Hub
OPERATING MANUAL
®
™
HUB MANUAL
Thank You
We at Pliant® Technologies want to thank you for purchasing CrewCom®. Pliant brings our experience, expertise, and commitment
to quality technology with the new CrewCom System. In order to get the most out of your new CrewCom product, please take a few
moments to read this manual completely so that you better understand the operation of this product. For questions not addressed in
this manual, feel free to review the additional support documentation provided on our website or contact Pliant’s Customer Support
Department:
Pliant Technologies, LLC
205 Technology Parkway
Auburn, AL 36830 USA
www.plianttechnologies.com
Phone: +1.334.321.1160
Toll-Free: 1.844.475.4268 or 1.844.4PLIANT
Fax: +1.334.321.1162
Copyright © 2018–2019 Pliant Technologies, LLC. All rights reserved. The Pliant®, CrewCom®, and CrewNet™ word marks and the
Pliant “P” logo are trademarks of Pliant Technologies, LLC. Any and all other trademark references within this document are property
of their respective owners.
Model Information
This document applies to model CHB-8C, CHB-8C-02, and CHB-8F.
Document Reference: 2019.11 D0000217_G
ii
Table of Contents
HUB MANUAL
Table of Contents
Safety Information ................................................................................................................................................1
Safe Operation Recommendations ...................................................................................................................1
Safe Installation Recommendations .................................................................................................................1
Power Information .........................................................................................................................................2
Introduction .........................................................................................................................................................3
What’s in the box? ..........................................................................................................................................3
Additional Items Required ...............................................................................................................................3
Optional Item(s) ..............................................................................................................................................3
Firmware Release Notes ..................................................................................................................................3
CrewCom Overview ........................................................................................................................................3
CrewCom Conguration File Overview .............................................................................................................5
About Network Power .....................................................................................................................................5
Product Overview ..................................................................................................................................................6
CrewCom Copper Hub ....................................................................................................................................6
CrewCom Fiber Hub ........................................................................................................................................8
Setup and Installation ...........................................................................................................................................9
Determining the Device Location .....................................................................................................................9
Connecting to CrewNet ...................................................................................................................................9
Powering the Device .....................................................................................................................................10
Activating the Device ....................................................................................................................................10
Operation ............................................................................................................................................................11
Understanding the Hub LEDs .........................................................................................................................11
Product Specications .........................................................................................................................................12
Product Support ..................................................................................................................................................13
Returning Equipment for Repair or Maintenance ...........................................................................................13
Maintenance and Storage ...................................................................................................................................14
Cleaning .......................................................................................................................................................14
Temperature and Humidity ............................................................................................................................14
License Information ...........................................................................................................................................15
CrewCom Compliance Numbers ....................................................................................................................15
Warranty Information ..........................................................................................................................................16
Limited Warranty ...........................................................................................................................................16
Parts Limited Warranty ..................................................................................................................................16
Glossary ............................................................................................................................................................17
Index ..................................................................................................................................................................18
iii
Safety Information
HUB MANUAL
Safety Information
The following section details important safety information related to the ownership and operation of the CrewCom Hub.
WARNING: Indicates a situation, which, when not avoided, has the potential to result in death or severe injury.
CAUTION: Indicates a situation, which, when not avoided, results or has the potential to result in minor
injury or product failure or damage.
1. Read these instructions.
2. Follow all instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
Safe Operation Recommendations
• Install and operate in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
• Do not submerge the Hub in water.
• Do not set food, water, or other beverage containers on or near the unit.
• Do not place unit in areas where it will be exposed to weather.
• Ensure the device’s cord remain free from areas of foot trafc. Do not allow cords to become crimped, twisted, or frayed.
• Clean only with a dry cloth. Do not spray household cleaners or water onto the cloth. Never spray household cleaners or
water onto any part the Hub.
• Use only attachments/accessories that are specically made for or certied by Pliant Technologies with the Hub. Any
attempt to modify ports in order to use cables or wires that are not manufactured specically for or certied for use on
this system will void the product warranty.
• Unplug the Hub during periods of inclement weather and after use.
• Refer all Hub service to qualied Pliant Technologies service personnel. There are no user-serviceable parts
inside the Hub. Opening the product may expose dangerous electrical components, which will result in product failure.
Any attempt to self-service or self-repair the unit will void the product warranty.
• Service is required if the Hub receives any type of damage to any of its parts or if it does not operate normally. For
example, if water or any other type of liquid has been spilled on the Hub or if it has been exposed to rain or moisture,
then service is necessary. Service is also required if debris or other objects have fallen into the unit or if it has been
dropped.
Safe Installation Recommendations
• Elevated Operating Ambient Temperature - If installed in a closed or multi-unit rack assembly, the operating
ambient temperature of the rack environment may be greater than room ambient. Therefore, consideration should be
given to installing the equipment in an environment compatible with the maximum ambient temperature (Tma) specied
on page 12.
• Reduced Air Flow - Installation of the equipment in a rack should be such that the amount of air ow required for safe
operation of the equipment is not compromised.
• Mechanical Loading - Mounting of the equipment in the rack should be such that a hazardous condition is not
achieved due to uneven mechanical loading.
1
Safety Information
• Circuit Overloading - Consideration should be given to the connection of the equipment to the supply circuit and the
effect that overloading of the circuits might have on overcurrent protection and supply wiring. Appropriate consideration
of equipment nameplate ratings should be used when addressing this concern.
• Reliable Earthing - Reliable earthing of rack-mounted equipment should be maintained. Particular attention should be
given to supply connections other than direct connections to the branch circuit (e.g., use of power strips).
HUB MANUAL
Power Information
WARNING – DANGER! Users should exercise extreme care when working with electricity. Additional care
should be used when working with electricity outdoors in inclement weather. When working
outdoors or near water, always connect the system into a ground-fault interrupting circuit.
AC Power Connection Safety
• When using local power to power the Hub, always connect the power cord to the CrewCom Hub’s external power supply
before connecting to the outlet.
• CrewCom Hubs may be powered by an external power supply. The cord to connect the external power supply to the
mains supply must conform to the following specications:
» The mains power cord shall have an IEC C13 connector at one end and a mains power plug at the opposite end.
» An IEC C13 plug has three pins. The center pin carries the earth/ground. The remaining two pins carry neutral and
live circuits.
» The conductors of the mains cords shall have adequate cross-sectional area for rated current consumption of the
equipment.
» The mains plug that connects to the mains supply must be approved for use in the country in which the equipment
will be used.
» The mains power cord must be an IEC mains 3-Wire grounding power cord complying with standard IEC60320;
IEC320/C13.
» Mains power cords used in the U.S. must also comply with standard UL817.
2
Introduction
What’s in the box?
Introduction
HUB MANUAL
• CrewCom Copper Hub (1) OR CrewCom Fiber Hub (1)
• USB A to Micro B Cable
• Cat 5e Cable, 6 ft. (1.8 m)
• Fiber Cable, 6 ft. (1.8 m) (Fiber Hub Only)
*Note: Power Supplies vary by CrewCom Hub model, and they are not interchangeable. Always ensure your
Hub uses a compatible power supply:
**Note: A one year product warranty is standard with CrewCom products. Follow the product registration
instructions on the Warranty Extension Registration Card and visit www.plianttechnologies.com/
customer/account/login to extend your product warranty to two years. See page 16 for more
information about Pliant warranties.
PPS-48V-02 with CHB-8C-02 and CHB-8F; PPS-48V with CHB-8C.
• Rubber Feet
• 48VDC External Power Supply*
• Product Overview Guide
• Warranty Extension Registration Card**
Additional Items Required
In addition to your Copper or Fiber Hub, at least one of each of the devices listed below is required to complete your CrewCom
System (sold separately with included components):
• Control Unit (includes AC Power Cord; USB A to Micro B Cable; Cat 5e cable, 15 ft. (4.6 m); and USB Flash Drive)
• Radio Transceiver (includes USB A to Micro B cable; Cat 5e cable, 15 ft. (4.6 m); Mounting Hardware/Bracket; and 2 OmniDirectional Antennas)
• Radio Pack (includes Lithium-Polymer Rechargeable Battery, USB A to Micro B Cable, Multi Blade Worldwide Battery, and
Charger/Power Supply)
• Headset
Optional Item(s)
• CrewCom-Hub-compatible rack ears (PAC-RMK-S and PAC-RMK-D) are available for purchase separately if needed.
Firmware Release Notes
Find the latest CrewCom rmware release notes on the Pliant Technologies website at www.plianttechnologies.com/media/
resources/releasenotes/crewcom_release_notes.pdf
Download the latest rmware release from https://plianttechnologies.com/downloads.
CrewCom Overview
CrewCom is a versatile yet straightforward communications solution built on an intelligent wireless and wired network-based
distributed system architecture. Innovative technologies have been specically developed to facilitate intercom system growth
and effortless adaptation, along with unparalleled digital wireless reliability for consistent operation, even in the most demanding
production environments.
3
Introduction
HUB MANUAL
Decentralized Network Architecture
The CrewCom system utilizes a proprietary network backbone, known as CrewNet™, to coordinate and transport all system timing,
audio, signaling, and controls. This efcient, decentralized resource network delivers increased exibility over that of traditional
technologies, using a distributed network-to-device intelligence within a modular building block structure. System components can
easily be placed where they are needed or scaled to facilitate system growth, reconguration, and effortless adaptation to changing
environments. For increased infrastructure exibility, the CrewNet network is capable of operating over standard Cat 5e (or greater)
and/or Single Mode Fiber (SMF) lines.
Flexible RF Platform
CrewCom’s RF platform is vast and exible to meet the needs of virtually any wireless communication challenge facing production
and entertainment professionals worldwide. Each CrewCom wireless product is available in the 2.4GHz and 900MHz (North
America, Australia, and New Zealand only) ISM bands and any combination of these frequency ranges may be simultaneously
used on the same CrewCom system. CrewCom makes it easy to operate in challenging RF environments by combining support for
multiple simultaneous frequency bands, while also allowing for simple system setup without the need for an RF engineer.
In addition, a more robust RF link enhances RF range and reliability through a newly developed dual carrier double-send
transmission scheme that minimizes the adverse effects of inter-symbol interference. This innovation allows increased useful RF
range and improved performance, especially in large, reective environments.
Intuitive User Experience
CrewCom’s family of products is designed around a system architecture that offers a high density of users with a more manageable
infrastructure and lower cost per user than typically found in large-scale wireless installations. The CrewCom system not only
consists of a range of wired and wireless hardware products but also incorporates an intuitive software application, known as
CrewWare, working together with the system hardware to enhance the experience of system administrators, designers, integrators,
and users. Each device’s user interface allows a quick learning curve with high functionality, and its ease of use is consistent across
all frequency bands, types of users, and applications.
CrewCom Devices
The following is a list of available CrewCom devices. For more information on each of these products and their conguration
capabilities, visit our website at: www.plianttechnologies.com
• Control Unit (CU) – the 1RU foundational element of the CrewCom system that establishes the CrewNet-based
infrastructure while also providing external connections to common established intercom systems. Unlike traditional
BaseStations, the CU contains no radio and is frequency agnostic, which sets the groundwork for a multi-frequency
capable system. For maximum exibility, any CU can access, control, and monitor any active device across CrewNet. The
CU is available in a “CCU-22” or “CCU-44” model, which simultaneously support up to (2) 2-Wire and (2) 4-Wire or (4)
2-Wire and (4) 4-Wire intercom connections, respectively.
• Radio Transceiver (RT) – a CrewCom radio device that houses a radio (2.4GHz or 900MHz) and its corresponding
antennas, enabling RF communications to CrewCom Radio Packs. Using the CrewNet network as the system’s backbone,
RTs can be positioned throughout a wide coverage area by being linked back to a Control Unit either directly or through
a Hub(s). Connectivity is accomplished using either Cat 5e (or greater) or Single Mode Fiber (SMF).
• Radio Pack (RP) – the direct portable wireless communication device connecting individual CrewCom users to the
CrewCom system. Each RP provides full duplex audio communications and, through customized function buttons, GPO
control and event logging. The RP requires a connected headset and access to a Radio Transceiver on the CrewCom
system. Devices are available in 2.4GHz and 900MHz bands as well as two and four volume/talk button congurations.
• Copper Hub – a CrewNet-based device with eight ports to allow extended interconnection for a variety of CrewCom
hardware. Ports one through seven are copper (RJ-45, Cat 5e, or greater); port eight can be either an additional copper
port or a duplex LC Single Mode Fiber port, but only one may be used at a time. The Hub provides for extensive system
expansion and exibility.
4
Introduction
• Fiber Hub – a CrewNet-based device with eight ports to allow extended interconnection for a variety of CrewCom
hardware. Ports two through eight are duplex LC Single Mode Fiber ports; port one can be either an additional ber port
or a copper port (RJ-45, Cat 5e, or greater), but only one may be used at a time. The Hub provides for extensive system
expansion and exibility.
HUB MANUAL
CrewCom Conguration File Overview
The CrewCom system operates using a CrewCom Conguration File (CCF) to coordinate the processes and data that make up the
system’s operation. A default CCF is available for your CrewCom system out of the box to provide your initial settings. You can use
CrewWare to customize your conguration to meet your specic needs beyond the default settings. The CCF stores the settings for
your Conferences and Proles, intercom settings, and connection information for your 2-Wire, 4-Wire, and CrewCom devices.
Conferences and Proles work together to create channels of communication between CrewCom users. They are dened for each
user, stored in the CCF, and available each time you set up. For more information about Conferences and Proles, continue reading
the following sections for their denition.
About Conferences
A CrewCom Conference is an administrator-dened grouping of audio entities (inputs such as Radio Packs, wired intercom ports,
etc.). Audio outputs are then created dynamically by mixing one or more audio entities and routing them to Conference subscribers
accordingly. This method of subscription-based audio using Conferences is very powerful. Point-to-point associations may also be
easily constructed using this method. Each association requires a separate, unique Conference. Conferences in CrewCom are full
duplex (i.e. bidirectional) and there can be a maximum of 64.
Default Conferences are included as part of a system’s default conguration. New Conferences can be created using CrewWare.
About Proles
Each CrewCom Radio Pack has a Prole that contains a variety of system settings that are dened as either global prole settings
or user settings. A Radio Pack Prole assigns functionality to an RP’s local controls, knobs, and buttons (including Conference
assignments), and allows customization for user preferences and roaming
• Global Prole Settings - These settings are part of the CrewCom Conguration File and are usually assigned by
a system administrator through customization in CrewWare during setup. Find a full list of the global prole settings
available for each Radio Pack in the CrewWare Operating Manual or the Radio Pack Operating Manual.
• User Settings - A user setting is one that is classied as being adjustable by the Radio Pack user and is limited to local
device settings that do not alter the CrewCom Conguration File. The Prole can be used to determine these settings, but
they can also be customized directly from a Radio Pack after a Prole is loaded.
About Network Power
Power-Over-CrewNet (PoC) is a proprietary network protocol that provides operating voltage and current to CrewNet-compatible
devices connected to the Control Unit via RJ-45 connections (Cat-5e or greater). Control Units must receive AC power via the
supplied power cord in order to operate and provide necessary PoC to connected CrewNet-compatible devices.
To ensure best performance, especially with larger CrewCom congurations and longer cable lengths, Pliant recommends utilizing
the supplied 48VDC power supply to locally power each Hub. However, powering a Hub and the devices connected to it via PoC
may be advantageous in some smaller congurations. Fiber connections will not transfer power to the Hub. The supplied
48VDC Power Supply (PPS-48V-02 with CHB-8C-02 and CHB-8F, PPS-48V with CHB-8C) must be used in conjunction with a ber
connection in order for the Hub to operate.
PoC can be supplied to devices downstream from a locally powered CrewCom Copper Hub. Under optimal conditions, connected
CrewCom devices may be powered from a locally powered Hub; however, this number can vary greatly depending on the line
lengths and the number and conguration of those connected devices.
5
Product Overview
C D E F G
A
B
®
Front
Rear
HUB MANUAL
Product Overview
The CrewCom Hub operates on CrewNet and allows a variety of CrewCom devices to be interconnected. The Hub consists of
CrewNet ports that enable users to add more CrewCom devices, such as Radio Transceivers, in order to extend the connection of
their CrewCom system.
The Hub is a 1RU half-rack-mount capable device. A maximum of 32 hubs (within up to four Hub layers) can be on a CrewCom
system. See “About Hub Layers” on page 10 for more information.
There are two types of CrewCom Hubs: the Copper Hub and the Fiber Hub.
CrewCom Copper Hub
The Copper Hub (CHB-8C-02) has eight ports for copper connections and one ber-optic port.
Port 8 is an “either/or” connection. The eighth copper port and the ber port cannot operate simultaneously; the user must choose
one or the other. See “Connecting to CrewNet” on page 9 of this manual for more information about choosing between copper
and ber.
Note: The front and rear Copper Hub labels and LEDs are identical and display identical alerts. This allows for both
front and/or rear face mounting. See Figure 1:
Figure 1: Copper Hub Front and Rear View
6
Product Overview
HUB MANUAL
(A) USB Connection
Connects Hub to a computer to update rmware. See the
CrewWare Manual
for more information on updating rmware.
(B) CREWNET Port Labels and Status LEDs for Ports 1–8
The front and rear Copper Hub labels and LEDs are identical and display identical alerts. The port status LEDs indicate the CrewNet
connection status. See the Operation section on page 11 for more LED information.
(C) 48VDC Power Connection
Power connection for the Pliant 48VDC Power Supply (PPS-48V-02 included with CHB-8C-02 and CHB-8F, PPS-48V included with
CHB-8C PPS-48V-02), which allows the Hub to receive external (local) power.
To ensure best performance, especially with larger CrewCom congurations and longer cable lengths, Pliant recommends utilizing
the supplied 48VDC power supply to locally power each Hub. However, powering a Hub and the devices connected to it via PoC may
be advantageous in some smaller congurations.
(D) ERROR LED
Device error status indicator. This LED function is currently not available. See the Operation section on page 11 of this manual for
more LED information.
(E) External (Local) Power (EXT PWR) LED
Indicates that external (local) power is being provided via a Pliant 48VDC Power Supply. See the Operation section on page 11 of
this manual for more LED information.
(F) Network Power (NET PWR) LED
Indicates the Hub is receiving PoC via Port 1. The LED indicates the presence and strength of this PoC.
The Hub must be connected to Port 1 via a Cat 5e (or greater) copper cable in order for it to receive PoC. If PoC is not used, the Hub
must be powered externally by a Pliant 48VDC Power Supply.
(G) CREWNET Ports 1–8 and Status LEDs
The CrewNet ports allow the Hub to connect to the CrewCom Control Unit and Radio Transceivers, supporting a proprietary network
design where all devices are part of a CrewCom Conguration File that shares data, timing synchronization, and audio. Ports 1
through 7 are copper (RJ-45, Cat 5e or greater); Port 8 can be either the last copper port or the separate duplex LC Single Mode
Fiber port, and only one may be used at a time.
Note: Port 1 cannot power devices. It can only accept power, and this power is indicated with the NET PWR LED.
Since Port 1 cannot source power to downstream devices, even if the Hub is locally powered, any device
connected to this port will require its own local power supply. To ensure best performance, especially with
larger CrewCom congurations and longer cable lengths, Pliant recommends utilizing the supplied 48VDC
power supply to locally power each Hub. However, powering a Hub and the devices connected to it via PoC
may be advantageous in some smaller congurations.
Each port’s status LEDs indicate the status of the CrewNet connection. See the Operation section on page 11 of this manual for
more LED information.
7
Product Overview
Front
Rear
B
A
HUB MANUAL
CrewCom Fiber Hub
The Fiber Hub (CHB-8F) functions identically to the Copper Hub, except it has eight ports for ber optic connections and one copper
port.
Port 1 is an “either/or” connection, and use of Port 1 is required for downstream operation of ports 2–8. The rst ber port and the
copper port cannot operate simultaneously; the user must choose one or the other. See “Connecting to CrewNet” on page 9 of
this manual for more information about choosing between copper and ber.
Note: The front and rear Fiber Hub labels and LEDs are identical and display identical alerts. See Figure 2:
Figure 2: Fiber Hub Front and Rear View
(A) CREWNET Port Labels and Status LEDs for Ports 1–8
The front and rear Fiber Hub labels and LEDs are identical and display identical alerts. The port status LEDs indicate the CrewNet
connection status. See the Operation section on page 11 for more information.
(B) CREWNET Ports 1–8 and Status LEDs
The CrewNet ports allow the Hub to connect to the CrewCom Control Unit and Radio Transceivers, supporting a proprietary network
design where all devices are part of a CrewCom Conguration File that shares data, timing synchronization, and audio. Ports 2
through 8 are duplex LC Single Mode Fiber ports; Port 1 can be either the rst ber port or the copper (RJ-45, Cat 5e or greater)
port, and only one may be used at a time.
Note: Port 1 (copper only) is only capable of PoC input, and Port 1 cannot supply PoC output. Either copper or
ber use of Port 1 is required for downstream operation of ports 2–8.
Each port’s status LEDs indicate the status of the CrewNet connection. See the Operation section on page 11 of this manual for
more LED information.
8
Setup and Installation
HUB MANUAL
Setup and Installation
Determining the Device Location
Determine a location for your CrewCom Hub.
• If rack-mounting, secure using its rack-mounting hardware. They can be mounted either single or two side by side.
(Mounting hardware, PAC-RMK-S and PAC-RMK-D, sold separately).
• Or place the device on a clean, at surface. For your convenience, stick-on rubber feet are included with the Hub.
Connecting to CrewNet
After securely placing the Hub, connect it to other CrewCom devices via its available CrewNet ports. Device port connections must
match the CCF in order to operate. Pliant recommends making all cable connections between devices prior to powering on the
system. Adding and removing devices in live mode (often referred to as “hot-plugging” or “hot-swapping”) may cause system errors
to occur.
• RJ-45 Ports – For an RJ-45 copper CrewNet port, use the supplied 6.6 ft. (2 m) Cat 5e cable, or your own Cat 5e (or
greater) cable (up to 330 ft. (100 m) in length). Any CrewCom device connected to CrewNet via a Cat 5e (or greater)
cable can receive Power-over-CrewNet (PoC) via the CrewNet port. In some situations, there may be too many connected
devices or the cable lengths may be too long for the PoC to adequately power all devices, and this will be indicated
with the NET PWR LED lighting red. To ensure best performance, especially with larger CrewCom congurations and
longer cable lengths, Pliant recommends utilizing the supplied 48VDC power supply to locally power each Hub. However,
powering a Copper Hub and the devices connected to it via PoC may be advantageous in some smaller congurations.
• Fiber (Optical) Ports - For a ber CrewNet port, a Single Mode Fiber cable (duplex LC connector) will be required
(up to 32,800 ft. (10 km) in length). Any CrewCom device connected to CrewNet via ber port must receive power via a
Pliant 48VDC power supply (PPS-48V-02 included with CHB-8C-02 and CHB-8F, PPS-48V included with CHB-8C; power
supply sold separately with all other devices).
9
Setup and Installation
HUB MANUAL
About Hub Layers
Any additional Hub cascaded from a previous Hub is considered a new Hub layer. Cascading can be direct from a previous Hub or
through another CrewNet device. (See a diagram of some possible Hub congurations in Figure 3.) A helpful way of determining
Hub layers is to count how many Hubs you pass through to reach the Master CU, including the starting Hub.
Hub Layer 1 Hub Layer 2 Hub Layer 3 Hub Layer 4
44 Master
CU
CCU_44_001
44 Secondary
CU
CCU_44_002
44 Tertiary
CU
CCU_44_003
Figure 3: Hub Layer Examples
HB
HB
Copper
CHB_8C_001
Copper
CHB_8C_003
HB
HB
Copper
CHB_8C_002
Copper
CHB_8C_004
HB
Fiber
CHB_8F_001
HB
Legend
Copper
Fiber
Fiber
CHB_8F_002
Powering the Device
After connecting your CrewCom devices, power everything on and verify that your Hub is receiving power by checking that the
applicable Power LED is green. PoC can be supplied to devices downstream from a locally powered CrewCom Copper Hub. Under
optimal conditions, 7–9 connected CrewCom devices may be powered from a locally powered Copper Hub; however, this number
varies greatly depending on the line lengths and the number and conguration of those connected devices.
Once the CU is powered on, you can tell that a conguration error has occurred with the Hub if a connected RT’s TX LED is not
lit and its RPs do not log in. The conguration error may be present in the RT or other device upstream. If you are connected to
CrewWare, it will alert you of any rmware or conguration errors needing resolution.If a device does not have compatible rmware,
follow the instructions provided in the
CrewWare Manual
to update to the correct version
.
Note: See the Connecting to CrewNet section above for more information on how power is distributed for all
connected CrewCom devices.
Activating the Device
If you need to add additional CrewCom devices (e.g., a Hub, RT, or additional Control Units) after you’ve applied your CrewCom
Conguration File, you’ll need to power down your system and add the devices while powered down and ofine.
Connect the additional CrewCom device(s) to CrewNet via an available CrewNet RJ-45 Copper or duplex LC Fiber port. Add the
device(s) to your system diagram in CrewWare, then save the Conguration File change and apply the new Conguration File to
your system.
Advanced device settings and system conguration and customization can be done via CrewWare. Refer to the separate
Operating Manual
for more information on this process.
CrewWare
10
Operation
HUB MANUAL
Operation
Understanding the Hub LEDs
Each LED on the Front and Rear of the Hub display identical connection and power status information, allowing the user to monitor
the device easily from both a free-standing or rack mount conguration.
Table 1: Hub LED Descriptions
Connection/LED Description
ERROR LED This LED function is currently not available.
EXT PWR LED Green – External (local) power is present.
Off – No external (local) power is present.
NET PWR LED Green – Power-over-CrewNet (PoC) is adequate for operation with current connections.
Amber – PoC is approaching the minimum threshold with current connections.
Off – No PoC is present.
CREWNET Status LEDs Left Green – CrewNet connection is good.
Off – No CrewNet connection detected.
Right On (Green) – 1000 Mbps link is detected.
Blinking (Green) – Activity is detected.
Off – No CrewNet connection detected.
11
Product Specifications
Product Specications
Table 2: Hub Product Specications
Specication* CHB-8C-02 CHB-8F
CrewNet Ports (8 total connections) (7) RJ-45 for copper; (1) RJ-45 for
copper or duplex LC for Single Mode
Fiber
Maximum CrewNet Line Length Copper 330 ft. (100 m); Fiber 32,800 ft.
(10,000 m)
External Power In 48VDC Power Supply 48VDC Power Supply
Power-over-CrewNet (PoC) In Port 1 (RJ-45) Port 1 (RJ-45)
Power-over-CrewNet (PoC) Out Sourced by PoC: Ports 2–8;
Sourced by external power: Ports 2–8
Dimensions (L × W × H) 8.62 in. × 1.73 in. × 8.68 in. (21.9 cm ×
4.4 cm × 22 cm)
Weight 1.75 lbs (794 g) 1.75 lbs (794 g)
Operating Environment -20° to 50° C (-4° to 122° F); 10% to
90% Humidity.
Maximum Altitude 6,562 ft. (2,000 m) 6,562 ft. (2,000 m)
RoHS Yes Yes
(7) duplex LC for Single Mode Fiber; (1) RJ45 for copper or duplex LC for Single Mode
Fiber
Copper 330 ft. (100 m); Fiber 32,800 ft.
(10,000 m)
N/A
8.62 in. × 1.73 in. × 8.68 in. (21.9 cm × 4.4
cm × 22 cm)
-20° to 50° C (-4° to 122° F); 10% to 90%
Humidity.
HUB MANUAL
*Notice About Specications: While Pliant makes every attempt to maintain the accuracy of the information contained in this
manual, this information is subject to change without notice, and published device/system functions and features are subject to
rmware version. . Please check our website for the latest system specications and certications.
12
Product Support
HUB MANUAL
Product Support
Pliant offers technical support via phone and email from 07:00 to 19:00 Central Time (UTC−06:00), seven days per week.
1.844.475.4268 or +1.334.321.1160
technical.support@plianttechnologies.com
Visit www.plianttechnologies.com for product support, documentation, and live chat for help. (Live chat available 08:00 to 17:00
Central Time (UTC−06:00), Monday–Friday.)
Returning Equipment for Repair or Maintenance
All questions and/or requests for a Return Authorization Number should be directed to the Customer Service department
(customer.service@plianttechnologies.com). Do not return any equipment directly to the factory without rst obtaining a Return
Material Authorization (RMA) Number. Obtaining a Return Material Authorization Number will ensure that your equipment is
handled promptly.
All shipments of Pliant products should be made via UPS, or the best available shipper, prepaid and insured. The equipment should
be shipped in the original packing carton; if that is not available, use any suitable container that is rigid and of adequate size to
surround the equipment with at least four inches of shock-absorbing material. All shipments should be sent to the following address
and must include a Return Material Authorization Number:
Pliant Technologies Customer Service Department
Attn: Return Material Authorization #
205 Technology Parkway
Auburn, AL 36830-0500
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Maintenance and Storage
HUB MANUAL
Maintenance and Storage
Cleaning
Generally, the CrewCom hardware should be cleaned only with a dry cloth. A soft cloth with rubbing alcohol may be used to wipe
the devices if needed, but you should avoid using rubbing alcohol on plastic components. Never spray solvents or chemicals onto
the devices.
All electronic devices can be susceptible to particulate contamination. If yours are exposed to an extremely dusty environment,
contact Pliant’s Customer Service for internal cleaning.
Temperature and Humidity
CrewCom components are designed to be very durable and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions; however, you
should take all necessary precautions to keep your system devices safe, dry, and out of extreme conditions.
The Radio Transceiver is weather-resistant, including gaskets intended to prevent moisture entry from the top and sides. The Cat 5e
cable connection on the bottom is not water tight. If it is to be used in an outdoor environment, protect the RT with a protective
enclosure that will not interfere with the RF.
The Radio Packs are designed to work wherever people work. While the Radio Pack design is weather-resistant, Radio Packs should
not be submerged in liquids unnecessarily. Protect the battery compartment from water when changing batteries. The battery
compartment offers a route to the electronic circuitry.
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License Information
HUB MANUAL
License Information
Warning: Changes or modications to this device not expressly approved by Pliant could void the user’s authority
to operate the equipment.
1. FCC Notices
1.1. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part
15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when
the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
2. Canada, Industry Canada (IC) Notices
2.1. This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference Causing Equipment
Regulations. Cet appareillage numérique de la classe A répond à toutes les exigencies de l’interférence canadienne
causant des règlements d’équipment.
CrewCom Compliance Numbers
Table 3: Hub Compliance Model Numbers
Model Numbers Compliance Model No.
CHB-8C HB2520
CHB-8C-02 HB2520
CHB-8F HB2521
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Warranty Information
HUB MANUAL
Warranty Information
Limited Warranty
CrewCom products are warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of two years from the date of
sale to the end user, under the following conditions:
• First year of warranty included with purchase.
• Second year of warranty requires product registration on the Pliant website.
Tempest professional products will carry a two-year product warranty.
All accessories carry a one-year warranty.
The sole obligation of Pliant Technologies, LLC during the warranty period is to provide, without charge, parts and labor necessary to
remedy covered defects appearing in products returned prepaid to Pliant Technologies, LLC. This warranty does not cover any defect,
malfunction, or failure caused by circumstances beyond the control of Pliant Technologies, LLC, including but not limited to negligent
operation, abuse, accident, failure to follow instructions in the Operating Manual, defective or improper associated equipment,
attempts at modication and/or repair not authorized by Pliant Technologies, LLC, and shipping damage. Products with their serial
numbers removed or effaced are not covered by this warranty.
Pliant device IP ratings are dependent upon device design and assembly; therefore, unauthorized disassembly or device
modications may impair or negate the IP rating for the device, and therefore any associated damage or malfunction is not covered
under this warranty.
This limited warranty is the sole and exclusive express warranty given with respect to Pliant Technologies, LLC products. It is the
responsibility of the user to determine before purchase that this product is suitable for the user’s intended purpose. ANY AND
ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, ARE LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF
THIS EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY. NEITHER PLIANT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC NOR ANY AUTHORIZED RESELLER WHO SELLS PLIANT
PROFESSIONAL INTERCOM PRODUCTS IS LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND.
Parts Limited Warranty
Replacement parts for Pliant Technologies, LLC products are warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for
120 days from the date of sale to the end user.
This warranty does not cover any defect, malfunction, or failure caused by circumstances beyond the control of Pliant Technologies,
LLC, including but not limited to negligent operation, abuse, accident, failure to follow instructions in the Operating Manual,
defective or improper associated equipment, attempts at modication and/or repair not authorized by Pliant Technologies, LLC, and
shipping damage. Any damage done to a replacement part during its installation voids the warranty of the replacement part.
This limited warranty is the sole and exclusive express warranty given with respect to Pliant Technologies, LLC products. It is the
responsibility of the user to determine before purchase that this product is suitable for the user’s intended purpose. ANY AND
ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, ARE LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF
THIS EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY. NEITHER PLIANT TECHNOLOGIES, LLC NOR ANY AUTHORIZED RESELLER WHO SELLS PLIANT
PROFESSIONAL INTERCOM PRODUCTS IS LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND.
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Glossary
HUB MANUAL
Glossary
Audio Output: Outputs are created by mixing one or more audio entities. This could be for use at any headset connection or for
output to a wired connection.
Conference: A grouping of audio entities. Wireless Radio Packs (or other CrewCom I/O) may be subscribed to one or more of 64
available Conferences.
Control Unit (CCU-22 and CCU-44): A CrewCom device that is used to establish a CrewNet system and provides initial system
audio I/O. It is compatible with all levels of wireless Radio Packs.
CrewCom Conguration File (CCF): A le that stores all of the device setup and conguration parameters for a CrewCom system.
CrewNet: The digital proprietary network used to move audio and to control data, timing, and other functional signals used in
CrewCom.
CrewWare: Software tool developed to incorporate all the necessary mechanisms for facilitating graphically based system
construction and full system control, monitoring, and diagnosis.
Firmware: (As it relates to CrewCom.) The embedded code that exists in any CrewCom device. All of this embedded code, including
radio code, is upgradeable easily by the end user. It is required that all CrewCom devices operate on the same version of rmware.
Hub: A device that provides routing and expansion capabilities to a CrewNet infrastructure allowing the connection of multiple
CrewCom devices.
Hub Layer: The combining of multiple Copper and/or Fiber Hubs on a CrewCom system. Each additional Hub cascaded from a
previous Hub is a new layer. Cascading can be direct from a previous Hub or routed through another CrewNet compatible device. A
maximum of 32 hubs can be connected across four layers.
ISM Bands: Industrial, Scientic, and Medical Bands. A part of the radio spectrum that can be used for any purpose without a
license in most countries.
Power-Over-CrewNet: A proprietary network protocol that provides operating voltage and current to devices that are connected to the
CrewCom Control Unit.
Prole: A Radio Pack (RP) Prole assigns functionality to a RP’s local controls, knobs, and buttons as well as what Conferences it subscribes to.
Radio Pack: The direct portable wireless communication device connecting individual CrewCom users to the CrewCom system. Sometimes
commonly referred to as a BeltPack.
Radio Transceiver: A device used to remotely locate a radio and its corresponding antenna to provide an expanded coverage area.
System Administrator: A CrewCom top-level user who has conguration knowledge and capabilities. Certain system changes
should be performed by the administrator.
Wired Intercom: Any hard wired duplex audio port for getting audio in or out of a system.
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Index
HUB MANUAL
Index
Symbols
2-Wire 4, 5
4-Wire 4, 5
A
AC Power 2
Audio Output 5
C
Cat 5e. SeeCopper
Conference 5
Control Unit 4, 7
Overview 4
Copper 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12
CrewCom Conguration File 5, 7, 10
CrewNet 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12
CrewWare 4, 5, 7, 10
S
Subscriber 5
Subscription 5
System Administrator 5
W
Warranty 3, 15
Wired Intercom 5
F
Fiber 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12
Firmware 7
H
Hub 4, 10
Operation 11
Safety 1
Specications 12
Hub Layer 10, 17
I
ISM Bands 4
L
LED 6, 7, 8, 11
P
PoC. SeePower-over-CrewNet
Power-over-CrewNet 5, 7, 9, 11, 12
Prole 5
R
Radio Pack 3, 4, 5
Radio Transceiver 4, 10
RJ-45 9, 10, 12
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HUB MANUAL
Pliant Technologies, LLC
205 Technology Parkway
Auburn, AL 36830 USA
www.plianttechnologies.com
Phone +1.334.321.1160
Toll-Free 1.844.475.4268 or 1.844.4PLIANT
Fax +1.334.321.1162
Copyright ©2018–2019 Pliant Technologies. All rights reserved. The Pliant®, CrewCom®, and CrewNet™ word marks and the Pliant “P”
logo are trademarks of Pliant Technologies, LLC. Any and all other trademark references within this document are property of their respective
owners.
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