CobraNet | | |
Audio signal or computer | Network cabling does | Ensure Ethernet cabling meets |
communication not functioning | not meet specification | IEEE 802.3u specifications for |
or not functioning correctly | | 100BASE-T networking. |
Audio signal or computer | CM-1 Interface Card | Replace with a known good CM-1 |
communication not functioning | malfunctioning | Interface Card to determine if the |
or not functioning correctly | | removed card is faulty. |
Other CobraNet problems | Network or digital audio | Refer to either IEEE 100BASE-T or |
| | not properly implemented Peak Audio |
| | documentation to troubleshoot |
| | network or digital audio difficulties. |
8.3 EIA-485 Network Notes
EIA-485 network cabling has certain limitations that these notes summarize. Improper set-up of an EIA-485 network can result in faulty or no operation. To use EIA-485 network configurations or cabling schemes not addressed in this manual, consult a qualified network professional.
8.3.1 CABLING NOTES:
1. Single Module or module cluster:
One end of the EIA-485 cable is connected to the computer’s EIA-485 port and the other to the EIA- 485 connector on the module or on one of the modules in a cluster.
2. Multiple Modules:
One end of the EIA-485 cable is connected to the computer’s EIA-485 port. The cable is then connected daisy-chain fashion to multiple modules or clusters. This means to connect the EIA-485 cable from the computer to a module or cluster, then to loop it to additional modules or clusters. Use the supplied RJ-45 Signal Link Cables to link modules within a cluster using the Signal Link jacks. This cable also interconnects the audio between the modules.
3.DO use an EIA-485 hub when separate EIA-485 home runs to the computer are needed because of cable routing constraints. Note: EIA-485 hubs often contain an RS-232 to EIA-485 converter.
4.DO use an EIA-485 hub to extend the length of the EIA-485 cabling beyond 1000 ft / 300 m. Literature about EIA-485 claims maximum cable lengths of 4,000 ft. However, the fastest data rates for a DSAi network, assuming ideal network conditions, limit the maximum to 2,800 ft / 850 m. Performance variations for the network cable, connectors, EIA-485 drivers, and several other variables can and often do further reduce this length. Therefore, this is the maximum recommended length to ensure reliable communications.
5.DO use an EIA-485 hub to connect the EIA-485 network to more than 31 DSAi Clusters.
Each module within a multi module DSAi Cluster counts as one DSAi Cluster if they are all connected DIRECTLY to the EIA-485 network using the EIA-485 Phoenix connectors. If the modules within a multi-module DSAi Cluster are inter-connected via the Signal Link connectors, and thus only one is connected directly to the EIA-485 network, then this counts as only one DSAi cluster.
6. DO NOT connect the EIA-485 cabling to the modules in a star fashion.
This means do not home-run an EIA-485 cable from each module or cluster to the computer.
7. DO NOT connect the EIA-485 cabling between modules in a star fashion.
This means do not run an EIA-485 cable from one module or cluster to more than one other module or cluster.