Roland RSS Digital Snake S-4000, Owner'S Manual, Page: 14 / 108

1—Introduction
14 S-4000 Digital Snake Owner’s Manual
Conventions Used in the Manual
Names
The S-4000 Digital Snake System is comprised of three primary components:
• S-4000S 40 CH I/O Modular Rack
• S-4000H 32x8 FOH Unit
• S-4000R Remote Controller
Throughout the text, the individual components’ names are often shortened, and referred to simply as
“S-4000S,” “S-4000H,” and “S-4000R.” When a procedure or description refers to the entire system,
the name “S-4000 System” is used.
Additionally, the names of buttons, knobs, and connectors are shown exactly as they appear on the
system components. As a result, these names are shown completely in capital letters. For example, the
button labeled “LOCK” will appear in the manual as the LOCK button, or simply LOCK, as in “Press
LOCK.”
One button on the S-4000R serves a dual purpose. The button’s name indicates both of its functions:
CLIP CLEAR•ENTER.
Usage Conventions
The purpose of the S-4000 System is to function as an audio “snake”—a device used to transfer
multiple audio signals from one place to another, usually over a long distance. Since the S-4000
System transfers signals as digital data—the system’s primary benefit—it’s called a “digital snake.”
In most cases, audio snakes are used in sound reinforcement applications that involve a musical
performance, a theatre presentation, or an orator (or orators). In such applications, the primary source
of the audio is at a “stage” area, and that audio is sent via the snake to a “mixing” position (also
referred to as the “front of house” or FOH position).
Of course, there are many other usage applications for an audio snake, such as transferring audio
to a recording setup, a broadcast feed, or any other application where multiple audio signals are
transferred and managed.
Occasionally, the manual refers to a physical location for the system’s components as the “stage,”
“mixing,” or “front of house” location. These terms are used only for the sake of brevity or to illustrate
the signal flow of the system in terms understood by a typical audio engineer. However, they are not
meant to imply that the system is unsuited for a particular alternate application. The S-4000 System
will function just as well in any installation where an audio snake is required.