Russound IPK-1 Single-Gang IP Keypad — Product Manual

Product manual for the Russound IPK-1 Single-Gang IP Keypad — a wired, PoE-powered keypad that provides dedicated wall-mounted control of a Russound MCA-Series, MBX-PRE, or MBX-AMP audio zone.

Overview

The IPK-1 connects via a single Ethernet (PoE) cable to the same network as your Russound audio system. After pairing it with a room/zone through Russound's Web Config tool, the keypad's buttons control the most commonly needed audio commands plus immediate volume access — a dedicated always-available alternative to pulling out your phone and navigating the Russound app. The status LED is designed to stay off when the audio system is not in use, so it won't light up a dark bedroom at night; volume LEDs only illuminate when volume is actively adjusted.

Compatible with: MCA-66, MCA-88, MBX-PRE, MBX-AMP.

Installation

1. Insert the CAT5 PoE cable (connected to the same network as your Russound system) into the rear of the IPK-1. It will power on and automatically check for firmware updates. The status LED blinks yellow when ready for configuration.
2. Using the supplied screws, attach the IPK-1 securely to the wall box or P-ring, then attach the appropriate Decora® wall-plate to the front (wall-plate not included, purchased separately).
3. Pair the IPK-1 with its Russound audio zone via the audio product's Web Config page: go to the target zone's Zone Setup section, then Keypad Pairing, and select "Start" (on MCA-Series devices, go to Zone Setup then "Edit" to reach Pairing). This sends a signal to all connected IPK-1 keypads to enter Pairing Mode. On the IPK-1 you want to pair, press and hold Favorite 1 and Favorite 2 simultaneously for 2 seconds, or until the status LED blinks twice.

Changing Button/Insert Color

The IPK-1 ships with both white and black buttons and Decora inserts. With the IPK-1 removed from the wall, use a small flat screwdriver to gently press each of the four locking tabs inward until the Decora insert cover releases. Separate the rubber button insert from the button panel and transfer it to the new-color button panel, then snap the new panel back onto the IPK-1 until all four locking tabs click into place.

Operation

• Zone Favorite buttons (1-4): Press to play a pre-stored Zone Favorite. Press and hold to store the currently playing selection as a Favorite. Favorites are zone-based and separate from those accessed via the Russound App. Note: content cast via Chromecast or AirPlay cannot be stored as a Favorite.
• Skip Back: Press once to return to the beginning of the current track. Press twice quickly to play the previous track.
• Skip Forward: Press to skip to the next track.
• Volume Up/Down: Press to adjust volume in small increments; press and hold to ramp quickly. Volume LEDs briefly show the current level.
• Play/Pause: Toggles between play and pause.
• Power (MCA-Series zones): Toggles the zone on/off. If a source is playing when turned on, playback resumes immediately; pressing a Favorite button will auto-select the source and start playback. Press and hold to send an "All Off" command to all compatible Russound devices.
• Power (MBX-Series): Press to stop currently playing music. Press and hold to send "All Off" to all compatible Russound devices.

Status LED Reference

Storing & Playing Favorites

While playing audio in the room, press and hold the desired Favorite button (1-4) briefly until the status LED flashes once — this stores the currently playing selection. Press/tap a Favorite button to play its stored content. If content can't be stored (e.g. Chromecast/AirPlay casts), use the Russound app instead, which will provide additional messaging.

Troubleshooting

• Unresponsive keypad: Press and hold Volume Down and Power simultaneously for 5 seconds until the status LED turns solid yellow to trigger a reboot. The IPK-1 can also be rebooted by cycling PoE power (many network switches support this remotely).
• Relocating to a different room/zone: Re-activate pairing mode in WebConfig and re-pair the IPK-1 with its new zone. Un-configured keypads blink yellow twice per second after the 60-second pairing window ends.
• Factory reset: With the IPK-1 removed from the wall (and powered via PoE), press and hold the recessed factory reset switch behind the faceplate (left side) for 10 seconds until the status LED flashes red 4 times.

Warranty

Visit russound.com for warranty information. Russound, 200 International Drive, Suite 155, Portsmouth, NH 03801. Tel: 603.659.5170.