Overview DXLink Fiber
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Instruction Manual – DXLink Fiber Transmitters and Receivers
Quick Reference Tables for Modes
The Transmitters and Receivers have modes that can be determined during setup to: (1) handle the system architecture,
(2) accommodate networking needs, and (3) process video signals. The Quick Reference Tables are intended to provide
users an overview of the many modes available for system setup and use. For complete information on any of the modes
listed, see the relevant chapter or chapter section referenced at the end of the specific Description.
Quick Reference Table 1 – Modes for Handling System Architecture
Mode
Description
DXLink Fiber Mode
The DXLink Fiber Mode refers to the type of physical components and how they are connected
to make up the system. When DXLink Fiber Transmitters and Receivers are cabled into a
system and powered on, they automatically detect the DXLink Mode they are being used in.
Endpoint Mode:
• When the system is setup to use Transmitters and/or Receivers with an Enova DGX Digital
Media Switcher enclosure, the system is in Endpoint Mode (see example on page 40).
Or
• When a TX is connected directly to an RX but, in addition, the TX and/or RX is connected to
a NetLinx Central Controller via a LAN or directly connected to the Controller, the system in
Endpoint Mode (see example on page 42).
Extender Mode:
• When a TX is connected directly to an RX, the system is in Extender Mode (see example on
page 42).
For additional information, reference #2 Toggle DIP switch settings for DXLink Mode (see
page 45) and DXLink System SEND_COMMANDs (see page 95).
Directional Mode
(Bidirectional,
Unidirectional,
Data Link-lost)
Note:
An additional
configuration is a mix of
two Directional Modes
in a single system. For
example, a signal is
sent from source to
destination through
individual runs of
Bidirectional Mode and
Unidirectional Mode
joined by a switcher.
Directional Mode refers to the flow of signals and communication data within the system.
Bidirectional Mode:
When data flows in two directions, the flow is bidirectional. For example, a signal containing
audio and video (with or without control) travels from a TX to an RX in any of the DXLink Fiber
Modes (see above) and an RS-232 signal from the RX travels over the fiber return path back to
the TX. Bidirectional is the default Directional Mode for DXLink Fiber, Duplex units if both fiber
strands are connected (see
page 57).
Unidirectional Mode:
When data flows in only one direction, the flow is unidirectional. For example, an audio/video
signal travels from a TX to an RX in any of the DXLink Fiber Modes (see above) and no signals
are passed back to the TX. In Unidirectional Mode, the RX does not send an optical signal
trying to establish a return path connection. Unidirectional is a configurable setting for DXLink
Fiber, Duplex and is the only available Directional Mode for DXLink Fiber, Simplex (see
page 56).
Data Link-lost Mode:
When a system is configured for Bidirectional Mode, but the data return path has been
removed or is not connected, the system is in Data Link-lost Mode. In Data Link-lost Mode, the
TX only sends audio and video to the RX over a single fiber path, but both units are actively
ready for the addition of the return path which will enable Bidirectional Mode. For example, an
audio/video signal travels from a TX to an RX and no signals are passed back to the TX, but the
RX’s return laser still transmits light and attempts to establish a connection.
