PAA20+ Automation Adapter
PAA20+ Cinema Automation Adapter
CinemaNext's PAA20+ Automation Adapter makes it easy to interface digital cinema playback equipment with existing cinema control systems for fully automated presentations. By converting control commands from DCI servers into contact closures, the PAA20+ enables cinemas to automate lighting, masking, curtains, 3D filters, audio processors, and other auxiliary systems in perfect synchronisation with playback.
What Is the PAA20+ and How Does It Work?
The PAA20+ is a cinema automation adapter that converts control commands received via Ethernet and RS-232 from DCI servers, Theatre Management Systems, or other devices into contact closures. These input and output connections enable cinema equipment to control lighting, masking, 3D filters, emergency messages, and other auxiliary systems automatically, triggered directly from the digital cinema playback schedule.
The unit features 12 configurable momentary or latching outputs and 8 inputs that can be used to trigger individual automation cues. The output relays operate at a maximum current of 10A 250VAC/30VDC and can remotely switch main power circuits on and off, making the PAA20+ suitable not only for cue automation but also for equipment power management. Front panel LED indicators display the status of all inputs and outputs, ensuring system status is clearly visible, whilst push buttons allow operators to test each input and output directly.
Easy Installation and Configuration
The PAA20+ is designed for straightforward installation in a standard 19-inch rack mount, occupying a single rack unit. Rear panel connectors allow easy wiring to cinema equipment, and the unit is fully configurable through a simple web interface, requiring no specialist programming knowledge. Beyond digital cinema, the PAA20+ is valid for any other application requiring automated contact closures, extending its usefulness beyond the projection booth.
Rear Panel Connections
The PAA20+ provides comprehensive connectivity for cinema automation. General purpose inputs comprise 8 opto-isolated low-voltage inputs with screw connectors using 24V logic. General purpose outputs comprise 12 configurable relay outputs with screw connectors, offering normally closed and normally open contacts rated to 10A VDC maximum. A 24V/1A output is available for auxiliary input and output circuits. Serial connectivity uses an RS-232 D-sub 9 female connector, whilst network connection is provided via RJ-45 10Base-T.
The connection architecture allows the PAA20+ to sit between the digital cinema server and booth equipment, receiving commands over serial and network connections whilst distributing contact closures to theatre lights, screen masking, curtains, 3D systems, audio processors, and advertising systems.
Advanced Features
The PAA20+ is fully configurable through its web interface, with the ability to save and restore configuration files for straightforward backup and replication across multiple units. New features can be included on demand, allowing the adapter to adapt to evolving cinema requirements. Test buttons enable manual activation of each input and output for commissioning and troubleshooting, and input and output LED indicators provide clear visual status indication throughout operation.
The web-based WebAdmin interface manages TCP/IP configuration, automation input configuration, automation output configuration, advanced configuration, remote control, and firmware updates, giving technical staff complete control over the adapter's behaviour from any networked device.
Technical Specifications
The PAA20+ is built on an industrial chassis for 1U 19-inch rack mounting, with all connectors on the rear panel. Power requirements are 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz, 35W. The unit measures 483 x 128.5 x 44 mm (19.02" x 5.06" x 1.73") and weighs 2.5 kg. Environmental operating conditions span 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F) with 20-80% relative humidity, non-condensing. The PAA20+ carries a one-year warranty covering parts and labour.
PAA20+: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PAA20+ automation adapter used for?
The PAA20+ interfaces digital cinema playback equipment with existing cinema control systems, converting control commands from DCI servers, TMS, or other devices into contact closures. This enables fully automated presentations, controlling lighting, screen masking, curtains, 3D filters, emergency messages, audio processors, and other auxiliary systems in synchronisation with playback.
How does the PAA20+ connect to a digital cinema server?
The PAA20+ receives control commands via Ethernet (RJ-45 10Base-T) and RS-232 serial (D-sub 9 female connector) from DCI servers, Theatre Management Systems, or other devices. It sits between the server and booth equipment, translating these commands into relay contact closures that trigger connected cinema systems.
How many inputs and outputs does the PAA20+ have?
The PAA20+ features 8 opto-isolated low-voltage inputs (screw connectors, 24V logic) and 12 configurable relay outputs (screw connectors, normally closed and normally open contacts). The output relays are rated to 10A 250VAC/30VDC maximum, allowing them to switch main power circuits on and off. A 24V/1A output is also provided for auxiliary circuits.
Can the PAA20+ control equipment power?
Yes. The PAA20+ output relays operate at up to 10A 250VAC/30VDC and can be used to remotely switch main power circuits on and off. This makes the adapter suitable for automated power management of booth equipment in addition to triggering standard automation cues.
How is the PAA20+ configured?
The PAA20+ is fully configurable through a simple web-based WebAdmin interface accessible from any networked device, requiring no specialist programming knowledge. The interface manages TCP/IP settings, automation input and output configuration, advanced configuration, remote control, and firmware updates. Configuration files can be saved and restored for easy backup and replication across multiple units.
Can the PAA20+ inputs and outputs be tested manually?
Yes. The PAA20+ includes test push buttons that allow operators to manually activate and test each input and output. Front panel LED indicators display the status of all inputs and outputs, providing clear visual confirmation during commissioning, troubleshooting, and normal operation.
What are the power and installation requirements for the PAA20+?
The PAA20+ installs in a standard 19-inch rack, occupying a single rack unit (1U), with all connectors on the rear panel for easy wiring. Power requirements are 100-240 VAC, 50-60 Hz, 35W. The unit measures 483 x 128.5 x 44 mm and weighs 2.5 kg, operating in conditions from 0°C to 40°C with 20-80% non-condensing humidity.
Can the PAA20+ be used for non-cinema applications?
Yes. Whilst designed for digital cinema automation, the PAA20+ is valid for any other application requiring automated contact closures. Its configurable inputs and outputs, relay switching capability, and web-based control make it suitable for a range of automation tasks beyond the projection booth.
What warranty does the PAA20+ include?
The PAA20+ comes with a one-year warranty covering both parts and labour. Specifications are subject to change without prior notice, and new features can be added on demand through firmware updates.
Why Choose the CinemaNext PAA20+?
The PAA20+ reflects CinemaNext's deep expertise in cinema automation, providing a reliable, flexible bridge between digital cinema servers and the auxiliary systems that create a complete automated presentation. With 12 configurable outputs, 8 inputs, power-switching capability, and simple web-based configuration, the PAA20+ suits everything from single-screen independents to large multiplex installations.
Whether you're automating a new digital cinema installation, integrating auxiliary systems with an existing server, or managing booth equipment power, the PAA20+ delivers straightforward, dependable automation. To learn more about integrating the PAA20+ into your cinema, contact your local CinemaNext team for configuration guidance and installation support.