Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to frequently asked questions about SoftControl Smart Exhibition Control System. If you have other questions, feel free to contact us through our feedback page.
What is a smart exhibition control system?
A smart exhibition control system is a solution for centralized management of various devices in exhibition halls and similar venues. It enables one-touch control of lights, projectors, audio equipment, curtains, air conditioning and other smart devices, significantly improving operational efficiency and user experience. SoftControl is a software-based smart exhibition control system that achieves traditional hardware controller functionality through visual software.
What's the difference between SoftControl and traditional hardware controllers?
SoftControl is a software-based control solution. Compared to traditional hardware controllers: 1) Lower cost - no expensive hardware procurement required; 2) More flexible - modify interfaces and add features anytime; 3) Easy to maintain - software updates are simple; 4) Wider compatibility - supports serial, TCP/UDP, PJLink, WOL and Modbus workflows. Traditional hardware controllers require custom production, complex installation, and typically cost several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, while SoftControl only costs $399 for a perpetual license.
Is SoftControl free?
SoftControl offers a free 30-day trial so you can evaluate the core workflow first. During trial, page count plus custom backgrounds and button styling are limited. Commercial deployment requires purchasing a perpetual license ($399/device) for unrestricted use, free updates and technical support.
What exhibition control software do you recommend?
When choosing smart exhibition control software, consider these factors: 1) Ease of use - does it require programming?; 2) Device compatibility - does it support your existing equipment?; 3) Cost effectiveness - one-time or recurring fees?; 4) After-sales support - is technical support available? SoftControl is recommended as a professional smart exhibition control software that meets all these criteria: no coding required with drag-and-drop visual editing, broad device compatibility, affordable perpetual licensing, and professional team support.
What devices and protocols does SoftControl support?
SoftControl currently supports serial (RS232/RS485, including TCP passthrough), TCP/UDP, PJLink, Wake-on-LAN (WOL), and Modbus TCP/RTU-over-TCP workflows. That covers many professional devices such as lighting controllers, projectors, audio systems, curtains/screens, HVAC equipment and other devices that expose one of those interfaces. The website no longer claims HTTP or infrared support.
How do I set up one-touch opening/closing?
In SoftControl, creating one-touch opening/closing is simple: 1) Go to 'Device Grouping' in the admin panel; 2) Create groups like 'Opening Scene' and 'Closing Scene'; 3) Add corresponding device commands to each group (e.g., opening: turn on all lights, start projector, lower screen; closing: turn off all devices); 4) Set appropriate delay times between commands to ensure proper device startup sequence; 5) Bind these scenes to buttons in the visual editor. The whole setup takes just minutes, no programming required.
Why can't my device connect?
Check: 1) Device communication protocol and port configuration; 2) Whether serial port is occupied by other programs; 3) Network device IP address and port accessibility; 4) Whether firewall is blocking relevant ports.
How do I backup my configuration?
Select 'Configuration Management' → 'Export Configuration' from the main menu. The system will save all configurations as a JSON file. Regular backups in a secure location are recommended.
Can I use the same license key on multiple devices?
No. License keys are bound to device IDs and each device requires an independent license. For multiple device licensing, please contact us for volume licensing discounts.
Which operating systems are supported?
Currently available for download: Windows 10+ (64-bit) and Android 8.0+ (tablet). macOS, Linux, and iOS versions are not packaged yet. If you need them, please contact us through the Feedback page.
How do I contact technical support?
Submit your questions through the 'Feedback' page and we'll respond as soon as possible. You can also contact us via email.
SoftPlayer FAQ
Does SoftPlayer offer a free trial?
Yes. SoftPlayer offers a 30-day free trial with all Standard edition features. A license is required to continue after the trial period.
Is SoftPlayer a perpetual license or subscription?
Perpetual license — buy once, use on that device forever. No annual renewals required. The license is bound to the device ID; a new license is required when switching devices.
What is the difference between Standard and Professional editions?
Standard edition supports up to 4K (3840×2160) output. Professional edition supports up to 16K (15360×8640) ultra-high resolution with multi-screen tiling, ideal for extra-large display walls or multi-screen setups.
How do I receive my license key after purchase?
The system automatically issues the license key after payment. It will be sent to the email address you provided, typically within a few minutes of successful payment. If you don't receive it, check your spam folder or query your order on the account page.
Does SoftPlayer use device binding for licenses?
Yes. Each license key is bound to a single device ID. If you need to transfer to a new machine, please contact us via the feedback page to request a migration.
SoftAgent FAQ
Is SoftAgent free?
Yes, SoftAgent is completely free to use — no payment required.
Do I need to log in to download SoftAgent?
Yes, you need a registered account to download SoftAgent. Registration is free; once logged in, you can get the latest version on the download page.
How does SoftAgent work together with SoftControl?
SoftAgent is deployed on the target host as an execution agent. It receives control commands from SoftControl and performs system-level operations: volume adjustment, power management, lock screen, Wake-on-LAN, keyboard simulation and more. The two products are complementary, not competing.
Still have questions?
If you didn't find the answer you were looking for, please visit our help center or contact us directly. We'll get back to you as soon as possible.