Background

For the Windows platform, SPE provide software that enables their Expert range of RF amplifiers to be managed using a serial interface. As a version of this software is not available for macOS, those with a need to manage their amplifiers from macOS were unable to do so without also having a Windows computer to run the SPE software.

Expert Controller Plus is a macOS application that remedies that situation; it provides many of the capabilities found in the SPE software but additionally enables:

• the simultaneous management of multiple amplifiers
• the simultaneous operation of multiple amplifiers in RF Combiner groups
• support for all SPE Expert amplifiers starting with the 1K-FA Series II
• TCP/IP network and RS-232 / USB interfacing
• Modbus TCP for local/remote control applications
• use of Apple Voiceover to vocalise amplifier status and user interface elements.

Expert Controller Plus is an evolution of Expert Controller. It was conceived as a solution to two features often requested by users: multiple simultaneous amplifier support and support for the Expert 1K-FA. Expert Controller Plus is a, from the ground up, rewrite of its predecessor with a new design to achieve the efficiencies necessary to manage multiple amplifiers simultaneously.

Expert Controller Plus provides a similar user experience to the SPE, Windows application and the front-panel of an Expert amplifier. Its user interface should be recognisable and thus familiar to amateurs, easing its adoption.