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 $299 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 ($299/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.
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.