AE-OPT-354 allows the user to send time or data to multiple displays throughout facility. However, up to 50 AE series devices with this option can be connected to a standard RS232 port, at distances up to 2000ft away. Signal drivers are available to provide systems with unlimited numbers of displays. This option allows AE series displays to communicate with host computers, process computers (PLC's), multi-media system controllers, and other equipment with RS232 ports. Applications include computer controlled master clock systems, time zone clocks, time to next show timers, process indicators, and message displays. A simple 10 byte message is required to send data or control information to the display. It provides addressing, mode selection, six characters of data, and display attributes.