Pathway LR Manual - Manual (Page 33)

DMXPathfinder LR Diagnostics
32
C
ROSSPOINT
T
ESTS
The functional backbone of the DMXPathfinder hardware is an electronic
crosspoint matrix device, which provides the DMX signal patching function.
Two such devices are included on the XPU (Crosspoint Unit) PC card in each
Output Module; one for transmitted signals and the other for received (talkback)
signals. The crosspoint devices are programmed in terms of both operational
arrangement and input/output configuration by the module CPU. A built-in set of
input/output diagnostic test routines are provided in the Pathfinder firmware to
allow the user to fully test each crosspoint device for proper function. These
tests are extensive enough to identify a “flaky” component as well as an outright
faulty one.
H
ARDWARE
T
ESTS
Each DMXPathfinder Output Module includes several hardware components
that are either essential to or contribute to the reliable operation of that particular
module. A set of miscellaneous diagnostic tests is provided to allow the user to
check for the proper functioning of these components, right from the system PC.
L OOPBACK T ESTS
The DMXPathfinder firmware incorporates a built-in set of input/output
diagnostic test routines. The purpose of the Loopback Tests is to allow the user
to verify the proper operation and integrity of each and every data receiver or
transmitter, crosspoint matrix device, cable and connection used for passing
DMX signals through the DMXPathfinder. The installed building cable may also
be checked for wiring mistakes or faults. To accomplish this, QConnect
provides the means of sequentially checking all Pathfinder hardware or
selecting a specific set of input or output circuitry for testing. The Pathfinder will
respond with the status of the test (passed or failed) and in the event of failure
will report the faulty circuit.
These tests require that a "loopback connector" be plugged into either the
optional insert jack on the face of the I/O module or the source/station jack at the
far end of the installed DMX cabling. Loopback connectors are standard 5-pin
XLRs with pins 2&4, and 3&5 connected. A female connector will be required
for testing the source (input) modules and cabling, while a male connector is
used to test the station (output) modules and cabling. Note that the installed
cabling cannot be tested unless both primary (pins 2&3) and auxiliary (pins 4&5)
wire pairs are installed and connected.