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Network design considerations, Repeater networks – QSC Audio S series User Manual

Page 28

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REPEATER NETWORKS

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.