Allen&Heath PL-9 User Manual

PL-9 Hub for PL-Anet AP5271

User Guide

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Introduction The PL-9 is a 7 way PL-Anet hub which extends the

capabilities of the Allen & Heath PL Series of wall plates and remote controllers. It can address up to 15 PL devices per branch up to a system maximum of 24 depending on the type of devices and distances involved. It has a built-in mains power supply to boost the PL-Anet 20V fed down each cable to power the devices. This means that larger systems can be created and connected over longer distances. It can also simplify and reduce the wiring required by allowing a ‘star point’ connection scheme. In smaller systems the PL-9 can allow individual devices to be connected independently to the iDR audio processor using single cables rather than being chained together.

A This example shows several PL devices daisy chained in the normal way through the installation. A maximum of 15 devices may be connected on the single PL-Anet feed dependent on their type and distances involved.

4 6

iDR

PL-9

iDR

PL-9

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. PLAnet only works with Allen & Heath PL devices. The port provides +20V DC to power the connected devices.

B This example shows the addition of the PL-9 hub which simplifies the cable routing by providing direct feeds to three chains. It also provides more power and addressing allowing more than 15 devices to be connected. Further PL devices may be added using the other branches.

C This example shows PL fader controllers each with their own connection. Each may be plugged and unplugged without affecting the other. Up to 7 devices could be independently connected in this way.

Panel Layouts

1 Removable rack ears for 19” rack or desk top operation.

2 Individual branch status indicators light to indicate that 20V power is available over PL-Anet. Each branch is protected against installation faults with a resettable fuse. The indicator turns off if the fuse has tripped. Remove the fault and power down for 1 minute to reset the fuse.

3 Power and Communication status indicators. POWER lights when the unit is turned on. CHAIN IN lights when the iDR or previous PL device is ready to communicate. CHAIN OUT lights when the PL-9 is ready to communicate with its connected PL devices.

4 Mains power input with ON/OFF switch, IEC connector and fuse. Heed the warnings printed in this guide and on the rear panel.

5 PL-Anet input RJ45 socket. Connects to the end of the PL-Anet chain from the iDR unit.

6 7x PL-Anet output branch RJ45 sockets A to G.

PL-9 User Guide AP5271 issue 1 1

Planning the system Decide the type and quantity of PL devices

required and the wiring distances involved. Use the PL Calculator spreadsheet available from the Allen & Heath web site (www.allen-

heath.com) to check that your configuration is possible. Plan the use of

the PL-9 branches for the shortest and most efficient cable runs.

Remove 2x rack ears

M3 Torx T10

Fit 4x feet

IMPORTANT:

214mm

8.4"

73mm

2.9"

141mm

5.5"

48mm

1.9"

44mm

1.7" 1U

PL-9

branch

GFEDCBA

443mm

17.4"

chain in chain out power

483mm

19"

7 WAY PL-Anet HUB

PL-9

Installing the PL-9 The PL-9 can be used free standing or

mounted in a 1U 19” rack space. For free standing operation remove the two rack ears using a T10 Torx head screwdriver and insert the four plastic feet supplied by pressing them into the underside. Allow a minimum of 73mm clearance behind the unit for the connectors and cables. Ensure adequate ventilation to the side of and behind the unit.

Wiring the system Use flame retardant CAT5 STP (shielded

twisted pair) cable fitted with RJ45 connectors. A standard 2 metre cable is provided with the PL-9 for connection to the iDR. Do not use UTP cable. We recommend the multi-stranded rather than solid conductor type. The connection follows the EIA/TIA 568B wiring colour scheme. Ensure all ports and cables in the system are wired to this scheme. The last PL device in each branch should have its terminator fitted. Unused branches do not require termination. Before connecting, read the information provided with the PL devices used.

Check that your local mains supply is compatible with that printed on the rear panel of the unit.

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 or vibration.

To ensure operator safety ensure that any exposed metal plates, chassis and surfaces are correctly bonded to ground. The PL-9 chassis is grounded through its mains lead. Do not remove this connection to ground.

Connect the PL-9 to the Allen & Heath PL-Anet port only. Do not connect it to Ethernet, DR-Link or other RJ45 ports.

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.

Working with the iDR With the system connected, power up the

iDR audio processor. Check that iDR System Manager software version

V3.30 or later is running on both the iDR and the PC. Check that the PLAnet port is active. If not, use the File/Preferences/Communications Options menu to select the PL-Anet port.

Switch on the PL-9 by pressing its rear panel ON/OFF switch. Check that the POWER, CHAIN IN and CHAIN OUT indicators light up green indicating that communication is established with the iDR. Check that the branch indicators A to G are on indicating that power is available to the PL-Anet cables. If any of these are turned off then unplug and test the cables for faults. Power down for 1 minute to reset the branch fuses.

The iDR System Manager recognises the PL-9 hub and the connected PL devices, giving each a unique address and identification. Each PL device can be named with up to 16 characters. Configure the function of the PL devices using the iDR System Manager software. For further information refer to the Help file provided within the software.

This product complies with the European Electromagnetic Compatibility directives 89/336/EEC & 92/31/EEC.

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.

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