Ipal Firmware Upgrade; Ipal Vs Mlx Firmware; Parts Required - Martin Audio MLA User Manual

MLA System

iPal Firmware upgrade

As with all products in the MLA series, the iPal module is subject to continuous development and improvement and so there may
be occasions when an iPal firmware upgrade is necessary.

IPAL vs MLX firmware

It is important to differentiate between the two systems found within the MLX. What is referred to as "MLX firmware"refers to
the U-Net network interface and DSP which is controlled via Vu-Net. This DSP controls all EQ, phase, delay, muting and level
adjustments available to the user. MSX operating firmware is updated via Vu-Net. Please see the Vu-Net chapter in this User
Guide for details on how to check and update MSX Firmware. iPal firmware is the system controlling the internal iPal module.
This is completely self-contained, there is no adjustment whatsoever available to the user. Firmware updates are done via a
connection directly to the module via a dedicated RS485 port on an RJ45 connector beneath the upper grill on the rear of the
MLX.

Parts Required

All necessary software is supplied in a zip file which is e-mailed to all MLA users whenever an upgrade is released. Some hardware
is also required to connect a PC to the module.
As mentioned, the iPal port is RS485 so you will need an RS485 adaptor to connect between your PC and the module. There are
a large number of these available from computer spares stockist however Martin Audio recommend the EasySync ES-U-3001-M
available on line directly from EasySync;-
This versatile USB adaptor can be configured to connect to RS232, RS422 as well as RS485, it is housed in a rugged metal case so
will withstand the rigours of the touring industry, and it has its output available on both a 9-pin 'D'-type connector and a six way
terminal block which makes it very easy to connect custom cables which is necessary to connect to the iPal module.
You will need to make a suitable adaptor cable to connect to the module. The RJ45 connection is unique to the iPal module, the
pin out is as follows;-
This is easily achieved by using a standard CAT5 patch cable, cutting off one end, stripping back the connectors and wiring into
the terminal block on the EasySync adaptor is used. This is very much quicker and easier than having to make up a custom RJ45
to 9-pin D-type cable. The cable connections for RS485on the EasySync are as follows;-
Pin 1 485- (A)
Pin 2 485+(B)
Pin 5 +5V
Pin 6 GND
If the Cat 5 cable is standard wiring configuration the connection to the EasySync will be as follows;-
Pin 1 485-
MLA System User Guide V2.1
USER GUIDE
http://www.easysync-ltd.com/product/542/es-u-3001-m-.html
Green + Green/White
51