Controller Synchronization

A controller and firing module must sync to each other to enable communication and test continuity and signal strength. Syncing also provides security when there are multiple 18R2 Controllers on a site by preventing a module from being fired from the wrong controller. The firing module will only respond to the synced controller; you can change the controller for a module at any time, as many times as you like.

Sync 18R2 to a Module

1. Insert key into the 18R2 key switch and turn clockwise to ON position to power on the controller 
2. Insert key into the module key switch and turn to the TEST or ARM position to power on the module. 
3. Allow both the 18R2 and module to complete the startup sequence. The startup sequence is complete when the device displays the channel, such as, “c00". 
4. Press and hold the SYNC button on the 18R2 for a couple of seconds to enter programming mode. A “P” displays; release the SYNC button. Perform the same process on the device being synced: press and hold the SYNC button until a “P” displays on the 7-segment display and then release the button.
   Note: This step is only required for firmware version 3.0.3 or greater.
5. When both devices display “P,” press and hold the SYNC button simultaneously on each device for a couple of seconds until the SYNC indicator light rapidly blinks on both devices. Release the SYNC buttons.
6. The module will restart automatically; the controller will not restart and still displays “P.” Turn the 18R2 key to OFF and then clockwise to ON position to restart the controller  The devices are synced after the controller restarts and both SYNC indicator lights flash.

Note: If you see Er5, this indicates the firmware versions do not match between the 18R2 and device. See our Error Code Reference Guide for more information.

Bulk Sync Modules (18M and 6M ONLY)

Sync multiple modules individually using the method described above or bulk sync many modules at once to complete this step faster. Power off firing modules to begin the bulk sync.

1. Insert key into the 18R2 key switch and turn clockwise to ON position to power on the controller.
2. Allow the controller to complete the startup sequence; the sequence is complete when the controller shows the current channel, such as, “c00”. 
3. Press and hold the SYNC button on the 18R2 for a couple of seconds until a “P” is displayed. 
4. Press and hold the SYNC button on the module, turn the key to TEST or ARM. The device will automatically go into program mode, displaying a “P.” For the 6M the process is the same except you will place the module mode switch on the right-hand side of the module into TEST or ARM.
5. Continue the previous step on each module until all modules display “P”.
6. Press and hold the SYNC button on the 18R2 and one of the modules at the same time until the SYNC indicator light rapidly flashes on both devices. When both SYNC indicator lights are flashing, release the SYNC buttons. The module will restart automatically; the controller will not restart and still displays “P.” 
7. Press and hold the SYNC button on the 18R2 along with the SYNC button on the second device until both SYNC indicator lights flash. When both SYNC indicator lights are flashing, release the SYNC buttons. The module will restart automatically; the controller will not restart and still displays “P.” 
8. Continue this process for all modules you wish to sync to the 18R2.
9. Turn the 18R2 key to OFF and then clockwise to ON position to restart the controller. The devices are synced after the controller restarts and all SYNC indicator lights flash.

Note: If you press and hold the module SYNC button for too long it will re-enter program mode and display “P” instead of restarting. Simply press and hold the SYNC button on both the 18R2 and the module for a couple of seconds. The address will display on the module; release both SYNC buttons. The modules and controller are synced. 

Sync Audio Box 

1. Insert key into the 18R2 key switch and turn clockwise to ON position to power on the controller.
2. Power on the Audio Box by flipping the switch in the lower-left corner up. A red power light will show the unit is on.
3. Press and hold the SYNC button on the 18R2 for a couple of seconds until a “P” is displayed. Release the SYNC button.
4. Press and hold the orange SYNC button at the bottom of the Audio Box for a couple of seconds; the LED above the SYNC button will flash once, release the SYNC button and the LED indicator will remain solid.
5. The 18R2 and Audio Box are in program mode.
6. Simultaneously press and hold the SYNC button on each device for a couple of seconds. The SYNC LED lights will flash rapidly on both units, release both buttons.
7. Turn the 18R2 key to OFF and then clockwise to ON position to restart the controller. The devices are synced after the controller restarts and both SYNC indicator lights flash.

To unsync your modules from your 18R2 remote please see How do I unsync the 18R2 from my modules?