General Considerations
UNIDEX consoles use RJ45 connectors for many of their inputs and outputs, using shielded CAT-5 multipair cable.
With the adoption of Audio over IP (AoIP), RJ45 connectors became standard, allowing multiple types of analog and digital connectors to be replaced by a single format. This simplifies installations and reduces the physical size of the consoles.
Structured cabling offers several advantages:
- A single type of cable is used for the entire installation.
- No soldering required.
- Can carry analog signals, digital audio, or data.
To connect conventional audio devices (microphones, speakers, players, interfaces), adapter cables are used, going from RJ45 female to the corresponding audio connector (XLR, TRS, RCA, etc.).
RJ45 connectors are reliable and durable only if properly installed.
- It is essential to avoid hanging cables that put strain on the connectors.
- UDX adapters must be properly secured and not left loose inside the rack or on the desk.
- Cable ducts or conduits are recommended for cable routing.
- For long runs, use RJ45-RJ45 and a short RJ45 female adapter to the required audio connector.
- Use high-quality STP or SFTP structured cable.
Avoid mixing audio cables with AC power cables. To prevent interference and hum, they must follow separate paths.
If there is persistent hum and ground connections are correct, it may be due to RF standing waves induced by the FM antenna. In these cases, it is recommended to place ferrite rings on all cables entering the console.
