Tech Update



iPort/iPod Compatibility Update

This communication is to help clarify iPod-iPort feature compatibility and refers to the current iPod nano, classic, iPhone and iPod touch. Apple has made changes over time. It is important to keep these changes in mind when specifying iPort.

Please refer to the compatibility chart <inline link off 'compatibility chart' to the iPort/iPod Compatibility PDF on the support page> when selecting which iPort model to use for a given application. The chart has iPod models down the left side and iPort models across the top.

The newest iPods (3G iPhone, iPod touch and iPod nano) will not charge in any iPort model The exception is iPod classic, but the next generation classic will likely not charge. Video capability is also limited. For video access and control, use IW-5 or FS-5 with a Crestron or AMX system. Other RS-232 control systems may work as well, but the control module must be written to do so. It is up to the system programmer to write their program accordingly.

Because of all these changes, we do not recommend upgrading an existing iPort model with a feature upgrade kit. This is especially important when upgrading to RS-232 control, such from an IW-3 to an IW-4. If RS-232 control is necessary, please replace the entire iPort with an IW-4 or FS-4. Any money saved by installing a feature upgrade kit may be lost because of firmware incompatibility issues.

iPort engineering is currently working on new products that will again allow charging and simple video access. Next generation FS-21 and FS-22 along with an IW Series Main Board Upgrade are targeted for a 1st Quarter ’09 release.



iPort/iPod Compatibility Chart - 9/28/08 - PDF 104KB




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