Studio Technologies 5204 Dual Line Input to Dante Interface User Guide Product Information
- June 1, 2024
- Studio Technologies
Table of Contents
5204 Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
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Product Information
Specifications
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Model: 5204
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Input: Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
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Audio Quality: Excellent with low distortion and noise, high
headroom -
Applications: TV, radio, streaming broadcast events, corporate
and government AV installations, Dante system testing -
Bit Depths: Up to 24
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Sample Rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 kHz
Product Usage Instructions
Line Input A
Using a 3-conductor (stereo) 3.5 mm jack, connect unbalanced
sources like personal computers or smartphones to Line Input A.
Line Input B
Sum the input signals to Line Input B for mixing purposes.
Metering
Two 7-step LED meters provide real-time level indication of the
two audio output channels, scaled in dBFS via Dante.
Ethernet Data and PoE
The dedicated charging port sources power from Ethernet with
Power over Ethernet (PoE) connection, supporting up to
approximately 5 watts.
Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
Audio data is sent using Dante Audio-over-Ethernet technology.
Assign audio channels to other devices via Dante Controller
software. Bit depths up to 24 and sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2,
96 kHz are supported.
FAQ
Q: How do I update the firmware of the integrated circuit?
A: The integrated circuit’s firmware can be updated via the
Ethernet connection to ensure its capabilities remain up to
date.
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Model 5204 Dual Line Input to Dante Interface
User Guide
Issue 3, December 2023 This User Guide is applicable for serial numbers
M5204-02001 and later with application firmware 1.3 and later and Dante
firmware 4.8.0 (UltimoX v4.2.8.2) and later.
Copyright © 2023 by Studio Technologies, Inc., all rights reserved studio-
tech.com
50278-1223, Issue 3
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Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Table of Contents
Revision History…………………………………………………………………. 4
Introduction……………………………………………………………………….. 5 Getting Started
………………………………………………………………….. 7 Connections………………………………………………………………………. 7 Dante
Configuration……………………………………………………………. 8
Operation………………………………………………………………………….. 8 Technical Notes
…………………………………………………………………. 10 Specifications ……………………………………………………………………. 13
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Revision History
Issue 3, December 2023:
· Revises format of document. · Documents use of UltimoX integrated circuit. ·
Notes support for AES67 and Dante Domain Manager (DDM).
Issue 2, August 2015:
· Documents enhanced unit identification feature. · Adds improvements to IP
address configuration assignment explanation.
Issue 1, August 2014:
· Initial release.
Issue 3, December 2023 Page 4
Model 5204 User Guide Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Introduction
The Model 5204 Interface is a general-purpose audio device that supports
applications utilizing the Dante® audio-over-Ethernet media networking
technology. Two 2-channel (“stereo”) analog line-level audio signals can be
connected to the Model 5204 and then converted to two channels on an
associated Dante connection.
Analog audio signals connect to line input A by way of a 3-conductor
(“stereo”) 3.5 mm jack. This allows the direct interfacing of signals from a
variety of sources such as personal audio and multimedia players, smartphones,
and personal computers. These signals typically have an average (nominal)
signal level in the range of 20 to 10 dBu. Line input B supports connection
of balanced analog audio signals using two XLR connectors. Average signal
levels for these types of signals are typically in the range of 0 to +4 dBu.
Each input has an associated dual-channel rotary level control to optimize its
audio performance. Following the level “pots” the signals from inputs A and B
are summed (combined or mixed together) to create one 2-channel signal. (The
channel 1 signals of line inputs A and B are summed to create output channel
1; channel 2 signals of line inputs A and B are summed to create output
channel 2.) The two channels are then output by way of the Dante interface.
Multi-step LED meters provide confirmation of the level of the two output
audio channels.
The audio quality of the Model 5204 is excellent, with low distortion and
noise and high headroom. Careful circuit design and excellent components
ensure long, reliable operation. A wide range of applications can be
supported, including TV, radio, and streaming broadcast events, corporate and
government AV installations, and Dante system testing.
For user convenience a dedicated charging port (DCP) is provided on a standard
USB type A connector. This allows powering and charging of associated devices,
such as personal audio players and tablets. The compact, lightweight design
allows the Model 5204 to be used in portable or desktop situations or deployed
as a permanent solution in fixed applications. Standard connectors ensure
fast, reliable deployment. The unit requires only an Ethernet connection to
supply both the data interface as well as Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) power. The
Model 5204’s audio, data, and dedicated charging port use power provided by
the PoE connection.
Applications
The Model 5204 is perfect for use in conjunction with a variety of fixed and
portable audio equipment that offer analog output signals. An obvious
application is with legacy equipment that only offers analog outputs. A few
simple connections are all that’s required to covert those signals into the
world of Audio-over-Ethernet. When deploying, maintaining, or modifying Dante
networks the unit can be a useful test tool, offering a simple, high-quality
means of creating a 2-channel signal source. For permanent applications
there’s no reason why a Model 5204 can’t reside within an equipment rack or be
mounted, using optional brackets, underneath a table or on-air studio set. In
a conference room setting the unit can be permanently connected to a PoE-
enabled Ethernet port, ready to accept a signal source from various user-
provided devices.
Line Input A
Using a 3-conductor (“stereo”) 3.5 mm jack, it’s a simple matter to connect
unbalanced sources to the Model 5204’s line input A. These signals would
typically be provided by personal computers, smartphones,
Figure 1. Model 5204 Dual Line Input to Dante Interface front and rear views
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or personal audio devices which have average (nominal) levels in the range of
20 to 10 dBu. One rotary control is used to adjust the input level, making
it a simple task to optimize the conversion of the input analog audio source
to the Dante output. The level knob is a push-in/push-out type which helps
prevent inadvertent adjustment.
Line Input B
The Model 5204’s line input B is designed for use with professional line-level
analog audio signals. The 2-channel input is electronically balanced,
capacitor-coupled, and uses two standard 3-pin female XLR connectors. A single
rotary level control allows the input sensitivity of both channels to be
adjusted. Using the push-in/push-out knob it’s a simple matter to adjust the
input circuitry to match average (nominal) signal levels which would typically
be in the range of 0 to +4 dBu. And with a maximum input level of +24 dBu
there will always be sufficient headroom for “pro” audio performance.
Protection components in the input circuitry help ensure reliability in tough
field applications.
Summing (Mixing) of the Input Signals
The two channels associated with line input A and the two channels associated
with line input B are mixed (summed), sent to analog-to-digital conversion
circuitry, and then transmitted over the Dante network. The two signals
associated with the channel 1 (or “left”) inputs are combined and sent out
Dante channel 1. The two signals associated with the channel 2 (or “right”)
inputs are combined and sent out Dante channel 2. (There is no provision for
creating a monaural signal which is typically not an issue as other connected
Dante-enabled equipment can usually perform such tasks.)
Metering
Two 7-step LED meters provide a real-time level indication of the two audio
output channels. Scaled in dBFS (decibels referenced to full scale digital)
the meters offer a direct view of the signal levels as they are transported in
the digital domain via Dante. Optimal audio performance requires transporting
signals at their proper levels — without an accurate indication this can be
difficult to achieve.
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Ethernet Data and PoE
The Model 5204 connects to a data network using a standard 100 Mb/s twisted-
pair Ethernet interface. The physical interconnection is made by way of a
Neutrik® etherCON RJ45 connector. While compatible with standard RJ45 plugs,
etherCON allows a ruggedized and locking interconnection for harsh or high-
reliability environments. An LED displays the status of the network
connection.
The Model 5204’s operating power is provided by way of the Ethernet interface
using the Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) standard. This allows fast and efficient
interconnection with the associated data network. To support PoE power
management, the Model 5204’s PoE interface reports to the power sourcing
equipment (PSE) that it’s a class 3 (mid power) device. An LED is provided to
indicate when power is being supplied to the Model 5204. Note that no
provision has been made to allow an external power source to be connected.
However, if the associated Ethernet switch does not provide PoE capability a
commonly-available mid-span PoE power injector can be utilized.
Dedicated Charging Port (DCP)
A unique resource is the Model 5204’s dedicated charging port. Using a
standard USB type A receptacle, the port has a 5 volt output with a maximum
current of approximately 1 amp. This nominally 5 watt output should be
sufficient to rapidly charge a personal audio player, smartphone, or tablet
device. An auto-detect feature supports divider mode, short mode, and 1.2
V/1.2 V charging modes. Besides charging, the port can allow a connected
device to continuously send audio to the associated Dante network without
requiring an external power source. Note that in this situation, interfacing a
device with the Model 5204 requires separate cables, one for the analog audio
source and one for powering/charging.
One note of interest: the dedicated charging port derives its power from the
Ethernet with Powerover-Ethernet (PoE) connection. While the Model 5204’s
audio and data circuitry takes very little energy, the dedicated charging port
can source up to approximately 5 watts. As such, the Model 5204’s Ethernet
interface will identify itself to upstream powersourcing-equipment (PSE),
typically an Ethernet switch with integrated PoE, as a PoE class 3 powered
device (PD).
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DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
Audio data is sent from the Model 5204 using the Dante Audio-over-Ethernet
media networking technology. As a Dante-compliant device, the Model 5204’s two
audio channels can be assigned to other devices using the Dante Controller
software application. Bit depths of up to 24 and sample rates of 44.1, 48,
88.2, and 96 kHz are supported. Two bi-color LEDs provide an indication of the
Dante connection status.
The Model 5204 uses Audinate’s UltimoXTM integrated circuit for implementing
Dante. The integrated circuit’s firmware can be updated via the Ethernet
connection, helping to ensure that its capabilities remain up to date.
The Model 5204 uses Audinate’s UltimoXTM integrated circuit for implementing
Dante. The integrated circuit’s firmware can be updated via the Ethernet
connection, helping to ensure that its capabilities remain up to date.
Getting Started
Included in the shipping carton are a Model 5204 Interface unit and
instructions on how to obtain an electronic copy of this guide. As a device
that is Powerover-Ethernet (PoE) powered, no external power source is
provided. Should a PoE midspan power injector be required it must be purchased
separately.
Mounting Options
There is no provision for directly mounting one or more Model 5204 units in an
equipment rack. However, the overall height of the unit was carefully selected
so that it could be placed without interference on a single space (1U) rack
shelf. The Model 5204’s enclosure width allows up to four units to be placed
side-by-side on a 1U shelf that’s mounted in a standard 19-inch equipment
rack. Hook-and-loop (“Velcro”) tape can be used to secure the Model 5204 units
to the shelf. A set of mounting brackets is available to allow a Model 5204 to
be attached to the underside of a desk, table, broadcast set, or other flat
surface. Contact Studio Technologies for details.
Connections
In this section, signal interconnections will be made using the connectors
located on the front and back panel of the Model 5204. An Ethernet data
connection with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) capability
Model 5204 User Guide Studio Technologies, Inc.
will be made using either a standard RJ45 patch cable or an etherCON protected
RJ45 plug. Line-level signal sources will be connected using the 3.5 mm jack
associated with line input A and the 3-pin XLR connectors associated with line
input B. The USB dedicated charging port can be connected to power or charge
an external device.
Ethernet Connection
A 100BASE-TX Ethernet connection that supports Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) is
required for Model 5204 operation. This one connection will provide both the
Ethernet data interface and power for the Model 5204’s circuitry. A 10BASE-T
connection is not sufficient and a 1000BASE-T (GigE) connection is not
supported unless it can automatically “fall back” to 100BASE-TX operation. For
PoE switch (PSE) power management the Model 5204 will enumerate itself as a
PoE class 3 device.
The Ethernet connection is made by way of a Neutrik etherCON protected RJ45
connector that is located on the back panel of the Model 5204. This allows
connection by way of a cable-mounted etherCON plug or a standard RJ45 plug.
The Model 5204’s Ethernet interface supports auto MDI/MDI-X so that most
cabling implementations will be correctly supported.
Line Input A
Line input A is intended for connection with a 2channel (stereo) unbalanced
line-level analog audio signal source. This will typically be associated with
consumer and semi-professional devices such as personal audio players, AV
equipment, and tablet and personal computers. These signals will typically
have a nominal level in the range of 15 to 10 dBu. Devices are connected to
line input A by way of a 3.5 mm 3-conductor jack located on the Model 5204’s
front panel. As is standard for 2-channel (stereo) audio signals present on
this type of connector channel 1 (left) is connected to the jack’s tip lead,
channel 2 (right) to the jack’s ring lead, and the common connection to the
jack’s sleeve.
Line Input B
Line input B is intended for connection with two balanced line-level analog
audio signal sources associated with professional audio and video equipment.
These will include devices such as audio consoles, video storage and playback
systems, wireless
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microphone receivers, and audio testing equipment. The audio quality is such
that using line input B for on-air broadcast or streaming applications would
be appropriate. The two channels associated with line input B are analog,
electronically balanced, and capacitor coupled.
The Model 5204 provides two 3-pin female XLR connectors for interfacing
signals with line input B. Pin 2 on a mating connector (3-pin male XLR) should
be connected as signal + (high), pin 3 as signal (low), and pin 1 as
common/shield. With an unbalanced source connect signal + (high) to the pin 2
and signal (low/shield) to both pins 1 and 3.
USB Dedicated Charging Port
A USB type A receptacle is located on the back panel of the Model 5204. It
allows connection to a wide variety of devices that obtain power for operation
and/ or charging via USB. No data is transferred to or from the Model 5204
with this connector, only power is provided. The dedicated charging port (DCP)
is capable of automatically enumerating (“handshaking”) with a number of the
popular device protocols. This allows operation with most mobile phones,
tablet computers, and personal audio devices. Using the appropriate cable,
simply connect the dedicated charging port to the selected device. Up to 5
watts of energy can be delivered on a continuous basis. It’s possible that the
device being powered and/or charged is also serving as the source of analog
audio for line input A. In this case, two interface cables will be used to
link the device with the Model 5204.
Dante Configuration
Several Model 5204’s Dante-related parameters can be configured. These
configuration settings will be stored in nonvolatile memory within the Model
5204’s circuitry. Configuration will typically be done with the Dante
Controller software application which is available for download free of charge
at audinate. com. Versions of Dante Controller are available to support
Windows® and OS X® operating systems. The Model 5204 uses the UltimoX
2-input/2-output integrated circuit to implement the Dante architecture.
However, only the two transmitter (output) channels are utilized. This
dictates which parameters can be configured and what choices are available.
The Model 5204 is compatible with AES67 and the Dante Domain
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ManagerTM (DDM) software application. AES67 operation requires that a setting
within Dante Controller be enabled. For DDM operation please refer to the
specific DDM documentation for details on what Model 5204 and related
parameters may have to be configured.
The two transmitter channels associated with the Model 5204’s Dante interface
must be assigned to the desired receiver channels. Within Dante Controller a
“subscription” is the term used for routing a transmitter flow (a group of
output channels) to a receiver flow (a group of input channels). Note that as
of the writing of this guide the number of transmitter flows associated with
an UltimoX integrated circuit is limited to two.
The Model 5204 will support audio sample rates of 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz
with a limited selection of pull-up/pull-down values. The Model 5204 can serve
as the Leader clock for a Dante network but in most cases it will “sync” to
another device. (Note that when operating in the AES67 mode, the Dante
transmitter (output) channels will function only in multicast; unicast is not
supported.)
The Model 5204 has a default Dante device name of ST-M5204 and a unique
suffix. The suffix identifies the specific Model 5204 that is being configured
(it relates to the MAC address of the UltimoX integrated circuit). The two
Dante transmitter channels have default names of Ch1 and Ch2. Using Dante
Controller the default device and channel names can be revised as appropriate
for the specific application.
The Model 5204 can be configured for AES67 operation. This requires the AES67
Mode to be set for Enabled. By default, AES67 mode is set for Disabled. As
previously mentioned, in the AES67 mode the Dante transmitter (output)
channels will function in multicast; unicast is not supported.
Operation
At this point an Ethernet connection with Powerover-Ethernet (PoE) capability
should have been made. The unit’s Dante configuration settings should have
been selected using Dante Controller software application. At a minimum the
Model 5204’s two Dante transmitter channels should have been routed to
receiver channels on an associated device. Analog signal source connections to
line input A and line input B should have been made as desired. A device
Model 5204 User Guide Studio Technologies, Inc.
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may have been connected to the USB dedicated charging port. Normal operation
of the Model 5204 can now begin.
Initial Operation
The Model 5204 will immediately begin to function as soon as a Power-over-
Ethernet (PoE) power source is connected. At this time the USB dedicated
charging port will become functional. However, full operation may take up to
20 seconds to begin. Upon initial power up the four status LEDs located on the
back panel will begin to light. The meter LEDs on the front panel will light
in a test sequence. After the meter LEDs complete their test sequence one
meter LED associated with channel 1 and one meter LED associated with channel
2 will briefly light to indicate the version number of the unit’s firmware
(embedded software). (Understanding how to “read” the application firmware
number will be discussed in detail later in this guide.) Once that sequence
has completed and the Dante connection has been established full operation
will begin.
Ethernet, PoE, and Dante Status LEDs
Four status LEDs are located below the Ethernet connector on the Model 5204’s
back panel. The PoE LED will light green to indicate that Power-over-Ethernet
(PoE) associated with the connected Ethernet signal is providing operating
power for the Model 5204. The LINK/ACT LED will light green whenever an active
connection to a 100 Mb/s Ethernet network has been established. It will flash
in response to data packet activity. The SYS and SYNC LEDs display the
operating status of the Dante interface and associated network. The SYS LED
will light red upon Model 5204 power up to indicate that the Dante interface
is not ready. After a short interval it will light green to indicate that it
is ready to pass data with another Dante device. The SYNC LED will light red
when the Model 5204 is not synchronized with a Dante network. It will light
solid green when the Model 5204 is synchronized with a Dante network and an
external clock source (timing reference) is being received. It will slowly
flash green when the Model 5204 is part of a Dante network and is serving as a
Leader clock.
Model 5204 User Guide Studio Technologies, Inc.
How to Identify a Specific Model 5204
The Dante Controller software application offers an identify command that can
be used to help locate a specific Model 5204. When identify is selected for a
specific unit its meter LEDs will light in a unique pattern. In addition, the
SYS and SYNC LEDs, located directly below the etherCON connector on the back
panel, will slowly flash green. After a few seconds the LED identification
patterns will cease and normal Model 5204 level meter and Dante status LED
operation will again take place.
Level Meters
Two 7-step LED meters will display the level of the two Dante transmitter
(output) channels. The meter steps are calibrated in dBFS which indicates the
number of dB below the maximum possible digital signal level. The maximum
level, 0 dBFS, is the digital audio reference level equal to “full scale.”
Full scale refers to the maximum level possible for a sine wave before
“digital clipping.” In typical applications a signal level of 20 dBFS would
be the desired nominal (normal average) value. The five meter steps that have
a threshold of 20 dBFS and less light with the color green. The step that
lights at 15 dBFS and greater is yellow in color and indicates a “hot” or
above average signal level. The top step lights red in color when a signal
levels is 5 dBFS or greater, indicating that a potentially “clipped”
(distorted due to excessive level) signal is present.
Input A
The signal connected to the tip (left channel) connection of line input A’s
3.5 mm jack is associated with Dante transmitter (output) channel 1. The ring
(right channel) connection of the 3.5 mm jack is associated with Dante
transmitter channel 2. The push-in/push-out rotary control adjusts the input
level of both channels of line input A. In its fully counterclockwise position
the input signal are essentially off (muted). Adjust the control such that
normal input signals will cause the five green LEDs to light. Peak signals can
cause the yellow LED to light on occasion. But the yellow LED should never be
continuously lit. The red LED should never light, except possibly in the case
of an extreme peak. The red LED lighting on a regular basis indicates that the
signal level is at risk of reaching digital 0 (0 dBFS) which is destructive to
audio quality.
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Input B
The signal connected to line input B’s channel 1 3-pin female XLR connector is
associated with Dante transmitter (output) channel 1. The signal connected to
line input B’s channel 2 XLR connector is associated with Dante transmitter
(output) channel 2. The push-in/ push-out rotary control adjusts the input
level of both channels of line input B. In its fully counterclockwise position
the input signals are essentially off (muted). Adjust the control such that
normal input signals will cause the five green LEDs to light. Peak signals can
cause the yellow LED to light on occasion. But the yellow LED should never be
continuously lit. The red LED should never light, except possibly in the case
of an extreme peak. The red LED lighting on a regular basis indicates that the
signal level is at risk of reaching digital 0 (0 dBFS) which is destructive to
audio quality.
Line Inputs A & B Combine
It’s important to highlight that the Model 5204’s two 2-channel line inputs (A
and B) combine in the analog domain. In effect the Model 5204 is a dual-input
2-channel (stereo) mixer and Dante converter. A signal present on channel 1
(left) of line input A and a signal present on channel 1 of line input B will
combine (mix together or sum) after (“post”) the two level controls. This
combined signal is routed to the analog-to-digital converter circuitry and on
to the Dante transmitter (output) for channel 1. A signal present on channel 2
(right) of line input A and a signal present on channel 2 of line input B will
combine (mix together or sum) after (“post”) the two level controls. This
combined signal is routed to the analog-to-digital converter circuitry and on
to the Dante transmitter (output) for channel 2. But note that no monaural
version of the input signals is created.
USB Dedicated Charging Port
There are no special instructions when using the dedicated charging port.
Simply connect the desired device and the function will typically
automatically start. The only limitations will be with the port’s 5 volt, 1
ampere (5 watt) maximum power supply capability. A connected device that
requires more energy for operation may not enumerate (handshake or negotiate)
successfully. No damage will occur in this case.
There are no LEDs or performance indicators or configuration settings
associated with the dedicated charging port. It’s really just a “plug-in and
go” feature.
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Technical Notes
IP Address Assignment
By default the Model 5204’s Ethernet interface will attempt to obtain an IP
address and associated settings using DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration
Protocol). If a DHCP server is not detected an IP address will be assigned
using the link-local protocol. This protocol is known in the Microsoft® world
as Automatic Private IP Addressing (APIPA). It is also sometimes referred to
as auto-IP (PIPPA). Link-local will assign an IP address in the IPv4 range of
169.254.0.1 to 169.254.255.254. In this way, multiple Dante-enabled devices
can be connected together and automatically function, whether or not a DHCP
server is active on the LAN. Even two Dante-enabled devices that are directly
interconnected using an RJ45 patch cord will correctly acquire IP addresses
and be able to communicate and transport audio.
Using the Dante Controller software application the Model 5204’s IP address
and related network parameters can be set for a fixed (“static”)
configuration. While this is more involved than letting DHCP or link-local “do
their thing,” if fixed addressing is necessary then that capability is
available. In this case, it’s highly recommended that each unit be physically
marked, e.g., directly using a permanent marker or “console tape,” with its
specific IP address. If knowledge of a Model 5204’s IP address has been
misplaced there is no reset button or other method to restore the unit to a
default IP setting.
In the unfortunate event that a device’s IP address is “lost,” the Address
Resolution Protocol (ARP) networking command can be used to “probe” devices on
a network for this information. For example, in Windows OS the arp a command
can be used to display a list of LAN information that includes MAC addresses
and corresponding IP addresses. The simplest means of identifying an unknown
IP address is to create a “mini” LAN with a personal computer connected
directly to the Model 5204. Then by using the appropriate ARP command the
required “clues” can be obtained.
For best Dante audio-over-Ethernet performance a network that supports VoIP
QoS capability is recommended. This can typically be implemented on virtually
all contemporary managed Ethernet switches. There are even specialized
switches that are
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optimized for entertainment-associated applications. Refer to the Audinate
website (audinate.com) for details on optimizing networks for Dante
applications.
Updating Main Application
Firmware
The Model 5204 uses a Freescale HCS-08-series microcontroller (MCU) integrated
circuit to run its main application firmware (embedded software). The firmware
is loaded into and stored in the MCU’s nonvolatile memory by way of a stand-
alone hardware programmer unit that interfaces with a header connector located
on the unit’s motherboard. This firmware programming is done at the factory at
the time of manufacture using a Cyclone Pro or Cyclone Universal stand-alone
programmer unit from P&E Micro (pemicro.com). There is no provision for
updates of the application firmware to easily be performed in the field.
Unlike some of the other Studio Technologies’ Dante-enabled products, the
Model 5204 does not have a USB interface for firmware updating. This is
because of the Model 5204’s simple, well-defined functionality and
commensurate limitedresource MCU.
It’s possible that updated versions of the Model 5204’s application firmware
will be released. This could be due to software bug fixes or feature
improvements. It’s expected that in most cases Model 5204 units will be
returned to the factory should this firmware need to be loaded. This would be
true unless a user, reseller, or distributor has access to an appropriate
standalone programmer unit. For reference the Studio Technologies’ website
will make available the latest version of the Model 5204’s application
firmware file along with a text description file. Contact the factory for
additional details.
UltimoX Firmware Update
As previously discussed, the Model 5204 implements Dante connectivity using
the 2-input/2-output UltimoX integrated circuit from Audinate. The Dante
Controller software application can be used to determine the version of the
firmware (embedded software) residing in the UltimoX “chip.” This firmware can
be updated by way of the Model 5204’s Ethernet connection. The latest Dante
firmware file is available on the Studio Technologies’ website. The Dante
Firmware Update Manager application is used to install the firmware.
This program is also available for download on the Studio Technologies’
website.
Identifying the Firmware Version
Number
As previously discussed, upon power up the meter LEDs are used to briefly
display the version number of the Model 5204’s firmware (embedded software).
This information is typically only necessary when working with the factory on
support issues. The meter LEDs will first go through a display sequence
followed by an approximately 1-second period where the version number will be
indicated. The top row of seven LEDs will display the major version number
with a range of 1 to 7. The bottom row of seven LEDs will display the minor
version number with a range of 1 to 7. Refer to Figure 2 for details.
Identifying the Firmware Version
Number
As previously discussed, upon power up the meter LEDs are used to briefly
display the version number of the Model 5202’s firmware (embedded software).
This information is typically only necessary when working with the factory on
support issues. The meter LEDs will first go through a display sequence
followed by an approximately 1-second period where the version number will be
indicated. The top row of seven LEDs will display the major version number
with a range of 1 to 7. The bottom row of seven LEDs will display the minor
version number with a range of 1 to 7. Refer to Figure 2 for details.
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Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Major Version Number 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 l O O O O O O O O l O O O O .1 .2 .3 .4 .5
.6 .7
Minor Version Number
Figure 2. Detail of front panel showing the LEDs that display the firmware
version. In this example, the version shown is 1.3.
Issue 3, December 2023 Page 12
Model 5204 User Guide Studio Technologies, Inc.
Model 5204
DUAL LINE INPUT TO DANTE INTERFACE
Specifications
Network Audio Technology: Type: Dante Audio-over-Ethernet AES67-2018 Support:
yes, selectable on/off Dante Domain Manager (DDM) Support: yes Bit Depth: up
to 24 Sample Rates: 44.1, 48, 88.2, and 96 kHz Number of Transmitter (Output)
Channels: 2 Dante Audio Flows: 2 transmitter Analog to Digital Equivalence: a
+4 dBu input with 0 dB gain selected results in a Dante digital output level
of 20 dBFS
Network Interface: Type: twisted-pair Ethernet with Power-over-Ethernet (PoE)
Data Rate: 100 Mb/s (10 Mb/s Ethernet not supported)
Power: Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) per IEEE 802.3af class 3 (mid power, 12.95
watts)
General Audio Parameters: Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±0.5 dB, line
input B to Dante Distortion (THD+N): 0.01%, measured at 1 kHz, +4 dBu, line
input B to Dante Dynamic Range: >100 dB, A-weighted, line input B to Dante
Line Input A: Type: 2-channel (“stereo”) unbalanced, capacitorcoupled Input
Impedance: 10 k ohms Nominal Level: adjustable using rotary level control, 3
dBu @ 100% rotation Maximum Level: +10 dBu
Line Input B: Type: 2-channel (“stereo”) electronically balanced, capacitor-
coupled Input Impedance: 20 k ohms Nominal Level: adjustable using rotary
level control, +11 dBu @ 100% rotation Maximum Level: +24 dBu
Meters: 2 Function: displays level of Dante output signals Type: 7-segment
LED, modified VU ballistics
Dedicated Charging Port: Function: powering and charging of connected devices;
no data interface Output (Nominal): 5 volts DC, 1 amp (5 watts) Compatibility:
auto-detect supports divider mode, short mode, and 1.2 V/1.2 V charging modes
Connectors: Ethernet: Neutrik etherCON RJ45 Line Input A: 3-conductor
(“stereo”) 3.5 mm jack Line Input B: 2, 3-pin female XLR Dedicated Charging
Port: USB type A receptacle
Dimensions (Overall): 4.2 inches wide (10.7 cm) 1.7 inches high (4.3 cm) 5.1
inches deep (13.0 cm) Mounting Option: MBK-02 Mounting Bracket Kit
Weight: 0.8 pounds (0.35 kg)
Specifications and information contained in this User Guide subject to change
without notice.
Model 5204 User Guide Studio Technologies, Inc.
Issue 3, December 2023 Page 13
References
- Audinate - Pioneering the future of AV
- PEmicro - 40+ years innovating in the embedded systems space. Flash Programmers, Cloud-based, Automated, Gang Programmers, and more...
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