AdderLink X50 USB
LOCAL
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User Guide
contents
Contents
Welcome
Introduction .................................................................................2
Supplied items
Optional items
.............................................................................3
.............................................................................4
Installation
Connections .................................................................................5
Mounting .....................................................................................5
Connections at the local module
Local module power
Connections at the remote module
Dual user configuration
Video display (DDC) information
Video sharpness adjustment
..........................................................7
.......................................................10
...........................................6
.......................................8
.........................................11
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Operation
General use ................................................................................13
Dual user arbitration
Peripheral operation
.................................................................13
.................................................................13
Further information
Getting assistance ......................................................................14
Troubleshooting ........................................................................14
Warranty ....................................................................................15
Safety information
Radio Frequency Energy
....................................................................15
............................................................16
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Welcome
PC
AUDIO
VIDEO 2
VIDEO 1
RS232 SERIAL
USB
Up to 50 metres
separation
USB
device
USB
device
Serial
device
CATx link cable(s)
REMOTE
ADDER
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POWER
SHARPNE SS
LINK
TO LOCAL
ON
LOCAL
ADDER
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IN
OUT
LINK
TO REMOTE
ON
Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Adder X50 USB
extenders which provide a very effective way to put
distance between your computer and its peripherals.
The compact casings and ease of use of the Adder
X50 modules belie the ingenuity of their operation.
Using our proprietary transmission techniques we
are able to reliably transfer more signals than ever
before along a single length of Category 5, 5e or
6 twisted pair cabling. What this means for you is
that your video, audio, USB keyboard, USB mouse
and two other USB channels are all readily and
reliably available at up to 50 metres away.
Using the Adder X50 extenders does not mean
that you need to compromise on functionality in
any way. Our highly efficient transmission methods
mean that high video resolutions of up to 1920
x 1440 are supported together with CD quality
digital sound that produces no crackles - even
in the quietest interludes. The USB connections
are seamless and thanks to our unique ‘Bi-tripos’
circuitry, four full speed USB 2.0 devices can
be used simultaneously with full support for
disconnect/re-connect at any time without causing
errors.
The Adder X50 extenders have been designed to be
quick to install and totally transparent in operation.
All connectors are industry standard and the video
sharpness adjustments are made using a simple
rotary dial.
Where dual screens are required, an MS2 variant
provides double video channels in addition to full
support for an RS232 serial device. So whether you
are extending your workplace or creating a costeffective distributed audio visual system, the X50
extenders provide the power and flexibility to create
the right solution.
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Secondary video, RS232 serial and a second link cable are available only with the X50 MS2 variant
*
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Supplied items
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X50 standard extender modules
X50 local
module
Power adapter and
country- specific
power lead (for
remote module)
X50 remote
module
USB (A to B
type) lead
Audio lead
(3.5mm jacks)
Self adhesive
feet
Video lead
(15 way, male to male)
CD-ROM
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installation
X50 MS2 variant extender modules
X50 MS2
local module
X50 MS2
remote module
The MS2 variant package includes all of the above ancillary items plus:
Video lead
(15 way, male to male)
RS232 serial lead
(9 way male to female)
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Optional items
Power adapter and country- specific
power lead for local module (if USB
powering not possible)
Part number: PSU-IEC-5VDC-2.5A
Rack mount plate for X50 standard module
(useable for the local or remote modules)
Part number: X-RMK-X50
Rack mount plate for X50 MS2 module
(useable for the local or remote modules)
Part number: X-RMK-X50-DA
Rack mount chassis
Part number: X-RMK-CHASSIS
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Installation
1
ON
4
2
3
Connections
Installation of the X50 modules is straightforward with minimal configuration
requirements in most cases.
• Connections at the local module
• Connections at the remote module
Important
Do not attach a USB hub to the X50 remote, nor plug the X50 local module into
another USB hub. To do so will reduce the maximum cable length over which the
system will extend USB; also, some USB hubs may not provide enough power to
operate the local unit.
Mounting
The X50 modules offer two main mounting methods:
• Supplied four self-adhesive rubber feet
• Rack mount brackets - see below
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LOCAL
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Connections at the local module
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1 Where possible ensure that power is disconnected from the computer
system to be connected.
2 Attach the video, USB (see the
Important note on page 5) and
(optionally) audio connections
from the computer system to
the relevant sockets on the
local module.
To speaker
output port
To USB port
To primary video
output port
Note: The MS2
variant has its primary
video, USB and audio
connectors arranged
in a similar manner to
the single unit (shown
above).
3 Optionally connect local speakers
to the audio output connector
on the local module.
To local
speakers
4 Optionally connect a local video
monitor to the video out feedthrough connector on the local
module.
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[MS2 variant only] Optionally
attach a second video input
from the computer system to
the upper video in socket on
the MS2 local module.
To secondary video
output port
installation
To local
monitor
[MS2 variant only] Optionally
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attach a second video monitor
to the upper video out socket
on the MS2 local module.
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To secondary
local monitor
6
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5 Attach the connector of the
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category 5, 5e or 6 link cable (up
to 50 metres in length) to the
‘TO REMOTE’ socket on the local
module (labelled ‘LINK 1’ on MS2
variants).
Link to remote
module
6 [MS2 variant only] Optionally
attach a serial connection lead
to the female connector on the
MS2 local module and attach
the other end to a vacant serial
port on your computer.
To computer
serial port
[MS2 variant only] Attach
the connector of a second
category 5, 5e or 6 link cable
(up to 50 metres in length) to
the ‘LINK 2’ socket on the MS2
local module.
Secondary link to
remote module
Local module power
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In the majority of installations, the local module will derive all of its power
successfully from the USB link with the computer system. However, if insufficient
voltage is available from the computer system, the green indicator
adjacent to the link connector will flash. If this occurs (or if you do
not intend to use the USB connection with the computer) you will
need to purchase and use a power supply identical to the one used
for the remote module (part number: PSU-IEC-5VDC-2.5A) from
your Adder stockist.
1 If external power input is
Low power
indicator
installation
necessary, attach the output
connector of the optional power
supply to the ‘POWER’ socket of
the local module.
2 Attach the IEC power lead
to the power supply body
and insert the mains plug
of the lead to a nearby
power outlet.
Note: If a power adapter is
plugged into the module
but not switched on, it
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will prevent the unit from
deriving power from the
USB connection.
To optional
power supply
7
Connections at the remote module
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1 Place the remote module adjacent to the user location.
2 Attach the lead from the video
monitor to the video out socket
on the remote module.
3 Attach the leads of up to four
USB devices (two of which are
usually a keyboard and mouse)
to the sockets located adjacent
to the video output connector.
To USB devices,
e.g. keyboard,
mouse, etc.
See the Important note on page 5
To video
monitor
[MS2 variant only]
Optionally
attach the lead from a second
video monitor to the upper video
out socket on the MS2 remote
module.
To secondary
video monitor
[MS2 variant only] Note: When connecting four USB devices to the unit,
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ensure that their total power requirements do not exceed 1700mA (1.7A).
The USB standard states a maximum allowable current draw of 500mA
(0.5A) per device, although most devices remain well below this limit - USB
keyboards and mice typically require 100mA. Each X50 contains a selfresetting fuse that will prevent damage by shutting down the unit if the
total power draw becomes excessive.
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4 [MS2 variant only] Optionally attach
a serial device lead to the male
serial connector on the remote
module.
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To RS232
serial device
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5 Optionally attach the lead from
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your stereo speakers to the audio
output socket on the remote
module.
To speakers
6 Attach the connector of the
category 5, 5e or 6 link cable
(up to 50 metres in length) to
the ‘TO LOCAL’ socket on the
remote module (labelled ‘LINK
1’ on MS2 variants).
Link to remote
module
attach the output connector
7
of the power supply to the
‘POWER’ socket of the remote
module.
To power
supply
8 Attach the IEC power lead to the power supply body and insert the mains
plug of the lead to a nearby power outlet.
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[MS2 variant only] Attach the
connector of a second category
5, 5e or 6 link cable (up to 50
metres in length) to the ‘LINK
2’ socket on the MS2 remote
module.
Secondary
link to
remote
module
operation
To mains
outlet
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Dual user configuration
LOCAL
ADD
LOCAL
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PC
AUDIO
VIDEO
USB
REMOTE
ADDER
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POWER
SHARPNESS
LINK
TOLOCAL
ON
REMOTE
ADDER
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POWER
SHARPNESS
LINK
TOLOCAL
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USER
1
USER
2
REMOTE
ADDER
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POWER
SHARPNESS
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TOLOCAL
ON
REMOTE
ADDER
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SHARPNESS
LINK
TOLOCAL
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You can combine two Adder X50 extender sets to create a dual
user configuration. Such an installation would allow a single
computer to be controlled from two different positions, with each
position receiving the same audio visual output and having equal
and concurrent control over the computer. Arbitration between the
two positions is handled by the computer’s USB system and so this
arrangement is better suited to situations where two users would
not often require simultaneous access.
First local module
Both local modules
require their own
USB links to the PC
CATx link (up to 50m)
Audio, USB and
video from the PC
Video crosslink
from first to
second local
module
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Audio crosslink
from first to
second local
Video and audio crosslinks are
made from first local module to
the second local module
CATx link (up to 50m)
Second USB
from the PC
module
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Most of the connections are similar to the standard configuration. The main
difference is in the links to the second local module. Use an audio link lead to
connect the audio out socket of the first local module to the audio in socket of
the second. Similarly, use a video link lead to connect the video out and video
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in ports. The second local module then requires its own USB link directly to the
computer. In all other respects follow the standard instructions to connect CATx
links and all of the remote module connections.
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Video display (DDC) information
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The Display Data Channel (or DDC) is an industry standard scheme which allows
video monitors to declare their capabilities to the computer’s video adapter
circuitry, allowing the latter to optimise their outputs accordingly. Since the
widespread adoption of the scheme, video adapters have become increasingly
dependent on receiving relevant DDC information during startup, before they
will output anything more than a rudimentary video signal.
It is not possible to transmit DDC data back from the video monitor that is
attached to the remote module to the computer’s video adapter. Therefore,
during startup of the local module, it will search for a video monitor connected
to its local feed-through connector:
• If a local video monitor is found, its DDC information will be compared to
the information already stored and, if different, will be copied, stored and
presented to the video adapter upon request.
• If no local video monitor is found, the local module will make available its
previously stored set of DDC parameters to the video adapter upon request;
or, if none were stored, a default set.
In either case, the DDC information taken by the video adapter will be used
to determine the video output that is sent via the X50 modules to the remote
monitor.
If you find that the default DDC information is not completely suitable for your
remote monitor, try temporarily connecting your remote monitor to the video
out port of the local module. When the local module is powered up, it will read
and store the DDC information from your monitor. You can then return the
monitor to its remote position and the new DDC information will be used at
every power on.
DDC indications
When power is first applied to the local module (either from
the computer’s USB port or an optional power adapter) it will
search for valid DDC data on its video out connector. During
this process, the yellow indicator (built into the link connector)
will flash to indicate its progress:
• If no valid DDC information is located, the yellow indicator
will give one very short flash, representing an attempt to
read data. No changes will be made to the information already stored within
the local module.
• If the DDC information is the same as that already stored, no change will be
made and the yellow indicator will give one single flash as the information is
checked and normal operation resumes.
• If different DDC information is located, the yellow indicator will flash rapidly
for 2 to 3 seconds while the new information is stored. A single flash will
then be given as the information is checked and normal operation resumes.
The local module’s yellow indicator also provides fault indications to assist with
troubleshooting:
• Two flashes - Checksum error prior to copying - no information will be
programmed.
• Three flashes - Too much data to fit into the module - the module can hold a
maximum of two pages of DDC information.
• Rapid flashing followed by four flashes - data was lost during copying - the
default data was substituted. Repeat the power on process.
• Rapid flashing followed by five flashes - Checksum error during copying
- the default data was substituted. Repeat the power on process.
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Video sharpness adjustment
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The Adder X50 remote module includes a straightforward video adjustment to
control picture sharpness on the remote monitor.
To adjust video sharpness
1 On the computer, display a suitable
high contrast image (see right).
2 Insert a small flat-bladed
screwdriver into the SHARPNESS
adjustment hole so that it engages
with the slot in the rotary dial.
3 Turn the rotary dial fully
clockwise - you should see
a bright white shadow
to the right of your high
contrast image:
4 Turn the rotary dial anti-
clockwise until the white
shadow disappears and the
edges of your image become sharp.
Sharpness control for
the second (B) video
The remote module for
the dual video MS2 variant
includes two separate
sharpness adjustments for
each video channel (the upper
dial corresponds to the upper
video output socket).
channel
To display a suitable high contrast image
The best way to clearly view the effect of
sharpness and brightness adjustments is to
display a high contrast image, with vertical
edges, on the screen.
• Open a word processor, type the capital
letter ‘H’, or ‘M’ and increase the point
size to 72 or higher. For best results, the
background should be white and the
character should be black.
High contrast
black character
on white
background
Black or bright
white shadow
on the right
indicates
the need for
sharpness
adjustment
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Sharpness control
for the first (A) video
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Operation
General use
In use, the X50 modules should be transparent - the system and its peripherals
should operate exactly as normal, the only difference being that they are now up
to 50 metres apart.
In some installations, you may see some ‘shadows’ to the right of high contrast
screen characters. This can be caused by an incorrectly selected sharpness setting
and it may be necessary to make adjustments to correct this. Please see Video
sharpness adjustment in the ‘Installation’ section.
Dual user arbitration
When using two sets of X50 modules to allow two users to access a single
computer, be aware that arbitration between the users is handled by the USB
sub-system of the computer. Unlike with other Adder products, this means that
both users can control the computer at exactly the same time and the resulting
keyboard and mouse influences will be an amalgam of the two inputs - i.e. a
mouse move to the right by one user will cancel out a simultaneous left mouse
move by the other. The same is also true when the local module has feedthrough peripherals attached to it, adjacent to the computer.
For this reason, the X50 dual user arrangement is better suited to situations
where two users would not often require simultaneous access.
Peripheral operation
USB
Each X50 remote module provides four USB outlets, each of which can support
USB 2.0 peripherals at speeds up to 12Mbps. The X50 appears to the computer
as a four port USB hub.
If the link between the modules is interrupted, any connected USB peripherals
will be automatically disabled and re-enabled once the connection is restored.
[MS2 variant only] Note: When connecting four USB devices to the unit, ensure
that their total power requirements do not exceed 1700mA (1.7A). The USB
standard states a maximum allowable current draw of 500mA (0.5A) per device,
although most devices remain well below this limit - USB keyboards and mice
typically require 100mA. Each X50 contains a self-resetting fuse that will prevent
damage by shutting down the unit if the total power draw becomes excessive.
RS232 serial
The MS2 variant modules provide additional support for an RS232 device. The 9
way male D-type socket on the remote module supports speeds up to 115,200
baud and all PC-AT flow control pins are supported.
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Further information
Getting assistance
• Adder Technology website – www.adder.com
Check the Support section of our website for the latest solutions and driver
files.
• Email – support@adder.com
• Fax in the UK: 01954 780081
in the US: +1 888 275 1117
• Phone in the UK: 01954 780044
in the US: +1 888 932 3337
Troubleshooting
Status indicators
The green and yellow indicators built into the link connectors on each module
provide useful feedback regarding the connection and power status:
During startup (of the local module)
• One very short yellow flash: no valid DDC information available from
a locally connected video monitor, no changes made to stored DDC
information.
• Single yellow flash: DDC information being read from a locally connected
video monitor, but no changes made to stored DDC information.
• Rapid yellow flash for 2 to 3 seconds, followed by single flash: New DDC
information being read and stored from a locally connected video monitor.
• Two yellow flashes - Checksum error prior to copying - no information will
be programmed.
• Three yellow flashes - Too much data to fit into the module - the module
can hold a maximum of two pages of DDC information.
• Rapid yellow flashing followed by four flashes - data was lost during copying
- the default data was substituted. Repeat the power on process.
• Rapid yellow flashing followed by five flashes - Checksum error during
copying - the default data was substituted. Repeat the power on process.
During operation (either module)
• Continual yellow: Valid CATx link to other module sensed.
• Continual green: Correct power input sensed.
• Green flashes: Power input too low for normal operation. In the case of the
local module, this may be because the USB connection is unable to provide
sufficient power. In these cases, an external power supply should be used
with the local module.
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Important
Do not attach a USB hub to the X50 remote, nor plug the X50 local module into
another USB hub. To do so will reduce the maximum cable length over which
the system will extend USB; also, some USB hubs may not provide enough
power to operate the local unit.
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Warranty
Adder Technology Ltd warrants that this product shall be free from defects in
workmanship and materials for a period of two years from the date of original
purchase. If the product should fail to operate correctly in normal use during the
warranty period, Adder will replace or repair it free of charge. No liability can be
accepted for damage due to misuse or circumstances outside Adder’s control.
Also Adder will not be responsible for any loss, damage or injury arising directly
or indirectly from the use of this product. Adder’s total liability under the terms
of this warranty shall in all circumstances be limited to the replacement value of
this product.
If any difficulty is experienced in the installation or use of this product that you
are unable to resolve, please contact your supplier.
Safety information
• For use in dry, oil free indoor environments only.
• Do not use to link between buildings.
• Ensure that all twisted pair interconnect cables are installed in compliance
with all applicable wiring regulations.
• Do not connect CATx link interfaces (RJ45 style connectors) to any other
equipment, particularly network or telecommunications equipment.
• Warning – the power adapter contains live parts.
• No user serviceable parts are contained within the power adapter - do not
dismantle.
• Plug the power adapter into a socket outlet close to the module that it is
powering.
• Replace the power adapter with a manufacturer approved type only.
• Do not use the power adapter if the power adapter case becomes damaged,
cracked or broken or if you suspect that it is not operating properly.
• If you use a power extension cord with the remote module, make sure the
total ampere rating of the devices plugged into the extension cord do not
exceed the cord’s ampere rating. Also, make sure that the total ampere
rating of all the devices plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed the
wall outlet’s ampere rating.
• Do not attempt to service the modules yourself.
• The power supply can get warm in operation – do not situate it in an
enclosed space without any ventilation.
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Radio Frequency Energy
A Category 5 (or better) twisted pair cable must be used to connect the units in
order to maintain compliance with radio frequency energy emission regulations
and ensure a suitably high level of immunity to electromagnetic disturbances.
All other interface cables used with this equipment must be shielded in order
to maintain compliance with radio frequency energy emission regulations and
ensure a suitably high level of immunity to electromagnetic disturbances.
European EMC directive 89/336/EEC
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class
A computing device in accordance with the specifications in the European
standard EN55022. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate
radio frequency energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions may cause harmful interference to radio or television reception.
However, there is no guarantee that harmful interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment on
and off, the user is encouraged to correct the interference with one or more
of the following measures: (a) Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. (b)
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver. (c) Connect
the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected. (d) Consult the supplier or an experienced radio/TV technician for
help.
FCC Compliance Statement (United States)
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy
and if not installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions, may cause interference to radio communication.
It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class A computing
device in accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of part 15 of FCC rules,
which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference
when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this
equipment in a residential area may cause interference, in which case the user at
his own expense will be required to take whatever measures may be necessary
to correct the interference. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by
the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Canadian Department of Communications RFI statement
This equipment does not exceed the class A limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant
les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe A prescrites dans
le règlement sur le brouillage radioélectriques publié par le ministère des
Communications du Canada.
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© 2008 Adder Technology Limited
All trademarks are acknowledged.
Release 1.0e
November 2008
Part No. ADD0077
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Documentation by:
Adder Technology Limited,
Technology House,
Trafalgar Way, Bar Hill,
Cambridge, CB3 8SQ,
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)1954 780044
Fax: +44 (0)1954 780081
www.ctxd.com
Adder Corporation,
29 Water Street,
Newburyport,
MA 01950,
United States of America
Tel: +1-888-932-3337
Fax: +1-888-275-1117
Adder Asia Pacific
6 New Industrial Road,
Hoe Huat Industrial Building
#07-01,
Singapore 536199
Tel: +65 6288 5767
Fax: +65 6284 1150
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