FLEXNET – FNER Expandable (Modular) Routing Switches – Installation & Operation Manual
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CHAPTER 2: CONNECTIONS & PROTOCOLS
CONNECTIONS & PROTOCOLS
2. Connections & Protocols
2.1 AC Connections
All AC power cords are included with your system when it is shipped. If using an AC power cord that is not FLEXNET, make
sure it is shielded and has a grounding plug. FLEXNET uses these power cords because they help isolate AC noise from the
RF signals.
2.1.1 Voltages
Our internal power supplies are auto-ranging. This means that you can connect an acceptable range AC source to the unit
and it will automatically accommodate the new source voltage. The power supplies can operate from 85VAC to 265VAC at
47Hz to 63Hz.
Both module types have a +5 and –5 Volt supplies. Each supply will have one LED per power supply on the front panel to
indicate the staus of the power suplpy. Each of these LED’s is labeled to indicate which volage supply the LED is a monitor
for. This allows you to detect any failures and service them quickly. If any of the LED’s are extinguished and the power switch
is on, consult the troubleshooting guide immediately.
2.2 RF Signals
2.2.1 RF Testing
Every FNER module is fully tested. Each module is checked and rechecked for signal integrity every crosspoint is tested to
guarantee proper system operation at the factory.
2.2.2 RF Connections
All RF connections are made by connecting source(s) to the input(s) and destination(s) to the output(s). When connecting,
be sure that the pin at the center of the RF connector is properly inserted into the F connector on the units. A bent pin will
not pass the RF signal correctly.
NOTE:
All inputs and outputs are DC blocked. You cannot send power through the FNER to
power other devices.
2.3 Control Ports
Modules “talk” to each other through cables connected to the control ports on the rear panels of the modules. These
connections are made at system set up, and in most cases never need to be changed.
2.3.1 Control Ports Connectors
There are two DB9 type connectors on each module. The Control In and Control Out ports are always DB9 type female
connectors.
The pin numbering is the same for the connectors as well. Looking at the rear panel, pin 1 is at the top left, pin 5 is at the
bottom left, pin 6 is at the top right, and pin 9 is at the bottom right.
The control ports of the FNER 16x1 Switching modules and the control out port of the MPC 128 are only for FLEXNET
communications. See the appendix for wiriring instructions.
The control in port of the MCP 128 is user configurable and is used for serial data control of the system. The pin definitions
are listed in the table below.
Pin
Control In - RS 232 mode
Control In - RS 422/485 mode
1
GND
GND
2
TXD
(transmit data)
Not used
