What is the RS232c for on my AV receiver?

[Tumatawhero]

Could someone tell me what the RS232c connection is for on the back of my receiver? I have the Marantz SR-5500: 7.1 AV RECEIVER.

 

[highfigh]

It's for controlling it via some kind of system controller, like Crestron, AMX, Universal Control's MSC-400, etc. It would use all discreet commands for this.

 

[Davemcc]

That's for discrete external remote control. It's generally used for whole home automation or remote control systems where you want to hide the equipment in another room, a closed cabinet or a closet.

 

[GlocksRock]

It can also be used to connect your receiver to a PC via a null modem cable, for firmware updates, or programming it.