Eclipse HX-PiCo User Guide PN: 399G061 Rev: A 08/22/13
Document Reference Clear-Com Eclipse HX-PiCo User Guide PN: 399G061 Rev: A Legal Disclaimers Copyright © 2013 HME Clear-Com Ltd. All rights reserved. Clear-Com, the Clear-Com logo, and Clear-Com Concert are trademarks or registered trademarks of HM Electronics, Inc. The software described in this document is furnished under a license agreement and may be used only in accordance with the terms of the agreement.
Contents 1 Important Safety Instructions ................................................................... 6 Safety symbols .......................................................................................................................... 7 Mains power cord ...................................................................................................................... 7 2 Introduction ................................................................................................ 8 2.
.4.1 4.5 Wiring schemes ............................................................................................................ 26 4.5.1 4-Pair analog ......................................................................................................... 26 4.5.2 2-Pair analog ......................................................................................................... 27 4.5.3 Single-Pair Digital ....................................................................................
9 Glossary ...................................................................................................
1 Important Safety Instructions 1. Read these instructions. 2. Keep these instructions. 3. Heed all warnings. 4. Follow all instructions. 5. Do not use this apparatus near water. 6. Clean only with dry cloth. 7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. 8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. 9.
Safety symbols Familiarize yourself with the safety symbols in Figure 1. These symbols are displayed on the apparatus and warn you of the potential danger of electric shock if the system is used improperly. They also refer you to important operating and maintenance instructions in the product user manual. Figure 1: Safety symbols Mains power cord Eclipse matrices and associated devices are powered by an internal power supply.
2 Introduction The system is a digital point-to-point intercom platform, designed to seamlessly integrate your entire intercom infrastructure (digital, wireless, IP-based and analog intercom systems). The system comprises matrices, interface cards and modules, user panels and interface frames. At the heart of the system is the central matrix, comprising a matrix and the highly intuitive configuration software, run from an external PC.
2.1 Chapters summary 3B Chapter Description 1 Important Safety Instructions Important safety instructions for installing, using and maintaining the Eclipse HX-PiCo 2 Introduction This chapter. An introduction to the Eclipse HX-PiCo User Guide. 4 Installing the Eclipse HX-PiCo This chapter provides an overview of the Eclipse HX-PiCo, including its applications, functionality, power supplies and connectors. This chapter describes how to install and set up the Eclipse HXPiCo.
3 Overview This chapter provides an overview of the Eclipse HX-PiCo, including its applications, functionality, power supplies and connectors. 3.1 Eclipse HX matrices There are four matrices in the HX product range: Matrix Eclipse HX-Omega Description The Eclipse HX-Omega has slots for 17 cards (1 / 2 CPU cards and 15 / 16 interface cards) in a six rack unit (6RU) frame. For more information, see the Eclipse HX-Omega User Guide.
3.2 Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix A complete Eclipse HX system comprises an Eclipse HX matrix (such as the Eclipse HX-PiCo) and the remote audio devices (such as User Panels, Interface cards, Interface modules and Interface frames) connected to it. Note: The term central matrix is used to differentiate the system’s core hardware and software from the connected intercom panels and interfaces. The central matrix itself comprises the matrix and the EHX configuration software. 3.2.
Note: The Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix supports the same V-Series and i-Series user panels, interface cards and interface modules as its larger counterparts, the Eclipse HX-Omega and the Eclipse HX-Median matrices. 3.2.3 Applications of the Eclipse HX-PiCo The Eclipse PiCo provides high-quality full-duplex communications for applications requiring a moderate number of ports in a compact 1-RU form. Applications may include: • Mobile production facilities. • Small to mid-sized studio integration.
3.2.6 Power supplies An Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix has two internal power supply units. One power supply unit can power the entire matrix; the second unit provides a backup in case of failure or damage to the first unit. In addition, the two supplies have separate IEC connectors to AC mains, and are designed for completely automatic and transparent changeover between supplies in the event of a power outage in one of the AC mains circuits.
3.
Key to Figure 2 Front panel controls and lights Feature 1 Description PC null-modem serial connector (3.5mm jack socket, labeled RS-232) Connects the matrix to an external computer (PC). For more information, see 4.6 Connecting to an external PC. 2 Reset button Pressing the reset button causes the matrix to stop its current activity and to restart. Note: The same configuration that was active before the reset will be active after it is reset.
5 6 Configuration status lights The four configuration status lights indicate which of the four onboard configurations is currently active. The currently active configuration’s light illuminates steadily. Power supply alarm lights (1 and 2) An Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix has two internal power supply units. One power supply unit can power an entire matrix; the second unit provides a backup in case of an equipment failure.
3.4 Connecting to external devices 3.4.1 Intelligent linking between Eclipse HX matrices You can use intelligent linking to connect a Eclipse HX-PiCo to an Eclipse HX-Median, Eclipse HX-Omega and other Eclipse HX-PiCo matrices. Up to 15 matrices may be connected. The linking between matrices is achieved using dedicated trunk lines between ports on the linked systems. Any port within the matrix may be used as a trunk line, creating one full-duplex communications path between the matrices.
3.4.3 Linking to user panels (V-Series and i-Series panels) The following user panels are compatible with the Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix system: • I-Series panels, including expansion panels. • V-Series panels, including expansion panels. User panels are normally connected to the matrix with an analog connection, using shielded CAT-5 4-twisted pair csables with RJ-45 connectors. You can also connect V-Series panels to the matrix with a digital connection, using the AES-6 digital interface module.
3.5 EHX configuration software The Eclipse HX configuration software (EHX) controls the operation of the connected devices (such as user panels, interface modules and interface frames) by sending signals to the CPU in the Eclipse HX-PiCo, which then relays the signals to the devices. Note: EHX is also used to configure the Eclipse HX-PiCo. EHX configuration software is ordered separately.
• Assigning labels (names) to ports and user panels. • Creating point-to-point and fixed group (partyline) communications between connected intercom devices. • Enabling, limiting or disabling features of connected user panels or interface modules. • Configuring connections between matrices. Tip: The above list is not definitive. For more information about the capabilities of EHX, see EHX Help.
4 Installing the Eclipse HX-PiCo This chapter describes how to install the Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix to a standard 19” (48.26 cm) rack. It also shows you how to connect the matrix to the mains power supply and external devices, including other matrices and user panels. Tip: For an overview of the Eclipse HX-PiCo, see 3 Overview. 4.1 Preparing to install the Eclipse HX-PiCo 4.1.1 Checking the shipment When the Eclipse HX-PiCo is received inspect the boxes for shipping damage.
4.2 Installing the Eclipse HX-PiCo To install an Eclipse HX-PiCo: 1. Remove the Eclipse HX-PiCo from its shipping carton. 2. Place the matrix in a standard Electronic Industry Association equipment 19” (48.26 cm) rack. Environmental information: Leave clearance on all sides of the matrix to ensure proper airflow. Do not block ventilation vents. 3. Connect the power supplies to AC mains power using the IEC connectors on the matrix’s rear panel.
4.3 Connecting the Eclipse HX-PiCo to external devices You can connect the Eclipse HX-PiCo to the the following external devices: • Thirty-two Eclipse HX intercom panels or interfaces. • Eight general purpose outputs (GPOs or relays). • Eight general purpose inputs (GPIs). • Up to ten external GPI/RLY interfaces. • An additional Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix to form a 72-port linked system. • A local area network (LAN) connection for Ethernet-based communication with a network.
4.3.
Key to Figure 4 Rear panel connectors Feature 1 2 Description Two IEC AC power input connectors (1 for each power-supply unit). RJ-45 connectors (36). For connecting the Eclipse HX-PiCo to remote user panels (V-Series and i-Series user panels), interface modules, interface frames and other intercom devices. Note: The last four ports are four-wire only. 3 General Purpose Outputs (GPOs) connector. Male, 25-pin, D-Type 4 General Purpose Inputs (GPIs) connector.
4.4.1 DTMF generation and detection DTMF generaton and detection is only supported on 16 ports (ports 17 – 32) on the Eclipse HX-PiCo. When using a TEL-14 interface module with the Eclipse HX-PiCo, Clear-Com recommends that the TEL-14 is connected to one of these matrix ports for full functionality. Although ports 1 - 16 are not DTMF-enabled, a TEL-14 interface module connected to one of these ports can receive incoming calls. However, it is not possible to then use inward DTMF on ports 1 though 16.
Figure 4: Connecting the matrix) to an analog panel (4-Pair connection) 4.5.2 2-Pair analog Eclipse HX-PiCo uses a 2-pair analog wiring scheme between the matrix and four-wire equipment. Note: The wiring scheme shown in Figure 5 below is for four-wire equipment with an RJ-45 connector. For four-wire equipment with other types of connector the pin connections should be changed in accordance with the installation specification for the four-wire equipment.
Pair Description Pair 1 Pair 1 is not used. Pair 2 Transmits digital data from the four-wire device back to the matrix Pair 3 Transmits audio from the four-wire device to the matrix. Pair 4 Pair 4 is not used.
4.5.3 Single-Pair Digital Single-pair digital connections are performed using CAT-5 cable for AES-6-CX interfaces. Pair 1 transmits and receives multiplexed digital and analog between the matrix and the panel. Tip: Check that the Select switch on the panel’s rear panel is in the correct position for the intended use. Figure 6: Connecting the matrix to a digital panel (Single-Pair digital) 4.5.
shorted to the relevant normally closed pin. When a general-purpose output becomes active, the short between the common pin and the normally closed pin is broken and a new connection is made between the common pin and the normally open pin. Important note: If the GP-OUT port is used the following filter must be fitted between the PROC-RCC socket and the cable: CINCH FA-25PS/1-LF 25W D-type in-line 1000pF filter (UK supplier: Farnell 111-4108) A shielded cable should be used.
DB-25M Connector Pin Description Pin 1 Common Pin 2 Normally closed Pin 3 Normally open Pin 4 Common Pin 5 Normally closed Pin 6 Normally open Pin 7 Common Pin 8 Normally closed Pin 9 Normally open Pin 10 Common Pin 11 Normally closed Pin 12 Normally open Pin 13 Digital ground Pin 14 Common Pin 15 Normally closed Pin 16 Normally open Pin 17 Common Pin 18 Normally closed Pin 19 Normally open 31 Eclipse HX-PiCo User Guide Relay RELAY1 RELAY2 RELAY3 RELAY4 - RELA
Pin 20 Common Pin 21 Normally closed Pin 22 Normally open Pin 23 Common Pin 24 Normally closed Pin 25 Normally open RELAY7 RELAY8 Table 7: Pin configuration of the GPO connector (DB-25M) Note: See also Figure 7: Pin configuration of the GPO connector (DB-25M). 4.5.5 Connections using General-Purpose Inputs (GPIs) The DB-25 connector labeled GP IN connects the matrix to eight local general-purpose inputs (GPIs).
To cause an input to detect an active signal, current must be sent from the relevant input pin. The external device should draw no current to cause an inactive input and at least 5 mA to cause an active input. The opto-isolator drive line contains a 1.5 kOhm resistor to limit the current through the opto-isolator. It is therefore possible to connect the input pins directly to a ground pin to cause an active input.
current through the opto-isolator. It is therefore possible to connect the input pins directly to the EXTVIN– level to cause an active input. Note: The voltage level at the external input pin should not be allowed to go below EXTVIN– or above +6 V with respect to EXTVIN–.
Pin 3 Logic input 3 Pin 4 Logic input 4 Pin 5 N/A Pin 6 N/A Pin 7 N/A Pin 8 N/A Pin 9 Ground Pin 10 Ground Pin 11 Ground Pin 12 Ground Pin 13 Ground Pin 14 Logic input 5 Pin 15 Logic input 6 Pin 16 Logic input 7 Pin 17 Logic input 8 Pin 18 N/A Pin 19 N/A Pin 20 N/A Pin 21 N/A Pin 22 V IN + Pin 23 Pin 24 Pin 25 V IN + V IN V IN Table 8: Pin connection General Purpose Inputs, DB-25F connector 35 Eclipse HX-PiCo User Guide
4.5.6 Connecting to a GPI/RLY Interface The RJ-45 connector labeled GPI/RLY Interface connects the Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix to a GPI-6 or RLY-6 interface card. The GPI-6 provides six general-purpose opto-isolated logic inputs. The RLY-6 module provides six single-pole, double-throw relay outputs. Both card types mount in either an IMF-3 interface frame or an IMF-102 interface frame. Up to ten GPI-6 or RLY-6 modules can be operated at one time from the matrix by daisy-chaining the cards together.
Note: If both GPI-6 and RLY-6 interface modules are used, then the GPI-6 interface module must be placed first in the daisy chain. The maximum combined length of all the RJ-45 cables should not exceed 20 ft. (6 m).
In Figure 12: RLY-6 DB-9M connector pinout, the labels on the pins apply to either connector. For example, #1/4 COM refers to the wiper of relay 1 if it is connected to CH. A, and the wiper of relay 4 if it is connected to CH. B.
E F G H I #3/6 Normally open #1/4 COM #2/5 Normally closed #2/5 Normally open #3/6 COM Table 9: Key to Figure 13: RLY-6 DB-9M connector pinout RLY-6 interface module in an IMF-102 interface frame Connecting to a RLY-6 interface module in an IMF-102 interface frame is the same as connecting to a RLY-6 interface module in an IMF-3 interface frame. The only difference is that an IMF-102 interface frame houses only two interfaces, which are mounted horizontally rather than vertically in the frame.
GPI-6 interface module in an IMF-3 interface frame To connect the GPI-6 interface module to the matrix: 1. Connect the RJ-45 cable (eight wires with no reversal) to the GPI/RLY INTERFACE connector on the back of the matrix. 2. Connect the other end of the RJ-45 cable into the top RJ-45 (CH. A MATRIX) connector for the GPI-6. To connect an additional GPI-6 interface module: 1. Connect one end of a short RJ-45 cable into the lower RJ-45 (CH. B MATRIX) for the first GPI-6. 2.
1 A B 2 3 C D 4 5 E 6 7 F G 8 9 H I Figure 13: GPI-6 interface DB-9M connector pinout Key to Figure 13: GPI-6 DB-9M connector pinout Connector A B C D E F 41 Description #1/4 Input A #2/5 Input A #3/6 Input A Ground Ground #1/4 Input B Eclipse HX-PiCo User Guide
G H I #2/5 Input B #3/6 Input B Power source Table 10: Key to Figure 13: GPI-6 DB-9M connector pinout Figure 14: GPI-6 application examples Figure 14: GPI-6 application examples shows how to connect switches or contacts using the power source provided by the GPI-6 module or powering switches from external sources. Each input can be wired to be isolated from each other as a further variation.
GPI-6 interface in an IMF-102 interface module frame Connecting a GPI-6 interface that is placed in an IMF-102 interface frame is the same as connecting a GPI-6 interface placed in an IMF-3 interface frame. The only difference is that an IMF-102 interface frame houses only two interfaces, which are mounted horizontally rather than vertically in the frame. Tip: For more detailed information, see the individual documentation for these interfaces and frames, and the Eclipse HX Matrix Installation Guide.
4.5.8 Connecting to a LAN (Local Area Network) The LAN connector on the Eclipse HX-PiCo has standard Ethernet pin assignments: Figure 15: Standard pin assignments for a LAN connector Important note: If the LAN connector is used a ferrite core must be added to the socket end of each cable. A suitable ferrite is Würth Electronik part: 74271132. A shielded CAT-5 cable should be used. 4.
4.6.1 Serial connection to the PC A DB-9F connector is used at the PC, when wiring for an Eclipse HX-PiCo serial connection. The 3.5mm jack socket is labeled RS-232 on the front of an Eclipse HXPiCo. Ensure that: • The data connections of Pin 2 to jack plug tip and Pin 3 to jack plug ring are followed. • Pin 5 (DB-9F) goes through to the jack plug screen. The cable will then be ready to use. Tip 1 6 Ring 2 7 3 8 Screen 4 9 5 Figure 16: Pin connections for PC DB-9F to Eclipse HX-PiCo 3.
Pin 7 N/C Pin 8 Links to 1, 4, 6 on PC side Pin 9 N/C Table 12: Pin connections for PC DB-9F to Eclipse HX-PiCo 3.
5 Using the Eclipse HX-PiCo The following chapter describes how to use the Eclipse HX-PiCo front panel controls and menu system Tip: It is easier to perform the majority of configuration and management tasks in EHX configuration software. For more information, see your EHX documentation (including EHX Help). For an overview of the Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix, see 3 Overview. 5.
Figure 18: System Ports menu display Tip: A port connection represents one of the RJ-45 connectors on the rear panel of the Eclipse HXPiCo to which remote panels and / or interfaces have been connected with shielded CAT-5 cable. When an external device is connected to a port, the rectangle for that port first displays a chequered pattern to indicate communications activity, then changes to a solid light when the connected device is online and communicating with the matrix.
Figure 19: Audio menu display 2. From the Audio menu, select either: • INPUTS. From the Input Level menu the incoming volume level to a port can be adjusted. • OUTPUTS. From the Output Level menu the outgoing volume level from a port can be adjusted. Figure 20: Input Level menu display Figure 21: Output Level menu display To adjust a port’s incoming audio levels: a. From the Input Level menu, scroll to the Port number.
d. Scroll to the LEVEL number. Press and release the setup/enter rotary control. e. Rotate the setup/enter rotary control clockwise to display available decibel levels. The audio level changes in real time as the setup/enter rotary control is rotated in the same way as adjusting the audio with a volume control. f. When the desired decibel level appears in the display, press the setup/enter rotary control to select and save it. The audio level can be set between -60 dB and 18 dB in 1 dB steps.
5.4 Creating audio routes An audio route between a source and a destination can quickly and easily be created directly from the Eclipse HX-PiCo’s front panel. To create an audio route: 1. From the Main menu, select Routing. The Routes menu is displayed. Figure 22: Routes menu display When a port number is selected on the screen, that port’s label (as set in EHX), is automatically displayed. 2. Scroll to the Source number. Press and release the setup/enter rotary control. 3.
7. Scroll to and select Save by pressing the setup/enter rotary control. (Leaving this screen without selecting Save cancels all selected route data.) The route confirmation screen is displayed. 8. To confirm the route, scroll to and select Yes. To back out from the changes select either No or Exit. 5.5 Selecting and activating a configuration map Each Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix can store up to four complete configuration maps in its onboard memory. Tip: For more information about EHX, see also 3.
4. The Reset menu is displayed. From the Reset menu, select one of the following: Reset option Description Reset Resets the system to the currently selected configuration, while restoring active calls and activating any changes made from the Eclipse HX-PiCo’s front panel since the last reset. Clear Xpoints Resets the system to the currently selected configuration, while clearing active calls and clearing any changes made from the Eclipse HXPiCo’s front panel since the last reset.
2. From the System menu, select IP address. The IP Address screen is displayed. Note: If the matrix software has been reloaded or reset, or a DHCP server was not found, the local link (default) IP address of 169.254.0.100 is displayed. 3. In the IP Address screen, select DHCP. If DHCP is enabled, the following is displayed: DHCP Enable [ X ] Disable DHCP by deselecting DHCP Enable. 4. Return to the IP Address screen. To begin changing the IP address, scroll to the first digit of the IP Address.
5.7 Accessing system information Information about the system number and firmware version can be accessed directly from the front panel menus of the Eclipse HX-PiCo. To access the system number or firmware version: 1. From the Main menu, select System. The System menu is displayed. 2. From the System menu, select Information. The Information menu is displayed. 3. From the Information menu, select System Information. The System Information menu is displayed, showing the system number and firmware version.
The following status information is displayed: Status information Description System Status This field shows the status of any data download from a connected PC computer operating the EHX software. When data downloads to the Eclipse HX-PiCo matrix from a connected PC, either Serial Download or Ethernet Download is displayed to indicate the type of download. When the download ends, OK is displayed in the System Status field.
5.10 Resetting the system Resetting the system restores the currently selected configuration map, while restoring active calls and activating any changes made from the Eclipse HX-PiCo’s front panel since the last reset. Another type of reset restores the currently selected configuration map, while clearing active calls and clearing any changes made from the Eclipse HX-PiCo’s front panel since the last reset. This is called clearing crosspoints (Clear Xpoints). To reset the system or clear crosspoints 1.
When the external logic device is activated, it sends a control signal into the matrix to perform one of several preset functions, such as turning an intercom panel’s microphone on or off, muting a microphone’s output, or turning a panel’s speaker off. The function to perform and the panel upon which it is performed is chosen from the EHX programming software. Tip: For more information about GPIs, see 4.5.
The front panel display always shows the most current on/off status of the GPO, whether it has been produced by using the front-panel controls or by using the EHX programming software. To check whether or not a GPO is on and/or to toggle a GPO on/off: 1. From the Main menu, select Status. The Status menu is displayed. 2. From the Status menu, select GPO. The GPO Status menu is displayed. Figure 28: GPO Status menu display If a GPO is on an X appears in the checkbox next to that GPO number on the menu.
6 Maintaining the Eclipse HX-PiCo This chapter provides guidance on maintaining the Eclipse HX-PiCo. 6.1 Recommended spare parts To facilitate quick repair of the system with minimum downtime, Clear-Com recommends keeping the following spare system components in good working condition at all times: • One of each type of intercom panel in the system. • One of each type of interface / card in the system.
7 Specifications 7.1 General Note: 0 dBu is referenced to 0.775 Volts RMS. Specification Description / Value Height 44mm (1.
7.2 Matrix performance Specification Description / Value Sample Rate 48 kHz Resolution 24 bit Frequency Response @ 48 kHz samplingd 30 Hz – 22 kHz ± 3 dBu Crosstalk (adjacent channel) <–70 dBu Nominal Level 0 dBu Matrix headroom 18 dBu On Noise <0.05 %, @ 0 dBu, 300 Hz to 10 kHz; <0.
7.4 System resolution Specification Description / Value Crosspoint level control 0.355 dB steps Input Level Control 0.355 dB steps Output Level Control 0.355 dB steps Threshold 0dB to – 40dB adjustable VOX Input detection Table 22: System resolution 7.5 Minimum PC requirements (for EHX software) Specification Description / Value Processor 1 GHz Memory 1GB RAM Hard disk 1GB minimum 32 bit, 2GB minimum 64 bit.
7.6 Recommended PC requirements (for EHX software) Specification Description / Value Processor 2GHz or greater for a client. As many cores as possible for a server. 2GB for client 32 bit. 4GB for client 64 bit. 3GB for server 32 bit. 4GB+ for server 64 bit. Memory Free space 1GB minimum 32 bit. 2GB minimum 64 bit. Display resolution 1600 x 1200 Operating systems Microsoft Windows Server 2003 SP2 (32 bit and 64 bit). Microsoft Windows Server 2003 R2 (32 bit and 64 bit).
7.8 Notice about Specifications While Clear-Com makes every attempt to maintain the accuracy of the information contained in its product manuals, that information is subject to change without notice. Performance specifications included in this manual are design-center specifications and are included for customer guidance and to facilitate system installation. Actual operating performance may vary.
8 Menu Map for the Eclipse HX-PiCo Note: The following menu map does not include screens for confirmation and reboot, which are displayed automatically after some screens.
9 Glossary Term Definition Analog Port Any of the Eclipse HX matrix’s analog input/output RJ-45 connectors that are used to connect cable from the matrix to panels and interfaces. Each port connects to a separate audio channel in the matrix. Alias label A label that is temporarily assigned and replaces a previously labeled port or conference. Bus A bus is the channel or path between the components in the matrix along which electrical signals flow to carry information from one component to the next.
Conference An internal matrix virtual partyline or busbar where many panels and interfaces can talk onto or listen from the party line without talking to themselves. Destination A device such as an intercom panel, beltpack, or interface to which audio signals are sent. The device from which audio signals are sent is called a source. Duplex All real-time communication between individuals talking face to face is full duplex, meaning that they can both talk and listen simultaneously.
module. I-Series The I-Series is a family of Eclipse HX-supported user panels. The series includes two display stations, two non-display stations, two expansion panels, and a level-control panel. Eclipse HX also supports V-Series panels (see below). ISO The ISO function, short for panel ISOlation, allows a panel operator to call a destination and interrupt all of that destination’s other audio paths and establish a private conversation.
Partyline A wired shared communication system based on a single screened pair of wires. See the Encore range. Matrix requires the CCI-22 to interface to it. Port Any of the input/output connections (RJ-45 connectors) on the back panel of the central matrix. These connectors and the attached cables connect the central matrix to remote intercom devices. The term port emphasizes that the connection is a portal between the central matrix and the remote intercom devices.