Midas DL431, Operator'S Manual

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8
Chapter 2: XL8 Live Performance System Overview
DL431 Mic Splitter
Operator Manual
Network
The XL8’s MidasNET network utilises the physical connectivity of Ethernet (Ethercon
connectors and Cat5/Cat6 cable), but replaces its data protocol with AES50 protocol
(implemented as Sony SuperMac) and the Sony HyperMac high capacity system, which
are more suited to high quality, low latency audio distribution. The use of the AES
standard allows straightforward interfacing with any third party hardware that also
utilises this connection.
MidasNET connections carry digital audio, control data and standard Ethernet traffic
bidirectionally down a single cable. Cat5 cable is used for the ‘local’ (24-channel)
connections and the single digital ‘snake’ (equivalent to a 384-channel analogue
multi-core) - between control centre and router - is either Cat6 or fibre optic. The
combination of audio, control, clock and third party Ethernet data in a single network
means that the hardware interfaces on a single RJ45 connection.
All system connections are duplicated for full dual redundancy.