8

Chapter 1 Basic Control Surface Setup 17
Connecting Control Surfaces via Networking Ports
A handful of devices are connected via the network (LAN) ports of your Macintosh,
using a single, standard (CAT5) networking cable. Most devices connected in this way
also incorporate audio I/O, and digital audio converters, plus built-in MIDI ports—
making the addition of these peripherals a simple, single cable (and driver) installation.
As with FireWire and USB, it is recommended that such devices are directly connected
to the computer, rather than through a network hub or switch.
Connecting MIDI Control Surfaces
If your control surface has MIDI input and output ports, you can connect it to a MIDI
interface, and connect the MIDI interface to your computer. MIDI interfaces are typically
connected to your computer via the USB or FireWire connection protocols. MIDI uses
separate ports for input and output, and you must connect both the MIDI input and
output to use a MIDI control surface with Logic Express. The following diagram
illustrates a typical setup using MIDI input and output:
It is recommended that you do not “daisy-chain” other MIDI devices via MIDI thru to the
MIDI in or out ports used by control surfaces. Daisy-chaining can result in errors and
other problems, due to the amount of data being transmitted in real time.
Optional Footswitches and Pedals
Some control surfaces allow you to connect footswitches or pedals as additional
controllers. If your control surface features suitable connectors, you may connect
optional foot switches to remotely control playback and other functions. This frees your
hands for other controls, and can also be helpful when using guitars or other
instruments that require two-handed playing.
Computer
MIDI
interface
Out port In port
Out portIn port
Control surface