Ref
erences
Other Functions
Connecting to an
External De
vice
A
udio I/O
Connection
Connecting to
a Computer
Contr
ols and
Connector
s
Intr
oduction to
the DME Satellite
Fore
w
o
rd
Introduction to the DME Satellite
DME8i-C/DME8o-C/DME4io-C Owner’s Manual
17
Conductors and performers
One device on the CobraNet network works as the conductor (network sync master). All other CobraNet devices
are performers (network sync slaves). Each device synchronizes its own internal clock to the beat packets (sync
signals) transmitted by the conductor.
The conductor device is chosen automatically and no user intervention is required.
However, setting an appropriate conductor priority could enable users to assign any device as the conductor.
Refer to the DME Designer Owner’s Manual for more information on setting the conductor priority.
If the DME Satellite is the conductor, the [IN USE/CONDUCTOR] LED flashes orange.
If the conductor fails, another device automatically takes over.
Since the conductor transmits beat packets (sync signals) onto the network, each performer does not require an
external word clock connection, reducing cabling complexity and cost.
Any non-networked digital audio equipment should derive its word clock from a CobraNet networked device.
Cables and hubs for CobraNet network
Category-5 metal cables can be used for runs of up to 100 meters. The maximum distance for multimode fiber
optic cable is 2 kilometers.
However, due to differences in cables, as well as switching hub and CobraNet device performance, proper opera-
tion at the maximum length cannot be guaranteed in all cases.
Ethernet cables are categorized into crossover cables and straight cables. When you connect two devices directly
together, use a crossover Ethernet cable.
Use a switching hub and straight cables to connect three or more network devices.
NOTE
All CobraNet networked devices, regardless of whether each device serves as the conductor or a performer, can receive digital
audio data and control data.
