Introduction - Radial Engineering Catapult Series User Manual

True to the Music
®

INTroDuCTIoN

In its simplest form, the Catapult is a modular system that lets you drive
four analog audio channels over a single Cat 5 shielded cable. (Note the
cable must be shielded in order for phantom power to pass.) Where the
Catapult differs from other sub-snakes is that each end features a heavy
duty steel box (the input or output modules) which can be ordered with
or without transformers. Transformers benefit by allowing you to split or
isolate the signal to eliminate hum and buzz caused by ground loops.
Module inputs and outputs employ common 3-pin XLRs that are wired
to the AES standard with pin-1 ground, pin-2 (+) and pin-3 (-). For added
connectivity, the modules are equipped with two sets of XLRs that enable
greater routing options. This enables a transformer-equipped module
to be used as a stand-alone isolator. A choice of transformers enables
the Catapult to be used for either mic level (-30dB) or line level (+4dB)
applications.
TX4 - Transmitter
RX4 - Receiver
lifting the ground
Each catapult module is equipped with a ground
lift switch. Set this in the 'out' position. Once
connected, if you hear noise, try lifting the ground
at one end or the other. It is usually best to lift the
ground at the transmit end as it will generally be
connected to a microphone whereas the receive
end will be connected to an electronic device
such as a mixer that is properly grounded to the
GND Lift
electrical system for safety. However, lifting the
ground will disconnect phantom power, which
means that condenser mics or active DI boxes
will not work.
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Radial Engineering Ltd. Catapult™ Audio Snake