RS-232 Plugin

The RS-232 Plugin lets you control your screens directly via the serial RS-232 interface — the screen is not just put into standby, but actually turned on and off. This reduces energy costs and increases the lifespan of your displays.

Prerequisites

• An active viewneo subscription that includes the RS-232 Plugin
• The Display Timer Plugin must also be activated (RS-232 is an extension of it)
• An RS-232 cable to connect the player and screen
• A screen with an RS-232 interface
• The hexadecimal commands for your screen model (from the manufacturer’s operating manual)

Caution

The RS-232 Plugin is an extension of the Display Timer Plugin. Both plugins must be activated. Also check beforehand whether your screen has an RS-232 interface — this is not the case for all models.

Note

The RS-232 Plugin is a Function Plugin that must be activated separately in your subscription. You can check whether it’s included under Account > Subscription > Add-on Plans. Learn how to activate plugins in the article Activate Plugins.

Difference from the Display Timer

Feature	Display Timer	RS-232 Plugin
Control	HDMI signal on/off	Screen directly on/off via serial interface
Effect	Screen switches to standby	Screen is completely turned off
Connection	HDMI only	HDMI + RS-232 cable
Requirement	—	Display Timer Plugin + RS-232 interface on screen

Setting Up the RS-232 Plugin

Step 1: Connect the Hardware

Connect the viewneo player to the RS-232 interface of your screen using an RS-232 cable.

Step 2: Configure RS-232 Settings

After activating the plugin, you’ll find the extended RS-232 options under the Timer settings for devices or device groups.

Enter the following values:

Setting	Description
Hex Code On	The hexadecimal command to turn the screen on
Hex Code Off	The hexadecimal command to turn the screen off
Baud Rate	The transmission speed of the serial connection
Parity	The parity setting of the serial connection
Data Bits	The number of data bits per character
Stop Bits	The number of stop bits

Tip

You’ll find the hex codes and serial parameters in your screen’s operating manual. For testing hex commands, we recommend the software CoolTerm. If no data is available, contact the device manufacturer.

Step 3: Save

Click Save. The RS-232 commands will be transferred to the player along with the Display Timer schedules.

Caution

Same models in a device group: When using the RS-232 interface at the device group level, all devices in the group should use the same screen model (or at least the same manufacturer). Different models require different hex codes and serial parameters — otherwise unexpected behavior may occur.

Use Cases

Retail — Shop Window Displays

Turn off shop window displays completely at night to reduce energy costs and maximize display lifespan.

Corporate — Large-Scale Installations

Control professional displays in conference rooms and lobbies centrally via RS-232 to ensure reliable on/off switching.

Public Sector — Info Displays

Turn off info displays in government buildings or train stations completely outside operating hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the RS-232 Plugin without the Display Timer Plugin?

No. The RS-232 Plugin is an extension of the Display Timer Plugin. Both must be activated.

Where do I get the hex codes for my screen?

The hexadecimal commands for on/off can be found in your screen’s operating manual or from the manufacturer. They are often also available on the manufacturer’s support website.

What happens if I enter incorrect hex codes?

With incorrect hex codes, the screen will not respond to the commands. Generally, no damage occurs, but the screen will not be turned on or off correctly.