Studio Technologies Model 545DC – Dante to Partyline Intercom Interface Studio Technologies

The Model 545DC Intercom Interface allows two single-channel analog party-line (PL) intercom circuits and associated user devices to be incorporated into Dante® audio-over-Ethernet applications. Single-channel analog party-line (PL) intercom systems are commonly used in theater, entertainment, and education applications where a simple, reliable, low-cost, and easy-to-use solution is desired. Dante has become a major method of interconnecting audio signals and various devices using standard Ethernet networks. The Model 545DC directly supports both analog party-line (PL) and Dante, providing excellent performance in both domains. Single-channel analog party-line (PL) products from Clear-Com® are directly compatible with the Model 545DC. The Dante audio-over-Ethernet media networking technology is used to transport the send and receive audio channels associated with the two single-channel party-line (PL) circuits. The Model 545DC’s two hybrid circuits with automatic nulling action provide good separation of send and receive audio with high return loss and excellent audio quality. (These hybrid circuits are sometimes referred to as 2-wire to 4-wire converters.) The Model 545DC’s digital audio signals are compatible with all equipment that utilizes Dante technology. An Ethernet connection is all that’s required to make the Model 545DC part of a sophisticated, networked audio system.

Features:

• Dante audio-over-Ethernet technology
• Integrated party-line (PL) intercom power sources
• Analog hybrids with auto null capability
• Input and output level metering
• Excellent audio quality
• Uses STcontroller for monitoring and configuration
• PoE and 12 volts DC powering
• Table-top, portable, or optional rack-mount use

The Model 545DC can interconnect with Dante-supported devices such as matrix intercom systems, digital audio processors, and audio consoles. The unit is directly compatible with RTS ADAM® and ODIN® intercom systems that support OMNEO® network technology. Alternately, two Model 545DC units can be interconnected by way of an associated Ethernet network. The Model 545DC can also become part of a party-line (PL) intercom system when used in conjunction with devices such as the Model 5421 and Model 5422A Dante Intercom Audio Engine units from Studio Technologies. In this way, analog party-line (PL) intercom circuits can become part of a high-performance digital party-line (PL) intercom deployment.

The Model 545DC can be powered by Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) or an external source of 12 volts DC. The unit can provide two party-line (PL) power sources and analog impedance termination networks, allowing direct connection of user beltpacks such as the Clear-Com RS-501 and RS-701 devices. A Model 545DC can also connect to one or two existing powered and terminated single-channel analog party-line (PL) intercom circuits. The unit provides four audio level meters that help to confirm system performance during setup and operation. Support for transporting industry-standard call light signals between two Model 545DC units, as well as between a Model 545DC and other compatible units, is also provided.

The STcontroller software application can be used to real-time monitor and control several Model 545DC operating parameters. In addition, two configuration settings are performed using the application. Versions of STcontroller are available that are compatible with the Windows® and macOS® operating systems. They are available, free of charge, from the Studio Technologies’ website.

Standard connectors are used for Model 545DC party-line (PL) intercom, Ethernet, and DC power interconnections. Set up and configuration of the Model 545DC is simple. A Neutrik® etherCON RJ45 jack is used to interconnect with a standard twisted-pair Ethernet port associated with a local-area network (LAN). This connection can provide both PoE power and bidirectional digital audio. LEDs provide status indications of the Ethernet and Dante connections.

The unit’s lightweight aluminum enclosure is intended for desk or tabletop use. Optional mounting kits allow one or two Model 545DC units to be mounted in one space (1U) of a standard 19-inch rack enclosure.

Applications
There are three main ways the Model 545DC can be used in applications: connecting analog party-line (PL) intercom circuits into Dante-based intercom applications, adding party-line (PL) intercom support for matrix intercom systems, and linking two stand-alone analog party-line intercom circuits. The Model 545DC’s Dante transmitter (output) and receiver (input) channels can be connected to Dante-based digital PL intercom circuits. These circuits would typically be created using devices such as the Studio Technologies’ Models 5421 or 5422A Dante Intercom Audio Engines. This would allow legacy analog party-line intercom equipment to become part of contemporary digital intercom applications. The resultant audio quality for both the analog and Dante-base PL should be excellent.

Ports on matrix intercom systems that support Dante, such as the RTS ADAM and ODIN with OMNEO, can be routed to the Model 545DC’s Dante transmitter (output) and receiver (input) channels. The Model 545DC’s circuitry will then convert these signals into two single-channel analog party-line intercom circuits. In this way, adding analog party-line support will be a simple task. The Model 545DC can also be used with matrix intercom systems that don’t support Dante. An external analog-to-Dante interface can be used to convert “4-wire” analog intercom resources to Dante channels. For example, the Model 544D Audio Interface from Studio Technologies is well suited to function with matrix intercom systems. Once in the Dante digital domain, these audio channels can be interconnected with the Model 545DC’s Dante receiver (input) and transmitter (output) channels.

Separate single-channel analog party-line (PL) intercom circuits can easily be interconnected using two Model 545DC Interfaces. On each end, a Model 545DC is connected to one or two PL circuits as well as to the Dante network. The Dante Controller software application is used to route (subscribe) the audio channels between the two Model 545DC units. (The physical distance between units will only be limited by the deployment of the LAN’s subnet.) That’s it — nothing else is required to achieve excellent performance.

The Model 545DC can also be used to “bridge” (interconnect) one or two single-channel party-line intercom circuits with a 2-channel party-line intercom circuit. This involves using a Model 545DC to support the single-channel circuits and a Studio Technologies’ Model 545DR Intercom Interface to support the 2-channel party-line intercom circuit. The Model 545DR is a “cousin” of the Model 545DC and supports one 2-channel party-line intercom circuit rather than two singe-channel circuits. This 2-channel circuits, typically supported by equipment from RTS, are commonly used in broadcast applications.

Party-Line Interface
As previously discussed, the Model 545DC’s two party-line intercom interfaces are optimized for connection with two single-channel party-line intercom circuits or groups of single-channel user devices. (While the Model 545DC will also function in a limited manner with 2-channel RTS TW circuits, the Model 545DR Intercom Interface is the much-preferred choice.) A party-line active detection function ensures that should a user beltpack or active party-line intercom circuit not be connected the Model 545DC’s interface circuitry will remain stable. This unique feature makes certain that objectionable audio signals, including oscillations and “squeals,” won’t be sent to other Dante-enabled devices.

A significant capability of the Model 545DC’s two party-line interfaces is their ability to supply power and a 200 ohms AC termination to “create” two independent intercom circuits. Each 28 volts DC output can power a moderate number of devices such as user beltpacks. With up to 150 milliamperes (mA) of current available, a typical entertainment application could connect up to three RS-501 or five RS-701 beltpacks to each of the Model 545DC’s two interfaces. In many applications, this can eliminate the need for an external intercom power supply, reducing total system cost, weight, and required mounting space. The power supply outputs are monitored for over-current and short-circuit conditions. Under firmware (embedded software) control the outputs will automatically cycle off and on to help prevent damage to the circuitry and connected equipment.

Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
Audio data is sent to and from the Model 545DC using the Dante audio-over-Ethernet media networking technology. Audio signals with a sample rate of 48 kHz and a bit depth of up to 24 are supported. Audio transmitter (output) and receiver (input) channels on associated Dante-enabled devices can be routed (subscribed) to the Model 545DC using the Dante Controller application. This makes it simple to select the way in which a Model 545DC fits into a specific application.

Analog Hybrids with Auto Nulling
Two circuits, referred to as “hybrids,” interface the Dante transmitter (output) and receiver (input) channels with the two party-line channels. The hybrids provide low noise and distortion, good frequency response, and high return-loss (“nulling”), even when presented with a wide range of party-line conditions. Unlike telephone-line (“POTS”) oriented DSP-based hybrid circuits, the Model 545DC’s analog circuitry maintains extended frequency response. With a passband of 100 Hz on the low end and 8 kHz on the high end, natural-sounding voice signals can be sent to and received from a party-line circuit.

The Model 545DC’s sophisticated hybrid auto nulling function uses a combination of digital and analog circuitry under microprocessor control to achieve significant trans-hybrid loss. This return-loss “null” is achieved by making a series of firmware-directed adjustments to account for the resistive, inductive, and capacitive conditions that are present on the connected party-line cabling and user devices. Whenever one of the Model 545DC’s auto null buttons is pressed, or the STcontroller application is used, digital circuitry adjusts the associated hybrid to achieve its maximum return-loss in under 15 seconds. While the nulling process is automatic, it only takes place upon user request. The resulting null parameters are stored in non-volatile memory.

Pro Audio Quality
The Model 545DC’s audio circuitry was designed in the spirit of professional audio equipment rather than that found in typical party-line intercom gear. High-performance components are used throughout, providing low-distortion, low-noise, and high headroom. Using active filters, the frequency response of the audio channels is limited to nominally 100 Hz to 8 kHz. This range was selected to provide excellent performance for human speech while maximizing the ability of the hybrid circuits to create substantial “nulls.”

Audio Meters
The Model 545DC contains two sets of 5-segment LED level meters. Each set of two meters displays the level of the signals being sent to and received from a party-line interface. At the time of installation and setup the meters are invaluable in helping to confirm correct operation. During normal operation the meters offer rapid confirmation of audio signals flowing in to and out of the Model 545DC unit.

Status Display
LED indicators are provided on the Model 545DC’s front panel, offering a status indication of the party-line power sources, party-line activity, and auto null functions. Two other LEDs offer a direct indication of what source or sources of power are connected to the Model 545DC. The STcontroller application also provides a real-time “virtual” status display of the unit’s PL power sources, PL activity, and auto null functions.

Call Light Support
Typical single-channel party-line intercom circuits provide a call light function by way of a DC voltage applied to the audio path. The Model 545DC can detect such call light activity, converting it to a 20 kHz audio tone which is then transported over the Dante audio path. A Model 545DC unit at the “far end” will detect the “call” audio tone and regenerate it as a DC voltage on the party-line intercom audio path. This allows full “end-to-end” call light support between two Model 545DC units. It also allows a Model 545DC to send and receive call light status with an interconnected Model 545DR Intercom Interface. The Model 545DR is typically used with the RTS TW-series of two-channel party-line user beltpacks, including the popular BP-325.

Ethernet Data, PoE, and DC Power Source
The Model 545DC connects to a local area data network (LAN) using a standard 100 Mb/s twisted-pair Ethernet interface. The physical interconnection is made by way of a Neutrik etherCON RJ45 jack. While compatible with standard RJ45 plugs, an etherCON jack allows a ruggedized and locking interconnection for harsh or high-reliability environments. The Model 545DC’s operating power can be provided by way of the Ethernet interface using the Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) standard. This allows fast and efficient interconnection with the associated data network. To support PoE power management, the Model 545DC’s PoE interface reports to the power sourcing equipment (PSE) that it is a class 3 (mid power) device. The unit can also be powered using an external source of 12 volts DC.

For redundancy, both power sources can be connected simultaneously. An internal switch-mode power supply ensures that all Model 545DC features, including party-line intercom circuit power, are available when the unit is powered by either source. Four LEDs on the back panel display the status of the network connection, Dante interface, and PoE power source.

Simple Installation
The Model 545DC uses standard connectors to allow fast and convenient interconnections. An Ethernet signal is connected using a Neutrik etherCON RJ45 jack. If Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) is available operation will commence immediately. An external 12 volts DC power source can also be connected by way of a 4-pin female XLR connector. Party-line intercom connections are made using two 3-pin male XLR connectors. The Model 545DC is housed in a rugged yet lightweight aluminum enclosure that is designed to be “field tough.” It can be used as a standalone portable unit, supporting what’s known in the broadcast world as “throw-down” applications. Rack-mounting option kits are available that allow one or two Model 545DC units to be mounted in one space (1U) of a standard 19-inch rack enclosure.

Future Capabilities and Firmware Updating
The Model 545DC was designed so that its capabilities and performance can easily be enhanced in the future. A USB receptacle, located on the Model 545DC’s back panel, allows the application firmware (embedded software) to be updated using a USB flash drive. To implement its Dante interface the Model 545DC uses the UltimoX2™ integrated circuit from Audinate. The firmware in this integrated circuit can be updated via the Ethernet connection helping to ensure that its capabilities remain up to date.