Network design considerations, Repeater networks – QSC Audio S series User Manual
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REPEATER NETWORKS
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RAVE supports operation on network repeaters. These
repeaters should be 100 Mbps class II devices.
Collisions are prevented through CobraNet’s propri-
etary “order persistent” media access scheme. RAVE
invokes this access scheme by auto-sensing its link
partner (network hardware). In order to reliably
connect to a network repeater, the class II device
should not support auto-negotiation or 10 Mbps
operation.
Network Design Considerations:
Repeater Networks
Sample repeater network using Ethernet hubs with media conversion
All bundle distribution is multicast on network repeat-
ers. Additionally, since repeaters provide a half-duplex
connection to a shared media network, there is a limit of
8 bundles per LAN. This translates to a maximum of 64
audio channels per 100 Mbps LAN. A repeater network
must also be dedicated to CobraNet communications
only. Non-CobraNet data should not be directly connected
to the same network repeater. However, RAVE does pro-
vide a means to bridge serial data onto Ethernet via its
RS-232 interface. As with CobraNet audio on repeater
ports, serial data transmissions are available at all RS-
232 ports.