Softron GPICommander 2 is a USB-to-GPI and GPI-to-USB conversion box. Designed to pass along AppleScript-based commands to and from other computers and devices, GPICommander 2 is managed by the Mac-based GPICommander app, available via free download. GPICommander 2 works with most of Softron's other Mac-based broadcast workflow automation software. It also works with applications from other vendors, provided they can send and/or receive AppleScript. Also, by using the available SDK and writing your own code, you can directly address the hardware without employing AppleScript. The hardware is compatible with Windows; however, no software is supplied. You can control the unit by writing C code, and an API is available upon request. GPICommander 2 connects to your computer via USB and receives power through the same connection. Each of the DB-25 connector's 24 GPI inputs (open-collector type, common ground) can be assigned an AppleScript. When their contact-closure status changes, that triggers the AppleScript to run. This could, for instance, cause Softron's MovieRecorder to start recording, or the OnTheAir application could be scripted to begin its playlist. A single AppleScript can send multiple commands to multiple applications. There are also eight independent relay outputs on the "Phoenix" connector for sending GPI commands to other computers and devices. Each GPICommander 2 unit has a unique serial ID, so you can attach more devices to your host computer via USB, thereby expanding the possible inputs and/or outputs.
