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

The Enter/Cancel LED will ash when the user is required to press one of
these but tons in order to complete an operation.

Control Master and Clock Source

By default, the device designated as Control Master in a network consisting
of all analog modules is also the device in control of the network master
clock. The front‑panel Clock Master LED lights to indicate that a module is
designated as the master clock device.

The red Clock Master LED lights when a Pro64 device is the Control Master.

When an analog I/O module is the Control Master, there is no other analog
module that can be used as a clock source. When a digital I/O module is part
of an audio network, the digital I/O device can be used as a clock master for
the network, even if this digital device is not the network’s Control Master.

50co N t r o l mA s t e r

External clock sources on digital modules can include:

• Word Clock ‑ via the dedicated BNC Word Clock jack

• AES3 (AES/EBU) ‑ from any of the available AES3 digital

streams
Clock coming from a Yamaha® console when a • 6416Y2

A‑Net Interface Card is installed

Clock Errors

If a clock error occurs, the Clock Master LED will blink indicating that an error
has occurred. Common causes for a clock error include:

Attempting to change the sample rate on an analog device •
other than the Clock Master in an all‑analog network

Attempting to change the clock source when the network •
is password protected

Removing or changing external clock sources on a digital •
I/O module

Incorrect configuration of an external clock source on a •
digital I/O module

Network Sample Rate

When an analog device is the Control Master, the Control Master is
automatically designated as the Clock Master. It will remain the Clock Master
until a different analog module is made the Control Master or until a digital
module is added to the network and requests to be the Clock Master.

The Clock Master LED will light automatically on the Control Master when
that module is powered on. (Only a digital I/O module can be the source of
the network’s master clock without being the Control Master.)

The system’s internal master clock is derived from the sample rate currently
in use. The sample rate also affects the total number of available A‑Net Slots
available for use in the network.

The Sample Rate section of an I/O module’s front‑panel interface includes a
group of LED indicators for displaying the current network sample rate. One
LED will be lit at all times.

51co N t r o l m As t e r

Press the selection but ton to cycle through the available sample rates.

The current sample rate for the network will be displayed on all I/O modules
in the network. Only one sample rate can be used at a time.

Changing the Sample Rate

To set or change a network‑wide sample rate from the Clock Master, use the
button below the Sample Rate LEDs to select a new rate. Pressing the Sample
Rate selector button will cycle through all available sample rates, flashing
the value for the new rate. At the same time, the LED between the Enter and
Cancel buttons will flash, indicating that pressing one of these buttons is
required to confirm and complete (or cancel) the operation.

Changing the sample rate will affect the number of available A‑Net Slots
when the sample rate changes from the 1x range (44.1/48kHz), to the 2x
range (88.2/96kHz), to the 4x range (176.4/192kHz) or vice versa.

Auto/Manual Mode Selection

The Control Master can be used to set the current network mode for the
system to Auto or Manual. As with the system‑wide sample rate, the network
mode is also a global setting.

The network mode selection controls are in the same part of the user interface
as the A‑Net Slot selection. The exact front panel text of an I/O module seen
in this area will vary based on the type of module. For example, an input
module front panel will read A‑Net Transmit, while an output module will
read A‑Net Receive.

52co N t r o l mA s t e r

The selec tion button in the A-Net
Transmit/Receive section of the
interface is used to choose the network
mode on the Control Master. (Seen here
is the 6416i.)

Changing the Network Mode

The button beneath the Auto/Manual Mode LEDs is used to select the
network mode and to set the transmit or receive port in Manual Mode.
Pressing the selection button will cycle through the available settings and
will flash both the mode LED and the Enter/Cancel LED. To confirm and
change the network mode, press the E n t E r button. The Control Master will
update the display on all modules in the network to reflect the change. Press
the Ca n C E l button to exit the mode change and return to the current state.

Managed Mode

Managed Mode requires the use of a computer with the Pro64 network for
tasks such as firmware updates, system monitoring, control, and editing.
The Control Master is the only module that can allow the network to enter
Managed Mode.

Entering Managed Mode requires the user to press the En t E r button after
pressing the Ma n a g E d button on the Control Master. Once the network
enters Managed Mode, all modules will light their Managed LEDs.

53co N t r o l mA s t e r

Managed Mode allows the networ k to be controlled from a computer and
can only be entered from the Control Master.

To manage a Pro64 network with a PC, the PC needs to be connected to the
Control Master using a DB9 null modem cable connected to the RS‑232 port.

Exiting Managed Mode is also done from the Control Master. Pressing the
lit Ma n a g E d button followed by the En t E r button will return the network to
local control. Attempting to enter or exit Managed Mode from any module
other than the Control Master will cause the Managed button LED to blink to
indicate the error.

Password Protection

All Pro64 devices ship with a default password. However, a Pro64 network
can be password protected from the Control Master only. Once protected,
the front‑panel interface on all modules is locked, preventing changes to
A‑Net Slots, sample rate, clock source, channel activation, stereo links, and
Virtual Data Cable assignments. Hardware switches, such as gain settings
on input and output modules, and rear‑panel DIP switches are in the analog
domain and are not affected.

Password protection remains in force even when a Pro64 system is power
cycled.

When a network is password protected, the front panel interface can be used
to get information on channel Slot assignments and VDC routings. Pressing
a channel button will display its Slot assignment in the A‑Net Slot display.
Pressing the VDC inc/dec buttons will cycle through the fourteen VDC Slots,

54co N t r o l mA s t e r

displaying any port assignments on the current module, as well as the In Use
LED for all active VDC Slots in the network. This query behavior is similar to
the behavior of an individual module when it is edit locked.

See the section on Advanced Functions for a detailed description of the
password protection commands.

55co N t r o l mA s t e r

Front Panel Components











1. A‑Net Slot Configuration

2. Auto/Manual Mode Selection
Clock 3. Master

4. Sample Rate

5. Level Meter LEDs

6. Stereo Link Button

7. Gain Switch

8. Function Button

9. Channel Activation Button









10Fr o N t PA N e l co m P o N e N t s



1. A‑Net LED

2. Control Master LED

3. VDC Slot and Port Configuration

4. Managed Mode Button

5. Edit Lock Button

6. Enter/Cancel Buttons and LED











11Fr o N t PA N e l co m P o N e N t s

Rear Panel Components







1. Power On/Off Switch

2. IEC Power Inlet

3. Fuse Holder
Balanced 4. Line‑Level Inputs, XLR



12re A r PA N e l co m P o N e N t s

















1. DB25 Audio Thru/Alternate In, x2

2. Virtual Data Cable Ports

3. GPIO Configuration DIP Switches

4. GPIO Terminal Blocks

5. MIDI In, MIDI Out

6. RS‑232 Port

7. RS‑232 Configuration DIP Switches (1‑8)

13re A r PA N e l co m P o N e N t s



1. Control Master DIP Switch (#10)

2. A‑Net Ports, EtherCon Jacks



14re A r PA N e l co m P o N e N t s

Front Panel Features

This section describes the features and functions of all front‑panel
components of the 6416i Input Module.

Enter/Cancel Buttons

The pair of buttons marked En t E r and Ca n C E l will be used to confirm
functions and mode changes or to exit a change request. The LED between
the two buttons will flash whenever the user is required to press one of these
buttons in order to continue with an operation or edit.

A-Net LED

The blue LED found within the A‑Net logo functions as the network activity
indicator. When a module is powered up, its A‑Net LED will flash while a
request to enter the network is sent to and then processed by the device
designated as Control Master. Once a module is enumerated and is part of
the network, the blue A‑Net LED will light solid. The LED will remain lit as
long as valid A‑Net network data is received.

The A-Net LED lights blue when the 6 416i is active on the network.

The A‑Net LED will flash during an operating system upgrade when the
module being updated is part of an active network. When a module is being
bench configured (it is not part of an active network), the A‑Net LED will
be off during the firmware update. (Check the Aviom website for current
firmware updates.)

Control Master

One Pro64 module in every network must be designated as the Control
Master. To set the 6416i as the Control Master, one of the DIP switches on the
rear panel in the VDC section is used. In the group of RS‑232 DIP switches,
switch #10 is used to designate a module as the Control Master. Set this
switch to the up position with the power off to avoid conflicts with network
resources.

15Fr o N t PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

When the Control Master module is powered up, the network will be
enumerated and the blue A‑Net LEDs on all Pro64 devices will be lit. On the
Control Master device, its red Control Master LED will also be lit. The Control
Master LED will be off on all remote/slave modules in a network.

Control Master Errors

The following rules apply to the Control Master and active Pro64 networks.

If a slave module in an active network is incorrectly switched to be a Control
Master (in addition to the network’s already functioning Control Master),
that module’s Control Master LED will light and the A‑Net LED will go out to
indicate the error. The Control Master LED will remain lit until the module is
returned to slave status. All other module functions will operate normally.

If a new powered module set to be the Control Master is added to an active
running network (one that already has a valid Control Master), the new
module’s Control Master LED will light. Its audio I/O resources will remain
unavailable until the module is returned to slave status. All audio on this
module will be muted until the module is set to be a slave.

If the Control Master is removed from a functioning network (by being
disconnected, power failure, etc.), all slave units will reset and audio will be
muted. Slave units will wait for a new Control Master to be designated and at
that point will begin the enumeration process.

A-Net Slot Configuration

The A‑Net Slot section of the interface is used to set the range of A‑Net Slots
that the 6416i will use to send its active audio channels into the network.
There are two components: the A‑Net Slot display and the inc/dec buttons
used to select a value.

Press the up/down buttons to selec t an A-Net Slot range.

On a sixteen‑channel module like the 6416i, the A‑Net Slot display will move
in increments of sixteen Slots. The A‑Net Slot range display will wrap as it
reaches the end of the list of available values. The number shown in the
display corresponds to the first Slot in a group of sixteen sequential Slots,
one per channel button. The available base Slots are 1, 17, 33, and 49.

16Fr o N t PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

Starting Slot Displayed A-Net Slot Range

Selection button

01 Slots 1‑16

17 Slots 17‑32

33 Slots 33‑48

49 Slots 49‑64

Keep in mind that the number of available Slots is determined by the current
network sample rate as set by the Clock Master.

Setting the A-Net Slot Range

To set a Slot range, use the inc/dec selection buttons found below the A‑Net
Slot display to select the desired range. When the selection button is pressed,
the new range displayed will start to blink, as will the Enter/Cancel button’s
LED. This indicates that confirmation is required to complete the change.
Press En t E r to set a new range or press Ca n C E l to exit without changing
the A‑Net Slot range and return to the previous setting. If no press of the
Enter/Cancel button is detected within a brief period of time, the interface
will automatically cancel the range change request, returning to the previous
state.

Setting a new Slot range on the 6416i will deactivate any currently active
channels.

A-Net Transmit

The A‑Net Transmit section displays information about the current network
mode, which can be set to Auto or Manual only at the network’s Control
Master. When the Pro64 network is operating in Auto Mode, the red Auto LED
will be lit, and no user settings are available on a per‑module basis. It does
not matter which rear‑panel A‑Net port (A or B) is used when connecting
devices to the network.

The Control Master can set the ne twork mode to Auto or Manual.

In Manual Mode, the user has the option of directing A‑Net data to either or

17Fr o N t PA N e l Fe At u r e s

both A‑Net ports on the rear of the 6416i Input Module. Once the Control
Master has set the network to operate in Manual Mode, the red Manual
LED and at least one of the yellow Port LEDs will be lit on every Pro64 I/O
module.

Three options are available:

Po r t a• ‑ the 6416i transmits data from its active channels
only out of port A on the rear panel

Po r t • B ‑ the 6416i transmits data from active channels only
out of port B

• Po r t a a n d B ‑ (both LEDs are lit) the 6416i transmits
its active channels out of both the A and B ports.

A-Net data is set to transmit out
of Port B in Manual Mode in this
example.

Changing the A-Net Transmit Port

This applies to Manual Mode only; no user settings are available in Auto
Mode. The VDCs are not affected by the network mode.

Use the selector button below the Auto/Manual Mode LED readout to cycle
through the three options. When a new configuration is selected, the selected
Port LED and the Enter/Cancel LED will blink; confirmation is required. Press
En t E r to set a new transmit port or press Ca n C E l to exit without making a
change and return to the previous setting.

Changing the port transmit settings in Manual Mode has no effect on the
current channel activation settings.

Clock Master

One device in a Pro64 network will always be set as the network’s Clock
Master. In a network with only analog I/O modules, the module set as the
Control Master is also set to be the Clock Master by default. The Module set
as the Clock Master will have its Clock Master LED lit.

When digital I/O modules are used in a network, incoming word clock or AES3
(also referred to as AES/EBU) digital data streams can also be clock sources. It

18Fr o N t PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

is only when a digital module is part of the network that the Control Master
and Clock Master can be separate devices.

Sample Rate

Pro64 networks can operate at sample rates in three ranges without the use
of sample rate converters. The current network sample rate also determines
the number of available A‑Net Slots.

Sample Rate A-Net Slots Available

44.1/48kHz 64

88.2/96kHz 32

176 .4 /19 2k Hz 16

In an all‑analog network, the sample rate can be set at the Control Master to
the following:

4 4.1kH z•
48• kHz

88.2• kHz
96• kHz
176 .4• kHz
192• kHz

When an external clock is used with a Pro64 digital I/O device, the system
can lock to any sample rate within the range sample rate that is displayed in
the table below.

Pro64 Series Supported Sample Rates

Sample Rate Minimum Maximum

1x 44.1/48kHz 39.7kHz 52kHz

2x 88.2/96kHz 79.4k Hz 104 kHz

4x 17 6. 4/ 192 kH z 158 .8 kH z 208kHz

Changing the Sample Rate

The network sample rate can be changed only at the Clock Master. Changing
the sample rate is done with the selection button found below the Sample
Rate LED readout.

To choose a new sample rate, press the selection button beneath the sample
rate list. Pressing the button selects the next sample rate in the list and
immediately starts blinking the new rate’s LED and the Enter/Cancel LED;

19Fr o N t PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

confirmation is required. To confirm the new sample rate, press the En t E r
button. To exit without changing the sample rate, press Ca n C E l .

Pressing the s election
button will cycle through the
available sample rates.

Attempting to change the sample rate on a module that is not the Clock
Master will cause the Sample Rate and Clock Master LEDs to flash to indicate
the error.

Sample Rates and A-Net Slots

Changing the network sample rate has a direct effect on the availability of
A‑Net Slots. For example, setting the sample rate to 96kHz makes only 32
Slots available, numbers 1 through 32. Slot numbers 33‑64 are no longer
available.

If at the 48kHz sample rate an input module such as the 6416i is set to the
Slot range starting at 33 or 49 and has active channels, these channels will be
deactivated when the sample rate changes to 96kHz. These Slot assignments
no longer exist in the network.

Channel Activation Button

Each of the sixteen line‑level input channels on the 6416i can be made active
on the network individually using the lighted Active button found below
the gain range switch on each channel. Activating a channel assigns it to an
A‑Net Slot, making it part of the network and available to any output module
in the network.

20Fr o N t PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

Channel act ivation buttons
are found below the Gain
switches. Here, Channels 1, 3,
and 4 have been made ac tive
on the netwo rk.

In Auto Mode, each A‑Net Slot is unique. The Control Master manages the
availability of A‑Net Slots and will grant or deny a channel activation request
from an input module based on the current makeup of the network, the
sample rate, and the Slots already in use.

To activate a 6416i input channel within a given A‑Net Slot range, press its
numbered aC t i v E button. (Note that the word “Active” does not appear on
the front panel user interface.) If the Slot is available, the Control Master
will enable the Slot and the channel’s green LED will light. If the Slot is not
available, the LED will flash briefly, indicating that the requested Slot is in use
elsewhere in the network.

In Manual Mode, a channel can be activated at any time. Depending on how
the network is set up and configured, activating a channel can replace a
channel that was added to the network elsewhere.

Channel Activation Rules

It is not necessary to press the En t E r button to activate or deactivate a
channel.

Each Pro64 module remembers a unique set of active channels for Auto and
Manual Modes. For example, an input module could have channels 1‑8 active
for an Auto Mode application and channels 5‑6 and 12‑16 active for a Manual
Mode application. Changing network modes will restore the active channel
status for each connected module.

Changing the A‑Net Slot range will clear the currently active channels on an
input module automatically to protect against channel/Slot conflicts a or
unintentional overwriting.

Level Meter LEDs

Each audio input channel on the 6416i Input Module has its own set of level
LEDs—green, yellow, and red. Green indicates signal present; it turns on

21Fr o N t PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

when a signal level of ‑40dB or higher is present. The yellow LED lights when
the signal level reaches ‑10dB. Clipping is indicated with the red LED, which
lights when the level reaches 0dB.

The level meter LEDs will always show the level of the incoming analog audio
signal, even when the channel is not active on the network.

Always try to optimize the input level to assure proper gain staging
throughout both the network and the connected audio devices.

Stereo Link Button

Adjacent pairs of channels on the 6416i can be linked together as a stereo
pair. The channels must be an odd‑even pair, such as 1‑2, 7‑8, etc. There is
one Link button for each channel pair, eight in all.

To link a pair of channels, both channels must be active on the network
first; the Active button below the Gain switch must be lit on both channels.
Once the two channels are active, pressing the li n k button will link the two
channels immediately; no confirmation is required.

Attempting to link channels that do not meet the requirements above will
cause the Link button and one or more channel button LEDs to flash to
indicate the error.

To link a pair of channels, both channels must be active rst.

22Fr o N t PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

Gain Switch

Each line‑level input channel on the 6416i has an individual four‑position
gain switch that can be used to best match the incoming signal level. The
default setting (no gain change) is 0dB.

The available gain settings are:

+6dB •
0dB •
‑6dB •
‑1• 4dB

Gain switches are in the analog domain and are not locked out from being
changed when either the Edit Lock or Password protection features are
used.

Managed Button

The Managed button is used to put the network under control of a computer
for firmware updates, system monitoring, etc. Managed Mode can only be
engaged from the network’s Control Master.

When using a PC for firmware updates, etc., a Pro64 module cannot have its
RS‑232 or MIDI port assigned to a VDC when the PC is connected. Deactivate
VDC assignments of this type before entering Managed Mode.

Managed Mode and Edit Lock buttons

To enter Managed Mode, press the Ma n a g E d button; its LED will flash. The
Enter/Cancel LED will also flash. Press En t E r to confirm the mode change or
Ca n C E l to return to the previous state.

To exit Managed Mode, press the Ma n a g E d button; its LED will flash and the

23Fr o N t PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

Enter/Cancel LED will flash. Press En t E r to confirm the mode change. The
network returns to the previous local mode, Auto or Manual.

In Managed Mode, Virtual Data Cable and channel Active buttons behave as
if the module is edit locked; they provide information only when pressed. All
other front panel edits are prohibited.

Edit Lock Button

The front panel of the 6416i can be locked to prevent accidental changes or
low‑level unauthorized access. Once edit locked, all front‑panel functions
under digital control cannot be changed. Analog functions, including
channel gain settings can still be changed. Edit Lock can be used on a
module‑by‑module basis.

To lock a module’s front panel, press the Ed i t lo C k button. The Enter/Cancel
LED will blink. Press En t E r to lock the unit. No other Pro64 modules in the
network are affected. Press the Ca n C E l button to exit the operation without
locking the device’s front panel.

To unlock a Pro64 device, press the Ed i t lo C k button again. The Enter/Cancel
LED will blink. Press the En t E r button to unlock the unit. Press Ca n C E l to exit,
leaving the unit locked.

When a Pro64 module is edit locked, all front panel operations are inactive
with the following exceptions:

The Edit Lock button, along with the Enter button,• can be
used to unlock the unit.

• Gain switches on I/O modules are analog controls. These
cannot be locked.

Channel • Active buttons can be used to get information
about the channel‑to‑Slot relationships.

The • VDC inc/dec buttons can be used to get info on Virtual
Data Cable port assignments.

Query Functions (Get Info)

When a module is edit locked, its front‑panel channel buttons can be used to
get Slot info. Pressing any channel button will display the selected channel’s
A‑Net Slot number in the A‑Net Slot display.

For example, if an input module is set to the A‑Net Slot range starting at 17,
pressing channel button 2 will display “18,” channel button 3 will display “19,”
etc.

24Fr o N t PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

On an input module set to the A-Net Slot range starting at 17, pressing the
Channel 2 but ton displays A-Net Slot 18 when the module is edit locked.
Pressing the Channel 3 button will display “19,” pressing the Channel 4
button will display “20,” etc.

Channel activation status is not affected by the use of the query function. It
is used for information only.

To exit the query function, press Ed i t lo C k followed by En t E r to return to
normal operation.

Pro64 modules are set to provide query information whenever the network
is in Managed Mode.

VDC Configuration

Pro64’s Virtual Data Cables provide an easy way to distribute control signals
throughout a network, greatly expanding the possibilities for using and
distributing MIDI, GPIO, and RS ‑232 control signals. A‑Net provides the ability
to send these control data over greater distances than previously possible
with traditional analog connections. And with MIDI and GPIO connections,
infinite numbers of copies of the control data are available everywhere in the
network.

Fourteen VDC Slots are available at all times; VDCs are not affected by the
current sample rate or network mode. The makeup of the VDC Slots is user
defined; no VDC Slots are reserved for specific data types.

The VDC interface includes the numeric VDC Slot display, the inc/dec buttons
used for VDC Slot selection, the Assign Port list of VDC data types, and a
selection button for choosing a VDC data type for the currently selected VDC
Slot.

25vdc co N F i g u r A t i o N

VDC Slot display

In Use LED

inc/dec but ton

VDC port
assignments

VDC port s election

The VDC sec tion of the user interf ace is used to assign VDC por ts and data
types.

VDC Slot Display

The two‑digit VDC Slot display shows the currently selected VDC Slot (1
through 14). The In Use LED within the display indicates that a selected
VDC Slot has an active input somewhere in the network. If only an output is
assigned to a particular VDC, its In Use LED will not be lit.

When a rear-panel VDC port has been assigned to a VDC Slot, its In Use
LED will be on.

Selecting a VDC Slot is done with the inc/dec buttons below the display.
Pressing the inc/dec buttons will cause the display to scroll, and will wrap at
the end of the numeric list.

26vdc co N F i g u r A t i o N

As the VDC Slots are displayed, any VDC Slot with an active input will light
the In Use LED. If the In Use LED is not lit for a selected VDC Slot, no input is
assigned to that VDC Slot and all of the VDC type LEDs in the Assign Port list
will be unlit when the VDC out has been assigned locally.

The available VDC data types for the 6416i are:

• R S‑232

• MIDI In

• MIDI Out

• GPIO In
GPIO Out•

VDC In Use LED

The VDC In Use LED serves to indicate that a Virtual Data Cable Slot has a
current active input assignment. Output assignments for MIDI Out or GPIO
Out will not light the In Use LED.

The In Use LED will light whenever a valid assignment (GPIO In, MIDI In, or
RS‑232) has been made anywhere in the network. The VDC Slot can only be
used for the assigned data type until it has been deactivated at the point in
the network where the input source has been assigned.

Assigning a VDC Slot

The act of assigning a VDC Slot maps one of the rear‑panel hardware VDC I/O
ports to a Virtual Data Cable. To assign a VDC port to a VDC Slot, two actions
are required. First an available VDC Slot must be selected, and second, one
of the VDC data types from the Assign Port list must be assigned to that VDC
Slot.

To select a VDC Slot to activate, scroll through the list to a numbered location
that does not have the In Use LED lit.

To assign a data type, use the selector button below the Assign Port list to
select the desired VDC data type, for example MIDI In. The LED next to the
selected type will light; the Enter/Cancel LED will also start to flash. Press
En t E r to enable the VDC Slot; press Ca n C E l to exit without assigning a VDC
port.

To output VDC data from the network to a rear‑panel VDC port, choose a
VDC Slot with an In Use LED on with the appropriate data type (for example,
MIDI) for the application.

Once selected and configured, the rear‑panel I/O connection for the selected
VDC can be used to transfer control signals.

27vdc co N F i g u r A t i o N

Deactivate an Active VDC Slot

To release an active input assigned to a VDC Slot, use the inc/dec button
to scroll to the active VDC Slot. (Its In Use LED should be on.) Press the
selector button below the Assign Port LEDs until no VDC data type LED is
lit. The Enter/Cancel LED will be flashing. Press En t E r to deactivate the VDC
Slot assignment and make that VDC Slot available to other modules in the
network.

 No t e : Only VDC inputs need to be deactivated to free Virtual Data Cable

resources. VDC outputs do not reserve any of the fourteen Virtual
Data Cable resources.

28vdc co N F i g u r A t i o N

Advanced Functions

The available advanced functions for the 6416i Input Module are listed in the
table below.

Number Function

1

2 Reserved for future use

3 Reserved for future use

4 Reserved for future use

5 Reserved for future use

6 Reserved for future use

7 Reserved for future use

8 Reserved for future use

9 Password Lock /Unlock

10 Password Edit ‑ Set New Password

11 Sample Alignment Lock ‑ Get Info

12 Sample Alignment Lock ‑ Get New Value

13 Sample Alignment Lock ‑ Use Stored Value

14 Sample Alignment Lock ‑ Use Default Value

15 Pro64 Operating System Update

16 Restore Factory Defaults

Clear A‑Net Resources ‑ Active Audio Channels and Virtual
Data Cables

To exit without selecting a Function, press the Ca n C E l button. Pressing any
front‑panel button other than a channel activation button after the Function
button will also cancel the Function request.

Function Button

The Function button is used in combination with other front‑panel buttons
to access features of the user interface such as setting/changing the module’s
password, network‑wide password protection, and other Control Master
settings. Functions are mapped to the channel activation buttons; the exact
labeling of the buttons is determined by the I/O configuration of the module
(8‑channel versus 16‑channel, etc.).

To access the advanced functions, press the Fu n C t i o n button; its button LED will
light. Next, press the channel button (or button combination) that corresponds
to the desired function, followed by the En t E r button to activate it.

29Ad v A N c e d Fu N c t i o N s

Clear A-Net Resources

This Function clears currently active audio channels, stereo links, and VDC
assignments on a module for the current network mode, Auto or Manual.
The module must be unlocked to use this feature. The network cannot be in
Managed Mode.

To clear A‑Net resources, press the Fu n C t i o n button. The Function button
and Enter/Cancel LEDs will flash. Press the Ch a n n E l 1 aC t i v E button; the VDC
port assignment list and all currently active channels flash. Press En t E r . The
A‑Net resources are cleared.

To exit without clearing the current A‑Net resources in use, press the Ca n C E l
button.

Password Lock

Every Pro64 network can be password protected. Each module in the
network stores a unique password which can be used to lock the network
when that module is set to be the network Control Master.

To lock the network, press the Fu n C t i o n button on the Control Master
module. The Function button and Enter/Cancel LEDs will flash. Press the
Ch a n n E l 9 aC t i v E button; a unique LED pattern flashes to warn the user that
the network is about to be locked. Press En t E r to complete the operation. A
special red LED sequence is displayed in the channel meters to confirm that
the network is being locked.

Press Ca n C E l to exit without locking the network.

The network will be locked until the network password is provided. The Ed i t
lo C k button will light to indicate that the network is locked.

Password Unlock

When a Pro64 network is password protected, a specific four‑digit password
code is required to unlock it. The network can be unlocked only at the Control
Master.

To unlock the network, press the Fu n C t i o n button on the Control Master
module. The Function button and Enter/Cancel LEDs flash. Press the Ch a n n E l
9 aC t i v E button. Key in the four‑digit network password using the channel
Active buttons and then press the En t E r button. The network is unlocked
and can be edited or reconfigured. A green LED sequence is displayed in the
channel meters to confirm that the network is now unlocked.

To exit the unlock request without unlocking the network, press Ca n C E l to
exit.

30Ad v A N c e d Fu N c t i o N s

Set a New Password

Each Pro64 module can store a network password. However, the password
lock/unlock feature can only be used from the network Control Master.
Passwords can be changed only when the network is unlocked.

The password is a four‑digit number created using the numbered channel
activation buttons 1‑16 on the front panel. Passwords can include repeated
numbers (such as the default factory‑supplied password of 1‑1‑1‑1). When
creating a password, any string of numbers can be used, but note that only
the last four button presses are stored.

To set a new password, press Fu n C t i o n and then the Ch a n n E l 10 aC t i v E
button. Key in a four‑digit button combination and then press En t E r . The
channel buttons flash to indicate that the new password has been set.
Pressing the Ca n C E l button will exit the new password Function and leave
the original password intact.

Sample Alignment

All digital networks that allow daisy‑chained connectivity need to
compensate for sub‑millisecond latency build‑up between devices when
data is retransmitted. In the majority of cases, there is no audible effect (as
the individual delays are very small), but without compensation, these small
variations in latency can become an issue in certain applications as the
network grows in size.

On power up, each device in the network will calculate a sample alignment
value based on the current sample rate and will apply it as long as the
network is running. The next time the network sample rate is changed or
the system is power cycled, a new value will be calculated and locked in.
This sample alignment value will be referred to as the default value in the
text that follows. Using the default value will offer the simplest method of
operation.

However, to guarantee repeatable latency down to the microsecond, the
user has the option of measuring the sample alignment amount for a given
sample rate and then applying that calculated value every time the network
is powered up. This is referred to as a stored value in the text that follows. By
using these stored values, the Pro64’s unique software guarantees consistent
delays between each component of the network.

Sample Alignment Lock Status

The sample alignment query, Function 11, can be performed on the Control
Master or any remote unit in the network. The network can use the default
value (created at the time of power‑up) or a stored value.

31Ad v A N c e d Fu N c t i o N s

The red LED indic ates that the system def ault sample alignment lock values
are being used.

To get sample alignment info, press the Fu n C t i o n button, followed by the
Ch a n n E l 11 aC t i v E button. Press En t E r ; the LEDs in the Channel 11 meter strip

are used to indicate the current value in use.

The red (Clip) LED indicates that the system’s default values •
are being used. (This is set with Function 14.)

The green (Signal) LED indicates that stored values are •
being used. (This is set with Function 13.)

Get New Sample Alignment Lock Value

To generate a new sample alignment lock value, use Function 12. This
Function can only be performed at the Control Master when the network is
unlocked.

Press the Fu n C t i o n button, followed by Ch a n n E l 12 aC t i v E button. The sixteen
yellow channel meter LEDs and the Enter/Cancel LED will flash, indicating that
this operation will replace the currently stored value. Press En t E r to generate
a new sample alignment value, or press Ca n C E l to exit without updating the
stored value.

Values are stored in each module’s memory but are not put into use until
Function 13 (Use Stored Sample Alignment Values) is performed, which
activates the stored sample alignment values. The module must be the
network Control Master to use its stored value. Use Function 11 to get info on
the current values in use.

When the stored sample alignment lock value is being used, a new sample
alignment lock value should be calculated each time the network sample rate
is changed, or when the system configuration changes. (Changes include the

32Ad v A N c e d Fu N c t i o N s

addition/subtraction of Pro64 modules, different wiring schemes, etc.)

Use Stored Sample Alignment Lock Value

When a new sample alignment lock value has been generated and stored,
Function 13 can be used to activate and lock in this value for use throughout
the network. This Function can only be performed at the Control Master
when the network is unlocked.

To use the stored value, press the Fu n C t i o n button, followed by the Ch a n n E l
13 a C t i v E button. The Enter/Cancel LED and the sixteen yellow channel meter
LEDs will flash. Press En t E r to use the stored value, or press Ca n C E l to exit
without changing the sample alignment value (the system reverts to using
the default value).

The stored sample alignment value remains in force even when the network
is power cycled. When the network is reconfigured or when the sample rate
is changed, a new value should be calculated.

Use Default Sample Alignment Lock Value

The system calculates a sample alignment lock value to be used as the
default every time the network is powered up, or when the sample rate is
changed. Function 14 can be used at the Control Master to set the network
to use the default value. (Function 13 is used to instruct the system to use a
stored value. )

To set the network to use the default sample alignment value, press Fu n C t i o n ,
followed by the Ch a n n E l 14 a C t i v E button. The sixteen yellow channel meter
LEDs and the Enter/Cancel LED will flash. Press En t E r to use the default value,
or press Ca n C E l to exit without changing the current value.

Use Function 11 (Get Sample Alignment Info) to display the current value in
use—default or stored.

33Ad v A N c e d Fu N c t i o N s

Firmware Update

The Pro64 firmware can be updated in the field using a PC and the Pro64
Update Tool. Modules can be updated over A‑Net, while part of an active
audio network, or in local mode where no other modules are connected at
the time the update is being performed (such as may be required for a bench
configuration when setting up modules prior to installation).

Updating a module requires the Aviom Pro64 Update Tool application, a PC
host computer with RS‑232 connection capability, a null modem DB9 cable,
and the firmware update file for the particular Pro64 device being updated.
Refer to the Aviom website for information about the availability of the latest
firmware upgrades and feature updates.

Update Connections

To update modules via A‑Net, a host computer is connected to the network’s
Control Master via the RS‑232 port in the Virtual Data Cable section of the
rear panel. Individual modules are then selected and updated from within
the Pro64 Update Tool. Updates can be applied to the Control Master or a
slave device.

To update via A‑Net, make sure that no RS‑232 or MIDI VDC resources are
configured on the Control Master. (Refer to the Virtual Data Cable information
page 33.) Then, enter Managed Mode by pressing the Ma n a g E d button on the
Control Master.

To update modules locally, the computer is connected directly to the module
being updated, via the RS‑232 port as described above. The Pro64 Update
Tool application must also be set to its local update mode. (See the Pro64
Update Tool Help file for more information.)

Baud rates for data transfer must be set the same on the Pro64 device and
PC host running the Pro64 Update Tool. Refer to the VDC RS‑232 baud rate
info (page 60) to learn how to set the baud rate parameters. On the Pro64
module, RS‑232 must be configured for eight data bits, no parity, and one
stop bit. Also, refer to the firmware update instructions that come with the
Pro64 update application for additional information on setting up the PC
host.

Firmware Update - Local

Function 15 enables a Pro64 module to receive new firmware from a host PC
connected to the RS‑232 port on the module’s rear panel. Updates can be
applied to a Pro64 module set to be a Control Master or slave device.

34Fi r m w A r e uP d A t e

To enable firmware updates on the module, press Fu n C t i o n , followed by the
Ch a n n E l 15 aC t i v E button. The Enter/Cancel LED and the sixteen red channel

level LEDs will flash to indicate that this function will interrupt normal network
operation. Press En t E r to enable the module to receive new firmware from
the PC host. Send the firmware update following the instructions that came
with the Pro64 Update Tool. During the update the sixteen red, yellow, and
green channel meter LEDs will flash in sequence.

When the firmware update has been sent successfully, the module will
reset and normal front panel operation will be restored. If for some reason
the firmware update fails, refer to the error recovery information below for
instructions on how to recover and complete the update.

When a module is being updated locally, the dot in the VDC Slot display will
be on, indicating that a local firmware update is in progress.

When a module is waiting for a firmware update to begin, you can exit the
update state by pressing the Ca n C E l button. If the firmware update has
not yet started, the module will attempt to reset, returning it to normal
operation.

 No t e : Do not press the Ca n C E l button while a firmware update is in

progress.

Error Recovery

In case of a partial firmware download or interruption to the firmware transfer
(as would happen because of a power failure, computer crash, or by pressing
the Cancel button in the middle of a firmware code update), the module can
still be updated but will need to be powered up directly into the firmware
load mode. To do this, hold the VDC Slot decrement (down arrow) button
while powering up the unit. Then send the firmware from the computer as
described previously.

If for some reason the firmware section is damaged on a unit being updated,
it will default to receiving firmware update over A‑Net. This will allow you to
continue the update procedure.

Firmware Update - via A-Net

To enable a Pro64 module to receive new firmware via A‑Net on an active
network, the PC must be connected to the RS‑232 port on the Control Master.
The network must be in Managed Mode to update firmware via A‑Net. All
network audio will be muted, and front‑panel functions will be disabled on
the module being updated.

To enable firmware updates, a module must be selected from within the
Pro64 Update Tool application, at which point it will be setup to receive

35Fi r m w A r e uP d A t e

new firmware. Send the firmware update following the instructions that
came with the update firmware. During the update, the module’s sixteen
red, yellow, and green channel meter LEDs will flash in sequence. When the
update has been sent successfully, the module will reset and audio will be
restored.

When a module is being updated via A‑Net in an active network, the dot in
the A‑Net Slot display will be on, indicating that a network firmware update
is in progress.

When a module is waiting for a firmware update to begin, you can exit the
update state by pressing the Ca n C E l button. If the firmware update has
not yet started, the module will attempt to reset, returning it to normal
operation.

 No t e : Do not press the Ca n C E l button or exit the Pro64 Update Tool

application while a firmware update is in progress.

Restore Factory Defaults

Function 16 restores the Pro64 module to its factory default settings.

To restore the factory default settings, press Fu n C t i o n followed by th e Ch a n n E l

16 aC t i v E button. The Enter/Cancel LED and the sixteen red channel level

LEDs will flash, indicating that this function will interrupt normal network
operation. Press En t E r to continue and recall the factory default settings, or
press Ca n C E l to exit, leaving the current settings in place.

The Factory Default settings are:

A‑Net Slot is set to 1.•
Auto Mode is selected.•

• Sample Rate is set to 48kHz.
All audio channels are muted and deactivated for • Auto,

Manual, and Managed Modes.
All stereo links are deactivated for Auto, Manual, and •

Managed Modes.
Managed Mode is deactivated.•

• Edit Lock is set to off.

• Password protect is off.

The system • password value for the module being reset is
“1‑1‑1‑1.”

All Virtual Data Cables are deactivated.•

The Clock Master and Control Master settings are hardware controlled and
dependent upon the rear‑panel DIP switch settings. These are not changed
when factory defaults are restored.

36Fi r m w A r e uP d A t e

VDC configuration for GPIO type—Isolated or TTL—is not reset. VDC baud
rate, parity, and stop bit settings for RS‑232 communication are not reset.
These are hardware settings configured via the DIP switches in the VDC
section of the rear‑panel part of the interface.

Restoring factory defaults is a local function; only the module where the
function is engaged will be reset.

37Fi r m w A r e u P d A t e

Rear Panel Features

All 6416i rear‑panel features and functions are described in this section.

AC Power

Pro64 modules use switching power supplies that can operate at 100‑240V
and from 50‑60Hz, meaning that they can be used with most of the world’s
AC power systems by simply changing the line cord. The 6416i is equipped
with a standard grounded IEC power inlet (with fuse), which can accept the
interchangeable IEC power cord.

Fuse

The fuse holder is spring‑loaded and has space for two fuses, one main and
one spare (optional). Press the fuse holder cover to access the fuse. When
checking or replacing a fuse, always power off the Pro64 unit and remove the
line cord from the AC power source.

Always replace the fuse with one with the same rating as that being
changed.

A-Net Ports

Two EtherCon jacks are provided for A‑Net connections, labeled A and B.
Connections can use standard RJ45‑style cables or cables outfitted with
the locking EtherCon connector. Refer to the section on network modes for
additional information about using these jacks.

Balanced Line-Level Inputs

The sixteen female XLR line‑level input jacks on the 6416i can accept +4dBu
balanced or unbalanced audio signals. To use a mic‑level signal, a Pro64 mic‑
level module or a stand‑alone mic preamp is required.

6416i inputs accept balanced or unbalanced line-level signals.

29re A r PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

DB25 Audio Thru/Alternate In

Two female DB25 multipin connectors are provided for audio throughput on
the 6416i. Channels 1‑8 appear on one jack and channels 9‑16 on the other.
The DB25s are wired to the industry accepted Tascam® compatible analog
wiring standard.

Two DB25 multipin connec tors provide through connections.

The DB25 Audio Thru connection allows signals connected to the 6416i XLR
input jacks to be connected to another input device such as a mixing console
or Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) interface without interrupting the signals
connected to the Pro64 network.

The DB25 connectors also function as an set of alternate line‑level audio
inputs to the 6416i Input Module. Use DB25 cables wired to analog audio
standards; never connect multipin cables wired for AES3 digital connection.

 No t e : Do not use the XLR jacks and DB25 Alternate In connections for

inputs to the same set of channels on the 6416i simultaneously.

DB25 Pinout

Breakout cables for DB25‑to‑TRS, DB25‑to‑XLR connections, etc., are readily
available. To create a custom cable for the Audio Thru/Alternate In function,
use the following table and diagram.

DB25 Pin Number

Channel

1 24 12 25
2 10 23 11
3 21 9 22
4 7 20 8
5 18 6 19
6 4 17 5
7 15 3 16
8 1 14 2

No Connect 13

Hot Cold Ground

30re A r PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

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

25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14

The pins on the panel-mounted DB25 jacks are
numbered according to the diagram above.

The DB25 panel‑mount connectors have #4‑40 UNC thread.

 No t e : Strain relief is suggested when using DB25 cable assemblies. DB25

breakout cables should always be supported when connected to a
Pro64 product to reduce the risk of damaging the Pro64 product’s
rear panel.

Alternate Input

The DB25 Audio Thru connections can also be used as an optional main input
path. Signals connected to the DB25 connections will be metered and can be
made active on the network in the same manner as the XLR inputs.

Do not use the XLR jacks and DB25 Alternate In connections for inputs to the
same set of channels on the 6416i simultaneously.

31re A r PA N e l Fe A t u r e s

Virtual Data Cables

Three types of Virtual Data Cable (VDC) ports are available on the rear panel
of the 6416i Input Module. Fourteen VDC Slots are available system‑wide,
regardless of the current network mode (Auto or Manual). Virtual Data Cables
are not affected by the network sample rate, channel activation settings, or
gain settings.

When a module requests to activate a Virtual Data Cable, the Control Master
checks the entire network to ensure that the requested VDC is available.
Depending on the type of VDC requested, one or more VDC Slots must be
available before the request can be granted.

When a VDC Slot has a valid input assignment, the Control Master broadcasts
this information to the entire network. Each module in the network will
display the In Use LED for any valid Virtual Data Cable input.

See the VDC info (page 33) for help configuring and using the fourteen
available Virtual Data Cables.

GPIO

GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) can be used to send contact closure
or voltage‑type control signals through the network. Four input and four
output blocks are provided. Each terminal block can be individually wired.
GPIO inputs can be individually configured to be either Isolated or TTL.

GPIO Configuration DIP Switches

Each of the four GPIO Input blocks can be set to either Isolated or TTL
operation using the configuration switches to the left of the terminal blocks.

The Isolated/ TTL conguration switches only apply to the GPIO inputs.

With the switch in the down position, the input is set to TTL. Use this setting
for voltage‑type signals. GPIO inputs set for TTL operation can handle signal
voltages up to 5 Volts.

The up position (Isolated) sets the input to accept on/off switch signals. Do
not use the Isolated setting with voltage-based signals.

32vi r t u A l dA t A c Ab l e s

See the GPIO Specifications later in this document for additional configuration
information.

GPIO Terminal Blocks

Each GPIO input or output has a positive and negative contact that can
be wired as needed. Four of each are provided. Only a small screwdriver is
required.

MIDI In, MIDI Out

Two MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) ports, In and Out, are provided
on the 6416i. Each is capable of transferring any type of MIDI‑compatible
data. Pro64 devices do not process or filter MIDI data in any way.

Both MIDI por ts in the VDC section can be used simultaneously.

One MIDI In per Pro64 device can be assigned to a VDC Slot. An unlimited
number of Pro64 modules can make use of the MIDI data by assigning MIDI
Out to the VDC Slot with the same number as the input source.

Configuring a MIDI VDC

To assign a VDC to use the MIDI In port on the 6416i, first select an available
VDC Slot using the inc/dec buttons below the VDC Slot readout. (VDC Slots
with inputs that are currently in use will have the In Use dot lit.) Use the
selector button to choose MIDI In from the Assign Port list. The MIDI In and
Enter/Cancel LEDs will flash. Press the En t E r button to assign the port, or
Ca n C E l to exit.

To output the MIDI data from the 6416i elsewhere in the network, select the
same VDC Slot on the remote Pro64 device. Set the remote device’s VDC type
in the Assign Port list to be MIDI Out. Repeat this step on any other Pro64
module that needs to output the same MIDI data.

33vi r t u A l dA t A c Ab l e s

VDC Slot 14 on the 6416i
is set to receive MIDI In
from the rear-panel jack.

A remote Pro6 4 device
set to output MIDI data.

RS-232 Port

The Pro64 RS‑232 VDC ports allow a pair of devices to transfer control data
at rates up to 57.6k baud across the Pro64 network. Using Virtual Data Cables
for RS‑232 always requires two VDCs because RS‑232 data transfers requires
communicating devices to be set up in a handshaking pair. Note that RS‑232
communication is point‑to‑point, meaning that a maximum of seven RS‑232
sessions (14 total devices) is possible when using Pro64 Virtual Data Cables.

The rst eight switches on the DIP switch block are used to set the R S-232
baud rate.

The RS‑232 port is also used for computer communication for software
updates and other Managed Mode applications.

The RS‑232 port on the 6416i uses a 9‑pin DB9 connector and eight of the
ten DIP switches in the DIP switch block (the remainder are used for system
functions).

34vi r t u A l dA t A cA b l e s

RS-232 Configuration DIP Switches

RS‑232 communication is configured using the first eight switches in the DIP
switch block. Switches 1‑4 set the baud rate and switches 5‑9 are used to set
data, parity, and stop bit options. Switches 9 and 10 are reserved for system
use.

Switch Function Off On

1 Baud Rate bit 3

2 Baud Rate bit 2

3 Baud Rate bit 1

4 Baud Rate bit 0

5 Data Bits 7 8

6 Parity Low/High No parity Parity

7 Parity Even/Odd Even Odd

8 Stop Bit 1 2

9 Reserved

10 Control Master

To set a DIP switch to the On position, push it upwards.

See Baud Rate chart

RS-232 Baud Rates

To set a baud rate, determine the appropriate baud rate for data transfer
by referring to the external send/receive devices’ documentation. Set both
devices to communicate using the same baud rate. Finally, set the Pro64
devices to the same baud rate and activate the VDCs using the front‑panel
interface.

Here, the 6416i is set for a 57,600 baud RS -232 transfer with 8 data bits, no
parity, and stop bit set to 2. (Black indicates the DIP switch handle.)

35vi r t u A l dA t A c Ab l e s

The following table lists the DIP switch settings for the available RS‑232 baud
rates.

Switch

Baud Rate 1 2 3 4

120 0 off off off off

2400 off off off on

4800 off off on off

7200 off off on on

9600 off on off off

144 00 off on off on

1920 0 off on on off

28800 off on on on

38400 on off off off

5760 0 on off off on

31250 (MIDI) on off on off

Control Master DIP Switch

In the RS‑232 DIP switch block on the 6416i, switch #10 is used to set the
module as the network’s Control Master. Only one module can be designated
as Control Master in a Pro64 network.

When switch #10 is in the up position, the 6416i becomes the network ’s
Control Master. (Black indicates the DIP switch handle.)

To set the 6416i as the Control Master, start with Pro64 network devices
powered off. Set switch #10 to the up position. Power up the 6416i and the
rest of the network devices. The red Control Master LED on the front panel of
the 6416i should be lit indicating that it is now the network’s Control Master.

 No t e : Be sure that only one Pro64 device is set to be the network Control

Master.

36vi r t u A l dA t A c Ab l e s

Building a Pro64 Network

Configuring a Pro64 network with the 6416i involves connecting input and
output modules with Cat‑5e cables, setting A‑Net Slot ranges, and activating
input channels.

Choosing a Network Mode

When designing a digital snake or network, deciding which network mode
to use—Auto or Manual—can be made simpler by assessing the total audio
channel requirements for an application at a given sample rate first.

If you want to build a 48kHz system, for example, that requires no more than
64 total audio channels, choose Auto Mode; this is the easiest to implement.
The network takes care of most of the management tasks automatically.

If the system is larger than 64 channels at 48kHz—for example, a 56x16 digital
snake for a live performance stage to front‑of‑house application—choose
Manual Mode. Pro64’s Manual Mode offers the most flexibility but requires
more care when connecting modules and configuring input routing.

Connecting Pro64 Modules

Start by setting one (and only one) device to be the network’s Control
Master. Because there are some operations that can only be executed at the
Control Master, be sure that the module designated as the Control Master
is accessible. Once all modules in the network are enumerated (indicated
by illuminated A‑Net LEDs), choose a network mode (Auto/Manual), set
A‑Net Slot ranges on each module, and activate audio channels and VDCs
as needed.

When adding input modules to an existing audio network running in
Manual Mode, it is best to add modules that are not pre‑configured with
active channels and/or VDC Slots in use to avoid unwanted overwriting of
A‑Net Slots. Pro64 output modules’ audio channel on/off settings do not
cause conflicts with the allocation of audio input resources but existing
VDC settings on these modules can impact the network. It’s best to clear old
settings before adding modules to a system.

Basic Routing

To make use of the audio inputs connected to the 6416i, the module must
be connected to another Pro64 device somewhere in the network that can
output its digital data. This Pro64 device can be a standalone analog or
digital module or a console interface card.

9bui l d iN g A Pr o 64 N e t w o r k

The diagrams that follow use generic input and output module icons. Any

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

Pro64 I/O device can be substituted unless otherwise noted.

Auto Mode Connections

In Auto Mode, the 6416i’s A‑Net ports on the rear panel can be connected in
any combination to other Pro64 devices. In the following examples, network
performance and functionality are unaffected by the changes in cabling.

Example 1: Port A connected to Port B

The Cat-5 A-Net cable can be connec ted to either Port A or Port B. Reversing
the A-Net connections causes the same results. Either port can be used to
expand the network.

Up to 16 analog audio inputs can be activated on the 6416i Input Module.
Pro64 devices can be connected to the 6416i using either Port A or Port B; the
same active channels will be available at the output module.

Remember that the entire 64‑channel A‑Net stream (at 48kHz) is always
received and transmitted through every Pro64 module. The A‑Net Slot
selection simply tunes a module in to a specific range of channels.

10bu il d i Ng A Pr o 6 4 Ne t w o r k

Example 2: Port B connected to Port A

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

In this diagram, note that additional Pro64 modules c an be connected to any
available por t as indicated by the dotted line.

The same results can be achieved by connecting Port A on the input module
to Port A on the output module and by connecting Port B on the input
module to Port B on the output module.

Digital Copies in Auto Mode

Any number of digital copies (also referred to as digital splits) can be created
by simply connecting additional Pro64 output devices and setting them
to the same A‑Net Slot range as the source. In Auto Mode, the order and
location of the modules in the network does not matter; output modules can
be connected before or after any input module. Optionally, Pro64 modules
can be connected in parallel via a Pro64 merger hub such as the MH10 .

Any Pro64 input and output modules that are set to the same A‑Net Slot
range can input or output data, making the configuration of large networks
straightforward.

11bu i l di N g A Pr o 64 N e t w o r k

Example 3: One input module and three digital copies in Auto Mode

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

In this example, note that the A-Net connections between devices c an use
any combination of the A and B ports. Any open port c an be used to connect
additional Pr o64 devices to expand the system.

The order of the Pro64 modules connected in series in Example 3 above can
be changed without affecting the ability of the network to distribute the
same incoming audio channels to all three output modules shown. A‑Net
ports always transmit and receive the entire network (audio and VDC data)
at all times.

The rules are the same when larger networks are created. Simply set different
A‑Net base Slots on the I/O modules to use more A‑Net Slots as needed.
Cables can be connected to any available A‑Net port, A or B. Remember that
in Auto Mode that the maximum number of active input channels at 48kHz
will be 64.

Adding a Merger Hub in Auto Mode

For more wiring options, an A‑Net Merger Hub such as the MH10 or MH10f
can be added to a network. Using a merger hub enables parallel connection
of A‑Net devices. Multiple merger hubs can be used to simplify rack wiring
and the distribution of digital signals amongst the various subsections of a
digital audio network.

 No t e : Standard Ethernet networking products are not compatible with

Pro64 products. Use only Pro64 A‑Net compatible devices.

12bu i ld i N g A Pr o 64 Ne t w o r k

Example 4: One input module and three output modules connected using an

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

1 2

Merger

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

B A

Input

MH10 in Auto Mode

In Auto Mode, modules can be connec ted to any port on the MH10.

Note that in the example, it does not matter which A‑Net port (A or B) on the
I/O modules is connected to the MH10. Likewise, on the MH10, the choice of
A‑Net port (1 through 10) does not matter. Any audio channel inputs made
active on the 6416i in the diagram will be available to all output modules.

Manual Mode Connections

When creating bidirectional networks that require more than 64 channels
(at 48kHz), Manual Mode is the answer. Unlike Auto Mode, Manual Mode
requires that the user pay attention to which A‑Net port (A or B) is used
when connecting network cables to each module. As implemented in the
Pro64 Series of products, A‑Net is a truly bidirectional stream of up to 64x64
channels at all times.

In the examples that follow, the diagrams will indicate the specific A‑Net port
on an I/O module that is in use with a square as shown below. Input modules
such as the 6416i can send active audio channels to Port A, Port B, or both
Ports A and B.

Port A is being used to send active audio inputs into the network, indicated
by the square sur rounding the “A” Port.

13bu i ld i N g A Pr o 64 Ne t w o r k

Example 5: One input module and two output modules in Manual Mode

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

The input module transmits it s audio data via Port A (marked with a square
surrounding the port name). Only the lower Pro64 output module can make
use of those audio channels.

In the example above, showing three modules in the middle of a network, the
input module in the center of the diagram is set to transmit its active audio
data to Port A, using the A‑Net Slot range starting at 1. The output module
below it is set to listen to any A‑Net data that arrives on its Port B. The output
module at the top of the diagram is set to listen to data arriving at its Port A.

Since the input module is directing its data to Port A, only the bottom
module can output the audio channels made active on the input module.
Again, the example assumes that all modules are set to the same A‑Net Slot
range. Remember that all network audio is always transmitted and received
at each A‑Net port. The module’s Slot Range selection simply tunes into a
specific range of channels.

14bu il d i N g A Pr o 64 Ne t w o r k

Example 6: Two input modules and two output modules, 16x16

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

Audio from the Pro64 input mo dule at the bottom of the diagram is heard at
the output module shown at the top of the diagram.

In this example, two input modules are set to the same A‑Net Slot range (01).
Both modules are set to transmit their A‑Net data out of Port A. Unique data
flows in each direction in a 16x16 configuration. Each output module will
receive data from only one of the input modules in the configuration.

The next example refines this drawing by adding specific locations for the
modules in a traditional stage‑to‑FOH snake system.

15bu i ld i N g A Pr o 64 Ne t w o r k

Example 7: Audio from the Stage is output at the front-of-house mixing console;

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

audio from the FOH console is output on the stage.

STAG E

FRONT OF HOUSE

The dotted arrows show the relationship of the input and output modules.

By defining the uses of the audio data from the two input modules in the
previous example as Stage and FOH, the picture is clearer. Audio from the
input module seen at the bottom of the diagram (at FOH) travels up through
all the modules in the network; its audio is available at the output module at
the top of the diagram.

Audio from the input module on the stage travels through the network
to the FOH position where it is output to the mixing console by the Pro64
output module there.

16bu il d i Ng A Pr o 6 4 Ne t w o r k

Digital Copies in Manual Mode

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

Creating a digital split in Manual Mode follows most of the rules defined for
Auto Mode splits. Any output modules connected in series to an existing
output module can output the same audio as long as the A‑Net Slot range
and A‑Net Receive Port settings are configured properly, and as long as no
input modules installed overwrite the audio. However, the location of the
Pro64 output modules used for the splits will impact the front‑panel transmit
port settings of the input modules.

Example 8: Adding a digital split of the FOH signals

STAG E

FRONT OF HOUSE

RECORDING

The input module at FOH transmit s its audio data out of both A-Net ports,
providing a digital split.

17bu i ld i N g A Pr o 64 Ne t w o r k

In the previous example of a stage and front‑of‑house system, adding a
digital copy of the FOH engineer’s inputs for a recording system can be
accomplished by connecting Pro64 output modules to the input module at
front‑of‑house. Unlike Auto Mode, however, this input module needs to be
set to send audio data to its A‑Net Port B in order to make the digital split
work.

The example assumes that all modules are set to the same A‑Net Slot range.
By setting the FOH input module to transmit its A‑Net data to Port A and B,
the A‑Net data flows in two directions. Digital audio arriving at the front‑of‑
house location from the stage is replaced by the input module at FOH.

To send the stage audio to the recording system instead, set the input module
at front‑of‑house to transmit its data out Port A only. By doing this, the audio
from the stage flows through all the modules to the recording system.

18bu il d i Ng A Pr o 6 4 Ne t w o r k

Example 9: A digital copy of the stage signals

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Input

B A

Output

STAG E

FRONT OF HOUSE

RECORDING

By changing the A‑Net transmit port settings on the input module at front‑
of‑house, audio from the stage can be output in the recording area.

The input module at the front-of-house position is set to transmit it s A-Net
data out of Por t A only. The dotted lines show the re lationship of the input
and output mo dules.

19bu il d i N g A Pr o 64 Ne t w o r k

Specifications

Audio Channels 16, line‑level

XLR Input (line level) Pin 1: Ground; Pin 2: Hot ; Pin 3: Cold ;

Audio Thru 2 DB25 connector, passive split;

Alternate Inputs DB25 can be used as alternate audio input

DB25 connector Thread size is #4‑40 UNC

Audio Metering 3 LED: Green ‑40dB; Yellow ‑10dB; Red 0dB

A-Net I/O 2 EtherCon RJ45 connectors

Sample
Rates

Sample Rate Range,
Pro64

Bit Depth 24‑bit resolution

Latency Total latency is less than 800μs (measured

Cable Length, Cat-5e Maximum 400 feet (120 meters);

Input Impedance 3k ohms

Operating Level 0dB = +4dBu

Gain Range ‑14dB, ‑6dB, 0dB, +6dB

Maximum Input Level +18 d Bu

Frequency Response
(at 48kHz)

THD +N <0.002% at ‑10dBFS

Crosstalk <100dB at 1kHz

A/D 44.1/48kHz; 88.2/96kHz; 176.4/192kHz

balanced

Analog audio pinout on DB25

1x 44.1/48kHz, 39.7kHz to 52kHz
2x 88.2/96kHz, 79.4kHz to 104kHz
4x 17 6. 4/ 192 kH z , 158.8kHz to 208kHz

from analog in to analog out).

Use Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cable

4‑position switch

‑3dB at 2Hz and 23kHz
± .5dB 3.0Hz–22kHz (at 1x sample rate)

Signal to Noise Ratio
(unweighted)

‑11 4 dB

12sP e c i F i c A t i o N s

Virtual Data Cables (VDC)

GPIO 4x in; 4x out Isolated or TTL

Inputs: 4 terminal blocks, individually
configurable as Isolated or TTL

Outputs: 4 terminal blocks

Maximum inputs to network VDC slots: 14

MIDI In, Out 5‑pin DIN

Maximum inputs to network VDC slots: 14

RS -232 DB9 connector DIP switch configured

RS-232
Baud
Rates:

1200, 2400, 4800, 7200, 9600, 14400,
19200, 28800, 38400, 57600,
31250 (preset for MIDI)

Maximum inputs to network VDC slots: 7

Power Supply 100‑240VAC 50‑60Hz, 24W

Internal switching power supply;
IEC connector, interchangeable

Maximum Ambient
Temperature

50°C

Fuse F4AL

Dimensions 2U; 19”w x 8”d x 3.5”h;

482.6 x 203 x 88 mm

Weight 9 pounds;

4.1 kg

All Aviom products are designed and manufactured in the USA.

13sP e c i F i c A t i o N s

Dimensions

14sP e c i F i c A t i o N s

Gain

+6dB

0dB

-6dB

-14dB

RS-232

MIDI In

MIDI Out

GPIO

DB25 Female (x2)

Audio Thru 1-8, 9-16

XLR/TRS (x16)

Audio Input 1-16

A-Net

A/D

converter

Signal -10dB Clip

Virtual

Data

Cables

User

Config.

Settings

to/from

network

6416i Block Diagram

4sP e c i F i c A t i o N s

GPIO Specifications

The following table lists the specifications for the General Purpose
Input/Output (GPIO) terminal blocks found on Pro64 Series products.

INPUT
MODE Parameter Conditions Symbol Rating

Input isolation to
chassis

TTL

Use only with on/off switch‑type signals.

ISOLATED

Input Voltage Minimum VIL 2V

Maximum VIH1 17 V

Bandwidth BW 200 Hz

Output Current
(Continuous)

Outputs are
overcurrent
protected with
PTCs.

Output Current
(Peak)

Output isolation to

ISOLATED/TTL

chassis

Output On‑State
Resistance

Output Breakdown
Volt age

PW=100 msec (1 shot) Ifp 1.5A

IL = 500 mA Ron 0.85 ‑ 2.5 ohms

Rin iso 1 Mohms

IL2 330 mA

Rout iso 1.00E+09 ohms

Vbr 60V

Ratings subject to change without notice.
Inputs are reverse polarity protected up to 17VDC.

78sP e c i F i c A t i o N s

GPIO Plugs

Plugs used with the GPIO terminal blocks have the following specifications.

Pitch 3.81 mm

Number of positions 8

Type of connection Screw

Screw thread M 2

Conductor cross section AWG/
kcmil

Plugs used with Pro64 products are compatible with Phoenix
Contact™, part number 1803633, or equivalent.

minimum 28 maximum 16

MIDI/GPIO Cable Lengths

To meet the EN55103‑2 (Electromagnetic Susceptibility/Immunity)
Specification, any cables connected to the MIDI and/or GPIO ports must not
exceed three meters in length. Use of cables longer than three meters will
not guarantee equipment conformance to EN55103‑2.

Factory Default Settings

When a Pro64 module is reset to the factory default settings using Function
16, the following settings are restored:

A‑Net Slot is set to 1.•
Auto Mode is selected.•

• Sample Rate is set to 48kHz.
All audio channels are muted and deactivated for • Auto,

Manual, and Managed Modes.
All stereo links are deactivated for Auto, Manual, and •

Managed Modes.
Managed Mode is deactivated.•

• Edit Lock is set to off.

• Password protect is off.

The system • password value for the module being reset is
“1‑1‑1‑1.”

All Virtual Data Cables are deactivated.•

79sP e c i F i c A t i o N s

Index

Symbols

6416Y2 A‑Net Interface 51

A

A‑16II, A‑16R

Personal Mixers 5
About A‑Net 3
AC fuse

changing 56
AC Line Conditioning 6
AC Power 56
Active button 33
active channel 12, 27, 29, 30, 33, 47, 68
active channels

clear 30
Adding Pro64 Modules 49
AES3 51
AES3 (AES/EBU) 27, 57
AES/EBU 51
alternate audio input

DB25 75
Alternate In 1, 58

DB25 57
analog input

Level Meters 30
analog I/O 50
analog switches

gain 32
A‑Net 1

Pro64 Series 3

Slot assignment 54
A‑Net Distributor 5
A‑Net LED 20, 24, 49
A‑Net Port 66, 69, 72

A or B 68

Manual Mode 68
A‑Net Ports 4, 17, 56

A and B 23
A‑Net Receive 52, 72
A‑Net Slot 11, 15, 17, 28, 29, 51

inc/dec buttons 13

Query Functions 33

unavailable, in Auto Mode 30
A‑Net Slot Conguration 19, 25
A‑Net Slot Display 13, 14, 25

during software update 45

A‑Net Slot number 33
A‑Net Slot range 26, 69

selecting 13
A‑Net Transmit 26, 52
A‑Net Transmit Port

changing 27
A Port 56
arrows

up/down, inc/dec 8
ASI A‑Net Systems Interface 5
Assign a VDC input 36
Assign a VDC output 36
Assign Port

VDC 34, 36
Audio Metering 75
Audio Thru 75

DB25 22, 57
Auto LED 26
Auto/Manual mode LEDs 53
Auto/Manual Mode Selection 19, 52
Auto Mode 4, 17, 30, 47

active channels 30

Available A‑Net Slots 12, 17

Merger Hub 67
Auto Mode Connections 65
Aux Input

DB25 58
Available A‑Net Slots 17

B

Balanced Inputs 56
base Slot 25
Baud Rates 43, 76

DIP switch 63

RS‑232 62–63
bench congure 24
bidirectional 4, 68
Bit Depth 75
Block Diagram 78
blue A‑Net LED 49
BNC Word Clock jack 51
B Port 56
Button Presses 8

3iN d e x

C

Cable Length

MIDI, GPIO 80

Cables

Cat‑5e, Cat‑6 3
cable specication, Cat‑5e 8
Cancel button 20, 49
Cat‑5

stranded vs. solid 8
Cat‑5e 1, 8

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) 8
Cat‑5e Cable Distance 3
Cat‑6 8
Certications ii
Changing the Sample Rate 52
Changing Values 8
Channel 11

Slot assignment 54
Channel Activation Button 19, 29, 40
Channel Activation Rules 30
channel info 54
Channel Level Meters 30
channel pairing. See Channel Link
channel range 65
channels

clear 39
Channel‑Slot relationship 13
Cleaning 7
clear active channels 30
Clear A‑Net Resources 38, 39
Clip LED 31
Clock 3

external 28

jitter and wander 3
Clock Errors 51
Clock Master 4, 10, 27, 28, 29, 47, 50,

51, 52

reset 45
Clock Master LED 27, 50, 51
Clock Source 51

AES/EBU 51

External 51

Sample Rate 48

Word Clock 51
compatibility

Pro16 5
computer 43
conguration

Auto Mode 66
Conguring a Network 64
Connecting Pro64 Modules 64

console interface card 64
Control Data 4
Control Master 10, 17, 24, 30, 32, 39, 47,

53, 63
assigning 48
Clock 48
DIP switch 24, 48
password 40
reset 45
Sample Alignment Lock 41

Control Master DIP Switch 23, 63
Control Master Errors 25
Control Master LED 20, 47, 63
control signals 34

GPIO 59

D

Data Bits 62
DB9 76

RS‑232 61–63

DB9 cable

null modem 43

DB25 1, 58

Alternate In 57
as Aux Input 58
strain relief 58

DB25 Audio Thru 22, 57
DB25 connector 75
DB25 connector thread 58
DB25 Pinout 57
Default Settings 45, 80
default value 40
Digital Copies 66

Manual Mode 72

digital I/O 27, 50, 51
digital module 51
digital split 72
Dimensions 76, 77
DIP switch 22, 54

Baud Rates 63
Control Master 24, 45, 48, 63
GPIO 59–63
GPIO, RS‑232 22
RS‑232 48, 61–63

DIP Switches 9

E

Edit Lock 32, 45, 55, 80

Managed Mode 33
VDC query 33

Edit Lock Button 20, 33

4iN d e x

Enter button 20, 49
Enter/Cancel button 8, 10, 24
Enter/Cancel LED 11, 49, 53
Enumeration 25, 48, 64
Error Recovery

Software Update 44
EtherCon 1, 8, 23, 56
Ethernet 3

compatibility 67
External Clock 28. See also Clock

F

Factory Default settings 45
Factory Default Settings 80
ber 3
rmware update 24, 38, 43

Error Recovery 44
FOH snake 17
Frequency Response 75
Front Panel Components 19
front panel lock 33
Function

Clear A‑Net Resources 38

Operating System Update 38

Password Lock/Unlock 38

Restore Factory Defaults 38, 45

Set New Password 38
Function 01 39
Function 09 39
Function 10 40
Function 11 41, 42
Function 12 41, 42
Function 13 42
Function 14 42
Function 15 43
Function 16 45
Function Button 19, 38
Function List 38
Fuse 76

AC 56
Fuse Holder 21

G

Gain 33
Gain Range 75
gain settings 54
Gain Switch 19, 32
Gain switches

edit lock 33
GPIO 34, 36, 46, 59–63, 76

Cable Length 80

DIP Switch 59–63
General Purpose I/O 4
isolated 79
reset 46
Specications 79

TTL 79
GPIO Conguration DIP Switches 59
GPIO DIP Switches 22
GPIO Plugs 79
GPIO Specications 60
GPIO Terminal Blocks 22

H

Hub

MH10 67

I

IEC connector 76
IEC power cord 56
IEC Power Inlet 21
inc/dec buttons 8, 25

A‑Net Slot 13
Input Gain 32
Input Impedance 75
Input Level

Maximum 75
inputs 64
Interface Conventions 8
Internal Clock 51. See also Clock
In Use LED

VDC 36, 60
Isolated 46, 76

GPIO 59, 79

J

jitter 3

L

Latency 75
LED 75
Level Meter

analog input 30

LEDs 19, 30
line‑level 32
Line‑Level Inputs 21, 56
Link button 31
lock the network 39

5iN d e x

M

Managed button 20, 32, 53, 54
Managed Mode 33, 34, 39, 53

enter/exit 32
Manual LED 27
Manual Mode 4, 17, 26, 30, 47, 68

active channels 30

Available A‑Net Slots 12, 18
Master Clock 50, 51. See also Clock
Maximum Input Level 75
Merger 67
MH10f 3
MH10 Merger Hub 66
mic‑level signal 56
MIDI 4, 22, 34, 76

Cable Length 80

Conguring VDC 60–63
MIDI In 60
MIDI In/Out 36
MIDI Out 60
Mode Selection 52
Monitor Mixing System

Pro16 5
Mounting, Rack 6
multipin

DB25 57
muted audio 25

N

Network

conguring 64
network audio resource 11
Network Mode 10, 17, 47, 53, 64

Auto/Manual 52

defaults 45, 80
Neutrik EtherCon. See Ether Con
null modem cable 54

DB9 43, 54
numbered channel buttons

password 40

O

Operating Level 75
output module 66, 72

P

parallel 3
parity 62
passive split 75

Password 32, 38, 47

default 40
Edit Lock button 39
reset 45, 80

Set New Password 38, 40
Password Lock 39
Password Protection 45, 54, 80
Password Unlock 39
PC 43

connecting, Managed Mode 54

software update 43
Personal Mixer

A‑16II, A‑16R 5
Pinout

DB25 57
Plugs

GPIO 79
Port 17
Port A and B 27
Port A, B 66, 68. See A-Net Por ts
port assignments

VDC 33
Port LED 27
Ports

A‑Net 4
Power On/O Switch 21
Power Supply 56, 76
Pro16 Series 5
Pro64 3
Pro64 Modules 49
Pro64 Series 13
Pro64 Update Tool 43, 44

Q

query

channel and VDC info 54
Query Functions 34

A‑Net Slot, VDC 33

Edit Lock 33

in Managed Mode 33

R

Rear Panel Components 21
Restore Factory Defaults 38, 45
RJ45 1, 8
RoHS ii
routing

I/O hardware 13
RS‑232 4, 22, 34, 36, 43, 46, 76

and Managed Mode 32

and software update 43

6iN d e x

DB9 61–63
DB9 null modem cable 54

null modem cable 43
RS‑232 Baud Rates 43, 62–63
RS‑232 DIP Switches 22, 48, 61–63
RS‑232 Port 61
RS‑422 4

S

Sample Alignment 40
Sample Alignment Lock 41, 42
Sample Rate 3, 12, 18, 19, 28, 29, 42, 47,

51, 75
A‑Net Slots 51
available A‑Net Slots 12
changing 28, 52
Clock 48
default 45, 80
minimum/maximum 3, 28

sample rate conversion 4
sample rate converter 28
sample rate LED 13
Sample Rate LED 52
Sample Rate Range 75
Selecting Values 9
selection button 9
serial 3
Set New Password 38, 40
signal present LED 30
Signal to Noise Ratio 75
slave module 25
Slot 5, 11

base 25
VDC 59

Slot assignment 14

channel 54

Slot Conguration 19
Slot range 15, 26
Slot range display 12
Slots 11, 13, 51

available 18
per Sample Rate 12

Slots versus Channels 11
Specications 75
split 66, 72
stage‑to‑FOH snake 17
Stereo Link 47
Stereo Link Button 19, 31
stop bit 62
stored value 40, 41
Strain relief

DB25 58

stranded vs. solid Cat‑5 8
system examples 65, 68, 69, 72, 74
system‑wide changes 49

T

Terminal Blocks 76

GPIO 60

Terminal Block Specs

GPIO 80
THD 75
thread type

DB25 connector 58
TTL 46, 76

GPIO 59, 79

U

unbalanced audio signal 56
Unlock network 39
Unshielded Twisted Pair 8

UTP 75
Update

Operating System 38, 43
Update Tool 43
up/down, inc/dec

arrows 8
UPS 6
User Interface 10
UTP 8
UTP cable

Cat‑5e, Cat‑6 3

V

VDC

Assign Port 34, 36

clear 39

DIP switches 48

In Use dot 60

In Use LED 36

Query Functions 33

reset 46
VDC Conguration 20
VDC inputs 37
VDC In Use LED 35, 36
VDC outputs 37
VDC Slot 10, 34, 59

assigning 36

selecting 35

unassigning 37
VDC Slot display 34

during software update 44

7iN d e x

Ventilation 7
Virtual Data Cable Ports 22, 59
Virtual Data Cables 4, 47, 76

W

wander 3
Weight 76
word clock 27, 51

X

XLR 12, 21, 57, 75
XLR line‑level inputs 56, 56–63, 58

Y

yellow channel meter LEDs 41

8iN d e x

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