Manual

Issue 1, January 2020 Model 348 User Guide
Page 6 Studio Technologies, Inc.
MODEL 348
INTERCOM STATION
All Model 348 operating features are config-
ured using the STcontroller software applica-
tion. The extensive set of parameters allows
the unit’s functions to be tailored to meet the
needs of many applications. STcontroller,
compatible with version 7 and later of the
Windows® operating system, is available,
free of charge, from the Studio Technologies’
website. It’s a fast and simple means of con-
figuring, revising, saving, and loading a unit’s
operating parameters.
The Model 348’s front panel includes eight
rotary controls (“encoders”) which are used
to adjust the level of the eight Dante monitor
input signal sources. Using RGB (red-green-
blue) LEDs, each control is illuminated and
can display if signal is present on the associ-
ated audio channel or if the channel is muted.
The user can monitor the Dante audio inputs
by means of either the headset or a built-in
speaker. A modern class-D amplifier integrated
circuit drives the speaker efficiently while
preserving audio fidelity. Two additional rotary
encoders are used to control the master audio
level and mute (on/off) status of the signals be-
ing sent to the headset and speaker outputs.
Extensive configuration choices allow the
operation of the eight pushbutton switches
and associated output channels to be opti-
mized to meet the needs of specific applica-
tions. They can be independently configured
for talk (intercom), IFB (talent cueing), call
signal (20 kHz tone), and other related actions.
The buttons can also be configured to provide
“all-call” functions associated with talk and IFB
functions.
The Model 348’s pushbutton switches are
illuminated to display their operating status as
well as having the ability to indicate the pres-
ence of in-band (20 kHz tone) call signals. An
audible alert, using the internal speaker, can
also be generated in response to a call signal.
For performance confirmation an integrated
sidetone function allows audio coming from
the headset’s microphone to be returned to the
headset output.
The Model 348’s compact enclosure has over-
all dimensions of 6.5 inches wide (16.5 cm),
2.5 inches high (6.4 cm), and 4.6 inches deep
(11.7 cm). Weighing 1.8 pounds (0.8 kg), the
enclosure is made of steel to provide some
“heft” to minimize the chance of inadvertent
movement. The Model 348’s main application
firmware can be updated using the USB port
on the back of the unit; the Dante firmware can
be updated via an Ethernet connection.
Ethernet Data and PoE
The Model 348 connects to one or two local
area networks (LANs) by way of two Gigabit
(“GigE”) twisted-pair Ethernet interfaces. The
1000BASE-T interconnections are made by
way of Neutrik® etherCON RJ45 connectors.
While compatible with standard RJ45 plugs,
etherCON allows a ruggedized and locking
interconnection for harsh or high-reliability
environments. The two Ethernet interfaces
can be configured, using the Dante Controller
software applications, to serve in a switched
or redundant mode.
The Model 348’s operating power can be pro-
vided by way of the Primary Ethernet interface
using the 802.3af Power-over-Ethernet (PoE)
standard. PoE allows fast and efficient inter-
connection with the associated data network.
Alternately, an external source of nominal
12 Volts DC can be connected to power the
unit. If both are connected then PoE will be
the active power source.
Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
Audio data is sent to and received from the
Model 348 using the Dante audio-over-Ether-
net media networking technology. As a Dante-
compliant device, the Model 348’s 11 Dante
transmitter (audio output) channels and 16