User Guide

AXlink Wiring Considerations

This document describes AXlink, wiring topologies, electrical timing and characteristics,

compatible cable types, wiring distance calculations, and wiring diagram examples. AXlink is a

proprietary communication protocol designed by AMX to control up to 255 devices with a Central

Controller using common copper conductors.

The AXlink Protocol

The AXlink communication protocol supports multiple wiring topologies, including star, daisy-

chain, home run, or any combination. AXlink devices are electrically wired in parallel and require a

minimum of three conductors for signal/power ground, AXM, and AXP. An optional fourth

conductor can be used for 12 VDC power distribution. The AXM and AXP AXlink data signals are

differential and require one pair of twisted conductors.

The wiring distance specifications describe the total wiring distance between external devices and

the Central Controller. For example, FIG. 1 shows a star wiring topology, and the total wiring

length is 1,200 feet (200 + 300 + 300 + 400 = 1200).

The wiring distances for the AXB-MPE Master Port Expander and AXB-SPE Slave Port Expander

devices are calculated on a per-port basis. The ports on the AXB-MPE and AXB-SPE devices are

isolated and electrically independent with respect to each other.

FIG. 1 Star wiring topology example