Studio Technologies 214 - Manual (Page 9)

Model 214 User Guide Issue 1, July 2014
Studio Technologies, Inc. Page 9
On the input side, the Model 214 allows
up to four headphone cue sources to be
received from an audio console, matrix
intercom system, or a variety of other
Dante-enabled devices; the sources don’t
need to originate from the same device.
“Program” audio could be supplied by
an audio console while “IFB” (interrupted
foldback or talent cue) audio could be
supplied by a matrix intercom system.
Ethernet Data, PoE, and DC
Power Source
The Model 214 connects to a data network
using a standard 100 Mb/s twisted-pair
Ethernet interface. The physical intercon-
nection is made by way of a Neutrik®
etherCON RJ45 connector. While compat-
ible with standard RJ45 plugs, etherCON
allows a ruggedized and locking intercon-
nection for harsh or high-reliability environ-
ments. The Model 214’s operating power
can be provided by way of the Ethernet
interface using the Power-over-Ethernet
(PoE) standard. This allows fast and
efficient interconnection with the associ-
ated data network. To support PoE power
management, the Model 214’s PoE inter-
face reports to the power sourcing equip-
ment (PSE) that it’s a class 2 (low power)
device. The unit can also be powered us-
ing an external source of 12 volts DC. For
redundancy, both power sources can be
connected simultaneously. If both sources
are connected PoE will power the unit.
Four LEDs display the status of the net-
work connection, PoE power source, and
Dante interface.
Configuration and Flexibility
Model 214 configurations are made using
twelve DIP switches and two pushbutton
switches. The 12-position switch array
configures parameters such as the push-
button operating modes, sidetone func-
tion, headphone control assignment, and
the system mode. The pushbuttons are
used to set the gain of the microphone
preamplifier and control the on/off status
of the microphone phantom power func-
tion. The switches and pushbuttons are
accessible via the bottom of the Model
214’s enclosure; the unit does not have to
be disassembled. Changes made to any
of the configuration parameters become
active immediately. To prevent unwanted
access to the configuration switches and
pushbuttons a security panel, included
with each unit, is attached to the bottom
of the enclosure.
In the world of broadcast and production
audio it’s fair to say that applications vary
widely. To this end, one or two additional
XLR connectors can easily be mounted
into the Model 214’s back panel. Multiple
3-position “headers” located on the Model
214’s circuit board provide technician
access to many of the input and output
connections. Using a variety of optional
factory-supplied modules and interface
cable kits allows a Model 214 to be opti-
mized to meet the needs of specific ap-
plications. For example, some applications
may prefer to use a multi-pin XLR connec-
tor to interface with a headset. This can
easily be accomplished by installing the
appropriate 6- or 7-pin XLR connector kit
and making a few simple connections.
Other applications may benefit from hav-
ing “mult” or “loop-through” connections,
something easily incorporated into a
Model 214. And access to the relay con-
tacts can be made adding a 4-pin XLR
connector kit.