Telex 38109-977 manual Disadvantages, Cost, Complexity

input 1 --> outputs 43, 44, 45 input 3 --> output 43 program input 1 --> output 45

also inhibit the following crosspoints:

program input 1 --> output 1

Issue the following ASCII Command String to the Matrix:

IN1FI43F44F45F1IIN3FI43FINPG1FI45F

The simplified ASCII command line protocol still requires some programming to take place external to the matrix to either translate the native language of the external control system to Telex® Command Line Protocol, or to modify the internal code of the third party device to speak and understand Command Line Protocol. This effort is likely small when compared to the benefits of such tightly integrated control between systems. Now that we have outlined the advantages of matrix intercom systems over other types of systems, let’s go to the opposing viewpoint.

Disadvantages

Matrix intercom’s disadvantages over other types are pretty much the opposite of the advantages listed above. Disadvantages include size, cost and complexity. Complexity, in particular, renders them unsuitable for many applications.

Size

Here, size refers to not only the number of ports, but physical size as well. The smallest physical matrix available today is the Zeus™ matrix that is two RU in height. Add in a single RU user station and you now have a minimum of three RU of rack space required. By contrast, Telex® RTS™, AudioCom®, and RadioCom™ intercom systems (as well as some competitors) offer systems providing both a multi-channel user station and a system power supply in a single RU. Matrices with larger number of ports become correspondingly larger, physically. There are times when size is of paramount concern such as, travel packages for news crews, remote trucks, cockpits, and Manhattan.

True Story! One customer in NYC justified replacing their 15 year old matrix intercom with a newer system solely on the space and power savings (electricity and cooling), going from more than 18 racks to 2 racks of equipment and increased the number of ports in the process!

Cost

Again, somewhat related to size. If the intercom needs are small, and the complexity of requirements are not great, the overhead of having the matrix is hard to overcome. As an example, (2001 pricing) an intercom system with four users communicating over two channels can be completely for less than $1,600, using a party-line system. Given the relatively high cost of any matrix, four user stations along with a matrix would cost at least $8,000. The matrix system would have tremendous expansion and many extra features, but if that is not required, the cost is a definite negative factor.

Complexity

Complexity is quite often the major negative to matrix intercom systems. Complexity brings a whole world of issues, which can be of major consequence. I’ll start with a few examples based on our “friend” the personal computer.

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