Operation Manual
Operation Manual
Lake® Controller
+ Lake Update & Preset Manager
Rev 1.5.4
Item no. OM-LC
Table of Contents
1. Welcome ...................................................................................................................................................1
1.1 Important Information ..........................................................................................................................1
1.2 Introduction ..........................................................................................................................................1
1.3 Controller Overview ............................................................................................................................. 2
1.4 Manual Overview ................................................................................................................................. 2
2. Software Installation .............................................................................................................................. 5
2.1 Computer Requirements ......................................................................................................................5
2.2 Lake Controller Installation ................................................................................................................. 10
2.3 Moving User Files between Installations ........................................................................................... 11
3. Network & Firewall Overview .............................................................................................................. 12
3.1 Ethernet Overview ............................................................................................................................. 12
3.2 Firewall Conguration......................................................................................................................... 13
3.3 IP Address Conguration ...................................................................................................................14
3.4 Wired Network Setup ........................................................................................................................17
3.5 Wireless Network Setup .................................................................................................................... 19
3.6 Dante Digital Audio Networking .........................................................................................................22
4. Lake Controller Tutorial ........................................................................................................................27
4.1 Starting the Lake Controller ...............................................................................................................27
4.2 Overview of Main Page Components ................................................................................................ 28
4.3 Modules and Frames .........................................................................................................................30
4.4 Equalization ........................................................................................................................................46
4.5 Crossovers .........................................................................................................................................54
4.6 Groups ................................................................................................................................................ 57
4.7 Lake Controller File Types .................................................................................................................. 58
5. Home Menu Reference .......................................................................................................................... 61
5.1 Main Screen Home Menu .................................................................................................................. 61
5.2 Accessing EQ/Levels from HOME .....................................................................................................63
6. EQ/Levels Menu Reference ..................................................................................................................64
6.1 EQ/Levels Overview ..........................................................................................................................64
6.2 Levels ................................................................................................................................................. 67
6.3 EQ ...................................................................................................................................................... 74
6.4 Crossovers and HPF/LPF ...................................................................................................................87
6.5 Auxiliary Output Channels ................................................................................................................100
7. System Store Recall Menu Reference ............................................................................................... 108
7.1 System Store Recall Navigation .......................................................................................................108
7.2 Shortcut to Data/User Folder ........................................................................................................... 108
7.3 Recall as New System—Open ........................................................................................................109
7.4 Recall as Subsystem ........................................................................................................................109
7.5 Recall Compare ................................................................................................................................ 109
7.6 Recall as Virtual Sub System (SS) .................................................................................................... 110
7.7 Store System .....................................................................................................................................111
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
i
7.8 Store Subsystem ...............................................................................................................................111
7.9 File Utilities ........................................................................................................................................111
7.10 System Presets ............................................................................................................................... 113
8. Modules Menu Reference ................................................................................................................... 117
8.1 EQ/Levels ......................................................................................................................................... 117
8.2 I/O Cong ......................................................................................................................................... 117
8.3 Label & Lock ....................................................................................................................................148
8.4 Copy/Paste/Replace ......................................................................................................................... 149
8.5 Remove ............................................................................................................................................ 153
8.6 Module Store/Recall ......................................................................................................................... 153
8.7 Add Page .......................................................................................................................................... 158
8.8 Super Modules (LM & PLM Series only) .........................................................................................158
9. Module File Types & Lake LoadLibrary™ ..........................................................................................162
9.1 Module Types Overview .................................................................................................................. 162
9.2 Supplementary Module Data ........................................................................................................... 162
9.3 Module Type Abbreviations..............................................................................................................163
9.4 Classic Crossovers/Auxiliary Outputs ...............................................................................................164
9.5 Linear Phase Crossovers ..................................................................................................................169
9.6 FIR Module [Lake-enabled Ampliers Only] .................................................................................... 171
9.7 Mesa EQ Module ............................................................................................................................. 173
9.8 Lake LoadLibrary .............................................................................................................................. 173
9.9 Additional Information ...................................................................................................................... 173
10. Groups Menu Reference ..................................................................................................................... 174
10.1 Adding a Group ................................................................................................................................ 174
10.2 EQ/Levels ......................................................................................................................................... 175
10.3 Assign ............................................................................................................................................. 175
10.4 Label ................................................................................................................................................176
10.5 Copy/Paste ....................................................................................................................................... 176
10.6 Remove ............................................................................................................................................ 177
10.7 Gang ................................................................................................................................................. 177
10.8 Add Page .........................................................................................................................................178
11. Solo/Mute Menu Reference ...............................................................................................................179
11.1 EQ/Levels ......................................................................................................................................... 179
11.2 Solo/Mute Enable ............................................................................................................................179
11.3 Pile ...................................................................................................................................................180
11.4 All Mute ............................................................................................................................................180
12. Icon Control Menu Reference .............................................................................................................181
12.1 Meters On/Off ................................................................................................................................. 181
12.2 Icon Small/Normal/Medium/Large ................................................................................................... 181
12.3 Global Status Indicator ..................................................................................................................... 181
13. User Preferences Menu Reference ....................................................................................................182
13.1 Contexts .......................................................................................................................................... 182
13.2 Delay Units ....................................................................................................................................... 182
13.3 Designer Functions ..........................................................................................................................183
13.4 Keyboard Shortcuts .......................................................................................................................... 184
ii
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
13.5 About ...............................................................................................................................................184
13.6 Graphics ...........................................................................................................................................184
13.7 Show Mode ......................................................................................................................................185
14. Pages Menu Reference ........................................................................................................................ 186
14.1 Cut Icon ........................................................................................................................................... 186
14.2 Copy Icon ........................................................................................................................................ 187
14.3 Paste Icon ........................................................................................................................................187
14.4 Page Label ......................................................................................................................................187
14.5 Page Delete .....................................................................................................................................188
14.6 Page Add ..........................................................................................................................................188
14.7 Page Hide .........................................................................................................................................188
14.8 Scrolling Pages ................................................................................................................................. 188
15. Network Menu Reference ................................................................................................................... 189
15.1 Network ...........................................................................................................................................189
15.2 Multiple Controllers ..........................................................................................................................190
15.3 Working Ofine ............................................................................................................................... 192
16. Communication and Synchronization ..............................................................................................194
16.1 Ofine Modules ............................................................................................................................... 194
16.2 Communication/Network Errors ......................................................................................................194
16.3 Synchronization ................................................................................................................................195
17. Faults and Warnings ............................................................................................................................200
17.1 Faults and Warnings Indication ........................................................................................................200
18. Analyzer Plug-in ................................................................................................................................... 202
18.1 Overview ..........................................................................................................................................202
18.2 System Requirements ......................................................................................................................203
18.3 Analyzer Plug-in Quick Start Guide ..................................................................................................204
18.4 Function Reference ..........................................................................................................................205
19. Designer Mode Menu Reference........................................................................................................215
19.1 Designer Mode Basics ..................................................................................................................... 215
19.2 Designer Mode Security .................................................................................................................. 218
19.3 Functional Reference Guide ............................................................................................................. 229
19.4 Designer Worksheets .......................................................................................................................236
20. Lake-enabled Amplier Reference ....................................................................................................242
20.1 Signal Flow ...................................................................................................................................... 242
20.2 Monitoring & Control ........................................................................................................................243
20.3 Lake LoadLibrary™ ..........................................................................................................................243
20.4 LoadSmart™ ....................................................................................................................................243
20.5 Navigation ........................................................................................................................................244
20.6 Status Tab ........................................................................................................................................244
20.7 History Tab .......................................................................................................................................248
20.8 Events Tab ........................................................................................................................................ 250
20.9 LoadSmart Tab ................................................................................................................................. 251
20.10 Control Tab ....................................................................................................................................... 255
20.11 Global Events Tab .............................................................................................................................259
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
iii
20.12 Global Control Tab ............................................................................................................................ 262
20.13 Log Files ...........................................................................................................................................265
21. LM Series Reference and Operation .................................................................................................. 266
21.1 Pass-Thru Input Router Functionality ...............................................................................................266
21.2 GPIO Conguration .......................................................................................................................... 269
21.3 Remote Power Control & Event Logs ..............................................................................................269
22. MY8-LAKE Reference and Operation ................................................................................................ 276
22.1 Signal Flow ....................................................................................................................................... 276
22.2 Operation Mode ............................................................................................................................... 279
22.3 Host Analog Output Reference Conguration .................................................................................279
22.4 I/O Conguration View Mode Options .............................................................................................280
23. Keyboard Shortcuts .............................................................................................................................282
23.1 Enabling/Disabling Keyboard Shortcuts ...........................................................................................282
23.2 General Keyboard Shortcuts ............................................................................................................282
23.3 Button Bar Shortcuts........................................................................................................................282
23.4 EQ, LEVELS, XOVER, and AUX Screen Shortcuts .........................................................................283
24. External Control Interfaces ................................................................................................................287
24.1 GPIO (LM Series Only) .....................................................................................................................287
24.2 AMX® and Crestron® Control ............................................................................................................287
25. Command Line Options ......................................................................................................................289
25.1 O ver view .......................................................................................................................................... 289
25.2 Reference .........................................................................................................................................289
26. Firmware Update ................................................................................................................................. 291
26.1 Backup System Conguration and Presets ......................................................................................291
26.2 Updating Firmware ...........................................................................................................................291
26.3 Old Firmware Notication in Lake Controller ...................................................................................294
27. Preset Manager ....................................................................................................................................295
27.1 Starting the Lake Preset Manager ...................................................................................................295
27.2 Screen Layout ..................................................................................................................................296
27.3 Working with Frames ....................................................................................................................... 297
27.4 Working with Bank Files ..................................................................................................................300
27.5 Common Functionality .....................................................................................................................305
28. IP Address Reference .........................................................................................................................306
28.1 Network Essentials ..........................................................................................................................306
28.2 Factory Reset Conguration.............................................................................................................306
29. Corporate Information ........................................................................................................................308
29.1 Contact Details .................................................................................................................................308
29.2 Trademarks .......................................................................................................................................308
iv
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Welcome
1. Welcome
1.1 Important Information
In January 2009, Lab.gruppen acquired from Dolby Laboratories, Inc. both the Lake trademarks and the
exclusive rights for use of Dolby® Lake® Processor technology for both touring and permanent sound
reinforcement markets. Lab.gruppen is now developing the Lake Processing technology and the Controller
software independently for these markets. The Lab.gruppen-developed Controller software version will be
forthwith named Lake Controller software.
1.2 Introduction
The Lake Controller software provides a unied interface for the Lab.gruppen PLM™ Series, PLM+ Series,
D Series, Lake LM Series and the MY8-LAKE (Yamaha Mini-YGDAI). Optimized for a wireless touch-screen
or Tablet PC, the Controller uses a unique graphic interface that brings back the feel of analog faders
and controls. The software operates on any Microsoft® Windows® PC with a standard Ethernet network
interface.
The Lake Controller may also be accessed via media tablet devices such as the Apple® iPad™ by using
remote desktop connectivity software that requires additional conguration. For further details on conguring the Lake Controller for use via a media tablet, please refer to the Product Documentation category of the
support section at http://lakeprocessing.com.
This manual describes the functionality of the Lake Controller software suite, including the main
Lake Controller component, along with associated Firmware Update Utilities and Preset Manager Utilities.
For a full understanding of the Lake Controller System, use this manual together with associated hardware
operation manuals, audio networking information and quick reference guides that are provided in the documentation folder of your software installation.
Note that the Lake Controller software has all necessary functionality to control the Lake LM Series devices,
Lab.gruppen PLM, PLM+ and D Series devices and the MY8-LAKE (Yamaha Mini-YGDAI). Support for
legacy devices including the Dolby Lake Processor™,Contour Pro 26™ and Mesa Quad EQ™ discontinued in
Lake Controller v6.x; for control of these devices please use Lake Controller v5.x.
Throughout this manual, the generic term ‘device’ will be used to describe any hardware product containing
Lake Processing technology.
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
1
Welcome
1.3 Controller Overview
Using the Controller software, a sound engineer can control a distributed network of Lake devices from
a single location. Instant adjustments can be made to any parameter of any device on the network, or to
selected device Groups. By creating Groups, the Controller can deliver the appropriate EQ and level settings
to a large, segmented sound system.
A single device can belong to multiple Groups (up to 28); for example, a traditional arena-sized system
comprises several left and right main stacks, side-, front-, and down-lls, and multiple levels of delays to
different subsystems. Typical technology requires a chain of processing units to enable an overall stereo
master and various sub-masters to individually control equalization, dynamics, and gain.
In contrast, the Controller can use multiple Groups to send global adjustments to all PA areas while still
providing independent control of individual system components.
1.4 Manual Overview
This operation manual provides software installation instructions, a tutorial for new users, and full-detail
reference information for all software functions and features of the Lake Controller user interface.
The manual is organized as follows:
▸ Chapter 1, Welcome, this chapter.
▸ Chapter 2, Software Installation, provides details for installing the Lake Controller software, along with
information for conguring various Tablet PC related options.
▸ Chapter 3, Network & Firewall Overview, provides information for PC networking and rewall congura-
tion, and verifying of both wired and wireless Lake Controller and device connectivity.
▸ Chapter 4, Lake Controller Tutorial, provides a tutorial that introduces the features of the software, and
the terminology utilized in the user interface.
▸ Chapter 5, Home Menu Reference, describes the top-level functions of the button bar located at the
bottom of the Lake Controller user interface.
▸ Chapter 6, EQ/Levels Menu Reference, details the functions found within the EQ/Levels menu. This
menu provides the most commonly used functions within the Lake Controller.
▸ Chapter 7, System Store Recall Menu Reference, describes menu functions related to saving and
recalling system conguration les.
▸ Chapter 8, Modules Menu Reference, details the functions found on the Modules Menu, including how
to store and recall Module les, Super Module functionality, adjusting the I/O conguration of Modules
and Super Modules, and accessing other Module-specic functions.
2
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Welcome
▸ Chapter 9, Module File Types & Lake LoadLibrary™, provides a reference for the available Module le
types, including traditional crossovers, linear phase crossovers, and Mesa EQ Modules.
▸ Chapter 10, Groups Menu Reference, describes Groups, which provide a sophisticated way to partition
complex systems, enabling system-wide control of EQ and Levels in real time. This chapter details all
functions related to creating and assigning Modules to Groups.
▸ Chapter 11, Solo/Mute Menu Reference, describes functionality relating to Solo/Mute.
▸ Chapter 12, Icon Control Menu Reference, describes how to change the size of Module icons within the
interface, as well as how to change meter icon views.
▸ Chapter 13, User Preferences Menu Reference, provides explanation of the functions contained in the
User Preferences menu, including access to Designer Mode, daylight operation, Show mode, and more.
▸ Chapter 14, Pages Menu Reference, details the functions associated with adding and naming new page
displays within the user interface.
▸ Chapter 15, Network Menu Reference, describes how to change between available networks, along
with details on Multiple Controller functionality.
▸ Chapter 16, Communication and Synchronization, describes how the Lake Controller synchronizes to
Lake devices, and provides explanations and suggestions on how to resolve issues that may arise due
to network problems, such as moving out of range of a wireless access point.
▸ Chapter 18, Analyzer Plug-in, details the functionality of the analyzer plug-in that enables the Lake
Controller to display and control third-party analzyers.
▸ Chapter 19, Designer Mode Menu Reference, details the security features provided by the Designer
Mode of operation.
▸ Chapter 20, Lake-enabled Amplier Reference, provides Lake Controller specic information relevant to
all Lake-enable amplers (PLM, PLM+ and D Series).
▸ Chapter 21, LM Series Reference and Operation, provides Lake Controller specic information relevant
to the LM Series devices.
▸ Chapter 22, MY8-LAKE Reference and Operation, provides Lake Controller specic information relevant
to MY8-LAKE devices.
▸ Chapter 23, Keyboard Shortcuts, details the available Lake Controller keyboard shortcuts.
▸ Chapter 24, External Control Interfaces, describes the available external-control interfaces supported by
the Lake Controller, including GPIO, AMX®, Crestron®.
▸ Chapter 25, Command Line Options, provides the list of available switches that can be used when
starting the Lake Controller to provide alternate functionality.
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
3
Welcome
▸ Chapter 26, Firmware Update, presents the methods in which you can update the rmware of your
▸ Chapter 27, Preset Manager, provides information on using the separate Preset Manager utilities that
▸ Chapter 28, IP Address Reference, provides reference information for conguring IP addresses for the
If you are using the Controller for the rst time, please read the tutorial in chapter 4 to become familiar with
the features and terminology. For information on Lake device hardware and front panel functionality, please
refer to the associated operation manuals.
The information in this manual is based on the use of a touchscreen Tablet PC, which utilizes a pen interface
instead of a mouse. Therefore the word TAP is used instead of CLICK when referring to tapping the pen on
the screen, which is equivalent to clicking the left mouse button. If you are using a mouse instead of a pen,
substitute a click of your left mouse button when instructed to tap.
Lake device using the associated Firmware Update Utilities.
are provided in the Lake Controller software suite.
Lake Controller and Lake device network.
4
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Software Installation
2. Software Installation
These software installation instructions assume some basic knowledge of Microsoft Windows concepts,
such as selecting menu items, locating folders and les, and starting programs. For more information on
Windows, please consult your Windows documentation.
Before installing the Lake Controller software, please read the license agreement presented at the beginning
of the Lake Controller software installer.
It is highly recommended that the video card driver
is updated to the latest version prior to installing the
Lake Controller software.
2.1 Computer Requirements
This section describes the recommended computer specications and settings for optimal use of the
Lake Controller software.
2.1.1 General PC Requirements
▸ Microsoft DirectX® 8.1 or later
▸ 100/1000 Base-T wired Ethernet adapter and/or 802.11 wireless Ethernet adapter
▸ Latest video card drivers download and installed from the manufacturer’s website
2.1. 2 Recommended PC Specications
The recommended computer specications for using the Lake Controller software are:
▸ 1.5 GHz Dual Core Processor or faster
▸ 1 GB RAM or greater
▸ 256 MB video RAM or greater (ensure latest video drivers are installed)
▸ Windows 7 or later
▸ A touch-screen Tablet style interface
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
5
Software Installation
2.1.3 Minimum PC Specications
The minimum computer specications for using the Lake Controller software are:
▸ 1 GHz Processor (for Intel Atom processors the ‘emulation’ command line option is required - please
refer to “25. Command Line Options” on page 289)
▸ 512 MB RAM
▸ 128 MB video RAM WinXP, ‘emulation’ for Win 7 (ensure latest video drivers are installed)
▸ Windows XP Service Pack 3 or later
▸ A screen resolution of at least 800 x 600 (reduced user experience, with some features not directly
accessible)
2.1.4 Video Card Settings
It is important that the video card is congured correctly to ensure smooth operation of the Lake Controller
software. Incorrect video card settings may result in corruption of graphics, unusual behavior, or unexpected
exit of the Lake Controller software.
In addition to the settings presented below, please visit your video card manufacturer’s website and
download the latest drivers for your specic video card. The video drivers that come pre-installed with
Windows are often out of date and do not include enhancements provided by the video card manufacturer’s
drivers. Almost all video card issues can be resolved by updating your video card driver to the latest release
version.
It is highly recommended that the video card driver
is updated to the latest version if you encounter any
graphical problems when using the Lake Controller
software.
For optimal results, please ensure the follow settings are made on your Lake Controller PC:
▸ A display resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels or greater is recommended. Resolutions of 800 x 600 and
1024 x 600 pixels are supported, but provide a lower-quality interface with some features less accessible or unavailable.
▸ Color should be set to 32-bit (does work with 16 bit, but screen minimize / maximize is faster with a
32-bit color mode setting).
▸ 3D Acceleration set for best performance with anti-aliasing turned off.
6
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Software Installation
▸ For high resolution tablet running Windows 8.1 or later, the Lake Controller enables Windows DPI scal-
ing. If native resolution is preferred, right-click the Lake Controller executable, select the Compatibility
tab, and select Disable scaling for High-DPI. This option may improve performance on low specication
processors.
2.1.5 Tablet PC and Laptop Power Settings
When using a wireless laptop or Tablet PC with the Lake Controller, you may need to switch off powersaving features, which can reduce the performance of yourPC.
If you experience slower performance while using the Controller on battery power, turn off any battery
power-saving settings that affect general performance of your PC. Some battery optimizations also affect
wireless connection speed; if you experience a slow wireless connection while in Battery mode, these
settings should be disabled.
To turn off power-saving features, navigate using the Windows Control Panel:
1. Go to Windows Start Menu > Settings > Control Panel > Power Options
2. As settings vary depending on each Tablet or laptop, please consult the appropriate hardware manual
for further information.
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
7
Software Installation
Figure 2-1: Power Option Properties
2.1.6 Tablet PC Input Panel Settings
Windows XP Tablet Edition provides the pen action Start Input Panel gesture, which starts the Tablet Input
Panel (keyboard or writing pad). This gesture is a quick movement of the pen from side to side. If the Input
Panel appears while using the Lake Controller, it will cause ickering because both the Controller and the
Input Panel attempt to be in the foreground.
To disable the Input Panel gesture:
1. Access TABLET AND PEN SETTINGS through the Windows Control Panel.
Start Menu > Settings > Control Panel > Tablet and Pen Settings, Pen Options
2. Select PEN OPTIONS.
8
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Software Installation
Figure 2-2: Tablet and Pen Settings
3. Select START INPUT PANEL GESTURE, and tap SETTINGS.
Figure 2-3: Disabling Start Input Panel Gesture
4. Uncheck ENABLE START INPUT PANEL GESTURE.
5. Tap OK.
6. Tap OK again to store your changes.
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
9
Software Installation
2.2 Lake Controller Installation
2.2.1 First Time Lake Controller Installation
To install the Lake Controller software suite, insert the installer CD-ROM or USB key into your
computer or double-tap the executable installer that was downloaded via the Internet; choose
INSTALL LAKE CONTROLLER then follow the on-screen setup instructions.
1. Read installation information, and tap NEXT to proceed through the installation dialog boxes.
2. Tap INSTALL when requested.
3. Tap FINISH when installation is complete.
Following successful installation, the Lake Controller icon appears on the desktop.
Before using the Lake Controller with a network of
Lake devices, please follow the conguration
procedures described in chapter3.
2.2.2 Overwriting Existing Lake Controller Installation
Overwriting an existing installation requires that both the Installation and Shortcut folders be identical to
those of the existing installation.
If you decide to overwrite your existing installation, ensure that you specify the same location during the
software installation process.
2.2.3 Multiple Lake Controller Installations
If you wish to retain previous versions of the Lake Controller, please ensure that the installation location
specied during software installation is unique.
Only one instance of the software may be used at
any one time. Be aware that different versions of the
software are only compatible with certain rmware
versions.
10
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Software Installation
2.3 Moving User Files between Installations
To copy preset les from an existing (old) installation to a new Lake Controller installation.
1. Tap Windows Start > All Programs > Lake Controller vX.X > User Data Files
Where X.X is previous version of the Lake Controller installation.
2. Tap Windows Start > All Programs > Lake Controller vY.Y > User Data Files
Where Y.Y is the latest Lake Controller installation.
3. Use the two Explorer folders that are now visible to transfer user les and folders
between the old and new installations of the Lake Controller.
User Data Files can be accessed in My Documents\Lake\
From Lake Controller v6.3.1 an option is provided to migrate
user data content from v6.3 installations and later
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
11
Network & Firewall Overview
3. Network & Firewall Overview
This chapter provides an overview of key requirements in terms of rewall conguration, wired and wireless
network conguration, and Dante audio network conguration. The separate Lake Network Conguration
Guide and Dante conguration literature that is included as part of Lake Controller installation should also be
consulted for additional information.
3.1 Ethernet Overview
The TCP/IP protocol suite is structured in layers as illustrated in Figure 3-1. The link layer is Ethernet and is
responsible for connecting to the cabling and Ethernet switches. For communication to occur, each device
must have a valid IP address. The IP layer uses these addresses to route packets between devices. The
transport layer provides ows of data and is used by applications to communicate with each other over the
network.
The Lake Controller uses UDP messaging to communicate with Lake devices on the network. Network
setup and conguration is fast and easy; simply hook up all the devices on the network, and the
Lake Controller software detects and communicates with all devices as required.
Figure 3-1: TCP/IP Protocol Suite
Lake devices are congured to use Automatic Private Addressing which allocates IP addresses from the
range 169.254.x.x. In most scenarios, this automatic allocation setting will not need to be changed. However, if the device is integrated into a sophisticated network conguration, the IP address allocation method
can be changed using the Lake Controller software.
12
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Network & Firewall Overview
3.2 Firewall Conguration
3. 2 .1 Overview
By default the Lake Controller Installer creates exceptions for all Lake applications, so manual conguration
should not be required.
If all devices connected to the network are not appearing as expected, it is possible that a rewall is enabled
and is blocking these programs from obtaining network access. Lake applications utilize TCP/IP networking
for Controller and device communication and must be allowed access through any rewall in order to work
correctly.
The Audinate services “common” and “Dante Discovery” must be installed and running for the
Lake Controller Dante functionality to operate, and for the Lake Update utility to function correctly for PLM+
and D Series ampliers. Please ensure these services are allowed full access if requested, or restart to
correct any problems should they occur.
UDP- Broadcast trafc cannot be blocked as it forms
part of the unique device discovery process.
3.2.2 Windows 7 Specic
By default, Windows 7 security functions will display a security alert similar to that shown in the rst time
each application is started.
Figure 3-2: Standard Windows Firewall Security Alert
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
13
Network & Firewall Overview
When using the standard Windows 7 rewall and an alert similar to that shown in Figure 3-2 is displayed:
1. Select checkboxes to allow the Lake Controller (or other Lake application) to access both the Private and
Public networks.
2. Tap Allow Access.
When the Lake Controller or other Lake application opens without this warning, but connected Frames
cannot be identied on the network, the application rewall settings can be veried manually:
1. Type “rewall” into the Windows 7 search feature as shown in Figure 3-3.
2. Select “Allow a program through Windows Firewall” from the list of Control Panel options.
3. Tap Change Settings and locate the Lake application in the list
4. Ensure all checkboxes are marked then tap OK
Figure 3-3: Allow a Program through Windows Firewall (via Win 7 Search)
3.3 IP Address Conguration
The network card of the host computer running the Lake Controller must have a valid IP address to communicate with Lake devices on the network.
By default, Windows computers are congured to obtain an IP address automatically. This default setup
works successfully for most congurations and is the recommended starting point. On an unmanaged
network this option will allocate the PC an IP address from the range 169.254.x.x.
14
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Network & Firewall Overview
If using automatic IP address allocation, please ensure your Ethernet switch and/or Lake devices are turned
on and connected to your PC for a minute or so (Windows XP - generally faster on Windows 7) before starting the Lake Controller. This allows Windows time to correctly identify your PC’s IP address, and therefore
allows the Lake Controller to communicate properly when it scans the network.
If you are on a managed network (such as a corporate network) with a DHCP server and you are having
communication problems, it is recommended that you change the IP addressing mode on the devices to
use DHCP. Please consult a network specialist if you have trouble with complex network congurations.
A xed IP address is useful if you are frequently switching between network adapters, or unplugging and
reconnecting your network cable. The automatic IP address allocation used by Windows requires a valid
network to be present, and can take up to one minute for the PC to discover its IP address. In this case it
is recommended that you try using a xed IP address in the same subnet as that used by default address
allocation (i.e. 169.254), but using the reserved ranges of either 169.254.0.x or 169.254.255.x.
The IP address ranges 169.254.0.x and 169.254.255.x are
reserved by IANA so future use of these address ranges cannot
be guaranteed.
You can specify a xed IP address by following these steps in Windows 7:
1. Tap the Windows Start icon, type “network” in the search bar then tap NETWORK AND SHARING
CENTER from the options listed under the Control Panel heading as shown in Figure 3-4.
Figure 3-4: Opening Windows Network and Sharing Center
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
15
Network & Firewall Overview
2. Select the appropriate network connection (Local Area Connection or Wireless Network Connection) to
congure, then select “Change settings of this connection” as shown in Figure 3-5.
Figure 3-5: Selecting Wired Network Connection
Although this tutorial uses Local Area Connection as
an example, the principles also apply to Wireless
Network Connection.
3. Select INTERNET PROTOCOL VERSION 4 (TCP/IPV4), and tap the PROPERTIES button.
Figure 3-6: Local Area Connection Properties
16
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Network & Firewall Overview
4. Select “Use the following IP address,” enter an IP address, tap TAB or tap in the Subnet mask box to
auto-populate with the correct mask.
Figure 3-7: TCP/IPv4 Properties
5. Tap OK to apply changes, and exit Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties.
6. Tap OK to apply changes, and exit Local Area Connection Properties.
Please refer to Chapter 28 for more information on
the selection of an appropriate IP address.
3.4 Wired Network Setup
3.4 .1 Overview
The Lake Controller host computer can be connected directly to any Lake device through the Ethernet connectors. Multiple devices can be connected by cascading connections between units, although this is not a
recommended solution for the successful use of Dante™ (Digital Audio Networking via Ethernet). Connecting
devices via a good quality external Ethernet switch with QoS is highly recommended. Please refer to tutorial
section 4.3.6 for further information regarding Dante, and section 3.6.4 for details on using QoS with Dante.
The Lake Controller can be connected to a network of Lake devices using a wired or wireless Ethernet
solution. A wired network is a simpler, faster and more robust solution and should be implemented where
possible in preference to using a wireless system. Additionally, when implementing Dante audio networking
in conjunction with a wireless access point for Lake Controller data, additional conguration of an external
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
17
Network & Firewall Overview
Ethernet switch is required to lter Dante audio trafc from reaching the access point. Please refer to
section 3.6.3.
The Controller can connect anywhere on a network of Lake devices. LEDs next to each port ash to conrm
valid communication. Please connect the Controller computer to the network with an Ethernet cable, and
follow the verication steps in the next section.
3.4.2 Verifying Wired Controller and Device Communication
Once the network is connected, follow these steps to conrm communication between the Lake Controller
and Lake devices:
1. Double-tap the Lake Controller shortcut icon from the Windows desktop. The SELECT NETWORK
Adapter dialog box (shown) appears if your computer has more than one network interface enabled.
This typically occurs if your PC has both wired and wireless network interfaces.
Only one network adapter should be enabled on your PC when
using the Lake Controller. Network adapters can be disabled via
the Windows Network and Sharing Center > Change Adapter
Settings.
2. Select the Ethernet adapter currently used for the network (the wired adapter for this example).
Figure 3-8: Select Network Adapter
When the Controller begins, you will be prompted with a dialog box asking whether to load the last conguration.
3. Tap NO to this dialog. The Main page of the Controller is displayed.
4. To verify that the devices are on the network and communicating, tap the Modules button.
The Module scroll bar will be displayed.
18
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Network & Firewall Overview
Figure 3-9: Module Scroll Bar
The folder to the left of the Module scroll bar provides Virtual Frames, which are always available whether or
not the network is connected. Virtual Frames allow you to create a complete system conguration ofine.
If your network connections are valid, all devices connected to the network appear on the Module scroll bar
to the right of the Virtual Frames.
Figure 3-9 shows the Module scroll bar, which visually identies the number of Modules within each Frame
on the network. The number of Modules within a Frame depends on the device type/conguration. Modules
shown with a circle are available on the network, but not currently in use; Modules identied with text
only are already in use in the current system conguration. Please refer to the tutorial in chapter 4 for more
information on Modules and Frames.
3.5 Wireless Network Setup
3.5 .1 Overview
Several hardware manufacturers supply wireless networking solutions that adhere to the various 802.11
wireless Ethernet standards. This means that any standard Ethernet 802.11 wireless networking solution
should work with this network system.
When using a wireless access point on the same network as Dante digital audio, an approved external
Ethernet switch must be congured to lter Dante audio packets from reaching the wireless network.
Please refer to section 3.6.3 for further information.
An access point is used in a wireless Ethernet network conguration to connect Lake devices to the
Lake Controller host computer. The access point is connected to the wired network using standard Ethernet
cables. It performs the same function as a switch: receiving, buffering, and transmitting data between wired
and wireless networks.
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
19
Network & Firewall Overview
Figure 3-10: Basic Wireless Setup (Not Suitable for Use with Dante or larger networks)
Ideally, the procedure just described yields a perfectly functional and secure system. However, there are
two complications: Some environments have additional wireless network systems and communications
equipment competing for the same airspace used by the Lake system. It is also important to provide security so another wireless network cannot access this network system.
As part of the 802.11 standard, various levels of access control and encryption exist. There are also different
communication channels that operate at different frequencies.
The service set identier (SSID) controls access to this wireless network by functioning as a password or
key between wireless network devices to differentiate them from each other. The SSID must be exactly the
same on all wireless devices (the access point and all Controller host computers). The SSID is case sensitive.
Although the SSID differentiates among wireless systems, it does not provide security to the network.
Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a security protocol for wireless networks dened in the 802.11 standard.
The WEP protocol provides the same level of security as a wired network by encrypting data over radio
waves to protect it during transmission. It is recommend that WEP encryption is enabled if other computers
are connected to your Ethernet network.
3.5.2 Conguring the Tablet PC for Wireless Networking
Assuming that the wireless access point has been set up appropriately and is turned on, we now need to
congure the Tablet PC to connect to this access point.
1. Navigate to the Windows Network and Sharing Center as shown in Figure 3-4.
2. Tap the wireless signal strength icon at the bottom-right of the screen in the Windows notications
area and select the wireless access point from the list that appears and tap CONNECT as shown in
Figure 3-11.
20
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Network & Firewall Overview
Figure 3-11: Connecting to a wireless access point
3. Enter the network security key, or press the button on the wireless access point if requested.
4. If you encouter network problems when using the default automatic IP address allocation (more likely
with Windows XP), please setup a xed IP address as described in section 3.3.
Please refer to chapter 28 for more information on
the selection of an appropriate IP address.
3.5.3 Conrming Wireless Operation of the Lake Controller
To conrm wireless operation:
1. Double-tap the LAKE CONTROLLER icon to start the software. If you have more than one network
adapter enabled, the SELECT NETWORK ADAPTER dialog box will be displayed; select the
WIRELESS NETWORK ADAPTER.
2. Tap NO when asked whether to recall the last conguration. A brief resync message will appear for
each Lake device on your network, conrming that your network connection is operating properly.
3. Tap MODULES. Each online device is represented on the Module scroll bar by a number of Module
icons surrounded by a border.
4. Tap QUIT CONTROLLER to exit.
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
21
Network & Firewall Overview
3.6 Dante Digital Audio Networking
Dante provides multi-channel digital audio networking over standard a standard Ethernet network, alongside
control data for the Lake network. Various topics relating to network conguration are summarized in this
section; for further details please refer to associated Dante literature available via:
Start > All Programs > Lake Controller vX.X > Documentation > Dante Documentation after installing the
Lake Controller software.
Additional Dante product information is available at the Audinate website: http://www.audinate.com/
3.6 .1 Dante Controller Compatibility
All devices are compatible with Audinate’s Dante Controller software (not applicable for MY8-LAKE)
Changes made via the Lake Controller will be reected in the Dante Controller and vice-versa:
▸ When both the Lake Controller and Dante are active, changes will synchronize immediately across both
software controllers and affected devices.
▸ When Dante-related parameters are changed via the Lake Controller while the Dante Controller is
disconnected or closed, the Dante Controller will inherit the the change the next time it is connected or
opened.
▸ When Dante-related parameters are changed via the Dante Controller while the Lake Controller is
disconnected or closed, the Lake Controller will identify the Frames as Out of Sync the next time it is
connected, or opened using the Recall Last System Conguration option.
3.6.2 Dual Redundant Network Conguration
With dual redundancy activated, the Controller can be connected to the secondary network connection
using an IP address in the range 172.31.x.x. on the Lake Controller computer. This conguration allows for
fail-over to the secondary network should a problem occur with the primary network.
Do not connect Controllers to the primary and
secondary network connections simultaneously.
3.6.3 Using Dante with Wireless Data Control or Low-Bandwidth Devices
Dante (Digital Audio Networking) technology requires a reliable 100 Mbps (or faster) network to operate, and
therefore cannot operate via a wireless transmitter/receiver. However, in most Lake networks, it is likely that
22
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Network & Firewall Overview
wireless control of the Lake devices will be required on the same network that is transmitting and receiving
Dante digital audio signals.
To achieve this, you must congure the Ethernet switch on the boundary of the wireless network to lter
Dante trafc from reaching the wireless access point or other lower bandwidth devices (e.g. legacy devices
such as the Contour Pro 26 or Mesa Quad EQ), or you will most likely experience communication problems.
The diagram below summarizes the desired outcome from correctly conguring your Ethernet switch to
lter Dante audio packet
Figure 3-12: Using Dante with Low Bandwidth devices
Please refer to the Audinate
ACL packet ltering. This document is available via:
Start > All Programs > Lake Controller vX.X > Documentation > Dante Documentation after installing the
Lake Controller software.
Additional Dante product information is available at the Audinate website: http://www.audinate.com/
®
document AUD-ANO-ACL Filtering SRW224G4 for further details regarding
3.6.4 Dante with Quality of Service Ethernet Switches
The use of an external Ethernet switch with QoS (Quality of Service) is strongly recommended when using
Dante digital audio over your Lake network. Dante uses standard network QoS techniques available in
off-the-shelf Ethernet switches to prioritize clocking and audio trafc, and to allow non-Dante devices such
as personal computers to share a single network with Dante devices. The diagram below shows the order of
priority given to the different types of data packets going through the switch. Using a switch without QoS,
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
23
Network & Firewall Overview
or with QoS turned off on a busy network, may result in audio packets arriving too late to be played out,
resulting in audio glitches.
Figure 3-13: Dante Quality of Service Switch Conguration
Please refer to the Audinate document AUD-ANO-QoS Switch Conguration for further details regarding
ACL packet ltering. This document is available via:
Start > All Programs > Lake Controller vX.X > Documentation > Dante Documentation after installing the
Lake Controller software.
Additional Dante product information is available at the Audinate website: http://www.audinate.com/
3.6.5 Recommended Network Topologies When Using Dante
The use of an external Ethernet 100 Mbps switch with QoS (Quality of Service) is highly recommended. It
is also recommended that each device has its own direct connection to that switch. Where switches are
connected together, this should be achieved via a gigabit ber or copper connection.
24
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
Network & Firewall Overview
Figure 3-14: Recommended Network Topologies
Two Lake devices may be daisy chained together and run Dante. The recommended latency when connecting two Lake devices in this manner is 0.8 ms.
Figure 3-15: Only two Lake devices may be daisy chained for use with Dante
More than two Lake devices should not be daisy chained together when Dante is being used.
Lake Controller Operation Manual Rev 1.5.4
25
Loading...