Global Scripter

Integrated Development Environment for Extron Control Systems Programming
Key Features
  • Develop AV control system programming using clean and extensible Python 3.5
  • Designed to be used exclusively with Extron Pro Series control system
  • Extron ControlScript® library uses common AV industry terms and automates powerful control system functions
  • Develop, debug, and deploy from a single software environment
  • Start and execute projects quickly using Extron Global Scripter® modules
  • Package all resources into a single file and format designed for easy transport and management
The Extron Global Scripter
Model Version Description Part #
 Global Scripter Programming IDE 79-588-01

Global Scripter® is Extron’s powerful and versatile control system programming software. This feature-rich integrated development environment is used to program Extron Pro Series control systems, and utilizes the easy-to-learn Python scripting language. Global Scripter includes an Extron-exclusive Python library - ControlScript®, that is designed to increase the productivity of AV programmers through incorporating functions used in AV control system projects, as well as helpful documentation, reference material, and sample code. Extron built Global Scripter and the ControlScript Python libraries with programmers in mind. Working together, these components make it easier than ever to develop refined and innovative programmable control systems.

Python and the Pro Series Control Systems Platform

Python is an object-oriented programming language. Python is clean, easily readable, and editable, making it a very popular scripting language. With ample documentation available in print and on the Internet, there are numerous programming resources for novices and experts alike.

The Extron Pro Series products use a proven, multi-threaded platform designed to leverage the benefits of the Python language. As an interpreted language, Python does not require compiling and offers a quicker workflow from editing code to testing a program. Instructions are executed immediately, and functions can be added or modified at runtime. Global Scripter and the Pro Series control platform use Python version 3.5.

Working Together: Global Scripter and ControlScript

Global Scripter provides the framework for all of the necessary programming elements including file management, debugging and diagnostic tools, and the Extron ControlScript API. The ControlScript Python library handles the heavy lifting of message queuing and interfacing with low-level firmware and processes. It also manages all of the files necessary for implementing control programs, such as user interface files, sound files, data files, and the code that ties it all together.

Python Libraries with AV Programmers in Mind

Like all aspects of Global Scripter, the ControlScript API has been designed by Extron to increase the productivity of AV programmers. To help accelerate the learning process, Extron infused the Python library with familiar AV terms that make it easier to incorporate functions that are common to AV control system projects. These additions create a more efficient environment and enable programmers to concentrate on what they do best.

Use Extron Global Scripter Modules to Get Started

Extron has developed a series of Global Scripter modules that may be used with Extron programmable control systems. Based on the familiar Extron Driver library, these modules provide support for devices from a broad range of manufacturers. Modules are developed and tested to provide a consistent, standardized coding approach that makes programming more straightforward and troubleshooting more efficient.

Combining Multiple Control Processors for Larger Control Systems

Multiple control processors can be grouped and work as one big controller. Grouping the control processors will also reduce the need for long RS-232 cable runs, as the group can span several rooms instead of being limited to a single room. This feature enables easy system expansion and ideally serves advanced systems that require more control ports than are offered in a single control processor.

Automate AV Systems and Building Management Functions

Programmers can use Global Scripter and Extron control processors to support the latest BMS - Building Management System protocols, including BACnet, KNX, and DALI. Modern BMS allow for centralized monitoring and control of mechanical and electrical systems that include HVAC, lighting, power, and closed-circuit camera control.

Minimum System Requirements

  • CPU: 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster processor
  • Operating System: Windows® 10 or Windows® 11
  • RAM: 4 GB
  • HDD: 500 MB of available hard disk space
  • Display Resolution: 1280 x 1024
  • A network connection with a data transfer rate of 100Mbps
  • Microsoft .NET Framework 4.7.2

Software Access

Become a Certified Extron Authorized Programmer and access all the benefits of Global Scripter, the ControlScript API, and more.

For More Information

For more information about access to Global Scripter and Extron programming, please contact your Extron representative.