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8.3 EIA-485 Network Notes
EIA-485 network cabling has certain limitations that these notes summarize. Improper set-up of an EIA-485
network can result in faulty or no operation. To use EIA-485 network configurations or cabling schemes not
addressed in this manual, consult a qualified network professional.
8.3.1 CABLING NOTES:
1. Single Module or module cluster:
One end of the EIA-485 cable is connected to the computer’s EIA-485 port and the other to the EIA-
485 connector on the module or on one of the modules in a cluster.
2. Multiple Modules:
One end of the EIA-485 cable is connected to the computer’s EIA-485 port. The cable is then
connected daisy-chain fashion to multiple modules or clusters. This means to connect the EIA-485
cable from the computer to a module or cluster, then to loop it to additional modules or clusters. Use
the supplied RJ-45 Signal Link Cables to link modules within a cluster using the Signal Link jacks.
This cable also interconnects the audio between the modules.
3. DO use an EIA-485 hub when separate EIA-485 home runs to the computer are needed because of cable
routing constraints. Note: EIA-485 hubs often contain an RS-232 to EIA-485 converter.
4. DO use an EIA-485 hub to extend the length of the EIA-485 cabling beyond 1000 ft / 300 m.
Literature about EIA-485 claims maximum cable lengths of 4,000 ft. However, the fastest data rates
for a DSAi network, assuming ideal network conditions, limit the maximum to 2,800 ft / 850 m.
Performance variations for the network cable, connectors, EIA-485 drivers, and several other
variables can and often do further reduce this length. Therefore, this is the maximum recommended
length to ensure reliable communications.
5. DO use an EIA-485 hub to connect the EIA-485 network to more than 31 DSAi Clusters.
Each module within a multi module DSAi Cluster counts as one DSAi Cluster if they are all
connected DIRECTLY to the EIA-485 network using the EIA-485 Phoenix connectors. If the
modules within a multi-module DSAi Cluster are inter-connected via the Signal Link connectors, and
thus only one is connected directly to the EIA-485 network, then this counts as only one DSAi
cluster.
6. DO NOT connect the EIA-485 cabling to the modules in a star fashion.
This means do not home-run an EIA-485 cable from each module or cluster to the computer.
7. DO NOT connect the EIA-485 cabling between modules in a star fashion.
This means do not run an EIA-485 cable from one module or cluster to more than one other module
or cluster.
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