5.2.4 CABLING
ACAT-5 or better cable with RJ-45-compatible connectors is required for each module.
NOTE: Ethernet cable length is limited by specification to 328 ft / 100 m. Longer runs are possible using network hubs or switches as repeaters or by conversion to fiber optic cable.
5.2.5 AUDIO/COMPUTER INTERFACE
Audio and RS-232 (for DSAPilot control signals) must be converted to the CobraNet protocol and connected to the network via an RJ-45 Ethernet port. Products that do this are available from several manufacturers. Your choice will depend, in part, on how many and what form of audio signals (digital or analog) you need to distribute.
Manufacturers of converters include:
Peavey, QSC, Rane, Symetrix, Whirlwind, and Yamaha.
5.2.6 MODULE INTERFACE
An optional EAW CM-1 CobraNet Interface Card must be installed in the slot provided in the module. To do this, see installation instructions that accompany the CM-1.
Connect the PRIMARY RJ-45 Ethernet connector to the Ethernet cable. The SECONDARY RJ-45 Ethernet connector on the CM-1 is for connecting to a second, redundant Ethernet network. This would be designed as a back-up network that automatically takes over in the event of failure in the primary network.
The digital audio received by the CM-1 connects directly to the loud- speaker’s digital signal processing. It is converted back to analog at the inputs to the internal power amplifiers.
5.2.7 MULTIPLE MODULES
To connect multiple modules to the network, the Ethernet output on the audio/computer interface must connect to a network switch or hub. A network switch is normally recommended. The switch must have an Ethernet port for each module which also means each module in a DSAi cluster.
A CAT-5 cable is required from the Ethernet port on the CM-1 Interface Card in each module to its port on the network switch. For networks requiring cable runs longer than 328 ft / 100 m, a repeater network or fiber optic cabling is recommended. Do NOT mix hubs and switches on a repeater network. Network switches and hubs are available through most computer retailers.
5.2.8 SUPPORT FOR COBRANET / ETHERNET
See Sections 8.4 and 8.5 for support information for Ethernet and CobraNet.
