairing the module's MAC address with a fixed IP. Static IP assignment is configured on the module's Network Settings page (disable DHCP, then enter IP, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS). Mixing DHCP and static assignments on the same network can cause conflicts if not done carefully — DHCP reservations are the suggested approach for all but advanced users. If an IP conflict occurs, factory default the module to recover.

GCHMX3 — HDMI 3x1 Switching Module

Provides network-controlled switching between 3 HDMI sources up to UHD 4K at 60Hz, with HDMI-CEC injection for command/control of connected devices and HDCP 2.2 support.

• Ports: 3 inputs, 1 output
• Bandwidth: 18Gbps
• 4K Resolutions: UHD 4K 60Hz at 4:4:4 8-bit, 4:2:2 8/10/12-bit, 4:2:0 8/10/12-bit
• Chassis slots: 2

CEC allows control commands to pass over the HDMI connection, giving control systems access to functions typically only available via a physical remote. The switch also detects whether connected HDMI devices are powered on or in standby. Switching, plus turning off transmission entirely, is configured via the HDMI Settings page.

GCIR3 — Infrared (IR) Control Module

Controls any device with an IR remote; ports can alternately be configured as Sensor Inputs for voltage presence, contact closure, or composite video sensing (using iTach sensor cables).

• Ports: 3x IR outputs/sensor inputs
• Included cables: 3x IR emitters, 1x IR blaster
• IR output frequency: 20KHz–500KHz; learner frequency: 20KHz–200KHz
• Chassis slots: 1

IR emitters are short-range (~1"/2.5cm) and must be placed directly on the target device's IR receiver window. IR blasters are long-range (up to 35 ft/10m), non-visible, and directional — point them at the device's receiver. On transmission, the lightpipe above the IR port blinks (visible emitters also blink red).

Obtaining IR codes: Global Caché's Control Tower (globalcache.com/controltower) is a cloud IR code database updated quarterly. If a device isn't listed, try similar codesets from the same manufacturer (many reuse codes across models), use the built-in iLearn utility to learn codes directly from the OEM remote, or convert 3rd-party Pronto Hex codes using iConvert.

Troubleshooting IR: A successful transmission returns a completeir response (visible in iTest's ASCII response field); error responses point to a bad IR code or format (see iTest's Error Code chart). The repeat value in a sendir command controls how many times a code is transmitted — Sony devices commonly require a repeat value of 3. To test whether a remote is IR or RF, cover it completely with your hand and try a command: if it still works, it's RF, not IR.

GCSL232 — RS232 Serial Control Module

• Ports: 1x male DB9
• Baud rate: 300–115200
• Flow control: Hardware or none
• Parity: None, even, or odd
• Data/Stop bits: 8 data bits; 1 or 2 stop bits
• Chassis slots: 1

The GCSL232's male (DTE) DB9 pinout: Pin 1 — no connection; Pin 2 — Receive (Rx); Pin 3 — Transmit (Tx); Pin 4 — DTR; Pin 5 — Ground; Pin 6 — no connection; Pin 7 — RTS; Pin 8 — CTS; Pin 9 — no connection. Use a Female-to-Female null-modem cable for male connected devices, or a Female-to-Male straight-through cable for female connected devices.

GCRL3A — Relay Control Module (6 Relays)

• Ports: 6x SPST relays, Normally Open
• Maximum rating: 250V AC, 30V DC, or 6 Amps
• Wire gauge: 14–30 AWG
• Chassis slots: 2

Relays are switched via the web interface's Relay Settings page. To confirm actuation, watch the lightpipe above the relay port (on when relay is on), or perform a continuity test with a multimeter across the disconnected relay terminals — never test with voltage applied.

GCRPI — Raspberry Pi Module

An optional Raspberry Pi 3B/3B+ mount for rack-mounted Global Connect units, occupying 3 chassis slots. Rack-accessible ports include 1x RJ45 Ethernet and 4x USB 2.0; other ports include GPIO header, CSI camera port, DSI display port, 4-pole stereo/composite video, micro SD, and built-in WiFi/Bluetooth.

The Raspberry Pi can run Linux or Windows IoT Core, enabling partner-developed automation software, cloud connectivity to IoT platforms, or full control-system functionality (automations, macros, triggers) directly on the module.

Factory Default

To factory default a module: locate the first (left-most) lightpipe on the module and press and hold for approximately 10 seconds until all lightpipes begin rapidly flashing, indicating the unit is ready to reset. Release to complete the reset. Because Global Connect is modular, each module must be factory defaulted individually.

Manufacturer

Global Caché, 160 East California Street, PO Box 1659, Jacksonville, Oregon 97530. Phone: 541-899-4800. www.globalcache.com. For setup, TCP/HTTP APIs, and additional documentation, see the Global Connect Quick Start and Global Connect APIs guides at globalcache.com/downloads.