Allen&Heath PL-6 User Manual

PL-6 Fader Remote AP5197

User Guide

Introduction The PL-6 is one of several remote control devices available for the iDR-4/8 audio mix processor

and iLive mixing systems. It is part of the Allen & Heath PL Series of wall plates and remote controllers. It can be
mounted into a plinth or custom furniture, or used free standing. A suitable template with cutting details is provided for
custom application. The PL-6 interfaces with the Allen & Heath PL-Anet serial port. Multiple PL-6 units can be daisy
chained together along with other PL-Anet devices using CAT5 cable. A terminator is provided for plugging into the
last unit in the chain. For information on the full range of PL products available visit http://www.allen-heath.com. The
PL-6 control and indicator functions are programmed using the iDR System Manager software, or the iLive Surface
TouchScreen or Editor software. Space is provided next to the controls for custom labelling. The PL-6 is ideal as a
remote mix controller, for example as a simple operator controlled fader panel in an installed sound system, or as a
personal musicians on-stage mix controller with in-ear monitors. The installer can program the unit according to the
requirements of the application, providing the degree of control needed by the day to day operator.

8 Faders can be configured individually for input, output, group or crosspoint level control or monitor level. Minimum
and maximum ranges can be set. 16 Switches, arranged as two per fader, can be configured as combinations of level
up/down, mute toggle, polarity toggle, audio monitor select, or preset recall. 24 LED indicators, arranged as three per
fader, can be configured as combinations of 3 colour signal meters, mute status, or preset related 3 colour LED
indication. Controls can be configured as unused if not required. A single 3 colour Status LED displays PL-Anet
power and communication status. Custom labels can be fitted into the recessed areas provided. Recommended
height is 6mm.

NOTE: Check the Allen & Heath web site for the latest version of iDR or iLive firmware and software:

www.allen-heath.com

This product complies with the European
Electromagnetic Compatibility directive 2004/108/EC.

NOTE: Any changes or modifications to the
equipment not approved by Allen & Heath could void
the compliance of the equipment. Whilst we believe
the information in this guide to be reliable we do not
assume responsibility for inaccuracies. We also reserve
the right to make changes in the interest of further
product development.

Copyright© 2011 Allen & Heath Ltd. All rights reserved.

Observe the local standards which may apply

to the installation regarding the grade of cable and
installation methods.

Do not install the equipment where it is
subject to moisture, heat, vibration or excessive
movement.

Connect this equipment to the Allen & Heath
PL-Anet port only. Test for correct wiring and
installation before switching the equipment on.

IMPORTANT :

PL-6 User Guide AP5197 issue 4 1

Number of devices The maximum number of

PL devices that can be connected depends on their

type, cable lengths and PL-Anet Bus Speed. Up to 22x
PL-6 devices may be connected in an iDR system with
the half speed PL-Anet Bus setting. Fewer devices may
be connected if long distances, full bus speed or other
PL types are also involved. Long distances up to 300m
(1000’), and star point connection are possible if the
optional PL-9 PL-Anet hub is used. Before starting,
please refer to the PL Combinations Calculator
spreadsheet available on the A&H web site.

iDR

PL-Anet SERIAL NETWORK

WALL PLATES AND REMOTE CONTROLLERS

IN OUT IN OUT

TERMINATION

PL-Anet is the proprietary Allen & Heath system

for daisy chaining remote controllers. It is an RS485
serial connection that uses CAT5 STP cable to
communicate between devices over long distances. It
requires a terminator at the last unit in the chain. PL­Anet only works with Allen & Heath PL devices. The
connection includes +20V DC to power the connected
devices. The iDR-8 port is shown here.

DR-LINK AUDIO OUTAUDIO IN

PL-ANET

CAUTION 20V DC

TO AVOID DAMAGE ONLY CONNECT
COMPATIBLE REMOTE CONTROL
EQUIPMENT TO THE P L-ANET PORT.

DIGITAL EXPANDER

Mounting into furniture Cutting template

details are shown here for mounting the PL-6 into a
plinth or other furniture. Secure the unit in place using
4x fixing screws up to 3.5mm diameter.

51

37

92

PL-Anet connections Underside RJ45 ports

are provided for connecting to PL-Anet. These are
recessed so that the cables can be hidden from view.
The IN port connects to the previous unit in the chain.
The OUT port connects to the next unit, or end of chain
termination. Use flame retardent CAT5 STP (shielded
twisted pair) RJ45 cables.

PL-Anet

IN OUT

previous next

CAUTION 20V DC

TO AVOID DAMAGE ONLY CONNECT
COMPATIBLE REM OTE CONTROL
EQUIPMENT TO THE PL-Anet PORT.

SERIAL NUMBER

AN5249

Made in the UK by ALLEN&HEATH LIMITED

PL-6

TERMINATOR

PLUG

End of chain termination As with any

RS485 system, the last PL device needs to have a
terminating resistor fitted to its output port. The PL-6 is
shipped with an RJ45 terminator plug with this resistor
built in. Plug the terminator into the last unit in the PL­Anet chain. If the PL-6 is the only unit connected make
sure the terminator is plugged into its output port.

Testing the wiring Before powering up
the system make sure all the wiring is inspected and
continuity tested. This is important as wiring errors
may result in damage to the equipment.

Powering up the PL system Ensure that

the iDR-4/8 PL-Anet port is active. Its green ‘active’
LED should be lit. If not, use the iDR System Manager
software Communications Option menu to activate the
port. Plug in the PL-Anet cable. The screen will display
icons on the right hand toolbar for each PL device it
recognises. Check that the PL-6 front panel status LED
displays green. If red or yellow is displayed then check
for wiring or equipment faults.

STATUS

Configuring the controls The faders,

switches and LED indicators are configured using the
iDR System Manager software, or iLive Surface or
Editor software. Note that the LEDs are 3-colour and
can display green, red, yellow or off. Refer also to the
Help file that comes with the software.

DIA 4

CUTOUT

170.5

212 x 147 mm

Allows 1mm clearance each side

225

156.5

Grounding The exposed metal panels are

grounded through the PL-Anet cable shield. There are
no dangerous voltages inside.

LED / SOFTKEYS

LED / SOFTKEYS

LED

FADER

Further information Visit the Allen & Heath

web site for information on the full PL product range
www.allen-heath.com. If further assistance is required
please contact Allen & Heath technical support.

2 PL-6 User Guide AP5197 issue 4