ELK-M1XIP FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The ELK-M1XIP is the new IP network interface for the ELK M1 Gold system. It replaces the ELK-M1XEP and provides updated network functionality while maintaining compatibility with existing M1 systems and third-party integrations.

This post addresses some of the most frequently asked questions about the M1XIP and the differences between the M1XIP and M1XEP.

Why did ELK replace the M1XEP with the M1XIP?

A key component used in the M1XEP was discontinued by the manufacturer with no suitable replacement available. This required ELK to develop a new IP interface. Rather than simply redesigning the existing M1XEP, we took the opportunity to update and improve the device and its network services.

What are the major differences between the M1XEP and M1XIP?

The M1XIP provides several changes and improvements compared with the M1XEP:

• New hardware design: The M1XIP has a larger footprint, measuring approximately 6″ long x 3″ wide x 0.6875″ thick.
• ElkConnect Proxy support: The M1XIP can utilize the free ElkConnect Proxy for remote connections. This eliminates the need to configure port forwarding when using the ElkConnect Proxy.
• Time synchronization: The M1XIP no longer requires a separate network time server. Time updates are provided through the ElkConnect Proxy.
• Email service: The M1XIP no longer allows the use of a third-party email account or mail server. It uses the free ElkConnect Mail service for sending email notifications. No separate email account is required, and email configuration remains available through RP.
• SMS messaging: The M1XIP does not support email-to-SMS text messaging. Mobile carriers have been discontinuing support for email-to-SMS gateways. Legacy email providers and carrier gateways may continue to work with the M1XEP for a limited period, but carrier support for this functionality is being phased out.
• Dynamic DNS: DDNS services are no longer offered by the M1XIP. For remote connectivity, this functionality has been replaced by the ElkConnect Proxy option.
  • Note: We are working to implement DDNS with the M1XIP. You will see this in a update coming soon. 

Why is it called the M1XIP?

ELK part numbers follow a standard naming convention. In M1XIP:

X = Expansion Module
IP = IP Interface

Therefore, M1XIP identifies the product as the IP interface expansion module for the M1 platform.

Is an update to ELK-RP required to configure the M1XIP?

Yes. ELK-RP3 is being released to provide configuration and programming support for the M1XIP.

Do I need an ElkConnect account to use the ElkConnect Proxy?

No. An ElkConnect account is not required to use the ElkConnect Proxy with RP. However, your RP installation must be enrolled with the ElkConnect Proxy. In RP, navigate to:

Setup > Options > ElkConnect Proxy

Enter your email address and complete the enrollment process. Enrollment is required only once for each new RP installation.

Is a specific version of M1 firmware required to use the M1XIP?

No. The M1XIP maintains the same M1 firmware compatibility as the M1XEP.

Will third-party applications such as M1 Cloud, eKeypad, and Connect ONE work with the M1XIP?

Yes. Third-party applications that currently communicate with the M1 through the M1XEP can communicate with the M1XIP in the same manner, with improvements to connection management provided by the new M1XIP architecture.

Are different third-party integration drivers required for the M1XIP?

No. Existing third-party integration drivers, including integrations for platforms such as Control4 and Crestron, use the same M1 integration protocol and do not require separate M1XIP-specific drivers.

Can you connect to M1 with 3rd party applications using the ElkConnect Proxy? 

No. RP3 is the only application that is able to utilize the ElkConnect Proxy with the M1XIP.

Please feel free to ask any questions or voice any concerns here, we are always open to hear feedback!

For additional information please visit http://www.elkproducts.com. If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at 800-797-9355 or email us at techsupport@elkproducts.com.