NETWORKING
Interconnection between the network computer and the speakers is very straightforward using twisted pair cable and simple connectors. The RS485 interface operates on a shared bus so that a single computer can control any amplifier on the bus; enabling it to also gather status information from any device on that bus. Each VNET™ module contains a unique address so that no user input will be required to configure network nodes.
Every VNET™ loudspeaker controls its own DSP functions, so any unforeseen failure would be isolated to only that particular ‘node’. As only data to control setup functions and ongoing system diagnostics is carried over the network audio will be delivered. RS-485 cable is used for sending serial data, using a twisted pair to send and receive information to a high number of nodes over very long distances. This differential signal is very robust, while RS-485 is one of the most popular communications methods used in industrial applications where its noise immunity and long-distance capability are a perfect fit.
VNET™ supports ‘Free Network Topology’, allowing cabinets to be ‘daisy chained’, linked in a ‘star’ configuration or in any combination of both. Network connections between nodes are via high quality, rugged Neutrik ‘ethercon’ connectors, which are compatible with standard RJ45 plugs. Node connections are made using standard RJ45 connectors and CAT5 cable. Speakers identified on the network set up screen have factory default names, which can be edited by the user to reflect their actual location on the network. They can be physically located on the network by selecting the ‘Flash’ function to activate an LED mounted on the front of the loudspeaker
The loudspeakers are fully calibrated at the factory, avoiding the need to input the correct speaker management settings or dynamics at the point of install. This frees the installer to concentrate instead on room measurement and system optimisation.
System commissioning and ongoing venue network control, incorporating real time diagnostics of electronics and drive unit, are all managed by the exclusive VNET™ software package.
Supplied with each unit, this intuitive Windows tool controls all of the critical install, commissioning and performance monitoring functions. A standard wireless LAN-to-serial bridge can be used to communicate with the network, allowing the commissioning engineer to sit in the auditorium communicating from a laptop on 802.11b
During normal operation the speakers on the network will appear as minimised panels in the form of a status monitor icon (Monicon) on the computer screen. These are laid out to reflect the physical layout of the speakers within the venue so that the user can monitor system status and component condition at a glance. The minimised panels can be expanded to reveal highly detailed information in real time:
- Input clip indicator
- Two output limiter bar graph meter
- Heat sink temperature bar graph meter
- Amplifier clip indicators (HF & LF on full range units)
- Transducer Failure Indicators (HF & LF on full range units)
- Amplifier protect status indicator