Unlike other networked audio systems, Dante works with commonly available inexpensive networking hardware.
nicely with networked audio. EEE aims to Ethercon connectors when possible. This cable as well. Check with your network IT staff to see
reduce power consumption when network connects much like an XLR microphone cable, what your church is using.
traffic levels are low, but the tech can with a solid ruggedized latching connection sometimes misjudge the situation and cause and a metal sleeve to protect the RJ45 Now that the basic nuts and bolts of the
poor audio sync and even dropouts if it is connection inside. hardware Ethernet switch and cabling is
left enabled in a Dante scenario. So, make
covered, let’s turn to a few FAQs that come
sure that your switch doesn’t support EEE or Note that if you happen to have a network in up around design and configuration of a
allows for EEE to be disabled. place at your church that utilizes fiber instead Dante system:
of copper, you are still good to go with Dante.
• Choose a managed switch. A managed As Dante uses standards-based networking, • “One of the connections I would need is a bit
(vs. an unmanaged) switch provides helpful a fiber switch can be used just as easily with far away, can I use WiFi to connect to that
network link information (bandwidth, port the right settings and connections in place at point?” This would be awesome and maybe
speed, etc.) and they are more likely to allow each point. The basic network design would be someday in the distant future WiFi specs get
for disabling of EEE. the same since Ethernet isn’t inherently copper to the point where this would be stable, but
or fiber-based and is independent of any for now you’ll need to run CAT5e cable.
No matter which switch you select, it is particular cabling medium. In most situations, • “Do I need to run the Dante network audio
important to get your Ethernet cable spec right. CAT5e EtherCon copper cable is the norm— as its own separate network?” One of the
The recommendation here is to go with CAT5e but Dante is perfectly happy running on fiber coolest aspects of Dante is the ability to send
or CAT6 cable. This cable can be procured at
mass market electronics stores (like Best Buy,
etc.), but it is worth checking out more of a
touring-grade cable and connector solution
like the ProCo shielded cable with Neutrik’s
Heavy duty locking EtherCon
connections stable and secure.
cables
keep
May 2019
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