|
SUCCESSFULLY SPECIFYING YOUR SYSTEM
|
|
Multichannel distribution systems are generally constructed of but not
necessarily limited to the following basic building blocks:
-
An input box or panel
-
Multipin - multipin interconnect cables (C Series)
-
Inline multipin to connector fanout (FM series)
-
Chassis multipin pre-wired to tails (PK series)
-
MASS Punch termination punchdown blocks and panels
-
Labeling and engraving
Follow these simple guidelines to ensure that the system you want is the one we
deliver.
-
MAKE A DIAGRAM
. Include all of the boxes, panels and cables. Specify each connector type and
gender, all lengths of cables and indicate all labels or engraving.
-
Follow these design rules to ensure system and connector compatibility:
-
When specifying connectors, a male connector must always mate with a female
connector.
-
Male connectors are those with exposed contacts (pins) and female connectors
are those with recessed contacts (sockets).
-
For Whirlwind W3, W4, W5 and W6 MASS and MicroMASS connectors which have both
male and female contacts, it is necessary to change connector gender
terminology to "Wired as OUTPUT" (O) and "Wired as INPUT" (I). An OUTPUT MASS
connector must always be matched by an INPUT MASS connector.
(See
FAQ - Wiring MASS Connectors
for a complete explanation of MASS connector wiring and terminology.)
-
Remember, the total number of input and output channels cannot exceed the
capacity of the multipair cable and multipin connectors you are specifying. It
seems obvious but can slip by when changes are made. If you specify 32 inputs
with 16 returns (48 total channels), you can't use a W3 with its maximum
capacity of 40 channels.
Below, you will find the components necessary for specifying your custom wiring
system. Follow the links and refer to the component part number charts as an
aid in determining the options available when constructing your diagram.
But remember, the design of your custom system is only limited by your imagination
and "wish list". Visit the Whirlwind Custom Shop
to get some ideas and view some examples of our capabilities.
In addition, our design specialists are always available to help guide you through to your dream
system. Contact them at:
jackie@1staudiousa.com
or call toll free, 800 816-4262 Mon - Fri Eastern Time.
.jpg)
|
STAGE BOXES AND RACK PANELS
This is the starting point where your mic lines are connected into the system
and where microphone splitting may take place - either parallel or with
transformer isolation. Also, provisions can be made for ground lift switches,
multipin subsnake inputs and return lines sent back to the stage from the mix
position. You may specify EIA 19" rack panel or free standing, fully enclosed
steel box. Rack panels are .090" thick aluminum and available with or without
backbox enclosure and boxes are 14-gauge cold rolled steel with black powder
coat finish. When using multipin connectors, follow the previously outlined
design rules to ensure compatibility with other systems in use around the world.
When splitting signals, remember that phantom power will only pass through a
direct or parallel split connection. Transformer isolated splits WILL NOT pass
phantom power. Please refer to tech article
Microphone Splitters
for more in depth information regarding mic splitters.
Refer to the chart found on
Stage Boxes and Rack Panels
to view and specify the most common options requested with boxes, panels and
split outputs.
|
C SERIES MULTILINE INTERCONNECTS
These multipin-to-multipin cable assemblies are designed to interconnect the
components of Custom Multichannel Distribution and Concert Series systems.
These cables use Whirlwind inline W-Series multipin connectors: (W1 for up to
12 channels, W2 for up to 20 channels) or MASS series connectors (W5 up for to
16 channels, W6 for up to 28 channels, W3 for up to 40 channels and W4 for up
to 58 channels).
The standard mating configuration of these cables is a male multipin on one end
and a female on the other (for W1 and W2) or a MASS connector wired as an INPUT
on one end and a MASS connector wired as an OUTPUT on the other (W5, W6, W3,
W4). Construct a part number from the chart found on
Multipin Interconnect Cables (C Series).
|
|
|
|
FM SERIES MULTIPIN TO FANOUT
These interconnects "fanout" your channels from a multipin input to individual
connectors. Individual mic channel connectors are WI3M numbered XLRs and return
line connectors are lettered WI3F XLRs or ¼" TRS plugs. Fanout lengths are 3'
up to 28 total channels and 4' for 28 channels and up.
Construct a part number from the chart found on
Fanouts.
|
PREWIRE KITS (PK)
These pre-wired chassis multipin assemblies will greatly simplify your
installation. Standard PKs feature a multipin connector wired to blunt tails
but may be custom ordered with varying length pieces and/or with individual
connectors pre-wired to the tails. Available with individually jacketed and
numbered foil shield 2-conductor (PKS) or Whirlwind multipair cable (PK).
Standard PK part numbers can be constructed from the chart found on
Multipin to Tails Pre-wire Kits (PK Kits).
|
 |
MASS PUNCH BLOCKS AND TERMINATION PANELS
Developed by Whirlwind and ADC engineers, the MASS punch system provides a
solid, gas tight connection system that can be terminated quickly and easily in
the field.
ADC's Quick Connect Punchdown technology completely eliminates tinning and
soldering resulting in a significant reduction of assembly and maintenance time.
These punch blocks are also available prewired to multipin connectors and
mounted on plates or panels. This greatly reduces the complexity of assembly in
the field and allows for quick and easy re-configuration. See more at
mass01.html.
ENGRAVING SERVICES
|
Promote your company, permanently ID your cables and equipment and add that
extra touch of professionalism. Organize functions or even add your business
logo to your connectors
panels and plates. See more at
engrav01.html.
|
|
