Aviom 6416i User Manual

P/N 9310 1010 0001F rev. 2.00

Line-Level Input Module

© 2009 Aviom, Inc.

User Guide

Certifications

Pb

Pb-Free

ETL/cETL Listed

EMC: EN 55013, EN 55020, SAA AS/NZS 1053

Conforms to: IEC 60065, EN 60065, UL 6500‑2001

Certified to: CAN/CSA E60065, KETI

RoHS Status: Pb‑free

Notice of Rights

All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopy,
recording, or otherwise—without written permission of Aviom, Inc.

Trademarks

Aviom, A‑Net, the A‑Net icon, Pro16, Pro64, and Virtual Data Cable are
trademarks of Aviom, Inc.

All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

© 2009 Aviom, Inc. All rights reserved.

Information subject to change without notice.

ii

READ THIS FIRST

!

Important Safety Instructions

Read these instructions. 1.
Keep these instructions2.
Heed all warnings.3.
Follow all instructions.4.
Do not use this apparatus near water.5.
Clean only with a dry cloth.6.
Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the 7.

manufacturer’s instructions.
Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, 8.

stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding‑type 9.

plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the
other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding
prong. The wide blade or third prong are provided for your safety. If
the provided plug does not fit your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.

Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, particu‑10.
larly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit
the apparatus.

Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.11.
Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by 12.

the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used,
use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid
injury from tip‑over.

Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for 13.
long periods of time.

Refer all servicing to qualified personnel. Servicing is required 14.
when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as when
the power‑supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled
or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been
exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been
dropped.

No on/off power switches are included in the system. The external 15.
power supply should be used to control power to an Aviom device.
This power supply should remain readily operable.

The solid line over dashed line symbol (16. ) indicates that the
input voltage must be a DC voltage.

The box within a box symbol ( 17. ) indicates that the external power
supply is double insulated.

ii i

! !

WARNING!

TO REDUCE THE DANGER OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK DO NOT REMOVE COVERS.

NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL ONLY

To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this
product to rain or other types of moisture.

To avoid the hazard of electrical shock, do not handle the
power cord with wet hands.

Replace fuse with same type and rating.
Operating Temperature: 10˚C to 50˚C (50˚F to 122˚F)

Risque de choc électrique – ne pas ouvrir. Pour réduire le risque de feu ou de choc
électrique, ne pas exposer cet équipement à la pluie ou la moisissure. Pour réduire
le risque de choc électrique, ne pas retirer le couvercle. Pièces non remplaçables
par l’utilisateur. Confier la réparation à une personne qualifiée. Attention – utiliser
seulement un fusible de rechange de même type.

Cet appareil est conforme à la section 15 de la norme FCC. Son fonctionnement est
soumis aux conditions suivantes : (1) cet équipement ne doit pas causer des interférences
nocives, et (2) cet équipement doit accepter toute interférence captée incluant les
interférences pouvant causer des opérations indésirables.

Cet appareil numérique de Classe B est conforme à la norme NMB‑003 du Canada.

CAUTION:

Using any audio system at high volume levels can cause permanent •
damage to your hearing.

Set your system volume as low as possible. •
Avoid prolonged exposure to excessive sound pressure levels.•

IMPORTANT:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. 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 communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can
be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.•
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.•
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from •

that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/T V technician for help.•

Changes or modifications to the product not expressly approved by Aviom, Inc. could
void the user’s FCC authority to operate the equipment.

iv

Aviom, Inc. Limited Warranty

Aviom, Inc. warrants this product against defects in materials and workmanship for a
period of one year from the date of the original retail purchase.

This warranty does not apply if the equipment has been damaged due to misuse,
abuse, accident, or problems with electrical power. The warranty also does not apply
if the product has been modified in any way, or if the product serial number has been
damaged, modified, or removed.

If a defect is discovered, first write or call Aviom, Inc. to obtain a Return Authorization
number. No service will be performed on any product returned without prior
authorization. Aviom, Inc. will, at its option, repair or replace the product at no charge
to you. The product must be returned during the warranty period, with transportation
charges prepaid to Aviom, Inc., 1157 Phoenixville Pike, Suite 201, West Chester, PA

19380. You must use the product’s original packing materials for shipment. Shipments
should be insured for the value of the product. Include your name, address, phone
number, description of the problem, and copy of the original bill of sale with the
shipment. The Return Authorization number should be written on the outside of the
box.

THIS LIMITED WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS. YOU MAY HAVE OTHER
RIGHTS, WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE (OR JURISDICTION TO JURISDICTION).
AVIOM’S RESPONSIBILITY FOR MALFUNCTIONS AND DEFECTS IN HARDWARE IS
LIMITED TO REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT AS SET FORTH IN THIS LIMITED WARRANTY
STATEMENT. ALL EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES FOR THE PRODUCT, INCLUDING
BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE WARRANTY PERIOD
SET FORTH ABOVE. NO WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WILL APPLY
AFTER SUCH PERIOD.

AVIOM, INC. DOES NOT ACCEPT LIABILITY BEYOND THE REMEDIES SET FORTH IN THIS
LIMITED WARRANTY DOCUMENT. AVIOM, INC.’S LIABILITY IS LIMITED TO THE REPAIR
OR REPLACEMENT, AT OUR OPTION, OF ANY DEFECTIVE PRODUCT, AND SHALL IN NO
EVENT INCLUDE INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND.

SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW EXCLUSIONS OR LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
OR LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE
LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

v

Warranty Information

Please record the following information for future reference:

Your Authorized Aviom Dealer:

Name:

Address:

Phone:

Serial Numbers of Your Aviom Products:

Date of Purchase:

Your Authorized Aviom Dealer is your primary source for service and support.
The information recorded above will be helpful in communicating with your
Authorized Aviom Dealer should you need to contact Aviom Customer
Service. If you have any questions concerning the use of this unit, please
contact your Authorized Aviom Dealer first. For additional technical support,
or to find the name of the nearest Authorized Aviom Repair Station, check
the Aviom web site at www.aviom.com.

To fulfill warranty requirements, your Aviom product should be serviced
only at an authorized Aviom service center. The Aviom serial number label
must appear on the outside of the unit, or the Aviom warranty is void.

This manual and its contents are copyrighted by Aviom, Inc. All rights are
reserved by Aviom, Inc. This document may not, in whole or in part, be
copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated, or reduced to any electronic
medium or machine‑readable form without prior written consent from
Aviom, Inc.

The software and/or firmware contained within Aviom products is
copyrighted and all rights are reserved by Aviom, Inc.

Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the text
and illustrations in this manual, no guarantee is made or implied as to the
accuracy of the information contained within.

v i

Table of Contents

Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

The EtherCon Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Firmware Notice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

About A-Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Clocking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Control Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

A‑Net Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Support For Pro16 Series Products . . . . . . . . . . . 5

AC Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

AC Line Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Rack Mounting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Pro64 Interface Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Cat‑5e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Button Presses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Changing Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Selecting Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

DIP Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Pro64 User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Basic Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

A-Net Slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Slots versus Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Slots and Sample Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

A-Net Slot Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

A‑Net Slot Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Network Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Auto Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Control Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Setting Control Master Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Control Master Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Enumeration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Adding Pro64 Modules to a Network . . . . . . . . . 21

Changing Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Control Master and Clock Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Clock Errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Network Sample Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Changing the Sample Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Auto/Manual Mode Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Changing the Network Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Managed Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Password Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

v i

Front Panel Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Rear Panel Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Front Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Enter/Cancel Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

A‑Net LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Control Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Control Master Errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

A‑Net Slot Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Setting the A‑Net Slot Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

A‑Net Transmit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Changing the A‑Net Transmit Port . . . . . . . . . . 36

Clock Master . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Sample Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Changing the Sample Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Sample Rates and A‑Net Slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Channel Activation Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Channel Activation Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Level Meter LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Stereo Link Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Gain Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Managed Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Edit Lock Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Query Functions (Get Info) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

VDC Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

VDC Slot Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

VDC In Use LED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Assigning a VDC Slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Deactivate an Active VDC Slot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Advanced Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Function Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Clear A‑Net Resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Password Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Password Unlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Set a New Password. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Sample Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Sample Alignment Lock Status . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Get New Sample Alignment Lock Value . . . . . . . . 50

Use Stored Sample Alignment Lock Value . . . . . . . 51

Use Default Sample Alignment Lock Value . . . . . . 51

Firmware Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Update Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Firmware Update ‑ Local . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Error Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Firmware Update ‑ via A‑Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Restore Factory Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Rear Panel Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

v i i

AC Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

A‑Net Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Balanced Line‑Level Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

DB25 Audio Thru/Alternate In . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

DB25 Pinout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Alternate Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Virtual Data Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

GPIO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

GPIO Configuration DIP Switches . . . . . . . . 59

GPIO Terminal Blocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

MIDI In, MIDI Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Configuring a MIDI VDC . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

RS‑232 Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

RS‑232 Configuration DIP Switches . . . . . . . 62

RS‑232 Baud Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Control Master DIP Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Building a Pro64 Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Choosing a Network Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Connecting Pro64 Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Basic Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Auto Mode Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Digital Copies in Auto Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Adding a Merger Hub in Auto Mode . . . . . . . . . 67

Manual Mode Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Digital Copies in Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

6416i Block Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

GPIO Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

GPIO Plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

MIDI/GPIO Cable Lengths . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Factory Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Warranty Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

vi i i

Welcome

Thank you for purchasing the 6416i Input Module. This User Guide is
designed to familiarize you with the features and functions of your new
Pro64® product. All Pro64 products are powered by A‑Net®, Aviom’s
proprietary data transmission protocol designed especially for the unique
demands of live streaming audio. In developing the Pro64 Series, we have
made every effort to make the user interface as easy to use and understand
as possible. We encourage you to read the manual completely, as some of the
powerful features of your new product may not be immediately apparent.

Features

The 6416i Input Module provides a host of professional features designed
to make audio networking with Pro64 Series products easy to set up and
configure in a variety of professional audio situations.

6416i Input Module Features:

Sixteen analog line‑level audio channels•
XLR line‑level input jacks •

• DB25 Audio Thru/Alternate In connections
Individual A‑Net• ® Slot activation buttons per channel
Link switches for stereo channel pairing•
Two A‑Net ports•

• EtherCon® RJ45 network connectors

The EtherCon Connector

Pro64 Series products feature locking connectors for all network I/O. The
Neutrik® EtherCon connector is a dual RJ45‑type connector that can receive
a standard Category 5e cable or a cable fitted with the special locking
EtherCon connector.

When using a standard Cat‑5e cable, plug the cable into the center of the
EtherCon jack; release the cable by pressing on the small plastic tab built into
the cable connector.

The locking EtherCon connector is similar to an XLR plug, the kind commonly
used on microphone cables. Insert an EtherCon‑equipped cable into the
jack until it clicks and locks in place. To remove the cable, press on the metal
release tab at the top of the panel‑mounted EtherCon jack and pull the
connector outward.

1Ab o u t Yo u r Pr o 64 Pr o d u c t

Firmware Notice

All Pro64 devices in a network should be updated to use the most recent
rmware version to ensure trouble-free operation.

As new Pro64 modules are released, older Pro64 products need to be
updated so that they recognize the features and functions of the newer
modules—something that is especially important if one of the older devices
will be used as the network’s Control Master. (If for some reason you cannot
update the firmware on older Pro64 devices before using them, set the
newest module to be the network Control Master.)

Pro64 Update Tool is a free Windows software application for updating the
operating firmware in Pro64 Series products.

The Pro64 Update Tool requires a direct RS‑232 (serial) connection between
the computer and the Control Master device on the Pro64 network. Normally
this is accomplished by connecting a null modem DB9 cable between the
RS ‑232 jack on the computer and the Pro64 device. Complete information on
using RS‑232 (and USB‑to‑RS‑232 adapters) is available on the Aviom website.
Updates take just a few minutes per module.

Pro64 Update Tool is designed to run on a PC under Microsoft® Windows® XP.
It has also been tested and found to be compatible with Microsoft Windows
Vista®. Mac users can run Pro64 Update Tool using Windows XP running
under Apple’s Boot Camp program on Intel‑based Macs.

Get the Pro64 Update Tool and firmware update files from the Aviom website:
http://www.aviom.com

8Fi r m w A r e N ot i c e

About A-Net

Aviom’s A‑Net® is the only networking technology conceived, designed, and
optimized for managing and distributing audio using ordinary Cat‑5e cables.
As implemented in the Pro64® Series products, A‑Net can transmit up to 128
channels of uncompressed 24‑bit audio with the reliability and fidelity of
analog, and the power and flexibility of a true digital network.

Pro64 A‑Net allows variable sample rates in three ranges, from 44.1kHz±
to 192kHz±, with ultra‑low latency, jitter, and wander. Pro64 devices can
be connected in any combination of serial (daisy‑chain) or parallel (star)
topologies. Cable runs between Pro64 devices can be up to 400 feet (120
meters) on Cat‑5e1, and miles on single‑ or multi‑mode fiber optics (using
Aviom fiber‑capable equipment such as the MH10f ).

Because A‑Net is designed specifically for audio, the technological limitations
of Ethernet and Ethernet‑based products are removed, while audio
performance and system flexibility are increased. A‑Net incorporates Aviom’s
unique patented and patent‑pending algorithms for controlling clock jitter
and wander, as well as system‑wide latency—regardless of an installation’s
size, design, or clocking setup. A‑Net offers significant advantages in fidelity,
performance, and flexibility over Ethernet‑based products.

A‑Net uses the “physical” layer of Ethernet, but it eliminates all the protocol
elements that are designed for computers and IT‑style networking. In
audio applications, these other layers reduce efficiency, impose system
restrictions, and introduce latency and timing instability. By eliminating
Ethernet data structures, A‑Net creates a superior network, with enhanced
audio performance. With A‑Net and the Pro64 Series, Aviom continues to
break new ground in the design and development of innovative digital audio
networking technologies and solutions.

Pro64 Series Supported Sample Rates

Sample Rate Minimum Maximum

1x 44.1/48kHz 39.7kHz 52kHz

2x 88.2/96kHz 79.4kHz 104k Hz

4x 176.4/192kHz 158 .8 kH z 208kHz

Clocking

The Pro64 network offers the most flexible clocking and synchronization
options in the industry. Pro64 devices support three ranges of variable sample
rates, from 44.1/48kHz± to 192kHz±. Because no sample rate converters are

1 Cat-5e, Cat-6, or better, Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cable

2Ab o u t A- Net

used, audio transmission is kept fast and clean, eliminating the audio artifacts
and signal degradation inherent to sample rate conversion—even when
syncing to an external clock source.

Any Pro64 I/O module can be designated the clock master for the network,
generating and distributing its internal clock. Digital I/O modules are capable
of syncing to and distributing an external word clock.

Control Data

The Pro64 Series has built‑in, dedicated bandwidth for 14 channels of non‑
audio control data through the use of Aviom’s innovative Virtual Data Cables™
(VDC). These data streams are always available to carry MIDI, R S‑232/RS‑422,
or GPIO (General Purpose I/O), and they never compete with the audio
channels for network resources, regardless of the system configuration.

Because VDC inputs are simply incorporated into the A‑Net stream, these
control signals can be transmitted over very long cable runs and even across
an entire Pro64 network, significantly expanding the applications possible
with MIDI, RS‑232/RS‑422, and GPIO. And as with audio signals, VDC control
data can be input anywhere and output anywhere else in the network.

The exact complement of VDC I/O connectivity varies per product.

A-Net Ports

Pro64 I/O modules have dual A‑Net ports, labeled A and B. Both ports carry
a bidirectional A‑Net stream at all times. (That is, both ports are always
transmitting and receiving A‑Net data.) Pro64 networks can be configured in
one of two operational modes, Auto Mode or Manual Mode, depending on
the requirements of a particular application.

Each A-Net port carries bidirectional data at all times.

3Ab o u t A- Net

In Auto Mode, there are no connection rules; connect a Cat‑5e cable to either
the A or B port and the network does the rest. Auto Mode provides a true
audio network with 64 available “Slots” for transporting audio (at 44.1/48kHz).
Every audio Slot is available everywhere in the network, with no upstream/
downstream restrictions.

In Manual Mode, the Pro64 network becomes a 64x64 system (at 48kHz),
similar to a traditional stage‑to‑FOH snake. At every point in the Manual
Mode network, two 64‑channel streams are available on the cable and in
each module. The configuration of the cables and ports has an impact on the
makeup of the network and the distribution of audio signals. The user can
direct A‑Net data from a Pro64 input module to a specific port (A, B, or both).
Likewise, Pro64 output modules can be configured to output audio signals
received from a specific Pro64 network port (A or B).

Support For Pro16 Series Products

Pro64 Series products can be combined with Pro16® Series output products
such as the Pro16 Monitor Mixing System by adding the Pro64 ASI A‑Net
Systems Interface. This 1U module converts Pro64 data to Pro16 data,
providing up to four 16‑channel streams of data (depending on the Pro64
sample rate) that can be used with A‑16II and A‑16R Personal Mixers, A‑Net
Distributors, and AN‑16/o Output Modules.

The ASI is not compatible with the A‑Net output of Pro16 input modules such
as the AN‑16/i and AN‑16/i‑M and console interface cards such as the Y1.

4Ab o u t A- Net

AC Power

Always plug the unit into a properly grounded (earthed) outlet. Always use
the AC line cord that was shipped with the unit. Grasp the power cable by the
connector and never by the cord itself when connecting and disconnecting
it from the power source.

Do not expose the Pro64 device to moisture, rain, or excessively damp
environments.

AC Line Conditioning

Aviom products are digital devices and as such are sensitive to sudden spikes
and drops in the AC line voltage. Changes in the line voltage from lightning,
power outages, etc., can sometimes damage electronic equipment.

To minimize the chance of damage to your equipment from sudden changes
in the AC line voltage, you may want to plug your equipment into a power
source that has surge and spike protection. Power outlet strips are available
with built‑in surge protection circuits that may help protect your equipment.

Other options for protection of your equipment include the use of an AC
line conditioner or a battery backup system (sometimes referred to as an
uninterruptible power supply, or UPS).

Rack Mounting

Pro64 products are designed to be mounted in a 19‑inch equipment rack.
The rack ears on each side of the device are designed to support the weight
of the product without additional hardware. Each rack ear contains holes for
two screws per side. Always support the unit with all four screws to avoid
damage to the unit.

To rack mount the Pro64 product, position it in the equipment rack at the
desired location. Use standard rack‑mounting screws (10‑32 size) to attach
the unit to your rack hardware. Tighten all four screws firmly, but avoid
overtightening.

Aviom suggests the use of non‑metallic washers between the rack‑mounting
screws and the device’s finished surface to avoid marring the finish on your
Aviom products.

6mAi N tA i Ni N g Yo u r Pr o 64 Pr o d u c t

Ventilation

Always allow adequate ventilation for devices mounted in equipment
racks. Avoid placing your Pro64 product directly above or below other rack‑
mounted devices that produce high levels of heat, such as power amplifiers.

Cleaning

Before cleaning a Pro64 product, turn off the power switch and unplug the
unit from the AC power source.

To clean the surface of the Pro64 product use a clean, soft lint‑free cloth that
has been slightly moistened with water only. For tougher dirt, use a cloth
slightly dampened with water or with a mild detergent. Always be sure to dry
the surface of the unit before proceeding with use.

When cleaning your Aviom products, never spray cleaners directly onto the
product surfaces. Instead, spray a small amount of the cleaning solution onto
a clean cloth first. Then use the dampened cloth to clean the product.

Never use solvents or abrasive cleaners on the finished surfaces of your
Aviom products.

7mAi N tA i Ni N g Yo u r Pr o 64 Pr o d u c t

Pro64 Interface Conventions

Many Pro64 Series products have similar user interface components,
including buttons, LEDs, and switches. When describing the features and
functions of Pro64 Series products, the following conventions will be used.

Cat-5e

All Cat‑5e connections between A‑Net devices should use Unshielded
Twisted Pair (UTP) cable. The cable can be of the stranded or solid type; solid
wire performs better over long distances, while stranded wire is more flexible
and easier to manipulate and therefore easier to work with in a performance
situation.

Cables designated as Cat‑5e in Pro64 documentation can be interchanged
with any Cat‑6 (or better) cable. Cables will be referred to simply as “Cat‑5e.”

Connectors on Cat‑5e cables can be of the standard RJ45 variety or locking
Neutrik EtherCon type.

Button Presses

When referring to specific front‑panel labels, LEDs, and buttons or when
describing a Pro64 function that requires the press of a button on the front
panel of a device, a special typeface will be used. For example, “Press the
En t E r button to confirm the sample rate change.”

Buttons that work in combination, giving the user a choice when performing
an operation, will be referred to as one unit. For example, “Changing the
sample rate requires the user to confirm the change using the Enter/Cancel
buttons.“

Changing Values

When editing values on the front panel of a Pro64 device, some operations
will require the use of the inc/dec (short for increment/decrement) buttons.
These buttons scroll up and down through a list of available values. Holding
the button down does not accelerate scrolling. The front panel of a Pro64
module is marked only with indicator arrows. (See the drawing on the
following page.)

8Pr o 64 iN t e r F A c e co N v e N t i o N s

The buttons with up/down
indicator ar rows are used
for the inc/dec functions.

Buttons of this type will be referred to as “inc/dec” buttons.

Selecting Values

Some settings, including Sample Rate, network mode (Auto or Manual), and
Virtual Data Cable type, require the user to select from a range of values.
The button that controls the selection of a value is referred to generically as
the “selection button” for that function. For example, “Use the Sample Rate
selection button to scroll through the available rates.”

Pressing a selection button repeatedly will scroll through the available
settings and will wrap around when the end of the list is reached.

Pressing the s election button w ill
cycle thro ugh the available values.

DIP Switches

Illustrations of Pro64 DIP switch components indicate the switch handles in
black as seen below.

9Pr o 64 iN t e r F A c e co N v e N t i o N s

Pro64 User Interface

This section outlines some basic concepts of operation for Pro64 products.
Pro64 I/O devices have some common user interface elements that make
setting up a digital snake or audio network easy to understand.

Common elements include:

Enter button•
Cancel button•
A‑Net Slot selection•

• Network Mode (Auto/Manual)
Sample Rate display•
Managed button•
Edit Lock button•
Virtual Data Cable (VDC) configuration•

In addition, each I/O module has the ability to be set as the Control Master
and/or Clock Master (depending on the actual makeup of the analog/digital
modules in the audio network). Only one device can have control of these
functions at a time in a properly configured Pro64 network.

Basic Actions

Most system‑level operations in the Pro64 user interface require the use of
the Enter button to confirm an action. For example, assigning a Virtual Data
Cable port to a VDC Slot or choosing a new sample rate (on the Clock Master
device only) will require the user to press the En t E r button to confirm the
request. If no press of the Enter button is detected within a predetermined
time frame, the system will automatically cancel the request and return the
device (or entire network) to the previous state.

Operations that do not require the use of the Enter/Cancel buttons include:

Stereo c• hannel link (input modules)
Channel activation (input modules)•
Channel • on/off (output modules)
Gain settings (input modules)•
Output • level settings (output modules)

10Pr o 64 us e r iN t e r F A c e

The LED between the Enter and Cancel buttons ashe s when a button press
is required to continue.

Any operation that requires the use of the Enter/Cancel buttons will flash the
LED that is located between the two buttons to indicate that a button press
is required to complete the action. To confirm an operation, press En t E r . To
exit an operation without completing it, press the C a n C E l button.

A-Net Slot

Pro64 I/O devices come in a variety of configurations; to allow a large
number of hardware audio input devices to be available to the Pro64 audio
network, Aviom has implemented the concept of the A‑Net Slot to simplify
the configuration of potentially complex audio networks.

A Pro64 audio network will always have a finite number of A‑Net Slots
available that can be addressed by an unlimited number of hardware
channels. The actual number of available Slots is determined by the current
sample rate.

Slots versus Channels

You might be wondering why Aviom chose to refer to the audio I/O resources
in the Pro64 Series products as ‘’Slots.” Why not just call them “channels”?

We did this to avoid confusion between references to hardware audio
resources and network audio resources. The word ‘’channel’’ is ambiguous
and may cause confusion when configuring an audio network. “Channel”
appears in many contexts, including audio mixing consoles, mic preamps,

11Pr o 64 us e r iN t e r F A c e

DSP processors, and DAW software.

We use the word ‘’channel’’ when referring to the physical audio inputs—
analog or digital—on a piece of hardware (such as the 16 line‑level XLR
input jacks on the 6416i Input Module). Each of these audio inputs can be
made active and added to the network individually, and it is only when
activated that they use any network resources (the A‑Net Slots). To allow
this functionality, Pro64 products separate the hardware resources from the
available network resources by giving each hardware input channel a button
that allows it to be added to the network as needed.

It is these activated hardware resources that are being referred to as “Slots.”
Pro64 audio networks can potentially have a greater number of audio
channels and hardware I/O devices connected than the network can make
use of at one time. This provides flexibility without requiring constant re‑
patching.

Keep in mind that a Pro64 A‑Net network can only manage a specific number
of Slots at a time, and this number varies with the sample rate being used.
The maximums are 64 Slots in Auto Mode at the 48kHz sampling rate and
64x64 Slots in Manual Mode at 48kHz.

In summary, think of “channels” as hardware resources that can be added
to the network as needed and “Slots” as locations within the digital audio
network pipeline that A‑Net uses to move data throughout the network.

Slots and Sample Rate

The current system‑wide sample rate will determine the number of A‑Net
Slots that are available. Auto Mode and Manual Mode have the same number
of Slots at each sample rate; only the direction of the data is different.

Sample Rate A-Net Slots

4 4.1kH z 64
48kHz 64

88.2kHz 32
96kHz 32

176.4kHz 16
192kH z 16

Even though the network sample rate may change the available number of
A‑Net Slots, the capacity of a hardware device does not change. That is, a
16‑channel input module in a 192kHz network can still have all of its channels
activated; all of its physical inputs can operate at 192kHz.

The current sample rate will also affect the display of available A‑Net Slot
ranges. Slot ranges will always have the same maximum number as seen in
the sample rate chart. At 96kHz, for example, only Slots numbered 1 through

12Pr o 6 4 use r iN t e r F A c e

32 are available; the Slot range from 33 to 64 is inactive and unavailable at
that sample rate. Slot ranges outside the maximum for the current sample
rate can be selected, but attempting to activate a channel in an unavailable
range will result in an error message (the selected channel button, A‑Net Slot
range, and sample rate LEDs will all flash).

A-Net Slot Display

Since the capacity of the Pro64 network could be as high as 64 A‑Net Slots,
Pro64 hardware I/O devices need a way of routing a selected hardware
channel to a selected network Slot. In the upper left corner of the front panel
of a Pro64 I/O device, the A‑Net Slot display and its associated inc/dec buttons
are used to select a range of Slots that the hardware device will address.

The A-Net Slot display and its inc/dec buttons are use d to set the base Slot
for a Pro64 I/O module.

The A‑Net Slot display will show the base number that is associated with the
first hardware input or output channel on an I/O device. The actual number
seen in this display will be determined by the physical I/O on the device. That
is, an 8‑channel device will display a different set of available starting points
than a 16‑channel device (see the following tables).

To select an A‑Net Slot range, use the inc/dec buttons below the display. Press
one of the buttons until the desired base Slot range is displayed, and then
press the En t E r button. To return to the current selection without making a
change, press the Ca n C E l button.

The following tables show examples of the channel‑to‑Slot correlation
for Pro64 Series modules in a network running at the 48kHz sample rate.

13Pr o 6 4 use r iN t e r F A c e

The numbers in the Slot column will appear in the A‑Net Slot display. The
numbers seen to the right of each gray base Slot number correspond to the
channel buttons on the front panel of the interface.

Pro64 Module Ha rdware Channels

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

Base
Slot

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

17

33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48

33

49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64

49

A-Net Slot

The use of Slot assignments allows for easy reconfiguration of audio
networks and sharing of hardware I/O resources and data without physical
re‑patching.

14Pr o 6 4 use r iN t e r F A c e

A-Net Slot Example

The following example shows the power of the Pro64 network and the A‑Net
Slots concept.

The range of A‑Net Slots used in the example has been limited to the group
from 1 to 16 for simplicity.

This graphic represents a Pro64 product set to Slot range 1.

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

One 16‑channel input module is placed in each of four rooms of a production
facility, designated as Studios A, B, C, and D. One 16‑channel output module
is installed in the facility’s Studio E. All modules are set to Slot range 1.

Studio A Input s

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

Studio B Input s

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

Studio C Input s

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

Studio D Input s

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

Studio E Outpu ts

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

15Pr o 6 4 use r iN t e r F A c e

By activating a group of channels on each of the four input modules, a total
of sixteen inputs are used (indicated by reverse text). All of these inputs are
available on the network at every output module. The operator in Studio E
can use the sixteen inputs from Studios A, B, C, and D simultaneously.

The order in which the Pro64 devices are connected is irrelevant.

Studio A Input s

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

Studio B Input s

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

Studio C Input s

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

Studio D Input s

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

Studio E Outpu ts

Slot Channel

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16

1

16Pr o 64 us e r iN t e r F A c e

Network Modes

A Pro64 audio network can be set to operate in one of two modes, Auto or
Manual. The network mode can be selected on the front panel of the device
designated as the system’s Control Master.

Both modes are fully bidirectional at all times, regardless of the system layout
or design.

Auto Mode

Pro64’s Auto Mode takes most of the work out of managing resources in an
audio network. This is the “everything everywhere” mode. Channels are sent
into the network and can be seen and used by all devices in the network,
regardless of how the modules are connected and regardless of the physical
location of any module. Output modules do not need to follow input
modules as in a traditional analog system. In Auto Mode, both A‑Net ports (A
and B) function identically.

Once configured for Auto Mode, the system ensures that only one hardware
input channel is activated into a given A‑Net Slot. There is no limit to the
number of hardware output channels that can use a given A‑Net Slot. The
actual number of available Slots is determined by the current sample rate.
The maximum number is 64 active channels at the 44.1/48kHz sample rate.

Sample Rate Available A-Net Slots in Auto Mode

44.1 / 48kHz 64

88.2 / 96kHz 32

176.4 / 192kHz 16

Manual Mode

When more than 64 channels are needed in a network, Manual Mode can
be used to provide configurations of up to 64 x 64 channels. Two unique
64‑channel streams are available at each module. In Manual Mode, the A and
B A‑Net port connections can be used to direct and route A‑Net data.

Pro64 input modules can send their audio inputs to either or both A‑Net
ports, while output modules can listen to data from either port. For a
traditional stage‑to‑FOH snake system, this allows the user to configure a
system with up to 64 sends from the stage and another unique stream of up
to 64 returns to the stage.

Manual Mode operation removes the restrictions of unique channel‑to‑Slot‑
range relationships found in Auto Mode. Slots can be overwritten, allowing
the user to replace channels from one part of the network with new data.

17Pr o 6 4 use r iN t e r F A c e

This means that, while no more than 128 channels can be in the network at
a particular location, there is no practical limit to the total number of audio
channels in the system.

The number of available Slots in Manual Mode is dependent upon the current
sample rate.

Sample Rate Available A-Net Slots in Manual Mode

44.1 / 48kHz 64 x 64

88.2 / 96kHz 32 x 32
176 .4 / 192kHz 16 x 16

18Pr o 64 us e r iN t e r F A c e

Control Master

In every Pro64 network, one device will always be designated as the Control
Master, the device that manages all A‑Net resources for the network. The
Control Master can be any I/O module in the network, and can be assigned or
changed by the user as needed. Only one device can be assigned as Control
Master in a Pro64 system at a time; an A‑Net network cannot function
without a Control Master.

The functions of the Control Master include:

System resource and information management •
Setting • network mode (Auto or Manual)
Management of • active channels in Auto Mode
System‑level command and control functions •
Keeping track of all Pro64 devices in the network (by type •

and quantity)
Control of the current system‑wide • sample rate

• Clock Master (analog modules only)
System lock via • password on/off
Management of • Virtual Data Cable (VDC) resources
Management of • stereo link status
Requests to enter Managed Mode •

The Control Master status is identified with a red LED on the front panel of
the device currently assigned as the Control Master.

Only one device in a Pro64 network can be designated as the Control Master.

47co N t r o l mA s t e r

Setting Control Master Status

Setting a device to be the Control Master is done using the DIP switches
found on the rear panel. The Control Master switch is part of the Virtual Data
Cable port section of the interface.

Switch 10 in the RS-232 conguration group is used to set the Control Master
status for a module.

In the VDC section, locate the 10‑position DIP switch in the RS‑232 area of the
rear panel. Switch #10 will set a module to be the Control Master for an audio
network when the switch is in the On (up) position (the up position is shown
in black in the diagram above).

Control Master Functions

This section describes the individual functions that the designated Control
Master device in a Pro64 network controls.

Enumeration

When the Control Master is powered on, its first job is to identify and count
all connected A‑Net modules in the network in a process called enumeration,
similar to a PC booting up and loading its operating system. The time for this
process will vary based upon the number of modules in a system.

Enumeration is an automated process performed by the command and control
portion of the system. There are no user‑controllable functions or settings.

48co N t r o l mA s t e r

During the enumeration process, all connected A‑Net modules will flash
their A‑Net LEDs, indicating that a request to be added to the network is
being made. Once granted entry by the Control Master, the individual
module’s blue A‑Net LED will light solid to indicate that it is now receiving
valid A‑Net packets and is part of the network.

The blue LED in the A- Net icon, shown here on a 6416i Input Module, is us ed
to indicate network status.

If valid A‑Net packets are not received, the module will reset and wait until a
valid A‑Net stream is detected.

During enumeration, any conflicts will also be resolved. For example, consider
a new Auto Mode installation using eight input modules set to the same
A‑Net Slot range with all channels activated during a bench configuration.
When all these input modules are connected and then powered up, only
one of them will be allowed to have all 16 channels activated. The remaining
seven modules will have their audio channels deactivated.

Adding Pro64 Modules to a Network

When a new device is added to an existing network, the new device makes a
request to the Control Master for inclusion in the network. During this time,
the new module’s blue A‑Net LED will flash. When the new module has been
enumerated by the Control Master, its blue A‑Net LED will then light solidly
to indicate that the Control Master has granted the module access to the
network. Adding a new module will interrupt network operation briefly.

Changing Settings

Most operations on Pro64 modules that make system‑wide changes require
the use of the Enter and Cancel buttons. For any operation that requires
confirmation, the LED between the Enter and Cancel buttons will flash
to indicate that the user needs to press one of these buttons in order to
continue.

Press En t E r to complete the operation or press Ca n C E l to exit without making
a change. This rule applies to all functions that can be changed by only the
Control Master.

49co N t r o l mA s t e r