Datasheet

Studio Technologies, Inc. Model 391 Dante Alerting Unit, Issue 3, Page 3
Ethernet Data and PoE
The Model 391 connects to an Ethernet data network using a
standard 100 Mb/s twisted-pair Ethernet interface. The physical
interconnection is made by way of a Neutrik® etherCON® RJ45
connector. While compatible with standard RJ45 plugs, etherCON
allows a ruggedized and locking interconnection for harsh or high-
reliability environments. An LED displays the status of the network
connection.
The Model 391’s operating power is provided by way of the Ethernet
interface using the 802.3af Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) standard.
This allows fast and efficient interconnection with an associated
data network. To support PoE power management, the Model 391’s
PoE interface reports to the power sourcing equipment (PSE) that
it’s a class 1 (very low power) device. If a PoE-enabled Ethernet
port can’t be provided by the associated Ethernet switch a low-cost
PoE midspan power injector can be utilized.
Setup, Configuration, and Operation
Setup, configuration, and operation of the Model 391 is simple. An
etherCON RJ45 jack is used to interconnect the network interface
with a standard twisted-pair Ethernet cable associated with a port
on a PoE-enabled network switch. This connection provides both
network data and power. A 3-conductor XLR connector provides
access to the analog, electronically balanced line output. The Dante
Controller personal computer application is used to route (“sub
-
scribe”) one or two audio sources to the Model 391’s inputs.
All Model 391 features are configured using the STcontroller per
-
sonal computer software application. An extensive set of param
-
eters allows the unit’s operation to be tailored to meet the needs of
many applications. STcontroller, compatible with version 7 and later
of the Windows® operating system, is a fast and simple means of
confirming and revising the unit’s operating parameters.
A pushbutton switch is used to select the operating mode. A rotary
potentiometer (“pot”) makes it easy for the user to set the level
of the audio sounder. Three status LEDs provide a clear indication
of the unit’s operating mode and alerting status. The Model 391’s
compact enclosure is made from steel, whose mass that helps to
keep it stable at whatever location it is deployed.
Future Capabilities and Firmware
Updating
The Model 391 was designed so that its capabilities and perfor-
mance can be enhanced in the future. A USB connector, located on
the unit’s main circuit board (underneath the unit’s cover), allows
the application firmware (embedded software) to be updated using
a USB flash drive.
To implement the Dante interface the Model 391 uses Audinate’s
Ultimo™ integrated circuit. The firmware in this integrated circuit
can be updated via the Ethernet connection, helping to ensure that
its capabilities remain up to date.