8 usb audio interface, 9 network connections, 10 system automation – Naim Audio NDS User Manual
Page 7: 11 external control and update sockets, Installation and connection

5
Installation and Connection
2.8 USB Audio Interface
The NDS is fitted with a front panel USB interface intended 
for the connection of USB memory hardware carrying 
audio files. The USB interface should not be used for any 
other purpose.
Most UMS (Universal Mass Storage) USB devices are 
compatible with the NDS USB audio input. Such devices 
might include portable digital music players, smart-phones, 
tablet computers, USB memory sticks and memory card 
readers.
2.9 Network Connections
The NDS can be connected to a TCP/IP network via either 
a wired or wireless connection. Network connection 
enables the NDS to play internet radio data streams or 
play audio files stored on UPnP™ servers such as the 
Naim UnitiServe and HDX, and appropriately configured 
computers and network drives.
2.9.1 Wired Network Connection
The NDS is fitted on its rear panel with a standard Ethernet 
socket. For wired network connection this socket should 
be connected to a spare Ethernet socket on your network 
router.
Note:
Ethernet-over-mains hardware may be used and
provides a simple and convenient method of wired home 
network connection. However, depending on mains wiring 
factors specific to each home environment, the presence 
of network data on the mains supply may compromise 
overall system sound quality. If any sound quality 
compromise is found to be unacceptable, dedicated 
network cabling should be installed or wireless networking 
should be employed.
2.9.2 Wireless Network Connection
If NDS is to connect wirelessly to the home network the 
supplied Wi-Fi antenna must be fitted to the rear panel 
wireless antenna socket. Wireless configuration will also be 
necessary before NDS is able to connect to your home 
network. See Section 4.5.1.
2.9.3 Network Settings
The NDS is set up when originally shipped not to require 
any on-site TCP/IP configuration but to connect to 
a network automatically (it uses DHCP by default). 
However, if your NDS has been previously used, its network 
configuration may have been altered leaving it unable 
to connect automatically. If this appears to be the case 
ensure that DHCP is selected in the Network Settings 
menu (see Section 4.5 of this manual) and re-start NDS. If 
problems still persist contact your retailer, installer or Naim 
Audio directly.
Note:
Before reporting network connection problems carry
out a Factory Reset operation. Select Reset All Settings 
from the Factory Settings setup menu. See Section 4.10.
Note:
An NDS switched on without a working wired network
connection will only be able to connect to a home 
network wirelessly. To use an Ethernet (wired) connection, 
switch the NDS off, connect the network and switch it on 
again.
Note:
For internet radio to operate, the NDS requires
connection to a high speed internet service.
2.10 System Automation
NDS control can be linked using
System Automation
to
the control of some Naim preamplifiers, CD players and 
the Naim DAC. System Automation enables for example, 
preamplifier inputs to be selected via the NDS, or for 
n-Stream
transport functions to control a CD player. To take
advantage of System Automation, connect one of the 
NDS rear panel 
Remote Out
sockets to a preamplifier, CD
player or DAC
Remote In
socket. Use a cable terminated
with a 3.5mm jack plug at one end and a 3.5mm jack or 
phono plug as necessary at the other end.
Using both NDS Remote Out sockets, for example, one 
connected to a preamplifier and one connected to a 
CD player, enables comprehensive system control via the 
n-Stream app.
Note:
Stereo and mono 3.5mm jack to 3.5mm jack can
be used for System Automation. If a stereo 3.5mm jack to 
phono plug cable is used, connect the left channel phono 
plug.
Note:
NDS System Automation is switched off by default. A
full description of its configuration and use can be found in 
Section 4.9.
2.11 External Control and Update Sockets
The NDS is fitted with a 3.5mm jack
Remote In
socket on
its rear panel. The Remote In socket can be used for RC5 
remote control via a fully wired connection or a remote IR 
repeater. 
The NDS is also fitted with a rear panel
mini-USB
socket. This
socket enables firmware upgrades and diagnostic tests to
